Will be going to St. Thomas in August with husband and 16 and 20 yr old daughters. Reasonable rates at both the Ritz and Frenchman's Reef, though Ritz still more expensive. Our other option, Morningstar, is closed in August) Which is a better choice for quality of beach and access to restaurants and shops off property? Probably will get a rental car.

Without a doubt..THE RITZ. Much better service in general.. and the grounds are beautiful well kept and clean. Infinity pool, breathtaking. Close to St John Redhook Ferry, Duffy's love shack and a GREAT GREAT italian resturant across from Duffy's. Shopping is great in town. I am 29 and my husband and I have been to many places in the caribbean and are favorite is still St thomas and St. John. Don't miss Trunk Bay in St john. I have never ever seen water or a beach like it. Have a wonderful time!

thanks so much for your speedy and definitive reply!

Here's another vote for the Ritz.<BR><BR>Morningstar vs. Ritz would be a closer call, but Frenchman's Reef doesn't match up (although it's closer to shopping).<BR><BR>We loved having a car on St. Thomas and it only took about 5 minutes to adjust to driving on the left. You can motor to Magens Bay, Coki Beach, Charlotte Amalie, and the ferry dock at Red Hook (quite close to the Ritz). SOME rental firms will let you take the car to St. John, which is worth it if permitted.<BR><BR><BR>

Here's a third vote for the Ritz. I have stayed at both places and withou a doubt, the Ritz wins hands down in my books. Excellent services, beautiful well appointed rooms, food not bad but as the first poster said, there good restuarants close by. My favourite which is above Charlotte Amalie is Room with a View, its a wonderful place with great Italian food. The ferry for st John's is just around the corner from the hotel and you must do at least a day trip to St John's. Have a wonderful time!

As a travel agent, who's been to both the Ritz and the marriots properties. I would skip both of those and go back to the Renaissance Grand. The location is great, close to Red Hook and all of the ferries going to St. Johns. Great for kids with plenty of daily activities going on. I agree with the Italian rest. across from Duffy's Love Shack, but I would rather go back to A Gave. It is located high on a bluff overlooking the bay. It is on Point Pleasant's property. What an amazing restaurant. Of all of my Caribbean experiences, St. Thomas and the Renaissance has my vote for one of the best vacations I have takes.