Travellers who choose to visit the small and quaint town of Gustavia, the capital of French-Caribbean territory Saint Barthélemy (most often referred to as St. Barts), are in for a very costly surprise with expenses averaging US$1,852 a day.

Sandy beaches, high-end boutiques, and vacation homes are eye-catching features of Gustavia, the main town of Saint Barthélemy for travelers ready to drop some serious cash on their vacations. Travel company, Florida Panhandle, featured the town as the most expensive travel destination after scrutinising data from over 100 vacation spots.

The report by Florida Panhandle analysed average prices for flight, meals accommodations and daily transportation, as well as the most common activities for tourists at each location. Those looking to travel to Gustavia can expect to spend quite a lot, as their study found the average cost for a day of travel in the town is $1,852 – without even counting the flight cost.

Expensive price tag not surprising

Islander Media Group Inc. reports that Gustavia’s expensive price tag is surprising to many, but comes with a more understandable explanation. Most of the goods on the island need to be imported, shooting prices up a great deal.

In addition, ultra-wealthy travellers have gotten in the habit of visiting, according to HuffPost, so Gustavia has established its place as a popular spot for visitors who can afford it. Getting there is the first issue many potential visitors run into.

Gustavia’s closest airport is the miniature Gustaf III Airport, which will cost you an average of $1,500 round trip from Miami if you decide to go in August. A price like that is on the low-end however, since Florida Panhandle’s study found that a roundtrip flight to the town from Los Angeles will cost you around $2,772.

Visitors who want to ditch the plane and cruise on the water can also arrive by boat and dock in the Gustavia Harbour, where they’ll be greeted by several multimillion-dollar yachts.

Costs don’t end there, however, as lodging also comes at a high cost. Study findings show that an average night’s cost (yes, one night) will cost you about US$1,700.To some surprise, the town does offer free access to its fan-favourite beaches, including Shell Beach.

After hitting its shores, visitors can explore St. Bart’s churches, mountainside hikes, and athletic lessons. Visitors who came prepared can also shop at the town’s revered luxury boutiques, and later dine at their high-end restaurants, with meals costing an average of US$58 each.

A trip to Gustavia may seem unattainable to many, but its “inner-circle” type of visitors has helped it cultivate a certain reputation among wealthy travelers. Next time you’re looking for a destination in the Caribbean and Gustavia catches your eye, make sure to save up some extra cash before booking your flight.