St Barthelemy - Guidebook Chapter by Lonely Planet

Author:Lonely Planet
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Lonely Planet Publications

Culture

Most residents of St-Barth fall into one of three categories: descendants of the pioneers from Normandy who have called St-Barth home for over 300 years; mainland French setting up expensive shops and restaurants; or foreigners looking for a more relaxed lifestyle. As tourism blossomed, the first group of residents largely traded in their fishing careers for tourism-related jobs, so virtually everyone is working in hospitality of some sort.

The locals protect their slightly rustic way of life while the glitzy Hollywood types strut around next door – many natives haven’t seen their house key for years, and nor do they care whether Beyoncé is being bootylicious at the next table – but neither group seems too bothered about the other’s presence.

Despite the island’s location, the general atmosphere is much more that of a quiet seaside province in France than a jammin’ Caribbean colony.

For hundreds of years, St-Barth’s residents were too busy toiling in near-impossible conditions to create much art, thus the traditional handicrafts were largely utilitarian. Head to Corossol, St-Barth’s most ‘local’ area, and you’ll find hats and baskets woven by local women from the leaves of latanier palms. These small woven concoctions sit at the front gates to many homes, and make a great, authentic souvenir.

There are about 20 art galleries and spaces around the island devoted to exhibiting local paintings, photography and sculpture. For more information about visiting artists’ studios, stop by the Office Territorial du Tourisme (Click here ) for a detailed list.

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