Well, the visit was an experience.
On the way in one turns before (headed down the hill from the roundabout) the old U and airport parking overflow. The admonishment of no curb/sidewalk parking was NOT heeded which caused delays in and out on the new access road (see photo 5 above).
Had to wait for one of the 78 spots on the roof (only a few minutes) and the down the escalator - which is very novel for the young of Saint Barth!
Once inside the place is laid out roughly along the lines of the old place, so finding things is rather easy. Larger asiles and taller shelves all brightly lit and full of stock. A butcher was busy chopping at his station and the booze selection appeared to be enhanced. Seemed like more prepared food which was nicely presented. 6 or so attended checkout lines and then two banks of self check stations. Weighing stations for produce just before self check was in multiple languages. Being a glutton for punishment I decided to test self check. Only took a manager assist to reset the device with a key (twice) and we were on our way. WAIT ONE MORE MANAGER NEEDED — receipt barcode needed to open the holding pen from self check to the free world.
Making the left to go back the hill at five o’clock was final interesting challenge.
With time this will all be the new normal, but I suspect the 78 parking spots will always be a challenge. As the images Kevin posted indicate there are a few undercover spots on the way in as part of the building, some handicap reserved.
Expect bollards to sprout from the access road sidewalk soon.