St. Barths: where luxury meets relax
- Air Travel Solutions
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
St. Barths has discovered what the rest of the Caribbean is still striving to perfect: the art of making luxury casual. There's an authentic French sophistication in Gustavia, with its cobblestone streets, bistros offering impeccable croissants, and harbors filled with yachts that could be mistaken for the French Riviera. Yet, none of this sounds pretentious. We're still in the Caribbean, where going barefoot and having beachy hair is the norm.
What distinguishes St. Barths is how it balances its dual identity. You can spend the morning strolling along the tranquil shores of Colombier Beach and, in the afternoon, exploring the luxury boutiques in Gustavia. Explore the coast at dusk and then savor a five-course dinner. Flamands and Saline are among the most stunning beaches in the area, and the winding hillside roads lead to viewpoints and hidden coves, making every detour feel like a discovery.
Things you need to know
Discover the best times to travel, how to get there, and the entry requirements to make the most of your getaway in St. Barth.
Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Although credit cards are generally accepted, it is advisable to carry cash for small boutiques, beach clubs, and local markets. Tipping 10-15% in restaurants is customary, but rounding up is also common.
Languages: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Learning a few expressions in French shows respect for the local culture and makes communication with locals easier.
Essential phrases: bonjour (hello), merci (thank you), s'il vous plaît (please), pardon (excuse me/sorry), comment ça va? (how are you?), oui/non (yes/no), je ne parle pas français (I don't speak French), parlez-vous anglais? (do you speak English?).
Airports: The main point of entry to the island is Gustaf III Airport (SBH). Its short runway allows for the arrival of small aircraft originating from San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Martin, and other adjacent islands. The landing experience is unforgettable, thanks to the surrounding hills and proximity to a road.
Transportation: To reach remote locations, it is recommended to rent a car or a moke (an open vehicle similar to a golf cart), with convenient pick-up options available at the airport or through hotels. Although they can be expensive and, on occasion, scarce, taxis represent an alternative.
Best time to visit: To enjoy the ideal beach weather, calm sea, and vibrant nightlife of the island, visit between December and mid-April. May and June are months with calmer beaches and warm, humid weather. During the low season, which coincides with the peak of hurricane season, most hotels and restaurants close from the end of August until October.
Recommended length of stay: Four nights is the minimum time needed to enjoy the uncomplicated luxury of St. Barth. A week offers more opportunity to discover secluded beaches, fine dining restaurants, and the island's vibrant nightlife.
Traditional drinks and dishes
Accras de morue: crispy cod fritters served with a spicy Creole sauce.
Colombo: a Caribbean curry prepared with chicken, goat or seafood, as well as spices typical of the island.
Grilled Langouste: fresh local grilled lobster, usually served with garlic butter or Creole seasoning.
Bokit: fried bread sandwiches filled with fish, chicken, or vegetables.
Tartare de thon: Fresh tuna tartare seasoned with lemon, herbs, and local olive oil.
Pain de coco: sweet coconut bread, usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
Ti' punch: the island's signature drink, made with artisanal rum, lime, and sugarcane syrup.
Planteur: a fruity rum-based drink combined with tropical juices and island spices.
Rosé wine: A staple of St. Barths' seaside culinary culture, usually enjoyed chilled with a sea view.
Rhum arrangé: Local rum flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, or tropical fruits.
What to wear: For beach days and casual lunches, opt for light and airy clothing. Have a sophisticated and elegant look ready for fine dining and nightlife. St. Barths attracts an elegant clientele, so dress to match the island's glamour.
Suggestions for traveling
Smoking: It is prohibited in enclosed spaces and in many public areas.
Drinking: Alcohol consumption is permitted from the age of 18, however, it is prohibited to consume alcoholic beverages in public outside of authorized locations.
Driving: the roads can be narrow and winding, with traffic driving on the right. St. Barths is a small island, and it's possible to cross it from end to end in approximately 20 minutes, making exploration easier.
Medications: Bring your prescription medications in their original packaging; pharmacies are available, but some medications may require a prescription.
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