Anthem
Recording: United States Navy Band · Public domain (U.S. government work) · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visitor guide
History
St Barth was French, then Swedish from 1784 to 1878, which is why its capital is called Gustavia. It is now a French overseas collectivity.
Culture
The island is known for luxury, yachting and a glamorous New Year's Eve. Old traditions survive in the Norman-French heritage of its families.
Languages & Creoles
French is the official language. Some locals speak a Norman-derived patois or a French creole.
Currency
The euro (EUR).
Popular Attractions
Beaches such as Shell Beach, Saline and Gouverneur are famous. The short airport runway makes landing a memorable experience.
Food
Fine French dining and fresh seafood dominate. Creole accras and boudin are local favourites.
Places to Visit
Gustavia, St Jean, Saline, Gouverneur and Colombier.
More of the Caribbean
English-speaking Caribbean
Spanish-speaking Caribbean
French-speaking Caribbean
Dutch-speaking Caribbean
Additional Caribbean Coastal Areas
Colombia—Caribbean coast; San Andrés and Providencia
Venezuela—Caribbean coast and islands
Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro
Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
Nicaragua—Caribbean coast; Corn Islands
Honduras—Caribbean coast; Bay Islands
Guatemala—Caribbean coast; Livingston
Mexico—Caribbean coast; Cozumel and Isla Mujeres