STARSHINE8

Hi,
I have been doing extensive research on the Marriott Morningstar in St Thomas. It seems that the Reef portion of the hotel has gotten horrible, recent reviews! I am using my Marriott reward points and have been upgraded to Beach Front for 5 nights in November. I am hesitant to stay there if it as bad as I have read (On Trip Advisor). Can anyone share their experience with the property? Specifically the Morningstar accomodations? Thank you!

Dianebridles

I have stayed at Frenchman's Reef/Morningstar about ten times in about that many years. My most recent stay was this past November at Morningstar. My room at FR was a loft suite which was excellent. The loft bedroom contained an oversized spa tub, separe shower , lovely vanity and a comfy king bed. Downstairs was a living room and another bathroom. It was great early morning fun to see the majestic ocean liners round the cliff so closely, you could wave to the passengers, take their pictures as they took yours. Frenchman's Reef offers incredible views, is beautiful but noisier than Morningstar.

I prefer Morningstar. It has lovely gardens,and sits directly on the beach. With separate, 3 floor only buildings, it gives a much more islandy feel. The rooms are nice and have been recently renovated. This past visit, the service was excellent, ut that was not the case several visits ago.

Morningstar - I have stayed in both beachfront and gardenview. I prefer gardenview because it is more quiet and gives greater privacy. However, many other reviewers have really enjoyed their beachfront rooms. If you have never had beachfront, I would say go for it.

Dining at Havana Blue is outstanding! Breakfast at Trader Joe's, on the beach and lunch at Sunset Grille was mediocre at best

Another option for your points is the Ritz. I have stayed there once. While the rooms are lovely they are a good walk away to the beach, and the location is a far and expensive taxi ride to most other attactions.

That being said, my preference is Morningstar where I plan to stay again on my next trip. My stays there are usually short term. Beind an avid snorkeler, I move to another location for that, because it is not very good there. However, I believe you can and will enjoy your stay there. Many day trips, including snorkeling is offered there and there are water toys available on the beach. The water taxi ride to/from Charlotte Amalie is inexpensive and a great trip passing the gigantic cruise ships docked at port. In addition to shjopping, shopping and more shopping, I recommend lunch or dinner at Herve's -wonderful food with a spectacular view.

Have fun
Diane

STARSHINE8

Thank you so much for your reply. I will take up your dining and excursion suggestions. I will also post a Trip Report when I return. Best regards, Starshine8

Carrybean

I used to be assistant manager then managed Morning Star before it was a Marriott. I can't imagine why there are bad reviews for the Reef now. I have had no connection with the hotel in years but truly, it's wonderful sitting on your deck watching those huge ships coming & going. The rooms are nice, you're on the beach, you're not at work. What's not to love?

STARSHINE8

I read that the hotel is in need of a major renovation. I agree though, if I am on the beach and not working, what else does one need? thanks for your reply.

Dianebridles

This past November, rooms at
Morningstar had been renovated and the hotel was lovely. The on the beach pool had also been renovated and was beautiful Guests at both hotels may use the facilities of each. Frenchman Reef's pool has a swim up bar which is fun.Enjoy

STARSHINE8

Thanks so much! I feel so relieved! I have read some scathing reviews and I knew this would be the place to get the scoop.