St. Maarten is the smallest Island in the world to be shared by two sovereign governments-namely the Dutch and French. The Dutch side, with Philipsburg (named after the first governor of Dutch St. Maarten, John Philips) as its capital occupies the southern 16 square miles of this 37-square-mile island; St. Martin, a French dependency, occupies the northern half. The dual nationality adds variety to this most unique of island gems in the Caribbean Sea. Both Dutch St. Maarten and French St. Martin have maintained a peaceful coexistence for over 350 years, the longest of any two bordering nations. The two territories have enjoyed harmonious relations through their history and have shared the prosperity of many years without dispute. The Treaty of Concordia executed on March 23rd 1648 established this coexistence and has the unique distinction of being the oldest Treaty still in force today.

As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Dutch St. Maarten has been both politically and economically stable. The territory is not only a safe and pleasant place to do business, but also to establish roots and raise a family. The total population has grown from 13,156 in 1980 to nearly 39,000 in year 2000. It is estimated that the population of St. Maarten consists of 77 different nationalities. The native languages are English and Dutch.

The Arawaks were not alone, however. They were followed in the 14th century by a much more war-like tribe - the cannibalistic Carib Indians. These new arrivals are the ones who gave the region its name, and knew St. Maarten as Soualiga, or "Salt Island" after its main mineral deposit. The remains of the Great Salt Pond can still be seen in Philipsburg today.

According to legend, Christopher Columbus sighted Soualiga on the 11th of November in the year 1493, the holy day of St. Martin of Tours, and he named the island after him - hence the name St. Maarten. The 11th of November is celebrated to this day, as St. Martin/St. Maarten's Day.

Although Columbus sighted and named the island, the Spanish made no initial attempt to settle here. Around the year 1630 the Dutch and French established small settlements on the island. The Spanish must have not taken to well to this settlement - they saw it as a threat to their influence in the region and attacked the island - driving out both the Dutch and French settlements.

The Dutch and French joined forces to repel the Spanish, and finally achieved this goal around 1644 when the Spanish finally abandoned their claims to the Eastern Caribbean altogether. After driving out the Spanish, the Dutch and French signed an accord (in 1648) and agreed to divide the island. Over the next few years, the boundary was the subject of numerous disputes. which were not settled until 1817. In this timeframe the island changed hands between the two powers 16 times.

Dollar Rent A Car St. Maarten / Saint Martin is committed to you the customer for a great value, secure and reliable rentals at value rates. Dollar St. Maarten has also a commitment to you to provide added value to your vacation experience on or dual island nation (Dutch and French) located at 175 miles due east of Puerto Rico in the outer ring of the North Eastern Caribbean.

St. Maarten / Saint Martin, a popular vacation destination due to its Duty Free Shopping, 37 marvelous beaches, a splendid gastronomy and a sparkling nightlife deserves exploration to the fullest extent. Thrifty provides you the means of economic to extravagant transportation.

In an effort to help you enjoy your vacation to the fullest, we have compiled a large selection of cars. You will find a variety of cars, vans, jeeps etc. at the best prices, reliable service, and the convenience of an Office at the Airport.

Dollar Rent A Car features a new Fleet, and consists of Quality Vehicles, which you are familiar with. Vehicles are kept in Top Condition in order to ensure the comfort and safety of all potential customers.

Booking with us is fast and easy, and we assure you that your car will be waiting for you at the Airport. After you make your reservation, you will receive your confirmation via email or fax. Simply print your confirmation, and present it to our agent upon arrival at the St. Maarten /St. Martin Airport.

Whether you come to the French or the Dutch side of the island, make sure to visit both countries. Don’t be afraid to get lost! There is only one main road that leads around the somewhat-circular shaped island.

Dollar Rent A Car is located in St Maarten /St Martin at the Princess Juliana Airport (SXM), Grand Case Airport, and other locations on the island. We offer vehicles of various types, from economy cars to jeeps and 4WD´s.

When touring the island, you will notice a difference in atmosphere in the two parts of the island. Shopping is great for jewelry, French clothing, perfumes, wines and alcohol-- all at great duty free prices!

The French side has a touch of Latin and French Mediterranean ambiance including the French lifestyle of "savoir vivre," i.e., know to enjoy life. This is especially true for great food! Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the French gastronomy and pay a visit to one of the fine restaurants in Marigot or the "Gourmet Capital" of Grand Case.

The Dutch side is noticeably influenced by the American way of living and you will feel more of a Las Vegas type of atmosphere. Casinos, island boutiques and shops, golf course, and beautiful beaches lined with bars, restaurants and water sport activities will keep you entertained. While getting around, you will see panoramic views that you will never forget!

Dollar Rent A Car is a value-oriented car rental company that has a significant presence both in the airport and local car rental markets, a marked difference from its major competitors who focus almost exclusively on the airport market. In the U.S., approximately 66% of its business is in the airport market, 34% in the local market.

In serving the airport market, Dollar operates "in-terminal" in 90 U.S. airport locations, with the balance of its stores located just off airport grounds.

The company is located in the terminal of every major airport in Canada , Australia and Caribbean