Looking for St. John, USVI condo, couple nights Feb 2012

[Evita6]

We're staying at the Westin in St. John for 3 nights (already paid). We'd like to go 2 or 3 days before or after but want something less expensive. Any advice for last-minute short stay? Prefer kitchenette. I've looked at hotels and VRBO and many have minimum stays. Has anyone used Priceline for St. John, USVI? I've heard the Westin is the only St. John property on Priceline. We might consider St. Thomas but have heard St. John is quieter.

[GraysonDave]

I was successful in getting 2 nights at Grande Bay a couple of years ago by filling a 2-night hole in an owner's schedule. Even got a discount on the rate. Found it on vrbo and just got lucky when the dates matched exactly.

Otherwise, you could try the Cruz Bay boutique hotel (penthouse has kitchen) or the St John Inn (not sure about kitchens). They are not as nice as the Westin but they're much cheaper and they are conveniently located.

Good luck.

[Sumerwaters]

Try Coconut Coast Villas.

[Tracy in WI]

I own at Grande Bay and have very few dates available in February - let me know when you're looking to arrive and I'll see if I have anything or can check with my property manager as she manages other units as well.

One thing to note is that most owners might not pass on too much of a discount because the management/cleaning fees exist whether our guests stay for one night or seven.

[GraysonDave]

One thing to note is that most owners might not pass on too much of a discount because the management/cleaning fees exist whether our guests stay for one night or seven.

Very true. I don't know how much it costs for cleaning or to pay a villa greeter or other costs. I do realize it's not just "gravy" for the owner. Normal cost at the time was $350/nt with a 3 night minimum. I paid $250/nt plus tax for 2 nights. $250 was the offseason rate at the time. The owner was actually the one coming in at the end of our 2 nights, so I figure I might have paid enough after expenses for them to have a couple of nice dinners out during their stay.

[Boston Mike]

Lavender Hills

[Need2GetAway]

Evita - I sent you over here from Fodors. Let us know if something works out for you. Good luck!