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Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barth, has a rich history that spans centuries. It was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and became a French colony in the French West Indies in 1648. The island briefly fell under Swedish rule in the late 18th century but returned to French sovereignty in 1878. St. Barth faced economic struggles, but its transformation into an exclusive luxury destination began in the mid-20th century. Today, it remains a renowned and sought-after Caribbean destination, attracting visitors with its upscale ambiance, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture.
Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barth, is a small island located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. It is situated approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) southeast of St. Martin and 240 kilometers (150 miles) east of Puerto Rico. St. Barth is part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago and is considered one of the Leeward Islands. The island’s proximity to other popular Caribbean destinations is known for its luxury, beautiful beaches, upscale atmosphere, and excellent opportunities for water sports.
St. Barth enjoys a pleasant tropical climate typical of the Caribbean region. The average daytime temperatures range from around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) throughout the year. The island experiences a rainy season from May to November, with the highest chance of precipitation occurring in September and October. The dry season runs from December to April, when rainfall is less frequent. St. Barth is within the Atlantic hurricane belt, and the official hurricane season lasts from June to November, with the peak of activity typically between August and October. Despite this, the island is a fantastic destination to visit year-round, with warm water temperatures and refreshing trade winds adding to its allure.
St. Barth’s relies on rainwater and a desalination plant for its water supply. Due to limited resources, using bottled water for drinking and cooking is advised to conserve water during your stay. The island is also home to several beautiful natural pools, which are a must-visit for nature lovers.
The electricity in St. Barth operates at 220 volts. Most chargers for mobile phones, tablets, and laptops can handle both 110 and 220 volts, requiring only a small plug adapter for use. Please check the label on your charger to confirm its compatibility. If you’re unsure, we can assist you by checking and providing a plug adapter or voltage converter if needed. Enjoy a seamless charging experience during your stay!
Exercise caution when entering roundabouts on the island, as vehicles already in the circle have the right of way. In Gustavia, be aware that many parking spaces have a 90-minute time limit. Your rental car will be equipped with a blue parking-time indicator. Simply set the dial to the time you parked and place it on the dashboard. Keep in mind that the two gas stations, one by the airport and the other in Lorient, are closed during lunchtime and after 6 p.m. However, the pumps at the airport station accept credit cards even after-hours for your convenience. Plan accordingly for fueling up your vehicle during your stay. For those exploring beyond, consider using the St. Barths Commuter for convenient island hopping.
The official language of St. Barth is French, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas such as St. Jean, known for its beach bars and great restaurants, and Cul de Sac.
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency used on the island. Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases. In Gustavia, there are currency exchanges where you can convert cash or travelers checks into euros. Additionally, you can withdraw euros from the island’s ATMs using your U.S. bank card. Some shops also accept dollars, but be aware that the exchange rates they offer may differ significantly.
St. Barth is generally safe, but like any destination, it’s essential to be cautious and take standard travel precautions. Keep your belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
