Please Register / Login to take part in discussions about the Virgin Islands.
I am getting married 10/10/09, and we are considering the Westin on St John for our honeymoon. I called the other resort on the island and was told that they are closed for the whole month of October, which made me wonder what else might be closed during that time.
I know it's hurricane season in October, so I'm wondering approximately what percentage of the businesses would be closed and if it would affect our being able to do things while we're there (tours, nightlife, shopping). Also, I've read you can take a ferry over to St Thomas, so how is that island during the off-season? Any help is appreciated!! We don't want to get there and have nothing to do!
Thanks.
Yes, Caneel is closing this year for that month. As slow season approaches, Ruth at St John Spice compiles and posts a list of seasonal restaurant closings on St John. Basically the closings on STJ are more than those on STT but there is always plenty to do. Some charter boat operators take their boats out or away for hurricane season but, there again, there are plenty who remain and conduct business as usual. STT is only a 10 minute ferry ride away from STJ and I don't think that in any way you'll be stuck with nothing to do. Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials and you'll have a wonderful time here!
PS: It's a good idea to take out trip insurance when coming here during hurricane season. We've not seen a major hurricane since 1995 but better safe than sorry.
I agree with STT Resident that trip insurance is not a bad idea
However we were married on 7 October many moon ago, and with our birthdays on the 1st and the 5th, we have spent that week in the Caribbean many times. We have not been run off in 30 years.
We always find it a great time to be on island. Yes things may be a little slower, but no reservations required, beaches are empty, and the folks just seem to be their friendliest. Many of the locals/belongers take September off and return home to the states or wherever. They return in October knowing why they moved there and wanting to get the paydays rolling again. Folks on island are always friendly, but October they are optimistic and happy, and in April they tend to be glad that season is coming to an end and dragging a little. Kinda like a school teacher.
I would not sweat Caneel being closed and the Westin has lovely grounds and a lot to offer, but I just checked to see what 7 days would cost at the Westin. For the money, I would look into a small villa as an option. Here is a Villa Example I think for a honeymoon this option would be a great start to your new life.
I would also conside Gallows Point Resort as well as Estate Lindholm in addition to a villa (of which there are over 600 available on STJ) just rent a car and enjoy all STJ has to offer 🙂
Many congratulations
Pia
My Husband and I visited last October. We were worried about the same thing, but we had a great time. There were a few restaurants that were not open, but we had no problem finding plenty of wonderful options. We rented a villa, which I believe was a good choice. It was more "quiet" in October but that just meant we had Honeymoon beach to ourselves!
