Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
air-conditioned buses run from Christiansted to Frederiksted. Bus service elsewhere
is highly erratic; it's mostly used by locals going to and from work.
TIPS ON ACCOMMODATIONS
Resorts and hotels in the Virgin Islands offer package deals galore, and though they
have many disadvantages, the deals are always cheaper than rack rates. It's always
best to consult a reliable travel agent to find out what's available in the way of land-
and-air packages before booking accommodations.
There is no rigid classification of hotel properties on the islands. The word “deluxe”
is often used, or misused, when “first class” might be more appropriate. “First class”
itself isn't always what it's touted to be. For that and other reasons, we've presented
fairly detailed descriptions of the properties so that you'll get an idea of what to expect.
However, even in the deluxe and first-class properties, don't expect top-rate service
and efficiency. Life here moves pretty slowly, and that can have its disadvantages.
The facilities available at hotels in the Virgin Islands vary widely. All the big, first-
class hotels have swimming pools and are usually located on or near a beach. If you
book at less expensive accommodations, you can often pay a small fee to use the
facilities of a larger, more expensive resort.
The good news: During the
off season
(mid-Apr to mid-Dec) hotels slash prices
25% to 50%.
Renting Your Own Villa or Vacation Home
Looking for something a little different? You might decide to rent a villa, condo, apart-
ment, or cottage for your Virgin Islands vacation.
Private apartments and cottages are more no-frills options than villas and condos.
Most can be rented with or without maid service. Cottages usually contain a simple
bedroom with a small kitchen and bathroom. Many open onto a beach, while others
are clustered around a communal swimming pool. If you're planning your trip for the
high season, reservations should be made at least 5 to 6 months in advance. Some-
times local tourist offices will advise you on vacation home rentals, if you write or call
them directly.
Dozens of agencies throughout the United States and Canada offer rentals in the
Virgin Islands.
At Home Abroad,
405 E. 56th St., Ste. 6H, New York, NY 10022
(
&
212/421-9165;
www.athomeabroadinc.com), has a roster of private homes, vil-
las, and condos for rent in St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda; maid
service is included in the price.
Hideaways International,
767 Islington St., Ports-
mouth, NH 03801 (
&
800/843-4433
or 603/430-4433; www.hideaways.com), has
rentals ranging from cottages to villas to entire islands. In most cases, you deal
7
The West Indian Guesthouse
Most Caribbean natives stay in guest-
houses when they travel to the Virgin
Islands. Many of these lodgings are
comfortable, with private bathrooms in
each room, air-conditioning or ceiling
fans, and swimming pools. Don't expect
the luxuries of a first-class resort, but
for the money the guesthouse can't be
beat. The guesthouses we've recom-
mended in this topic are clean and
comfortable.
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