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Vol 5, No 37:
St. Barth’s - What to do and where to stay
 
Check out our DGAE Library featuring:

Insider reviews of unique experiences from VIP supercar tours of Italy, treks to see the Polar Bears, safaris in Africa, Cuba by private jet and previews of top suites and villas at hotels and resorts across the USA, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brasil, Cambodia, China, Costa Rica, Ecuador, England, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Seychelles, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Switzerland, Tahiti, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, Vietnam, plus on the high seas aboard Regent Seven Seas Explorer, Seaboard Encore, Crystal Esprit, Crystal Mozart, Crystal Symphony, Norwegian Breakaway, Celebrity Edge, and Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

It’s time to St. Barth’s


If it’s getting cold where you are - or not - St. Barth’s is one of those places you need to go at least once. 

Of course, many come back annually. 

In this week’s issue, I tapped the top travel advisors at SmartFlyer, including Katie Frederick Jacobson, Kara Slater, Kyle Slater, Julie Palo Hayes, and Kimberly Gavin, for their insights to all the hot spots on this island where France means the Caribbean at the highest level of luxury while you enjoy the feel of sand between your toes.

We also give you a look at the top suites in the best properties. 

I hope all of your travels are amazing!

All the best,

Doug Gollan

Founder/Editor
dougollan@dgamazingexperiences.com



 
Find The Best Private Aviation Solutions For You 
On-Demand Charter. Jet Cards. Fractional Ownership. 

Subscribe today and we can help you and your team make sure you and your company are finding the best private aviation solutions for your unique flying needs. 

What you get:


– Best Charter Brokers Guide – A curated guide to on-demand charter brokers that identifies 84 brokers and floating fleet operators that exceed industry standards.

– Jet Card Comparisons Guide – Comparison by 65+ variables of over 300 Jet Card programs, including sourcing standards for aircraft and pilots, service areas, Wifi availability, hourly rates, and hidden charges.

– Quick Compare Flight Pricing – A comparison of Jet Card pricing for over 150 national fixed-rate jet card programs. It calculates hourly rates plus daily and segment minimums, taxes, taxi time, memberships fees, peak day surcharges, fuel surcharges, and deicing so users can contrast fully loaded flight costs in second.  

–  Aircraft Performance Guide – Compare over 150 private jet types by range, speed, seating capacity, baggage and cabin space, including cabin height.

— VIP Jet Card Decider — Our personal service available to help you figure out which solutions and providers are right for you and your company.

 



Table of Contents 

A.    Private Aviation Headlines, including 
B     Private Jet Performance Guide ranking over 150 aircraft by size, range, speed, cabin, and baggage space
C.    Before You Buy Reports - Jets, Yachts, Villas
D.    The Ultimate Restaurant Guide for Private Jet Travelers

St. Barth’s - What to do and where to stay  
1.  Overview
2.  Beach Hopping
3.  For Lunch
4.  Dinner Hot Spots
5.  Late Night
6.  Where To Stay
7.  Getting There
8.  Executive Security Report
9.  Jet Card Insider Reports
10. Best Of DG Amazing Experiences Library



A.  Private Aviation Headlines

1.    Delta Private Jets set 40% discount on Skyaccess
2.    Private Jet Services acquires The Flight Exchange
3.    Paramount launches private jet carbon-offset calculator
4.    Magellan Jets launches Holiday Gift Box
5.    Fly Aeolus adds three Cirrus SR22s
6.    Sentient Jets expands Wifi to midsize and above
7.    XO launches new membership tier
8.    Explaining Part 135 - and what you need to know
9.    Why do some private jet flights hug the coast?
10.   How to make sure you aren’t flying on an illegal charter
11.  Flexjet sells G650 shares by the day
12.   NetJets, Flexjet, VistaJet - Comparing the branded large cabin options
13.   Is NetJets worth the price?

Special Reports:

1.   Comparing the Private Jet Sharing Options
2.   Understanding Part 135
3.   Fractional Ownership and Leases - The Pros, Cons and Options
4.   On-Demand Charter vs. Jet Cards - Which One Is Right For You? 
5.   How Not To Get Burned When Buying A Private Jet Membership Program




Jet Card Buyer’s Tips

1.  Buyer’s Tip #1  Know the company behind your program
2.  Buyer’s Tip #2  Fixed rates or dynamic pricing?
3.  Buyer’s Tip #3  Do I need guaranteed availability?
4.  Buyer’s Tip #4  Make sure your program’s Primary Service Area matches your flight
5.  Buyer’s Tip #5  What you need to know about Peak Days
6.  Buyer’s Tip #6  Roundtrip and one-way pricing




B. Private Jet Performance Guides
(provided by Conklin & de Decker)

Range
Compare Light Jets by range
Compare Midsize Jets by range
Compare Large Cabin Jets by range

Baggage Capacity

Compare Light Jets by baggage capacity
Compare Midsize Jets by baggage capacity
Compare Large Cabin Jets by baggage capacity

Fastest and Slowest

Compare Light Jets by speed
Compare Midsize Jets by speed
Compare Large Cabin Jets by speed

Cabin Size Compared

Compare Light Jets by cabin size
Compare Midsize Jets by cabin size
Compare Large Cabin Jets by cabin size





C.  Before You Buy Reports

1.  Before you charter a superyacht
2.  Before you rent a villa
3.  Before you charter a private jet
4.  Before you buy a jet card

Partner Promotion:
Los Cabos Villa Spotlight from Elegant Mexico


Encompassing 12,000 sq. ft of interior living space with eight bedrooms all with private en-suite bathrooms, dressing areas, and patios, Casa Luna Escondida is ideal for either extended families, couples or friends groups. There is a full-size addition to the spectacular pool with shallow shaded lounging areas and two of the guest casitas have their own private plunge pools. In addition to state-of-the-art technology, your staff includes a house manager, butler, chef and concierge services.



Located in the private resort community of Villas Del Mar this home has welcomed many high profile guests, from celebrity entertainers and royalty to Fortune 500 CEOs, looking for the privacy and anonymity that cannot be found at traditional resorts. For more information, click this link or call Elegant Mexico at +1 949.388.8590 ext. 200.



D.  The Ultimate Restaurant Guide for Private Jet Travelers

With the help of our friends, we’ve curated a list of 143 restaurants in 60 cities around-the-world that each has memorable views, cuisine to match, and are all located on the top floors or rooftops of leading hotels. 



In other words, if you are on a tight schedule, don’t worry about fighting traffic. Dinner (or lunch) is just an elevator ride away, like your private jet, saving you time. For the entire list, click here.



Partner Promotion:
Turks & Caicos Villa Spotlight from HostedVillas


The opulent La Dolce Vita Villa sits on the shores of Provo’s Long Bay Beach. Featuring a striking modern design both inside and out, the villa stretches out over more than 12,300 sq. ft. and offers more than 430 feet of beachfront. With 2 oceanfront pools and 2 oceanfront hot tubs, chances are you’ll find yourself frequently gazing out to sea, either watching the sunrise with your morning coffee or watching it set, all the time surrounded by family and friends. And as this villa features a total of 9 bedrooms, there’s certainly room for everyone. Take a 3-D Tour or for more information visit HostedVillas or contact Aurélie Gilles, Experience Manager, aurelie@hostedvillas.com mobile 647-523-4275 or office 1-800-374-6637 Ext. 310
 

St. Barth’s: Where To Stay and What To Do 
 
 
1. Overview
An island notorious for drawing a discerning crowd, St. Barth’s is a destination with no shortage of glamour.  There’s a reason that travelers return year after year, after all. But for the first-timer, it can be difficult to know where to begin; and that’s where we come in!

With its white sand, turquoise water, and bougainvillea lined pathways, St Barth’s is teeming with rainbow-hued doll-sized houses, sheltered coves, and world-class dining. From its impeccable hotels to chic party scene that starts well before the sun goes down – did someone say daytime bottle service at Nikki Beach?

From the pros at SmartFlyer, including Katie Frederick Jacobson, Kara Slater, Kyle Slater, Julie Palo Hayes, and Kimberly Gavin, here’s a quick guide to the best of St. Barth’s.

2. Beach Hopping



St-Jean: Located in front of the iconic Eden Rock Hotel, you'll love this spot for its buzzy atmosphere and prime viewing point to watch the planes come and go. As a bonus, there are lots of shops within walking distance, and St Jean is kid-friendly.

Colombier: Accessible by a rugged three-minute hike or by boat, Colombier is easily one of the island’s best beach, and a favorite swimming beach. If you’re planning on staying for a while, pack a picnic lunch and an umbrella.

Gouverneur: This is one of SmartFlyer's favorite beaches for a picnic lunch and swimming. It’s a bit of a drive, but the seclusion and privacy make it worth it.

Petit Cul de Sac: It’s recommended going with a guide for the super Instagram-worthy hike to the natural tide pools (below).



Saline: This is where the locals go; it is a bit of a walk from parking to get to the beach and clothing is optional.

Shell Beach: Located right in front of Shellona, this is the perfect spot to spend the afternoon and linger after lunch, grab a spot and stay awhile. It makes for an ideal spot to watch the sun go down on a perfect day.

3. For Lunch

Nikki Beach (pictured below): On Sundays, the posh beach club turns into a table-dancing day party complete with bottle service, model-esque waiters, and oversize sushi boats. Stay through the weekend, you don’t want to miss this one.



Le Toiny: Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, don’t miss the hidden paradise on Toiny Bay. The menu rotates regularly and offers dishes based on fish, grilled meat and refreshing salads. Enjoy a truly relaxing foot in the sand, lunch under the Paillottes.

Fish Corner: One of the newest additions to the island in downtown Gustavia, everything here is fresh and delicious, perfect for when you want a low-key spot to go between shopping.

L’Isoletta: For an easy Roman lunch, try this little Italian trattoria-style spot in the heart of Gustavia. L’Isoletta is the little sister of L’Isola, one of the most popular and renowned restaurants on the island, so you can bet that the pizza and pasta is top-notch.

Shellona: Watch the sunset with your feet in the sand at the revamp of beach bar Do Brazil, an island institution. The Shellona sunset is a little flashier than its former iteration, but that’s fine. Nature is the real star here.

4. Dinner Hot Spots

Bonito (pictured below): Book early for Latin-French fare in the form of ceviche, tiraditos, and an abundance of truffle oil, plus an extensive menu of creative cocktails served alongside unbeatable views of Gustavia Harbor.



Tamarin: Island favorite set in a magical garden under the shade of a 200-year-old tamarind tree. A local favorite with a distinct French-Thai vibe.

L’Isola: Beloved by both locals and visitors, this Southern Italian favorite is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. You won’t be sitting by the sea, but you’ll also get some of the best dishes on the island.

Le Guerite: This local gem transports you to St Tropez. Make a reservation for Saturday night,

5. Late Night

Bagatelle: An offshoot of the original in New York, gets similarly rowdy, minus the costumes



Le Ti (pictured above)  The raucous, kitschy nightclub is a rite of passage for first-timers. Waiters whisk you into a secret backroom, set you up with costumes like you’re going to Coachella, and send you off onto the dance floor.

6. Where To Stay

Whether you’re looking for a hillside romantic hideaway or a chic party scene, St Barth’s has it all. Below are the picks from SmartFlyer with a look inside the top suites and villas at each.

Cheval Blanc Isle de France

Cheval Blanc Isle de France is elegant, romantic, private, and perfect for both couples and chic families alike, not to mention that it’s located on Flamands beach, one of the island’s best.

Part of the LVMH luxury empire (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Hublot, and now Belmond Hotels), 61 rooms, suites and villas are set amidst gardens and white sand beach.

2-Bedroom Beach Suite

Like many of the hotels here, since they are not cookie-cutters so to speak, the suites can vary, so a good reason to use a professional travel advisor. 



The 1,720 sq. ft. 2-Bedroom Beach Suite boasts a spacious living room and dining room, private terraces, multiple indoor and outdoor lounge areas, and a private pool or hot tub overlooking the bay. The two master bedrooms host ensuite bathrooms with a bathtub and rain shower and large separate dressing rooms. 

Eden Rock Hotel 

The Eden Rock Hotel is perfect for couples and families alike who leans towards splashy rockstar villas and a lively vibes just down the beach from their rooms. 

It’s part of Oetker Collection, which includes Le Bristol in Paris, Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc in Antibes, The Lanesborough in London, and Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden among others.

There are numerous unique suites - enough to fill an entire issue. 

Christopher Columbus Suite



Located in the principal house perched on the top of the rock with its endless views across St Jean Bay. The one-bedroom 2,200 sq. ft. suite features oak wooden floors throughout, an invitingly oversized 87-inch bed, art contemporary designer furniture, and a library.  

The spa bathroom connects to large walk-in dressing rooms with make-up tables. There are state-of-the-art entertainment systems and an extensive private bar stocked with premium wines and spirits plus top-notch whiskies. Enjoy a cocktail from your hot tub on the west-facing balcony.

Le Barthelemy 

Set on a perfect crescent bay, Le Barthélemy is refined and fresh, as elegant and restorative as its stunning beachfront location. Le Barthelemy truly embraces its chic Parisian pedigree while reveling in its relaxed St. Barts setting.

La Suite Barthelemy



The 2,280 sq. ft. La Suite Barthélemy offers luxurious yet comfy space and bay views. Ideal for couples, friends or families, this brand new suite features a master bedroom and two guest rooms, each with ensuite bathrooms, and spacious, private terraces. The Luxury Suite is available on a 1, 2 or 3-bedroom basis depending on the number of guests.

The large, welcoming living room and private terrace or balcony set the perfect scene for a relaxing escape or a place to entertain. The kitchenette corner allows for convenience.

Le Toiny 

Le Toiny is located on the most private and rugged side of the island, where the wind blows hard on the rocky shores, the hotel is quiet and understated, and completely unpretentious.

Villa Nureyev



The Nureyev Villa features four unique bedrooms, two masters in the main floor of the villa, a private suite with its own terrace and kitchen area, and a guest cottage with its independent bathroom and view of the pool.



Outside, there is over 3,000 sq. ft. of outside space, including a private pool, Jacuzzi and steam bath as well as several areas to enjoy total privacy and seclusion.

Le Sereno

Virtually all suites and villas have a view of the turquoise lagoon, the newly rebuilt hotel is stunning in its simplicity, the design of the hotel only highlights the beauty of nature around it.

Villa Le Sereno

Villa Le Sereno is a 7,000 sq. ft., four-bedroom villas on half-acre private gardens, with full views of the ocean.



The villa is perched atop a rise leading down to the main hotel and overlooks the secluded Grand Cul de Sac. There are three master bedrooms, a private library that can become a fourth private bedroom with its own private bathroom.

There’s a wood-paneled library with, media room, including surround-sound large-screen home theater. The library has a full ensuite bathroom and can be outfitted with two twins or one king-size bed. 



Other features include a fully equipped designer kitchen with aluminum Schiffini cabinets by Vico Magistretti and appliances by Bosch, Pando, and Ilve Italia. The dining room seats 10 comfortably.

Enjoy your private swimming pool with a panoramic ocean view or lounge on the pool deck with a panoramic view furnished for sunbathing and reading. A large covered terrace with ocean views offers a dining table seating eight as well as a BBQ. 

7. Getting There



The airport is too small for jets, so best is to fly to St. Maarten and then you can charter a prop to make the short flight. U.S.-based Tradewind Aviation also offers scheduled flights on its Pilatus PC-12 turboprops and has hubs in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Antigua and the U.S. Virgin Island of St. Thomas. 




8. Executive Security Reports

1.   What you should consider before you get behind the wheel in Cuba
2.   Preventing a robbery while traveling
3.   How to survive a terrorist attack
4.   Seven ways your flight crew can improve security
5.   Six travel security scenarios you should be prepared for 
6.   Family travel safety and security advice
7.   Four trends in executive travel security



9. Jet Card Insider Program Reviews

1.   Air Partner
2.   Airstream Jets
3.   Flexjet
4.   Delta Private Jets (new)
5.   JetSuite (updated)
6.   Jet Aviation
7.   Jet Linx Aviation
8.   Magellan Jets
9.   NetJets
10. Private Jet Services (PJS) Group
11. Prive Jets 
12. ProspAir 
13. Sentient Jet (Updated)
14. StraightLine Private Air
15. Wheels Up (Updated)
16. XOJET



10. Our Most Popular Special Reports

If you are looking for more ideas and inspiration, check out some of our most popular Special Reports below...
 
You don’t have to be a high roller to stay in these suites

Viva Las Vegas. Some of the most spectacular suites you will find anywhere in the world are in Sin City. However, many are reserved for high rollers. In this issue, we look at impressive suites anyone can stay in, as long as you can pay. Check out the best from Aria, the Bellagio, the Delano, the new Nomad, and more. Read more...
 
A week of Swiss luxury

 
Although it’s a bit smaller than Vermont and New Hampshire combined, there are few places that offer more beautiful views of lakes, mountains, and medieval cities combined with five-star hotels and fine dining. Winter or summer, Switzerland is always a great place to spend a week. Read more...


 
5-star dining atop 5-star hotels

 
If you hate having to rush across town to dinner when you’re traveling, with the help of our friends, we’ve curated a list of 143 restaurants in over 60 cities around-the-world each with memorable views, cuisine to match, and all are located on the top floors or rooftops of leading hotels. Read more...


 
Sentosa Villa on the famous Grace Bay


Enjoy direct beachfront access at this outstanding 8-bedroom villa located on the famed Grace Bay Beach. Perfect for special events, such as a family reunion, wedding or other milestone celebration, revel in the perfect ocean views and soak in the lovely ambiance at Sentosa. 

The main house holds 6 bedrooms, while the other 2 are in the guest house. Just about every room has a large opening that lets light and ocean breezes flow freely throughout. Outside, the terrace and beach offer lots of comfortable lounge chairs and sunbeds alongside the infinity pool and ocean. Read more...


 
Five bedrooms of luxury in Turks & Caicos

A gorgeous getaway for your group of family and friends, the 5-bedroom Beach Enclave offers luxury-filled days and nights. Furnished to the highest standards, enjoy a bespoke private villa experience with your stay here. 

From the moment you arrive, you’ll find yourself slipping into the natural island rhythm. Inspired by an open Caribbean living concept, the villa features wide glass doors and multiple terraces that together allow the indoors and out to blend seamlessly. Spend days relaxing with a good book, cooling off in the pool, snorkeling in the ocean, or flying high on a kiteboard. Read more...

 
VIP British Columbia and Alaska by helicopter

 
Two of the most beautiful and rustic spots in the world are in Western North America, in British Columbia, Canada, and Alaska. One of the great advantages of private jets is you don’t waste travel time getting between places, and to that end Entrée Destinations combines the best of the outdoors in both places in one week, connected of course by your private jet. Read more
 
Five stunning villas in Los Cabos

Located next to One&Only Palmilla, Del Mar Los Cabos is a luxury gated. Expansive homes up to 12,000 sq. ft. are built to the highest standards of construction, and you have your own butler and private chef. Elegant Mexico handles all pre-arrival planning and concierge services. You get your own golf cart, Club Ninety-Six beach club and kids club access, Club Espiritu fitness club and spa, Offsite activity coordination services, in-residence spa services, 24-hour gated security, and 24-hour emergency medical response are all included. Read more...



 
Fishing, shooting, castles, and Harry Potter in Yorkshire

 
Voted Europe’s Best Travel Destination at the World Travel Awards, the first time the award went to a non-city, Yorkshire in northern England is known for its Roman and Viking heritage, Norman castles, medieval abbeys, national parks and cities that were the cradle of the Industrial Revolution. Read more...
 
Fine and Fun Skyscraper Dining in Bangkok

lebua at State Tower in Bangkok has become the epicenter of Thailand’s move to award-winning internationalizing, with 2-star Michelin restaurant Mezzaluna, Breeze, Sirocco, and soon Chef’s Table under the direction Vincent Thierry of the 3-star Michelin Caprice in Hong Kong. Of course, the nightlife is not restricted to restaurants with a multitude of specialty bars from The Flute A Perrier Jouet and Alfresco 64, a Chivas bar, lebua No. 3, with its caviar shooters and of course the bar that launched a worldwide trend, Skybar (pictured left). Read more...
 
A golfer's paradise in Northern California

The Northern California coast offers stunning Pacific views and has long been a desirable weekend getaway spot for Golden State residents. However, if you don’t happen to be from the state and are going to be visiting the Bay Area, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is convenient to extend your trip or an excellent base to visit the region’s many attractions. Read more




About DG Amazing Experiences
 
My name is Doug Gollan. I am a strong advocate of the private aviation industry.  You can read my frequent coverage of private jets and luxury travel at Forbes.com.
 
I’ve chosen you to receive DG Amazing Experiences because I believe you share my passion for both business aviation and the best travel and luxury experiences in the world.
  
DG Amazing Experiences is your e-newsletter guide to the best places and experiences for private jet travelers like yourself. The content is personally selected by me with the help of some of the smartest and best travel advisors in the world. My goal is to give you a look ahead at what's new, what's hot, and the best of the best. To make it easy for you, the stories are short but detailed, and I provide plentiful links to additional, relevant information.

If you are looking for private aviation solutions from on-demand charter to jet cards, fractional and even full ownership, please visit our sister website Private Jet Card Comparisons to access our buyer’s guide to over 250 jet card programs and our exclusive on-demand charter guide. Our VIP assistance program can help you decide which solutions are optimal for you.

Copyright © 2019 DG Amazing Experiences, All rights reserved.


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