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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