Time
St. Maarten is on Atlantic Ocean Standard Time year-around. During the fall and winter, midday in New York equals 1 p.m. on the island. During daylight-saving time in the U.S., the hour is the same on the Eastern seaside as it's on the island.
Radio and Television
Just about all hotels on both sides of the island have radio and television airs in English - there's cable TV with over 70 channels - all major US networks and some European channels are available. Most hotels have their own video entertainment and direct television systems.
Satellite television reception is also available for private homes. Including DirecTV, DISH Networks.
Newspapers
Besides several local newspapers, visitors could pick up one or more of the publications aimed toward them. These include St. Maarten Nature Magazine, St. Maarten Events, Discover St. Maarten, St. Maarten Nights, Ti Gourmet and Vacation St. Maarten.
Electricity
Almost all hotels in St. Maarten are electrified as in the U.S.: 110 volts, 60 cycles. On the French side, all works on 220 volts, 60 cycles so a converter and adapter plugs are required for travel appliances.
Telephone
When dialing the Dutch side from the U.S., dial the international access code (which is 011 for the USA), the country code 599 and the local number. Special codes are needed from one side to the other, although only a local number is required when calling the same side.
Pet Regulations
Animals are admitted temporarily to the island with the following papers: a health certificate dated no more than 10 days before visit and a record of inoculations, including a rabies shot administered no more than 30 days prior to the visit.
Marriage
A 127-year-old residency law has been changed permitting non-residents to wed on St. Maarten.
Medical Facilities
St. Maarten Medical Center in Cay Hill and L'hospital General de Gaulle
St. Martin in Marigot offer medical services. Airlift is available to Puerto Rico and the continental U.S. in case of utmost medical emergency.