Are you dreaming of your upcoming vacation to St Barths? And are you wondering what is the best currency to use during your trip?
Then, this post is exactly what you need!
St Barths is a Caribbean island located in the Northern region near to the Dutch and French Caribbean island of St Maarten and St Martin.
In this article, we will cover all things money including what are the best currencies to travel with along with travel tips to help your vacation in St Barths unforgettable.
As an overseas territory of France, the Euro is the best currency to use on the island. US dollars are accepted and it is not uncommon for invoices to also be quoted in USD dollars. Large businesses such as supermarkets, restaurants, hotels and car rentals accept credit card payments.
What Is The Official Currency of St Barths
As an overseas department of France, the official currency of St Barth is the Euro which is managed by the European Central Bank.
Bank notes are available in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euro dollars respectively. Coins are available in 1 and 2 Euro dollars and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent pieces.
It is easy to purchase Euros on the island from all the commercial banks such as Banque Nationale de Paris and Banque Francaise Commerciale.
ATM machines can be found all over the island. Kindly note that there is usually daily withdrawal limits.
Do I need cash in St Barths?
For ease of doing business with small and medium sized vendors, it is recommended that you have cash.
Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted by larger businesses such as supermarkets, hotels, car rentals and restaurants.
Can you use US dollars St Barths?
US dollars are widely accepted by all businesses around the island. It is not uncommon that certain business will provide invoices in both Euros and US dollars.
Can you use Canadian dollars in St Barths?
Canadian dollars are not accepted by businesses on the island. It is best to visit one of the commercial banks to have your bank notes converted.
For ease of completing transactions, it is wise to have at least two different pieces of identification.
Can you use a debit card in St Barths?
Debit cards can be used at all the ATMS around the island. These are accessible 24 hours daily.
Monies are dispensed in Euro dollars. When planning, remember that a fee is often charged by your bank for every transaction.
General Tips To Remember In St Barths
As an overseas territory of France, French is the official language of St Barths. Nevertheless, English is widely spoken by the natives.
St Barths is a destination that is ideal for individuals seeking a luxury shopping experience.
The capital city, Gustavia has the retail presence of many international brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Gucci and Cartier.
Ferry services are available from St Barths to both the Dutch side, St Maarten and the French side, St Martin.
For adventurous individuals, there are onward ferry connections via Makana Ferry Services to Saba, St Eustatius and St Kitts.
Additionally, there is also sea transportation available to the Eastern Caribbean island of Anguilla.
There is no international airport. Therefore, international travelers usually transit through Princess Juliana Airport in St Maarten.
Futhermore, the island attracts many celebrities and affluent individuals such as the Kardashians.
As such, the prices on the island reflect the luxurious and high end appeal of the destination.
Ensure and notify your banks prior to traveling to prevent credit cards from being blocked as you begin using it on the island.
Standard European 220 volts are required for electronic gadgets. Kindly consider bringing adapters if required.
St Barths is located within the hurricane belt and hence if you are visiting the island from June to November, it is prudent to get travel insurance.
Historically, September is the most active month of the season.
The island is known for having amazing white sand beaches with breath taking turquoise waters.
For beach enthusiasts, some of the must visit spots include Shell Beach, Colombier Beach, Gouverneur Beach and Saline Beach.
Final Thoughts
We trust that you found the information and travel tips contained in this article valuable as you plan your Caribbean escape to St Barths.
We know that if you desire tranquility, privacy, unique French cuisine and magnificent beaches, St Barths is exactly what you are looking for.
Need More Information?
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