We live in Florida, have never been to the Caribbean and are considering a 3 night trip to St John over Thanksgiving. From all the brochures, it seems like our dream place, but I would like here from someone who has actually been there. We can't afford to stay at Caneel Bay Resort and forget camping! Has anyone stayed at the Virgin Grand Villas? Where is the best place to stay? Should we rent a jeep, should we stay on St Thomas and commute to St John to save $$? Any other info would be appreciated. Thanks!

About 4 yrs ago my wife and I stayed at a place in Cruz Bay called Raintree Inn. It wasn't luxurious, just a basic clean hotel room. We paid about $75 or so per night. We did this because we spent ALL of our time exploring this wonderful island via jeep. If you wan't Caneel Bay luxury you'll be disappointed. If your simply looking for basic room, check it out...

About five years ago, my wife and I stayed in a condominium immediately uphill from the Gallows Point development overlooking beautiful Cruz Bay. I think the cost was $80-100 a night which, of course, included a full kitchen that can add to your savings. I would stay in St. John instead of going back and forth, especially considering the short time you have available. We found renting and using a jeep to explore was convenient and there are a number of places to get them in Cruz Bay.

Two years ago three friends and I rented a house on St John for the week of Thanksgiving. PERFECT! We all had a wonderful time, on the beach, in the water, diving, shopping and restaurants. Our one trip over to StThomas was a never again visit.Yuck. Full of cruise ship passengers and hustlers. Give me St John everytime. There are the two places mentioned in the earlier postings which are fine. There are also short term condo rentals available. I did find we needed air conditioning even then.
Rent a jeep. You won't make it around without one.

Don't discount "camping" on St.John at either Maho Bay or Cinnamon Bay.Last July we spent several weeks on St.Thomas which was absolutely great and spent two nights at Cinnamon Bay on St.John.There are small bungalows on the beach and tent sites between the palm trees.The National Park gives you sheets and pillows and the "tents" are actually small canvas huts on a platform with cots and matresses. They come with picnic tables, stove, light etc.The place is spotless and has all the conveniences in the ultimate eco-tourism setting. You're right on the beach in the middle of what my family considers the most beautiful National Park under the American flag. I highly recommend the bungalows at $65 a night or the "tents" at $45. Doublecheck the rates. They could be higher when you go... Enjoy!

replying to comments on renting a villa in st. john.
this is what my fiancee and i want to do for our honeymoon, but the company (carribean resort and villas?) requires us to pay 50%25 beofre they send us any kind of confirmation of reservation or contract. we are a little nervous about doing this. should we be?

The week before Thanksgiving my girlfriend and I stayed at a private villa located above cinnamon bay. The place was wonderful! I highly recommend renting a 4wd vehicle on the island, as some of the roads get pretty hairy. If anyone has the money to spend, rent the villa cinnamon tarn.