Hello! I'm a longtime lurker and two-time St. Barts visitor. I've really enjoyed these forums. The information provided has been helpful and I've e

[lpholley]

We have stayed the guanahani several times with our young kids - now 5 and 2. I suggest getting a one bedroom suite with a private pool at the guanahani. That way, you have the kitchen area with the refrigerator and microwave - important for the baby. We always request a full size fridge and its been no problem at all. When the baby naps, you can still be by your pool and read, nap, etc.

Our kids have always done well on the flights over - just be sure the baby has a bottle for take off and landing. I suggest a stroller, especially if you are staying at the guanahani becuase of the hills there from the beach to the rooms. Also, just the ease at the airport.

Definately bring your own car seat - you'll want it for the plane anyway. Diapers - we also ship a box of diapers, lotion, kids snacks, etc ahead of time. Diapers are on the island, but expensive and not always the kind you want - the huggies vs pampers debate. We have always used the pack and plays provided by the villa or guanahani with no problem. For childcare, we have used the female staff at the guanahani although it was quite expensive last time - nov 2008 - 20 or 25 euros per hour for two kids. I think the babysitting was more expensive than our dinner.

Hope that helps!

 

[Voosh]

Travel with your children no matter what the age! They require much less gear than you think.

Amen.


But, as MikeR said, safety first. Ya don't need gizmos and stuff. Just pay attention and use commone sense. That's why most of us are here. ???

 

[jdr]

TO quickly recap our experience:

We did bring a stroller and that was very handy for strolling in Gustavia (and getting him to nap for dinner).

We did not bring a car seat and it was a mild regret. The car rental agencies provided them, but they were bigger than we would have preferred and would have felt more comfortable if we had our own.

We use pampers, and they were readily available at Match along with the wipes. No Huggies. Formula and food options are very limited, however, so count on bringing whatever food you need.