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What is St. Barth like Post-Hurricane Irma? Should you go? A Client’s Perspective

Monday, January 29th, 2018

Bill and Cathy Fuchs from Scottsdale, Arizona shared their late December to early January 2018 St. Barth experience with us.

What a fantastic trip (our tenth), and though there are some post Hurricane differences, there’s no reason to avoid St Barth. We enjoyed two weeks at the Villa Blue Diamond with little evidence Irma had visited three months earlier. Around the island, where power lines were damaged, now stand temporary poles, and it seems most lines are attached by rope, but there’s reliable power! Occasional roof damage is visible, but is not the norm. Roads are as they’ve always been, in good condition, and Odile with Gumbs Car Rental equipped us with a Jimny with only 24km – we like new! Grocery stores are well stocked. All Seaside restaurants except Shellona are under renovation, and they are open and very busy for a great vibe; reservation required. La Plage and Lil Rock Beach Bar at St Jean offer basic beach services to get your party started. Colombier, Saline, Gouverneur, St. Jean, and Shell beaches are as beautiful as ever.

With many of our regular restaurants under renovation, we sought new dining experiences. We visited Orega twice, so that’s obviously our top pick. Tamarin, L’Esprit, YoSushiMania, 25 Quarter, Bagatelle, and of course Le Select continue to exceed expectations. This was the best weather streak we’ve ever had with some rain at night and sunny days with occasional puffy clouds being blown by the trade winds. We could have done without the Christmas Eve M5.2 earthquake, but still found it interesting. Jimmy Buffett’s wharf-side free concert December 27th adds to the bragging rights of being in St Barth. Travel through SBH is no different; the terminal looks and functions the same.

For those of you connecting via St Maarten, the terminal will likely be closed for a year. All operations are run from tarmac-based tents with many employees anxious to give directions and assist. Arrivals are at the end of the terminal closest to the sea, departures are at the opposite end of the terminal, near the employee parking lot, and you enter a gate with a sign stating only ticketed passengers beyond this point. Inside, we find tents to obtain our tickets, clear immigration and security, and find a basic waiting area with some food. Presently there are three USA flights per day (San Juan, Miami, Atlanta), so it’s very easy to navigate and crowds were negligible as our departure flight of less than 200 passengers isn’t much of a crowd. We overnighted at the Atrium Resort, for a clean room and comfortable bed; they did a nice job. A local we spoke with, estimates they’ve lost 90% of their tourist traffic, I would agree, there’s not too much going on, and unlike St Barth, here the damage is extensive and apparent, but Driftwood, and Sunset Beach Bar are open and must not be missed for a cold bucket of Carib while watching the big jets take off as tourists try to withstand the jet blast.

Thanks Bill and Cathy. Come back soon!

Tags: 25 Quarter, Atrium Resort, Bagatelle, Bill and Cathy Fuchs, Driftwood, Gumbs Car Rental, Hurricane Irma, Jimmy Buffett, L'Esprit, La Plage, Le Select, Lil Rock Beach Bar, Orega, Shellona, St. Maarten airport, Sunset Beach Bar, Tamarin, YoSushiMania
Posted in St. Barth Trips | No Comments »

December 12, 2017 to January 04, 2018

Friday, January 5th, 2018

La Bagatelle, Shellona, La Guérite and Orega reopen on time!

Departing from Boston via Miami and then via St. Maarten, SBP VP and my son, Tom Smyth arrived December11th and reported a smooth transfer from SXM to St. Barth. On our way into Gustavia, we noticed that the pétanque aka boules (bocce) courts are ready for play.

St. Barth fixed the boules courts, too.

Have a seat on a bench and watch an early evening boules match.

We had lots of very productive meetings with the staff at our rental office as well as our Sotheby’s sales office. It was a bit noisy, because there were at least 10 men working on the Baz Bar’s rehab and about the same number of guys working on getting La Bagatelle restaurant ready for its reopening on December 14th.

We visited villas, beaches and drove around the island. Tom was last here in October and the further greening of the island was well-noted. Everyday looks better than the day before. The weather has been so clear the last few days, it seems as if we can touch the distant islands.

There were signs of the approaching holidays; people still booking villas at the last minute because they had to be in St. Barth to celebrate. Roman Abramovich owns a villa behind Gouverneur Beach and always throws a big New Year’s Eve party in St. Barth. We saw his yacht anchored next to, and dwarfing, a cruise ship that was next to it.

Roman Abramovich’s 538 foot yacht, the Eclipse is here. it is a beauftul sight to see.

La Bagatelle reopened December 14th and we had reservations for dinner. As I mentioned previously, a crew, including our waiter, was feverishly working to finish it on time. Tom saw the state of it and told me we would not be dining there as it could not possibly be ready in time. I left the office to see for myself and took a photo. I asked our server, JC if I needed to cancel our reservation. He said, “Absolutely not. Come back in an hour and see for yourself.” So, when we left the office about an hour and a half later, I checked it out.

At 11 minutes after three on December 14, 2017, Tom said to me that there was no way we would be dining at Bagatelle tonight.

I took this after photo of Bagatelle 2 hours and 15 minutes later on December 14, 2017 – Incredible.

Incredible! I had invited Dennis and Amy, clients of mine who were staying at Villa Les Embruns by Flamands Beach, to join us for a drink at the bar at 7:00 p.m. They were so happy that they had come to St. Barth. Dennis, said, “We have had a lovely week. I cannot recall a time when the island was more welcoming. Thank you very much for all your help these past weeks with our visit which was the most unique experience among all our other many trips to St. Barth.” An hour later, we were seated for dinner. The place was packed – totally sold out. We loved people-watching and our meals were delicious.

Bagatelle waa packed on opening night.

As the days fly by I am still discovering new changes, so each time I go to Gustavia or somewhere else, I take a photograph for you. Orega opened just before Christmas. After dining at Eddy’s, we walked by. Greg pulled us in to offer us a glass of Champagne in celebration. It looks even better than before. There is a sushi bar at the entrance and the main dining room has more subtle lighting. I wanted to wait until after the holiday rush, so we are dining there tomorrow.

I am happy to say that Orega opened Dec 21, 2017. You must dine here.

The man-made beach area in front of Villa Brise de Mer looks so inviting.

This fence is now up at the end of the runway. At least it will let the sand blow through it naturally.

Steve and I were lucky to have our son, Mark Smyth, his wife Cynthia and our granddaughter Reegan join us for the holidays. We were able to play tourist with them and spent time on the beaches during the day, and dining out with them at night. They stayed at Villa Au Petit Pont, which is freshly painted and has renovated bathrooms.

This was our view from Petit Pont on Christmas morning.

We loved having Christmas dinner at Le Tamarin.

The famous Tamarin tree at Le Tamarin restaurant survived Hurricane Irma and is showing new growth.

Things are picking up on St. Jean Beach. Tom Beach hotel has set up beach chairs, umbrellas, on a first come first served basis (20 euros) and there is a make-shift beach bar where you can get drinks and order some food supplied by Le Bouchon. The bartender takes your order, then a runner drives over to Bouchon and brings it back! Clever.

Tom Beach’s Beach Bar
Click above to view video

More towards the middle of St. Jean Beach, the new Lil Rock Beach Bar opened on December 23, 2017. Its lounge chairs are much plusher, and can be reserved by calling our concierge, Aurélie Janvier, at 35 euros per day. Their drink menu is less expensive than Tom Beach’s. If you are just looking to go there for a drink or some sushi and other fresh items, they offer tables and chairs where you may sit to enjoy the shade while having a drink and/or food.

Further up, in the middle of St. Jean Beach, Lil Rock Beach Bar debuted December 23, 2017.

Lil Rock Beach Bar on St. Jean Beach opened December 23, 2017.

Lil Rock Beach Bar has tables, free of charge, where you can enjoy your drinks as well as sushi and other items.

The drink menu at Lil Rock Beach Bar is very reasonable.

December 27th, 2017: We had a lovely early dinner at L’Entracte because, as promised, Jimmy Buffett gave a free concert on the quai to support the people of St. Barth who worked so hard on the recovery of the island. Residents, tourists, including parrot heads, flocked to the quai to hear Jimmy and Soley belt out fabulous tunes. Jimmy sang songs about St. Barth, like Autour de Rocher (a nightclub I remember well, before it burned down many years ago). Most of us sang along. Thank you, Jimmy and Soley!

We enjoyed a pre-concert dinner at L’Entracte.

12-27-17 Jimmy Buffett gave a fabulous free concert on the quai.

Just before New Year’s Eve, Shellona reopened with great fanfare. The place has been full ever since. I am sure that this Shell Beach bar and restaurant will have a very successful season. You must try it!

As of December 28, 2017, Shellona is open for business. Enjoy!

New Year’s Eve was as festive as ever. The fireworks did not disappoint, and it seemed as if the entire island came down to Gustavia with a bottle of Champagne to toast in the New Year and wish Bonne Année along with giving kisses on each cheek to anyone who passed by.

I know that so many of you are suffering from bitter cold and lots of snow – it is only early January. Why not book your St. Barth vacation right now? Email me pegwalsh@stbarth.com or reservations@stbarth.com. If you are looking to stay in a 5-Star hotel, the Christopher is reopening February 20, 2018! We will be pleased to book a room for you.

Happy New Year! Bonne Année!

Happy New Year from the on-island St. Barth Properties real estate sales and rental teams. It is fun to work in St. Barth! (photo taken by Laurent Benoit at Villa Nirvana)

Tags: Christopher, Jimmy Buffett, La Bagatelle, La Guérite, Le Bouchon, Lil Rock Beach Bar, New Year’s Eve, Orega, pétanque, Shellona, Soley, Tom Beach, Villa Au Petit Pont, Villa Brise de Mer, Villa Les Embruns
Posted in St. Barth Restaurants, St. Barth Trips | 2 Comments »

Hurricane Irma update November 11-15, 2017

Tuesday, November 21st, 2017

Which Beaches are open on St. Barth 9-10 weeks after Hurricane Irma?

The most recent update on the post-Hurricane Irma recovery on St. Barth in real-time November 11-15, 2017

November 11, 2017

It is Saturday November 11, 2017. Veteran’s Day in the US and Armistice Day in St. Barth (France). Businesses and enterprises are closed for the holiday. Not only it is a special day of tribute, it always falls on the anniversary of the founding of Le Select. Today is the 68th anniversary of this very famous bar! Marius Stakelborough opened the establishment that sits in the heart of Gustavia, in 1949.

Marius Stakelborough is one of my most favorite people. He is 94 years old and still going strong!

The celebration officially started at 11:30, so we arrived around 11:15 and were lucky to get a table that was partially shaded by an umbrella. For those of you who have been to Le Select before, the big tree with the round sign came down with Hurricane Irma, so it is sunnier. I think that Marius’ kids want to put something more permanent up, but I do not know if Marius will let them. We shall see. Anniversary cakes were cut, and Champagne was poured for everyone.

The crowd came out for the 68th anniversary of Le Select. 1949-2017

Eddy Stakelborough (Eddy’s restaurant) , one of Marius’ 9 children is there to congratulate his dad.

Everyone knows Marius, including Jimmy Buffett who refers to Marius in his One Particular Harbor song. When Marius decided to add food selections to his bar, he asked Jimmy if he could name it Cheeseburger in Paradise. Jimmy happily agreed, but only if Jimmy could have an open tab for the rest of his life. No problem! Jimmy gave a free concert on the quai for Le Select’s 50th and 60th anniversaries and I am hoping he will do it again for the 70th in just 2 more years. I’ll be there! Will you? Jimmy still comes to St. Barth all the time and will often pick up a guitar and sing an impromptu set at the Baz Bar.

Jimmy Buffett loves to stop by the Baz Bar once in a while to sing an impromptu set of songs. (I took this picture December 29, 2016. I am sure you will see him in 2017-2018, too).

Saturday night we (Pascale and her husband, Christophe, Steve and I) had invited the owners of the gorgeous Villa L’Adrech to have dinner with us at L’Esprit – Jean Claude Dufour. They accepted with an invitation to have Champagne and hors d’oeuvres at their villa first. Villa L’Adrech has so much warmth; it’s a home, so specially decorated with every little detail, that I know you will love it. From the circular garden parking area, to the view, to the flowers, the artwork, this villa is very special. You would never know that Hurricane Irma had ever touched it. The owners lived there through Irma’s wrath and, like many other people, took in some less fortunate owners who could no longer stay in their homes. This is the spirit of the people who live on St. Barth. The repairs were done immediately, and the villa is ready for your stay. Just email me, pegwalsh@stbarth.com or my very capable staff at reservations@stbarth.com.

We enjoyed a fabulous dinner wth Pascale, Christophe and the owners of Villa L’Adrech at L’Esprit Jean-Claude Dufour

November 12, 2017

Another Sunday arrives. Normally, this particular November weekend is spent commemorating the twin cities of Gustavia and Piteå (in Sweden) by running the Gustavia Loppet road race. This year, a late afternoon walk was organized to pay tribute to the solidarity shared by everyone on St. Barth after Hurricane Irma. A concert on the quai ended the day.

Time to go to Gouverneur Beach so that I can report back to you. I love this beach. Like Saline Beach, it is undeveloped on purpose. There is a small parking area by the access to the beach, so there is no need to climb a hill to reach it. The ride down to the beach is always dramatic because, as soon as you make the curve down the road, you have a stunning view of the beach that is far below. There were so many people there; many playing in the water, others sunning on the beach. Everyone was smiling. You will love it.

People were enjoying a morning swim at Gouverneur Beach

We stopped at the bakery to get our baguette. Lo and behold, I saw David Mouton, the owner of one of my most favorite restaurants, the Santa Fe. I asked him how things were going, and he told me that the landlord had just signed the insurance papers, so he can start the work. Steve asked him if the restaurant will be open in time for his Super Bowl party and he replied with a definite, “Yes”. We hope the Santa Fe opens sooner than that. I will let you know.

We bumped into David Mouton, the owner of the Santa Fe restaurant.

November 13, 2017

Today, I visited Villa Micela that sits directly on Flamands Beach. To be honest, I was absolutely astonished to see what the owners had accomplished. This two-bedroom jewel is perfect for those of you who love to be on Flamands Beach! I walked in, and immediately wanted to stay there, it looked so inviting. I opened the sliders from the air-conditioned living room to the pool deck – perfect. I walked towards the beach – a steep stairway was there inviting me to go down to the beach – incredible. Villa Micela is waiting for you. Just email me or reservations@stbarth.com. You will be in 7th heaven.

I took this photo of Villa Micela on November 13, 2017. It’s beautiful!

The Villa Micela owners ingeniously built this staircase to be sure that you can directly access Flamands Beach

For dinner, I had heard that the owner of the Tom Beach hotel bought Le Bouchon, located in the Oasis shopping center in Lorient. Indeed, our waiter had a Free St. Barth t-shirt on and told me that he can’t wait until La Plage restaurant reopens because that is where he normally works. He shared with me that they hope to have their New Year’s Eve celebration on the beach, so let julia@stbarth.com if you have reserved your villa with us and want to make reservations. Le Bouchon immediately reopened after Hurricane Irma. Although the menu is not as extensive as it will be, we loved it.

For a casual evening, try Le Bouchon in Lorient.

For now, the menu at Le Bouchon is limited, but yummy. By the time you go, there should be more selections.

November 14, 2017

I visited some potential new villa listings today. The owners had called my office to ask us to add them to our portfolio. I always inspect villas first, before agreeing to represent them. I will share the details of the villas I ok’d, once we have the contracts signed and photos to show you.

Great news! Le Tamarin restaurant reopens November 21, 2017! It is unbelievable that Paco and Julie have been able to restore their famous garden and lily ponds so quickly. I am sure it will be packed, so we should make your reservation before you travel. Never fear, we always send you a lunch and dinner reservation form in advance.

I had spotted a new sign, Da Vinci, that is next to Le Choisy bakery in Lorient, asked Aurélie about it, and she told me it is an alfresco pizza place. I had to try it for dinner tonight. I ordered a pesto pasta dish which was also on the menu and it was quite good (but very filling). This is a very casual place.

Le Choisy bakery in Lorient is open for business.

It looks as if Steve has a palm hat on at Da Vinci restaurant, next to La Choisy bakery, a very casual spot to get a pizza.

November 15, 2017

It’s my last day on St. Barth. I must go home to my house on Cape Cod to cook a huge turkey for our annual Thanksgiving Day dinner that I host for my family. I’m sorry to leave but will be back in no time, December 2nd, to be precise.

We have an arrival at Villa Royal Palm today, so I met the owner there to take a peek. Wow! It looks fantastic. The view is just as wonderful as ever and the villa is spotless.

I was able to see Villa Blue Diamond, too because we have an arrival there tomorrow. It also looks wonderful; The infinity pool was so inviting and, once again, the view is stunning. The owner will be adding a 2nd bedroom at some point (but not working on it while we have clients staying there).

I took this photo of the pool and view from Villa Blue Diamond on November 15, 2017.

Time to get ready and, let me tell you, putting on shoes after 2 weeks in paradise wearing only sandals, was not what I wanted to do. Off to the airport to return our cars to Odile at Gumbs car rental. She was sitting in the booth that St. Barth Properties shares with her. We checked in for our flight to San Juan with Tradewind. The airport and the departure lounge are fine.

Odile Gumbs was waiting for us with a smile, when we returned in our cars.

The deparature lounge at the St. Barth airport looks the same.

A true aerial view of the runway and St. Jean Beach from my seat in Tradewind.

We landed in San Juan, went through immigration and then customs. We were randomly picked to submit to an agriculture check which took some time, so I was grateful that we didn’t have a tight connection. The airport was very busy. We checked in for our flight to Boston on JetBlue.

The San Juan airport was very busy.

We seemed to be the only “tourists” on the plane. A long line with 21 wheelchairs had to board first. No one spoke English; all seemed to be evacuees. It was sad – when we were waiting for our luggage to arrive, I saw so many people, go up to someone arriving in a wheel chair, as well as others, and began hugging them and crying for happiness to get them out of Puerto Rico. I feel sorry for the island and its inhabitants and wish them well in their recovery.

I don’t believe that you will have a problem transiting through San Juan. I will let you know what it is like when I fly back to St. Barth through San Juan on December 01, 2017. We need to overnight in San Juan because JetBlue canceled its morning flights out of Boston.

As of today, the following beaches are open for your swimming enjoyment.

Colombier
Flamands
Anse des Cayes
Corossol
Public
St. Jean (airport side)
Shell Beach
Gouverneur
Petit Cul de Sac

I hope to see you there very soon!

Happy Thanksgiving!

You can give thanks that St. Barth survived Hurricane Irma and is well on its way to recovery.

Tags: Baz Bar, Da Vinci, Flamands Beach, Gouverneur Beach, Gumbs, Gustavia Loppet, Hurricane Irma, JetBlue, Jimmy Buffett, L'Esprit, La Plage, Le Bouchon, Le Choisy, Le Select, Le Tamarin, Marius Stakelborough, Piteå, Saline Beach, Santa Fé, Tom Beach, Tradewind Aviation, Villa Blue Diamond, Villa L’Adrech, Villa Micela, Villa Royal Palm
Posted in Activities, Beaches, Food & Wine, Getting There/Arrival, St. Barth Restaurants, Villas | 2 Comments »

Hate to Cook but Prefer an Occasional Night-In to Enjoy Your St. Barth Villa?

Friday, February 24th, 2017

Delicious Places for Take-out in St. Barth, just for you

As fabulous as St. Barth restaurants are, there are nights you’d just like to relax in that gorgeous villa you rented. Oh, and you don’t feel like cooking. On a recent visit, armed with notebooks and iPhones, we went on a culinary walking tour to give you a few delicious takeaway options.

Island Flavors
Private chef and caterer Jean-Paul Adley showcases his skills in the creation of French and Creole dishes. You can sample his wares at his little shop in Gustavia. Choose from a selection of salads and daily special dishes. Do try the Conch Christophine. Take-away to your villa or maybe to nearby Shell Beach. 10 rue Victor Hugo, Gustavia; Hours – Mon-Fri 9:00 am – 7:00 pm; Sat: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm.

Island Flavors by Jean Paul is located at 10 rue Victor Hugo, the intersecting street across from our office in Gustavia

St. Barts Food Lounge
Part sophisticated grab & go and part charming French café, St. Barts Food Lounge has a mouth-watering selection of Mediterranean-influenced dishes and decadent desserts displayed in glass cases. We ogled their Caribbean-colored macarons, reportedly the best on the island and as good as any found in Paris. Sweet. In every sense. You may be tempted to pass on your take-away plans and wine & dine in their pretty portico under a whirling fan. Their pièce de résistance are themed picnic meals and, wait for it – they’ll deliver to the beach of your choice! Picture that. And wouldn’t make a great one? We’re loving their Apéro Picnic. Pick it up after a beach day or that Gustavia shopping spree. Unpack it at your villa, pour that beverage and voila! Apéro ‒ and santé. 19 Rue De Gaulle – Gustavia Harbour; Hours: Daily 9:00 am–9:00 pm.

Sidewalk cafe dining or take away at the St. Barts Food Lounge

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the St. Barts Food Lounge

Burger Palace
When you are craving a juicy two-handed burger, the heart wants what the heart wants, and there’s a new joint in town. Modestly named the Burger Palace, it’s the size of a shoe box with a menu board listing internationally monikered double and single burgers with a dizzying choice of toppings. (After all, this is St. Barth). A 3€ upgrade gets you a side of frites or a little green salad and a drink from the cooler. There are paninis too but go for the double-burger. You order at the counter and off you go, but if you need instant gratification, there’s a couple of high-top tables just outside. Hours: Daily from 11:00 am; Closing times and late night service varies with extended hours on weekends.

The Burger Palace is across from the Gustavia post office

Yo-Sushi Mania
This restaurant is located at the Villa Lodge hotel in Grand Cul de Sac and offers Japanese cuisine. Yo is famous for his sushi boats. Pioneering, passionate, demanding, he was the first to import Japanese food in St. Barth. In 20 years, he has become the best in sushi catering and Asian cuisine: tempura, yakitori, Japanese skewers, fried Thai rice…Yo Sushi Mania, is both a restaurant and a catering service. They deliver as well. Open every day in high season for lunch from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm; dinner from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. (Closed Mondays in Value Season). As to delivery, they deliver mostly in the evening; you must place your order before 5:00 pm.

Yo-Sushimania at Villa Lodge

Enjoy lunch poolside at Yo-Sushimania

Kiki-é Mo
Located across from Nikki Beach, this cute little place offers breakfast lunch and early dinner to eat there as you watch the world go by or to take out. The menu varies with daily specials as well as sandwiches. Open: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Kiki et Mo is located across from Nikki Beach

Le Papillon Ivre Wine Bar
This très chic little wine bar has much to offer – cheeses, charcuterie, fois gras, salads and tapas-style dishes of this and that. All good-to-go. Proprietor and sommelière Sophie knows her wine, and she’ll have some excellent suggestions to pair with your choices. Sophie makes a mean mousse as well. Night owls take note – they are open most nights ‘till midnight. Alternately, you can take your vino and find a seat at the long bar or claim one of the tables, indoors – in the AC – or on the little awning-sheltered terrace. Les Amandiers, St-Jean; Hours: Mon-Sat: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am; Note – If you have time for a little shopping pre-or-post your visit, (And why wouldn’t you? You’re on vacation.) check out the browse-worthy French Indies Design shop next door, and we think you’ll find the neighboring concept store Sea Spice St. Barth, well, delicious.

Le Papillon Ivre offers indoor and outdoor seating in a little shopping plaza off the Route de Saline in St. Jean

Le Papillon Ivre’s proprietor and sommelière Sophie prepares each order from scratch

L’Isoletta
Pizza is often the first thought when it comes to take out and two options to pick-up thin-crust pies include L’Isoletta, the sophisticated little sister of the acclaimed island Italian restaurant L’Isola. While you are waiting, enjoy a glass of wine on the lounge-y like covered terrace. Just up from the harbor in Gustavia, it’s a see-and-be-seen kind of place. Rue du Roi Oscar II; Hours Daily 11:00 am – 11:00 pm. Closed Monday.

l’Isoletta in Gustavia, St. Barth

Les Bananiers
If everybody’s hungry and you’re in a hurry, swing by Les Bananiers located adjacent to the famous La Petite Colombe bakery in Colombier. It’s not-for-nothing that you see folks hustling those boxes out their door. The pizza menu is extensive but our favorite is the old-school pepperoni. We love to have lunch or dinner in their restaurant too because their menu items are not only yummy, they are reasonably priced. Les Bananiers, Colombier 97133; Mon-Fri: 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm; 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm.

We love the pizzas (as well as the regular menu) at Les Bananiers

Black Ginger
When you have a yen for Asian food – preferably poolside at your villa – check out Black Ginger’s menu for authentic Thai cuisine and call their TO GO line : 001.590 52 92 32. This Gustavia hotspot makes pick-up easy with a separate entrance and counter. Chicken satay makes for a perfect app to go with your sunset cocktails. Their curries are divine and don’t miss their signature dish Pla Pik Thai Dom – which is local fresh-caught Mahi-Mahi with black pepper. Rue Samuel Falhberg, Gustavia; To Go: Open daily from 11.30am to 2:30 pm and 5 pm to 8.30 pm except Sunday.

Black Ginger to-go in Gustavia

The Baz Bar (Bête A Zailes)
Located on the harbor between our St. Barth Properties rental office and our St. Barth Properties Sotheby’s International Realty sales office, the Baz Bar offers Sushi to go. If you prefer to dine there, you will be entertained by visiting bands and, if you’re lucky, a chance to see Jimmy Buffett pick up a guitar and sing a set…just because he loves doing it. Open Monday-Saturday 7:00 pm to 1:00 am.

Jimmy Buffett loves to stop by the Baz Bar once in a while to give us an impromptu set of songs. Hope you are lucky enough to see him.

Delivery:
BAZ BOATS TO YOUR DOOR – MINIMUM 4 PERS.
STANDARD BOAT MENU FOR 4: Price: 194 €; Deposit 100€ Delivery included;
4 Miso Soups, – 2 Wakame, – 2 Sushi Appetizers, 1 Sashimi Moriwase; 1 Roy’s Special or Dragon Roll; 1 Shrimp Tempura Roll or Dancing Eel Roll; 1 Spider Roll or Rainbow Roll; 1 Bagel Roll or Eel Roll or Nagihama.

Sushi at the Baz Bar

La Bagatelle
The fabulous harbor front restaurant and bar, La Bagatelle offers their fabulous full menu to go as well as pizzas to go. The truffle pizza is outstanding and worth the 35 euro price. Located next to our St. Barth Properties rental and sales offices on rue Samuel Fahlberg. Open from 7:00 pm. Closed Sundays.

Delicious pizzas to go from La Bagatelle

Bon Appétit!

Tags: Bête A Zailes, Black Ginger, Burger Palace, French Indies Design, Island Flavors, Jean-Paul Adley, Jimmy Buffett, Kiki-é Mo, L'Isoletta, La Bagatelle, La Petite Colombe, Le Papillon Ivre Wine Bar, Les Bananiers, L’Isola, Sea Spice St. Barth, St. Barts Food Lounge, Take-out, The Baz Bar, Yo-Sushi Mania
Posted in Food & Wine, St. Barth Restaurants | 2 Comments »

The Ultimate St. Barth Christmas Gift to Put Under the Tree

Friday, December 20th, 2013

SURPRISE HER/HIM WITH A LAST MINUTE TRIP TO PARADISE

You’ve surfed the web, you’ve pounded the pavement but you just can’t seem to find the perfect gift to give to your loved one, friend(s) or family. This time of year can be quite stressful because you have so many things to do in such a short period of time. You are tired, you have worked hard at your job all year long, it’s cold outside for most of you and you are already tired of shoveling snow, scraping off your windshield and slipping on black ice. YOU DESERVE A VACATION IN ST. BARTH! So why not reserve a villa for a January getaway and surprise your significant other(s) by gift wrapping it and putting it under the tree?

Here I am in beautiful St. Barth looking out at the view as I type and thinking about all of you and how great it would be if you could join me down here. So I did a little research and came up with some nice options.

Would you like to stay directly on St. Jean Beach and have a swimming pool too? Villa Crystal Dream has a 7 night opening January 09-16, 2014! It has 3 bedrooms so you can surprise 5 people or just travel as a twosome and pay less money. (Choose your bedroom and the other two would just be locked off. You still get to use the whole rest of the house.)

Villa Crystal Dream

Are you looking for a romantic gift for you and someone very special? Villa Blue Diamond is the perfect choice. It is brand new, has a gorgeous infinity pool, a fantastic view and every techno amenity you can imagine. It has availability January 05-18, 2014.

Villa Blue Diamond

If Blue Diamond’s price is a stretch, we have Villa Diaco which sits on the highest peak of St. Barth. The view is incredible. You can reserve it between January 06 and 18, 2014.

Villa Diaco

The luxurious Villa Noé is a perfect villa for one or two couples. Listen to the sound of the surf or better yet go surfing! You can walk to the path that leads you down to that special spot where the serious surfers go. You may end up surfing with Jimmy Buffett! Villa Noé is available between Jan 03 and 17, 2014.

Villa Noé

One or two couples could also enjoy the less expensive Villa Bet Yam with two equal king bedrooms and is even closer to the surfing area. It’s all yours between January 13 and 29, 2014.

Villa Bet Yam

Do you prefer to be closer to Gustavia and Gouverneur Beach? Book the luxurious Villa Mer Soleil between January 05 and 12, 2014 and make your dream come true. The sunsets from here are spectacular.

Villa Mer Soleil

Do you want to splurge? Stay in the top-of-the line three bedroom Villa Méli Mélo between January 05 and 15, 2014 and enjoy sensational views of St Jean from the front and Saline from the back. St. Jean beach is a 2 minute drive away.

Villa Méli Mélo

Both Villa Mer Soleil and Villa Méli Mélo are part of our Grand Cru collection offering you extra services. To gather more information on any of the above gift suggestions, please call -1-800-421-3396 or +1-508-528-7727 or email reservations@stbarth.com. If you decide you want to purchase your gift after hours or over the weekend, email me directly and I will do my best to start the reservation process for you.

See you next month!

Tags: Christmas, Grand Cru, Jimmy Buffett, Villa Bet Yam, Villa Blue Diamond, Villa Crystal Dream, Villa Diaco, Villa Méli Mélo, Villa Mer Soleil, Villa Noé
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Wake Me Up When September Comes

Thursday, September 12th, 2013

Now is the Time to Plan your St. Barth Vacation!

I hope that your summer went well and that you had time to relax a bit. Per usual I spent my summer on Cape Cod working remotely with both my US office and my St. Barth office. The bulk of my time was spent preparing and editing our new Live Your Dream® catalogue. It just went to press and I can’t wait for you to see the finished product – It is our 25th Anniversary edition! I will be unveiling it at our Annual Beachside Bash which this year is being held on November 14th at the gorgeous beachfront hotel Taïwana on beautiful Flamands Beach. I would really love to see you there. Of course the party is our treat in appreciation of you, our valued St. Barth Properties clients. Invitations will be sent out very soon, so if you have not booked your accommodation yet, now is the time to do so. Just email reservations@stbarth.com or better yet, pick up the phone and call 1-800-421-3396 (or +1-508-528-7727). We would be happy to chat with you about the Bash and help you plan your St. Barth trip around it.

The 25th Anniversary Edition of Our Live Your Dream Catalogue is Being Printed in France

If those November dates don’t work for you, now that the kids are back in school and the summer is winding down, it is time to think seriously about booking your fall or winter vacation to St. Barth. While the island might be in its annual hibernation period, it is not too early to make your reservation. Right now and until December 14th, it’s Value Season; many people take advantage of the extra savings that traveling during this period of time affords them. Have a look at our Specials Page to see what villas offer even more bang for your buck. Tradewind Aviation resumes their regularly scheduled roundtrip flights directly to St. Barth from San Juan, St. Thomas and Antigua on October 18th 2013. We are at-the-ready to get those seats booked for you and coordinate the dates to coincide with your villa or hotel reservation.

Would you rather be here or at home buttoning up your overcoat?

If you are thinking of spending the Christmas/New Year’s holidays in St. Barth, many clients have the jump on you; their villa and/or hotel stays as well as their airline and car rental reservations are securely in place. For your convenience we have a direct link to our holiday availability on-line. It is really important to reserve now while we can still offer several villa options, obtain rental cars for you and assist you with the inter-island flights.

My husband Steve and I will be back on the island fulltime by then. We really enjoy the festivities and for the second Christmas in a row, my son, Mark Smyth (the dentist) and his family will be celebrating Christmas in St. Barth with us. Just as we do, you will love taking an evening stroll along the quai to marvel at the wondrous yachts docked along Gustavia Harbor; it’s a must. And, of course window shopping soon brings you into the gorgeously decorated boutiques to have a look; eventually you end up purchasing that perfect gift for yourself and/or for someone special.

A favorite before or after dinner pastime: Walking along the quai in Gustavia to marvel at the yachts

Drop into the Baz Bar after dinner and you just might catch Jimmy Buffet picking up a guitar and singing a few songs with the band that is featured there at that time. Where to dine Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day? Our concierges Julia and Magda will give you the inside scoop as soon as the proposed menus are received. Would you like an in-villa massage? Do you need a babysitter? What about a day trip to Colombier Beach or a sunset cruise? We will happily set that all up for you.

Look who made an impromptu appearance while I was at the Baz Bar. You too can sing along with Jimmy.

Give us a call and Live Your Dream®

Tags: 25th Anniversary, Baz Bar, Beachside Bash, Christmas in St Barth, Colombier beach, Flamands Beach, Hotel Taïwana, Jimmy Buffett, Live Your Dream Catalogue, New Year's in St Barth, Tradewind Aviation, Value Season in St Barth, Villa Specials in St Barth
Posted in Activities, Beaches, Hotels, Parties | No Comments »

New Year’s, Jimmy Buffett, Condé Summit, Café Victoire

Tuesday, January 15th, 2013

Bonne Année!

St. Barth was really hopping over the holiday period. The weather was fantastic. Gustavia was bustling as usual on New Year’s Eve and the myriad of yachts both on the quai and moored off the harbor sounded their horns as the fireworks display began at the stroke of midnight. Many of our clients had such a fantastic holiday that they have already rebooked their villa for next year.

Bonne Année!

I met some of you at our weekly cocktail party at Bonito restaurant and it was fun to see the “regulars” who come every year as well as meet first timers who have also fallen in love with St. Barth. I look forward to seeing those of you who will be here over the next few months at our cocktail party too. (Tuesday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m.) As usual Jimmy Buffett was here. I happened to be at the Baz Bar one evening when he stopped by, picked up a guitar and began singing for us!

Jimmy Buffett entertains us at the Baz Bar

I left the island for a few days to attend Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s Specialist Summit in Grand Cayman. I am very fortunate and honored to have been chosen to receive the Villa Rental Specialist award for St. Barth since the award’s inception in 2006. Director of Consumer News and Digital Community Editor Wendy Perrin carefully vets the top Travel Consultants and Villa Rental Specialists each year and the magazine hosts this conference for the winners. It can be just as difficult to stay on The List as it is to make it in the first place so I am indeed thrilled to be on it.

Villa Specialists Marilyn Pulito St Martin, Julie Byrd Cabo, Conde Nast Editor Wendy Perrin, Peg Walsh St Barth, Gail Boisclair Paris Apartments at the Summit in Grand Cayman

I am happy to be back in St. Barth and pleased to let you know that the fabulous Café Victoire on rue Général Charles de Gaulle in Gustavia has reopened! Owner Bertrand Larregain and his chef Simon are back at the helm and they have created some wonderful dishes. The prices are refreshingly reasonable. We love the sidewalk café ambiance. It is so French. Do try it. Open every day but Sunday for lunch and dinner with the exception of Saturday lunch.

Café Victoire rue Général de Gaulle Gustavia

Carré d’agneau jus romarin (rack of lamb)

Risotto St. Jacques (Scallops)

I am trying out a few new places and inspecting some new villa listings. Stay tuned…

Tags: Baz Bar, Bonito, Café Victoire, Condé Nast Traveler, Jimmy Buffett, New Year’s Eve, Wendy Perrin
Posted in Parties, St. Barth Restaurants | No Comments »

St. Barth Properties’ Annual Beachside Bash set for November 10, 2012

Wednesday, October 10th, 2012

Join us at Dð Brazil on Shell Beach in beautiful St. Barts for drinks, dinner and music. All of our confirmed hotel and villa guests are invited.

We’ve set November 10, 2012 as the date to launch the 2012-13 season with our 4th annual beach party at Shell Beach’s Dõ Brazil. If you missed it last year, we hope you can join us this year. It promises to quite a party!

Enjoy drinks and dinner on Shell Beach

We call it the Beachside Bash and the idea came to us in 2009. That year, the iconic bar and burger shack Le Select was celebrating its 60th anniversary in early November, and its biggest fan, Jimmy Buffett, announced that he would give a free concert. Requests poured in from friends and clients who wanted to come down and join in. It was so much fun that we decided to have a pre-season party every year. And we have.

This year’s Bash will again include great food, wine and cocktails; the company of old and new friends and clients (who then become friends) and live entertainment that we hope will get everyone up dancing. The island’s favorite songstress, Christine Gordon, and the popular guitar-strumming vocalist Soley will be entertaining us!

Christine Gordon will get you to shake your booty!

The Festive Holiday Season in St. Barts December 2011

Thursday, December 29th, 2011

I hope that all of you had a great holiday celebration wherever you happened to be. Lots of things are going on here in St. Barts. The harbor is brimming with Mega-Yachts – a beautiful sight to see both day and night. Monday evening Steve and I decided to check out things in Gustavia. A fashion show, Ballade en Ville, on the new cobblestone rue de Général de Gaulle was scheduled to start at 8:00 pm.

A yacht sails into Gustavia Harbor to find its berth

Balade en Ville

The Fashion Show runway on rue General Charles De Gaulle

We strolled along the harbor and looked at the Christmas scene which is displayed on one of the stages on the quai. At the very same time there was a Hanukkah celebration going on and it was taking place only a few yards away on a different stage. It was fun to see that two religious groups can coexist very nicely here on St. Barts.

Christmas display on the quai

Hanukkah celebration on the quai in St. Barts December 26, 2011

After watching some of the fashion show and not having made dinner reservations, we decided to go to the Baz Bar because we love the place and they do not take reservations. We sat at a lovely table by the water and watched the Tomas Doncker Band perform. As we were concluding our delicious dinners, clients who have become great friends of ours walked by. We invited them to join us while we finished up our great bottle of Sancerre blanc (my favorite).

Jimmy Buffett along with family and friends happened to be dining at the Baz Bar too and suddenly the band was in their second set and up jumped Jimmy with his guitar. He began singing “Volcano” but changed the lyrics to describe what St. Barth is like at this time of year! What a treat for us all.

Jimmy Buffett sings Volcano at the Baz Bar December 26, 2011

Jimmy Buffett sings “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” at the Baz Bar December 26, 2011

If you come down to St.Barth, you may be one of the lucky ones to enjoy one of Jimmy’s impromptu performances. Contact reservations@stbarth.com to reserve your villa or hotel.

Tags: Baz Bar, fashion show, Jimmy Buffett, Tomas Doncker Band
Posted in Food & Wine, Parties | 1 Comment »

Les Voiles de St. Barth begins

Tuesday, April 5th, 2011

I am off to Sao Paulo Brazil for Travelweek where I am meeting with luxury travel agents for two days followed by a two day trade show with the Brazilian people. In the meantime, the second annual Les Voiles de St. Barth is underway. Organized by the St. Barth Yacht Club (SBP’s gérant (manager) Benoit Meesemaecker is the President) and sponsored by boat manufacturer, Richard Mille, the opening ceremony was fun. St. Barth’s President Bruno Magras gave the opening speech followed by a speech by Benoit. Even Jimmy Buffett gave a welcome speech. This annual event gets better and better.

Jimmy Buffett Welcome Speech at Les Voiles de St. Barth

SBP's Benoit Meesemaecker, President of the St. Barth Yacht Club

Les Voiles de St. Barth April-04-2011

The race began today and continues every day though Saturday. Over 55 boats have registered and there are 5 categories: Super/Maxi Yacht (9 boats) Classic (6 boats), Racing (15 boats), Racing-Cruising (23 boats), and Racing-Multihull (6 boats). Each evening there is a sound and light show followed by live music on the quai. You can buy some wonderful top quality commemorative clothing. And purchase a beer or a drink for only 3 euros apiece! Saturday evening April 09, 2011 is the awards ceremony followed by fireworks and live music.

Les Voiles de St. Barth 2011 Attire

You can follow the events via Livecam http://solutech.net/vsb/index1medium.html.

Les Voiles de St. Barth has become an annual event. Think about coming to St Barth in early April and join in the festivities. Better yet, why not come for the St. Barth Bucket towards the end of March and stay on for Les Voiles de St. Barth? Call us at 1-800-421-3396 or email reservations@stbarth.com .

Les Voiles sailboat

Tags: Jimmy Buffett, Les Voiles de St. Barth, St. Barth Yacht Club
Posted in Activities, St. Barth Trips | No Comments »