St. Barts

30-Sep-2013 • Gustavia St. Barts

St. Barts was definitely one of my favorite islands in the Caribbean. It was so peaceful, so laid back, so safe. I would love to return and visit for a lot longer time.

Truth to tell, I didn't realize many rich and famous people from the US came here to vacation. In fact, I didn't even know this island existed until I got the travel brochure for our cruise and I found out that it was one of the MV Tropicale's stops.

Besides its white sand beaches, shopping for anything French was big here. I did purchase my very first luxury Gucci watch in this island. I believe it was in Little Switzerland, the duty free store that is ever so present throughout the Caribbean, where I bought it. One does need to do a little research when in the States so as to compare prices. After having traveled on three cruises to this part of the world, I can say that luxury watches are indeed a bargain here.

In front of a local church in Gustavia

A few steps and a short climb away to the Swedish Belfry in downtown

The Shell Beach

The top of the hill in Gustavia

Atop the hill above Gustavia

This was the view of the city of Gustavia from atop the hill where the cross was.

Taken at one of our stops during our cab ride around the island.

Just look at this beach, so peaceful, so private.

I remember our cabbie/guide telling us the names of the beaches or coves we passed by. As can be expected, I can no longer recall any of them.

The following were some of the beaches we passed by on our quick one hour cab ride around the island.

It was here in St. Barts where I experienced sticker shock. I planned on purchasing some postcards, but at a dollar a piece, I couldn't believe my eyes. Back in San Francisco up until the late nineties, one could purchase postcards 10 for a buck. I did purchase five, but I wasn't willing to spend anymore I just wanted to include them in my photo albums like always to remind me of the trip.