10 Unbeatable Perks of Living in St Barts

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So, you’re considering living in St Barts? Well, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows… Oh, wait—actually, it practically is!

Saint Barts, that tiny slice of paradise in the Caribbean, is more than just a vacation spot. It’s a luxurious destination where everyday life feels like a never-ending holiday. With endless stunning beaches, a friendly community, and a year-round tropical climate, Saint Barts offers a lifestyle that most people can only dream of.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of moving to a place where life feels like one long vacation consider living in St Barts. Here are 10 reasons why this tropical island might just be the perfect place for you to call home.

1. Stunning beaches and idyllic scenery

Endless beaches are one of the biggest reasons for living in St Barts

Imagine waking up every morning to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. Beachfront living is a dream come true here, where the stunning white sand beaches are never too far away. And speaking of beaches, you’ll have access to a wide range of them by living in St. Barts. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from sunbathing to snorkeling to paddleboarding.

On land, scenic hikes await, offering breathtaking views of the island’s lush landscapes. And let’s not forget about the sunsets and sunrises that paint the sky in vibrant hues, creating a magical atmosphere. Saint Barts also offers a sense of relaxation and tranquility, where you can unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

2. Safety and security

Saint Barts boasts impressively low crime rates, making it one of the safest places to live. The island has a strong police presence, ensuring that residents and visitors alike feel protected. In the event of an emergency, the island is equipped with efficient and reliable emergency services, providing prompt assistance when needed.

Personal safety is of utmost importance, with well-lit streets and a close-knit community that looks out for one another. The strong sense of community support adds an extra layer of security, creating a welcoming and secure environment for all.

3. Year-round tropical climate

Boats bobbing in the brilliant blue water in the middle of a town. High end living in St. Barts.

You’ll love the year-round tropical climate in Saint Barts. Like most Caribbean islands, you can bask in the warm sunshine and enjoy the gentle ocean breezes 12 months a year.

There are many advantages of residing in a tropical environment, too. With abundant sunlight and warm temperatures year-round, outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sailing are always an option, and you know you’ll always get your daily dose of Vitamin D.

However, there are a few challenges to consider, including high humidity, the risk of hurricanes, and the constant need to protect yourself from sunburn.

The mild climate also means that you won’t have to worry about the cold winter months. You can spend time outdoors in comfort, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes. With its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and blooming tropical flowers, Saint Barts is truly a paradise for nature lovers.

4. Abundant outdoor activities

Living in this tropical paradise means there’s never a shortage of exciting outdoor activities to keep you entertained. Saint Barts offers an abundance of options for those looking to explore the great outdoors. The island is home to a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

If you’re a water sports enthusiast, you’ll be in heaven with numerous opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and sailing in crystal-clear waters. For cycling enthusiasts, there are plenty of scenic routes to pedal along and take in the island’s stunning beauty.

Wildlife exploration is also a popular pastime, with opportunities to spot colorful birds and marine life. And if you’re into staying fit, you’ll love the outdoor fitness activities available, from yoga on the beach to beach volleyball. With so much to do, you’ll never have a dull moment in Saint Barts.

5. High quality of life

Rainbow in front of the harbor for the town of Gustavia hills in the background.

Saint Barts is a high-priced vacation spot known for its unparalleled standard of living in the luxury sector. This island paradise has everything, ranging from luxury resorts that cater to your every desire to high-end shopping boutiques that offer the latest fashion and luxury goods.

Because it caters to the rich, Saint Barts is also known for its celebrity sightings, where you might just cross paths with your favorite Hollywood star. Just like them, you can enjoy a life of extravagance and opulence where every moment is marked with refinement and luxury.

St. Barts has been popular with A-listers for decades, and many famous people call the island home. Countless celebrities and wealthy businessmen are living in St Barts thanks to the island’s renowned spas, five-star restaurants, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters.

ⓘ TIP: There’s a good chance you’ll run into a famous person if you visit St Barths on New Year’s Eve. That’s when the largest yachts arrive. Just don’t ask for an autograph; it’s considered bad manners.

St Barth’s has the finest cuisine at world-class restaurants that boast Michelin-star chefs and breathtaking views. And let’s not forget about the yachting scene, where you can cruise along crystal-clear waters and explore hidden coves.

As far as the environment goes, St. Barts is surrounded by nature and there is next to no noise pollution. In other words, you will always breathe clean air.

6. Excellent healthcare

In Saint Barts, there are numerous healthcare facilities available to provide you with medical assistance. You can find a private diagnostic facility in most towns of the region, along with proficient general medical practitioners and specialists, ensuring optimal healthcare services.

In addition, there are many pharmacies, dentists, pediatricians, and other medical professionals practicing on St. Barts. This means that patients may not have to travel to Europe or the United States for medical treatment, unlike some other Caribbean islands.

7. Real estate and investment opportunities

Luxury home on a rocky hill overlooking the Caribbean. Beach in foreground.

The Saint Barts real estate market offers endless potential, whether you envision a dream vacation home, a lucrative investment property, or the opportunity to build a house in St Barth and retire.

One of the island’s most attractive aspects is that you can own property as a foreigner. There are absolutely no restrictions on foreign buyers. You won’t need to buy or hold the property through a proxy and the purchase process is relatively straightforward.

Thanks to its popularity as a tourist destination, Saint Barts also offers a lucrative opportunity for investors seeking rental income. The island’s real estate market is booming, and its high-end properties are in demand from wealthy tourists who want to enjoy luxurious holidays.

Furthermore, property values in Saint Barts have a tendency to appreciate over time. As a result, real estate ownership is a financially rewarding venture.

8. Welcoming and friendly community

St. Barts Island may be small, but that doesn’t stop the tight-knit community from creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Here, people feel a strong sense of belonging. The residents of Saint Barts are very supportive, and always willing to assist their neighbors in times of need.

Regular social events provide an excellent opportunity to meet and connect with friendly neighbors, fostering lasting friendships. Beach bonfires, local festivals, and community fundraisers mean that there is always something going on that brings people together.

The sense of belonging in Saint Barts is palpable, and people who live in St Barts have created a supportive environment where everyone is welcomed with open arms. This inclusivity makes it easy to feel like a part of the community, even as a newcomer.

9. Vibrant culture and festivals

Wooden sign that says St. Bart's

Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant energy and cultural richness, where every street corner is alive with the rhythms of music and the colors of celebration. Saint Barts is not only known for its high-quality lifestyle and luxury living, but it also boasts a vibrant culture and a calendar full of festivals and local celebrations.

Cultural traditions are deeply ingrained in the fabric of daily life, and the island takes pride in showcasing its artistic expressions. From the annual Saint Barth Summer Sessions, where renowned musicians from around the world gather to perform, to the Saint Barth Film Festival, which highlights local and international cinema, there is no shortage of cultural events to attend.

The community is actively involved in these celebrations, fostering a sense of togetherness and creating an atmosphere that truly reflects the island’s vibrant spirit.

10. Creative culinary scene

If you’re a food enthusiast looking for a place to call home, you’ll be delighted by the international cuisine and culinary scene in Saint Barts. This Caribbean gem hosts culinary festivals throughout the year, showcasing the best of its gastronomic offerings.

From fresh local seafood to traditional French dishes with a Caribbean twist, the fusion cuisine here is simply outstanding. Saint Barts offers a variety of Michelin-starred restaurants for those who enjoy fine dining. Although, If you want to sharpen your culinary skills, you can also find cooking classes taught by talented local chefs.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a paradise to call home, Saint Barts is the place for you. With its stunning beaches and idyllic scenery, you’ll feel like you’re living in a dream.

The welcoming and friendly community will make you feel right at home, and the year-round tropical climate will keep you in a perpetual state of bliss.

Whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities, indulging in international cuisine, or taking advantage of real estate and investment opportunities, Saint Barts offers a high-quality lifestyle that’s truly a feast for the senses.

So come, dive into this island gem, and watch your dreams bloom like flowers in a sun-kissed garden.

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The town of Gustavia at sunset. The text overlay says "Should you move to St. Barts?"

Frequently asked questions about living in St. Barts

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What is St Barts’ real name?

St. Barts is short for Saint Barthélemy, and its official name is the Collectivité territoriale de Saint-Barthélemy. It may also be written as St. Barth, St. Barthelemy, Saint Barth, or Saint Barts.

Is St Barts a country?

St Barts belongs to France. It is located in the French West Indies but is an overseas collectivity which means it has a certain level of self-governance. It is important to note that Saint Barthélemy is not an independent country, and its residents have no intention of separating from France.

Where is St Barts located?

St. Barthélemy is located at 17°55 North and 62°50 West in the northeastern corner of the Caribbean Sea. It is part of the Lesser Antilles in the area known as the Leeward Islands.

How do I get to St Barts?

St. Barts is a popular cruise ship stop and a favorite port for private yachts and sailboat charters. To reach the destination by air, the closest major commercial airport is located on St. Martin (SXM). From there, you can either take a short 12-minute flight to St Barts or take the Great Bay Express ferry (45 minutes).

Why should I move to St. Barth?

St Barth is a popular luxury destination that attracts visitors from around the globe. The Caribbean Island offers secure and private access to stunning white sandy beaches, exceptional dining options, and numerous activities.

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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