Current Time in SaintMartin
The culture of time in Saint Martin
The culture of time in Saint Martin
"Caribbean time" spreads throughout the island
Saint Martin has a "culture of not rushing," and it is common for things to start later than scheduled. It is not uncommon for meetings and events to start more than 30 minutes late.
Differences in sensibilities between the French and Dutch territories
The island is divided into French and Dutch territories, with the French side being somewhat more relaxed and the Dutch side being relatively more conscious of time. However, both are influenced by Latin and Caribbean culture and are not strict about time.
Life in harmony with nature
The lifestyle of starting activities with sunrise and slowly ending the day as the sun sets is still widely seen. In particular, in rural areas, the position of the sun may be the basis for behavior rather than the clock.
Values of time in Saint Martin
How time is spent with an emphasis on human relationships
When you are talking to someone, the conversation takes top priority, and the next appointment may be delayed. The culture values "human relationships at this moment" over time.
Avoiding stress takes priority
Maintaining a relaxed environment is more important than being in a rush for time. The natural flow is more important than the pressure to "be on time".
A culture that does not approve of overwork
There are values that prioritize time spent with family and friends and leisure time for oneself over being unnecessarily busy. A balanced life is considered ideal.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Saint Martin
It is safe to think of appointment times as a "guideline"
Restaurant reservations, local tours, daily gatherings, etc. are likely to be delayed. A delay of 5 to 15 minutes is considered normal, so act on the assumption that things will not be on time.
Public institutions are slow to respond
Government offices and post offices are also a little more relaxed than in Japan. The trick to avoid stress is to visit with plenty of time.
Tourist and airport hours are relatively strict
Tourist boats, airplanes, international ferries and other means of transportation are expected to operate on time. Be careful as punctuality is required in official situations.
Interesting trivia about time in Saint Martin
There is no time difference on the island, but there are cultural "time zone" differences
The French and Dutch territories use the same time, but there are differences in the speed of service and people's sense of time, and some locals joke that there seems to be a time difference.
Daylight saving time is not adopted
Standard time (AST: UTC-4) is used throughout the year, and there is no need to set the clock forward or backward. There is little seasonal variation in time, and a stable rhythm of life is maintained.
Many people move to the island because they are attracted by the island's unique "looseness"
Many immigrants from Europe and North America are attracted to this culture that is not bound by time, and so they begin life on the island. The phrase "Here, read the wind rather than the clock" is sometimes used symbolically.