There aren't many tourist traps on St. Maarten / St. Martin. The island has a relatively affluent local population with consumption habits much like its visitors' — locals go out for dinner, shop, and party, and their buying power keeps prices in check year-round.
Beer as a price gauge
Liquor is cheap and profitable, so it's a great honesty meter. A beer in a bar shouldn't cost more than about $4 — most places charge $2. As it approaches $5, look for other signs you've wandered into a trap.
What to actually watch for
- Fake review profiles — some restaurants flattened by Hurricane Irma still had glowing reviews a year later.
- Cruise-ship excursions — the real markups come from cruise lines charging local operators up to 50% commission; a $70 bus-and-lunch trip is poor value when a rental car costs less.
- Officially 'recommended' cruise retailers pay large fees that get baked into their prices.
Resort and villa guests are at low risk; renting a car and touring at your own pace is almost always the better deal.
Ready to explore the island?
Reserve a clean, late-model car with VIP airport meet & greet.
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