9/04

St. Bart's is a very French island, and topfreedom is the norm.  The main St. Jean beach (where watching the airplanes land and take off is a major sport) is full of topfree women, both on the sand and in the water.  I felt very comfortable going topfree and strolling the length of the beach with my husband, passing the numerous cafes and bars.  Every beach we visited, we found probably 60-70% of the women going topfree.  I was so comfortable without my top after a few days that I spent all the time at our villa topfree, whether in the pool, sunning on the deck, or dining.  There was a funny moment when the pool maintenance guy came by one day as I walked topfree toward the kitchen--but I soon realized he didn't bat an eye; apparently, bare breasts are pretty common sights in St. Bart's!

St. Barthelemy has many topfree beaches and, as a woman, I would have stood out if I wore my top. My husband enjoyed seeing me uninhibited, the local women of the island are confident in bathing topless. The men did not stare at any one particular woman even though there were many beautiful women. You are not allowed to take photographs on the beach, and it is stated on the same sign as not to litter etc.

--Mickie, U.S.A.