In the eastern tropical Caribbean, Gustavia stands as the only city on the island of Saint-Barthélemy, often simply called St. Barts, which is a French overseas territory. The city bears the name of the Swedish king Gustav III, a moniker acquired in 1784 when Sweden obtained the island from France in exchange for trade agreements in Gothenburg. The street names in Gustavia still bear Swedish signs, while city maps display the French names. However, the island became too expensive for the Swedes to maintain, leading to its return to French possession in 1877.

Worth seeing
Church Tower Sophia Magdalena: The oldest building on the island, the church tower Sophia Magdalena dates back to 1799. Named after the Danish princess who married King Gustav III of Sweden, the church adds a touch of history to Gustavia.
Fort Gustav: Built by the Swedes around the harbor, Fort Gustav, located at the city gate, is worth a visit despite being in ruins today. It provides a glimpse into the island's historical defenses.
Beaches: St. Barts is renowned for its extraordinary beaches, including Lorient and Villa Palm Beach, where locals and surfers converge. The city beach at Gustavia serves as a delightful hotspot for relaxation and sunbathing.

Climate
The tropical climate of St. Barts features minimal variations in temperature. Both air and water temperatures average around 27 degrees, with the air being warmer in the dry season. The island's small size allows for a mild breeze. The ever-present sun is occasionally interrupted by rain clouds during the rainy season, resulting in brief, heavy rain showers lasting around 10-15 minutes.

Currency
Euro (EUR)