The festivities continued throughout the week. Many shops hosted wonderful cocktail parties throughout Gustavia. After hosting our weekly cocktail party at Bonito restaurant on Tuesday, we continued on to a cocktail reception at the elegant jewelry store, Chopard because I had received a very nice invitation to attend. So many people were there – the Champagne was flowing and yummy hors d’oeuvres were being passed.
After that we strolled along the harbor and decided to stop in to say Bonsoir to Brice. He used to work at the Tom Beach hotel’s Pink Parrot Bar that is situated in the sand by its La Plage restaurant. Brice recently purchased La Cantina and I wanted to check it out. (That’s part of my job so I can update my “Helpful Hints” which many people refer to as their “bible”). La Cantina is very a popular spot with reasonably priced drinks and tapas. It has a view of the harbor and is a great place if you are into people-watching.
The next evening we were invited to attend the Grand Opening of Natalie Clifford’s new contemporary art gallery, Space SBH, which is located in the Carré D’Or shopping area. It was packed and once again the Champagne was flowing. Flute in hand, I walked around and marveled at featured artist Dominique Rousserie’s work.
Some of his work that is on display through January 14, 2012 features paintings of St Barth which would complement anyone’s décor. I particularly love the one that shows the map of St. Barth.
With New Year’s Eve fast approaching, the island continued to bulge as more people were arriving by plane, ferry or yacht. People just love to be in St. Barth at this time of year. Traditionally Steve and I always go to the Wall House for the evening. Julien Tatin and his father Bernard are such wonderful hosts. We gathered in front of the Wall House Museum for cocktail hour that featured an open bar and a wonderful array of passed hors d’oeuvres. Yachts were berthed in front of us; the atmosphere was perfect. A delicious dinner in the restaurant followed. Courses including foie gras, fish and veal were served. We finished just in time to see the midnight fireworks. Everyone began kissing each other and while shouting Bonne Année! The sky was full of bursts of color and the yachts sounded their horns in approval.
Happy New Year Everyone. I hope to see in St. Barts. When you are ready to make your plans, email [email protected] or call 1-800-421-3396.
7 comments
Peg,
Thanks for the great update on the New Year’s festivities.
Looking forward to our March visit.
Kevin & Stanton
Hi Kevin, Thanks. The weather is beautiful. I am watching the sunset now. I’ll keep you up-to-date until you get here…Looking forward to seeing you and Stan in March.
Peg, Took your advice about The Cantina. Great Tapas and very reasonably priced. Met new friends and definitely a great vantage point from which to sit back and take the pulse of St. Barths. Will add it to our list of regular island places to visit.
Jeanne Gibbons
Hi Jeanne, We think La Cantina is a great spot for drinks and munchies,too. It’s quite tasty and the staff is so friendly. Hope to see you back in SBH very soon.
Peg, Doug & I will be on our 15th rental this year, all have been booked thru St. Barth Properties…2 weeks this year will be wonderful !
Hello,
Where do you suggest spending New Years Eve with our 5yr old son.
Best,
Jessica
Hi Jessica, Sorry for the late answer. I just got back from St. Barth. Do you plan on staying up until midnight with your son? The action is in Gustavia with fireworks at midnight but you need to go there early in order to find parking. Otherwise, Andy’s Hideaway in St. Jean is always a favorite of both adults and kids. No matter where you go, reservations are a must. Our concierge can make them for you if you are staying in one of our villas or hotels. All the best – Peg