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Hi, Just booked a trip to STT in Sept (7th-11th) and was wondering...
-Is that a good time of year to go weather-wise? I'm worried about rain and hurricanes!
-Staying at Frenchmans Reef (got a special deal)...any feedback/things we should know about that hotel?
-We're just going for 4 nights, my husband and I, so I was wondering is it worth it for us to rent a car for such a short while and for 2 people?
-I kind of envisioned myself hanging out by the pool and resort beach for the whole time but now reading all these posts I feel like there is so much to do! What would be your top 5 things to do for a young married couple?
-We dont dive but snorkeling would be fun. Can someone recommend a good snorkeling day trip and company (with website info)...maybe out to St John? There are so many advertised on this site how does one choose!
-Lastly what is your opinion on the St Thomas Day tours? One of the companies has an option of a 1.5 hour tour and 3 hours at a beach of your choice and then back to the hotel for $25. Sounds like a good deal to me. Which is the best beach in STT?
Thanks so much!
First of all, congratulations on your decision to join the rest of us in our Virgin Islands obsession!
Here are some of my thoughts:
September is Hurricane season, though the chances of an actual hurricane are very slim. However, there are more tropical depressions that time of the year and you could have some additional overcast skies, rain, and choppy water. September - November are the rainiest months, but rest assured there is still plenty of sunshine to go around even during those months. My wife and I have traveled in September/October on cruises and have never had an issue (though we did just miss a hurricane on last cruise by 1 week in Cozumel).
We've stayed at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef a couple of times. There are lots of reviews on this property within this forum. Do a search and you'll get much information (though you didn't say Marriott, so maybe I'm mis-interpreting your hotel).
My wife and I did not rent a car the first time we came to the island (also a 4 night stay). It's really a personal choice. First time, we didn't want any stress over learning to drive on the left, or getting directions, and honestly didn't want to limit our number of drinks with/after dinner or at the beach so we took taxis everywhere. Since then, we've been back 3 times and do rent a car each time. We're familiar with the island now so the rental is best for us. You really can't go wrong either way. If you want to spend longer periods of time at the beach or resort, I'd say take taxi. If you like the freedom of changing plans often then get a rental car. Taxi fares can add up in a hurry with multiple trips. Figure $30 per couple round trip each time you do something with the taxi. The rest is up to your own personal taste.
Things to do on a 4 night trip....... Go to St. John for at least one day (I'd go 2 of your days). You really should go to Trunk Bay - I know it's the "tourist" beach of STJ, but hey it's world famous. How can you NOT go there? I'd also recommend going to Cinnamon for the other day to enjoy the beach and some excellent snorkeling out around the Cay. Bring extra clothes and use the showers to rinse off the salt and sand. Stay on STJ for happy hour and dinner (I recommend Woody's or Morgan's Mango for both). The passenger ferry runs into the evening so you can spend the whole day on STJ. On STT, again I recommend the #1 tourist spot: Magans Bay. Walk down the left side (when looking at the ocean) past all the people and you'll find a quiet spot. Just don't go past where the beach servers are working so they can take care of you! For a casual dinner, we like Margarita Monday's at the Greenhouse on STT.
You are right - there are so many great daysail operators that choosing is tough. We took the Winifred for our only daysail. Loved our day - relaxing sail, great snorkeling, a light lunch, and fun all around. You really will have no trouble selecting a great one - they most all are terrific.
Our first time on STT was a cruise stop and we did the open safari taxi island tour. Really liked it because they give you some history of the island and allow you to enjoy the views without having to worry about driving/directions/timing etc. You probably don't have to get a tour - I think many cab drivers will give you the tour for less than the $25 "tour fee". Just have them take you to the beach as your last stop - enjoy it for awhile then take another cab back to your hotel. Nothing wrong with the tour - it's an "all in one" option. Just know there are alternatives.
Have fun!
Thanks so much for taking the time and giving me all this great information! I really appreciate the help!
VI Lover, how much did you pay for the sailing trip? I'm assuming they mostly charge around the same rates...correct?
Thanks!
I'm not positive, but I think it was around $110 per person. That could be wrong. I really don't remember. Yeah - I'm thinking they all charge around the same rate since they are really pretty similar tours.
