See villa with manager or...

[NoWorriesMom]

Any reason why we should choose to see the villa with the on-island manager versus they leave a key for us? Our thought is that, with the key left, we can dawdle and/or make unexpected stops (meal or beach). Is there any important reason to meet the manager? Thanks for any info!

[augie]

On our last trip after the greeter had shown us where everything was, and how everything worked, we had to sign a form stating that she had done so.

So, in some cases at least, there may be contractual obligations involved.

[NoWorriesMom]

The owner offered us the choice so I'll ask about what you said and go from there. Thanks!

[djmom]

I might want to see it in case there is something broken that jumps out at you- that you would like them to note.

Sometimes the AC units have little quirks...like door has to be locked for it to work or something. Good to know info.

You also might not be able to fit all your stuff in your jeep unless you ride over with the villa mgr....

[Gromit]

Do you know exactly where the villa is? For us this is always a big issue as vilas seem to be in the most unucual places and if someone didn't actually show us where it is we'd probably never find it!

Dpeending on what time you arrive (after dark?) this may also be an issue.

Also, and this is just a CYA thing. But if you get to the villa and there's a problem it's basically your word against theirs. Vs. if you go through the place together and discover an issue you can point it out from the get go and they can't hold you responsible.

Now if you;'ve rented this place before and know the manager and the house well, I don't see a problem with them leaving the key. But under other circumstances I would expect them to meet you and take you to the place and give you the tour.

[liamsaunt]

I like to look at the house with the manager so they can show me how everything works. The biggest thing for me is where all the lights are. Even with a walkthrough, there was one house that it took us three days to find the pool light (it was in the WEIRDEST place!), and other time we never did figure out how to turn the outside walkway lights on. I should have called, but I never thought of it until after business hours!

For places I have rerented, I just have them leave the keys at the house for me.

[AnyTing]

I would strongly recommend seeing the villa with the manager if you have never stayed in it before. As others have mentioned, sometimes the location is hard to find and the manager can show you where things are, how things work, and what to do if something doesn't work. I would only opt for the "keys under the mat" when you are a repeat visitor to a villa you have been in before.

[NoWorriesMom]

Thanks for the feedback all. I've realized the reason I asked was because unless there was some incredibly important reason to meet with the manager I just don't want to start off the trip with an appointment. We'd have to set up a time and place to meet in Coral Bay and well, that just doesn't seem like a relaxing start! Cross your fingers for me, I'm sure my trip report will start with "we couldn't find the villa". Oh well, might as well keep with our trend! Speaking of that, anyone have a funny/crazy "how we began our trip" incident? My mom's suitcase once was either under a rain spout on the ferry or temporarily fell overboard because when we arrived at the our hotel room, her stuff was SOAKED. All of it. Drenched! Anyone else?

[djmom]

You've been to St. John before or no? I couldn't quite tell..

Usually the manager will meet you at your car rental or the dock.

That's one of the biggest benefits in my opinion. Depending on the size of your rental vehicle, the person will usually load their car up with your stuff...and one of you ride with them.

That is pretty standard, I think, but I could be wrong.

[lazylane]

The relaxation starts the second you step off that plane and feel/smell that air!!!! Don't think of meeting the villa manager as an "appointment", but rather the first step to a relaxing vacation!!!! I agree with the others that this is important, not only to go over the quirks of the villa, but they are usually a wealth of knowledge about the island also. Most will work with you on meeting, etc. Our villa was in Coral Bay and since we were familiar with the area, we told them not to drive in to Cruz Bay, but meet us at Island Blues parking area and we'll give you a call when we are leaving Cruz Bay!! That way we got our jeeps, a few supplies, etc. without having a set time!!