Room category you stayed in, and would you upgrade, downgrade, or stay the same next time?

We were in oceanview suites- the difference is whether you have a pool or are higher up on the hill with a better view. If there’s room for a splurge, the oceanfront rooms with plunge pools were a favorite category as you can walk right out to the beach. Similarly, if a downgrade was needed, we actually liked the garden bungalows a lot- even though it’s a walk to the beach. 

 

Flamands Beach: quieter and wider than St. Jean — is that a feature or a drawback depending on who you’re travelling with?

It was a bit windy during our stay, but that kept it cool in June. For our group, it was a lovely feature for short walks and a quiet beach atmosphere. It’s very secluded and quiet.

The Guerlain spa: destination-worthy or a nice add-on?

Annie has been to the Guerlain spas at Cap Juluca and at Belmond Maroma, and this one is the smallest, and unfortunately she didn’t have time to go in, but it’s lovely to have a Guerlain option in St Barths. Most of the spas on the island are very small- just a few treatment rooms, very few large complexes with sauna/steam etc.

La Case restaurant: dinner or just cocktails? How does the food hold up against the island’s best standalone restaurants?

We ate at La Case for dinner one night and it was such a fun dining experience. The food presentation was not only stunning, but each bite was delicious. Every detail- down to the tablescape with Dior plates and Burano cups is perfect.

The LVMH polish — where does it show up in ways you didn’t expect?

It’s the small details, like the signature color (light pink) and signature Guerlain scent on arrival that you notice throughout. Our welcome notes and even final bill were in envelopes with a pink wax seal. We were welcomed with a gold water bottle, Ruinart champagne and a beautiful clutch. It’s in the level of service as well, everyone was incredibly welcoming, but it’s polished hospitality (white table clothes, high attention to the menus and bringing in a sommelier at dinner).

 Who is the perfect Cheval Blanc guest, and who might be disappointed?

It’s perfect for couples, or a big group of friends celebrating something special. We even saw many families here who were so happy. Next year they will add a kids club. I think a couple wanting to be in the middle of the party scene would be disappointed or a family needing constant entertainment/loads of kids programming.

The moment that made the price feel completely justified. Or with the price?

Looking over the balcony onto Flamands Beach and the size of the rooms. Even an entry level room is massive.