My wife and I went to St Barths(which we enjoy every year) to de-stress with a much needed weeks vacation. We choose Hotel Le Banane on the advice of a friend, as someplace new and fun to go to. Let's just say it was a BAD choice. The rooms which look so nice in the pictures, don't show the hordes of mosquito's which apparently thrive there(are screens THAT hard to put in???). Also, the lack of ANY privacy is ridiculous(you and your neighbors will be very close, pray they don't have kids, because there were about 6 of them when we went), and while the outside bathroom looks nice, be prepared to hear EVERYTHING your neighbors are doing(disgusting, but true).

Needless to say, we tried to leave. You would think that management would be friendly and helpful, think again. While I tried offering them a free night(at 430+ euros, I thought I was being VERY considerate), they wanted none of it. They rudely told me that I would get no refund and that they held a room for me(of course they did, I booked it a whole week ahead, plus there were open rooms the following nights). In case they try this with you, you credit card company only gives them 1 night for cancelled rooms.

So, take my advice, stay away from this hotel. We went to Tom beach which was simple but nice, and then to Guanahani Hotel, which could not have been better. Oh, and as to the mosquito's, which management told me were everywhere on the island, I did not get bitten once more for the week. Don't go here, it stinks!!!

My wife and I celebrated our Honeymoon at La Banane. We had a wonderful visit and look forward to returning. I read the other reviews on the site and have to respectfullly disagree with both negative reviews.

We found the staff wonderful and very helpful. The hotel is quiet and peaceful. If you are looking for a nice respite from everything, including the inherent bustle of the Barths, come here.

ps- I espcially enjoyed the staff kindly brining me a nice espresso in while I waded in the pool smoking my afternoon cigar.

go and enjoy!

I visited the hotel in June, 2001, and experience much of the same as "rather disappointed."At the time of my visit, the business partner/owner of the hotel was visiting from Belgium with his children.The children ran up and down the wooden sidewalks that connected the bungalows ..as early as 7AM. While Philippe (manager) was embarrassed, the trophy wife of the partner couldn't care less if her kids were noisy....it was all about them.I was also the only American at the time, which dictated that the television was only available in French...and no CNN.

La Banane is a chic bijoux 9- room boutique hotel with beautiful guest rooms(we had a four poster DVD etc and a delicious huge shower room) and palm shaded pools. The look is minimal but 'luxe' and feels warm not clinical due to use of wood and other natural materials. Also fantastic very friendly and efficient service. Minor quibbles only-no direct access to the beach and the lush vegetation around the pool area means you have to douse yourself in mosquito repellant. Checked out other St Barth hotels during the trip and for the price this is definitely the most beautiful.