TravelTalkOnline Forums Travel and Vacation Forums St. Maarten - St. Martin Any Info on Francine's Car Rental?

We have been vacationing on island since 1991 - first year we missed was 2015, for our son's wedding, and then again in 2017 and 2018 due to my own medical issues. We have used a few car rental agencies over the years, Safari and ACE among them, but settled on Francine in the mid-90's because of her lower costs, friendly service, and she treated us right when some idiot backed into our car.Long story short, we would prefer to give our dollars to Francine when renting a car on island this summer, but do not see her listed anywhere. Her daughter, Tara, sometimes managed for her. Does anyone know if her business just washed away in Irma, or if she is still around? Appreciate any info. Thanks!

I do not recall seeing sign where it had always been. No idea for sure but I did not notice her business.

Hello ,
Actually the place where she was before got totally damaged on the Airport where she was ; i.e.. originally Budget Car Rental.

I received an email from Tara after Irma that she was out of business at the moment, but didn't say if she would be reopening. When we were on the island in October, we drove by & saw the building completely destroyed, so I doubt she will reopen. Such a lovely lady, we started renting from her about the same time. I will miss her!
This was part of the email that Tara sent from Maryland right after Irma-

As for now, the communication issues are very bad, I honestly do not know when I will hear from them. I will be going home to SXM as soon as there are flights available. We are now entering the clean up process, then we can start the rebuilding process. I am not certain of our business' future as I have no assessment of the damage. I do know that we are a resilient people and we will restore Paradise.

Thanks for the details - we will miss Francine!

Thanks - not good news but at least it is news.