Practical information to help make your time on St. Barth easy, comfortable and memorable.
St. Barts is wonderfully easy to enjoy, but a little local knowledge goes a long way. Here are the essentials we think are most useful when planning your visit.
If you have been to St. Barts before, you know why you're returning. If this is your first visit, no island will ever compare.
St. Barts uses 230V / 60Hz electricity with European Type C and Type E plugs.
If your device is marked 100-240V, 50/60Hz, you generally need only a plug adapter. Appliances designed only for 120V require an appropriate voltage converter.
The official currency is the Euro (€ / EUR). U.S. dollars are commonly accepted by many businesses, but the exchange rate used by an individual merchant can vary.
Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available on the island. Using euros or a card with favorable foreign-transaction terms can simplify purchases.
St. Barts observes Atlantic Standard Time (UTC-4) year-round and does not change its clocks for Daylight Saving Time.
That means St. Barts matches U.S. Eastern Daylight Time during the summer months and is one hour ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time during the winter.
The international calling code for St. Barthélemy is +590.
Before traveling, check your U.S. carrier's international roaming options. Wi-Fi is common at villas, hotels and many businesses, and Wi-Fi calling can be useful when supported by your phone and carrier.
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side. Island roads can be narrow, steep and winding, so take your time and expect a very different driving experience from the mainland.
A rental car is one of the most practical ways to explore St. Barts. Conventional public transportation is not available and taxi service is limited.
For an emergency, keep these numbers handy:
The clear Caribbean waters around St. Barts make snorkeling and scuba diving popular ways to experience the island from another perspective.
If you plan to scuba dive, bring your current dive certification information and confirm requirements directly with your chosen dive operator.
St. Barts has a warm tropical maritime climate throughout the year. The Caribbean sun can be intense even when the breeze makes the temperature feel comfortable.
Bring high-SPF sunscreen, stay hydrated and plan for shade when spending extended time at the beach. Not every beach offers natural shade.
St. Barts style is relaxed and polished. Lightweight resort-casual clothing works well for most of the island, including many restaurants.
Beachwear is best kept to the beach or pool. For evenings, smart casual clothing is a comfortable choice without the need to overpack.
French is the official language, although English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, shops and other visitor-oriented businesses.
St. Barts has no natural freshwater source and relies heavily on desalination and collected rainwater. Water is a valuable island resource, so thoughtful use is appreciated.
There are no silly questions. If we missed something, give us a call. Islanders Travel & Tours is here to help you make the most of your time on the island.
(212) 228-7100