Saint Barthélemy travel tips
Saint Barthélemy travel tips: Chic Caribbean escape, French sophistication meets tropical beauty. White-sand beaches, luxury resorts, and charming villages define this idyllic island.
Comunes 🌎
Saint Barthélemy travel tips. Here is a list of all the activities in Saint Barthélemy.
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Gustavia
Flag Codes
ISO alpha-2 BL, ISO alpha-3 BLM
Currency
Badge | Euro
CODE | EUR
NUMBER | 978
SYMBOL | €
FRACTION | Penny
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +590
SIM Card
Coverage
3G / 4G / 5G
Mobile Networks | Dauphin Mobile | Digicel Mobile | Free Mobile | Orange Mobile |
Location
Saint Barthélemy, often referred to as St. Barts, is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea. It is situated in the northeastern part of the Caribbean, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of St. Martin and 230 kilometers east of Puerto Rico. St. Barts is part of the Leeward Islands, which are a subgroup of the Lesser Antilles.
The island covers an area of just 25 square kilometers (9.7 square miles) and is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged landscapes. St. Barts is located to the northwest of its neighboring island, St. Kitts and Nevis, and to the southeast of the Virgin Islands.
The capital and main town of St. Barts is Gustavia, located on the western coast of the island. Gustavia is known for its charming harbor, upscale boutiques, and vibrant dining scene. The island is a popular destination for luxury travel, attracting visitors from around the world who come to enjoy its beautiful beaches, high-end resorts, and relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.
Currency
The currency of Saint Barthélemy, often referred to as St. Barts, is the Euro (€). As an overseas collectivity of France, St. Barts uses the same currency as France and many other European countries.
Languages
The official language of Saint Barthélemy, often referred to as St. Barts, is French. As an overseas collectivity of France, French is widely spoken and understood by the local population. French is the language used in government, education, and official communications. English is also commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas, as St. Barts attracts visitors from around the world. Additionally, due to the island’s international nature, other languages such as Spanish and Portuguese may be spoken by some residents and tourists. However, for most interactions and services on the island, a basic understanding of French or English should suffice.
Climate 🌡
Saint Barthélemy, or St. Barts, has a tropical savanna climate characterized by warm temperatures and relatively consistent weather throughout the year. The island experiences two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season.
The dry season in St. Barts typically lasts from December to April, coinciding with the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere. During this period, the island sees lower precipitation levels and less humidity. Temperatures range from around 24°C (75°F) to 29°C (84°F), making it an ideal time to visit for those seeking warm and sunny weather. The trade winds provide a pleasant breeze, helping to keep temperatures comfortable.
The rainy season in St. Barts spans from May to November. This period sees increased rainfall and higher humidity levels. Showers and thunderstorms are more frequent during these months, but they are often short-lived and followed by sunny weather. The temperatures during the rainy season range from approximately 26°C (79°F) to 31°C (88°F).
Hurricane season in the Caribbean officially runs from June 1st to November 30th, with the highest likelihood of tropical storms and hurricanes occurring between August and October. While St. Barts is generally well-prepared for such weather events, it’s worth keeping an eye on weather forecasts and considering travel insurance if you plan to visit during this period.
Saint Barthélemy travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to Saint Barthélemy, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Island Hopping:
Consider day trips to nearby islands like Anguilla or St. Maarten for a diverse Caribbean experience.
Beach Etiquette:
Topless sunbathing is common, but nude sunbathing is illegal. Respect the local customs and beach etiquette.
Dining:
Indulge in French-Caribbean fusion cuisine at beachfront restaurants. Don’t miss trying local specialties and fresh seafood.
Nightlife:
Experience the vibrant nightlife in Gustavia. Many bars and clubs stay open late, offering a lively atmosphere.
Transportation:
Rent a car or scooter to explore the island’s beautiful beaches and hills. Taxis are available but can be pricey. View Guide.
Sunscreen:
Pack sunscreen and protective gear. The sun can be strong, and it’s essential to stay protected, especially on the beaches.
Boat Rentals:
Consider renting a boat to explore secluded coves and nearby islands at your own pace.
Enjoy the incredible beauty and diversity that Saint Barthélemy has to offer!
The best of the best
The cuisine of St. Barthélemy, also known as St. Barts, is a delightful fusion of French, Caribbean, and international flavors.
Fresh Seafood
With its coastal location, St. Barts offers a variety of fresh seafood options.
Accras
Accras are a popular appetizer in the Caribbean, including St. Barts..
Lobster Salad
St. Barts is known for its delicious lobster, and one popular way to enjoy it is in a lobster salad.
The island offers a range of culinary experiences, from fine dining establishments to casual beachfront eateries.
Here are some typical foods and dishes you can find in St. Barts:
Colombo: Colombo is a popular curry dish in the Caribbean, with influences from the Indian community. It typically consists of meat (chicken, goat, or pork) marinated in a fragrant spice blend featuring turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other spices. The meat is then simmered with onions, garlic, and vegetables to create a flavorful stew.
Accras de Morue: Accras de Morue is a variation of accras made specifically with salted codfish. The codfish is soaked to remove excess salt, then mixed with a batter of flour, herbs, spices, and sometimes vegetables. These fritters are then deep-fried until golden and crispy.
Coconut-based Dishes: Coconut is a common ingredient in Caribbean cuisine, and you’ll find it in various dishes in St. Barts. Coconut milk and grated coconut are used in sauces, soups, and desserts, adding a rich and tropical flavor to the dishes.
Ti Punch: While not a food item, the Ti Punch is a popular traditional drink in St. Barts. It consists of local rum, lime juice, and cane sugar, served over ice. It’s a refreshing and potent cocktail that is often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif.
The island’s culinary scene is diverse and influenced by the international mix of residents and visitors.
Transportation 🚥
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