Exclusive is a word always tagged with the French Caribbean outpost St Barthelemy or St Barts, St Barth, or St Barths (depending on who you ask!). This island is a cozy ten square miles and is often described as jewel-like, and like all diamonds, it is utterly priceless in beauty and setting.

Blessed with 11 beaches, visitors can enjoy calm swimming, lively beach restaurants and bars, fun nightlife, and endless views across the turquoise blue sea from their St Barts Villas. Every conceivable water sport is easily accessed on St Bart's, or you can simply swim with the curious turtles around the reef.

Getting to the island is part of its charm. All flights to St Bart's involve touching down at the small airport outside the capital Gustavia. That view across the red roofs of this port town is unforgettable. If you arrive by ferry from St Martin, you'll enjoy taking in the gorgeous island view as you sail into the terminal in Gustavia.

For a century, starting in 1784, the island was ceded by France to Sweden. This peaceable arrangement saw the island's capital renamed Gustavia in honor of the Swedish monarch, King Gustav III. This Swedish influence is still visible today-the town's architecture, the pitched tiled roofs, and some of the street names remind us of that connection. St Bart's retains pride in its Swedish heritage, and the flags of both France and Sweden fly over the government offices of the island.

The Swedish ethos and French culture have established a welcoming approach to life on this pretty island. This idyllic tempo has made St Bart's an unequaled enclave for the very famous, rich, and discerning who like to vacation in style. Luxurious understatement and high-end service blend seamlessly to deliver a sublime Caribbean vacation for everyone. It's not unusual to see noteworthy actors, musicians, or lauded artists enjoying the pleasures of St Bart's. However, an unspoken rule stops the invasion of privacy by intrusive cameras or uncool autograph hunters. It's all about live-and-let-live - and, wow, it's living at the highest level!

Fabulous private villas are designed to maximize views yet provide intimate space to hang out. A pair of sunglasses and a dramatic sunhat will allow most celebrities to blend into the chic background on any beach.

And the beaches are glorious. Saint-Jean beach on the north of the island is a sweep of palest creamy sand, unfurled against the gentle lap of the sea. The village of the same name is one of the most popular places to visit or vacation on St Bart's. Sumptuous villas, boutique hotels, bars, and gourmet restaurants provide so much diversion for visitors.

Gouverneur Beach, on the southernmost side of St Bart's, is virtually flawless and fulfills all your dreams of a perfect Caribbean beach. However, the lack of amenities at this beach shouldn't be a barrier to a perfect day out. Just pack a gourmet picnic and some cool drinks and embrace the lazy ambiance of St Bart's life.

On the western end of St Bart's, you will find Colombier Beach. A gentle hike will get you to this gorgeous bay. The beach is surrounded by lush green vegetation with only one visible villa to mar your perfect castaway experience. If you use a boat during your visit to the island, it's one of the recommended experiences to sail or motor to Colombier Beach and swim ashore.

The caliber of cuisine found throughout the island is enhanced by the very best ingredients. Locally sourced fish is taken to another level by talented chefs. In addition, a very efficient import system allows the finest and rarest produce - including wines and beers - to be brought onto the island.

Booking ahead is always advisable to get a table at some of the most celebrated venues. Restaurants, both great and small, attract the rich and famous. Lunches and dinners at any of St Bart's award-winning restaurants are overseen by formidable maitre'd and wait staff who know how to protect guests from unwanted intrusion. It could be the caliber of the visitor to St Bart's, but there's rarely a note of discord. The universal themes of equality, liberty, and fraternity - all so French - set the perfect tone.

The day-to-day style of the island is all about being chic without the 'try too hard' vibe. Top-drawer brands without flashy insignia say more than any bling-laden couture. You'll want some well-cut swimwear for sunbathing with lots of stylish cover-ups when you leave the beach or pool for drinks or lunch. The terrain of St Bart's is ideally suited to comfortable flat shoes for daywear but feel free to unleash your glamorous best after sundown. Smart casual might own the day, but exquisite cocktail wear for women with tailored ensembles for men make a night out in St Bart's a glamorous affair.

Some of the famous island venues are Nikki Beach - a must-do on Sunday. Bonito feels like you're dining in a gorgeous beach house with the best views over the harbor. Another favorite is Bagatelle. A visit to Eddy's, a tropical garden hidden in the heart of Gustavia, for French cuisine with a St Bart's flair is quirky and memorable.

Style and substance are St Bart's signature. Beautiful beaches, fine dining, notable wines, chichi clubs, shopping, and bars are all part of the irresistible package of this beautiful island. There's a very unspoiled quality to this green, hilly island. See and be seen in one of the most celebrated playgrounds of the discerning traveler.

Heavenly weather unites with the best of the Caribbean to deliver the St Bart's magic. With more than a dash of French style, this wonderful island has become one of the world's most admired and fun destinations.

In conclusion, St Bart's is the ultimate destination for a chic French getaway with stunning beaches and beauty.

If you like the idea of something more traditionally Caribbean, having a two-center holiday and staying in one of the amazing Jamaica Villas is also a great option.

Original Source of the original story >> St Barths: Fall in Love with this Stylish Gem