Just got back....need help planning a return trip.

Paul · Post by **Paul** » Wed Jun 24, 2009 3:59 pm

My family and I just returned on the 15th from STJ. With all the info garned from this forum, it was one of the best vacations we have ever taken. I promise to write a trip report as soon as I get caught up at the office, hopefully, by the weekend. That said, when we got on the ferry to return home, my wife and I looked at each other and said, "October?" That is our anniversary and we thought an "adults only" trip would be in order. I need some advice. Is the weather unsettled in October? Also, we have to do this on the cheap. We stayed in a villa on this last trip, but were thinking Gallows Point or Lavender Hill. Both are running specials (30% off). Or, perhaps someone could recommend a villa (1 or 2 bdrm) for around $1500. We would prefer something private with a pool and AC in the bedrooms. We stayed in Hart Bay this last trip and loved the location, but would be more than willing to try any location including the Coral Bay area. Any suggestions or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

John LMBZ06 · Post by **John LMBZ06** » Wed Jun 24, 2009 4:44 pm

I can't comment on the villa situation since I use points and stay at the Westin, but I was in St. John in October and really enjoyed it. This past October a small hurricane came through the area and actually was closer to St. Croix than St. John. We showed up on the island 3 days after it passed. We had perfect weather and the water was perfect. It still is hurricane season, but I never let that stop me from planning a trip. The odds are in your favor. Great water temp in October and the weather can not be beat (unless it is raining or worse).

Beesmom · Post by **Beesmom** » Wed Jun 24, 2009 4:56 pm

Paul wrote: Or, perhaps someone could recommend a villa (1 or 2 bdrm) for around $1500. We would prefer something private with a pool and AC in the bedrooms.

My husband and I stayed at here: http://www.cloud9villas.com/discounts.htm#VillaMS in late October 2003. I see the rate is around what you want, AC but no pool ( it has a spa though). The weather was perfect, but any time you go to the Caribbean during hurricane season you roll the dice, you takes your chances.

We went on the cheap in 2007 to Serendip condos and I was very happy considering what we paid.

-Sandy

Edited to add: This place is on my short list for next year: http://www.mylunavista.com/index.html

Lulu76 · Post by **Lulu76** » Wed Jun 24, 2009 5:53 pm

I love October on St. John. If it weren't for this crazy 8 Tuff Miles pipedream of mine, I would be going then.

You shouldn't have trouble finding a villa for two around that price for October, but if I were going as a couple I'd look at Serendip as well.

alw1977 · Post by **alw1977** » Wed Jun 24, 2009 6:23 pm

We were there last October and had a wonderful week of weather. Almost eerily perfect. On our last day, we had an earthquake and the tropical storm (which later turned into Omar I think) began to blow through. I liked it at that time, though it was a bit buggy. Use repellent!

cocosmom · Post by **cocosmom** » Wed Jun 24, 2009 6:37 pm

Lots of choices in your price range..check these out
http://www.caribbeanvilla.com/lastminute.asp

Paul · Post by **Paul** » Thu Jun 25, 2009 10:00 am

Thanks guys for your responses. I have a little research to do. The pricing at Serendip looks very attractive. However, the privacy of a villa is tough to overlook.

jmq · Post by **jmq** » Thu Jun 25, 2009 10:43 am

If you don’t find a villa that you want, the stay for 7 nights pay for 5 off season deal at Gallows is nice if/when they run that again. What is also good about Gallows is the walkability to/from town which means you don’t have to rent the jeep for all 7 days while there, saving even more $ so you can justify returning sooner. Trip insurance a must anytime after mid-August.

Beesmom · Post by **Beesmom** » Thu Jun 25, 2009 11:52 am

Paul wrote:Thanks guys for your responses. I have a little research to do. The pricing at Serendip looks very attractive. However, the privacy of a villa is tough to overlook.

If we could have afforded a villa, we definitely would have gone that route! We needed access to a pool because of a rambunctious 2 year old who apparently wants to be Aquaman when he grows up. We'd go to the beach in the morning then after his nap we'd splish around in Serendip's pool.

All told we spent a little over $3000 for a 1 week trip.

Have fun villa hunting!

-Sandy

MSGARMYGIRL · Post by **MSGARMYGIRL** » Thu Jun 25, 2009 11:59 am

http://www.vi-villas.com/siempre-azul/index.htm
We are staying at this villa in August. I called the guy who owns it and he gave it to me for 1500 for seven nights. He is incredible. He will pick you up at the ferry dock take you to the jeep rental(which he pre arranges) then drive you up to your villa. It is very private, and perfect for a couple. Please check it out and let me know what you think.

cool breeze · Post by **cool breeze** » Thu Jun 25, 2009 12:37 pm

We are returning the last week in October for our 3rd trip. Halloween is a real "hoot" on the island. Alot of fun.The two previous years weather was perfect. Crowds are not bad at all usually have no issues with parking at any facilities.

Good luck luck in your planning maybe we will cross paths at the BB if your here the same time.

ciao

CB

gobucs · Post by **gobucs** » Mon Jun 29, 2009 4:51 pm

I would also look on VRBO
They always have some good deals

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