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If you are traveling on a tight budget traveling in the off-season saves a lot of money on hotels and transportation, but there are other pluses too, such as fewer lines at museums, activities and restaurants. The off-season is the summer and fall hurricane season – mid April to mid December, which means that hotel offer discounted and special rates.

Use public transportation as much as possible it cost less and can also be ‘green’ helping the local community keep open streets and clean air. It also allows you to get to know the flavors and fine distinction of the local people. The conscious traveler should picnic instead of eating every meal in restaurants, visit markets, bakeries, local shops and delis. Also shopping at local markets is not only a less expensive way to eat, it can be healthier.

Eat your biggest meal at lunch and eat lighter at dinner. Lunch prices at restaurants are amazingly low compared to dinner prices and offer a major savings opportunity. Try the inexpensive beers like Carib and Red Stripe or pick up a bottle of local rum and mix your own drinks for a fraction of the price that you will pay at a bar. If you are planning on an extended stay consider lodging that includes kitchen.

Ask your hotel concierge about insider tips: free days at museums, matinees, free parking, dining specials and happy hours. Wednesday nights at most clubs and the movies are Ladies Night, which means entrance fees, are lower than usual.
Local city guides, nightlife magazines and even newspapers also can be a valuable resource for bargain hunting.

Stay at all-inclusive resorts where you pay one-price that include all your food and drink. Most full-service hotels in St Maarten have an in-room refrigerator for storing your dinner leftovers for lunch.