Diana

I would like information regarding the Elysian Beach Resort on St. Thomas. I have so many questions! <BR> <BR>How are the rooms? How is the service? Is it easy to get around to other local sites? Withing walking distance? How do they handle the non-motorized sports equipment that is available to guests - Do you have to reserve or 1st come-1st served? How many sunfish sailboats are available? Is there good snorkeling at hotel beach area? How reliable is the shuttle to downtown or should we rent a car? <BR> <BR>Thank you for any helpful information!

Viviane

Hi Diana, <BR> <BR>Here's what I found on the Elysian beach Resort: <BR>Nestled on a white sand cove at Copet Bay on the island's east end, this picture perfect resort truly offers guests a piece of paradise. This elegant, tranquil resort boasts luxurious accomodations with private balconies and stunning carribean vistas. The resort has 175 A/C rooms and suites (1 and 2 bedrooms with large terraces), 2 restaurants, 3 bars/poolside bar, live nightly entertainment, outdoor free-form pool, exercice room, 2 tennis courts, and watersports. It is rated Superior/First class in my book. Their toll free number is 1.800.753.2554. As to your question about renting a car, I always recommend the car rental, it gives you more freedom, and those jeeps can be soooooo much fun! <BR>Hope this helps !

web

Whoa! <BR> <BR>There are a couple of things you should know before renting a car here! 1. We drive on the LEFT! 2. Our roads are very narrow and wind up and down the mountains at crazy angles. Now, personally, I think that's an adventure, but some folk rent cars they are afraid to use. <BR> <BR>Second, the Elysian is nice for a middle income type budget. Not to fancy, not run down. It has a very reasonable reputation here. The resort is quiet and "out of the way." You will NOT be walking anywhere unless you are a marathoner! It's next to the Ritz down a winding road that dead ends into a "locals" beach area back in the trees. <BR> <BR>I can't help you with the rooms or amenities though. I live here, so don't stay in the hotels much <BR> <BR>I doubt the snorkeling is too great from there, but catch a cab (or take the adventure route and rent a car) and go over to Coral World on Coki Beach. After you have been through the Underwater Observatory, stash your gear and go for a GREAT snorkel on the beach. (Do NOT leave valuables unattended here!) Be sure to catch the ferry from Red Hook (near you) over to St. John. There is an underwater snorkel trail at Trunk Bay that you will enjoy very much. <BR> <BR>Above all, enjoy our wonderful island! <BR>

Diana

Thanks for the info. Are there any great restaurants that you can recommend? I have seen reviews for Cousins, Agave Terrace, and Romano's. Also, we will only stay part of the time at the Elysian, is there another place you would recommend for 3 nights? Maybe on St. John or another neighboring island? <BR> <BR>Thanks again for the help!

web

Hi Diana! <BR> <BR>What kind of a place are you looking for both to stay in and eat in? What are your interests? Budget constraints? <BR> <BR>All three of the restaurantes you mention are good. Cuzzins is on Back Street, downtown, wonderful food with local flair. Agave is one of the best on the island...steak seafood kinds of things. Romano's is romantic, small, very personal. The only one missing is Cafe Wahoo, Red Hook. <BR> <BR>If you are looking for upscale on St. Thomas, the Marriott is my top choice. That place is really amazing! In the off season, prices are VERY competitive, but you have to ask, they won't volunteer discounts. If you are looking on St. John, I recommend the Westin. Last year's renovations made it rank right up there with Caneel, except not stuffy. <BR> <BR>Let me know what I can help with! Welcome to my beautiful home!