Travel Reality Check: A first-time visitor’s guide to St. Barts flips the script on the postcard image, focusing on what actually matters for getting there and staying well on the ground. Getting In (and feeling okay): Most travelers route via St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana Airport, then take a short hop to Gustaf III; the landing is intense with a short, sloped runway that ends at the beach, and pilots need special certification—tips include choosing a front seat to reduce anxiety. Local Mobility: Once on island, the practical move is renting a car, since there’s no Uber and public transport is limited, with taxis also mentioned as an option. Sea Conditions Matter: A ferry from St. Maarten can be cheaper, but rough seas can mean cancellations—plan for weather if you’re aiming for a smooth arrival.