USVI-On-Line

Back in the 80's, as newlyweds, my husband and I tood a trip to St Croix (our 1st trip to the Virgin Islands) and we heard about this magical place called St John. It sounded just our kind of place but we didnt get there until 2003. After 3 trips in 3 years, we decided to try some other places. Back in 03, people used to say "Where is St John" and "Dont you means St Johns". Now, I know alot of people who have been there and have found the same magic that we had discovered.
Now, after these other places, we find ourselves heading back to STJ. Our 2 sons, now 20 years old (twins) are really looking forward to going back to experience STJ as an adult. They laugh because we never took them to Disney World and they complained... Now they say how we spoiled them by taking them to such a great place.
Never in my life have I been to such a wonderful place. All the other places we have been have never measured up and we ALWAYS compare it to STJ. We are a little nervous how things have changed in the last 4 years with so much with the development on the island but we are excited to find out whats new and different. Thanks to everyone on the forum for geting me back in the swing. I started on the forum in 2003 and am back after too long of a hiatus. 90 days until we go. Yay.

welcome back!

welcome back to the fold. we addicts love more company!

Can't wait to get my FIX in July!!!

Well said! I agree. (but you are supposed to keep it a secret...)

Gigi wrote:Can't wait to get my FIX in July!!!

Yep, me too. That pretty much says it all, Gigi!
Smiles-
MJ

"Hello. My name is Phyl, and I am an addict"

"Hi, Phyl!"

(and welcome back!)

BTW - looks like we'll be on island at the same time!

phyl-
Yes, lots of changes, some that might just bug you. I don't think it'll take you too long to fall back in love with STJ.
It might involve a little "culture shock", but I'm sure you'll love it.
Hope to hear about it!
Smiles-
MJ

Welcome to my world. I am about to ditch a 2 week trip to Europe in exchange for 2 weeks on Jost and STJ. And I was on STJ three times last year!!

STJ is good for the soul!

Gromit, After reading your post about ditching Europe for STJ, it inspired me to write. I am so jealous of you guys who can get there so often. There was a time that we considered buying property on STJ (before the prices skyrocketed; I could kick myself for not doing it). I even wanted to move there at one point but having 2 kids in high school and my husband saying I was crazy talked me out of it. Im bet the changes will stick out to us, but as with any area, things grow and change and sometimes change is good. When I look at pictures so much is the same and we like to be off the beaten track, so I bet we will be fine... I dont think I'll have to fall in love all over again. Its still my #1 place Ive ever been to. And yes, my name is Phyl and I AM ADDICTED TO STJ!!

Hi phyl!
Smiles-
MJ

Phyl - new members to STJ Addicts Anonymous are assigned sponsors to help them with their addiction. I would like to offer my services as your sponsor. You are required to take your sponsor along with you on all trips to STJ. I look forward to helping you enjoy your addiction. I'll look for my plane ticket in the mail. Thanks!

Well, didnt you say we are going to be there at the same time (Ohio State)??? So, you dont need that plane ticket. hahahaha Hey, my boys are both at Penn State....when you are there in June and see 2 young men (age 20) that look ALOT alike (twins) probably wearing a Penn State shirt, just mention Ohio State and let the bantering begin! Thats always some good fun to be had!!!

My husband and I are very fortunate but we've also structured our lives and finances to allow for a lot of flexibility.

However, even under these circumstances we are more thoughtful about how we spend our money in this economy and to try to be more careful with how we spend it.

That being said, I think that STJ on a budget is very doable. I know people who spend more money going to the Outer Banks, NC than we do on a Caribbean vacation.

It also seems like every time we go we need less and less. I no longer need fancy dinners when Skinny Legs or Island Blues will do.

And then of course I know what our expenses will be (after so many trips costs are predictable and it's those costs that usually add up on vacay).

To me there are all kinds of addictions in this world and it just so happens that this one is not THAT costly and doesn't do me any physical damage (except for the ole liver of course!!)

Gromit, Im all for hearing your tips on how you stay on a budget down there. I was reading the other day at what some spend down there and I was thinking that we arent doing too bad in the budget dept. I agree that I have seen people spend more on "local" vacations than we have spent in STJ. So, I would love to hear some advise.