Why go? St Barts is a tiny, glamorous outpost of France (St Barthélemy is its proper French name), much-loved by the international jet-set. Only six miles (10 km) long, it’s the definitive Caribbean playground with well-kept beaches, eyepopping super-yachts and some very beautiful people. The hills are speckled with colourfully-painted luxury hotels, the restaurants serve oysters flown in from Paris, and the partying under the stars can get very lively. In a coconut shell, St Barts is a whole load of fun. All this comes with a hefty price tag, mind, and the island has no indigenous culture or historic sights to enjoy (apart from the old roués). Instead, the days are filled with sunbathing, sporty activity, spa treatments and shopping in the designer label-filled emporia of the capital, Gustavia. If you’ve fallen madly in love or have something to celebrate, this is an island made for indulgence.
Best for Honeymooners; sun-loving francophiles; party people.
Best avoided Potholes. If you hire a car, it’s best to get one with four-wheel drive to help tackle the steep hills and rough tracks out to the more remote parts of the island.
Need to know This is part of France, so French is the official language (though most people speak some English) and the currency is the euro.
TC Tip You can fly here from the UK via Antigua, or via Paris or Amsterdam to the neighbouring French/Dutch island of St Martin/St Maarten, which is a short ferry ride away.
Some of the content of the magazine refers to flights or prices from the UK. At Travel Counsellors Ireland we can source flights from Ireland and provide full quotes in Euros. Please call me for latest availability and prices.
