Hi - Have been going to STT / STJ since 1986 - stayed at resorts first couple of times but have been renting villas since the 90's. In the USVI, we wouldn't go any other way, On STJ, would highly recommend Denise Wright at www.onlinevacations.com. She is on-island and has the contacts to make your planning and stay very easy. Regarding car rental, we rent from one of the majors at the STT airport (usually Budget) and take the car ferry over to STJ. We find it much easier to just load and unload the luggage once. Generally we stop at Pueblo and K-Mart on the way to the Red Hook ferry to pick up food and liquor/beer/soda. We pack a soft-sided collapsible cooler in the front pocket of a suitcase so we can get to it quickly to keep perishables cool. Never had a problem with the car ferry, although going to or fro during "rush hour" can be interesting. My husband never has a problem backing on. I once went with a group of girlfriends, tho, and figured we might have a problem getting the small unfamiliar 4X4 close enough to the rail so asked one of the ferry attendants to back it on for us - absolutely no problem. The attendant seemed surprised at the tip so it occured to me that this happens often. You can sit in your car with the a/c running and wait out the fast crossing (under 20 minutes) or you can go up to the observation deck to sit and enjoy the view. Once you get to STJ you just pull off and are on your way. Denise (or her designee) will meet you at the ferry and lead you to your villa. They are on cell so you can keep in touch to tell her what car you are driving or should you be delayed. Cingular, AT&T service (and other carriers) work down there without roaming charges - check your carrier before you go. The ferries run every 30 minutes, as far as I know. If you miss one you just queue up for the next - they load and go quickly (unless they are waiting for the mail truck on STJ - lol). No matter where you stay - the USVI is beautiful - enjoy your trip - we are leaving May 1 and can't wait!

- Margy