Who can resist the lure of white sandy beaches and pristine blue waters? The island of Saint Barthélemy, better known as St. Barths, is a little corner of paradise tucked away in the Caribbean—and is among the most beautiful vacation spots on the planet. Enjoy the laid-back beach lifestyle while taking in the breathtaking view of the ocean. Or, if you are the more adventurous type, the island offers plenty of water sports and adrenaline rushes.
St. Barths Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
If you are still wondering about the details of purchasing the best St. Barths travel insurance or travel medical insurance, these basic tips will clear up any doubts.
Do I need travel medical insurance for St. Barths?
While the government does not make it mandatory for travelers to have health insurance coverage for St. Barths, it has rules regarding vaccinations (especially yellow fever). Check to see if your country is on the list of countries exempt from this requirement. However, we suggest that getting vaccinated and purchasing travel medical insurance are wise decisions anyway, whether or not they are legally required.
Why buy travel medical insurance for St. Barths?
Travel insurance while on vacation in a foreign country is a must to protect against the financial liability of injuries, accidents, illnesses, or other health conditions. So, while planning your trip, make sure that you buy an adequate travel medical insurance plan that covers all the risks you might face at St. Barths.
After all, better safe than sorry.
Things to Do for Travelers in St. Barths
From the various opportunities that St. Barths has in store for travelers to enjoy, we have picked just a few of the most popular and beloved. The list is endless, but this is a good starting point.
- Beaches galore: Believe it or not, there are 16 beaches on this little island. From Saline Beach to Colombier Beach to Nikki Beach, you can choose among these sandy havens to either relax or have wild parties. There’s something for everyone here.
- Parties at the beach bars: No beach vacation is complete without wild, glamorous parties under the starry sky. St. Barths’ beach bars are known worldwide and have hosted countless celebrities who head here to kick back, relax, and party through the night.
- Spend a day shopping at Gustavia: Named after Fort Gustav, this region is the best go-to for some retail therapy. From high-end fashion labels to adorable local souvenirs, you will find everything here. So, catch up on some serious shopping while at St. Barths. You can always take a well-earned rest at one of the chic cafes and restaurants that frequented by jet setters for a chill afternoon drink.
- Water sports at Anse de Grand Cul de Sac: This one's for all the adrenaline-junkies. The Anse de Grand Cul de Sac is the best beach in St. Barths to enjoy adventure sports. You can try out kayaking, scuba diving, jet skiing, fly fishing, and wind surfing here in the warm, clear water. Get ready to make your vacation as action-packed and exciting as it gets.
- Bay of St. Jean: While you are in St. Barths, you cannot miss spending a day at the Bay of St. Jean. This idyllic beach with clear shallow waters protected by a reef is ideal for snorkeling and windsurfing. Put on your wetsuit and enjoy diving down to the seabed.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in St. Barths
Watch out for these risks specific to travel to St. Barths. Plan in advance to make sure that you are well-prepared for any eventuality.
- Food- or water-borne diseases: Some Caribbean regions have contaminated water that can cause food poisoning or diseases like cholera, typhoid or diarrhea.
- Insect-borne diseases: Any St. Barths travel insurance plan should cover diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and malaria, usually caused by insect bites.
- Adventure sports: If you are participating in extreme sports or adventure activities at St. Barths, ensure that the service provider is appropriately licensed and registered. Getting a travel insurance package for St. Barths that covers adventure sports risks is a good idea if you plan to partake.
- The only way to reach the island is by chartered plane or a ferry from St. Maarten. The plane ride is not for the weak-hearted, and the tiny airstrip is enough to make even the bravest travelers nervous.
Before You Travel to St. Barths - Do This
Keep these points in mind, as they are crucial for your trip to St. Barths.
- All visitors require a passport to enter the country. There are no exemptions to this rule.
- Your passport’s expiration date must be at least six months after your return from St. Barths.
- If you are planning to travel with pets, make sure to clear it with your hotel or villa in advance. Most places do not allow pets, and you may have to sign some documents before you bring them onto the island.