Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions when traveling to the French West Indies, which includes the islands of Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country. Search under France or nearby Caribbean islands for additional basic information.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required as long as the stay is less than 90 days. Saint Barthelemy is an overseas region of France, however, it is not part of the Schengen Area.
US Embassy/Consulate
None (overseas collectivity of France); US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the US Embassy in Barbados [1] (246) 227-4000; US Embassy in Bridgetown, Wildey Business Park, St. Michael BB 14006, Barbados, WI; BridgetownACS@state.gov; https://bb.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code
590
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 17; Fire: 18; Police: 17
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical, with practically no variation in temperature; has two seasons (dry and humid)
Currency (Code)
Euros (EUR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): C, E
Major Languages
French (primary), English
Major Religions
Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jehovah's Witnesses
Time Difference
UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Colombier Beach; Anse de Grande Saline; Gustavia (includes Fort Karl, Lighthouse)
Major Sports
Rugby, yachting, kitesurfing
Cultural Practices
Celebrations of life are accompanied by a "ti-sec" shot of rum, a baked galette or traditional St. Bart breads, or sweet potato puddings.
Tipping Guidelines
Hotels usually add a service charge of 10-15%; always ask if this is included in the price quoted. Restaurants add a 15% service charge. Taxi drivers expect a tip of 10%.
Souvenirs
Straw woven items, sarongs, shell necklaces, beauty products
Traditional Cuisine
Accras — salt cod fritters served in a spicy Creole sauce
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Wednesday, November 09, 2022
