Regattas Offer Economic Stimulus for Caribbean Islands Impacted by last Fall’s Hurricanes

Catch up on the latest with this St. Barthélemy Guide for First-Timers by Shyla Martin in New York Magazine featuring some of our favorite places on the island that make a trip to St. Barths unforgettable.

“Confession time. I’ve traveled extensively throughout the Caribbean, and visiting St. Barthelemy (or St-Barth to locals) had never once crossed my mind. Perhaps the island’s reputation as a hideaway for beautiful one-percenters made it seem totally inaccessible to a mere mortal like me. But a recent visit has convinced me: My assumption was completely false — and I’d been missing out on a truly magical place.

St. Barts blends the sophistication of France’s urban centers and the geniality of the French countryside, with a tropical setting of craggy mountains, crystal-clear turquoise waters, stretches of sun-drenched coastline, and bougainvillea-filled gardens. Make no mistake, this paradise is more expensive than other Caribbean islands (especially since local currency is the euro). But there’s ways to enjoy St. Barts whether your budget is large or small.” – New York Magazine

When to Go

High season is December through March (especially the last two weeks of December), which means that you may be rubbing shoulders with Academy Award winners — and that bookings must be made at least six months in advance. Prices lean toward exorbitant. But starting in early April, rates drop significantly, and there’s still the West Indies Regatta and St. Barts Film Festival to enjoy. July and August are considered the rainy low season, but St. Barts is rarely in the path of hurricanes and storms usually occur at night, making for stunningly green mountainsides.

Where to Stay

Budget-hack tip: Most five-star hotels close for the entire month of September and sometimes a few weeks in late August and early October. If you plan a trip during this time, villa rentals are a good option, and you can score low rates. For example, a one-bedroom villa with WIMCO Villas starts at $1,950 a week in September, as opposed to $4,950 per week during the holidays.

Book your St Barths villa now

Read more about how to choose between all 16 beaches that are public and free to use on the island and where to eat.

A St. Barthélemy Guide for First-Timers [New York Magazine – Travel]

Search our value villas on St. Barths!

The Five-Point Weekend Escape Plan – Find a Fabulous Bargain in St. Barts [New York Magazine ’08]

Insider’s Tip – Find a Fabulous Bargain in St. Barts [New York Magazine ’08]

Honeymoons – St. Barths, French West Indies [New York Magazine ’06]

Class Acts – Brush up your skills, from cooking to casting, on your next trip abroad – Tuscany Travel [NY Mag ’03]

Mustique and St. Barts are known for their spectacular private villas, so why haven’t you ever rented one? It may be cheaper than you think [New York Magazine ’01]

Hotel Directory [New York Magazine]

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