Language in Saint Barthelemy

Navigate the linguistic landscape of St. Barts with ease. Learn about the island's official language, French, and how English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Whether you're interested in basic French phrases or understanding the local dialect, get the insights you need for a culturally rich trip.

The official language of Saint Barthélemy (St. Barts) is French, as the island is an overseas collectivity of France. French is the language of government, education, and most media. It's also the language you'll most commonly hear in daily life and see on signs and official documents.

However, given that St. Barts is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world, you'll find that English is also widely spoken and understood, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Staff in these places are often multilingual to cater to an international clientele.

In more traditional settings or among older inhabitants, you may also hear a local dialect or patois that has influences from both French and Creole. However, this is less common in the settings where most tourists will find themselves.

Knowing some basic French phrases can enhance your travel experience and is often appreciated by locals, but it is generally not necessary for getting by in tourist-oriented businesses and accommodations. Still, as with any foreign travel, understanding some of the local language can help you better immerse yourself in the culture and is seen as a sign of respect.

If you're planning to spend an extended period on the island or venture into less touristy areas, a working knowledge of French will be more beneficial.

Here's a list of essential French words for traveling:

Greetings

Bonjour (bohn-zhoor) - Good morning/Good day
Bonsoir (bohn-swahr) - Good evening
Salut (sah-loo) - Hi/Hello
Au revoir (oh reh-vwah) - Goodbye

Common Phrases

S'il vous plaît (seel voo pleh) - Please
Merci (mehr-see) - Thank you
Oui (wee) - Yes
Non (noh) - No
Excusez-moi (ehk-skew-zeh mwah) - Excuse me
Pardon (pahr-dohn) - Sorry

Inquiries

Comment ça va ? (koh-mah sah vah) - How are you?
Comment vous appelez-vous ? (koh-mah vooz ah-peh-lei voo) - What is your name?
Parlez-vous anglais ? (par-lei vooz on-gleh) - Do you speak English?
Où est... ? (oo eh) - Where is... ?