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For those who were so helpful a few months back i thought I'd update you on our decision. We have FINALLY settled on Orchid Villa above Klein Bay. It has the beds we need, the view and pool we want and the price works for us. It's our first experience with a villa rental and so far our experience with Caribbean Villas has been great. They have been friendly and helpful and more than willing to answer my never ending questions. The pool is a little smaller than we would have liked, and there is no hot tub, but proximity to Cruz Bay, lack of construction in the area, 3 bathrooms and a killer view will have to do!
Now one more question for the experts..at least for now. Caribbean Villas can reserve a car for us, or we can rent on our own. Right now the price seems comparable for a 4WD that seats 5. Any recommendations? Seems much easier to just rent through them, but they have no parking in Cruz Bay. Would that be a dealbreaker Christmas week? I know, I know, if it's not one decision it's another!
Thanks to eveyone (especially Bluwater and Papabou) who helped us navigate this decision making process.
Congratuatulations on your decision.
We really like the convenience of be able to use the agency's parking lot when we're in Cruz Bay. I understand that Christmas week is quite busy. I'd put the extra effort into renting a vehicle yourself and getting one from a company with a lot. We've been very satisfied with both St John Car Rental and with Penn's. Both close to the ferry dock, both with lots. Since it's Christmas week, don't delay in making your reservation.
lwbe,
Hooray! I thought I may have lost track of you since I hadn't seen any decision come out - glad to know you're still on track for Christmas in "de islands" and congratulations on your plans for your first villa experience!!! Wow, Christmas is just around the corner (who said that?!!). I looked at your villa online and see that this one is aside form those previously considered - and I LIKE IT!! That's a great find - bookmarked.
If prices are comparable, I would definitely rent through the car rental agent directly if that is what it will take to secure reserved space in the Cruz Bay rental car lot. Convenience will go a long way on your vacation!
You're a lucky one to be going down for Christmas!!! Enjoy.
oh you're going to live orchid villa !! as for the car rental , i have always gotten my cars through caribbean villa when i rent villas from them but i travel in the fall and late spring, so parking is not as difficult. you are going during a busy season and parking will be a challenge for sure !! so.... i'd make a reservation with a company where you can park....even if the price is a bit higher it'll be worth it not having the hassle of driving around looking for a spot /no stress !!! don't hesitate...everything books fast for christmas !!!
Just to clarify-----the rental companies in Cruz Bay do not guarantee that there will be space for you to park in their lot. Their policy is generally that you are welcome to use the lot if there is space.
Might suggest to the villa rental company that they begin to work with a car rental company that does have a lot in Cruz Bay.
Fantastic news!! I hadn't seen you around any of the boards lately and was afraid that it had all fallen through for you. I am so happy for you and your family that you get to spend Christmas on the Islands!! Yippee!! I wish you a safe and happy trip, maybe we'll bump into one another during our hikings, etc. Christmas in the Caribbean - woo-hoo!!!!
Again, thanks for the advice. i will call St. John's Car Rental and Penn's today and see what's available. Any preference for one over the other amongst the experienced out there? I definitely think convenience will be an issue during the holidays. Now on to the more practical issues...FOOD! Should I be making reservations now for that week or is that just too neurotic? Are things (restaurants) open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day? I'm not much for cooking dinner on vacation. I must say I'm thrilled to see the news about the new vegetarian restaurant opening as my eldest is a vegetarian and gets quite sick of pasta everywhere.
BTW, Blu, your trip report was amazing and your family is gorgeous. I felt like I was there as I read your detailed reports on everything from the sensory assaults (!) to the food. I can't wait to go....
Rody,
Have you stayed at Orchid Villa? When? Is there anything I should know about it that the rental agent hasn't told me? DId you ever walk down to Klein Bay? Thanks for the info.
