St. Barts
by Maya Offenbach, Villa Product Manager
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After arriving in St. Martin on a comfortable Jet Blue flight from New York, it was easy to stop by the WinAir desk just before Customs and get right back into the flight terminal to catch our small plane for the very short flight to St. Barts (also known by it's French name of St. Barth or St. Barthelemy). Unlike the major airports back home, we boarded our plane and were taxiing and taking off within minutes of our scheduled departure, and within 15 minutes of takeoff we were landing in beautiful St Barts. In my mind, the flight certainly beats a 45-minute standard ferry ride from the neighboring isle of St. Martin. The ferry is always an affordable alternative for those who prefer sea over air.
Upon arrival we picked up our rental car, a 4-wheel drive Daihatsu Terios, and followed our villa escort caravan style to Villa Arte, a brand-new hillside 4-bedroom villa in the conveniently located Flamands area. (Side note: Small 4-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended for the hilly terrain and winding roads of the isle.) After settling into our villa for the night, we ventured out to Gustavia for a casual dinner. Gustavia is the major port town on the island and certainly tailor-made for the tourist trade. After strolling the harbor-front streets of Quai de la République and Rue de Bord de Mer, we ended up right back where we started at the welcoming Le Repaire restaurant.
The food at Le Repaire was refreshing and delicious, from my staple Caprese salad, to the mushroom risotto with truffle oil, to the catch of the day - it was all good. To top it all off, we were treated with the restaurant's handcrafted flavored rums. This is definitely a spot I'd recommend for lunch or dinner while in Gustavia!
After dinner it was back to our villa for an evening of relaxation after a day of travel. Here are some of the villas that stood out to me:
Villa Arte, Flamands
 A very well appointed 4-bedroom villa with great integration of indoor/outdoor space and a lovely pool and jacuzzi area. I loved the built-in Miele espresso machine that got me ready for a very busy day of villa site inspections. The house is well laid out with three rooms offering full hillside view over to the bay of Flamands, and one garden view suite. Fully-equipped kitchen, US satellite TV in living room and master, flat screens and DVD players in each bedroom. A great house for couples, or families with teens or older children.
Mer et Soleil, Governeur
 This is a fabulous villa with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. The open air great room leading on to the deck with a large pool and the gorgeous views behind allow for great entertaining. The construction is new and the villa decor is tasteful and flows perfectly throughout the house. While the lot is private, Mer et Soleil's location in Governeur allows for easy back and forth trips between the villa and Gustavia's shopping and nightlife.
Piment, Anse de Cayes
 This is just the place where I would love to spend a romantic getaway with my husband! Absolutely perfect for a couple looking to hole up and enjoy each other, Piment is pleasant, charming and fully equipped with all you could ask for on a villa vacation for two: one master suite, a pool, hot tub, sitting area, gourmet kitchen, and more. The hillside location in Anse de Cayes provides a stunning view from all points of this picturesque property. Lovebirds will not be disappointed! |
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| Why Book a Villa? |
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Less expensive than a hotel stay |
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More living space and overall comfort |
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Genuine local experience |
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Greater privacy - be with your family and friends |
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Recommended Restaurants
& Night Life |
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The Wall House Restaurant is another fabulous, yet inexpensive, St. Barts restaurant located in Gustavia harbor near the City Hall and Museum. The staff is attentive and the French food does not disappoint. This is a great spot for lunch and dinner alike. They offer a gourmet prix fixe dinner menu each evening, which is always something delightful.
http://www.wallhouserestaurant.com/
Tel : 590 27 71 83 |
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Le Select, also known as Cheeseburgers in Paradise, Le Select is a stop not to be missed on your St. Barts itinerary. The restaurant is said to be Jimmy Buffet's inspiration for his 'Cheeseburger in Paradise' song. Although inexpensive, the burgers really are quite tasty. If you're looking to get in and out for lunch, Le Select is a good option. Live music is often played in the evenings at Le Select. Who knows, maybe Jimmy himself will make an appearance while you're there. Located in Gustavia. |
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La Crêperie is a great place for breakfast, lunch, or dessert! Enjoy a crepe or omelette meal, reminiscent of your favorite streetside creperie in France. The fresh squeezed orange juice is truly refreshing and the chocolate crepes with fruit are a definite treat! Located in Gustavia. Tel: 05 90 27 84 07 |
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If you're up for a late night dancing on the town, Casa Nikki by Nikki Beach in Gustavia Harbour is your spot. The two bars and the DJ will keep you going until the early morning light. |
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| Exceptional Service |
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20 years of villa selling experience |
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Personalized service |
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Unique intimate knowledge of villas and destinations |
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100% customer satisfaction |
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