Travelling to St. Bart’s? Need Vaccinations?
The only small thing about St. Bart’s is its geographical size. Playground of the rich and famous, St. Bart’s exudes opulence, from the glittering port of Gustavia, to its more than 20 power white beaches. In the town of Gustavia stands the bell tower of the Eglise Catholique, which was built in 1885 with stones from St. Eustatius, and the tower of the Gustavia lighthouse. For the ideal shopping experience, visit the main street, lined with high-end boutiques and later, enjoy dining at some of the Caribbean’s finest restaurants.
One of the island’s most scenic beaches is Anse de Grande Saline, named after a large nearby salt pond, and be sure to save a special day for snorkelling at the underwater Marine Reserve. Your first stop on your way to St. Bart’s should be a visit to our Travel Health Clinic, four to eight weeks before departure, so that you will be completely safe and up-to-date with the Vaccinations you need for St. Bart’s.
What Vaccinations do I need for Travel to St. Bart’s?
Travellers to St. Bart’s are generally advised the following vaccinations:
Diphtheria Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Tetanus Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Polio Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Typhoid Vaccination
In addition, depending upon your itinerary, where you are travelling, length of travel and your occupational and lifestyle risks, you may also require vaccinations for the following:
Have a look at our pricing table for information about the cost of the travel vaccinations required for St. Bart’s. If you are travelling further in the region, you may also wish to check what vaccinations you require for neighbouring countries in the Caribbean.
Further Travel Health Advice for St. Bart’s
Heat and Humidity
St. Barts has almost perpetual sunshine and although the breezes are cooling, temperatures can rise to 30. It is important to protect your skin by using a good sun block lotion with SPF 20 or higher. Apply liberally and often. When snorkelling, take care to put extra sun block on your back. Stay hydrated and bring lots of water with you, wherever you go in St. Bart’s.
Drinking Water
The tap water in St. Bart’s is considered safe to drink, however, bottled mineral water is widely available. Remember to drink often and whether it be water or fruit juices, replenish fluids throughout the day.
Food and Drink
The choice of great restaurants makes each meal a true gastronomic adventure, whether it’s a relaxed seaside café or an elegant eatery. French cuisine is featured in many establishments, as well as Caribbean cuisine, featuring, of course, seafood and fresh fish, but there are steakhouses and beach bars offering just about any type of meal you might have a taste for. With at least 80 restaurants, the only challenge will be making a decision. An impressive selection of good French wines is available, and at reasonable prices.
Seeking Treatment Abroad
Should you require health care in St. Bart’s, there is a good hospital in Gustavia, as well as a private clinic. The standard of care is good, however, for more complicated medical procedures, many people travel to Guadeloupe. Remember that you should arrange in advance to have enough money with you to pay for any health care you might need.
Travel and Health Insurance
Protect yourself, and your family, with comprehensive travel health insurance which will cover your intended itinerary and any potentially risky activities, such as snorkelling.
Personal Safety
There is virtually no crime on this little island, so aside from observing the normal precautions, visitors are very safe in St. Bart’s.