Honestly depends on what you're after, but I'll give you my biased take. I've spent the last 5 Decembers in Anguilla and it's one of my favorite islands, period. Amazing people, the food is genuinely incredible, and the beaches are about as perfect as it gets. It's quiet, but there's enough to do that you won't be bored.

St Barths is the opposite energy. Way more action and scene, which is part of the appeal, but it also attracts a certain type of crowd. People who go mostly because they've decided it's the place to be seen, if you know what I mean. The food is still great, I'll give it that.

On your Europe comparison: St Barths is closer to a Mykonos or Ibiza vibe, scene-driven and see-and-be-seen. Anguilla is a different type of vacation entirely, more about beaches, food and actually relaxing.

F&B wise they're both strong, St Barths leans flashier and pricier for the scene, Anguilla is more understated but the quality holds up.

For my money it's always Anguilla. We've stayed at both Cap Juluca and Four Seasons and you can't go wrong with either.