Also,

I was also wondering if the listers on VBRO, usually have a deposit policy? Or extra charges-other than the weekly prices-such as a cleanup service or room taxes? Im sure it probably depends on the lister, but I just wanted to know if anyone else had used the site-and if they had encountered any troubles or "extra" charges that arent mentioned in the ads on the site.

Sorry for all the questions.. :$) we just want to make our visit memorable and enjoyable, and to make sure we know all the ins & outs before we get there!!

I can't speak for any other owners. I include everything in my rental fee. I do charge a $300 refundable damage deposit. As for deposit, I ask for 50% up front to secure the dates and the other 50% two weeks prior to arrival. Hope this helps.

Ditto to Sappire, we also rent on VRBO and expect a refundable deposit, 50% due at booking and 50% prior to arrival. No other hidden fees. I would also like to include that it is customary to tip the housekeepers here in the caribbean if you are not staying in a major chain.

Please rember that each rental is through the homeowner or their agency and can very differently. I don't believe that an agency like VRBO would put up with fraudulent rentals, they are world wide and have an excellent reputation, that's why on the other side as a landlord I put my utmost trust in them.

I hope this helps,

Molly

Thanks for the info guys, I figured that VRBO was a reputable site, just wanted to make sure before commiting to something 🙂
Do you recommend any certain resort/side of the island or beach that would be the best? As I said before we would like something fairly close to town... any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! We are planning to head down there from April 5 to April 11-if that would help anyone with suggestions to places....

Thanks Again!!

~Chilly in Michigan-ready for a great escape!

One of my favorite beaches is Sapphire Beach. It is not close to town but if you want a great beach you won't be very close to town. Keep in mind that the island is small though so nothing is every too far away. A bit closer to town is SeaCliff and Watergate. They are located on Bolongo Beach which is also nice. Resort has two restaurants, water sports and there is another restaurant (Mim's) at Watergate. Sapphire has the Grapevine Grille and a burger stand down on the beach.

Sapphire, for us is the most convenient. Very close to Red Hook (takes minutes), close to restaurants, grocery stores and the ferry to St John.

It really doesn't matter that you aren't close to Charlotte Amalie unless you REALLY like to shop or would want to do some history.

Get a car and you can drive anywhere on the Island.

The beach at Sapphire is very well kept (clean), there's some nice shade from the trees and very good snorkeling.

Good luck!

Hi, there,

Just returned from island sunday , was very disappointed in Sapphire Beach, no bar on the beach anymore, only place to eat is very limited to snacks on the beach. The beach itself is beautiful and I visit each year I am on the Island, I was very disappointed this year.
I stay at Bluebeard's Castle right downtown (have Timeshare) the castle isn't in that great of shape either but still has three rest., and bars and a small store for staples and trinkets, walking to town is easy, getting back is difficult as it is all up hill, the views are incredible of the island from the castle you see the cruise ships downtown town Mountain top, as for a beach we don't have one but a very nice pool, and shuttles to Megans Bay, in my opinion the best beach on the island. Good luck and enjoy your trip to the island
Hope my opinion about Sapphire was helpful, if your going just for the beach and sun then its a fine place......a car for at least part or all of your stay is recommended, even tough you are close to the Red Hook area for food and shopping its a difficult walk.
debbie

There are two snack bars, two places to buy drinks, Grapevine & Senior Pizza deliver, a free shuttle to Agave or Funghi's for lunch or dinner. No one will die of thirst or starve at Sapphire. Besides, if you're staying there, why not just bring refreshments from the room and save some $$? I beg to differ on the best beach issue. Megans is indeed lovely, but there is no snorkeling to speak of there. If you want white sand, great views and great snorkeling Sapphire is the place.

Hello. I have used V RBO 4 times and have never been disappointed. Two times in Ocean City, MD and twice in St. Thomas. Each owner has diffferent policies, but I also get very quick responses when I email them. Last year we stayed at www.villaenchantment.com and this year we will be at www.villaamour.com. Hope this helps!