Gustavia, St. Barthelemy: 29 Dec 2008 to 30 Dec 2008

Tiny St. Barts, short for St. Barthélémy, is a delightful blend of French élan and Swedish traditionalism. Toy-scaled Gustavia, founded by the French, ceded to the Swedish, then returned to France, is wrapped around the horseshoe-shaped harbor.

A large percentage of the inhabitants are descendants of settlers from Brittany, Normandy and Sweden, who often pay homage to their heritage in the décor of the island's inns, cafés and boutiques. The island's twenty beaches, rolling hills and deep, green valleys help attract visitors appreciative of its relaxed ambiance and chic charm.

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