Whether you call it St. Barts, St. Barths, or St. Barthelemy, there is no disputing that this tiny island in the French Antilles is one of the most ritzy and luxurious cruise destinations in all the world. You will not find a land rich in architecture, bargain shopping, and enormous hotels and resorts. Instead, you will find an island that is tremendously popular with the world's rich and famous, due to the fact that you will enjoy beautiful, tranquil beaches, world-class dining, and unrivaled relaxation and comfort.
St. Barthelemy was discovered in 1493 by the explorer Christopher Columbus. Its descendents are a mix of French and Swedish. The island hosts a very small local population; numbering just over 3,000, they inhabit a land that is merely 8 square miles in area.
St. Barthelemy gained its popularity as an elite tourist destination partly in response to the modern nobles of the 20th century who made this land their winter getaway. You can visit the home of David Rockefeller, who inhabited the northwest corner of the island. Edmond de Rothschild and other members of his famed family used to come here frequently as well. Today, stars such as Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, and the late John F. Kennedy Jr. have come here to unwind from the "rigors" of their everyday lives.
St. Barts only town is the tiny capital of Gustavia. Here, you will feel as if you are strolling through a miniature fantasyland, with tiny European homes and businesses dotting the capital's landscape. Here in Gustavia, you will find many fabulous restaurants serving a variety of world cuisines, as well as ritzy shopping venues to satisfy your desire for exotic clothes, jewelry, and much more.
Yet above all, , the main draw of St. Barts is still its glorious beaches. Enjoy your day on this island by relaxing on one of 14 public beaches (all the beaches in St. Barts are public). Clothing is optional, and the scenery is spectacular.