Help with Villas in St. John in May

[sparis]

Hi - This is our first time going to St. John and realizing we should have booked a Villa months ago, as many of the ones that are just perfect (location, price, amenities) are already booked. That said, we've narrowed to a few, but would love some opinions from the seemingly very informed people on this site. We're traveling at the end of May into June

We're looking at:

Time Out (Destination St. John) - this is a bit pricier, but fully air conditioned and very cute. One concern is we're getting a much smaller villa for the money, BUT there are only two of us. Tons of amenities. The only other concern is we've heard that while Chocolate Hole is awesome, this area does get hotter during the day and stays hotter in the evenings that say Coral Bay. We've also see that Time Out is a bit lower down on the hill, so weren't sure if it would be buggier at night. The last review of this villa was like 5 years ago, so was hoping to get some updated opinions.

Winsome House (Destination St. John) - Price is slightly less than Time Out, but a lot more villa for the money. Apparently they just installed AC, but everything we hear about Ajax Peak is that even in May you barely need the AC because of the breezes. This has less amenities than Time Out (no hot tub) but wondering if Coral Bay/Ajax Point will be a nicer and more secluded area than Chocolate Hole. Less convenient, but the views look even more breathtaking

Villa Aria (Carribean Villas St. John) - This one is much less, cost wise. It has air-conditioning in the bedrooms and seems very secluded and yet not too far from many things and beautiful views. It seems small, but comparable to Time Out. Our concern here is that it looks a bit dated and wondering if it is (the old, you get what you pay for thing) and that because its in the midst of all that lush vegetation on Ajax Mountain it may be quite buggy at night in May. Reviews of this are at least 3 years old, so again looking for thoughts.

Open to any further suggestions, the challenge has been so many villas for our dates are booked and we're running out of time, so to speak. Appreciate any tips, advice or opinions on the above mentioned villas.

Thanks so much,
St John Newbies

[nancyr84]

We did stay at Time Out but it was our first trip 7 years ago. The villa is very nice but I would not stay there again because I like higher up views and from this Villa you can see tons of other houses. The Villa however was the best equipped we have ever stayed at . It was great for a first trip close to town. Check out One Particular Harbour we loved that one great view, private .
Nancy

[msgcolleen]

Hi sparis! Welcome to the friendliest and oh so knowledgeable forum!
I think you have narrowed it down to 3 nice villas. It really just depends on what kind of amenities and views you are looking for.
Time out is the closest to town and the Chocolate Hole Bay and faces west for sunset views. We stayed right below it last Oct. and had no issues with heat or bugs in the evening. A pool/hot tub is a plus!
Aria and Winsome sit high above Coral Bay facing east for sun and moon rise. You should get great breezes up there but it is a bit of a drive to get there.
Since this is your first time on STJ, I would recommend Time Out. But if you're up for adventure on the road to Coral Bay, go for it! Whatever you choose, you will have a great time.
One last thought, check out Cinnamon Tarn for out of this world North shore views . . . Good luck!