Sint Peters: The Hidden Gem of Sint Maarten

• HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
• GoodbyeAjo
  [ah-yo]
• YesSi
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fah-bohr]
• Thank youDanki
  [dahn-kee]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dees-pehn-sah]
• How are you?Kon ta bai?
  [kohn tah bahy]
• Fine. And you?Bon. I boso?
  [bohn ee boh-soh]
• Do you speak English?Bo ta papia Ingles?
  [boh tah pah-pee-ah een-glehs]
• I don't understandMi no ta kompronde
  [mee noh tah kohm-prohn-deh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi kier wak e menu, por fabor
  [mee keer wak eh meh-noo pohr fah-bohr]
• I don't eat meatMi no kome karni
  [mee noh koh-meh kahr-nee]
• Cheers!Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi kier paga, por fabor
  [mee keer pah-gah pohr fah-bohr]

• Help!Yudami!
  [yoo-dah-mee]
• Go away!Bai bai!
  [bahy bahy]
• Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [yah-mah poh-lis]
• Call a doctor!Yama un dokter!
  [yah-mah oon dohk-tehr]
• I'm lostMi a perde mi mes
  [mee ah pehr-deh mee mehs]
• I'm illMi ta malu
  [mee tah mah-loo]

• I'd like to buy...Mi kier kumpra...
  [mee keer koom-prah]
• I'm just lookingMi ta mira solamente
  [mee tah mee-rah soh-lah-men-teh]
• How much is it?Kuantu esaki ta kosta?
  [kwan-too eh-sah-kee tah kohs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsaki ta muchu karu
  [eh-sah-kee tah moo-choo kah-roo]
• Can you lower the price?Bo por baha e preis?
  [boh pohr bah-hah eh preys]

• What time is it?Ki ora e ta?
  [kee oh-rah eh tah]
• It's one o'clockE ta un ora
  [eh tah oon oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Diez y mitar
  [dee-ehs ee mee-tahr]
• MorningMarduga
  [mahr-doo-gah]
• AfternoonAtardi
  [ah-tahr-dee]
• EveningAnochi
  [ah-noh-chee]
• YesterdayAyera
  [ah-yeh-rah]
• TodayAwe
  [ah-weh]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [seys]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dee-ehs]

• Where's a/the...?Unda tin un/e...
  [oon-dah teen oon/eh]
• What's the address?Kua ta e adres?
  [kwah tah eh ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bo por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [boh pohr moos-trah mee ree-bah eh mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kiko ora e siguiente (bus)?
  [kee-koh oh-rah eh see-gwee-ehn-teh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biahe (pa ....)
  [oon byah-heh pah]

Long before European settlers arrived, Sint Peters was inhabited by the Arawak and Carib people. These indigenous communities thrived on the island, cultivating crops, fishing, and engaging in trade with neighboring islands. Archaeological findings, such as pottery and tools, provide evidence of their long-standing presence in the region.

The arrival of European settlers in the early 17th century marked a significant turning point in the history of Sint Peters. The Dutch and French vied for control over the island, resulting in the Treaty of Concordia in 1648, which divided the island between the two nations. Sint Peters, located on the Dutch side, began to develop as a small agricultural community.

In the 18th century, the fertile lands of Sint Peters became home to several plantations. These plantations primarily focused on producing sugarcane and tobacco, which were significant exports at the time. The labor force consisted largely of enslaved Africans, whose contributions were instrumental in the economic growth of the region.

The abolition of slavery in 1863 was a pivotal moment in the history of Sint Peters. Freed slaves transitioned from plantation labor to establishing their own communities and livelihoods. This period saw the emergence of a distinct Afro-Caribbean culture, characterized by unique traditions, music, and cuisine.

The 20th century brought significant changes to Sint Peters as the island shifted from an agriculture-based economy to tourism. The development of infrastructure, such as roads and housing, transformed the area into a vibrant residential community. Today, Sint Peters is known for its picturesque landscapes, cultural diversity, and welcoming atmosphere.

Sint Peters is rich in cultural heritage, with festivals and events that celebrate its diverse history. The annual Carnival, held in the spring, is a highlight, featuring colorful parades, music, and dance. Other cultural events, such as Emancipation Day and St. Maarten's Day, offer insights into the island's history and traditions.

Sint Peters is located in the central part of Sint Maarten. The closest airport is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which is approximately a 20-minute drive from Sint Peters. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Sint Peters. There are also public buses and shuttle services available that connect the airport to various parts of the island, including Sint Peters.

Transportation within Sint Peters and the broader Sint Maarten area is convenient. Taxis are readily available and are a popular choice for tourists. Car rentals are also a great option if you prefer to explore at your own pace. Public buses operate throughout the island, offering an affordable way to travel between different areas. Biking is another viable option for getting around Sint Peters, thanks to its relatively flat terrain.

The official currency in Sint Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Sint Peters. ATMs are available throughout the area, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. Currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in major towns.

Sint Peters is generally a safe area for tourists, but it's always important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the crime rate is relatively low, incidents targeting tourists can occur, particularly in more isolated areas. Always stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is the St. Maarten Medical Center, located about 15 minutes away from Sint Peters. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many offer over-the-counter medications. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress casually but respectfully. Beachwear is acceptable on the beach but not in town or restaurants. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good day' or 'Bon dia.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sint Peters like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Interact with the residents, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't miss out on local events and festivals, which offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Sint Maarten. Additionally, exploring the nearby natural trails and parks can provide a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.