The Enchanting Lowlands of Sint Maarten

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeAyo
  [a-yo]
• YesSi
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fa-bor]
• Thank youDanki
  [dan-ki]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [so-ri]
• How are you?Kon ta bai?
  [kon ta ba-i]
• Fine. And you?Bon. I bo?
  [bon. ee bo]
• Do you speak English?Bo ta papia Ingles?
  [bo ta pa-pi-a in-gles]
• I don't understandMi no ta comprende
  [mi no ta com-pren-de]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi kier mira e menu, por fabor
  [mi ki-er mi-ra e me-nu, por fa-bor]
• I don't eat meatMi no kome karni
  [mi no ko-me kar-ni]
• Cheers!Salud!
  [sa-lud]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi kier paga, por fabor
  [mi ki-er pa-ga, por fa-bor]

• Help!Yuda!
  [yu-da]
• Go away!Bai for!
  [bai for]
• Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [ya-ma po-lis]
• Call a doctor!Yama dokter!
  [ya-ma dok-ter]
• I'm lostMi ta perdi
  [mi ta per-di]
• I'm illMi ta malu
  [mi ta ma-lu]

• I'd like to buy...Mi kier kumpra...
  [mi ki-er kum-pra...]
• I'm just lookingMi ta so mira
  [mi ta so mi-ra]
• How much is it?Kuantu esaki ta kosta?
  [kwan-tu e-sa-ki ta kos-ta]
• That's too expensiveEsaki ta muchu karo
  [e-sa-ki ta mu-chu ka-ro]
• Can you lower the price?Bo por baha e preis?
  [bo por ba-ha e preis]

• What time is it?Kuantu ora ta?
  [kwan-tu o-ra ta]
• It's one o'clockTa un ora
  [ta un o-ra]
• Half past (10)Mitad di dies
  [mi-tad di dies]
• MorningMarduga
  [mar-du-ga]
• AfternoonTardi
  [tar-di]
• EveningAnochi
  [a-no-shi]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ai-yer]
• TodayAwe
  [a-we]
• TomorrowMañana
  [ma-nya-na]
• 1Uno
  [oo-no]
• 2Dos
  [dos]
• 3Tres
  [tres]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwa-tro]
• 5Cinco
  [sin-ko]
• 6Seis
  [sais]
• 7Siete
  [syet]
• 8Ocho
  [o-cho]
• 9Nueve
  [nwe-ve]
• 10Diez
  [dyes]

• Where's a/the...?Unda tin un/e...
  [un-da tin un/e]
• What's the address?Kua ta e adres?
  [kwa ta e a-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bo por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [bo por mus-tra mi (ri-ba e ma-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki ora ta bini e siguiente (bus)?
  [ki o-ra ta bi-ni e si-guien-te (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biahe (pa ....)
  [un bya-he (pa)]

The earliest known inhabitants of the Lowlands in Sint Maarten were the Arawak and Carib indigenous peoples. These groups lived off the island's natural resources, engaging in fishing, agriculture, and trade with neighboring islands. Evidence of their presence can still be found in the form of ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites scattered throughout the Lowlands.

In the early 17th century, European powers, notably the Dutch and French, began to take an interest in Sint Maarten due to its strategic location and fertile lands. The Treaty of Concordia, signed in 1648, divided the island between the Dutch and French, with the Lowlands falling under Dutch control. This period marked the beginning of European settlement and the establishment of plantations in the area.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Lowlands became a hub for sugarcane plantations. Enslaved Africans were brought to the island to work on these plantations, profoundly shaping the region's demographic and cultural landscape. The ruins of some of these plantations can still be visited today, offering a glimpse into this turbulent period of history.

The abolition of slavery in 1863 brought significant changes to the Lowlands. Freed individuals established their own communities and began to diversify the local economy. Agriculture remained important, but fishing and salt production also became prominent industries. The cultural heritage of the descendants of these freed individuals continues to influence the Lowlands today.

The latter half of the 20th century saw a major shift in the Lowlands as tourism began to develop. The construction of luxury resorts, villas, and golf courses transformed the region into a premier destination for visitors. This development brought economic growth and modern infrastructure, but also posed challenges to preserving the area's natural and historical sites.

The Lowlands is home to a vibrant blend of cultures, which is celebrated through various festivals and traditions. Events such as the annual Carnival and Heineken Regatta showcase the island's rich heritage, featuring music, dance, and cuisine that reflect its diverse population. These festivals are a testament to the enduring cultural vibrancy of the Lowlands.

Lowlands in Sint Maarten is easily accessible via Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), located just a short drive away. Direct flights are available from major US cities, Canada, and Europe. Alternatively, you can arrive by ferry from neighboring islands such as Anguilla or St. Barths. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport for your convenience.

Transportation in Lowlands is straightforward. Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed from most locations or booked in advance. Car rentals are a popular option for those wanting to explore at their own pace. Public buses are available but less frequent. For a unique experience, consider renting a bicycle or scooter to navigate the area.

The official currency in Sint Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but US dollars are widely accepted. Major credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout Lowlands, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips.

Lowlands is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Areas like Philipsburg and Simpson Bay can have higher instances of petty crime, so stay vigilant. Always use reputable taxi services and avoid walking alone after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Princess Juliana International Airport has a medical clinic, and there are several hospitals and clinics in Philipsburg. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing due to the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing attire when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious settings. Public Transport: Do be courteous and patient when using public buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good day'. A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be open to new flavors. Don’t leave large tips as it is not customary; a small gratuity is usually sufficient.

To experience Lowlands like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals who are often willing to share insights about the area. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful beaches and enjoy water activities like snorkeling and jet skiing. For a unique dining experience, try the local 'lolos' (food shacks) offering authentic Caribbean dishes.