SXM Guidebook

One reason the bus is scary for beginners is that they do not look like public transportation seen around the world. Change your expectations! On our island, the buses can be any brand of a multi-passenger van. Small, large, old, or new; the vans themselves can vary in countless ways, but there are a couple of identifying markers. First, on the Dutch side, the license plate will say the word BUS and the vehicle’s license numbers. Along with this, you will see an identifying marker that states the driver’s route. Most commonly this will be a sign in the front window that indicates the start and

Now that you can identify the bus you need, getting on board is a simple process. Riders can be picked up anywhere, the only necessity is that there is room for the driver to stop and load safely. You can also look for the new bus stops that have sprung up around the island to wait in the shade but beware. Buses are not under obligation to stop at every one. To get the bus to stop you need to wave them down as they near. Make sure you are standing on the correct side of the road for your destination and watch for a bus to approach. Some routes overlap, so make sure you have the correct one and

Just like when you board you can be dropped off anywhere that the driver can stop safely. When you see your destination approaching tell the driver, “Stop for me please.” Have your bus fare ready and hand it to them on your way out the door. Make sure you carry small change for the ride, especially in the mornings when they might not be able to make change yet. Exact change is always preferred. Again do not slam the door.

The routes around the island have set rates that are based on your pick up and drop off locations. During daytime hours rates from one town on the island to the next are $2/per person or less. You might have to take more than one bus to reach your destination. For example, to get to Grand Case from Philipsburg you would have to go from Philipsburg to Marigot ($2) and then from Marigot to Grand Case ($2). On the other hand, you might have to use a half route to get your destination. To get to Simpson Bay from Mullet Bay, you would take the Mullet Bay/Philipsburg Bus and then if you stop before

Buses generally start running early, before 7 AM, and take fares until approximately 8 PM. But the drivers make their own hours, so this varies. If you catch a very late bus the regulated rates increase after midnight. Children under the age of three ride for free. In general, if you are new to the bus system, some drivers or friendly riders can give you advice for getting around. Some drivers might take you farther than the end of their route for an extra fee, or tell you where to get off to find a certain location. Make sure to tip for those that go out of their way as the rates are so low t