Where is Saint Barts Island located? Saint Barthelemy - the most glamorous island in the Caribbean
We continue our series of Caribbean reports.
So, you find yourself in Saint Martin, and not on cruise ship, for a period of daylight, and in an honest way - by arriving by plane. Most likely, you have at least a week left that you need to spend properly, agree. An option - lying on Maho Beach all week is welcome, but it is much more interesting to visit the surrounding islands. In the surrounding area you can find three fairly large and inhabited islands- Saba (territory of the Netherlands), Angila (Great Britain) and St. Barths (France). And here it all depends on what visa you have in your passport. People usually fly to Saint Martin with a French or Dutch visa overseas territories, I recommend immediately applying for the French one, because with this visa you can visit the most interesting island of the above is the islet of Saint Barthélemy, as it is officially called. A piece of France in the Caribbean. Dream Island.
2. So, let's go. There are two ways to get to St. Barths - a short flight on a small plane, or an hour-long flight Boat trip on a modern catamaran shuttle. If you decide to fly by plane, especially during the high season, take tickets in advance; it’s difficult to get them a day before, they sell out. For this reason, we decided to go to the island by sea. Ferries operate from Marigot and Phillipsburg, with new catamarans operated by Voyager (www.voy12.com) operating from the former capital. The first flight is at 9.15 am, the return flight is at 17.15, which is of course a bit early, here it is better to fly back by plane, the last evening flight. The cost of a round-trip ticket is 67 euros, the flight duration is an hour - an hour fifteen. You will get serious motion sickness along the way, if sea crossings are not your thing, be sure to buy an anti-motion sickness remedy at the pharmacy, as an option - the French Hepatoum Mercalm, tested - it helps a lot.
So, early morning, the first of February 2013. Our path lies to the other end of the island, to the town of Marigot, the capital of the French part of the island. This is where the ferries we have chosen depart from. An hour - and we are at the company office. It's easy to find - if you enter Marigot from the north, then immediately after the yacht pier, on the right, on the corner there is a small office, you won't get lost.
3. It is better to book tickets in advance via the Internet or by phone. Or, if you're lucky, buy it on the spot before sailing. We were lucky:)
4. We took beer and ice cream, loaded on board, having previously passed passport control. Strange, but true - they put a stamp in the passport, and in the territory of Guadeloupe.
The catamaran, turning its stern, turned around and rushed into the sea. in the Caribbean, yeah.
5. The ferry is quite comfortable, there are two open decks and two halls. There is a business class cabin.
6. It’s more fun on the open deck; splashes in the face keep you from getting bored :)
7. Along the way, the stewards offer light drinks, and when the ferry goes out to the open sea and the main fun begins, they smear some menthol thing on the wrists of everyone who wants it - it helps against motion sickness, slightly. For those who don't help, use the bags :) full service. but we held up well, as the next photo demonstrates - Estai and Togzhan enjoying the sea views.
8. Boats and yachts are frolicking around, like a mosquito fleet! But one of these villas on the hill is ours for the week :)
10. Along the way you come across many uninhabited islets and reefs
11. The distance to Saint Barth is 30 kilometers, and now we are approaching Gustavia, the capital of the island. There is an ancient fort on the mountain.
12. here is the port of Gustavia
13. We unloaded onto solid ground, hugged her, my dear, and began reconnaissance of the area. We immediately made the mistake of looking for a car rental office elsewhere. Public transport? We haven’t heard of it, millionaires don’t ride minibuses. There are taxis, but the prices are exorbitant in Paris. So, do you see the guy on the left wearing a T-shirt with the Hertz logo? Catch him, he’s the one in charge of skeet here. It was only later that I saw him in the photo. While we were clicking our beaks, all the cars were snapped up and we were offered to walk to the airport, there is another rental office there.
14. We didn’t deceive you. At the box office, the lonely Frenchman was bored and perked up at the sight of such wonderful clients. At first there was an idea to take such a crazy stool.
15. But they decided that this hybrid of a motor scooter and a Lamborghini looked too suspicious, and the bolivar could not bear four, and it was unreasonable to take two. Therefore, we settled on a beat-up BMW convertible - as the most appropriate for the moment.
The rental company surprised me - it didn’t even block the funds on the card, everything was based on trust. Moreover, he took out a map and told in detail where it was better to go and where it was more interesting to swim. As for lunch, having learned that we wanted to visit Eden Rock, I just rolled my eyes and said with a breath that we were unlikely to find a table there. As the flood showed, I was wrong.
16. Oh well. Go explore the island! The main driver was the self-appointed Alimzhan (although I later drove along the serpentines a little)
17. So, actually the whole island. There is only a small population - about 9,000 rich people. Well, perhaps a third are service personnel, but in any case, the level of millionaires per unit of area is off the charts. The island is a resort just for them. The Internet is great for googling various glamorous reports about stars on the island. Well, for understanding - a map.
18. First of all - airplanes, as usual. And here the airport is nearby
19. We go down to the beach, Baie de St. Jean
20. The strip is not fenced on this side, smoothly rolls down to the beach and dives into the sea
21. Amazing trust in vacationers!
23. It’s very convenient to shoot airplanes. This is, of course, not neighboring Saint Martin, there is no large airliners, but there is its own charm here too. Pilots are not spoiled by attention here :)
24. However, it’s a bit extreme to photograph airplanes taking off from the end - there’s a complete feeling that your belly is about to touch the lens :) In this photo, the board took off normally, and after it the pilot probably deliberately pulled it to the end of the runway :)
25. The beach itself is also worthy of attention - white, clean, like the rest of the beaches here. That day the windsurfing championship was held.
26. Dozens of bright sails filled the lagoon
27. We weren’t the only ones filming here anymore
28. While we were splashing in the waves Caribbean Sea, it was time for lunch. Well, let's check out Eden Rock? They say that world-famous stars will dine here. A certain Abramovich, no, no, comes here from his villa
29. This is not just a restaurant, it is a six-star bungalow complex. In principle, there are very few hotels in St. Barths; mostly villas are rented here, and for the long term. In Eden Rock the price tag starts from 480 euros, other hotels are a little cheaper. Now you understand that it makes sense to come here just for the day, or take a tent with you :) Although, again, it all depends on you
30. View from the hotel balcony
31. The restaurant itself. Haute French cuisine at its best. In fact, everything is very tasty! The prices, surprisingly, were not put into a trance, everything was within reason. The service is at the highest level, as indicated in the glamorous report on the above link - this is not Paris, they are not rude here :)
32. Celebrities (as a matter of fact!) were not noticed. Although, who knows, maybe a Hollywood actor was sitting at the next table, and an heiress of millions was sunbathing on the beach... I still don’t know them by sight :)
33. Having dined, we went further to conquer highest peak islands. The roads are quite good, and, as Vinsky correctly noted in his report, there are no black horsemen here who like to stand in the middle of the road on their rydvan and have a nice conversation with a friend. Let us note that there are practically no blacks here, it’s expensive, sir. Also, accordingly, there are no black villages that so surprised me on Marten. Everything here is about the same level - expensive and cool, there is no poverty at all. But the roads are a bit narrow :)
34. Climbed up, observation deck
35. We go up and the beauty takes our breath away!
36. Rocks are interspersed with small and very cozy beaches
37. The parapet is painted - what rises above sea level and on which side
38. Yachts rest in a quiet lagoon. Modest and tasteful :)
39. Boats glide between the islands every now and then
40. What is not a postcard from exotic countries? :)
41. The beaches, by the way, are very different. From large and equipped with all the benefits of civilization
42. to small, domestic ones
43. But with nature here everything is the same as in Saint-Martin, the main plant is various types of cacti
45. Pyalzh Gouverner. Is it clear why this collection of cans hangs at the entrance?
46. Not equipped with anything, only sea, sand, rocks around the edges. But all this is of the highest quality
47. There are very few people on the beach, I don’t want to relax! Clean, mind you! There are no janitors, no lifeguards, there are only decorous French and surprisingly civilized Americans
48. There are also nudist beaches here, but we didn’t go there. We also had enough experience in Saint-Martin, from where we ran faster than a deer :) But here, too, French customs reign. Pourquoi pas?
49. We also appreciated this beach, good! and what waves there are here! But time flies, the sun has long passed midday, and there is still so much to do! We rush on. I am the navigator, I guide our crew using a paper map (GPS on the hundred square meters decided to temporarily refuse). We drove into the very heart of the island, admired the valley and the pond named after Comrade Saint Jacques, and even stood in a mini-traffic jam
50. and suddenly left again for the airport. well, how suddenly, we are spotters or not spotters :) this time - the upper part of it. Everything is strict here!
51. The airport is at your fingertips!
52. Planes come in directly overhead and dive sharply down towards the runway! This photo, for some time now, has been displayed in quick search St. Barts is among the first images on Google upon request :) Hello Vox!
53. Landings are not always successful, sometimes this happens (video not mine)
54. and here is the view from the pilot’s side (again, video from the network)
55. We’re filming airplane stuff; French and Creole women are rushing past on motor scooters.
Gustavia - main city island named after the Swedish king. The city was founded on the shores of a convenient bay, in the harbor of which exquisite yachts are moored. Gustavia is a charming village with red-roofed houses inspired by Sweden's past.
Gustavia is famous for its first-class restaurants with panoramic views, drinking bars right on the seafront and duty-free shops where you can buy Havana cigars, French perfumes, Italian designer clothes and fine wines. You can meet some Hollywood celebrities on the beaches and restaurants of the city.
Fabulous Caribbean island invites you to luxury holiday, which will be remembered for a long time as pleasant impressions.
Coordinates: 17.89805600,-62.85305600
Saint Jean Beach
It's beautiful here White sand, sandy bottom, there are practically no strong waves. Saint-Jean is ideal for families with children and long walks along the beach. The Carib Waterplay water sports center is located here, and Jean-Michel, the owner of the establishment, gives windsurfing lessons. There is also a rental point for catamarans, windsurfing boards, and kayaks.
Saint-Jean actually consists of 2 beaches, which are separated by the famous Eden Rock hotel. To the right of the hotel is Pelican Beach, a very calm place where sea turtles can sometimes be seen. The famous restaurant of the Nikki Beach chain is also located here. To the left are numerous villas and hotels, as well as the beach restaurant La Plage at the Tom Beach Hotel.
Fashion shoots are often carried out on Saint-Jean.
Coordinates: 17.90428200,-62.83978200
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Lorient beach
Thanks to the reef that separates the beach from the open sea and protects it from strong waves, there are good conditions for swimming. From here you have an amazing view of the reef and small fishing boats. Take it with you sunscreen, because there is no way to hide in the shadows. Surprisingly, this most beautiful place still remains unknown to most tourists.
This uncrowded beach - favorite place all local and visiting surfers. White sand, waves and a colorful surf school house are the best memories of your vacation.
Coordinates: 17.90710500,-62.82325300
Grand cu de Sac beach is the calmest of all the beaches on the island and is ideal for families with small children. It is shallow here, the water is warm, but not as clear as on other beaches. The Grand cu de Sac is shallow and there are no waves at all.
The famous hotels Le Guanahani and Le Serano are located here. This is an ideal place for such activities aquatic species sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. There is a diving club and jet sky rental here.
Coordinates: 17.91016800,-62.80371600
Flamand Beach
This is a beautiful and long beach, there is white sand, a good sandy bottom. This beach often has strong waves, so swimming can sometimes be scary. Flamant is not suitable for swimming with small children. The far end is very popular among bodyboarders and skimboarders.
On Flamand there are the fashionable hotels Saint-Barth Isle De France and Taiwana, as well as 2 restaurants where it is very pleasant to sit with friends over a long French lunch. The beach seems conducive to a leisurely pastime.
Coordinates: 17.91912100,-62.85715600
Marigot Beach
This is a small, calm bay with a narrow coastline, small gray sand and coconut grove. Marigot Beach is suitable for those who prefer diving. Even if you have never dived underwater with scuba gear, but only dream about it, looking for a suitable place, then consider that you have already found it. Marigot is the perfect place to discover underwater world Caribbean Sea.
A serene bay, an interesting beach, majestic palm trees and the mysterious beauty of the Caribbean Sea - all this evokes trembling admiration and delight.
Don't forget to bring sunscreen, drinking water and a hat.
Coordinates: 17.91035400,-62.80875200
Colombier Beach
This beautiful, large and uncrowded beach can be reached in a few minutes by boat, yacht or along a small path in the rocks overlooking Petite Anse (20 minutes). Colombier is an ideal place for snorkeling. Here you can see sea turtles, stingrays, and starfish. Be careful, as there is no shade on the beach.
Colombier Beach is also known as Rockefeller Beach due to the fact that it was once home to the Rockefeller family's villa.
This place is perfect for those looking for privacy. Colombier is the least visited beach. Here you will not meet more than 5-10 people. Usually these are scuba divers.
Coordinates: 17.92330100,-62.86853500
Salin Beach
This is a magnificent beach, the most “wild” and most beloved among local residents. Go down to sand dune You can only follow a path in the rocks. This will take about 5 minutes and it is better to wear shoes. Bring sunscreen because there is no shade to hide here. Salina often has quite strong waves. It is also a favorite beach for nudists, especially in the early morning.
In front of the beach park there are several good restaurants, but be prepared for the occasional unpleasant smell coming from the salt fields located directly opposite the restaurants.
Between the beaches of Thuany and Salines in the Grand Fond area there is a mini-bay that local surfers call the Wachine Machine. This is a breathtakingly beautiful, but very dangerous place.
Coordinates: 17.88747700,-62.82212400
The most popular attractions in Saint-Barthélemy with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose best places for visiting famous places Saint-Barthelemy on our website.
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From St. Petersburg to Saint Barthélemy, the cheapest and fastest flight is also with Vinair and Air France: the journey through the French capital lasts from 16 hours and costs from 1000 EUR one way.
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Transport Saint Barthélemy
There is no public transport in Saint Barthélemy. The only way to get around the island is by taxi. Parking lots are located at Gustav III Airport and in Gustavia; you can also call a car by phone. A trip from the airport to the capital costs 25 EUR, to Grand Cuis de Sac - 40 EUR, at nights and on weekends rates increase by 50%. In the absence of an alternative, tourists often ask taxi drivers to act as guides: the cost of a sightseeing trip around the surrounding area with driver commentary is 45 EUR for 45 minutes, 60 EUR for 90 minutes. If there are more than 4 passengers in the group, you will have to pay an additional 8 EUR for each.
WITH by land transport It’s a little tight in St. Barths, but things are a little better with water. Speed boats depart to the neighboring island of Saint-Martin several times a day (transfer - from 64 EUR, schedule and tickets - on the official website of one of the carriers (in English)). If you wish, you can rent a yacht: the cost is from 1300 EUR per week, the pleasure of viewing the picturesque landscapes from the deck of your own snow-white beauty is priceless, ask any of the local millionaires.
Rent a Car
Renting a car in Saint Barthelemy is not an optional luxury, but a vital necessity: endless taxi trips will ruin even the wealthiest tourist, and you can’t get around the entire island on foot. The rental companies' offices are located at the airport; you can also book a car at the hotel: they will drive it right to the entrance without any problems. There are both local (Maurice, Gumbs) and international (Budget, Hertz, Avis, Europcar) offices in St. Barths. The rental cost depends on the season: in summer a compact car will cost 23-35 EUR, a convertible - from 60, an SUV - 35-65 EUR per day, in winter prices can almost double. There are only two gas stations on the island: near the airport and near Lorient beach, both are closed on Sundays.
An alternative to a car is a scooter: rental cost starts from 30 EUR per day, depending on the season.
Driving in St. Barths is an interesting experience: the roads are narrow, winding, with sudden sharp turns. The maximum permissible speed is 50 km/h. Traffic around the airport and Gustavia can be heavy, but there are no major traffic jams. Parking is free everywhere, you can leave your car in almost any convenient place, with the exception of the central harbor of the capital: you are allowed to park there for no more than 2 hours at a time.
Communication and Wi-Fi
Quality mobile communications in Saint Barthélemy is excellent, but the providers' services are quite expensive, and connection takes time. Largest operators- Orange, Dauphine Telecom and Digicel. The first step is to install a special chip with a local number, which will be available within 24 hours: the France Telecom office in Saint-Jean or cellular phone shops at a gas station near the airport and in Gustavia will help you understand the intricacies.
For international calls you will need a SIM card from one of the operators. For example, Dauphin Telecom has tariffs that can be activated without a contract: cost - 25.90 EUR, calls within the overseas communities of France - 0.30 EUR per minute, to other countries - from 0.70 EUR.
There are coin and card payphones in St. Barths. It is more convenient to make calls abroad: cards of various denominations are sold at post offices, tobacco and newsstands and at gas stations. Free Wi-Fi Available only in hotels and some restaurants in Saint-Jean and Gustavia. The operator Dauphine Telecom offers Internet cards with prepaid traffic (200-4000 MB) starting from 5 EUR.
Saint Barthélemy Hotels
Hotels in St. Barths are more than comfortable, with impeccable service and a wide range of additional services. Accommodation to suit the most demanding tastes can be found in Gustavia and in all other points of the island. Most hotels (there are about 30 of them here) are small and cozy, aimed at wealthy tourists. Villas and bungalows with private gardens and swimming pools, located at the foot of picturesque hills or right on the beaches, are extremely popular. Almost all of them are rented for at least a week (in high season - two).
The mains voltage is 220 V, the sockets are French (type E), which does not require an adapter.
A holiday in luxurious St. Barths requires serious investment: hostels and campsites are unheard of here. The cheapest accommodation is offered by hotels without “stars” in Gustavia: from 310 EUR per day for a double room with sea view. Rates in luxury “fives” are 360-650 EUR per night (breakfast included). An alternative to hotels is apartments (from 480 EUR per day) or private villas (from 610 EUR per day). In the high season, housing becomes more expensive (although, it would seem, much less): rooms in “non-star” hotels - from 350 EUR, in 5* hotels - from 650 EUR per day.
Money
The country's currency is the Euro (EUR), 1 euro is 100 euro cents. Current rate: 1 EUR = 69.88 RUB.
The official currency of Saint Barthelemy since 2002 is the euro, but US dollars are also accepted almost everywhere. Banks are open from 8:30 to 15:00-16:00 from Monday to Friday, on Saturday - until noon, Sunday - closed. Currency exchange offices are open all week from 9:00 to 18:00, some exchange offices near banks are open around the clock. Hotels offer the least favorable rates, so it's best to look for a nearby bank branch.
Credit cards Visa, Cirrus and MasterCard are in use almost everywhere, but there are still establishments where you can only pay in cash. There are many ATMs on the island; cash is issued only in euros. In St. Barths, it is beneficial to use travel checks in dollars and euros: in some stores, their owners are given a 20% discount. Tips (10%) are automatically included in the bill in most restaurants; in other cases, the staff relies on the generosity of customers. In a taxi you can pick up change without a twinge of conscience: the prices are such that there is enough for tea.
How to avoid problems
Saint Barthélemy is the most safe place in the Caribbean: the crime rate here is consistently low. Of course, there are always those who are not averse to profiting from wealthy tourists: pickpockets from time to time hunt at the airport, at the Gustavia pier and near attractions, so it is worth remaining vigilant and keeping your wallet, documents and valuables under supervision. Moreover, not all hotels are equipped with safes: you have to rely only on yourself. But almost no one locks their cars here: it’s almost impossible to steal them from the island.
Poisonous manchinella trees grow at the resort: touching their leaves or fruits can cause a serious burn. For the peace of mind of tourists, locals mark them with red paint.
There is no need to be vaccinated before traveling to St. Barths. Scolopendras and mosquitoes that carry dengue fever pose some health risks. Most villas and hotels use the services of specialized companies that treat the area against insects, but it is better to play it safe and take repellent with you. You can’t do without protective cream at all: the scorching tropical sun is no joke. Caution is also a good idea in the water: at depth there are yellow-red fire corals that leave severe burns when they come into contact with the skin. Jellyfish are rare guests off the coast of St. Barths, but if an unpleasant encounter does occur, just rub the affected area with fine sand.
Beaches of Saint Barthélemy
Saint Barthélemy is ideal for beach holiday: the waters of the Caribbean Sea are clean, the landscapes are photogenic, and the coastline is well-groomed. The shores are mostly rocky, surrounded by small islands and coral reefs, but there are also sandy areas, occupied to varying degrees by spoiled holidaymakers. All recreation areas are municipal and free, but the entertainment infrastructure is not established everywhere.
The most beautiful beach in the south is Salin with white sand and turquoise sea. The path here is already a pleasure: you will have to get there along a picturesque path winding among the rocks. There are practically no amenities, umbrellas and sunbeds too: nothing interferes with unity with magnificent nature. After soaking up the sun to your heart’s content, you can “catch” the waves (they are sometimes quite impressive here) or have lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
The coast of Shell Beach is not covered with sand, but with small shells.
The most popular beaches are concentrated in Gustavia and Saint-Jean: there are hotels, restaurants, amenities and sports equipment rentals. For families with children, the capital's Shell Beach is good with a gentle, and therefore absolutely safe entrance to the water. During the day you can hide from the burning sun under a canopy or palm tree, and in the evening you can admire the incredible sunset. By the way, Shell Beach is the most democratic and chaste beach on the island: nudists who feel at home in St. Barths come here the least often.
Swimming is prohibited in Grand Fond Bay as underwater boulders and corals can cause serious injury. Beginner windsurfers flock to the Grand Cu de Sac, where the coral-protected bay makes it easy to learn how to stand on a board. It is better for professionals to go to Flamant: only masters can conquer the local waves. For fans of solitude, we recommend Gouverneur Beach: here you can not only sunbathe in silence, but also look for legendary pirate treasures.
Diving
The main entertainment in Saint Barthélemy is related to the sea: diving in the Caribbean waters (as well as fishing, catching waves, sailing on catamarans, and just swimming) is a sheer pleasure. Marigot Beach is perfect for diving - a cozy bay with amazingly beautiful underwater landscapes. Beginner divers prefer the Grand Cu de Sac: it is shallow, there are almost no waves, but there is also a minus - the water is not as clear as in other parts of the island. Near Gouverneur beach there are schools of tropical fish; on Petit Cu de Sac you can find turtles, stingrays and sunfish, and at night even lobsters and sharks. Pelicans also love this quiet lagoon: they fish, teach their babies to fly, and are not the least bit afraid of curious tourists.
There are several dive clubs open in the capital and on the Grand Cuis de Sac, offering dives with an instructor for 70-80 EUR.
The main audience of Colombier Beach are scuba divers who frighten stingrays and sea turtles. And the most breathtaking views open up in the waters of the marine reserve, marked by white buoys: exotic fish, reef sharks, lobsters and other inhabitants put on a whole show surrounded by colorful corals.
Shopping
Guests of Saint Barth are experienced shopaholics: the sellers know this and create all the conditions for comfortable throwing away money. Luxury boutiques of big-name designers are open in Gustavia and Saint-Jean: you can easily dress up for dinner in a luxury restaurant. The center of universal attraction is the capital's embankment of the Republic with jewelry shops and fashion salons of the Louis Vuitton and Cartier level. It is best to purchase creations from Chanel, Hermes, Gucci and Prada in the multi-brand Laurent Effel, which is in no way inferior to the Milan and Paris stores. There are also duty-free shopping points in Saint Barthélemy with a decent assortment of cigars, perfumes, clothing and elite alcohol. By the way, about alcohol: it is better to taste and buy it at the Absolutely Wine wine library, opened by a famous sommelier.
Prices in Saint-Jean are slightly lower than in Gustavia.
The most popular souvenirs from St. Barths are basketry (especially straw hats, beach bags and fans), paintings of idyllic landscapes and sea shell jewelry. They are sold in colorful shops scattered throughout the island, as well as at the market in Gustavia. Store opening hours on weekdays are 9:00-18:00 (from 12:00 to 14:00-15:00 everything is closed for lunch), on Saturdays - 9:00-13:00, Sunday - closed. Duty free shopping points are open longer: until 19:00-20:00.
Cuisine and restaurants of Saint Barthélemy
The cuisine of Saint Barthelemy is reminiscent of French, only with Creole and African notes and an island flavor. Fish and seafood are actively used here, but they don’t forget about meat. The main delicacies from it are wild goat "gut-colombo", fried in hot spices, rabbit stew with vegetables, and for the most daring - blood sausage "boudin". Poultry is also held in high esteem: tender turkey or chicken with rice and exotic fried pigeons are a must-try.
Seafood is a different story: the resort prepares it simply delicious. Gourmets should treat themselves to stuffed crab "autarne", boiled octopus "shatru", crab meat in white wine "matuto de coabes", Creole fish stew, lobster brioche and spicy shellfish broth. The most outlandish treats - sea urchins, red snapper and turtle soup. The best tropical dessert is, of course, fruit: salads and fresh juices from papaya, guava, passion fruit, pineapple and tangerine.
Alcohol is not produced in Saint Barths, but they more than compensate for this with a variety of elite wines from around the world.
The choice of fashionable restaurants is huge: talented chefs work tirelessly to serve local, French, Mexican, Indian and Chinese cuisines. The most popular establishments are concentrated on sea coast, but you can eat delicious food in any part of the island. A light breakfast costs from 10 EUR, lunch - from 20 EUR, dinner with alcohol - from 50 EUR per person. In some eateries - for example, on the capital's Shell Beach - the average bill reaches 200 EUR for two. Most restaurants are open until 22:00-23:00, then the respectable public moves to fashionable nightclubs.
Entertainment and attractions
The main historical attractions of Saint Barthelemy are located in Gustavia. The Swedish defensive complexes are most impressive: in the ancient forts of Gustav and Karl, guardhouses, ammunition depots and other structures have been preserved. Of architectural interest are the Governor's House and the Presbytery, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. The center of local religious life is the Anglican Episcopal Church: a neat building with a wooden bell tower surrounded by lush tropical greenery.
A walk to the snow-white lighthouse with a red top that looks like a life preserver will be a particular pleasure.
There are also museums in Saint-Barthelemy: in the capital - Municipal with an original collection of paintings and historical documents and “Eden” with works of contemporary artists. In the village of Corossol, the Ingenue-Magras gallery is open with shells, corals, stars and other exhibits raised from depths of the sea. Outside of Gustavia, the village of Lorient, where French settlers first settled, is worth a visit: neat streets and an old Catholic church seem to take you back to a distant past. Authentic settlements are partially preserved in Corossol. And on Mount Morne du Vit it is equipped Observation deck with the most impressive panorama on the island.
Holidays and events in Saint Barthélemy
The festive atmosphere reigns in St. Barths all year round, but there are, of course, events celebrated on a special scale. First on their list are Catholic Christmas and New Year: Rich people from all over the world come to the Caribbean Saint-Tropez to party in grand style. May 27 is celebrated as Slavery Abolition Day, July 14 is Bastille Day.
But the most advanced crowd occupies Saint Barthélemy during the festivals for which the island is famous. The main musical event is the January festival of jazz and classical music, which lasts two weeks. World-class stars perform not in a boring way concert halls and not even in open areas: the ancient churches of Gustavia and Lorian become the stage for them.
In August, a three-day celebration of Caribbean music is held: famous and emerging performers from Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique and other parts of the region fill the air of St. Barths with the sounds of reggae, salsa and Creole folk tunes. And April is marked by cinema: famous directors demonstrate their films and organize master classes as part of the Caribbean Film Festival, established in 1996.
Island in the Caribbean Sea, French overseas territory: Saint Barths Island
Saint Barts or completely Saint Barthelemy| Saint Barthelemy - who makes fun of French: Saint Barthelemy
Saint Barth Island in the Caribbean Sea.
Beaches in St. Barths.
Photos of Saint Barts.
Review of St. Barths separated from topic
A small islet 28 km south of the island Saint Martin(Saint Martin), which is the gateway to this Paradise Island since it's a small airport Gustavia(capital of St. Barths) accepts only light propeller-driven aircraft.
Another way to get to Saint Barth is by ferry from Marigot, the capital of the French part of the island of Saint Martin. The capital of the French part of Saint Martin is Marigot.
The city's calling card: the "sticky birds" fountain
This is a view of Marigot from the embankment.
At the bottom shopping mall, everything is very beautiful in style.
Tickets to St. Barths
A return ticket from Saint Martin to Saint Barth costs $80 when booked in advance by calling Voyager: http://www.voy12.com
Travel time is 1 hour 15 minutes.
Ferry: a brand new catamaran with two air-conditioned salons and two open decks (upper and lower).
The ferry makes several trips a day. The schedule is on the website
Saint Barts In the morning the first flight from St. Maarten is at 9:15
In the evening the last one from St. Barths is at 17:00 From Philipsburg Ferries also operate, but they are smaller, older and not catamarans.
The sea will rock harder.
Saint Barts There is another carrier company from Marigot: West Indian Co, but the ship is old and will flop around at sea - I’m sure.
Getting to Saint Barth is easy:
— we booked two tickets the day before the trip by phone.
— In the morning we arrived in Marigot and abandoned the car at free parking in the Marina Fort Louis area - there are several of them and there are always places.
— We bought tickets: I paid $80 in dollars for a round trip ticket (all taxes included)
— Then we went through passport control (the same overseas French visa is valid in Saint Barts as in Saint Martin) and boarded the catamaran.
The ferry departs from the shore and goes around the entire western part islands, then goes in a straight line for 28 km and here we are - in the marina of the capital of Saint Barth, the city Gustavia. A small and cute town.
Very similar to any town Cote d'Azur France or northern lakes Italy: straight streets going uphill and three avenues parallel to the marina (mooring and parking place for expensive yachts).
I forgot about Gustavia: the island itself is miniature, like everything else here.
Gustavia is the capital of Saint Barths
The first thing that catches your eye: the abundance of shops and boutiques expensive brands. Electric cars and buggies, Mini convertibles and good looking people.
Very few blacks.
The bulk of the inhabitants are Americans, Europeans and, as they say, Russians.
After Roman Abramovich built an orphanage here on a plot of several hectares in the area of Gouverneur Beach (more about it below) and restored the football stadium, small oligarchs of all stripes flocked here.
They say that the percentage of American and Russian land lords is 80 to 20. We are there.
We go a little lost, because there is no information about this island except idiotic essays from travel agencies and some ladies in search of glamor.
We walk along the road along the marina where there are beautiful and expensive yachts and come across Rent Car.
Car rental in Saint Barths
It's not difficult to find it:
After leaving the ferry and turning right, go along Rue de la Republique and then along Rue de General de Gaulle.
Past good shops with expensive watch, suits, jewelry...
After Rue de Lafayette crosses your path, you will see ATVs and buggies parked.
The Rent Car sign is not noticeable, but you won’t miss the office.
What can be rented: ATV or, in our case, an ATV. I even see bugs, like I have in my garage at the dacha, only in blue. You can take a scooter. Or maybe a car. Since it’s starting to rain, we decide to take a car. A small automatic Hyundai costs 48 euros for the day. Needed for rent driver license and a bank plastic card. A deposit of 1000 euros is frozen on it, which is immediately returned to the account when returning the car. We are on wheels.
We have a map of the island and notes made by the owner of the office: what to see in St. Barths.
Saint Barts Airport
Our first point is the airport: the highest point from which it is clearly visible and you can watch planes take off and land is located on the first roundabout after leaving the city to the north, towards the village of Flamands
We stop and I take a few shots: below us is a green valley with a gray line crossed out runway resting on the yellow spot of the beach, and then... further on, the blue of the sea merges with the blue of the sky at that distant point called the horizon...
Very beautiful.
I recommend visiting.
Hotel on St. Barths
Then we drive down, past the tiny airport, the road turns right and on the right there will be a parking lot where you can park your car and then walk along the fence enclosing the territory of the runway to get to the beach. But we drive further and park in the parking lot of the hotel-restaurant Eden Rock
Well, just a very beautiful restaurant and hotel.
While I’m digging around, opening the car door with things that I need to take with me to the beach, a guy comes up:
- Have you come to eat?
- No, just look
- Then please do not lock the car and leave the keys in the ignition.
We go out along the path made of decking to the beach: beauty. White sand, shallow azure sea and sections of villas facing the sea. The sections are not limited in any way, just rattan chairs of different colors.
People are resting.
A little.
Europeans.
It immediately catches your eye: well-groomed, fit, not a gay old man.
We walk along the beach towards the airfield runway. It is limited symbolically: by buoys on the water, so that kiters do not wind their kites around the airplane propeller, and by a sign on the shore.
After the runway section on the beach, the wild part begins, where you can lie on a towel.
The place is good and beautiful: opposite there are two islands. The sea is clear, but the northern part was windy that day, so there was some grass on the shore. Small waves. I recommend visiting.
Airplanes fly with propellers.
They take off about 300 meters from the beach. This is not in St. Martin, but there is also some kind of thrill here: there are not so many tourists running after every plane with cameras, everything is smooth and lazy. Like in the village.
I was the only one running with a camera.
Beaches in St. Barths
Didn't note that the first beach is called Baie de St Jean. The beach is good.
Long, but somehow cozy and homey.
It’s hard to understand that this is the center of the island - the airport, the football field, which was restored by Abramovich (his house is nearby) ...
By the way, the second point of our stay on the island of St. Barts was precisely that same football field: the Frenchman who rented out the car in Gustavia talked a lot about Roman Abramovich.
In the end he offered to come visit him and knock on the gate...
We didn’t find the house, but here is the football field:
Once again I’ll mention the Edem Rock Hotel that I really liked – it’s very beautiful. The staff is well-trained.
There are not many hotels on the island of St. Barths. There are mainly dachas, villas and long-term rental properties.
The property is beautiful and adapted to the mountainous terrain. During my trip around the island, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was in the Lake Como region of Italy - the style of roads and terrain, as well as the estates, were very similar
We drive further east along the roads of the island.
Roads are of good quality. The movement is energetic, just like the people inhabiting this island. We didn’t meet any Negrils in the wrecks, like in Saint Martin, who like to stand in the middle of the road and talk out of the window with their buddies. No public transport and minibuses. Everyone drives smoothly and quickly. Small sedans, mini convertibles, small jeeps, ATVs and buggies.
The quality of the roads is excellent, I’m very pleased with the absence of speed bumps - an asshole invention, which is abundantly represented in neighboring Saint Martin.
Next beach on the way Anse de Grand Cul de Sac I did not like. Although it was recommended by a Frenchman. It is possible that the surf was to blame as it was blowing today North wind and a lot of grass washed up on the shore, so that the water took on a brown tint.
But the restaurant on the beach was good, as was the maha-maha tartare. It’s strange, I thought it was a Tahitian fennec fish, or exported from other French territories or found in the Caribbean Sea, but the fish was not frozen. Fresh.
The list of my favorite beaches begins. After a trip to St. Barths, the beach in San Blas (Panama) became dark. But first we come to a place that is incomprehensible at first glance called Anse de Grande Saline. Saline - so in French Provence called estuaries. There are a couple of salt lakes in this place. Next to the parking lot. I don’t understand the humor and I want to turn around and leave.
But.
Path and sign “to be afraid”. We walk along the path, climb up the stones and think out loud: what if there is homosexuality and naked ass like in Saint Martin?
What should we do, let's go back...
A piece of a picture with a turquoise sea is shown. People. There are people on the beach.
- Look, are there any naked ones?
- Hooray! Ordinary sunbathers on the beach
The beach is good.
It’s wild: everyone brings what they need: umbrellas, chairs...
But the bulk lies on towels. The beach is wide and there is enough space for everyone to enjoy the sea and sun
The sand is clean. Water... The water is so... Something special. She envelops your body. She caresses. It is so soft that it is simply pleasant to lie in it. The water is clear and turquoise. Rare and solid waves.
I call the waves solid when they don’t flicker and don’t hit you in the mug when you swim breaststroke from the shore. They allow you to climb on top of yourself and slide down. They cradle and rock so that you can just fall asleep in their arms
It reminds me of the early one in Thailand, until I wrote about it and this information was published in Lonely Planet and after that a massive invasion of the Chinese began and, accordingly, all the hippie-savage charm of this place disappeared...
Very a good place. I highly recommend visiting.
Beach number 2 in my rating
Next clockwise in the direction of travel around the island of St. Barths, Gouverneur beach
This is a special beach. Small, homely, surrounded on all sides by mountains. There are about 10 villas on the mountain slopes, including Abramovich's estate, and that's it.
The water is so pure that I can easily compare it to the water in a swimming pool. Entering the water is pleasant, immediately deep. The bottom is visible to the naked eye: the water is so clear that when swimming you can see fish below, 7 meters below you. There are almost no waves.
People relax on towels or sun loungers they brought with them. Very calm and quiet. There are no screaming children with their mothers, no crowds taking pictures. Very similar to earlier Koh Lipe, again. People read, sunbathe, swim
The beach is clean. Perhaps the reason for this is the message when entering the beaches of the southern part of the island of St. Barths not to shit at home. Empty soda cans hang on the board below the call. They are used as ashtrays on the beach, and when they leave, they are hung back. This is the first time I've seen this and I really like it. People here understand that they have been vacationing here for many years, as well as their children and grandchildren, so everything is in order with cleanliness here
The result of seven hours spent on St. Barths: during this time you can really explore the island and find your place on this beautiful and calm piece of land, which seems to be nothing special: bushes and cacti on the mountain slopes.
For this you will need a means of transportation because you can’t do anything on foot, although a taxi is possible, but I’m used to driving myself:
The rental is located at the end of the marina, on the second street from it. There's a car wrecking shop nearby, you can't go wrong. The island is small, everything is nearby and very compact. During the trip, 5 liters of gasoline were consumed, which was calculated at 1 euro. The total cost of the trip was 53 euros. I consider it a normal price to pay for the pleasure of exploring new lands and beaches.
I'm starting to think that I'm not like that bad option for independent travelers to explore new lands.
//estay.livejournal.com
General
Saint Barthelemy, or simply Saint Barth, is an island in the Caribbean region that belongs to the Overseas Territories of France. The island of millionaires, even billionaires, accomplished individuals. The low percentage of indigenous people to newly settled residents, as well as the high standard of living, makes living on this island comfortable. But on one condition - if you are willing to pay exorbitant amounts of money to maintain your properties, yachts and sometimes even personal aircraft.
How to get there.
First you need to fly to the island of Saint Martin. They fly there from Paris, Amsterdam and from a bunch of American cities. Make sure you have a French Overseas Territories Visa.
The two popular modes of transport for mere mortals from Saint Martin to Saint Barths are by sea and by air. By water cheaply and quickly on the Voyager 3 Dreamliner catamaran: http://www.voy12.com/en/bate aux.php
Departs from Marigot on the Island of Saint Martin at 09.15, arrives at the port of Guadeloupe (Saint Barth) at 10.30 This pleasure costs 72 Euros in both directions. Departures back at 17.45, arriving in 45 minutes. You can buy tickets online or simply book by phone and pay both ways upon arrival at the port.
Photo from their website // www.voy12.com
By air, on DHC-6 Twin otter aircraft of WinAir, it costs 215 dollars round trip.
Takeoff from St. Gustav Airport // estay.livejournal.com
Departure from Princess Julianne Airport (Saint Martin), arrival at St. Gustav Airport. I don’t know the schedule, you can look on the website.
Arrival
From a distance, the island is just a mountain, although surrounded by beautiful palm trees, white sand, turquoise water and dotted with red roofs of elite households. When arriving on the island, you must reserve a car in advance. Otherwise, at the rental office seaport There may be no cars. This is the story we got ourselves into: the tourists took the last car right in front of our noses.
View of the embankment // estay.livejournal.com
We caught a taxi, and after finding out where another car rental office was located, we headed towards the local St. Gustav airport. Across the road from the terminal is Hertz, there isn't much choice, but we found a BMW 1 Series for 90 euros with insurance.
Our convertible car // estay.livejournal.com
spotting
The first thing we did was find the end of the airport and start filming the planes taking off. From the far end of the airport, facing the sea, there is a beautiful view of the airport. Attention: the airport area is not fenced and there is not even a zone beyond which you can enter. The only sign says that planes take off here and everything is at your own peril and risk.
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Taking off and landing planes right above your heads, this is not Saint Martin, but it has its own thrill:
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Beach
The beaches in Saint Barth are very beautiful and clean. Take photos directly to your desktop:
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Dinner
Having googled about the Eden's Rock restaurant before leaving, we headed to it. The restaurant is chic, I think the prices are adequate for the island, and the taste is simply, as they say, “amazing.”
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At the end, when the summer camp is full of people, the waiter and the senior man come up and ask if they liked everything. The waiters are well-trained and neat. Lunch for 4 for 200 Euro is justified!
Further trip, a little spotting
The view from the top of the hill is magnificent // estay.livejournal.com
