ST. BARTS

Whether the two of you call it St. Barts, St. Barth, or St. Bathélemy, you'll find this charming island to be tres chic. At just nine square miles, this isle packs a lot of punch in the world of the glitterati, perhaps more than any other Caribbean destination. Especially during the peak winter months, don't be surprised to see celebrities wandering the streets of Gustavia, enjoying a glass of fine French wine in an open-air restaurant, or puttering around the island in a little vehicle called a Mini-Moke.

Without a doubt, St. Barts attracts the high end market and its prices reflect this crowd. Prices are some of the highest in the Caribbean in terms of accommodations, dining, and transportation. A look at the merchandise of the little shops in the capital city of Gustavia will also confirm this island's typical price tags.

But St. Barts does have a somewhat different package to offer. Much more so than French St. Martin, this island is rich with the spirit of French élan. While you'll find that most shopkeepers, taxi drivers, and restaurateurs speak English and the American dollar is welcomed most places, this is definitely an outpost of France. Enjoy a taste of Europe with a hearty dash of Caribbean sunshine.

St. Barth visitors fall into two categories: day trippers and overnighters. Day trippers arrive, by prop plane or by boat, from St. Martin to enjoy a morning and afternoon of shopping, touring, and lunch at one of the many French eateries. Overnighters are typically well-heeled, eager for the exclusive getaway that this island can provide.

St. Barts is shaped somewhat like a boomerang, with the two points facing northward. The capital city of Gustavia is located on the southwestern side of the island and boasts one of the prettiest harbors in the Caribbean. The u-shaped harbor is dotted with yachts whose white sails yield a stark contract to the green hills punctuated by traditional red roofs around the town.

Northwest of Gustavia like the community of Colombier, home of many older women who still can be seen wearing traditional clothing such as the white bonnet. On the beach, the traditional village of Corossol, home to many of the island's fishermen.

North of Gustavia, you can travel across the island to the community of Saint Jean, home of the island's first hotel. Today this region is home to many of the island's watersports on the Baie de St.-Jean. East of St. Jean lies the community of Lorient, a small village located on the beautiful Anse de Lorient. Continuing east, Marigot is the home of many of the island's gourmet restaurants. This region is also the location of some of the island's most beautiful bays and beaches: Anse de Marigot, Grand Cul de Sac, and Petit Cul de Sac.

South of here lies Grand Fond, a favorite stop for scuba divers. Home to just 200 residents, this village is home to many traditional limestone homes.