Just back from Four Seasons Nevis--trip report/ask any questions
 

Just returned from a week on Nevis at the Four Seasons...it was everything we expected and more!!! <BR>THE RESORT: Immaculate and beautiful. Casual elegance best describes the overall feel. In summer at least (low season) we felt very relaxed and comfortable everywhere we went.<BR>THE ROOM: We stayed on the first floor of a cottage away from the main building in a regular oceanfront room. We loved our view and were able to walk 50-100 yards right out to the beach. Rooms on the second floor are all screened in. Rooms closer to the main building look out over the pool and other activities, as opposed to directly to the beach. The decor of the room was top notch, with all marble bathrooms (separate tub and shower, large double sink area), marble tile floors, king size mahogany bed and armoire, sitting area with loveseat &amp; coffee table, another with two chairs and marbel round table.<BR>THE SERVICE: We are not veterans of any other Four Seasons properties, so can't comment on if the service was the usual quality for the 4S. However, it was spectacular and made the vacation most memorable. If you enjoy great service you will love it!! The resort employees are so very friendly, yet non-intrusive. We really didn't feel lkie we were being waited on every minute, but that if we needed anything it would be provided. If you are more of a do it yourself person, this may not be for you. <BR>THE FOOD: We live in a major metropolitan area and frequently go out to dinner at fairly nice restaurants. We thought the food here compared to, if not exceeded, most of the places we eat at home. The Grill Room is more casual and offers breakfast in the morning and grilled selections for dinner. The Dining Room is a bit more formal (no ties or jackets, just long slacks for men) and was fine dining at its best. The food at the Cabana (pool bar)and from room service was equally enjoyable. We did have the MAP plan as part of the Romance package and easily made up for the $85 per day. If you are a light eater, however, you may not make up the difference.<BR>THE ACTIVITIES: When you arrive you are given an Island Daybreak, which tells about all activities that will be happening the week you are there, both on and off the resort property. If you like to be active you will not be dissapointed. We were in a more relaxed mode and took advantage of golf, water sports, island tour, spa services, sailing/snorkeling trip. There were so many more activities which we did not do. Each night they had either a steel drum or regular band playing for several hours. Other than that, there really isn't much nightlife at the resort. Several local places closeby had some livelier entertainment.<BR>ETC: We are a couple, both in our early thirties, who don't have kids. We went in search of a beautiful atmosphere and great service. We found it!! This was our best, most relaxing vacation yet. The Four Seasons does have a family/kids program and there were a lot of kids at the resort. For the most part, however, they were well-behaved and had lots of things to do other than get in our way. The family atmosphere did not detract from our enjoyment in the least. Sorry this trip report got a little long. Please feel free to ask any questions and I will try to answer them as best I can. Enjoy!!

Thanks for the great report. I had read that awful article in The WSJ and was curious how a "real" guest would find the hotel. It sounds like you might have had concerns too, especially at the pool. It has been my own personal expoerience that kids are usuallly well behaved at these high end hotels.Glad you had a relaxing time!

Just curious about the beach. Know you haven't been before to compare to what it was but it was not wonderful! What is it like now? Did they "rebuild" it bigger?

KT, great report...wondering about snorkeling at the resort...was there good snorkeling right from the beach there, or did you have to go out on the snorkel trip?

Karen--As you pointed out, I don't know what the beach was like previously. However, I can tell what it is like now. It is on Pinney's beach, which is a 3-4 mile beautiful stretch. It is probably about 20-30 yards wide, gently slopes down to the water, and is greyish moderately-packed sand (due to the volcanic history of the island). Like you said, it is not wonderful. It's not a place to go for the beautiful beach. However, the ocean views are still gorgeous. When we were there it was not crowed at all and we only saw 3-4 local people selling their goods (but not in an intrusive way).<BR>Joan--I did see people snorkeling right off the beach and it is very easy and convenient, however, I don't know that there was much to see there. We did a lot of other things, so our one snorkeling day was on the

Hi! - My husband and I are thinking about going to the FOur Seasons in Nevis early November or so. What kind of package did you do - how much and what did it include? We stayed at the Four Season on the Big Island for our honeymoon last year and everything was terrific! <BR> <BR>thanks for your review! <BR> <BR>thanks

Terrific report! Thanks a lot. Do you remember what building # you were in ? <BR>Or do you have any suggestions in regards to what area to request for if staying in an ocean front room? We like to be a close to the water as possible. Thank you!!

Jackie--We opted to get the Romance in Paradise package for our week's stay. Overall, I think it was a great value!! It included: <BR>1) breakfast and dinner daily (you can order as much of anything as you want from the menu--two appetizers and two entrees if you choose--no limits!) <BR>2) unlimited golf (usually $125), tennis (usually $15/hr), and watersports <BR>3) a 50 minute full massage for each <BR>4) a three hour sail/snorkel trip <BR>5) champagne and chocolates <BR>6) transfers, tax, and 10% service charge <BR>Since it was low season it was pretty reasonable for what you get and for Four Seasons service and atmosphere. It was only $200 more than romm rate + MAP + 18%. Your best bet would be to check out the web site for info for November. <BR>Karen--All of the buildings are 50-100 yards from the beach. However, some of the buildings closer to the great house don't have as good a view as where we were. We were in Pinney's Cottage (#9). Other good buildings would be Paradise Cottage, Morning Star, or Saddle Hill. Building numbers 1-3 are by the golf course and not oriented directly at the ocean, numbers 4-5 have a view over the pool and then to the ocean, 6 is not bad but a little close to the great house, and 7-10 have a view right to the ocean. Let me know if you have more questions. Enjoy!!

Thanks for the great report. I have a couple of questions if you dont mind. <BR> <BR>1. This may be an odd one but.... I <BR> heard that there are washers & <BR> dryers in the rooms. Is this true? <BR> <BR>2. Is it possible to get shade while <BR> on the beach? via trees or <BR> umbrellas? <BR> <BR>3. If you did it again would you still <BR> have a lower level room or would <BR> you choose upstairs so that you <BR> could leave your doors open with <BR> the screens? <BR> <BR>4. Did you eat off property at all? <BR> <BR>5. Sounds like the beach though not <BR> the most beautiful... would be great <BR> for long walks. would you agree? <BR> <BR>Thanks for advance for any help you might provide. My wife and I are considering a visit next spring. <BR> <BR>

David--Hope this info is helpful: <BR>1) We had a regular oceanfront room. We did not have washer/dryer in our room. There is a nice and very clean laundry room located in each building. Maybe some of the suites or larger rooms have their own W/D--not sure. <BR>2) You can most definitely get shade while on the beach. The beach set-up is the best I've seen. The chairs are in groups of two with a table and umbrella between. They are moveable if you want to turn towards or away from the sun or if you need more than two together. Also on the beach there are the wooden platforms with soft mats and shade visors (I don't know if you would call tham cabanas or something else.) <BR>3) I would get a lower level room again. I like being able to walk right out from the room to the beach. Also, I enjoyed sitting on the patio and looking out to the beach and ocean with no screens to get in the way--I think you feel more a part of the natural beauty. The sliding glass doors did have a screen, so we left the door open most of the time when we were in the room. However, if you like to sleep with the doors open you may want an upper level room. <BR>4) The only time we ate off property was for lunch. We headed over to Sunshine's for fresh fish, shrimp, and lobster and for the Killer Bees. It was all marvelous! Since we had already paid for dinner in our package and the food was so incredibly good, we just decided to stay at the resort. There looked to be some interesting local restaurants and I know some people who were at the Four Seasons had several dinners at some of the plantation inns on the island. <BR>5) The beach was one of the best for long walks--it was not crowded when we were there (low season), the sand is soft, and the views are beautiful. <BR>I hope you and your wife have a lovely time!!

Thank you !!!!

We are going to Nevis Four Seasons end of the month. I requested a 2nd floor room, but perhaps I should request the ground floor. Can you please advise your thoughts on which would be best? I'm really particular and at those prices would like to get the best room! <BR>Thanks for your input. Laurel

For all of you considering the Four Seasons resort in Nevis, one word- GO! <BR>As you may know, Nevis is a small island (30 miles in circumference) in the British West Indies. The resort is situated at the base of Mount Nevis, an inactive volcano, about 150 yards from the water. Accomodations, service and food is simply outstanding. Once you stay at a Four Seasons property you won't want to stay anywhere else again. <BR> <BR>While on the island, speak with the concierge about the rain forest hike, it's outstanding. Also dine at Miss Junes (call ahead for reservations) and at Sunshines on the beach. If you are interested in nightlife and casinos, this is not the place for you. But for relaxation, pampering and a visit to a remote, undeveloped speck of an island - this is it! <BR> <BR>Attention golfers! This is the premier course in the Caribbean. One last note: I recommend a second floor, ocean view room. The views and the screened lanai are the best!

Laurel--As far as which level for the room, it depends on what you are looking for. <BR>1st floor pros: walk right out, no screen (good for view) <BR>1st floor cons: no screen (bad for bugs), can't leave doors open at night <BR>2nd floor pros and cons: opposite of 1st floor <BR>No matter which level you stay on you will have a magnificant vacation!!!

I know this post is a few months old, but can anyone comment on the pool area? Is there a swim up bar? Are the grounds lush?

Har...The pool area is spectacular!!! There are two pools--the Ocean Pool and the Garden Pool. They are both steps away from the beach. In between the two pools is the outdoor restaruant/bar area. It is covered overhead, but totally open otherwise. No swim up bar. Back to the pools though. They are both freeform--kind of funky shaped and have infinity edges!! The Garden Pool has jacuzzi and a ledge all around for sitting and reading, sunbathing, etc. The Ocean Pool is deeper and has a shallow area for kids (not very big). Both are plenty big so that they are not crowded at all (in summer at least). The entire resort, but especially the pool area, is very lush and landscaped with trees and bushes and flowers, etc. One of the best things about the pool is the attendants. When you arrive they set up an oh-so comfy chair for you(with two towels and one for drying off with), they bring around ice water, fruit kabobs, and Evian spritz. HEAVEN!! Please go and have a great time!!

Kat<BR><BR>Thanks a ton for the exciting post!<BR><BR>Can you comment on the rooms? 2nd floor vs 1st.....best location to request?...<BR>How's the beach for walking?...Did you eat off property?....Did you rent a vehicle? Where from? <BR><BR>Alot of question I know but my wife and I are going in April for our anniversary and I want it to be perfect!<BR><BR>Thanks again!

Would also like to hear the answers to Davis' questions!

how are the beaches- i have heard they are short and not that great. is the water clear. is nevis usually windy?

Staying at the FS around Easter. Was wondering if anyone could comment on car rental vs using a driver. We're pretty active and would like to see a fair amount and visit other restaurants and properties. We're used to driving on some of Jamaica's worst roads. Is that enough experience? If we do rent a car what will it entail? Drivers lic. and $$$. Also what if we use a driver....what would it cost to get to say...Nisbet and back after dinner? <BR><BR>Thanks a ton to anyone who responds!!

Hi KT,<BR>great report. thank you for this fantastic close up from your point of view.<BR>Shain/EU/de/d&uuml;sseldorf

Davis: More detailed answers to some of your questions are listed in my previous posts, but I'll try to give you a summary.<BR>1.

Sorry, I accidentaly jumped the gun on posting. DAVIS: the 2nd floor is great if you want to sleep with the doors open, or if you want a more panoramic view. The first floor rooms are great because you can walk right out to the beach or other activities. The best location to be away from the great house is buildings 7-10. The beach is long and very good for walking. We ate off property only for lunch at Sunshine's (right next door). There were many people at the FS who took taxis/cars to other resorts and restaurants for dinner. We did not rent a car, but did an island tour one day through FS. HEIDI: The beach in front of FS is long-4 miles. It could be considered not great--it is more golden-greyish in color and medium softness. The water is not clear--it is definitely blue, but not clear blue. There was a fair amount of wind during the middle of the day, most days when we were there (June). KAREN: As I said above, we didn't have a car and were content to stay at the FS most of the time. I've never been to Jamaica to know what those roads are like, but I wouldn't hesitate to get a car and drive around Nevis--especially with your Jamaica experience.

KT...Thanks a ton for your time and for sharing your experience. We're really looking forward to our visit.

Sounds great - thanks for info!<BR><BR>What kind of rates would we expect in late April?

$575 per night for an ocean front room.<BR>Slightly less for a "mountian view" room. + about 18% tax. Not cheep no matter how much you justify it. But then again......nothing is if you want the best.

The oceanfront rooms are definitely worth the extra money--don't bother with the mountain view rooms.

We stayed here two in November 2001 and had a great experience (except for the fly's) Loved Barbados even better, Fairmont Royal Pavilion. Any suggestions other places in the Caribbean that are in the same "category"? Thanks for any input.<BR>Laurel

Does the pool area at Nevis 4S have cabanas to get some shade while lounging (like their properties in Hawaii)? Are there at least umbrellas? Or is it just chairs?<BR><BR>How is the gym facility? (we're workout fanatics) Are there gym classes such as yoga, spinning--is there a lap pool at the gym?<BR><BR>An above poster mentioned flies--is there an insect problem? Mosquitoes (my wife's allergic)?<BR><BR>And I'd love to hear a comparison of this property to that of the 4S in Hualalai, Hawaii. Anyone been to both? We are from Calif, and have gone to hawaii Hualalai most years b/c it's closer than the caribbean--we absolutely love Hualalai and want to know if Nevis compares in quality, service and facilities (I've only read one review that felt Nevis was no comparison to Hualalai and don't want to trek out to Nevis if this is the case!)<BR>Thanks in advance--trying to plan an anniversary trip.

The pool areas at Nevis do not have cabanas. They do, however, have an umbrella between every two chairs at the pool. The beach has a section with cabanas and a section with umbrellas. Honestly, we did not make use of the gym facilities while at Nevis. There is definitely not a lap pool. Don't know about classes. When we were there in June there really no insects to speak of--didn't see any mosquitos. I guess it may depend on the season. Haven't been to Hawaii property, so I can't compare the two. Good luck!

Hi KT- Did you take the launch from St. Kitts to Nevis? what was that like?<BR>

TTT

Lorraine: We did take the Four Seasons launch from St. Kitts. They have several different sizes of boats. Each one is a bit different and takes a different amount of time. The one we took was a fairly smooth ride and took about 45 minutes. You can sit inside or outside, have a rum punch, and watch the beautiful scenery go by. It really is a pleasant experience and a great way to start your vacation. Have fun!!

THIS IS FOR ERROL. WE JUST RETURNED FROM 4S IN NEVIS. WE HAVE BENN THERE 4 TIMES AND 4S IN MAUI TWICE AND HUALALA 3 TIMES. HUALALA HAS THE BEST SPA, NEVIS IS SECOND AND MAUI A DISTANT THIRD. WE LOVE THE GOLF COURSE IN NEVIS BEST,FOR THE PLAYING AND THE THE VIEWS. WE ALWAYS HAD WIND IN HUALALA. THE FOOD IS EXCELLENT AT ALL THREE. THE STARS AND STRIPES BEACH PARTY IN HUALALA IS AWESOME. MAUI HAD TOO MANY KIDS RUNNING AROUND WITH ABSENTEE PARENTS. NEVIS IS THE MOST RELAXING PLACE WE HAVE EVER BEEN. IN HUALALA OR NEVIS GET A TOP FLOOR. NEVIS YOU CAN LEAVE THE A/C OFF OPEN THE DOORS ON THE SCREENED IN BALCONY AND LET THE WATER LULL YOU TO SLEEP. THE TENNIS COURTS ARE NICER IN NEVIS AND THE PRO MORE HELPFUL. WE HAVE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH TO TRAVEL FOR OUR JOBS. THE PEOPLE OF NEVIS ARE ABSOLUTELY THE NICEST PEOPLE WE HAVE MET. I LIKE 4S VACATIONS, IF THERE IS A PROBLEM IT IS FIXED. IF YOU WANT AN AWESOME VACATION TRY THE 4S TROON LODGE IN ARIZONA. IT IS BOOKED FAR IN ADVANCE BUT WORTH THE WAIT. I LOVED HAVING A FIREPLACE IN THE DESERT AT NIGHT AND YOUR OWN PRIVATE POOL. ANOTHER GREAT 4S IS AT MANDALAY BAY IN LAS VEGAS. YOU CAN USE ALL THE POOLS AT MANDALAY BUT ALSO FOR QUIET THEY HAVE THEIR OWN PRIVATE POOL. YOU LEAVE THE NOISE OF THE MANDALAY AND ENTER THE 4S QUIET. WE HAVE BEEN TO NEVIS BEFORE AND AFTER THE HURRICANE, THEY IMPROVED THE WONDERFUL HOTEL.I DID NOT LIKE THE ROCKY BEACH AT HUALALA, NEVIS BEACH HAS BEEN ENLARGED AND IS ALL SAND. THE BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE SUNSET IS WITH A DRINK AT THE END OF THE BOAT DOCK. ALSO THE LAUNCH RIDE OVER FROM ST, KITTS IS SO RELAXING. IT IS NOT ROUGH WATER AND YOUR JUST WATCH THE BLUE WATER GO BY. GET THE MEAL PLAN BUT AT LEAST ONCE GO TO SUNSHINE PAT THE 4S ON THE BEACH FOR LUNCH, IF YOU LIKE FISH AND LOBSTER IT HAS JUST BEEN CAUGHT AND STEAMED. THE ONLY BETTER PLACE FOR LOBSTER IS A ROAD SIDE STAND IN MASS.! HAVE A GOOD TIME AT EITHER PLACE

great reviews. we are going to nevis- however to a villa. which beaches would you say are the best? should we eat at the fs? brunch or what? where? also, are the beaches topless?

Message: great reviews. we are going to nevis- however to a villa. which beaches would you say are the best? should we eat at the fs? brunch or what? where? also, are the beaches topless?

Hi KT:<BR><BR>You have been so helpful with lots of information! my fiance and I are going to 4S Nevis for our honeymoon and wondering if better to do package or nightly rate. Are there a lot of places around Nevis to go out for dinner and drinks, or is it best to just stay and hang out at 4S? We are so excited- it sounds like Heaven on earth!!! Thank you in advance for advice!

KJ;<BR><BR>I highly rec. that you DO NOT do a food plan. Not that you might save a little money by doing so. However there are at least 4 -5 very good options that are within 15-30 min of the property that ave very much worth the trouble of getting there. FS is a great resort and you'll love it. Still you must leave the property. Make sure you visit "Bananas" for dinner at Sunset.<BR>Also Nisbit for their BBQ and Monpellier and Hermitage are great for lunch and dinner as well. Good luck!

KJ....below please find my trip report from Nevis and FS. For whatever reason I cannot seem to post it...try as I might several times.<BR><BR>FOUR SEASONS RESORT - NEVIS<BR>Four Seasons is wonderfully run and the people could not have been nicer or more helpful. The two pools are beautiful and the beach though not the nicest we ever seen, was very nice and great for the long walks we like. The grounds are absolutely gorgeous and well maintained. We were in the Pinney building which was about a 5 min walk to the main great house. Our room was an end unit which allowed for a little bit of uniqueness to the floor plan. Regular rooms were the normal bath on the left, closet on the right. End units also provide for a window on the opposite wall of the glass door. This gave us the opportunity to get some extra lighting and cross ventilation when we kept the AC off. Really, there are no bad rooms, just some may be a bit better. If you prefer to be closer to the action, you might prefer to in buildings 2 – 6. 1, 8, 9 and 10 are quieter but more remote. We did not opt for a meal plan and I’m very glad we did not. Though we may have save a little $$, we really enjoyed having the options we did to eat off the property. Meals were very expensive as were drinks. Our weakest meals were those we had at Four Seasons. None were bad, but none were exceptional for the $$ either. Would we go back to FS? Sure it was lovely and they have the hospitality business down to a science. For example. …….. I requested a CD player for our room. I swear that the young man that brought it must have been hiding in the closet with it. He was there with the CD player in no more than 2 min with it and had it plugged in and music playing before I could even find my wallet to give him a tip. The Four Seasons is very expensive but worth the money if you can afford it. Be advised however that there are many equally as nice but very different small plantation inns that would great choices as well. These properties badly need the business due to 911 and will bend over backwards to please. The Four Seasons is probably the best choice for families, but the inns may be best for low-keyed R & R.<BR><BR>Questions? Ask away…….I’ll do my best!<BR><BR><BR>

KJ--Sorry it's taken me a while to get to your question. I haven't been on the forum for several weeks. I think that the decision to do package or nightly is totally based upon what you plan on doing on your honeymoon. If you really like to go out and explore, there are definitely a good number of places to eat, as Paul points out. Most places are at least 15-30 minutes each way by taxi. So add half an hour to an hour to your evening plans if you go out. However, if you stay and eat at 4S you can walk up from you room, have an excellent meal, and then take a leisurely stroll back to your room on the beach, have a cocktail in the library bar, or listen to music--all very convenient. Really think about what you think you'll want to do, because we found the package plan to be a great savings. I believe the yummy breakfast buffet was $22 per person. At dinner you could have whatever you wanted--as I mentioned in an earlier posting--several appetizers, a steak with a lobster tail...anything...it was all included...no limits (except for alcohol). So, it's really up to you!!! There are no other places within walking distance except for Sunshine's to have drinks after dinner, etc. Whatever you decide to do you will have a great time...it IS heaven on earth. Post a trip report when you return. HAVE FUN!!