jkeys,

Welcome to the wonderful ilsand that is also my second home. In case you haven't noticed from my user name, I am a native of Iowa and still currently reside. I can definately relate for the "ready to escape" as posted on your message.

With that said, I'd be a little weary of the Emerald Beach Resort for a total destination. Although I have not stayed there personally and cannot give a review, I think that you should be aware that it is located next to the airport and thus part of the airport "strip". More of a starting and stopping point for most travelers.

Staying at this hotel you would be several miles away from any shopping or dining so you would need to hire a cab to shop or dine, with the exception being the other neighboring hotels for food and trinkets.

I hate to be the bearer of more bad news, but as of yet, their is only slot machine gaming on the island.

We are a great bunch of travelers and homeowners and would like to help if you have any additional questions.

Molly

I would second Molly's opinion of Emerald Beach Resort. We stayed there at the end of our vacation (due to timing of airlines and such), it's a great place for a night but I can't imagine spending my entire vacation there. It's literally right at the end of the landing/takeoff strip for the airport. There is a nice outdoor bar and inside restaurant and the beach is very clean but it wouldn't be my first choice for a vacation.

STT is in the shape of a kidney. The Best Western is located by the airport sorta on the west side of the kidney. The beach is good, but not great. The hotel is OK, I guess. There are a few restarants there. Most of the action is in town on the east end. Town is about three miles away. Not really walkable, but you can.

I would look at VRBO or hotels like Sapphire, Belongo, or Secret Harbor and the Wyndam. Just so that you make the best decision. Remember that inital price may not be the best price.

billd

I concur with the majority - nothing "wrong" with it but with so many options available it's just not somewhere I would recommend unless as a place to stay for a couple of days for a quick lay-over.

One thing I would mention and reference your question about its distance to restaurants, shops, etc. there are very few places you can stay here with foot access to those. In order to get the full benefit from your vacation it's recommended that visitors rent a car as there is SO much to do and see and that's part of the fun of being here, exploring different beaches and restaurants and sights. Taxis charge per person, those fares accumulate very fast and public transportation is unreliable.

Take a look for condo rentals on the East End through www.vrbo.com if you haven't already done so and you may just find something quite perfect in your price range that will be quite a step above Emerald Beach. Cheers and have a wonderful visit wherever you decide to stay!

We stayed there for a couple of nights after a month at a time share. We also stayed there last year when we were leaving the islands. Yes, during the day the flights leaving the island make a bit of a roar.

They also do a lot of buffet dining. If you want a simple breakfast, you are locked into a $14.95 feast. There are may be options, but I'm not aware of any. The bar was nice and very busy.

I do like the beach there. We grabbed chairs at the far end near the rocks. There were a lot of folks snorkeling. It was almost like swimming in a lake.

Without a rental car, you will need to use a taxi. Unless you stay right in Charlotte Amalie, you will need a taxi to get to town from just about anywhere else on the island. It's very easy to find a cab, but the cost can add up pretty fast.

Investigate the other sites mentioned. You may find more of what you desire for a resort stay.