We are here to bring you the scoop and review the nightlife scene and delicious late-night eats on the island of Sint Maarten. First, our late-night explorations began at this small bar located in the heart of Maho Village called ‘The Hole in the Wall.’ The name was fitting considering the small size of the bar’s indoor seating and location. However, there was a large outside area that featured many tables and chairs. The bar was designed to resemble an American dive bar. Metal signs lined the walls that featured popular phrases one would associate with America such as ‘Route 69 and a Coors Light sign located on the wall.’ The bar was dimly lit and had small booths and tables on the right side of the bar when you first walk inside. Also, each weekend, there is a singer who performs classic American hit songs. The drinks are diverse and moderately priced as well. Drink prices usually range from $10-$15. I got a vodka diet coke and paid $10 before the tip. However, I saw some customers drinking wine, beer, and different spirits. The establishment has a homey feeling and patrons greatly enjoy the atmosphere and camaraderie. I would say the usual guests at the bar are middle-aged. However, a group of us ranging from early to mid-twenties greatly enjoyed our time there. I would give The Hole in the Wall a 7/10 as an overall rating.
The nightclub that many tourists and young adults go to on the island is called ‘Moonbar.’ The club is located directly across the street from ‘The Hole in the Wall’ in Maho Village. The bar is located on the second floor of a strip of buildings. Therefore, one has to take the elevator or stairs to the second floor where the entrance stands. The bar features two floors. When you initially walk in, you are on the first of two floors. There is a small bar and dance floor on this floor. However, only a few people are scattered on this level. There is a small hostess stand where you are promptly greeted and welcomed into the club. On the ground level, there are various neon signs that guests can take pictures of to post on social media. From the moment you walk into the club, the lights are dim and glistening hues of purple, blue, and green fill the space. To reach the main area of entertainment, guests have to walk up a flight of stairs to the rooftop. When one arrives at the top, they are greeted with a mixture of EDM, pop, and rap hits from different cultures and countries that are blended together. The colorful strobe lights are present on the rooftop as well and shine throughout the club. When you reach the top of the stairs you are met with a swing and a faux grass area where one can take pictures or relax with their friends. This is a nice touch considering there are minimal areas to sit in the club. To the left of the stairs is a bright neon sign with angel wings and a halo. It features the words “Hey beautiful.” I saw many people take pictures with the sign throughout the night. The main area of the rooftop club featured a large dance floor, an expansive bar, a stage where the DJ performed, and many roped-off sections that were reserved for VIPs. The dance floor was illuminated by many lights and a large disco-like ball in the shape of a moon that hung from the metal structure that created a “ceiling.” It was such an expansive and nice area to dance and enjoy the night. To the right of the dance floor is a large countertop that served as the bar area. Bartenders, dressed in all black, would craft drinks for you. Moonbar had the most standard drinks that one could order at a bar. Throughout my multiple trips to Moonbar, I have ordered vodka sodas, moscow mules, Coronas, and a multitude of different shots. One thing to note is they do not sell wine. Therefore, if you strictly drink wine, Moonbar is not the place for you. The prices of drinks are a little more expensive than other clubs on the island. A single shot costs around $8 and a drink averages $12-$17. It is important to note that there is no cover at Moonbar and the ambiance is very appealing. However, this price point may steer potential patrons away. To the left of the dance floor is the DJ booth and stage. The stage is plenty large enough for performers. On one occasion at Moonbar, there was a lady playing the violin on stage while another performer blew fire out of their mouth and nose. This was a very unusual but interesting experience. Overall, I would rate Moonbar an 8/10 even though the drinks were expensive. The event space itself made up for the high prices.
The universal late-night munchies spot was top of the list to try. I am referring to the one and only Mcdonald’s. A group of us headed to Mcdonald’s for a very late dinner one night to taste what the Sint Maarten version had to offer. The location we went to was located on the Dutch side. I thought there would be some items that were native to The Netherlands on the menu. However, the menu was almost identical to the one in the United States. I will say this was disappointing. However, the food was delicious as usual. I got a snack wrap which is not on the menu in the United States. It was very filling and had an equal balance of protein, fat, and carbs. I will say the seasoning they use on the island is slightly different than the seasoning in the United States. Overall, the snack wrap, fries, and Mcflurry were all filling and delicious. It truly is the perfect meal after a long night out on the town. I give Mcdonald’s an 8/10.
The Hole in the Wall
https://www.instagram.com/theholeinthewallsxm/?hl=en
Moonbar
https://www.facebook.com/moonbarsxm/
McDonalds
