Since the French West Indies are overseas extensions of France, the prices for food and lodging are considerably more expensive than elsewhere in the Caribbean. Thanks to its celeb status, St Barts is in a class all its own when it comes to budgetary considerations.

In 2002, the euro (¬) became the official currency on all three islands. Euro notes are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros and coin denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 and 2 euros. The US dollar is also widely used on St Barts. Unless otherwise noted, prices are given in US dollars.

You'll find major banks in all island capitals and resort areas, usually equipped with ATMs . Tellers exchange travellers' cheques and cash, for a small commission, Monday through Friday 8am-noon and 2.30-5pm. Moneychangers , found near the main island tourist offices don't charge commission.

Even at two people sharing a room, it will be difficult to get by on less than US$50/day. The most simple double room costs around US$50; the same room near a beach costs $60-$70. Rates include all tax and service charges, and many also include breakfast. The cheapest option around is camping - Guadeloupe and Martinique both have sites for around $15/night. Otherwise, consider going in low season, when rates go down by almost half (May to Nov).

The best restaurant deals are the three-course prix-fixe menus. On Guadeloupe and Martinique they're commonly priced around $15 for dinner, while St Barts charges around $20 a head; they're usually modestly cheaper at lunchtime. The best lunch bargains are hefty ham and cheese baguettes and sodas from the beachside trucks that cost about $3. Wine can actually be less expensive than soda, at $1-$1.50 a glass in some bars.