The Restaurant Association of Saint Barthelemy has come up with the idea of vouchers as an alternate way to pay for meals. As of Monday, January 29, 27 restaurants are accepting the vouchers, or "restaurant invitations" as they are being called. We would more normally think of them as gift cards. Each voucher is good for 20 euros. The idea grew out of needs expressed by businesses and organizers of cultural events as a way to prepay meals or reward those working for them. Participating restaurants have a sticker on their door stating that they accept the cards and include La Route des Boucaniers, La Marine, Do Brazil, Le Repaire and the Wall House. For a complete list, visit www.RestaurantsDeStBarth.com. You can purchase the vouchers in three ways:

- Write to ARSB, BP 1115, St. Jean, 97097 St. Barthelemy requesting how many you would like. They only sell them by a booklet of 10. Include your address and a check.

- Purchase them at any participating restaurant.

- Visit the Tourist Office in Gustavia, Quai de la Republique. Here, you can purchase a booklet of 10 gift cards or individual gift cards.

What a nice gift to give to visiting friends or family!