USVI-On-Line

We are headed back to the island in July for my 40th birthday. My wife and I visited a couple of years ago and fell in love with everything about St. John. We can't wait to return and this time we are bringing our two daughters (14 &12) with us.

We are looking at the Secret Seashell villa in Coral Bay but can't seem to find many traveler reviews. It looks great, it's within our budget and we love the area that it's in. We stayed in A House of Open Arms last time and loved it (and would highly recommend it for couples), but it can't accomodate all four of us. The lack of reviews concerns me and I was just wondering if anyone may have any insights on the villa. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Wow, what a gorgeous villa! I would totally stay there if it were in my price range.

I think the reason for the scarcity of reviews is because it is fairly new on the market. It's managed by Windspree, which is a perfectly respectable villa management company as far as I know. If you have concerns about how well they do their job you could post a query for feedback about Windspree specifically. They manage a lot of properties, so you will probably get a lot of answers.

I don't see any red flags. The online listing is very thorough, including a detailed map of the location and an excellent video that really shows you what the place looks like. I like the fact that they are upfront about the rockiness of the nearby beach (my pet peeve is places that trumpet "WALK TO BEACH" without saying what kind of beach it really is). In fact, I don't think I've ever seen a better villa listing. I always have a lot of questions about villas I find online and this listing answers them all. It's a big step up from "Open Arms," but the price point seems about right for the level of luxury. If you can afford it, I say go for it!

we're last minute travelers and sec seashell was at top of our list for last april, but she rented a few days before we could commit. folks at windspree were very cordial and professional in phone dealings and have read some good reviews about them. while we were on island staying at our second choice (summerwind rented through another company) we stopped by and visited windspree folks (across street from skinny legs).

very nice and they arranged for us to see Memory Daze while owner was in residence. all that to say this: if 2 bedrooms with queens will do the job for you MD is fantastic and deserves a look! she has wonderful view over coral bay, easy drive less than 2 minutes from island blues and basicly all one level. three pods that provide privacy and convenience. kids could have minisuite. windsprees website also has great photos and video and the real thing is better. cheaper than secret seashell and worth a look if bedding works.

happy hunting,

papabou

Thanks for the input - we booked Secret Seashell and mailed the deposit yesterday! 139 days until we're back to our favorite spot in the world...