Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

From passports and packing to plus-ones and pickup — the answers we hear most often.

Do I need a passport?

Yes — a valid passport is required to enter St. Martin. Please make sure yours is valid through at least October 22, 2027 (six months past our travel dates). If you need to renew, give yourself 8–10 weeks of buffer.

When should I arrive and when should I leave?

We’d love for you to be on the island by Thursday afternoon, April 22, so you can join us at the Welcome Party that evening (5:30–10:30 PM). The wedding events run through Saturday’s Beach BBQ, so we recommend flying out no earlier than Sunday morning, April 25.

If you’re up for making it a longer getaway, St. Martin is a great launchpad for island-hopping. Anguilla is a 20-minute ferry, St. Barts is a short flight or ferry, and Saba is just 12 minutes by plane — all beautiful add-ons to your trip.

Guests flying into SXM on Thursday will be provided with group transportation to Anse Marcel — just submit your flight info on the RSVP form by February 1, 2027.

What's the dress code?

Thursday’s Welcome Party is a white party — bring your best whites. We’ll be celebrating on both the beach club patio and the beach, so ladies please choose footwear that’s comfortable on sand — sandals, wedges, and block heels are perfect.

For Friday’s wedding, we’re going Caribbean Chic — think elevated, effortless, and vacation-ready. Ladies: flowing maxi or midi dresses in bright colors, tropical prints, or soft neutrals, paired with block heels, wedges, or dressy sandals (please avoid stilettos — portions of the evening are on the beach). Gentlemen: linen or lightweight suits, sport coats, or dress shirts with slacks — lean into lighter colors and relaxed tailoring. Ties are optional.

Saturday’s Boat Day and Beach BBQ are casual beach — swimsuits, cover-ups, sandals you don’t mind getting sandy.

What will the weather be like?

Late April in St. Martin is just about perfect: highs around 83°F (28°C), lows in the mid-70s, low humidity, and a steady trade-wind breeze. Pack for warm days, slightly cooler evenings, and the very rare quick-passing shower.

Can I bring a plus-one?

Plus-ones are noted by name on your formal invitation. When you RSVP, please only include guests listed on your invitation.

Are kids welcome?

This is an adults-only celebration. We adore your littles, but we’ve designed this weekend as a chance for parents to fully relax and enjoy themselves. Please consider it your well-earned free pass for a romantic getaway.

Is the ceremony unplugged?

Yes — we’re hosting an unplugged ceremony. We’d love for you to be fully present with us as we say our vows, so we kindly ask that phones and cameras stay tucked away during the ceremony itself. Our photographer will capture every moment, and we promise to share the best shots with everyone afterward. Once we’ve walked back down the aisle as Mr. & Mrs., snap away to your heart’s content.

What currency should I bring?

The French side prefers Euros and the Dutch side prefers U.S. dollars, but in practice both are accepted across the island. Cards work most places — bring some cash for the lolos, beach bars, and markets.

What credit cards does the resort accept?

Anse Marcel Beach Resort accepts Visa and Mastercard, but it does not accept American Express. Plan to bring a Visa or Mastercard for your room charges and incidentals. Most restaurants and shops around the island accept all major cards, but it’s worth carrying some cash for the lolos and smaller spots.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

St. Martin’s tap water is desalinated and technically potable, but most locals and visitors stick to bottled water for taste. Bottled water is widely available at the resort and at every restaurant. Brushing your teeth with tap water is perfectly fine.

Will there be transportation between events?

Most events are at Anse Marcel Beach Resort, so guests staying on-property can walk. If you choose not to stay at the resort, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to events.

How do we get to the boat on Saturday?

We’ll all meet at the resort’s check-in area / front desk and walk over to the marina together — it’s just a short 3-minute walk. Look for us there before boarding time on Saturday.

How do I get from SXM to Anse Marcel?

If you're flying in on Thursday, April 22nd, we're providing group transportation — just submit your flight info on the RSVP form by February 1, 2027. Otherwise, taxis are readily available at the airport (around $35–45 USD), and rental cars can be picked up at SXM or at Anse Marcel.

What if I’m not flying in on Thursday?

No problem — getting to Anse Marcel from SXM is straightforward any day of the week. Taxis are readily available right outside the terminal (around $35–45 USD), and the drive is roughly 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. You can also pick up a rental car at SXM or on-property at Anse Marcel — handy if you’d like wheels for the weekend. If you’d prefer something pre-arranged, the resort can help coordinate a private transfer; reach out to them after you book with your guest code.

Will my hair tools work at the resort?

Heads up — the French side of St. Martin runs on 220V European-style outlets (Type C/E, two round pins), while most American hair tools are designed for 120V. A plug adapter alone won’t cut it — you’ll fry the tool (we learned the hard way with a Dyson on a previous trip).

The safest path is a dual-voltage tool marked ‘100–240V’ on the device — travel-friendly models from Laifen, BaBylissPRO, T3, and Conair work in both regions. You’ll still need a Type C/E plug adapter to fit the outlet.

If your tool is single-voltage only, you’ll need a heavy-duty voltage converter (rated 1875W or higher for hair dryers), not just a plug adapter. Or simplest of all — every room at the resort has a hair dryer.

Can I use my U.S. cell phone?

Most major U.S. carriers offer international day passes (Verizon TravelPass, AT&T International Day Pass, T-Mobile international roaming). Check with your provider before you fly.

Is there WiFi at the resort?

Yes — Anse Marcel Beach Resort offers complimentary WiFi throughout the property, including guest rooms, common areas, and along the beach. It’s solid enough for streaming, video calls, and posting beach selfies in real time.

Where do I send my gift?

If you'd like to send a gift before the wedding, please ship it directly to our home address — we'll share that on a card with your invitation. We kindly ask that you don't bring physical gifts to St. Martin; cards are always welcome.

Who do I contact with questions?

Reach out to us anytime at SmithEliasWedding@gmail.com (or just text us — you know how to find us).