Gustavia Gustavia is the capital and is one of the most beautiful ports of call, which during season hosts many luxurious yachts. Walking through the streets if this quaint town, you will immediately experience the island's Swedish heritage with old architecture having been preserved. Begin your tour by visiting the museum, located at la Pointe, in the far side of the port. The museum boasts documents tracing the island's history back to times of Mont-bars the Exterminator, and his legendary treasure wich is still believed to be buried on the island. Another interesting point of reference is the hurricane maps wich trace numerous Antillien storms. There are a number of beautiful, ancient building in the island's capital which you will discover amongst the tiny roads : the restored Wall House, the Brigantin, the Old Swedish House, the Sous-Préfecture, the Old Bell Tower which was part of an ancient church once destroyed in a hurricane, and Town Hall, the Governor's home during the Swedish occupation. Take a walk to the Anglican Church, its charming en by the tropical weather ; and here's en antecdote : the dark stones at each corner were imported from St. Eustacia, the steps and the stones of the main façade from France. Continue your tour with the Catholic Church, built i, 1822, with the help of Governor Nordeling. The architecture of this church has inspired many painters. Similar to the church in Lorient, the Catholic Church's bell tower is separate from the main structure ; it was erected higher then the rest of the structure to enhance the sound of the chimming bells. Next stop : Fort Gustavia, situated next to the weather station overlooking Gustavia ; this structure dates back ti the Swedish occupation. Here, you can discover the former defensive arms, the night-wachman's cabin, and the gunpowder-works. Take a moment at the stele of courageous Corporal Nyman's, who refused to aim guns at the town of Gustavia during a riot of the population. Another point of interest is the lighthouse which was erected in 1961. The town has many, many boutiques, several bars (including the famous Select), nightclubs, an array of eateries and excellent restaurants. Stop by the Guadeloupean ladies' (commonly referred to as "Doudous") market on Rue Oscar II. The produce is brought in fresh each week from Guadeloupe : mangos, figs, apples, local squash, tamarins, cinnamon apples, roots, spices, etc. Boats rentals and watersport excursions are available on the far side of the marina, at La Pointe, past the Post Office. Take a dip at Shell Beach, which is rumored to be unique in the Caribbean, and is one of the prettiest spots on St. Barth; ideal for swimming, diving ans romantic sunsets. In the evening, you must stop for at least one Ti Punch at the Select or l'Oubli. These are the meeting places for residents and tourists alike... the atmosphere is relaxed ans, generally rather animated.
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