usvi-on-line
Considering the BVI's next year...
Considering the BVI's next year...
Any insight/advice on rentals for 1-2 couples? All inclusives? Villas? Jeep rental necessary?
Jost? Tortola?
Any help appreciated.
Smiles-
MJ
Jost? Tortola?
Any help appreciated.
Smiles-
MJ
Virgin Gorda. Guavaberry--houses or villas.
http://www.guavaberryspringbay.com/
TTOL is a good forum for BVI info.
I'm not sure if we'll ever be back to STJ but we will be going back to VG.
http://www.guavaberryspringbay.com/
TTOL is a good forum for BVI info.
I'm not sure if we'll ever be back to STJ but we will be going back to VG.
Mahoe Bay on Virgin Gorda! Beautiful views, snorkeling, on wonderful beach. Can recommend Island Magic villa.
http://www.virgingordabvi.com/index.php
You need a vehicle, but could live w/o 4WD. Easier driving than STJ.
http://www.virgingordabvi.com/index.php
You need a vehicle, but could live w/o 4WD. Easier driving than STJ.
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We've been to both Tortola and Virgin Gorda - loved both. We are headed to Tortola and Peter Island for 2 weeks in June. I'll post a report when I get back.
Guavaberry has nice cottages. If you want more of a villa than a cottage, I would recommend looking at some of the villas that Guavaberry rents. That area near the Baths is nice. Virgin Gorda has some stunning beaches with fabulous snorkeling and great restaurants. As the other poster mentioned, Mahoe Bay area is very nice. We have looked at Adagio Villa but haven't stayed there (yet).
On Tortola, we stayed at Lemongrass Villa, very close to Cane Garden Bay, but not on the beach. It was a fabulous villa and I would love to stay there again. Three bedrooms, wonderful pool, nice view, close to great restaurants, great rental company.
Guavaberry has nice cottages. If you want more of a villa than a cottage, I would recommend looking at some of the villas that Guavaberry rents. That area near the Baths is nice. Virgin Gorda has some stunning beaches with fabulous snorkeling and great restaurants. As the other poster mentioned, Mahoe Bay area is very nice. We have looked at Adagio Villa but haven't stayed there (yet).
On Tortola, we stayed at Lemongrass Villa, very close to Cane Garden Bay, but not on the beach. It was a fabulous villa and I would love to stay there again. Three bedrooms, wonderful pool, nice view, close to great restaurants, great rental company.
We went to VG in 2008. Hang in with me here - the weather sucked, sucked, sucked. It was really awful. Some freak weather system parked over VG and from what I heard, it lasted the better part of the season. Totally unusual and the locals were beside themselves with excitement over the cool weather.
Anyway, the reason I mention this is I came home sort of down about VG but after some time passed, I realized how much I loved the island, we all did. We will go back.
Driving is very similar and you would definitely need a vehicle.
There are plenty of very close to the beach accommodations.
We stayed at Mahoe and all those houses come with a daily housekeeping service. I didn’t know what to think about this but it turned out great. The woman at our house was such a wealth of information. All the houses are within a short walking distance to the beach.
I would absolutely look at staying at Gauvaberry next trip. The units reminded me of cottages. This location is convenient to town.
Spanishtown is a grouping of businesses along a central thorough fare. It isn't a town like Cruz Bay where you can stroll around all night. Well, I suppose you could but it is different, hard to explain.
Leverick Bay area caters to the sailing crowd. We went over there a few times, did the hop over to Saba Rock, etc.
One thing about VG that really stands out in my memory is the attitude of the residents. Everyone we encountered was so friendly. Someone on this forum told me that native West Indians are invested financially in their island in a way they are not invested on STJ and it shows in their attitude and outlook on life. I agree with that sentiment. It is just different than on STJ.
Taxi drivers chatted me up while I was waiting outside a store and we had a lengthy conversation about American politics. I generally would never engage in a political discussion with a stranger but they were just so interested in an American perspective. At the Rock Café, the bartender threw his hands in the air and laughed when my 3 yo son didn’t know how to fist-bump and repeatedly came by our table to practice with him. People just seemed happier. I liked experiencing a different culture.
Anyway, the reason I mention this is I came home sort of down about VG but after some time passed, I realized how much I loved the island, we all did. We will go back.
Driving is very similar and you would definitely need a vehicle.
There are plenty of very close to the beach accommodations.
We stayed at Mahoe and all those houses come with a daily housekeeping service. I didn’t know what to think about this but it turned out great. The woman at our house was such a wealth of information. All the houses are within a short walking distance to the beach.
I would absolutely look at staying at Gauvaberry next trip. The units reminded me of cottages. This location is convenient to town.
Spanishtown is a grouping of businesses along a central thorough fare. It isn't a town like Cruz Bay where you can stroll around all night. Well, I suppose you could but it is different, hard to explain.
Leverick Bay area caters to the sailing crowd. We went over there a few times, did the hop over to Saba Rock, etc.
One thing about VG that really stands out in my memory is the attitude of the residents. Everyone we encountered was so friendly. Someone on this forum told me that native West Indians are invested financially in their island in a way they are not invested on STJ and it shows in their attitude and outlook on life. I agree with that sentiment. It is just different than on STJ.
Taxi drivers chatted me up while I was waiting outside a store and we had a lengthy conversation about American politics. I generally would never engage in a political discussion with a stranger but they were just so interested in an American perspective. At the Rock Café, the bartender threw his hands in the air and laughed when my 3 yo son didn’t know how to fist-bump and repeatedly came by our table to practice with him. People just seemed happier. I liked experiencing a different culture.
I'll say a little more about VG and how much we enjoyed it. We went there first on a day trip via ferry from STJ. We liked the feel of the island and were totally captivated by the boulder beaches. A couple of years later we went back for a week. We were there in early October, which is still deep in the low season, so I don't know how different the experience would be in February or March, but we loved it then.
The unique feature for us was the boulder beaches, so we definitely wanted to stay in the south of the island. They really entranced us and we didn't get to other beaches as much as we expected. We loved being in the caves at the Baths. Staying on the island allowed us to be there when there was no one else there and to be there at different times of day. The feel changes as the sun moves and the light changes. But the Baths/Devils Bay is only one of the boulder beaches and each is magnificent.
We did get around the island some, went over to Leverick, went up Gorda Peak, had great snorkeling at Savanna, but mostly just wanted to hang out in the boulders. When we go back we will get around to more beaches. Probably. Initially we thought about a day trip to Anegada but tended up being quite happy to stay on VG.
We were very happy in our cottage at Guavaberry. I was very taken by Beach House, which is one of he Guavaberry-managed villas, and is right on the beach at Spring Bay. We'd hang out at Spring Bay and I'd look at that villa and think "That's where I want to stay next time. That has to be one of the most beautiful locations in the world." Another forum member later did stay there and rather than being envious, I was delighted for him. Our turn, hopefully, will come. Guavaberry is very well run. It sits in the middle of the boulders and is very convenient to Spanishtown or to spectacular bars/restaurants like the Mineshaft or the places at the Baths.
We really enjoyed the people and culture of VG. We definitely felt that we were in the West Indies, visitors in another culture. Most businesses are owned and staffed by West Indians. On STJ the West Indian population and culture has become increasingly peripheral, being replaced by some sort of island lifestyle developed by transplants from the mainland. On VG there's a strong sense that the island people are still in control of their island. Our next Caribbean trip may be to Culebra or Vieques but we do plan to get back to VG.
The unique feature for us was the boulder beaches, so we definitely wanted to stay in the south of the island. They really entranced us and we didn't get to other beaches as much as we expected. We loved being in the caves at the Baths. Staying on the island allowed us to be there when there was no one else there and to be there at different times of day. The feel changes as the sun moves and the light changes. But the Baths/Devils Bay is only one of the boulder beaches and each is magnificent.
We did get around the island some, went over to Leverick, went up Gorda Peak, had great snorkeling at Savanna, but mostly just wanted to hang out in the boulders. When we go back we will get around to more beaches. Probably. Initially we thought about a day trip to Anegada but tended up being quite happy to stay on VG.
We were very happy in our cottage at Guavaberry. I was very taken by Beach House, which is one of he Guavaberry-managed villas, and is right on the beach at Spring Bay. We'd hang out at Spring Bay and I'd look at that villa and think "That's where I want to stay next time. That has to be one of the most beautiful locations in the world." Another forum member later did stay there and rather than being envious, I was delighted for him. Our turn, hopefully, will come. Guavaberry is very well run. It sits in the middle of the boulders and is very convenient to Spanishtown or to spectacular bars/restaurants like the Mineshaft or the places at the Baths.
We really enjoyed the people and culture of VG. We definitely felt that we were in the West Indies, visitors in another culture. Most businesses are owned and staffed by West Indians. On STJ the West Indian population and culture has become increasingly peripheral, being replaced by some sort of island lifestyle developed by transplants from the mainland. On VG there's a strong sense that the island people are still in control of their island. Our next Caribbean trip may be to Culebra or Vieques but we do plan to get back to VG.
Another vote for Virgin Gorda. I've posted many photos and comments in past trip reports posted here about our visits there. Search for em if interested using "guavaberry" as the search term cuz we've stayed there twice.
A different vibe than STJ, and not sure that all St. John fanatics would dig it (not as big or lush, not as many villa or dining options, not as many beaches), but I think that you would have the right attitude. The people are outstanding.
The only bad thing is that the VG airport is closed down for improvements, killing the more convenient option of at least flying in from or out to San Juan, knocking off some of the ferry time. Cape Air is supposed to start service to VG once completed (but don’t hold your breath), giving Air Sunshine and the bucket of bolts they fly some competition.
Besides Guavaberry, I might consider Nail Bay. Various kinds of accommodations there, plus a nice poolside bar/restaurant on site.
http://www.nailbay.com/accommodations.php
A different vibe than STJ, and not sure that all St. John fanatics would dig it (not as big or lush, not as many villa or dining options, not as many beaches), but I think that you would have the right attitude. The people are outstanding.
The only bad thing is that the VG airport is closed down for improvements, killing the more convenient option of at least flying in from or out to San Juan, knocking off some of the ferry time. Cape Air is supposed to start service to VG once completed (but don’t hold your breath), giving Air Sunshine and the bucket of bolts they fly some competition.
Besides Guavaberry, I might consider Nail Bay. Various kinds of accommodations there, plus a nice poolside bar/restaurant on site.
http://www.nailbay.com/accommodations.php
When we come to place where the sea and the sky collide
Throw me over the edge and let my spirit glide
Throw me over the edge and let my spirit glide
Saba Rock was cute but it's a TEENY little island: http://www.sabarock.com/accomm.html
Of course you're right next to Bitter End Yacht Club which would provide a bit of variety but these would be a resort experience. Prickly Pear is also next door. They all share the same "harbor" if you will so when I say they are next door I mean LITERALLY next door. I think they can shuttle you around by boat from place to place. But check on that first.
Jost is fun and very low key. The good thing about Jost is the ferry scehdule to Tortola -- so you can easily get there if you wanted to (in case it's too low key and quiet). Jost has limited lodging options Ivans has a guesthouse if you want an actual building to stay in. Otherwise there are cute cabins and campsites for CHEAP. There are other options as well.
One thing I've noticed with Villa rentals in the BVI (read: Tortola and VG) is they tend to come with a housekeeper or cook. Not sure how much cost that adds to the rental but something to keep in mind.
I was on a day sail a few years back and we stopped at Cooper Island and I always thought this would be a cool place to stay: http://www.cooper-island.com/
Again, it's small but you'll feel like you have the place to yourself! I think like 40 people live on island.
Of course you're right next to Bitter End Yacht Club which would provide a bit of variety but these would be a resort experience. Prickly Pear is also next door. They all share the same "harbor" if you will so when I say they are next door I mean LITERALLY next door. I think they can shuttle you around by boat from place to place. But check on that first.
Jost is fun and very low key. The good thing about Jost is the ferry scehdule to Tortola -- so you can easily get there if you wanted to (in case it's too low key and quiet). Jost has limited lodging options Ivans has a guesthouse if you want an actual building to stay in. Otherwise there are cute cabins and campsites for CHEAP. There are other options as well.
One thing I've noticed with Villa rentals in the BVI (read: Tortola and VG) is they tend to come with a housekeeper or cook. Not sure how much cost that adds to the rental but something to keep in mind.
I was on a day sail a few years back and we stopped at Cooper Island and I always thought this would be a cool place to stay: http://www.cooper-island.com/
Again, it's small but you'll feel like you have the place to yourself! I think like 40 people live on island.
*Another fine scatterbrained production
VG also has the prettiest beach I've ever been on...
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jmq/147659134/" title="VG11 valley trunk31F by jmq, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/53/14765 ... 716d99.jpg" width="500" height="310" alt="VG11 valley trunk31F"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jmq/147659134/" title="VG11 valley trunk31F by jmq, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/53/14765 ... 716d99.jpg" width="500" height="310" alt="VG11 valley trunk31F"></a>
When we come to place where the sea and the sky collide
Throw me over the edge and let my spirit glide
Throw me over the edge and let my spirit glide
Another Virgin Gorda and Guavaberry fan. If you don't need luxury their cottages are really fine and have everything you need. Great views from all of them. If you like a villa they also manage a number of private villas nearby. Then you can also use Guavaberry's facilities (office, TV-room, commissary, computers etc).
It's a slower pace in VG than on STJ. I love them both.
Two days until we leave...
It's a slower pace in VG than on STJ. I love them both.
Two days until we leave...
Great to hear you re-booked. Hope that volcano stays quiet this time. Have fun and give the GB doggies a scratch behind the ears for me!Maggy wrote:Another Virgin Gorda and Guavaberry fan. If you don't need luxury their cottages are really fine and have everything you need. Great views from all of them. If you like a villa they also manage a number of private villas nearby. Then you can also use Guavaberry's facilities (office, TV-room, commissary, computers etc).
It's a slower pace in VG than on STJ. I love them both.
Two days until we leave...
When we come to place where the sea and the sky collide
Throw me over the edge and let my spirit glide
Throw me over the edge and let my spirit glide