Destination St-Barths: prepare your trip

Located in the Lesser Antilles, Saint Barthélemy island has a land area of nearly 10 square miles and is fringed with numerous white-sand beaches. St. Barts is inhabited by descendants of sailors from Normandy and Brittany who arrived in the 16th and 17th centuries. From its history, the island has preserved French traditions of quality living and its free-port status (tax free), which have helped it to earn a unique reputation in the Caribbean. Every winter, the island attracts artists and jet-setters from around the world. Despite this success, St. Barts has managed to keep its charm and authenticity.

The island has approximately 7,000 inhabitants.

Saint Barthélemy is a French island. Citizens of France, other European Union member countries and Switzerland only require an identity card for a stay of less than three months. A passport is, however, required to visit neighbouring islands.

For people from North America who wish to stay for less than three months, a valid passport with no tourist visa can be sufficient. For all other people, a valid passport and a visa issued by the French diplomatic authorities is required.

There are no compulsory vaccines.

For people travelling with an animal, a health record is required.

French is the island's official language, but English is also widely spoken.

The Euro is the official currency, but the US Dollar is accepted everywhere. International credit cards: Visa, Master-Card, Amex.

In relation to Paris: St. Barts is 6 hours behind during the summer and 5 hours during the winter.

In relation to New York: same time during the summer and 1 hour behind during the winter.

St. Barts has a dry tropical climate, with little variation in temperature (approximately 28°C during the winter and a little bit hotter during the summer). The sea temperature is 26°C during the winter and 29°C during the summer.

220 V / 60 Hz

Tap water is not potable, but mineral water can be purchased in all food shops.

To call mainland France, simply dial the relevant number. To call the United States, dial 00-1 followed by the State dialling code and the relevant number. To call Saint Martin (Dutch side) dial 00-599-54. For Saint Martin (French side), a call within the island or Guadeloupe, dial 0590 followed by the relevant number, or 0596 for Martinique.

Salines Garden provides a high-speed WiFi connection for guests.

The most famous brands from around the world jostle for position. Mainly located in the capital – Gustavia – fashion boutiques, jewellers and designers offer a host of chic ideas.