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More questions for first timers this summer?
More questions for first timers this summer?
Hi again - I am keeping all your responses for our trip this summer. Everyone is so helpful. Since this is our first trip I want to be prepared.
1)We are first time snorkelers but all pretty good swimmers. Our two kids who will be 10 and son turning 14 on Island are both good swimmers. Do we need vests or noodles if snorkeling for first time or will we just be staying close to shore? If so, can we purchase on Island?
2)I know some people bring meat but for us I really do not want to do this. We do want to cook on the grill so is the meat ok on STJ. Burgers, chicken, etc.?
3)What type of footwear? Will we look silly wearing sneakers? I have bad feet as well as husband and feel confomfortable wearing sneakers. No, not on the beach but maybe on the plane and out to dinner. When we go to beach what do most people wear? Husband is allergic to bees so do not want him getting stung if possible. He does carry epie pens everywhere but really do not want to visit the clinic if possible.
4)This may sound silly but will we need a sweatshirt at night. We are staying on Bordeaux mountain high on the hill.
5)How far in advance should I book Rachel?
6)We are hoping to do carryon. Will I really be able to stuff four snorkel sets and fins in our carryon? Two of them will be kids sets. Should we get a porter? Anything to make flying easier as I do not like to fly.
7)Since this is our first trip should we do a charter (private). If we do probably with Palm tree. We will be there for 9 days or should we wait till next time assuming their will be a next time.
You guys ar the best. Thanks so much for always answering my questions even though they may seem silly at times.
Can you tell I am excited!!!!!!
1)We are first time snorkelers but all pretty good swimmers. Our two kids who will be 10 and son turning 14 on Island are both good swimmers. Do we need vests or noodles if snorkeling for first time or will we just be staying close to shore? If so, can we purchase on Island?
2)I know some people bring meat but for us I really do not want to do this. We do want to cook on the grill so is the meat ok on STJ. Burgers, chicken, etc.?
3)What type of footwear? Will we look silly wearing sneakers? I have bad feet as well as husband and feel confomfortable wearing sneakers. No, not on the beach but maybe on the plane and out to dinner. When we go to beach what do most people wear? Husband is allergic to bees so do not want him getting stung if possible. He does carry epie pens everywhere but really do not want to visit the clinic if possible.
4)This may sound silly but will we need a sweatshirt at night. We are staying on Bordeaux mountain high on the hill.
5)How far in advance should I book Rachel?
6)We are hoping to do carryon. Will I really be able to stuff four snorkel sets and fins in our carryon? Two of them will be kids sets. Should we get a porter? Anything to make flying easier as I do not like to fly.
7)Since this is our first trip should we do a charter (private). If we do probably with Palm tree. We will be there for 9 days or should we wait till next time assuming their will be a next time.
You guys ar the best. Thanks so much for always answering my questions even though they may seem silly at times.
Can you tell I am excited!!!!!!
Re: More questions for first timers this summer?
Hawaii wrote:Hi again - I am keeping all your responses for our trip this summer. Everyone is so helpful. Since this is our first trip I want to be prepared.
1)We are first time snorkelers but all pretty good swimmers. Our two kids who will be 10 and son turning 14 on Island are both good swimmers. Do we need vests or noodles if snorkeling for first time or will we just be staying close to shore? If so, can we purchase on Island? Most villa's will have noodles if not they can be bought at the hardware store my kids didn't need any thing.
2)I know some people bring meat but for us I really do not want to do this. We do want to cook on the grill so is the meat ok on STJ. Burgers, chicken, etc.? The meat is fine but selection is limited
3)What type of footwear? Will we look silly wearing sneakers? I have bad feet as well as husband and feel confomfortable wearing sneakers. No, not on the beach but maybe on the plane and out to dinner. When we go to beach what do most people wear? Husband is allergic to bees so do not want him getting stung if possible. He does carry epie pens everywhere but really do not want to visit the clinic if possible. I bring sneakers but find I spend most of the time in my teva's
4)This may sound silly but will we need a sweatshirt at night. We are staying on Bordeaux mountain high on the hill. I have never needed a sweatshirt on island but some do depends of you
5)How far in advance should I book Rachel?
6)We are hoping to do carryon. Will I really be able to stuff four snorkel sets and fins in our carryon? Two of them will be kids sets. Should we get a porter? Anything to make flying easier as I do not like to fly. I fit 2 sets in my snorkle bag as my personal item and have my carry on for clothes
7)Since this is our first trip should we do a charter (private). If we do probably with Palm tree. We will be there for 9 days or should we wait till next time assuming their will be a next time. I like to see the island from the water so a boat ride is a must do
You guys ar the best. Thanks so much for always answering my questions even though they may seem silly at times.
Can you tell I am excited!!!!!!
Tom
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chicagoans
- Posts: 1586
- Joined: Thu Jan 18, 2007 2:51 pm
- Location: IL
My kids didn't need vests or noodles either, but we rented boogie boards at Crabby's our first trip and brought our own the second trip just because they're fun and the kids like them.
We wear Keen's for hiking / beach. DS wore sneakers and that's fine. Most restaurants are casual so sneaks should be fine; I mostly wore flip flops or sandals to dinner. If you're planning a dinner at one of the more upscale restaurants you might want to check with them (or here!). We've never been to Zozo's, Asolare, etc., so I don't know what people generally wear there.
You'll be fine finding things on island for the grill. As Waterguy said, less selection. Prices will be higher, but you probably expect that anyway.
Our trips have been in the winter, and I've worn light jackets (warm up/workout type jackets) in the evening sometimes when it's breezy. I had to bring them anyway because of our return flight back to the cold. Layers are good.
A porter is helpful especially if the airport is busy. They'll take you right to the customs line.
I'm a carry on fan but it's becoming more of a pain with more people carrying on. My last flight I used a bag I've carried on several times, but this time the gate agent made me stick it in the frame / template thing to see if it fit. I had stuffed it, so it didn't fit. Had to check it at the gate, which was fine, but still took extra time. So you might want to measure your bags to make sure they fit the requirements.
Yes to the boat trip! And yes... there will be a next time. You'll be hooked just like the rest of us!
We wear Keen's for hiking / beach. DS wore sneakers and that's fine. Most restaurants are casual so sneaks should be fine; I mostly wore flip flops or sandals to dinner. If you're planning a dinner at one of the more upscale restaurants you might want to check with them (or here!). We've never been to Zozo's, Asolare, etc., so I don't know what people generally wear there.
You'll be fine finding things on island for the grill. As Waterguy said, less selection. Prices will be higher, but you probably expect that anyway.
Our trips have been in the winter, and I've worn light jackets (warm up/workout type jackets) in the evening sometimes when it's breezy. I had to bring them anyway because of our return flight back to the cold. Layers are good.
A porter is helpful especially if the airport is busy. They'll take you right to the customs line.
I'm a carry on fan but it's becoming more of a pain with more people carrying on. My last flight I used a bag I've carried on several times, but this time the gate agent made me stick it in the frame / template thing to see if it fit. I had stuffed it, so it didn't fit. Had to check it at the gate, which was fine, but still took extra time. So you might want to measure your bags to make sure they fit the requirements.
Yes to the boat trip! And yes... there will be a next time. You'll be hooked just like the rest of us!
We stayed high on Bordeaux Mt. in May/June and didn't need a sweatshirt. The temperature at night was comfortable to us.
As for meat, yes, the selection is rather limited. If you are used to certain kinds/quality of meat and don't want to live without them, you should probably bring them from home. We never bring meat or anything frozen to the island. We cook at the villa half of the time we are there and do just fine.
Rachel has gotten really popular. We used to call her a couple of weeks prior even for our Saturday arrivals and she was available. Now, we might call her a couple of months before (or earlier?), especially if we are arriving Saturday, which is a major arrival/departure day there.
I'm finally considering a boat trip after years of visiting the Virgin Islands. It's never too early to go on a boat trip, but it can be too late (never know what will happen with your life!) and I'm trying to avoid that now.
As for meat, yes, the selection is rather limited. If you are used to certain kinds/quality of meat and don't want to live without them, you should probably bring them from home. We never bring meat or anything frozen to the island. We cook at the villa half of the time we are there and do just fine.
Rachel has gotten really popular. We used to call her a couple of weeks prior even for our Saturday arrivals and she was available. Now, we might call her a couple of months before (or earlier?), especially if we are arriving Saturday, which is a major arrival/departure day there.
I'm finally considering a boat trip after years of visiting the Virgin Islands. It's never too early to go on a boat trip, but it can be too late (never know what will happen with your life!) and I'm trying to avoid that now.
Hi
Here are my answers:
1. Snorkeling. I would definitely rent some sort of buoyancy belt, especially for your kids. We rented them from the snorkeling/dive shop at the Westin, it was only about $15 for a week. It's a foam rectangle that belts around your middle, much more buoyant and secure than a noodle. We rented one for my 7 year old just to give us (and her) more confidence about her snorkeling, but both my husband and I ended up using it too when she wasn't snorkeling so we rented another one. It really helps you save your energy so you can snorkel further. Plus gives an extra sense of security that if you do overestimate your abilities and tire out, you can just sit there and float to get your breath and energy back before heading back in.
2. Bringing snorkel set. We usually just bring our masks & snorkels, and rent fins (also for about $15/week) when we're down there. We only have dive fins (big and bulky and you have to use booties with them), but even if we had snorkel fins, it's not worth it to me to take up all that room in the luggage bringing them when you can rent them on the island. I bring my own mask & snorkel though -- don't want others' cooties!
3. Shoes. Anything goes. St. John is EXTREMELY casual. Even in the evening and in the restaurants. I used to bring down different sets of clothes but then found that we all lived in tshirts and shorts with flip flops so now fly down in pants, sweatshirt, sneakers and usually end up putting them away until it's time to fly back.
4. Meat. The markets are fine, the selection is ok just a little expensive, but it is not worth the hassle to me to bring down my own food. I have never not been able to find something I wanted at Starfish. Maybe if I were more of a gourmet I would have a problem, but they have everything we eat.
Here are my answers:
1. Snorkeling. I would definitely rent some sort of buoyancy belt, especially for your kids. We rented them from the snorkeling/dive shop at the Westin, it was only about $15 for a week. It's a foam rectangle that belts around your middle, much more buoyant and secure than a noodle. We rented one for my 7 year old just to give us (and her) more confidence about her snorkeling, but both my husband and I ended up using it too when she wasn't snorkeling so we rented another one. It really helps you save your energy so you can snorkel further. Plus gives an extra sense of security that if you do overestimate your abilities and tire out, you can just sit there and float to get your breath and energy back before heading back in.
2. Bringing snorkel set. We usually just bring our masks & snorkels, and rent fins (also for about $15/week) when we're down there. We only have dive fins (big and bulky and you have to use booties with them), but even if we had snorkel fins, it's not worth it to me to take up all that room in the luggage bringing them when you can rent them on the island. I bring my own mask & snorkel though -- don't want others' cooties!
3. Shoes. Anything goes. St. John is EXTREMELY casual. Even in the evening and in the restaurants. I used to bring down different sets of clothes but then found that we all lived in tshirts and shorts with flip flops so now fly down in pants, sweatshirt, sneakers and usually end up putting them away until it's time to fly back.
4. Meat. The markets are fine, the selection is ok just a little expensive, but it is not worth the hassle to me to bring down my own food. I have never not been able to find something I wanted at Starfish. Maybe if I were more of a gourmet I would have a problem, but they have everything we eat.
Forgot to add that we bring down cheap inflatable floats. Our kids really like them, and we ended up liking to float around on them too. The Spring floats work well, they're mesh with inflatable edges, so they pack pretty small. I bought them at bass pro shops. Not sure about boogie boards, I've been down when there were swells on the north shore that would have worked well, also been down when all the beaches were like glass. I'd suggest waiting until you get there to decide whether to rent them or not.
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Capn Dan and Ruby
- Posts: 1006
- Joined: Sat Sep 05, 2009 10:08 pm
- Location: PC Florida
*If you are good swimmers just enjoy!!!
* We have short fins by US diver. They are great and fit wonderfully in cary on. I put each persons gear in their carry on with their stuff.
* I have really bad feet and back and wear my Keens almost exclusivly. I looked for the ones that have the least strap material. They are expensive, but mine are going on their 4th year and look almsot new.
*Meat... what every one else said
*A light jacket for the airplane is good, then you have it if you need it.
*I would book Rachael as soon as possible... she is great!
*Boat- I love Cpt. Phil with the Wayward Sailor. He is so educational esp. with the kids!
AND YOU WILL DEFINATLY WANT TO RETURN!!!
* We have short fins by US diver. They are great and fit wonderfully in cary on. I put each persons gear in their carry on with their stuff.
* I have really bad feet and back and wear my Keens almost exclusivly. I looked for the ones that have the least strap material. They are expensive, but mine are going on their 4th year and look almsot new.
*Meat... what every one else said
*A light jacket for the airplane is good, then you have it if you need it.
*I would book Rachael as soon as possible... she is great!
*Boat- I love Cpt. Phil with the Wayward Sailor. He is so educational esp. with the kids!
AND YOU WILL DEFINATLY WANT TO RETURN!!!
Hey there 1st timer! We've been twice..once without kids, and this past June with our kids that are nearly the same age as yours.
1. Our kids are good swimmers. My wife snorkels a little, and I love it and spend most of my beach time in the water with a mask and snorkel. They did great without any flotation. I did get their gear early and got them in the pool with it before our trip.
2. We have never taken food. We did ship some pop-tarts and breakfast stuff down...see #6.
3. Flip flops almost exclusively...and barefoot the rest of the time. We all took two pair of flip flops...a nice pair and a beach pair. Well, I think the girls snuck in an extra pair or two!
4. Never needed one in the summer. Wife and daughter had a hoodie/jacket for inside dinners, but rarely used it.
5. We used booked Rachel about 6-8 weeks in advance. You will be taken care of, no worries with Rachel.
6. We've gone carryon both trips. My wife never thought she could. The four of us had no issues, but I mailed the snorkel gear and sunscreen down ahead of time to Connections. For 4 of us, it was more expensive than checking a bag, but less than checking two and worth the "less-hassle" factor IMO. Also packed a few simple breakfast items in the box with the gear.
7. Boat trip: YES! My wife and I sailed with Survivan (Jason and Lou Carter) to Jost and had a blast. Not a private sail, but very fun and relaxing. With the kids we saliled on Fly Girl to Jost. Fly Girl is a small catamaran which is a little smoother than a monohull like Survivan, but both were great. Fly Girl was a little more difficult to get in and out of for snorkeling, and you will get wet getting on and off the boat. We've never done a powerboat charter, but it's on the list!
1. Our kids are good swimmers. My wife snorkels a little, and I love it and spend most of my beach time in the water with a mask and snorkel. They did great without any flotation. I did get their gear early and got them in the pool with it before our trip.
2. We have never taken food. We did ship some pop-tarts and breakfast stuff down...see #6.
3. Flip flops almost exclusively...and barefoot the rest of the time. We all took two pair of flip flops...a nice pair and a beach pair. Well, I think the girls snuck in an extra pair or two!
4. Never needed one in the summer. Wife and daughter had a hoodie/jacket for inside dinners, but rarely used it.
5. We used booked Rachel about 6-8 weeks in advance. You will be taken care of, no worries with Rachel.
6. We've gone carryon both trips. My wife never thought she could. The four of us had no issues, but I mailed the snorkel gear and sunscreen down ahead of time to Connections. For 4 of us, it was more expensive than checking a bag, but less than checking two and worth the "less-hassle" factor IMO. Also packed a few simple breakfast items in the box with the gear.
7. Boat trip: YES! My wife and I sailed with Survivan (Jason and Lou Carter) to Jost and had a blast. Not a private sail, but very fun and relaxing. With the kids we saliled on Fly Girl to Jost. Fly Girl is a small catamaran which is a little smoother than a monohull like Survivan, but both were great. Fly Girl was a little more difficult to get in and out of for snorkeling, and you will get wet getting on and off the boat. We've never done a powerboat charter, but it's on the list!
KT
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toes in the sand
- Posts: 994
- Joined: Mon Oct 08, 2007 2:21 pm
Re: More questions for first timers this summer?
Hawaii wrote: Here are my answers in blue. Note that we only visit during the winter months and not with children. Your needs will vary I am sure.
1)We are first time snorkelers but all pretty good swimmers. Our two kids who will be 10 and son turning 14 on Island are both good swimmers. Do we need vests or noodles if snorkeling for first time or will we just be staying close to shore? If so, can we purchase on Island?
You can usually find protected waters on St John to snorkel in and good swimmers should feel comfortable. BUT it doesn't hurt to have someone with a float especially for the first snorkel. It helps to feel safe and secure when learning. If someone is constantly worried it definately detracts from the experience. You will usually find a mat or noodles or inflatable at your villa. If not, as mentioned, you can find them at the hardware store above Starfish Market.
2)I know some people bring meat but for us I really do not want to do this. We do want to cook on the grill so is the meat ok on STJ. Burgers, chicken, etc.?
We never have had a problem finding good eats and meats on StJ. We use Starfish.
3)What type of footwear? Will we look silly wearing sneakers? I have bad feet as well as husband and feel confomfortable wearing sneakers. No, not on the beach but maybe on the plane and out to dinner. When we go to beach what do most people wear? Husband is allergic to bees so do not want him getting stung if possible. He does carry epie pens everywhere but really do not want to visit the clinic if possible.
We live in our flip flops on StJ. Sneakers are certainly acceptable except at the finer dining establishments.
4)This may sound silly but will we need a sweatshirt at night. We are staying on Bordeaux mountain high on the hill.
Not a silly question. I can only answer for the winter months. A sweatshirt is advised on Bordeaux Mtn in December. The night time breezes are wonderful. We stayed at Bayview.
5)How far in advance should I book Rachel?
We have only used regular taxi service and have never had a problem catching the first ferry after our plane arrival.
6)We are hoping to do carryon. Will I really be able to stuff four snorkel sets and fins in our carryon? Two of them will be kids sets. Should we get a porter? Anything to make flying easier as I do not like to fly.
I use a snorkel bag for our gear. Make sure that the mask glass' are protected. I hear that a porter is helpful especially when leaving the USVI. We have not used them.
7)Since this is our first trip should we do a charter (private). If we do probably with Palm tree. We will be there for 9 days or should we wait till next time assuming their will be a next time.
We have stayed on St John a number of times and are still finding new places to visit and enjoy on island and many things still to do on our StJ bucket list. We have not found the need to take a boat trip. The only trips we have considered are sunset sails. Pick up a copy of 'Off the Beaten Path' by Gerald Singer for things to do on island.
You guys ar the best. Thanks so much for always answering my questions even though they may seem silly at times.
Can you tell I am excited!!!!!!
"got a drink in my hand and my toes in the sand"
We all know how you feel. No worries your trip will be fabulous! Especially with some help from the forum!
1)Check the house see if they have any noodles. It wouldn't hurt to get them a snorkel vest before you leave (you can order on line or vsiit a dive shop). But if they are good swimmers and use the buddy system and stay with a grown up they should have no issues. Most of the problems come because snorkelers get too close to shallow coral and can get pushed into them by a wave. Make sure they keep their distance when in doubt. Water is mostly calm in summer though.
2)The meat issue for most folks IMHO is grounded in quality, selection, price and convenience. If you don't want to bring it you can find it. But the cuts may not be the best and you can expect to pay top dollar for what options are available. More choices on STT as well but unless you are traveling with a cooler this doesn't make sense. There's something to be said for taking meat down with you esp if a Costco is convenient. But if you don't want to hassle just bring $$ -- you'll need it and don;t expect to find the exact same quality as you do at home.
3) I am a Keens girl these days. I cannot say ebough about how comfy, supportive and perfect these shoes are for a place like STJ. This time of year you might be able to score some on sale (off season). The cheapest I have paid for a pair is around $59. Look for the H2's. Lots of colors to choose from and I promise you that you will love them and wear them constantly. These days I pack three pairs of shoes: Keen H2's; a pair of sanuk flip flops and a pair of sanuk loafers. Sanuk is popular with the surfer crowd. They feel like slippers.
No. People will not care if you wear sneakers. Wear what's comfy. But trust me when I say that Keens are a better bet. They feel like sneakers but are boat, sand and water friendlier than sneakers.
The thing about STJ is that everything is casual. EVERYTHING (only exception is Caneel Bay restaurants which have "standards"). Everywhere else will serve you as slong as you aren't naked.
One good rule though is to never, ever, ever walk around in a bathing suit and cover up unless you are actuallY AT the beach. This is a no, no in town and folks will give you dirty looks. SKip the fancy stuff at the beach as well.
Big hats and sarongs and fancy sandals are NOT the way to go.
Think: t-shirts, cut offs, flip flops and a ball cap.
IN terms of bees, I don't ever recall coming across them on island. Surely they exist but I haven't ever seen one.
IF you do have a health misshap I hear that the Myrah Keating Smith clinic is pretty great.
4)In summer you will likely NOT need a sweatshirt even up on the mountain. In the winter is a different story. I always bring a light sweatshirt or at least one long sleeve shirt for cooler nights when I visit in December. But in June you'll be sweating your ass off. I usually am.
5)Can't help you with Rachel reservations. She's apparently a lovely woman and a lot of folks love her, but I have always used the regular taxis without issue. They are always great and always get me to the ferry on time. I prefer to save the extra $$ for vacay, not taxi service. But to each his/her own. My point is that a private taxi si not a necessity. In fact most folks just pile into the vans with other folks and get to the ferry just fine.
6) I have never successfully managed to do carry-on. EVER. But that's just me. I like to have my stuff with me and don't want to have to buy stuff on island that I already own but didn't bring. If you have shortie fins then I can imagine that they would fit into the standard size carry on.
If they are full size, good luck with that. I will usually pack a snorkel and mask in my carry on along with a change of clothes, bathing suits and flip flops as well as a few other personal items (just in case my checked luggage gets diverted to Alaska or something).
Don't worry about a porter getting to the taxi and ferry. Not necessary (esp if you are doing carry on only).
Going home is an entirely different matter. A porter will help speed things along through check in and customs. Best $20 you'll spend on vacay.
7) Boat trips are a great way to see the island from a different perspective. Capt Brandi is an awesome guy and given that this is your first time he's a great option. Since you are there for 9 days, taking a boat day works.
That being said, there is plenty to see and do on STJ without having to take a boat trip. If you are doing things right, you will slip into island time and one day will melt into the next and before you know it, it's time to go home.
So the decision to take a boat day is based on your budget and activity level.
Hope this helps!
1)Check the house see if they have any noodles. It wouldn't hurt to get them a snorkel vest before you leave (you can order on line or vsiit a dive shop). But if they are good swimmers and use the buddy system and stay with a grown up they should have no issues. Most of the problems come because snorkelers get too close to shallow coral and can get pushed into them by a wave. Make sure they keep their distance when in doubt. Water is mostly calm in summer though.
2)The meat issue for most folks IMHO is grounded in quality, selection, price and convenience. If you don't want to bring it you can find it. But the cuts may not be the best and you can expect to pay top dollar for what options are available. More choices on STT as well but unless you are traveling with a cooler this doesn't make sense. There's something to be said for taking meat down with you esp if a Costco is convenient. But if you don't want to hassle just bring $$ -- you'll need it and don;t expect to find the exact same quality as you do at home.
3) I am a Keens girl these days. I cannot say ebough about how comfy, supportive and perfect these shoes are for a place like STJ. This time of year you might be able to score some on sale (off season). The cheapest I have paid for a pair is around $59. Look for the H2's. Lots of colors to choose from and I promise you that you will love them and wear them constantly. These days I pack three pairs of shoes: Keen H2's; a pair of sanuk flip flops and a pair of sanuk loafers. Sanuk is popular with the surfer crowd. They feel like slippers.
No. People will not care if you wear sneakers. Wear what's comfy. But trust me when I say that Keens are a better bet. They feel like sneakers but are boat, sand and water friendlier than sneakers.
The thing about STJ is that everything is casual. EVERYTHING (only exception is Caneel Bay restaurants which have "standards"). Everywhere else will serve you as slong as you aren't naked.
One good rule though is to never, ever, ever walk around in a bathing suit and cover up unless you are actuallY AT the beach. This is a no, no in town and folks will give you dirty looks. SKip the fancy stuff at the beach as well.
Big hats and sarongs and fancy sandals are NOT the way to go.
Think: t-shirts, cut offs, flip flops and a ball cap.
IN terms of bees, I don't ever recall coming across them on island. Surely they exist but I haven't ever seen one.
IF you do have a health misshap I hear that the Myrah Keating Smith clinic is pretty great.
4)In summer you will likely NOT need a sweatshirt even up on the mountain. In the winter is a different story. I always bring a light sweatshirt or at least one long sleeve shirt for cooler nights when I visit in December. But in June you'll be sweating your ass off. I usually am.
5)Can't help you with Rachel reservations. She's apparently a lovely woman and a lot of folks love her, but I have always used the regular taxis without issue. They are always great and always get me to the ferry on time. I prefer to save the extra $$ for vacay, not taxi service. But to each his/her own. My point is that a private taxi si not a necessity. In fact most folks just pile into the vans with other folks and get to the ferry just fine.
6) I have never successfully managed to do carry-on. EVER. But that's just me. I like to have my stuff with me and don't want to have to buy stuff on island that I already own but didn't bring. If you have shortie fins then I can imagine that they would fit into the standard size carry on.
If they are full size, good luck with that. I will usually pack a snorkel and mask in my carry on along with a change of clothes, bathing suits and flip flops as well as a few other personal items (just in case my checked luggage gets diverted to Alaska or something).
Don't worry about a porter getting to the taxi and ferry. Not necessary (esp if you are doing carry on only).
Going home is an entirely different matter. A porter will help speed things along through check in and customs. Best $20 you'll spend on vacay.
7) Boat trips are a great way to see the island from a different perspective. Capt Brandi is an awesome guy and given that this is your first time he's a great option. Since you are there for 9 days, taking a boat day works.
That being said, there is plenty to see and do on STJ without having to take a boat trip. If you are doing things right, you will slip into island time and one day will melt into the next and before you know it, it's time to go home.
So the decision to take a boat day is based on your budget and activity level.
Hope this helps!
*Another fine scatterbrained production
Wow - you guys are so great. Thanks for the information.
Gromit - Thanks for your answers they were just what I needed to hear. My husband will love just being in t-shirts and shorts and me too!!! I will check with the villa manager to see if they have noodles.
Thanks again everyone. More questions to come as I keep researching and yes I have the two books that everyone always recommends.
Gromit - Thanks for your answers they were just what I needed to hear. My husband will love just being in t-shirts and shorts and me too!!! I will check with the villa manager to see if they have noodles.
Thanks again everyone. More questions to come as I keep researching and yes I have the two books that everyone always recommends.