Currency: The French franc (FF) is legal tender, but US dollars are widely accepted. The exchange rate is roughly 4.7 FF to the 1 US dollar.

Language: French is the official language of St. Barts and locals speak a type of French that's an old Norman dialect. Most people, including shopkeepers and restaurant staff, speak English, however.

Electricity: Voltage is 220 AC, 60 cycles. American made appliances require a transformer as well as French plug converters.

Sources of information: Before your trip, contact "France on Call," for brochures and questions, 877-956-1234, or write the French Government Tourist Office nearest you:

444 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10022

9454 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 715
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
310-271-6665

676 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 3360
Chicago, IL 60611
312-751-7800

1981 Ave. McGill College (490)
Montreal, Quebec H3A 2W9
514-288-4264

30 St. Patrick St., Suite 700
Toronto, Ontario M5T 3A3
416-593-6427

While on the island, stop by the visitors center in Gustavia. The Office du Tourisme is locate on the Quai Général de Gaulle just steps from the harbor. The office is open 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 to noon on Saturdays during peak season; somewhat shorter hours during summer months. Stop by for brochures and maps in both French and English and helpful assistance about any tourist needs. You can also write the local office at Office du Tourisme, Quai General de Gaulle, Gustavia, 97133 St. Barthelemy, French West Indies, 590-27-87-27, fax 590-27-74-47, or email odtstbarth@europost.org.

While on island, you can pick up a good deal of free information about what's happening. St. Barth Magazine, available at the tourism office, includes good information. Ti Gourmet offers tips on dining.

Web Address: www.st-barths.com