Blason Saint Bathelemy
- Overview: “Blason Saint Barthélémy.” The term “Blason” usually refers to a coat of arms or emblem, while “St Barthélémy” refers to the French overseas collectivity of Saint Barthélemy, often abbreviated as St. Barts or St. Barths.
- Location: St. Barthélemy is situated in the northeastern Caribbean, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of Saint Martin and north of St. Kitts and Nevis.
- Territorial Status: It is an overseas collectivity of France, meaning it is officially part of France but located outside of the European continent. As such, French is the official language, and the island uses the Euro as its currency.
- Size and Population: St. Barthélemy covers an area of just 25 square kilometers (9.7 square miles), making it one of the smallest islands in the Caribbean. As of the latest available data, the population is around 10,000 inhabitants.
- Capital: Gustavia is the capital and main town of St. Barthélemy. It is known for its picturesque harbor, upscale shops, and restaurants.
- Tourism: St. Barthélemy is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning beaches, and high-end tourism industry. It attracts affluent visitors from around the world, particularly during the winter season.
- Culture and Heritage: The island has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its French colonial history. It celebrates traditional French holidays and events while also incorporating elements of Caribbean culture.
- Natural Beauty: St. Barthélemy boasts beautiful landscapes, including lush hillsides, rocky cliffs, and pristine beaches. Popular beaches include St. Jean, Flamands, and Colombier.
- Economy: Tourism is the primary driver of the island’s economy, with high-end tourism, luxury accommodations, and yacht charters playing significant roles. St. Barthélemy also benefits from its status as a tax haven.
- Hurricane Vulnerability: Like many Caribbean islands, St. Barthélemy is susceptible to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November. The island has experienced significant damage from hurricanes in the past.
- Local Government: St. Barthélemy has a local government with limited autonomy within the French system. It is governed by a territorial council and overseen by a prefect appointed by the French government.