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PA Herd of 9 Feb 27 to Mar 7 trip report
PA Herd of 9 Feb 27 to Mar 7 trip report
Recent trip report posts prompted me to post mine. Photobucket is acting up so this report is light on pictures.
We hit STJ with a herd of nine this year. It was our (Mr. and Mrs. PA’s) 10th trip to STJ and our 5th STJ villa rental.
Members of the Herd:
The PA Girl group – me, Mr. PA and Little PA Guy, our 4 year old son. The was Little PA Guy‘s 4th STJ trip. He has been on the go with us since 3 months old and is a pretty good little traveler.
B & L – our long-time friends. We travel with them frequently and Mr. PA, B and I shared a roof back in the days so we know how to live together and get along.
M & J – J is L’s twin sister, M is her husband. We have become close with them over the years and they are part of the travel crew. This was their 2nd STJ trip with us.
R & C – newbie 20-sometimes, recent Doctorate grads getting ready to enter the “real world.” R is the son of L/stepson of B.
Travel
The lovely PA weather had me in fits for days prior to our departure. Yet another blizzard was forecasted for Friday with the added benefit of 50+ winds! Turns out my worry was wasted as we got to STT without a hitch. Much thanks to NancyB for her live Philly weather reports! Beverages during the van ride down eased my anxiety.
We stayed at the Sheraton Suites Philly Airport the night before our 7-something am flight. As usual, it was complete chaises getting on the shuttle in the morning. Who are all these people leaving for the airport at 5am?
There was at least twice the number of people who couldn’t get on the shuttle as there were on the shuttle, which was standing room packed.
A Good Airline Story
US Air check-in, at 5:15am was absolutely packed. There was some sort of tour group as well as lots of spring breakers. Check-in was a mess as no one knew how to use the kiosks.
As we inched our way forward, a ticket agent at an empty first class counter makes eye contact with me and gives me a little, sneaky wave gesturing me to come down to his window.
It was so subtle, I pointed to my chest and then to my guys as if to sign “us? You want us to come down to you?” He nodded slightly and we scooted under several sets of ropes. He checks us in and we were off! Leaving the other six behind with “what the h@ll just happened?” looks on their faces.
I swear travelling with little kids gets us special treatment. There hasn’t been a time when we haven’t benefited from some nice gesture when our son was with us. This time, the fact that he was dressed like a pirate complete with hat probably melted the icy heart of the US Air ticket agent.
The flight down was rather crowded, possibly sold out. We got off a bit late because of de-icing. When I heard the captain announce de-icing, I popped another ativan so I was rather chill all the way down.
Transfer to STJ was via Christopher Taxi and Dohm’s. Smooth as usual, we have used them since 2004. The driver stops for beer as soon as we leave the airport and as long as that continues, my husband will remain forever loyal to Christopher.
The airport wasn’t too bad on our return. While crowded in the departure area, customs and security was painless. We used a porter but even check-in didn’t seem too backed up. The flight was less than half full and we were all able to spread out.
Lodging
We rented Casa De Sonadores. It was a good house for four couples. The bedrooms were nearly identical with the exception that some had both outdoor and indoor showers. All had king sized beds. My pictures don’t do it justice. Check out the On-Stjohn.com video for the grand tour.
Eating and Drinking
In no particular order, we visited Morgan’s Mango (2x), Lime Inn (2x), High Tide, La Tapa, Zozo’s, Candy’s for take-out, Shipwreck, Beach Bar, Sun Dog/Gecko Gazebo, Caneel for breakfast and the Ocean Grill.
Morgan’s and Lime Inn are sentimental favorites dating back to our honeymoon trip.
Because I couldn’t decide between the whole grilled snapper or the lobster, we had to visit the Lime Inn twice. It was very good both nights.
Morgan’s was better the first night than the second. We had a great conch and octopus ceviche appetizer and lobster the first night. On the 2nd night, my guess is the restaurant got slammed early on in the evening due to the weather. It was absolutely packed and the staff looked shell shocked. We actually chose it for the second night due to the rain. We wanted a short walk from a parking lot. Well, we parked at Mongoose in a torrential downpour. $44 and two Friends of the VI National Park umbrellas later, we made it to Morgan’s mostly dry.
Our meal at La Tapa was very good and I could have visited a second time.
Zozo’s was fine. The service was off; lots of unnecessary attitude and the waiter made himself as scarce as possible. The manager/owner seemed to be picking up the slack for him. Mostly acting like he (waiter) was doing us a huge favor by allowing us to spend nearly 4 figures at his table. The waiter pushed back when I ordered for our son, saying he wouldn’t eat what I ordered. Hey buddy, I know my kid better than you. Much to my GREAT delight, Little PA Guy cleaned his plate (veal dish off the appetizer menu) and then started on Mommy and Daddy’s dishes.
I have to wonder if the guaranteed gratuity didn’t have something to do with it. I spent a lot of time waitressing in my younger years and in my experience, people that order multiple courses and drink a lot tend to tip much better than the glass of water and splitting an entry type of table. The bill is higher, they are loosened up, etc. If a waiter knows he is getting 20% no matter what, why not go hang out in the kitchen most of the time?
The manager (or maybe it was the owner) was helpful with our wine selections. This seemed to further annoy the waiter who was then obligated to keep bringing out more wine.
Some in the group thought the food was ok, not fantastic. Others thought it was the best of the trip. Most thought the portion size was small for the price. Several of us got the shrimp, which was close to $40 and came out with three shrimp on the plate. At least they were tasty.
During our first Lime Inn visit of the week, we had pre-dinner drinks at that bar in front of the restaurant. Mr. PA ordered a rum punch that he could not drink, it was that strong. Mr. PA’s idea of a rum and coke is rum with only enough coke to add color. His gin and tonics include tonic only as an afterthought. With that as a reference, consider this my PSA about the strength of these rum punches –
(I finished it.)
We cruised by Waterfront Bistro and Spyglass but neither menu appealed to us, too much like home. The villa check-in rep highly recommended Hinds and we wanted to give it a try but ran out of time. We wanted to book Ted for an in-house meal but couldn’t connect before we arrived. And I didn’t get to the Tourist Trap, which bummed me out. Maybe next time.
Beaches
I thought the water was a bit rough during the week. I snorkeled at Hawksnest (the Gibney side) and saw some neat stuff. We also visited Maho once and Francis twice. The rest of the crew were at Trunk on Saturday (Mar 6) and said the staff advised them to not go in the water.
Wipe out at Francis –
Our best day was at Gibney, clear and relatively calm with the very pleasant bonus of sharing the day with Mr. and Mrs. Gymnastica. Little PA connected the dots that day and was able to swim underwater with his mask. There was enough little fish in the water to delight him.
Gymnastica and I spent quality time discussing the absolute perfection of that stone beach house at Gibney. Anyone know who lives there? My guess was one of the kids of the lady (a Gibney) that wrote about their life there in the 50s or 60s. She has a chapter in the STJ People book.
Mr. Gymnastica saved the day by doing a beer run. What is it about STJ? There never seems to be enough beach beer. If I would drink 3 beers before 1pm in the real world, I would need a nap. On the beach, it is like I have a hollow leg. Anyway, we sooo owe you a beer run buddy! Our turn next time!
See the day trip section for inform about the incredible snorkeling at 3 Ball reef - The best ever!
Critter
Saw the expected amount of beach chickens, donkeys and goats. I didn’t see as many iguanas this year. What surprised me was the number of mongoose dem. (is that the correct spelling?) We saw at least six and they looked quite plump and healthy. The one or two I saw in the past looked thin and mangy.
Boat Day
Based on Maho Jim’s recommendation, we looking into Motor Yacht Cinnamon Bay – http://www.motoryachtcinnamonbay.com/mo ... onbay.html
We do a water day each STJ trip and this was the best yet.
Our needs were basic – we wanted a spacious boat, maybe a snorkel stop, lunch somewhere and to visit White Bay.
MYCB is a lovely boat. It was very spacious. (Space was important to us; we didn’t want to be on top of each other.) There was plenty of room for us all to sit in the back and the pace was relaxing enough that we could actually talk to each other without shouting to be heard over the wind and/or engines. Some of the guys went up on the fly bridge for a part of the ride.
We stopped at 3-ball reef to snorkel. It was incredible! I don’t know that I have ever seen such a variety of fish in one spot. On the way there, J lost her hat. (My hubby brought matching hats with our company logo for everyone.) Capt. Dan made a good effort to find it as I am saying, after one or two breakfast beers, “leave it, we have a box full at home. No seriously, leave it. I want to get going.” I immediately thought of Gromit.
Watching Daddy Snorkel -
Lunch was at Sydney’s. While I am glad to have been there once, making my own drinks doesn’t appeal to me. Maybe it was my years spent behind the bar but I rather be on the bar stool side of the bar.
Our lunch was very good, 8 of the 9 got some form of lobster. (We ordered ahead.) They ushered us into a large room where we sat at a long table. While the AC was nice, the PA family would have preferred to sit outside to enjoy the views. I suppose we could have picked up our food and walked out but it felt a bit awkward as they had our food on the table when we were escorted in and clearly expected us to eat inside.
A funny (to me, not the victim) thing happened at Sydney’s. A young boy bit C in the back of the leg really hard! She was standing at the bar and shouts “Ouch! Something bit me!” Crouched down by her leg was a little boy about 3 years old. She had teeth marks on her leg!
Then it was off to White Bay. We spent most of our time at the Soggy Dollar. I really wanted to explore the other bars but just couldn’t propel myself down the beach.
It was a great day. I look forward to going out on MYCB again. The experience was so different, in the best possible way, then our time spent on sail boats and power boats. It was so relaxing to just cruise along with all the space to lounge about. My big 4-0 will occur next year and I already told the husband that I would like to have my birthday celebration on the boat.
I must comment on the crew’s attention to detail and safety. Our 4 year was with us. We don’t expect anyone to cater to our child (or act as babysitter) and we were so taken with their extra touches as it related to our son. In anyone has a group that includes kids, this is the boat for you.
An example of the Ristuccia’s customer service – When they pulled up to the dock, Donna had a child’s life vest in her hand, which we didn’t need because he was already buckled in his own PDF, rice crispy treats and juice boxes in the cooler and, best of all – pirate toys!
They pointed out a few things in particular we should be aware of in regards to our son on the boat, nearly all of which I was already familiar with but still, it showed that they take safety seriously.
Our dingy ride into White Bay was challenging (an understatement) and Capt. Dan was on top of everything and I was very comfortable with his methods and directions. The guys swam in and I intended to do the same with our son but the water was crazy rough. While we were at the bar, he spent some time fishing other patrons out of the water and ferrying them to their charter boats.
Odds and Ends
Some interesting signs –
No heads in the head
Anyone have a clue about the following? It was parked next to Slimman’s
For our family, travelling with a 4 year old is definitely easier than a 3 year old. I had all the bases covered – tons of snacks, food, activities, distractions for the airport and plane and I didn’t need any of it. All he wanted to do was play with his planes and watch a DVD. I took a bunch of toys for when we were on-island and he didn’t want anything, he was too busy chasing lizards and playing in the pool.
The newbies loved it but was shocked by how much driving was required. Most of their trips to date were the on-the-beach variety so the driving came as a surprise. “Why didn’t we stay closer to the beach?” R asked. Go ask your mother.
I don’t know that I would go back to the same neighborhood. Virgin Grande is further out of town that I realized. Back and forth through town four times a day was too much running around for me. (beach and back, dinner and back) Next trip we are either going back to the north shore or Coral Bay.
If people knew how to drive, the roundabout would work. Provo, T & C has nothing but roundabouts and traffic moves along just fine there. We saw people going the wrong way, randomly slamming on their brakes for no reason and, most shocking of all, the contractors working on Saturdays and Sundays! Go figure.
We rented three jeeps from STJ Car Rental. One was nearly brand new, one was average and one (ours) was rather beat up. Beat up doesn’t bother us but the tires definitely needed to be replaced.
The rain arrived Saturday and, I can’t believe I am typing this - it was actually cool enough for me to put on capris and long-sleeves by Sunday.
I took this picture on Friday afternoon. This is the first water spout I have ever seen. It was pretty cool. We watched it cross between the islands for at least 15 minutes.
I am still holding out hope for a summer trip and we are looking forward to planning our 2011 trip!
We hit STJ with a herd of nine this year. It was our (Mr. and Mrs. PA’s) 10th trip to STJ and our 5th STJ villa rental.
Members of the Herd:
The PA Girl group – me, Mr. PA and Little PA Guy, our 4 year old son. The was Little PA Guy‘s 4th STJ trip. He has been on the go with us since 3 months old and is a pretty good little traveler.
B & L – our long-time friends. We travel with them frequently and Mr. PA, B and I shared a roof back in the days so we know how to live together and get along.
M & J – J is L’s twin sister, M is her husband. We have become close with them over the years and they are part of the travel crew. This was their 2nd STJ trip with us.
R & C – newbie 20-sometimes, recent Doctorate grads getting ready to enter the “real world.” R is the son of L/stepson of B.
Travel
The lovely PA weather had me in fits for days prior to our departure. Yet another blizzard was forecasted for Friday with the added benefit of 50+ winds! Turns out my worry was wasted as we got to STT without a hitch. Much thanks to NancyB for her live Philly weather reports! Beverages during the van ride down eased my anxiety.
We stayed at the Sheraton Suites Philly Airport the night before our 7-something am flight. As usual, it was complete chaises getting on the shuttle in the morning. Who are all these people leaving for the airport at 5am?
There was at least twice the number of people who couldn’t get on the shuttle as there were on the shuttle, which was standing room packed.
A Good Airline Story
US Air check-in, at 5:15am was absolutely packed. There was some sort of tour group as well as lots of spring breakers. Check-in was a mess as no one knew how to use the kiosks.
As we inched our way forward, a ticket agent at an empty first class counter makes eye contact with me and gives me a little, sneaky wave gesturing me to come down to his window.
It was so subtle, I pointed to my chest and then to my guys as if to sign “us? You want us to come down to you?” He nodded slightly and we scooted under several sets of ropes. He checks us in and we were off! Leaving the other six behind with “what the h@ll just happened?” looks on their faces.
I swear travelling with little kids gets us special treatment. There hasn’t been a time when we haven’t benefited from some nice gesture when our son was with us. This time, the fact that he was dressed like a pirate complete with hat probably melted the icy heart of the US Air ticket agent.
The flight down was rather crowded, possibly sold out. We got off a bit late because of de-icing. When I heard the captain announce de-icing, I popped another ativan so I was rather chill all the way down.
Transfer to STJ was via Christopher Taxi and Dohm’s. Smooth as usual, we have used them since 2004. The driver stops for beer as soon as we leave the airport and as long as that continues, my husband will remain forever loyal to Christopher.
The airport wasn’t too bad on our return. While crowded in the departure area, customs and security was painless. We used a porter but even check-in didn’t seem too backed up. The flight was less than half full and we were all able to spread out.
Lodging
We rented Casa De Sonadores. It was a good house for four couples. The bedrooms were nearly identical with the exception that some had both outdoor and indoor showers. All had king sized beds. My pictures don’t do it justice. Check out the On-Stjohn.com video for the grand tour.
Eating and Drinking
In no particular order, we visited Morgan’s Mango (2x), Lime Inn (2x), High Tide, La Tapa, Zozo’s, Candy’s for take-out, Shipwreck, Beach Bar, Sun Dog/Gecko Gazebo, Caneel for breakfast and the Ocean Grill.
Morgan’s and Lime Inn are sentimental favorites dating back to our honeymoon trip.
Because I couldn’t decide between the whole grilled snapper or the lobster, we had to visit the Lime Inn twice. It was very good both nights.
Morgan’s was better the first night than the second. We had a great conch and octopus ceviche appetizer and lobster the first night. On the 2nd night, my guess is the restaurant got slammed early on in the evening due to the weather. It was absolutely packed and the staff looked shell shocked. We actually chose it for the second night due to the rain. We wanted a short walk from a parking lot. Well, we parked at Mongoose in a torrential downpour. $44 and two Friends of the VI National Park umbrellas later, we made it to Morgan’s mostly dry.
Our meal at La Tapa was very good and I could have visited a second time.
Zozo’s was fine. The service was off; lots of unnecessary attitude and the waiter made himself as scarce as possible. The manager/owner seemed to be picking up the slack for him. Mostly acting like he (waiter) was doing us a huge favor by allowing us to spend nearly 4 figures at his table. The waiter pushed back when I ordered for our son, saying he wouldn’t eat what I ordered. Hey buddy, I know my kid better than you. Much to my GREAT delight, Little PA Guy cleaned his plate (veal dish off the appetizer menu) and then started on Mommy and Daddy’s dishes.
I have to wonder if the guaranteed gratuity didn’t have something to do with it. I spent a lot of time waitressing in my younger years and in my experience, people that order multiple courses and drink a lot tend to tip much better than the glass of water and splitting an entry type of table. The bill is higher, they are loosened up, etc. If a waiter knows he is getting 20% no matter what, why not go hang out in the kitchen most of the time?
The manager (or maybe it was the owner) was helpful with our wine selections. This seemed to further annoy the waiter who was then obligated to keep bringing out more wine.
Some in the group thought the food was ok, not fantastic. Others thought it was the best of the trip. Most thought the portion size was small for the price. Several of us got the shrimp, which was close to $40 and came out with three shrimp on the plate. At least they were tasty.
During our first Lime Inn visit of the week, we had pre-dinner drinks at that bar in front of the restaurant. Mr. PA ordered a rum punch that he could not drink, it was that strong. Mr. PA’s idea of a rum and coke is rum with only enough coke to add color. His gin and tonics include tonic only as an afterthought. With that as a reference, consider this my PSA about the strength of these rum punches –
(I finished it.)
We cruised by Waterfront Bistro and Spyglass but neither menu appealed to us, too much like home. The villa check-in rep highly recommended Hinds and we wanted to give it a try but ran out of time. We wanted to book Ted for an in-house meal but couldn’t connect before we arrived. And I didn’t get to the Tourist Trap, which bummed me out. Maybe next time.
Beaches
I thought the water was a bit rough during the week. I snorkeled at Hawksnest (the Gibney side) and saw some neat stuff. We also visited Maho once and Francis twice. The rest of the crew were at Trunk on Saturday (Mar 6) and said the staff advised them to not go in the water.
Wipe out at Francis –
Our best day was at Gibney, clear and relatively calm with the very pleasant bonus of sharing the day with Mr. and Mrs. Gymnastica. Little PA connected the dots that day and was able to swim underwater with his mask. There was enough little fish in the water to delight him.
Gymnastica and I spent quality time discussing the absolute perfection of that stone beach house at Gibney. Anyone know who lives there? My guess was one of the kids of the lady (a Gibney) that wrote about their life there in the 50s or 60s. She has a chapter in the STJ People book.
Mr. Gymnastica saved the day by doing a beer run. What is it about STJ? There never seems to be enough beach beer. If I would drink 3 beers before 1pm in the real world, I would need a nap. On the beach, it is like I have a hollow leg. Anyway, we sooo owe you a beer run buddy! Our turn next time!
See the day trip section for inform about the incredible snorkeling at 3 Ball reef - The best ever!
Critter
Saw the expected amount of beach chickens, donkeys and goats. I didn’t see as many iguanas this year. What surprised me was the number of mongoose dem. (is that the correct spelling?) We saw at least six and they looked quite plump and healthy. The one or two I saw in the past looked thin and mangy.
Boat Day
Based on Maho Jim’s recommendation, we looking into Motor Yacht Cinnamon Bay – http://www.motoryachtcinnamonbay.com/mo ... onbay.html
We do a water day each STJ trip and this was the best yet.
Our needs were basic – we wanted a spacious boat, maybe a snorkel stop, lunch somewhere and to visit White Bay.
MYCB is a lovely boat. It was very spacious. (Space was important to us; we didn’t want to be on top of each other.) There was plenty of room for us all to sit in the back and the pace was relaxing enough that we could actually talk to each other without shouting to be heard over the wind and/or engines. Some of the guys went up on the fly bridge for a part of the ride.
We stopped at 3-ball reef to snorkel. It was incredible! I don’t know that I have ever seen such a variety of fish in one spot. On the way there, J lost her hat. (My hubby brought matching hats with our company logo for everyone.) Capt. Dan made a good effort to find it as I am saying, after one or two breakfast beers, “leave it, we have a box full at home. No seriously, leave it. I want to get going.” I immediately thought of Gromit.
Watching Daddy Snorkel -
Lunch was at Sydney’s. While I am glad to have been there once, making my own drinks doesn’t appeal to me. Maybe it was my years spent behind the bar but I rather be on the bar stool side of the bar.
Our lunch was very good, 8 of the 9 got some form of lobster. (We ordered ahead.) They ushered us into a large room where we sat at a long table. While the AC was nice, the PA family would have preferred to sit outside to enjoy the views. I suppose we could have picked up our food and walked out but it felt a bit awkward as they had our food on the table when we were escorted in and clearly expected us to eat inside.
A funny (to me, not the victim) thing happened at Sydney’s. A young boy bit C in the back of the leg really hard! She was standing at the bar and shouts “Ouch! Something bit me!” Crouched down by her leg was a little boy about 3 years old. She had teeth marks on her leg!
Then it was off to White Bay. We spent most of our time at the Soggy Dollar. I really wanted to explore the other bars but just couldn’t propel myself down the beach.
It was a great day. I look forward to going out on MYCB again. The experience was so different, in the best possible way, then our time spent on sail boats and power boats. It was so relaxing to just cruise along with all the space to lounge about. My big 4-0 will occur next year and I already told the husband that I would like to have my birthday celebration on the boat.
I must comment on the crew’s attention to detail and safety. Our 4 year was with us. We don’t expect anyone to cater to our child (or act as babysitter) and we were so taken with their extra touches as it related to our son. In anyone has a group that includes kids, this is the boat for you.
An example of the Ristuccia’s customer service – When they pulled up to the dock, Donna had a child’s life vest in her hand, which we didn’t need because he was already buckled in his own PDF, rice crispy treats and juice boxes in the cooler and, best of all – pirate toys!
They pointed out a few things in particular we should be aware of in regards to our son on the boat, nearly all of which I was already familiar with but still, it showed that they take safety seriously.
Our dingy ride into White Bay was challenging (an understatement) and Capt. Dan was on top of everything and I was very comfortable with his methods and directions. The guys swam in and I intended to do the same with our son but the water was crazy rough. While we were at the bar, he spent some time fishing other patrons out of the water and ferrying them to their charter boats.
Odds and Ends
Some interesting signs –
No heads in the head
Anyone have a clue about the following? It was parked next to Slimman’s
For our family, travelling with a 4 year old is definitely easier than a 3 year old. I had all the bases covered – tons of snacks, food, activities, distractions for the airport and plane and I didn’t need any of it. All he wanted to do was play with his planes and watch a DVD. I took a bunch of toys for when we were on-island and he didn’t want anything, he was too busy chasing lizards and playing in the pool.
The newbies loved it but was shocked by how much driving was required. Most of their trips to date were the on-the-beach variety so the driving came as a surprise. “Why didn’t we stay closer to the beach?” R asked. Go ask your mother.
I don’t know that I would go back to the same neighborhood. Virgin Grande is further out of town that I realized. Back and forth through town four times a day was too much running around for me. (beach and back, dinner and back) Next trip we are either going back to the north shore or Coral Bay.
If people knew how to drive, the roundabout would work. Provo, T & C has nothing but roundabouts and traffic moves along just fine there. We saw people going the wrong way, randomly slamming on their brakes for no reason and, most shocking of all, the contractors working on Saturdays and Sundays! Go figure.
We rented three jeeps from STJ Car Rental. One was nearly brand new, one was average and one (ours) was rather beat up. Beat up doesn’t bother us but the tires definitely needed to be replaced.
The rain arrived Saturday and, I can’t believe I am typing this - it was actually cool enough for me to put on capris and long-sleeves by Sunday.
I took this picture on Friday afternoon. This is the first water spout I have ever seen. It was pretty cool. We watched it cross between the islands for at least 15 minutes.
I am still holding out hope for a summer trip and we are looking forward to planning our 2011 trip!
Another trip report! 
Sorry about your Zozos meal. I think you might be right about the tip issue. I defintely have been places where I notice a change in the service if the tip is guaranteed. I don't like autograts.
The stone house at Gibney is still occupied by John Gibney's widow. I can't remember her name--Teri, I think? She owns and manages the cottages on the beach. I agree that the house is gorgeous.
Sorry about your Zozos meal. I think you might be right about the tip issue. I defintely have been places where I notice a change in the service if the tip is guaranteed. I don't like autograts.
The stone house at Gibney is still occupied by John Gibney's widow. I can't remember her name--Teri, I think? She owns and manages the cottages on the beach. I agree that the house is gorgeous.
It's like looking in your soup and finding a whole different alphabet.
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gymnastika
- Posts: 291
- Joined: Fri Mar 28, 2008 10:01 pm
- Location: texas
No problem, got you covered!gymnastika wrote:LOL "hollow leg"!!!!! That's hilarious!!!
Our time at gibney with you guys was a favorite memory. Your son definetly "gets" STJ. He's a cutie pie. Btw, throw some Caribe in there on your next beer run.
It was interesting when we went to the Lime Inn, the waiter told us straight out that he doesn't not add autograturity because he found out he makes more money if the customer decides on the tip.
PA Girl-- So glad that my poor choices during my recent sailing adventures were a life lesson to you 
Sounds like a FAB trip!
I have to agree with you about ZoZo's. I know some ont his forum love it there but, while I found the food good, I just feel that the higher end restaurants are crazy overpriced. Believe me I understand why, I do. It's expensive to get good food down there and rents are high, but I've generally drifted away from high-end dining on island and opted for more casual and less expensive fare. And I totally agree about the auto gratuity. It makes for really bad service IMHO.
I also share your sentiments about having to drive thru Cruz Bay. It's gotten very busy especially with the construction and over the past few years we've started staying on the Coral Bay side, which I find that I greatly prefer. Of course if we want to head into Cruz Bay for dining its a drive, but I don't mind that as much as having to get thru morning "rush hour" (all relative I know!) to get to the north shore beaches.
Glad you havd a fantastic trip!!
Sounds like a FAB trip!
I have to agree with you about ZoZo's. I know some ont his forum love it there but, while I found the food good, I just feel that the higher end restaurants are crazy overpriced. Believe me I understand why, I do. It's expensive to get good food down there and rents are high, but I've generally drifted away from high-end dining on island and opted for more casual and less expensive fare. And I totally agree about the auto gratuity. It makes for really bad service IMHO.
I also share your sentiments about having to drive thru Cruz Bay. It's gotten very busy especially with the construction and over the past few years we've started staying on the Coral Bay side, which I find that I greatly prefer. Of course if we want to head into Cruz Bay for dining its a drive, but I don't mind that as much as having to get thru morning "rush hour" (all relative I know!) to get to the north shore beaches.
Glad you havd a fantastic trip!!
*Another fine scatterbrained production
We had gone to ZoZo's twice in the past. Once at its old location, where Hinds is now, and once at its present location. The newer location doesn't even come close to the quality of food and ambiance. Saying that we decided on this trip, by the way we were in St. John the same time as your group of 9, to give it another chance. Food was just okay, service was so-so, and it was very noisy. The gentleman who asks about your wine selection also came over to ask how our meal was and was already walking away when we were answering. Will we go back - not a chance.
Absolutely loved Sweet Plantains, Rhumblines, and La Tapa.
Absolutely loved Sweet Plantains, Rhumblines, and La Tapa.
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Berlingirl
- Posts: 499
- Joined: Mon Aug 07, 2006 6:09 pm
- Location: New England
PA girl...great report!
Nice that you have a group to travel with...for us it's our small family...we've been taking our youngest almost her whole life now. She is 13 this trip and her brother is 31. LOL, I can't imagine traveling without a child tagging along personally.
Hate the attitude at some resturants with snooty waiters. I used to be a bartender and a waitress so I understand and value good service. Terrible when you are paying good money and the service is lousy.
Only done ZoZo's once in all our years. It was a couple of years ago and I remember it was good, but for the view mostly. Love Cafe Roma for Italian.
Thanks again for your report!!
Nice that you have a group to travel with...for us it's our small family...we've been taking our youngest almost her whole life now. She is 13 this trip and her brother is 31. LOL, I can't imagine traveling without a child tagging along personally.
Hate the attitude at some resturants with snooty waiters. I used to be a bartender and a waitress so I understand and value good service. Terrible when you are paying good money and the service is lousy.
Only done ZoZo's once in all our years. It was a couple of years ago and I remember it was good, but for the view mostly. Love Cafe Roma for Italian.
Thanks again for your report!!
Hoping for a USVI ticker in 2013!
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StJohnRuth
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Mon Aug 07, 2006 8:42 pm
- Location: St. John, VI
Sorry I missed you, PA Girl.
I knew you'd love Captain Dan and Donna on Motor Yacht Cinnamon Bay. It is a special boat and they are excellent hosts.
And, I have a clue!
http://www.on-stjohn.com/2009/02/19/hon ... like-meat/
See you next time.
- Ruth
I knew you'd love Captain Dan and Donna on Motor Yacht Cinnamon Bay. It is a special boat and they are excellent hosts.
And, I have a clue!
http://www.on-stjohn.com/2009/02/19/hon ... like-meat/
See you next time.
- Ruth