Just Back from Swanky St. Barths with ALL The Tips

Written By Krista Nannery

The super short runway in St. Barths…

Before I get started this week, I just want to acknowledge that this has been a tough time in the world. I know that affects how people feel about travel. It’s normal to second-guess things when the headlines are overwhelming.

That said, there are ways to travel more mindfully — and more safely — when the world feels uncertain. If you’ve got a trip on the books and your anxiety is creeping in, here are a few ways to feel more in control and protect your peace of mind:

1. Upgrade your accommodations.
If you're feeling uneasy, this might be the moment to splurge on that nicer hotel. Not just for comfort, but because 5-star hotels typically have better security, stronger infrastructure, and staff who are used to handling all kinds of situations with professionalism and discretion.

2. Book private drivers.
Not only does this eliminate the stress of figuring out transportation in an unfamiliar place, it also ensures someone is expecting you — and has your back — every step of the way.

3. Explore smaller towns and cities. I can put together an amazing trip to small towns in Italy or Portugal. Consider Slovenia, which is like a mix between Austria and Italy. The Norwegian fjords could be nice, as could the countryside of Japan.

4. Turn on Find My Friends.
If you’re traveling with others, or even solo, it’s a good idea to enable location sharing with someone you trust. It’s not about being paranoid — it’s about being prepared.

5. Buy travel insurance. And consider Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR).
Basic travel insurance is a must. But CFAR can offer an extra layer of flexibility if your gut says “this isn’t the right time to go” — even if your trip is otherwise non-refundable. CFAR can be expensive but peace of mind is priceless.

6. Check in with someone back home.
Even just a quick “Made it to the hotel!” text helps you (and your loved ones) feel better. You can also share your full itinerary with a trusted friend or family member before you leave.

7. Register your trip
US citizens should enroll in the STEP program with the State Department before departing for a trip.

8. Know that you’re not doing this alone.
If you're working with me, I’m here to help you sort through the logistics — and the emotions — of travel. If you’re unsure about a destination or need to adjust your plans, just reach out. That’s what I’m here for. Still trying to figure things out and need some help? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

Now…Let’s Talk about St. Barths

The other weekend, I was in St. Barths as a guest of the St. Barths Hotel & Villa Association and specifically, the beautiful Gyp Sea hotel. I had met the Sales & PR manager for Gyp Sea last year in West Palm beach and she was kind enough to invite me to experience the island in person. You can check out my Instagram for posts from my trip!

Did you know that there are only about 600 hotel rooms on all of St. Barths. And only around 600 villas to rent!

Yes, it’s a small island. But it’s also an exclusive one. There is only one 4 star hotel on the entire island. Everything else is 5 star!

The runway at the airport in St. Barths is so short that you have to have a special license to land there. Also, only really small planes can land in St. Barths. I flew in from San Juan, Puerto Rico and there were just 8 seats on my plane! (And a picnic basket with snacks at the back. Experienced flyers know it’s there and will share the love. Newbies don’t know about the picnic basket so you gotta prompt them.)

St. Barths is a very unique place. You don’t really go to St. Barths to sit on a beach. You go for the shopping and the restaurants and beach clubs. There may be some dancing on tables involved — for those that are so inclined.

The pretty rooms at Gyp Sea St. Barths

The Gyp Sea Hotel is one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever stayed in. I rank the interior design up there with Sea Island in Georgia. The decor is so unique — there’s always something to look at.

The Gyp Sea villas, dotted along the hilltop.

I had my own little villa at the top of Gyp Sea’s hill with pretty views out across the water. The hotel has a small pool and spa. Importantly, there is also a shuttle to Gyp Sea Beach Club in St. Jean. The Beach Club is a total vibe. I loved it! So much fun. (Basically, a place to go for lunch and to lie on a sunbed — with great service!)

St. Barths is a French island so if you are missing France right now, consider visiting St. Barths instead where you can rose all day. You can get to St. Barths like I did by flying Tradewind from San Juan. (50 minute flight.) You can also take a 10 minute flight from St. Maarten. There’s a ~1hour ferry from St. Maarten, but if you have any form of seasickness, you should take Dramamine or wear a patch.

While in St. Barth, I also toured two other hotels:

Hotel Christopher
Tucked away on the quieter, wilder side of the island, Christopher is the kind of place you go when you want to disappear—but in a stylish, well-fed, and perfectly pampered kind of way. No beach, but the oceanfront infinity pool and Sisley Spa more than make up for it. (The pool and spa are both the largest on the island.) The vibe is low-key luxe with a French accent. The room decor is very simple, maybe with a slight Asian twist.

Le Barthélemy
Le Barthélemy strikes that rare balance: elegant but unpretentious. Set right on the soft sands of Grand Cul de Sac, it’s ideal if you’re into paddleboarding, toes-in-the-sand breakfasts, and modern rooms that actually feel soothing. Great for couples, friend groups, or anyone who wants to lean into the good life—without trying too hard. This property has a nice sense of place. It also feels very kid-friendly given the shallow bay.

There are a few other properties I’d love to visit in St. Barths. I may be returning to the island later this year on a different trip and will try to check out Eden Roc, Cheval Blanc, The Tropical, and The Rosewood.

We visited a few different restaurants in St. Barths but Le Cafe and Beefbar were really my favorites. Along with the Gyp Sea Beach Club of course!

I also toured two villas with a new villa partner in St. Barths. If you’re interested in this, let me know!

Nearly all of the hotel properties on St. Barths are Virtuoso properties where I can add perks and amenities to your stay. If they are not Virtuoso, I have relationships with all of the properties through their sales reps, which should result in a more enjoyable stay!

Ready to book St. Barths for your next getaway? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

P.S. Confused if it’s St. Barth, St. Bart, St. Barth’s, or St. Barths? So is everyone else. I went with the more French version!

About Krista

I’m a Virtuoso luxury travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Prior to moving to Florida to take care of my elderly mom with Parkinson’s Disease, I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England. My career and personal travel have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others as a Virtuoso travel advisor. I offer a 30 minute complimentary vacation consultation for anyone looking to plan their next trip.

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Krista Nannery
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