USVI-On-Line

I've been reading this forum for years, but have never been a big poster. I seat on my back deck here in Charleston, SC knowing that next Saturday this time I'll be on a plane to the place we all love so much. I have gotten alot of pleasure from the forum and valuable info to take with me, weather its Vicki's real time trip report, Rick's expert advice, to all the trip reports that are posted. I find that while each trip report is different in their own way, they are amazingly similar. Those who have been there a lot can put themselves in each report and for that moment get a St John fix.

I've read many times here those asking the question why we are so drawn back to St John. I certainly don't have the answer. My wife and I first went to St John some 25 yrs ago on a day excursion from a cruise which came into St Thomas. It was 15 yrs later before we could return, but haven't stopped since. We knew that day 25 yrs ago that we would be back, not hoped, but knew! Each year we take someone with us who has never been and you know immediately if "they get it". It's always a great feeling seeing someone have that experience.

We're taking a friend of my son's back this year (along with some newbies as well), who went 2 years ago (he was 18 yrs old). We stayed up in Catherineberg and he would sit for hours and just stare out at that wonder view. We're going to be there 2 wks this year, and when asked if he could leave work, he replied "I'd quit my job to be able to go back". So next Saturday my family and I take off for 6 days on a catamaran and 8 days on St John. Thanks to all for the enjoyment on the forum and I'll try to do my part in the future.

wow good for you. wishing you a fantastic trip and more posts

Henry,

Right behind you! You live in our most VERY favorite city in the US!! We're "drawn" to Charleston and visit at least once each year. I'm hoping we love St. John as much as everyone tells me we will.

Hi Henry!

Here's to a great trip and looking forward to your TR.

Yup, you're right the newbies either "get it" or they don't; You can definitely tell.

We've introduced two couples to STJ - the first one did NOT get it - they felt the island was a bit too primitive (I think they used the term 'rustic'). I think they were expecting DisneyLand or something - they say that they prefer Hawaii - All I can say about that is "Hrrrrummmmmppff - to each his own!"
The first thing they saw after stepping off the ferry dock was a local STJ 'character' pleasuring himself in the park. I guess this did not make a good first impression.

Couple number two- on the other hand, are just about as obsessed as the rest of us and have been searching, searching, searching for decent airfare for our fall trip and are big time lurkers on the forum.

We keep trying to get family to join us. I would love to introduce the grandchildren to snorkeling - hopefully one day on a trip soon come.

hi Henry, welcome!!! enjoy every second and hope to see a trip report.