St Barths on shoe leather and a thumb

by Tom Johansmeyer on

Before I left Eden Rock, on St. Barths, in search of the local tobacconist, I was told: “You can’t get lost.” Usually, when I hear that, I wind up making some wrong turn or other directional blunder.

The route from Eden Rock to Village Creole, where I planned to cut and light a cigar at La Casa del Habano, consisted of only one road. I just didn’t notice the sprawling shopping complex as I walked past it. The light drizzle soon became rain and then a downpour as I walked in frustration, searching for a place that was behind me.

At the next available business – a bar – I cobbled together enough French to learn I’d missed the shop. Sighing as I turned, the local took pity on me and called for my attention. Sopping and defeated, I turned around to experience advice so warm it actually took the sting out of the rain. He suggested that I hitchhike back to Village Creole. And, if nobody picked me up by the time he finished his beer, he’d scoop me off the streets and deliver me to La Casa del Habano.

Somewhat uplifted, I ventured back to the sidewalk, wary of the splash threat from passing cars and trucks – I’d already fallen victim several times. It may seem like a dicey proposition, but I was told that hitchhiking is both common and safe on St. Barths. I was still nagged by the concerns of a lifetime of “Don’t talk to strangers” lectures, but I found a way to extend my thumb and arm. The first car passed, but the second picked me up. It took about two minutes to get a ride.

I never got his name, but there was hardly time. I couldn’t have been in the shotgun seat for five minutes before we reached my destination, which wasn’t as far away as I’d thought.

Kindly, the driver – who had the rugged skin, hands and muscles of a laborer but the long, curly blond hair and relaxed demeanor of Hollywood’s interpretation of a surfer – pulled into the parking space closest to the cigar shop. He asked for nothing in return for his time and trouble. Matter-of-factly, he said goodbye, and we went our separate ways.

It can be a tough leap for Americans raised to believe that hitchhiking is akin to inviting a homicide. If you want to try it once in as risk-free an environment as you’ll find, do it on St. Barths – it really is the easiest way to get around.

Disclosure: Eden Rock picked up the tab for this trip, and it would have been impossible to cover this destination otherwise, given the cost. Nonetheless, my opinions are my own – they’re certainly not for sale at any price.

Play like the rich and famous in St. Barths

by Tom Johansmeyer on

The action may not be as hot in the off season, but you can still hit the spots you’re used to seeing festooned with the mightiest of celebs. Get down to the Hotel Christopher on St. Barths this summer, and you can lock in a rate of only $388 a day … as long as you stay for a minimum of three nights through August 7, 2010. The “Sizzling Summer Savings” package includes breakfast every day and either lunch or dinner in either of the hotel’s two restaurants – Taino and Mango. A free rental car only sweetens the deal, of course.

Here’s your chance to unleash your inner luxury fanatic in the most exclusive of destinations. Give yourself the getaway you’ve always craved.

Renovation brings more hotel options to St. Barths

by Tom Johansmeyer on


Do you need a reason to St. Barths? Well, if the destination itself isn’t enough of a reason, check out the latest renovations at the Hotel Christopher. It’s tucked away on Pointe MIlou and new offers two refurbished restaurants (Taino and Mango) and a refreshed lobby and concept store, Linde Gallery. Eleven rooms have been redecorated, and the pool has been transformed completely (it’s also the largest on the island).

The next phase of the renovation comes in May, with three new suites. They will be 880 sqft each – bedroom, living room and large terrace. Also, 10 junior suites and six poolside superior rooms are on the way (to complement the 41 rooms and suites the hotel already has).

“We are extremely excited about the renovations at Hotel Christopher,” says General Manager, Christian Langlade. “Always looking for ways to enhance the overall experience, we wanted to make sure our guests experience Hotel Christopher as a luxurious home in a soothing and unique setting. With each room offering superb sea views, the exceptional dining options at Mango and Taino and the modern Caribbean decor, we feel we’ve set the bar for casual luxury on St. Barths.”

Let Eden Rock pick you up this summer

by Tom Johansmeyer on

The beauty of a recession is that the once inaccessible becomes downright affordable (assuming you haven’t been hit too hard by economic woes). At Eden Rock on St. Barth’s, you can travel like the wealthy while paying far less. The “Pick Me Up” packages is the latest example. It feels like stealing, but don’t worry: it’s perfectly legal.

When I saw the price – around $1,500 – I thought it was per person, which made sense. Eden Rock is a luxurious place, and at that price, three nights is a bargain. I took a closer look, though, and saw that that’s the price per couple! So, you pick up the three room-nights, private airport transportation to and from the resort, champagne waiting for you in your room, a gourmet breakfast every morning and the use of a car to explore St. Barth’s (and not a shitty car). And, you can take full advantage of all Eden Rock resort facilities.

All this for two people for $1,500.

I’m thinking of packing my bags now and heading down there. In addition to being a kickass destination, Eden Rock has a hot art gallery on the premises. There are only 34 rooms (“accommodations,” really) available in this six-star hotel, and privacy is valued. And, there are a handful of uber-luxury estates for guests who truly demand insanely upscale treatment, including the recently opened Villa Rockstar.

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