With so many islands in the Caribbean, there is a destination for all types of travelers, including honeymooners, scuba divers, and all-inclusive vacationers just to name a few. But when vacationers are looking for the feel of St. Tropez in the Caribbean sun, they jet over to St. Barth's. This delightful little island is the perfect destination for those seeking a tropical Francophile heaven. Step onto the island and you'll find yourself among French and other European families on holiday, well heeled Americans, movie stars and rock stars, and Russian Oligarchs with their entourage. These fashionable travelers are not heading to this out of the way eight mile hilly island for any tourist attraction. The attraction of this destination is the destination itself.
Upon arriving on St. Barth's you may first notice the clear blue and turquoise water, the colorful homes dotting the hills, the picturesque coves with boats anchored in the water, and of course the white sandy beaches. Keep in mind as you are looking at one spectacular view that the view behind you is probably just as beautiful, for the island coast is one quaint seascape after another.
Driving the hills and hairpin turns of St. Barth's, you may find yourself marveling at the locals and the regular visitors' driving skills. Many locals choose scooters to get around, and watching them zip around slower moving traffic through the hills while narrowly missing one hundred feet drop-offs, you may feel your heart racing. Dressed in the latest chic fashions and sunglasses, the men holding a cigarette in one hand and the women in heels, you may be tempted to say "ciao" if you catch their eye, but alas, this is a French speaking island.
After sunbathing European style on stunning beaches, swimming in the warm tropical waters, shopping at designer boutiques, or sailing the seas with yachts from all over the world, it is time to taste the local cuisine. This is when you realize you are in a very special place. Whether you're picking up chocolate croissants at a local patisserie, enjoying a lunch at a street side cafe, or treating yourself to a five course meal at a gourmet French restaurant you are in for a treat. Everything is fabulous. Maybe it's the ingredients, or maybe the French method of food preparation, but there is no denying it. The French know how to cook. The service is also fantastic. Add a little "Bon Jour" and "Merci" to your vocabulary and you'll be greeted with a smile. And since the French are used to lingering at mealtime, you will probably have to ask for the check. "Láddition,s'il vous plaît".
So put St. Barth's on your bucket list and experience the beauty of the French West Indies.
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