Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Sint Maarten: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
I landed at Princess Juliana and checked both rates - ATM beat the airport every time, including after the $3 fee. Just avoid those tiny tourist ATMs near the arrivals area, they charge more. I always went for the main bank machines in town and was happy with what I got.
If you’re debating, always go ATM here in Sint Maarten. The exchange counter at the airport was a bit of a rip-off, with a big spread. Bank ATMs had transparent fees and gave me closer to the market rate, especially if you have a travel card like Wise or Revolut.
I used a Windward Islands Bank ATM downtown and did the math against the airport kiosk - ATM was the clear winner for me. The airport exchange is only worth it for really small amounts. ATM withdrawal limits were decent too, so you can pull enough to last a while.
Just got to Sint Maarten and compared the airport exchange with Caribbean Mercantile Bank ATMs in Philipsburg. The ATM rate worked out better, even after the small fee. The airport desk gave a noticeably worse rate, so I’d definitely recommend the ATM if you want more bang for your buck.