Saint Barthelemy🇧🇱
Saint Barthelemy, often referred to as St. Barts, is a French-speaking Caribbean island that is part of the French West Indies. It is known for its white sandy tropical beaches, luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and gourmet dining. The island offers a blend of French chic and island relaxation. With stunning landscapes, pure shores, and a unique blend of cultures, the island is considered a major tourist destination. The most recommended things to do include water sports, sunbathing on the famous St. Jean and Colombier beaches, shopping in Gustavia, and hiking to the natural pools in Petit Cul de Sac.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid disrespectful behavior: Local culture and people should be treated with respect. Vulgar language and rowdy behavior are disapproved.
- Avoid mishandling marine life: It's essential to respect marine habitats. Corals and Marine animals shouldn't be touched or disturbed while snorkeling or diving.
- Avoid unprotected sun exposure: Sun can be strong in the Caribbean, so use sunscreens and avoid prolonged exposure during peak hours.
- Avoid driving without a car rental insurance: It is necessary to have car rental insurance as road conditions can be challenging.
- Avoid ignoring hurricane warnings: If a hurricane warning is issued, take it seriously and follow local authority instructions.
- Avoid illegal substances: The use, possession, or trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offense and can lead to imprisonment.
- Avoid littering: Keeping the island clean is a collective responsibility. Dispose of trash properly and avoid littering.
- Avoid traveling without valid documentation: It's crucial always to have the right documentation and identification, especially when visiting different parts of the island.
- Avoid handling wildlife: Contact with local wildlife, such as iguanas, should generally be avoided.
- Avoid risky water sports without guidance: Always ensure safety measures are observed when engaging in water sports.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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St. Barts is known for its low crime rate, making it a safe place for tourists and residents alike. As it is a high-end tourist destination, the local authority takes security very seriously. However, like anywhere, small crimes like pickpocketing or purse snatching can occur, particularly in crowded places. All towns on the island are considered safe.
Terrorism 💣
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The island of St. Barts has no history of terrorism. In recent years, there have been no reported incidents or threats of terrorism. The risk of terrorism is historically very low.
War ⚔️
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Saint Barthelemy has no history of war or significant civil unrest. It is a peaceful island with no past incidents related to war. The island enjoys a harmonious society with a consistent political environment.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Saint Barthelemy is in a region that can be affected by hurricanes. The hurricane season typically runs from June to November. The island was severely hit by Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused significant damage. However, the restoration and response were swift and efficient.
Medical Care 🏥
8
St. Barts has a well-equipped hospital in Gustavia and several pharmacies throughout the island. For major medical emergencies, patients need to be airlifted to a larger island with more comprehensive facilities. It's important to have good travel health insurance.
Tap Water Quality 💧
9
The tap water in St. Barts is safe to drink and meets international water quality standards. However, most visitors prefer to drink the readily available bottled water.
Disease Burden 🤒
9
There's little threat of any major infectious diseases in St. Barts. However, occasional cases of Dengue fever have been reported, transmitted by mosquitoes. Standard vaccinations are advised.
Corruption 💸
9
Corruption is not a significant issue in Saint Barthelemy. Being a French Overseas Territory, the island follows strict governance, and any corruption cases are dealt with seriously.
Safety for Women ♀️
10
Saint Barthelemy is an extremely safe destination for solo female travelers. However, standard precautions are advised as with traveling anywhere. Incidents of any form of harassment are very minimal.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Being a French territory, Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Saint Barthelemy. The island has a relaxed and accepting attitude towards homosexuality. However, overt public displays of affection, regardless of sexual orientation, may attract unwanted attention.
Censorship 📺
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There is no significant censorship or limitations on the internet, press, or other forms of media in St. Barts. Freedom of speech and press is respected on the island.
Public Transportation 🚌
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There is no public transportation system on the island. The primary means of transportation are cars and taxis, which are reliable and safe. Car rental services are also available and are a popular option for visitors.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Saint Barthelemy is a safe and relaxed Caribbean destination. The island's crime rates are low, and no significant terrorism history exists. While natural disasters like hurricanes can pose some risks, they are well managed by local authorities. It's important to respect local customs, laws, and regulations while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Looking after personal belongings and observing safety measures during water activities and sun exposure is always advised.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
As Saint Barthelemy is an Overseas Collectivity of France, there are no foreign embassies on the island. Assistance would typically come from local government or the nearest embassy on neighboring islands or the mainland.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
No additional vaccinations are required beyond what is recommended in your home country. Standard vaccinations such as MMR, tetanus, and chickenpox should be up to date. Consider Hepatitis A and Typhoid shots, as they can be contracted via contaminated food or water.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
The risk from animals is low. There are no venomous or deadly animals on the island. However, sea urchins and fire coral can be found in the waters so take care while in the ocean.
🛂 Visa Requirements
As an overseas collectivity of France, European Union, EEA, and Swiss nationals do not require visas to enter. For others, the same rules apply for entry into France. Many countries have visa exemptions for visits shorter than 90 days.
💲 Currency
The official currency is Euro. It's possible to exchange money at banks or withdraw EUR at ATMs located in Gustavia and St. Jean.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted on St. Barts, particularly Visa and MasterCard. American Express is also accepted at some larger hotels and restaurants. Using cash is recommended for small quick payments.
👨🌾 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Considering the high cost of living and restrictions on non-EU citizens, Saint Barthelemy is not a popular work and travel destination.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
As a luxury tourist destination, the cost of travel and living on St. Barts can be quite high. Accommodation, dining, and activities are often priced at the premium end of the range.