Vista Caribe

[stjchica]

I have pretty much decided on Vista Caribe for our family vacay in summer 2014 to celebrate my husband and I's 25th wedding anniversary. (Have wanted to take the kids to STJ so thought this would be a great time to enjoy STJ and also celebrate our anniversary with our family).
I have a few questions about this villa if you have stayed there..
1. Is the pool usually warm enough to swim in...and
2. Do they seem to keep the greenery trimmed so the ocean view is not obscured? I would think so, but wanted to check.
3. Also, where is the grill outside, I don't see it in the pics...but know there is one.

Please list any pros/cons or anything you think we should know in making a final decision.
I keep coming back to this one, so I know it must be the one for us..Thanks so much!!

[stjchica]

Just heard back from the villa mgmt. I guess they only take booking within a year, so I will sit and wait patiently until late May to book..
Is that typical? Not taking bookings outside of a year?

[Knolmom]

Don't know about the year thing but we toured the villa last week and booked it for July. The foliage is beautiful. It did not interfere with the view standing or sitting but don't know about from down in the pool. There is one area to the right where nothing interferes with the view. That would be i from the deep water, as I recall. Don't recall seeing where the grill was. Must be on the front porch by the round table.
The villa is really upscale and had fine features and furnishings. Funny, there was a choice for s between Colibri and Vista Caribe and I chose Colibri because it hangs over the water. View is as if you were on a cruise ship balcony at all times. dH loved Vista Caribe as it reminded him if the Peter Bay House where we were married. Since it's hs treat..he won. Will let you know in a few short months.

[stjchica]

Wow I just checked out Colibri. The views are amazing!! We need 4 BR at this time though...unless my mom ends up not going.
Please let me know how you like Vista Caribe..I think it will be a great choice. Although I think you would be happy with either one. Have a great trip!!
Oh...is VC in a gated area? Did it feel like a secure area, etc??

[Knolmom]

VC is in Virgin Grand EstTes. The gates are open all day but you need a code for entry at night. Most of the burglaries on island occur during the day. We have stayed in both Virgin Grand Estates and also next door to Colibri. Both areas are relatively safe.

[jimg20]

That makes sense. If I was a self-employed burgler, I would want to work the day shift.

JIM

[Knolmom]

Also a more serious crime .Few people challenge folks in the neighborhoods during the day as they may be employed in the " community". Few excuses late at night.