Saint Barthélemy

If you'd prefer to avoid flying into St Barts Airport, you can take a ferry instead. Services run from Marigot on the French side of Saint-Martin, and from Simpson Bay and Philipsburg on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The trip takes only 45-60 minutes, and you'll benefit from slightly lower fares compared to flights, plus the ability to bring more luggage.

As an overseas collectivity of France, St Barts maintains its own visa policy separate from both mainland France and the Schengen Area. The island welcomes visitors from many countries with minimal formalities, while requiring advance planning for others. Citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, European Union nations, Australia and New Zealand can enter St Barts visa-free for tourism purposes, enjoying stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The only requirements are a passport valid for the duration of stay and proof of onward or return travel arrangements. Travellers from countries not on the visa-exempt list must obtain specific authorization before arrival. Importantly, standard Schengen visas do not permit entry to St Barthélemy — visitors must secure a visa explicitly marked for the "Collectivité de Saint-Barthélemy", available through French embassies and consulates worldwide. The island maintains relatively straightforward entry procedures, with no vaccination requirements for most travellers. However, policies may change, so verifying current regulations shortly before travel is always advisable.

Saint Barthélemy enjoys a temperate maritime climate year-round, with warmer and wetter conditions in summer. Located in the French West Indies, the island maintains temperatures between 27°C (80°F) in winter and 30°C (86°F) in summer, peaking near 32°C (90°F) in July and August. Sea temperatures can reach 29°C (84°F) during these months. The climate follows two distinct seasons. The cooler dry season lasts from December to May. From June to November, the wet season brings warmer temperatures with higher humidity and hurricane risks (particularly in September and October). For optimal conditions, visit between December and June when trade winds bring sunny days and minimal rain. The period from April to November sees higher temperatures and more frequent rainfall. Peak tourist activity occurs during the Christmas and New Year holidays, when festive events dominate the calendar.

Saint Barthélemy has no public transport system. Visitors typically rely on rental cars and scooters, taxis or private transfers. Taxis are limited — even short journeys cost significantly, and availability isn’t guaranteed. People drive on the right side of the road, following French traffic laws. Be ready for narrow and winding roads, often with steep inclines. While fuel prices run high, most trips take just 5-10 minutes. Maintain steady speed on hills for better traction, particularly in wet conditions. Many businesses provide valet parking services.

Saint Barthélemy uses Type E power sockets — these have two round pins and an earth pin opening. The standard electrical supply runs at 220-240 volts.