To best explore and experience all that St. Barts has to offer, you will want to rent a car. There is no public transportation on the island, no Uber or Lyft drivers, and very few taxis.
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The St Barts paradox is that luxury goods (e.g. Hermès bags, Cartier jewelry, Louis Vuitton suitcases) are tax-free, so about 20% cheaper than in the US or France. Yet, daily necessities, from fresh vegetables to house rents, are very expensive compared with the US.
The official currency of St Barts is the Euro but US Dollars are accepted universally with few exceptions. Credit cards are accepted at most establishments as well.
Barts ranks among the most expensive getaways on the planet. One reason is that everything from hats to hankies has to be shipped in, sometimes from places as far away as France. But the big reason is because the island caters to an upscale clientele who can afford things like $20,000-a-night stays in posh villas.
Many of the best places to stay in St Barts are set near the brilliant beaches of St Jean Bay or Grand Cul-de-Sac Bay, but some of our favourites are hidden on hillsides with panoramic ocean views.
Located on the leeward coast, at the western end of the island where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet, Colombier Beach, with its stretch of white sand lined with vegetation, is perhaps the most beautiful beach of St Barts and definitely worth the effort.
Get the party startedSt Barts has a wealth of enticing cocktail bars, live music venues and clubs to enjoy. Follow our St Barts nightlife guide and book your seat at one of the hottest tables on the island…
St. Barth is much more than just a tropical paradise. It's a unique cultural melting pot, with a rich history and fascinating traditions that make it truly one-of-a-kind. The charm extends to its lesser-known spots too, such as the quaint areas of Grand Fond and Anse de Grand.
Barts' official language is French, but English is fluently spoken. The official currency is the Euro, but American dollars are often accepted. Electricity is 220-240 volts - 50 hertz. Adapters for other voltages are provided in our villas and hotels.
While St Barts is smaller, chicer, and more geared towards couples, St Martin has much more variety and makes for an incredible family destination. That said, you can easily ferry between the two for day trips, which is why, for many, the decision ultimately comes down to which island is home to the villa they prefer.
The Russian billionaire appears to own at least one additional property in St. Barts that has not been previously reported. In 2009, Roman Abramovich paid a reported $90 million for his 70-acre estate on the Caribbean island of St. Barts, a French overseas territory.
The crime rate is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.