Island in the Caribbean, French Overseas Territory: Saint Barthes Island
Saint Barth or completely Saint Barthelemy| Saint Barthelemy - who makes fun of the French: Saint Barthelemy
Saint Barth Island in the Caribbean Sea.
Beaches on Saint Barth.
Photos of Saint Barth.
Review of Saint Barthes isolated from the topic
Small island 28 km south of the island Saint Martin(Saint Martin), which is the gateway to this paradise island as a small airport Gustavia(the capital of Saint Barth) 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 visiting card of the city: the "stuck birds" fountain
This is a view of Marigot from the embankment.
At the bottom shopping center, everything is very beautiful in style.
Tickets to Saint Barth
A round-trip ticket from Saint-Martin to Saint-Barth costs $ 80 if booked in advance by phone with Voyager: http://www.voy12.com
Travel time is 1 hour 15 minutes.
Ferry: brand new catamaran with two air-conditioned saloons and two open decks (upper and lower).
The ferry makes several flights a day. The schedule is on the website
Saint Barth In the morning, the first flight from Saint Martin at 9:15
In the evening, last from the island of Saint Barth at 17:00 From Philipsburg ferries also run, but smaller in size, older in age and not catamarans.
It will pump more strongly in the sea.
Saint Barth There is another carrier company from Marigot: West indian co, but the steamer is old and will be chatting 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 left the car in the free parking in the Marina Fort Louis area - there are several of them and there are always places.
- Bought tickets: I paid $ 80 for a round trip ticket (all taxes are included)
- Then we went through passport control (the same French overseas visa is valid on Saint Barthe as on Saint Martin) and boarded the catamaran.
The ferry departs from the coast and goes around the entire western part of the island, 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... Small and pretty town.
Very similar to any town French Riviera France or the northern lakes of Italy: straight streets going uphill and three avenues parallel to the marina (a place for mooring and anchorage of expensive yachts).
I turned down about Gustavia: the island itself is miniature, like everyone else here.
Gustavia is the capital of Saint Barth
The first thing that catches your eye: the abundance of shops and boutiques of expensive brands. Electric cars and buggies, Mini convertibles and good looking people.
There are very few blacks.
The bulk of the inhabitants are Americans, Europeans, and they say Russians.
After Roman Abramovich built an orphanage here on a plot of several hectares in the area of Gouverner Beach (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 here.
Let's go a little lost, because there is no information about this island other than the idiotic essays of travel agencies and some ladies in search of glamor.
We walk along the road along the marina where beautiful and expensive yachts stand and we come across Rent Car.
Rent a car in Saint Barts
Finding it is not difficult:
Leaving the ferry and turning right, walk along Rue de la Republique and continue along Rue de General de Gaulle.
Past good shops with expensive watches, costumes, jewelry ...
After crossing the rue de Lafayette you will see ATVs and buggies standing.
The Rent Car sign is invisible, but you won't miss the office.
What can be rented: ATV or our ATV. I even see bugs, like in my dacha in the garage, only blue. You can take a scooter. Or a car. Since it is raining, we decide to take the car. A small Hyundai on the machine for a day costs 48 euros. To rent you need a driver's license and a bank card. A deposit of 1000 euros freezes on it, which is immediately returned to the account when the car is returned. We are on wheels.
We have a map of the island and markings made by the owner of the office: what to see on Saint-Barth.
Saint Barth airport
The first point we have is the airport: the top point from which it is visible at a glance and you can watch the planes take off and land is on the first roundabout after leaving the city to the north, towards the village of Flamands
We stop and I take several shots: below us is a green valley with a crossed out gray line of the landing strip abutting the yellow spot of the beach, and further ... further the blue of the sea merging with the blue sky at that distant point, which is called the horizon ...
Very beautiful.
I recommend to visit.
Hotel on Saint Barth
Then we go down, past the tiny airport, the road turns to the right and there will be a parking lot on the right where you can park your car and then walk along the fence that encloses the runway territory to go to the beach. But we drive on and park in the parking lot at the hotel-restaurant Eden rock
Well, just a very nice restaurant and hotel.
While I'm digging, opening the door of a car 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 close the car and leave the keys in the ignition.
We leave along the path made of deck flooring to the beach: beauty. White sand, shallow azure sea and sections of villas facing the sea. The sections are not limited by anything, just rattan chairs of different colors.
People are resting.
A little.
Europeans.
Immediately striking: well-groomed, fit, not old-fashioned homosexual.
We pass along the beach towards the runway of the airfield. It is limited symbolically: buoys on the water, so that kiters do not wind their kites on the propeller of the aircraft and a sign on the shore.
After the section of the runway on the beach, its wild part begins, where you can roll on a towel.
The place is nice and beautiful: there are two islands opposite. The sea is clean, but the northern part was windy that day, so there was a little grass on the shore. Small waves. I recommend to visit.
Aircraft fly propeller driven.
Take off somewhere in 300 meters from the beach. This is not in St. Martin, but there is also some kind of thrill: there is not that number of tourists running around with cameras behind every plane, everything is smooth and lazy. As in the village.
I was the only one running around with a camera.
Beaches on Saint Barth
Didn't mention that the first beach is called Baie de st jean... The beach is good.
Long, but somehow cozy at home.
You hardly understand that this is the center of the island - the airport, the football field, which Abramovich restored (his house is nearby) ...
By the way, the second point of our stay on the island of Saint Barth is exactly the same football field: the Frenchman who rented a car in Gustavia talked a lot about Roman Abramovich.
At the end he offered to come and visit him and knock on the gate ...
We did not find the house, but the football field is here:
I will once again mention the hotel Edem Rock, which I liked very much - very beautiful. The staff is well trained.
There are not many hotels on the island of Saint Barth. Mainly there are summer cottages, villas and long-term rentals.
The property is beautiful and adapted to the mountainous terrain. During a trip around the island, I did not leave the feeling that I was in the area of Lake Como in Italy - the style of the roads and the relief, as well as the estate, was very similar
We drive further east along the roads of the island.
Good quality roads. The movement is energetic, as are the people inhabiting this island. We didn’t meet negril on the wrecks, as on Saint Martin, who like to stand in the middle of the road and pobazarit from the window with homies. There is no public transport or minibuses. Everyone drives smoothly and quickly. Small sedans, convertible minis, small jeeps, ATVs and buggies.
The quality of the roads is excellent, the absence of speed bumps is very pleasing - a stupid invention, which is abundantly presented on the neighboring Saint Martin.
The next beach along the way Anse de Grand Cul de Sac I did not like. Although recommended by a Frenchman. It is possible that the surf was to blame, as today the north wind was blowing and a lot of grass washed up to the shore, so that the water took on a brown tint.
But the restaurant on the beach was not bad, as was the maha maha tartare. Strange, I thought it was a Tahitian fennec, or exported from other French territories or in the Caribbean, it is found, but the fish was not frozen. Freshak.
The top of my favorite beaches begins. After a trip to Saint Barth, the beach in San Blas (Panama) has faded. But first, we arrive at a place that is incomprehensible at first glance by name Anse de grande saline... Saline - this is how estuaries are called in French Provence. There are a couple of salt lakes in this place. Close to parking. I don't understand humor and I want to turn around and leave.
But.
Path and signpost "to be afraid". We walk along the path, we climb up the stones and thoughts are in the ear: what if there are homosexuals and naked ones like on Saint Martin?
What to do, let's go back ...
A slice of a picture with a turquoise sea is shown. People. There are people on the beach.
- Look, are there any nude ones?
- Hooray! On the beach, ordinary sunbathers
The beach is good.
He is wild: everyone brings something to their liking: umbrellas, armchairs ...
But the bulk is lying on the towels. The beach is wide and there is enough space for everyone to enjoy the sea and the sun
The sand is clean. Water ... Water is so ... Something special. It envelops your body. She caresses. It is so soft that it is just pleasant to lie in it. The water is clear and turquoise. Rare and solid waves.
I call the waves solid when they do not flicker and do not hit your mug when you breaststroke from the shore. They allow you to climb up and slide down. They lull and rock so that you can just fall asleep in their arms
It reminds me of early in Thailand, until I wrote about him and this information was published in Lonely Planet and after that a massive invasion of the Chinese began and, accordingly, all the hippar-savage charm of this place disappeared ...
Very a good place... I highly recommend visiting.
Beach number 2 in my rating
Following clockwise in the direction of travel around the Isle of Saint Barth, Gouverneur beach
This is a special beach. Small, homely, surrounded by mountains on all sides. There are about 10 villas on the slopes of the mountains, including Abramovich's estate, and that's all.
The water is so clean that I can safely compare it to pool water. Entry into the water is pleasant, immediately deep. The bottom is visible with the naked eye: the water is so clear that when swimming you see fish below, about 7 meters below you. There are almost no waves.
People are resting on towels or sun loungers brought with them. Very calm and quiet. There are no screeching kids with moms, no crowds taking pictures. Very similar to earlier Ko Lipe, again. The people read, sunbathe, bathe
The beach is clean. Perhaps the reason for this is the appeal when entering the beaches of the southern part of the island of Saint Barth not to shit at home. Empty soda cans hang on the tablet below the call. They are used as ashtrays on the beach, and when they leave, they are hung in place. This is the first time I see it and I really like it. People here understand that they have been resting here for more than one year, as well as their children and grandchildren, so everything is in order here with cleanliness.
The result of seven hours spent on Saint-Barth: during this time it is really possible to explore the island and find your places on this beautiful and calm area of land, which seems to be nothing special: bushes and cacti on the slopes of the mountains.
To do this, you will need a means of transportation, because you can't catch anything on foot, although a taxi is possible, but I'm used to driving myself:
The rental car is located at the end of the marina, on the second street from it. Nearby car disassembly, you can't go wrong. The island is small, everything is close by and very compact. For 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 payment for the pleasure of exploring new lands and beaches.
I’m starting to think that it’s not such a bad option for independent travelers to explore new lands.
There are not so many elite islands on the planet, and one of them is Saint Barthélemy. The mighty of this world have chosen a paradise for overseas residences, an exotic pastime, a luxurious vacation. Why? Elementary: the divine Caribbean island is truly the embodiment of Eden on Earth.
Saint Barthélemy on the map
The island of Saint Barthélemy on the world map or a detailed map of the island can be viewed using the navigation buttons (+/-).
Often the name Saint Barthélemy is shortened to Saint Barth or Saint Barts. An extraordinary curl of the West Indies is located in the northern region of the Windward Islands, belongs to France. Guadeloupe is located 200 km to the south, less than 20 km to another Caribbean neighbor.
A rocky coastline with stripes of beaches washed by the Caribbean Sea. The maximum level above the water surface is 286 meters, the territory of the privileged section of the Caribbean is only 21 km², the administrative center is locality Gustavia.
Speaking of any type of vacation on St. Barts, you can safely add the super prefix, since vacationers here are special. However, some celebrities cannot be called guests - they are the owners of private property. For a simple tourist, the path to Saint Barthélemy is a thorny one. First of all, because of the crazy prices for everything and everyone. Plus, it is not so easy to decide on accommodation, since the booking process is complicated, costly both in terms of money (well, there are no budget hotels, no), and in terms of time. So the "unfortunate" moneybags have to acquire overseas square meters of exotic things, so that at the first "I want" to materialize on the coveted island.
How do the chosen ones rest? It only depends on their desires. In theory, the whole mix is a la Caribbean: golf, horseback riding on thoroughbred trotters, weekends on multi-meter beautiful yachts, underwater fishing or diving with equipment that costs more than the price of a car, topless sunbathing, bliss in gentle waves. Of course, the service is top-class: if restaurants, then exquisite, if boutiques, then branded, if service, then well-trained.
Modern millionaires know a lot about rest, and therefore strive for virgin nature. In an ecologically clean region there are no industrial plants, the Caribbean Sea is the cleanest, the vegetation is rich, there are a lot of untouched corners.
No one on their own initiative has the right to build up, the potential owner receives permission only after long, sometimes dragging on for years, negotiations. But the result is worth it: the unique ecosystem is safe and sound. And the appearance of Saint Barthélemy only benefits from prudent exactingness - the beaches are not fenced, even if they approach the very gates of the residences, none of the luxurious mansions towers over the palm trees, the island is literally buried in bright greenery.
Although there are no freshwater bodies, the vegetation is diverse, from original cacti and flowering shrubs to spreading giant palms, fruit groves, lush forests.
A voyage to Saint Barth is not to listen to an opera tenor or go to a museum - this land is just for relaxation. Therefore, there are no special sights on it, unless, of course, the owners of the mansions themselves and their guests are considered as such. Here are just a few:
- Rockefeller... A sort of pioneer who has rebuilt a mini-kingdom in the northwestern part of the coast. Actually, in honor of him, since then, the town has been called Rockefeller.
- Rothschild... He designed the residence somewhat later than his predecessor, and on the opposite coast.
- Fords... Yes, yes, the same ones. Of the billionaires.
- Rudolf Nureyev... The first defector from the USSR, who settled on the fabulous shore. At home, he was enrolled in the shameful "defectors", but this, as they say, is a different story. By the way, the great dancer is no longer alive, and the estate has changed owners, but it is still proudly called "La maison de Noureev".
- Sylvester Stalonne... Cool Rambo owns several plots of land.
- Roman Abramovich... That's right, why bother with the reservation every time, since you can have your own "scrap", which cost 90 million American rubles, where there was a place for swimming pools, tennis courts, dining and dancing areas. And the guests at the hospitable Roman were noticed eminent: Milner, Pozner, Yumashev with Dyachenko, Shvidler, etc.
Eden Rock Cape Show business stars, politicians, actresses, titled athletes, bankers, businessmen, offspring of royal blood ... And yet there are a few classic attractions: churches, a dilapidated fort, the village of Corossol, Cape Eden Rock, the shell beach, Shell beach, airport with a mega short runway.
When is the best time to go to Saint Barthélemy
The temperature fluctuates little throughout the year, averaging about 26˚. The sea is tenderly warm both in summer and in the Caribbean in winter. The most visited period is from December to April.
All the most-the-most-most - nature, service, rest, entertainment. Dream? Perhaps, however, for some it has already become a West Indian reality called Saint Barthélemy. Even with a grain of snobbery ...
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From St. Petersburg to Saint Barthélemy, it is also cheaper and the fastest to fly with Vinair and Air France: a trip through the French capital lasts from 16 hours and costs from 1000 EUR one way.
Find flights to Saint Barthélemy
Transport Saint Barthélemy
There is no public transport on Saint Barthélemy. You can only get around the island by taxi. Parking lots are located at Gustav III Airport and in Gustavia, you can call a car by phone. A trip from the airport to the capital costs 25 EUR, to Grand Cu de Sac - 40 EUR, at nights and on weekends the fares are increased by 50%. For lack of an alternative, tourists often ask taxi drivers to act as guides: the cost of a sightseeing trip around the surroundings with the driver's comments 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 on Saint-Barth it is a little tough, but with water things are a little better. Speedboats leave for 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 contemplating 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 on Saint Barthélemy is not an optional luxury, but a vital necessity: endless taxi rides will ruin even the wealthiest tourist, and you can't go around the whole island on foot. Distributors' offices are concentrated at the airport; you can book a car at the hotel as well: it will be brought right to the entrance without any problems. Both local (Maurice, Gumbs) and international (Budget, Hertz, Avis, Europcar) offices operate in Saint-Bart. The rental price 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 in the area of Lorian beach, both are closed on Sundays.
An alternative to a car is a scooter: the rental price is from 30 EUR per day, depending on the season.
Driving on Saint Barthe is an interesting experience: the roads are narrow, winding, with sudden sharp turns. The maximum permissible speed is 50 km / h. Traffic in the vicinity of the airport and Gustavia can be heavy, but it doesn't get into serious traffic jams. Parking is free everywhere, you can leave your car in almost any convenient place, with the exception of the central capital harbor: it is allowed to stand there for no more than 2 hours in a row.
Connectivity and Wi-Fi
The quality of mobile communications on Saint Barthélemy is excellent, but the providers are quite expensive and the connection takes time. The largest operators are 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 cell phone shops at a gas station near the airport and in Gustavia will help you to understand the intricacies.
For international calls, you need a SIM card from one of the operators. For example, Dauphin Telecom has tariffs that can be connected without a contract: the cost is 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 on Saint Barth. It is more convenient to call abroad from the second: cards of various denominations are sold in post offices, tobacco and newsstands, and at gas stations. Free Wi-Fi is 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) at a cost of 5 EUR.
Saint Barthélemy Accommodation
Hotels on Saint Barth are more than comfortable, with impeccable service and a wide range of additional services. Accommodation for the most discerning taste can be found in Gustavia and in all other parts of the island. Most of the hotels (there are about 30 of them here) are small and cozy, aimed at wealthy tourists. Villas and bungalows with private gardens and pools, set at the foot of picturesque hills or right on the beaches, are very popular. Almost all of them are rented for at least a week (in high season - for two).
Mains voltage - 220 V, sockets - French (type E), not requiring an adapter.
Rest on the luxurious Saint-Barthes requires serious capital investments: they have never heard of hostels and campgrounds here. The cheapest accommodation is offered by hotels without "stars" in Gustavia: from 310 EUR per day for a double room with a sea view. Rates in luxury "five" 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, how much too much): rooms in "starless" hotels - from 350 EUR, in 5 * - from 650 EUR per day.
Money
The country's monetary unit is Euro (EUR), in 1 euro 100 euro cents. Current rate: 1 EUR = 69.88 RUB.
Since 2002, the official currency of Saint Barthélemy has been 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, Saturday - until noon, Sunday is a day off. Currency exchange offices are open all week from 9:00 to 18:00, some exchangers near banks are open around the clock. Hotels offer the least favorable rate, so it is better to look for a bank branch nearby.
Credit cards Visa, Cirrus and MasterCard are in use almost everywhere, but there are still establishments where you can pay only in cash. There are many ATMs on the island, cash is issued only in euros. It is beneficial to use traveller's checks in dollars and euros on Saint-Barth: in some shops their owners are given a 20% discount. Tipping (10%) in most restaurants is included in the bill automatically, in other cases the staff relies on the generosity of the customers. In a taxi, you can take change without a twinge of conscience: the prices are such that there is enough for tea.
How to avoid problems
Saint Barthélemy is the safest place in the Caribbean with a consistently low crime rate. 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 pier of Gustavia and nearby attractions, so you should remain vigilant and keep your wallet, documents and valuables under supervision. Moreover, safes are not equipped in all hotels: you have to rely only on yourself. But almost no one locks the cars here: it is almost impossible to steal them from the island.
Poisonous Mancinella trees grow at the resort: touching their leaves or fruits, you can get a serious burn. For the peace of mind of tourists, locals mark them with red paint.
You do not need to be vaccinated before traveling to Saint Barth. Centipedes and mosquitoes that carry dengue fever pose some health risks. Most villas and hotels use the services of specialized companies that treat the area from insects, but it is better to play it safe and take repellents with you. You can't do without a protective cream at all: jokes are bad with the scorching tropical sun. Caution will not hurt in the water: at depths there are fire corals of yellow-red color, leaving severe burns in contact with the skin. Jellyfish are rare guests off the coast of Saint-Barth, but if an unpleasant meeting does happen, it is enough to rub the affected area with fine sand.
The beaches of Saint Barthélemy
Saint Barthélemy is ideal for beach holiday: the waters of the Caribbean Sea delight with cleanliness, landscapes - with photogenicity, and the coast - with well-groomed. The shores are predominantly rocky, surrounded by small islets and coral reefs, but there are also sandy areas, to varying degrees, occupied by spoiled holidaymakers. All recreation areas are municipal, free, but the entertainment infrastructure is far from being established everywhere.
The most beautiful beach in the south is Salin with white sand and turquoise sea. The way here is already a pleasure: you have to get there along a picturesque path winding among the rocks. There are practically no amenities, umbrellas and sun loungers - too: nothing interferes with the unity with the magnificent nature. After soaking up the sun, you can “catch” a wave (they are sometimes quite impressive here) or dine in one of the nearby restaurants.
The coast of Shell Beach is covered not with sand, but with small seashells.
The most popular beaches are concentrated in Gustavia and Saint-Jean, with hotels, restaurants, facilities and sports equipment rentals. For families with kids, the capital's Shell Beach is good with a gentle, which means absolutely safe entry into the water. During the day you can hide from the burning sun under a canopy or palm tree, 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 on St. Barth are the least likely to come here.
Swimming is prohibited in the Gran-Fond bay: underwater boulders and corals can seriously injure. Beginner windsurfers flock to Grand Cue de Sac: it's easy to learn to stand on a board in a coral-sheltered bay. It is better for professionals to go to Flaman: local waves are conquered only by masters. For fans of solitude, we recommend Gouverner Beach: here you can not only sunbathe in silence, but also look for legendary pirate treasures.
Diving
The main entertainment on Saint Barthélemy is associated with the sea: diving in the Caribbean waters (as well as fishing, catching a wave, cutting on catamarans, and just swimming) is a sheer pleasure. The beach of Marigot is perfect for diving - a cozy bay with amazingly beautiful underwater landscapes. Novice 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. Flocks of tropical fish are found near Gouverner Beach, turtles, stingrays and moonfish can be found on Petit-Cui-de-Sac, and even crawfish and sharks at night. Pelicans have also chosen this quiet lagoon: they fish, teach their little ones to fly and are not in the least afraid of curious tourists.
There are several diving clubs in the capital and on the Grand Cue de Sac, offering diving with an instructor for 70-80 EUR.
The main audience for Colombier Beach is scuba divers scaring stingrays and sea turtles. And the most breathtaking views open up in the waters of the marine reserve, marked with 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 shopaholics with experience: the sellers know this and create all the conditions for a comfortable throwing of money. Gustavia and Saint-Jean are home to luxury boutiques of famous designers: it is quite possible to 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 fashionable salons of the level of Louis Vuitton and Cartier. The creations of Chanel, Hermes, Gucci and Prada are best bought in the multi-brand Laurent Effel, which is in no way inferior to the Milan and Parisian stores. There are also duty-free points in Saint Barthélemy with a decent assortment of cigars, perfumes, clothes and elite alcohol. By the way, about alcohol: it's better to taste and buy it in Absolutely Wine, opened by a famous sommelier.
Prices in Saint-Jean are slightly lower than in Gustavia.
The most popular souvenirs from Saint Barth are wickerwork (especially straw hats, beach bags and fans), paintings of idyllic landscapes and jewelry made from seashells. They are sold in colorful shops scattered throughout the island, as well as in the market in Gustavia. The shops are open on weekdays - 9: 00-18: 00 (from 12:00 to 14: 00-15: 00 everything is closed for lunch), on Saturdays - 9: 00-13: 00, Sunday is a day off. Duty free points are open longer: until 19: 00-20: 00.
Cuisine and restaurants of Saint Barthélemy
The cuisine of Saint Barthélemy resembles French, only with Creole and African notes and island flavor. Fish and seafood are actively used here, but meat is not forgotten either. The main delicacies of it are the wild goat "gut-colombo" fried in hot spices, ragout from the rabbit with vegetables, and for the most daring - the blood sausage "boudin". Poultry is also held in high esteem: tender turkey or chicken with rice and exotic roast pigeons are a must.
Seafood is a different story: they are cooked deliciously at the resort. Gourmets should pamper themselves with stuffed otarne crab, boiled shatru octopus, crab meat in matutu de coabes white wine, Creole fish stew, lobster brioches and spicy clam broth. The most outlandish treats - sea urchins, red snapper and turtle soup. The best tropical dessert is, of course, fruits: salads and fresh papaya, guava, passionfruit, pineapple and tangerine.
Alcohol is not produced on Saint-Barth, but this is more than compensated for by a variety of elite wines from around the world.
The choice of fashionable restaurants is huge, with talented chefs working tirelessly to serve local, French, Mexican, Indian and Chinese cuisines. The most popular establishments are concentrated on the seaside, but delicious food can be found 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 audience moves to trendy nightclubs.
Entertainment and attractions
The main historical sights of Saint Barthélemy are located in Gustavia. The most impressive are the Swedish defensive complexes: guardhouses, ammunition depots and other structures have been preserved in the ancient forts of Gustav and Karl. Architecturally of interest are the Governor's House and the presbytery dating back to the 18-19th centuries. The center of local religious life is the Anglican Episcopal Church: a neat structure 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 buoy will be a special pleasure.
There are also museums on Saint Barthélemy: 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 Ingénu-Magras gallery is open with shells, corals, stars and other exhibits raised from the depths of the sea. Outside Gustavia, the village of Lorian is worth visiting, where French settlers first settled: the neat streets and the old Catholic church seem to return to the distant past. Authentic settlements have been partially preserved in Corossola. And on the Morne du Vite mountain is equipped observation deck with the most impressive panorama on the island.
Holidays and events of Saint Barthélemy
The festive atmosphere reigns in Saint-Barth all year round, but there are, of course, events celebrated on a special scale. First on their list is Catholic Christmas and New Year: wealthy people from all over the world come to Caribbean Saint-Tropez to go out in big style. May 27 celebrate the Day of the abolition of slavery, July 14 - Bastille Day.
But the most advanced public occupies Saint Barthélemy at the time of the festivals for which the island is famous. The main musical event is the January jazz and classical music festival lasting two weeks. World-class stars do not perform in concert halls that are sore, 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 Saint Barth with the sounds of reggae, salsa and folk Creole motives. And April is marked by cinema: famous directors showcase their films and give master classes at the 1996 Caribbean Film Festival.
Travel Notes Day 20This time, the report contains as many as 60 photographs, do not swear, I know, I had to split it into 2 parts.
There was once an island in the ocean, Saint Barthélemy. An ordinary little volcanic island, butt of the world, there was nothing on it. But the island was lucky: in 1957, David Rockefeller (the grandson of that same Rockefeller) acquired two plots of land on Saint Barthélemy. Following the banker, the Rothschilds, Fords and other famous rich people were drawn to the island. So the island became a vacation spot for millionaires. Good restaurants, high-end shopping, clubs, luxury hotels, security, what else do you need? The Russians have recently chosen the island. It all started with the fact that in 2009 Roman Abramovich bought the house of David Rockefeller. Well, then all the friends pulled up.
At Saint Bart's airport, stacks of glossy magazines lie at the exit. The magazine is in Russian. It is published in St. Petersburg, the editor-in-chief is a certain Yana Tolstikhina. The magazine oozes glamor, my hands are still sticky. As it is written in the presentation, it is for those "who know a lot about exclusive vacations." In general, "a solid holiday for wealthy gentlemen." The magazine says that on the island you need to swim, go to expensive restaurants, buy jewelry and clothes, go to spa treatments and be sure to visit all Russian parties in the most expensive clubs. The magazine has some funny interviews in the style of girlish questionnaires in the fifth grade: "What is your favorite restaurant for dinner, what is your favorite hotel, what is your favorite spa." In general, it is immediately clear that there is something to do on the island.
"The island is shaped like a heart, and the atmosphere, in my personal perception, is saturated with love, harmony and happiness."- writes Yana. This magazine is not in vain when you leave the Airport. He makes the traveler the best way possible to understand that this is the most glamorous island in the Caribbean. Better than any guidebook.
01. When approaching the island, huge yachts are immediately striking. 
02. In general, in yachts, I don't really understand why 2 helipads are needed? Probably, if you yourself have a helicopter, and here your friend Maxim Katz wants to fly to you in his helicopter? By the way, I have never seen a helicopter at all these sites. In general, while yachts remain a mystery to me. 
03. Yachts are simpler 
04. The island itself is rocky, there are not many beaches. 
05. There are no reefs around the island, so the waves on the beaches are big. 
06. Pay attention to the houses. You can't build what you want here. All houses must be coordinated. The color of the roof is either red, or light green, or brown. That's it, there are no more options. They say there is a law prohibiting building houses taller than a palm tree. But I heard this story both about Marrakesh and about Bali. Not sure if it's true. 
07. But overall, orderly architecture is very good for an island like this. Everything is in order, everything is very neat and nice. Especially when you consider what kind of people are building houses here. Otherwise, give free rein, they will set up gypsy villages here, as in Romania. 
08. Another beach. 
09. The airport on Saint Barthélemy is small and accepts only corn workers, so the oligarchs leave all their business jets at the Saint Martin airport. 
10. There they change to such a corn plant and go on to the island! Fly 15 minutes. 
11. De Haviland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter) It is great for the short runway of Saint Barthélemy. 
12. Airport 
13. The plane comes in from behind a hill just above the road. 
Shot a video of the landing:
14.
15. In this case, the plane is still shaken by the wind) 
16. When landing, the plane flies directly towards the audience) 
17. And this is a view from the other end of the runway. In the background is a hill from where you can watch the landing. 
19. The end of the runway is right on the beach, no fences, sit down and take off. A spotter's paradise. 
20. Tourists are unloaded. 
21. The main street of the capital Gustavia. Only 2,000 people live in the capital. On the main street there are boutiques and restaurants. 
22. There is also a central yacht dock. 
23. City Hall 
24. As with the rest of the island, all buildings in the capital are built to exacting standards. 
25. Yachts 
26. Another yacht parking. Surely experienced readers will recognize here the yacht of some oligarch. 
27. And more yachts 
28. And more. Here it should be borne in mind that there is not enough parking space for everyone. So there are a lot of yachts at sea. 
29. Commoners who lacked space. 
30.
31. Views of the island 
32.
33. Contrary to my expectations, the island is pretty deserted. For this, many love him. 
34. There really are no houses higher than palm trees) Maybe there really is such a law. 
35. Villa. Renting a nice house can go up to € 100,000 per week. Not such, of course, as this one. It's small at all;) 
36. A very rare building on the island. Building permits are almost never issued. From the purchase of land to the start of construction, it can take 5 long years of approvals. Everything here is very strict with this, and money does not solve anything. 
37. Parking near one of the restaurants. The Mini Cooper is the most popular car on the island. It's all because of the very narrow mountain roads. The local rich may be happy to ride limousines or drive Ferraris, but there are no roads. 2 small cars can hardly be dispersed. 
38. Such electric cars and scooters are very popular. 
39. In Russia, the island became famous in 2009, when Roman Abramovich bought 70 acres of land behind the Gouverneur beach with bungalows located on it with ocean views, tennis courts, swimming pools, dance and dining pavilions. The deal was valued at nearly $ 90 million. Here is Abramovich's site. The buildings are all small and everything is buried in greenery, nothing is visible from the road. 
40. Here is a view from a helicopter. Here you can see that there are few buildings, nothing particularly luxurious. This land once belonged to David Rockefeller. All beaches are public by law. That is, even Abramovich cannot carve out even a meter of a public beach for himself. This is not Tkachev or Yakunin, who illegally seized access to the water with their dacha fences, here on Saint Barthélemy everyone is equal before the law. Wild people;) 
41. The gate to the Abramovich estate 
42. And here is a public beach right away. 
43. The beach is like a beach, nothing special. Behind the bushes, Abramovich's house 
44. Ordinary people come to swim. There are not even umbrellas with sun loungers on the beach. 
45. Here, last year, the famous photograph "Abramovich and his guests: Dyachenko with Yumashev, Pozner, Shvidler, Milner (in the foreground) was taken." 
46. It is customary to sunbathe topless on Saint Barthélemy. 
47. 
48. In general, all the beaches are about the same. I can't say that they are especially heavenly. We've seen better beaches. 
49. There are aluminum cans hanging in front of the beach entrance, these are ashtrays so that cigarette butts are not thrown into the sand. He took a jar for himself, then hung it in place on a hook. A very interesting idea. I have not seen this before. 
50. Another beach 
51. I also liked the idea with a fence. Such weaving is made with ordinary boards. An interesting and beautiful fence immediately turns out. Haven't seen this before. 
52. Another beach 
53.
54. Five-star hotel. 
55.
56. The Russians have arrived. Russians are always visible by their displeased face. An American walks - he has a smile from ear to ear, the French walk - his eyes shine, chatting about something. The Russians arrived, and on their face immediately: "What is this shit around ?!" Well, and another distinctive feature of Russian women: everyone should see the brand of clothing that you are wearing. The bigger and brighter the logo, the better. 
57. In general, I haven't seen so many Russians in one place for a long time. I went to a restaurant for lunch - all the tables were packed with compatriots. All homesickness disappears at once. How he returned to Moscow. Met Kudrin. 
58. Ladies 
59. We, ordinary people, have nothing to do on Saint Barthélemy. It's time to fly further from this glamor. 
The whole journey:
Day 1:
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General
Saint Barthélemy, or simply Saint Barth the island in The Caribbean, refers to the Overseas Territories of France. The island of millionaires, even billionaires, held personalities. The low percentage of indigenous people to the new settlers, as well as a high standard of living, makes living on this island comfortable. But on one condition - if you are willing to pay fabulous money to maintain your possessions, 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, Amtsterdam and from a bunch of American cities. Make sure you have a French Overseas Territories Visa.
There are two popular modes of transport for ordinary mortals from Saint Martin to Saint Barth by sea and air travel. Fast and cheap by water on the Voyager 3 Dreamliner catamaran: http://www.voy12.com/en/bate aux.php
Departures from Marigot on the Isle of Saint Martin at 09.15, arrives in the port of Guadeloupe (Saint Bart) at 10.30 This pleasure costs 72 Euro in both directions. Leaves back at 17.45, arrival in 45 minutes. You can buy tickets online or simply book by phone and pay in two directions upon arrival at the port.
Photo from their website // www.voy12.com
By air, on WinAir DHC-6 Twin otter aircraft, it costs $ 215 in both directions.
Takeoff from St. Gustav Airport // estay.livejournal.com
Departure from Princess Julianne Airport (Saint Martin), arrival at Saint Gustav Airport. I don’t know the schedule, you can look at the website.
Arrival
From a distance, the island is just a mountain, though surrounded by beautiful palm trees, white sand, turquoise water and covered with red roofs of elite households. Upon arrival on the island, it is necessary to book a car in advance. Otherwise, the rental office near the seaport may not have cars. We got into such a story: right in front of the tourists took the last car.
View of the embankment // estay.livejournal.com
We caught a taxi, and having previously found out where another car rental office is located, we moved towards the local airport of St. Gustav. Across the street from the terminal is Hertz, the choice is not great, but we found a BMW 1 Series for 90 euros with insurance.
Our convertible // estay.livejournal.com
Spotting
The first step was to find the end of the airport and began to take pictures of the planes taking off. From the far end of the airport, overlooking the sea, there is a beautiful view of the airport. Attention: the territory of the airport is not fenced off and there is not even a zone for entering. The only sign stating that planes take off here and everything is at your own peril and risk.
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Takeoff and landing of planes right overhead, this is not Saint Martin, but there is a thrill:
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Beach
The beaches on Saint Barthe are very beautiful and clean. Take photos directly to your desktop:
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Dinner
Googling before leaving about the restaurant Eden's Rock went to it. The restaurant is gorgeous, I think the prices for the island are adequate, and the taste is just as they say "awesome."
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At the end, with a full summer party, a waiter with an elder approaches the people and asks if they liked everything. The waiters are well-trained, tidy. Lunch for 4 for 200 Euro is justified!
Onward ride, a little spotting
The view from the top of the hill is magnificent // estay.livejournal.com
