Discover some new St. Barth favorites
Our St. Barth Villa Specialist, Julie Nally (20 years with SBP) just returned from her spring inspection trip to St. Barth. She stayed at various places for a night or two, as is customary when the staff is on one of their reconnaissance tours that occurs twice a year. Julie spent a few nights at the new 5-star hotel, Villa Marie Saint Barth. (Loved it!) She said, “Standout Hotel: Villa Marie – Brand new boutique hotel located in Colombier. One of the room amenities I loved the most was the super soft bathrobe provided for all guests. Bathrobes are obviously not a new item offered. However, this specific robe was the most comfortable and best fitting I have ever had. I wanted to buy one to bring home, but unfortunately, they are not for sale. Their branded Pure Altitude facial and body products provided are lovely as well.”
Julie continued to say, “The ambiance at the property is very nice…tropical, lots of vegetation, hillside.” The restaurant at the hotel is called, François Plantation in tribute to the former restaurant that used to occupy the same spot when the hotel with the same appellation was there many years ago. Julie dined there and said, “It was very good (gastronomique) a bit expensive, also. Of course, right?! LOL.” I’ve dined there a few times myself and thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s well worth it and it’s always full, so please make sure to ask us to make a reservation for you.
Julie then checked into Villa Aronnax – This luxurious one bedroom pied-à-terre is in the heart of Gustavia. Julie loved it for its views, infinity pool and location. She said. “Aronnax – Great for a couple or solo traveler who wants to experience the heart of Gustavia and all it has to offer…delicious food, tasty treats, fabulous shopping, and lovely people to meet and converse with. Being able to keep my car parked in its own designated spot and walk to Shell Beach earns Villa Aronnax extra stars!” Its proximity to Tom’s Natural Juice Bar was perfect. Julie would start her day with one of their fresh fruit & vegetable smoothies or acai bowls. She’d pick up some house-made hummus and sunflower crackers to fuel her for a morning full of villa inspections.
Other tidbits from Julie. “Standout spots for the health-conscious traveler: In addition to Tom’s Juice bar, there is a new place in St Jean, Chez SO, specializing in organic salads made fresh daily at 6 euro/bowl as well as smoothies, sandwiches, and desserts.”
Julie inspected, many, many villas on her trip and told me her, “Standout villas: Villa LAO – Brand new, located high on the hillside in Corossol with three en suite bedrooms, all with a private Jacuzzi. The view is amazing and the location is private, peaceful, and convenient.” She also loved Villa Clés des Vents that is located in the gated community of Mont Jean. In her own words, “Incredibly private, serene, tranquil. Furnishings and décor are classic but luxurious. A ‘home away from home’ style and comfortability.”
I am heading back to St. Barth on Sunday to gather information for our next Live Your Dream magazine and looking forward to writing articles for your enjoyment. I will also be organizing and planning our beachside party when we unveil the magazine and launch the new season. It will be in the late fall. I can give you the exact date when I return. I hope to see you there!
