No one knows our St John villa, Great Expectations, better than the folks who have actually stayed there - our previous guests. Here are some exerpts from our guest book; truly, these are our guests own words (we have hyperlinked some words to help you navigate our website):
"Great Expectations met all of mine!..." -Danell, Rob & Natalie G. (Delaware)
"...fabulous home with every amenity...thoughtful property layout & careful attention to detail...unsurpassed privacy... the breathtaking views & exquisite breezes...Our 5th trip to St. John has been our best ever...We are already looking forward to coming back same time next year!" -Steve & Beth D. (New York)
"...I couldn't believe how well stocked the home was - even down to the beach towels & laundry detergent. I've never seen such a well-stocked kitchen at any of the homes we've rented...how often do you see games, puzzles & books for your use?" - Linda K.
"We have been coming to St. John for 10 years...Great Expectations is undoubtedly our favorite villa that we have stayed in. The location, seeing the sun rise and set - have been exceptional. My special place is the Hart Bay side - breezes, the way the sun hits [the water]. The Great Room is wonderful. Kristin and Chuck have thought of everything...Beautiful! We enjoyed! We will be back!"- Maureen C. (Easton, Connecticut)
"We've been coming to St. John for 16 years and have never been in lovelier surroundings" - Tom & Julie S., Steve & Tammy, Charlie & Carolyn, 3 little Charlies & teeny Steve (Illinois)
"Thanks so much for a luxurious, pampered, relaxing vacation! We loved the feel of your Villa - it was so beautiful and thoughtfully appointed...especially loved the colored pool lights! We are so thrilled to be coming back next year!" - Sue, Roger, Pete & Ted G. (Yarmouth, Maine)
"...beautiful breeze on the front porch...relaxing...clean & exclusively equipped. Really charming...appreciate it after we saw some other villas to compare..." - Adam & Vera (Miami, Florida & Nurenberg, Germany)
"...enjoyed the privacy of our separate bedrooms with patio. We cook a lot so the wonderful cookware & serving dishes was a plus...the pool, the showers, the location, Hart Bay, Chocolate Hole...We plan to return." - Lydia C. (Washington, D.C.)
"As my teenage daughters would say [Great Expectations is] 'totally awesome'."- Ross, Leslie, Bryn (19) and Jamie (16) E. (Dayton, Maryland)
"Beautiful home with lots of amenities. The view is spectacular! Loved the hot tub & pool...The beds were almost as comfortable as our water bed & the breezes wonderful!...The decorations were very tasteful. The fish & masks [wall decorations] really neat!...This house certainly was named well!"-Sherry, Mike, Ian, Lisa, Jennifer, Christopher, Nancy & Rich (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania & Baltimore, Maryland)
"Great Expectations will hear from us again. We are already planning our next trip. Why? This place has everything you would want for a relaxing vacation: great accommodations, close to town & the beaches" - The Gang from San Diego, California & Frankfort, Kentucky
"I was mesmerized by the spectacular views...to be able to watch the sun rise AND set was wonderful!" - Pat M. (Shaftsbury, Vermont and New York)
"This house has everything one would want and the views, the birds and the plant life were all spectacular" - Linda H. (Providence, Rhode Island)
"...through the eyes of a 14 year old this place is incredible... The hot tub was great on cooler nights. I also loved your tennis court...goodbye Great Expectations till next year." - Kristyn B. (Pittsburgh, PA)
"Our choice for villas is Great Expectations. Book early or we may get your dates...You can't beat the views and breezes." - Gary & Mona H., Lonnie & Nancy B.(New Orleans, Louisiana)
"Our 2nd trip to Great Expectations...we will be back in 2000 for our 3rd trip to Great Expectations!" -Beth & Steve D. (New York)
"Another great week at Great Expectations...best...on the island...we look forward to our next (third) trip to Great Expectations." -Linnea & Roger A. -Bob & Karen C.-George & M.J. K. -Charles & Judy G. (Atlanta, Georgia)
"...the most beautiful experience that we ever had..."-Alex & Pia. B. (Turin, Italy) -Nico, Annarella & Ennica B. (London, England) -Giulio, Mischi, Alessandro, & Erica (Detroit, Michigan)
"...a fabulous house with fantastic views...Great Expectations has been perfect!...recommend this house to others and we hope to come back." -Catlin & Peter G. (New York)
"...the most beautiful setting we have ever experienced...These last two years [staying at Great Expectations] have provided our family memories for our whole life...we hope to be here (a third time)..." -Charlie, Theresa, Andrew & Eliz G. (Portland, Maine)
"Our first time at this St John Villa...will be here again. We love the beaches, the sunrises, sunsets & the quiet surroundings...the set-up of the rooms, with cross breezes was ideal...Kristin & Chuck are great hosts -- we knew they were available but we had absolute privacy. It's a fabulous vacation home & met every need." -Dan, Linda, Katie, MaryJo & Alex. C. and Jim, Carol, Ali & Darcie K. (Westfield, Massachusetts)
"The villa is fantastic...breezes in both directions and both sunrise & sunset views -- really incredible...2-yr old loved "her" wading pool & it meant Mom & Dad didn't always have to be in [the pool] with her. -Leigh and Jeff S., Lonnie (2), Will (8 months) (Cohasset, Massachusetts)
"This was our second year here!...What a wonderful spot we hate to leave but hope to return next year" -Dana & Peter., Carolyn W., Margot & Ted M., and all 5 kids: Andrew, Whitney, Will, Alix & Spencer (Cape Cod, Massachusetts)
"Great Expectations surpassed our expectations!...to find binoculars when you left yours at home; to find a lemon zester the week after you learned to use one; to wake up at night because of the moonshine and in the AM because of the sunshine; to see the mysterious islets...shrouded in early morning mist...and to finish up a perfect day glancing at more stars than you have ever seen!!...We will be back because one week is not enough!! -John & Louanna McD, Martha & Patrick, Max (age 6), NY, NY
"...the name of the villa seems apropos...the architect and the builder did inspired work, taking full advantage of the tradewinds and double-view...we simply migrated with the shade --starting in the pool, moving inside at mid-day, and spending afternoons looking over Hart Bay, waiting for the sky to fill with stars.."-Bill R. & Lisa W. (honeymooners), Muskegon, MI
"Isn't Great Expectations really cool?"-Ten Little Indians (5 couples)
"Great Expectations will be seeing us again. It truly met all our expectations and more."-The S. Family, Metamora, IL
"The kids all had a blast...no one wants to leave...can't wait to come back...what a perfect name --GREAT expectations!"-Chris & Sue R., Robin C. -- NYC; Chris, Amie & Charlie R., Buffalo, NY
Review from USVI-On-Line.com St. John Hotel, Resort, & Villa ReviewsGreat Expectations 08/04/01 Reviewers Rating: Excellent From our Trip Report for Sept. 2000: I could write a book about how wonderful Great Expectations was. Suffice to say, it met ALL of our expectations, and surpassed them! We had four equal airconditioned bedrooms and bathrooms, complete with outdoor showers (what a treat!). The villa is located on the crest of a hill, overlooking both Chocolate Hole and Hart Bay. This gave us both Sunrise and Sunset views. (sigh. I wanna go back...) It also allowed a constant breeze to blow through the villa. The doubles tennis court was very underutilized by us, but the Hermit crabs seemed to appreciate it. The kitchen had up-to-date appliances, and Caphalon cookware. Please note, however, there were no spices of any kind in the cupboard - not even salt! We all agreed that if they could have fit in our luggage, the world's most comfortable lawn chairs would have disappeared when we left. Having a pool and Jacuzzi was just adding icing to the cake!"
"The J. Family -- 15 of us -- 67 yrs to 7 weeks-- we had everything we needed to keep us happy --all the baby equipment-- just right-- we thank you for a wonderful family vacation." -Olivet, MD
"14 of us from Circleville, Ohio (3 families) friends & neighbors. Had a great time...we've been to St. John several times...the house is awesome!" -Scott, Kathy, Jordna & Mark S.; Larry, Kim, Scott & Mark S.; Tim, Vicki, TJ, Cassidy & Steve W.
"This house is really nice!"-Laura C. (age 9)
"Kitchen and outdoor gas grill are great. House has been perfect; love the dueling views." -Inger, Peter, Steve, Mary, Leslie, Atlanta & Houston
"I love swimming in the pool...the fiber optic [pool perimeter] lights are really cool...the view is gorgeous" (granddaughter of the L. Family)...
"the senior members' 50th anniversary celebration...7 of us...from the Oregon coast...Philadelphia...Pennsylvania mountains. It's been a great vacation..."
"We are a group of 4 couples...from California, New York and Texas...My hope is that those who follow find the peace and beauty that is but a glance out over Hart and Chocolate Bays. May your stay be as wonderful as ours." -Bruce T., Houston, TX
"We loved sitting outside at night by the pool and talking with breezes blowing and the stars shining. We loved the hot tub after a day at the beach. We loved the gorgeous views on both sides. We loved the peacefulness...We loved being surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants, seeing hummingbirds...many, many thanks for providing us with such lovely digs in which to have our family Thanksgiving. We've done this [on] St. Martin, Puerta Vallarta and now St. John and this was the best...You guys were so wonderful and helpful. Thanks so much for your genuine hospitality and warmth. It made the week markedly better than it already was. Your home is beautiful and peaceful and we all had a blast. (especially Jaime, the little one)"-Lynne B., Wendy S. and family, Massachusetts, New York, and Oregon
"This is our 6th (or maybe 7th) visit; we have been coming to St. John for 13 years. We have stayed at Tennis Villa and Villa St. John. Great Expectations is the nicest place we have ever stayed!" -The W. Family, East Hampton and Roslyn, NY (January 2001)
"For Beth and me Great Expectations is synonymous with serenity, natural beauty and the opportunity to renew and recharge. Our "expectations" were realized once again...look forward to returning once again [for their fourth stay]." -Steve & Beth D., NYC
"Had great expectations coming to St. John. Our first trip to this beautiful place. Thanks for building a piece of "heaven"..." -The D. family, Westwood, MA
"This is our seventh winter vacation on St. John [last year at Villa St. John] -- and it was the best. Our group [8 adults] can be very critical but all of our 'great expectations' were more than fulfilled. The views are soothing, the facilities terrific, the tennis furious...[already booked for TWO more years!]." -The W's, Long Island, NY
"We have been coming to St. John for 15 years [up to now at Donald Schnell's Beach House]. This is our first visit to Great Expectations and it truly lived up to our expectations. The views are spectacular, the setting serene...we just love the house & look forward to future visits."-Sharon & Ed C., NYC with their children and grandchildren ("pretty house, nice pool, nice chicken in town, great basketball." Conner C., Age 3)
"They say that the third time is a charm but we have always thought that this was the most charming spot for our annual gathering. Thanks for yet another [3 years in a row] great visit!" -Bob & Karen C., Charlie & Sandy G., Roger & Linnea A., George & M.J. K., Atlanta, GA
"Down for grandmother's 90th birthday. What a great time and house!"-Peter B., CT; Jane & John B., NYC; Fiona & John B., Denver; Shelby B., VT; and Grandmother English R., Atlanta
"What a Villa; this place is paradise. My daughter's wedding [at the Westin] was beautiful...did a wonderful job." -E.J. & Mike M., CT
"We're not rich or famous, but it sure felt like it! The villa is so beautiful and the views are spectacular! We will be back next year." -The Rest of the Wedding Party
"Thank you for sharing a little piece of paradise...that I could restore my soul with my 3- 1/2 year old and 15 month yr old along says it all." -Sonya & Alain, NY
"A wonderful place for lots of people to have their own space. Beautiful sunrise/sunsets. The best place we have ever stayed on St. John." - Ed & Shirley O., et. al., Chapel Hill, NC
"An Oblation to Great Expectations A family of 12 on vacation Spanning 72 years in generation. We snorkeled and swum, The adults quaffed rum.It exceeded all our expectations!"- The K. & S. families, CT and MA (Ed & Mary Ellen; Ed Jr. & Ann w/Elsa, Louisa, & Babette; Bill & Roberta w/Tom, Will, & Mary) P.S. The prettiest spot on the island to have dinner is at Great Expectations' dining room table. Also, we are very appreciative of the many small details attended to that collectively make this such a superb place, Thanks!"
"We have vacationed on this very special island for almost 25 years...the past 8 years we have rented homes...Our stay at Great Expectations was the best yet...The "double view" is second to none. Remarkable!...The extra touches are reminders of the love Kristin and Chuck have for this wonderful home...It has been a great week of rest, relaxation and fun with our sons, wives, girlfriend and 2 grandsons!!"-Liz & Alan J., Richard J. & Kerri Q., Beth, Bob, Zach (age 3) & Ari (8 months) J., Janette & David J. (NYC,Messoola, Montana and Jerusalem)
"I liked tennis and basketball and jumping in the pool and stars and lizards."-Zech J., 3 years old"
"Great Expectations would make Dickens proud." -The T. Family (grandparents, parents & kids), Reading, Massachusetts"Our third year at Great Expectations...wonderful."-The W. Family (grandparent, parents & kids), Harwichport, Massachusetts.
"We are an experienced vacation group...arrived at this villa with high hopes...were not disappointed! Great Expectations is a true wonder with its amazing views of Hart Bay...its fantastic pool & Jacuzzi. We fully enjoyed all the amenities that accompanied this grand villa."-The M. Clan [of 9], New York
"This was our second stay at Great Expectations...we will definitely be back!"-The. D. Party, Philadelphia, PA
"The best part of Great Expectations is that it is so beautiful, accommodating and well equipped that those who stay here need think of little other than the people they are sharing their time with." -Maureen M., Boston, MA
"Great Expectations is a beautiful space...the ideal facility for a party of our size [11 adults] - privacy but also plenty of common space and fun things to do within easy reach. Thanks for such gracious hospitality." -Beth B. & Paul L., Arlington, MA
"Hello. Heaven..."-[phone greeting by] Bob D., one of 8 adults visiting from California
"We had a wonderful time...spent several lazy days just laying around the pool here at this fabulous villa...Can't wait to come back! LOVED IT!" -Louis & Patty B. (Baton Rouge, LA), Ken & Sandy H. (Zachary, LA), Carolyn B. (New Orleans, LA), Tom B. (Richmond VA), Larry & Jan H. (College Station, TX), Greg & Kathy M. (Chicago, IL)
"We had a 1 yr old and a 3 yr old and they really enjoyed it...we hope to return. - The B. family (NJ)
"We are 3 families who vacation somewhere different each summer...what was great: the tennis court, our kids loved the pool...the outdoor showers were really neat..."- Paul & Ginnie, Patrick & Maggie S., Steve & Val, Jason & Monica D., Joe & Lauries, David & Sarah W. (North Carolina and Maryland)
"Three vacationing families for the past ten years...first trip to St. John and Great Expectations; 14 in total - kids ranging from 5 to almost 20. The setup of the house was great...the [chaise lounge] chairs are outrageous (are they sold stateside?)...how wonderful this place really is...a fully-equipped kitchen, multiple card decks, videos, beautiful gardens, sunsets, sunrises & ..."- Phyillis F. et al (Nyack, NY)
"Great Expectations has everything you need for your dream vacation...my favorite view from Great Expectations is at night when the moon is over Hart Bay and light dances on the water." - Jesse & Justine Z. and Tomel & Boyence K. (TWO honeymoon couples from Chicago)
"We came to St. John to celebrate my 50th...Just two of us with the whole place to ourselves. Everything was lovely and Great Expectations is the best equipped villa we've ever rented. Our gracious hosts have anticipated every need...we'll be back - next time with the kids and kids-in-law in tow!"- Michael & Pam D. (Kensington, MD)
"Our 5th time to St. John. Our 2nd villa rental. Great Expectations is truly amazing. The panoramic views are breathtaking. Villa was very well furnished for adults & kids alike. Rooms were well appointed & layout is favorable. The best asset of this place is the location & the views...We will definitely be back"- Jerry & Shannon B. (Kinnelon, NJ)
"We over-nighted on St. Thomas...did our jewelry & grocery shopping...so that by the time we got to Paradise, we could concentrate our energies on 'limin' [West Indian term for enjoying life]...too short a week at this, the most spectacular (I think!) Villa on St. John. Even though the events of September 11 cut down the number in our group, we are so glad we came. A week away from CNN & the attendant stress (two of us work at airports) could not have been better timed. At Great Expectations, from the very first sunset watched from our own Jacuzzi, to the very last sunrise seen from our private balcony - life just cannot get any better than this!"- Fran P. & Bruce T. (Houston, TX) and Linda P. & Steve L. (Los Angeles, CA)
"The tennis court was a big hit [pun?]. Great Expectations has wonderful views for watching the sun rise and set! We brought our families down to St. John for our wedding. There were 16 of us. We were married on Trunk Bay at sunset. Everything was perfect!...We re so glad we picked St. John as the place to start our life together!"- Kristina & Kevin L. (Bloomfield Heights, MI)
"[The] sunrises and sunsets were spectacular. As a mother of a 5 month old, I was up every morning as the sun rose...didn't mind it a bit!" - Nancy B. (and 15 family members from SC, CA, OH and MA)
"We knew we were coming to "Paradise" but we had no idea what a fabulous time we would have on St. John. Our trip was made even better by our stay at Great Expectations. The accommodations were superb and everything we needed and wanted to enhance our experiences was provided. Thank you for making our St. John vacation perfect!"- Jay & Natalie R. (Cincinnati, OH)
"4 of us come very year for this week [mid-Dec before Xmas] and this year we were joined by first-timers [to St. John]. The villa is beautiful and has been very comfortable. It accommodates multiple couples very well. We've enjoyed 'painkillers' in the hot tub nightly. The views are great, the cross breezes make sleeping comfortable."- Art & Judy N. (Plymouth, MN)
"It was our 8th visit to St. John...loved the house...will be back soon!"-Bob & Nancy W. (Shakopee, MA)"Back for the second year...we will be back for a 3rd time [next year]. This place is perfect."- The J. Family of 2 grandparents, 6 adult 'children ', and 3 kids (Manhattan, Montanaand Israel)
"We had a terrific time on our first visit to St. John...Great Expectations certainly lived up to its name...everything we needed was here...Thank you Chuck & Kristin for building such a wonderful vacation home for us and we hope to see you again!" - John & Meredith P. (Marblehead, MA)
"It takes confidence to name one's rental villa "Great Expectations". The expression invites such elevated pre-conceptions - the perfect set-up for disappointment among vacationing families who may now expect just a little too much...the name...placed arrived with what we thought were indeed high expectations...It was great! Everythingwas great! But, apparently not great enough for our hosts. During our stay, the DVD player was added...hammocks were installed, a traditional Caribbean Christmas treewas set-up...as if the place wasn't special enough already. What an experience. What a model for hosting. Thank you for everything!!!":- Fred & Carol G. (Northampton, MA), Dick, Debbie, Sam, Ben & Matthew (Yarmouth, ME), Tricia L. (Northampton, MA)
"I just went on to your web site to write you a little note since I didn't get a chance to write much in your book, and I looked at your pictures. I can't believe that we were swimming in your pool this morning and looking out over Chocolate Hole....when we were driving to Coral Bay on Centerline Road, and we rounded the turn at Bordeaux Mountain, my childhood dreams came alive. That view of Coral Bay is what I always pictured a tropical island to look like. And what's more, I now know why I always had that picture in my mind...it looks like Peter Pan's Never Never Land. Some time when a guest comes to your villa with small children and they bring the Disney Peter Pan video with them, take a look at the first view of Never Never Land as Wendi and her brothers are flying in with Peter. It looks like the Disney illustrators saw a picture of Coral Bay from that mountain pass, and just started drawing. When we rounded the corner, and I saw that first view, I literally lost my breath. After 43 years, I was finally seeing Never Never Land, and it was the tropical paradise that I always knew it would be.Thanks for being my "Peter Pan" and leading me to paradise. You were great hosts, and made are vacation a very special one." -Jeff, and Nancy, Isaac and Olivia [L. (Philadelphia, PA)]
"What a fabulous place! We had a great time at Great Expectations and are especially grateful to Kristin and Chuck for their extremely warm hospitality. We've stayed on St. John the previous 2 years (at other places) and the views from both sides of the Villa, the breezes, plus the proximity of town...are great!"-The R. Family (Concord, MA)
"Sing to an island tune: CHORUS: Island sensations Perfect vacations At Great Expectations ASIDE: just come and see REPEAT CHORUS: Island sensations Perfect vacationsAt Great Expectations just come and see Awake to the east Retire to the west Every view outdoes the nextBlue bay after bay New cay after cay ['cay' is actually pronounced 'key', but give them some literary license]It's heaven at the beach It's full moons within reachIt's Great Expectations Island vacations Perfect sensations\ just come and see CHORUS: Great Expectations Island sensationsPerfect vacations TRAIL OFF: just come and see.." -an original composition by the L. Family of 12 (Philadelphia, NY and Israel)
"Thank you so much for a wonderful week. The house was perfect. It was spacious and open, beautifully furnished, and had 4 almost identical bedrooms. In addition, the clubroom made an ideal separate room for a teenager (with the all-important personalTV with cable and VCR). There were so many intelligent and thoughtful extras that simplified and enhanced our vacation: the large closets, the beach chairs and coolers, all the hooks for wet clothes, the guide books, the fresh flowers everywhere on arrival, the outdoor showers, the beautiful landscaping, the almost immediate replacement of lightbulbs, the exercise equipment, the complete video set of the Sopranos (Sam says thanks), the large airy bathrooms, the tennis court, the pool toys, the wading pool (perfect for adults as well), the breeze (I never turned on my a.c.), and the view." - Ruth, David, Sam and Caroline L. (NYC)
"We know St. John and found you on your website and...arrived filled with great expectations. The house and the island never let us down. The views, breezes, tennis & relaxing layout made this our best stay on St. John. Thank you for your recommendations and hospitality. We simply had a wonderful visit." - Alan, Tessa, Meagen, Nick & Karena (Buffalo, NY)
"What a great house on a great island. There was something for everyone in our party of 9! I must complement you on how well equipped this house is - especially the kitchen (we have many chefs in the family)!..." -The. C. Family (Vero Beach, FL), The L. Family (Yaak, MT), Libby C. (Chicago, IL)
"Great Vacation, Great Island, and Exceptional Expectations. We had a fabulous time!" -Mel H. & Anne F. "We loved every minute of St. John & most especially your place."-Dee & Ed S.
"We are returning...see you next year!"-Mike & Nancy H.
"Perfect hosts! Perfect house! Perfect place!" -Jim & Laura B. - 4 couples from Charlotte, NC
"Sixty-five people [not all stayed here, fortunately] came to St. John to celebrate the marriage of...Welcome dinner at La Tapa...Party at Coconut Coast...Rehearsal dinner at Asolare...Wedding at Catholic Church...Reception at Voyages..Beach party at Trunk....Everything was perfect especially "Great Expectations"...the pool was the center of our activity...the views were awesome. We'll all be back!" -Sherwood & Patty C. (Philadelphia, PA)
"...Last time we were here was 9/2000...Many thanks to my husband who brought me here again! Can’t wait to get back" -H. vB.
"Great Expectations was and is definitely GREAT!!! We re going to miss this place..Thank you Kristin and Chuck for sharing your "little piece of heaven". We absolutely love the place...You have done a phenomenal job accommodating your guests with all the ‘toys’ one could want..we will be back!!"-The K. & B. families (DC, VA & KY)
"What a great eight days just living at Great Expectations...the tennis court. Basketball and the pools...great place to celebrate my 50th...I do hope that we will return again...Thanks for thinking about us when you built this wonderful home." -Haywood and Eleanor S. and family
"I have never seen a house so grand and well stocked. I’m proud to tell everyone and anyone about this place. This house gave us ideas about our construction project...I will be back...Thank you Kristin & Chuck. Your word is your bond; you told me we would have a great time and we did! It was worth every e-mail...Can’t wait to do it again & again & again."-Owen & Pam M. (NYC)
"I was very leery on this trip (I don’t travel much), but this view & house is fabulous! Our rooms are great...nice kitchen & family area." -Sara (age ?)
"I can hardly find the words to say how fantastic Great Expectations is! Beautiful, fabulous, relaxing, spectacular...I am so overjoyed my husband tried so hard to find this wonderful home for our 14 member family...We ll have loved the views, pools, tennis court, basketball courts, views, lizards, crabs, views, shopping, sightseeing, views trips to St. Thomas, snorkeling, scuba diving, views..."-Grandma K.
"Great Expectation is a wonderful name for this villa! Everything you could expect is here!" -Dick, Kathy & Kathlyn S. (Marion, OH)
"After reading all these comments, I can surely say I’m sorry we didn’t get to meet you. You must be outstanding hosts [NB. We are off island during the summer, but I had to include this comment for my mother to read]...Great Expectations is all we expected & more – particularly the views!"-John K.
"I had a great time here! I swam in the pool. My family went to the ocean. I went snorkeling and rode the waves. I went shoping [sic] in the 30 stores. I bought a little stuffed animal dog." -Kaitlyn S. (age ?)
"Being an ex-florist I really appreciated the vase of flowers in each room when we arrived...Thanks to Kristin & Chuck for having the foresight to build such a fantastic home and sharing it with us!" -Grandma Marge
"I have to echo Steve’s sentiments about our week at the villa and the wedding itself. Great Expectations made everything so easy – all of our friends who stayed there with us just loved it. There was never anything we lacked – you and Chuck have really equipped the house well. From the kitchen supplies to books, island info to water toys, we were never in need. And the layout of the property made everyone feel they had privacy, while we still had plenty of room to gather as a group both inside and out. " -Carrie & Steve B., Warren, VT
"This island is beautiful. The people are friendly and laid back. The view from the Villa is unbelievably spectacular. The waters are turquoise; clear and refreshing like the pictures in the magazines that I always would stare at in disbelief...Thank you for helping to make our vacation our Great Expectation."-The 7 Jersey Girl Trip ("two generations of friends: 3 women who’ve been friends for almost 30 years shared their laughs with 4-30 something year olds")
"I liked the house I lived in and I don’t want to leave. I enjoyed snorkeling down at Chocolate Hole harbor. Thank you for all you did. I hope I can come again" -Alex F. [age 12]
"The W. clan came back again for our 3rd year. As always, we had a wonderful time...See you next year!" -Barbara, Alan, Lawrence, Adam, & Naomi W., Jen S., Leah T,, Rolando M."Our third stay for the 3 generation J. family at this wonderful home...one cannot imagine many places that have such a beautiful sunset, moonrise and magnificent sunrise all at the same location!...We’ve looked at LOTS of places to stay and even stayed at 2 others until we found ourselves here. There is no place better. We want a kid friendly and safe house, good views, convenient access and friendly, solid support from the hosts. All here...The pool here is safe too – no steep cliffs with inadequate railings. And the tennis court - ball play area is a unique gem....Its really nice to be in a comfortable home in Paradise. We are all looking forward to being here again and again and again."-Liz and Allan J. (Manhattan), Keri & Richard J. (Manhattan), Beth, Zack (4), Ari (2) and Bob J. (Missoula, Montana), Jenette, Natan (16 months) and David (Jerusalem)
"Our young 'tennis' players warming up by gathering up some tennis balls!"Our 5th [to Great Expectations] visit and it was sweeter than ever" -Bob and Karen C. (Atlanta, GA)
"Once again, we had a little slice of heaven...looking forward to our 6th visit." -Linnea and Roger A. (Atlanta, GA)
"What a great fifth visit...the beauty and great accommodations are unsurpassed!" -Charlie & Sandra D. (Atlanta, GA)
USVI Forum http://www.usvi-on-line.com/usviforum.html Subject: Villa with the Best view?Date: Fri Feb 21, 2003"I am looking to rent a new place this year. I am hoping for something elevated, with a great view (like from bordeaux) Doesn't have to be a big villa, but would like pool/jacuzzi/ac. Any suggestions?"In response: George (Fri Feb 21, 2003)
"Great Expectations.....High up, private, great for 4 couples but 2 is perfect. That makes each couple with a sleeping cottage separated by the common area. Everything is centered around the pool and spa. Tennis and basketball court lower level. Great view with a nice breeze...."
"...Great Expectations...the perfect place...spent weeks researching villas...can’t imagine another that would have been more perfect for the 9 of us in 3 generations...looking forward to our return." -Sandy & DiAn R.; Marc, Dawn & Ben A.; Heidi, Carlos, Austin & Zach S. (Martha’s Vineyard, MA; Seattle, WA)
"WOW! No place on the island compares with the spectacular sunrise/sunset views of this gorgeous villa! All the amenities, the ocean breeze blowing through our rooms in the night and the Demong’s wonderful hospitality have made our trip absolutely fabulous....Watch the sunset from the hot tub hammock and be sure to turn all the lights off to watch the stars at night...This place is a little slice of heaven. Thank you for allowing us to share it." -Alex G., Katie P., Calder G., Julian C., Sean S., Josh L. (MI, NH and MA)
"...This was the best provisioned place we have ever stayed at. The attention to detail was amazing...although we enjoyed trips to the beaches and the East End, the time we spent at the villa was the best: sunrises on the patio surrounded by blooming flowers which the hummingbirds often visited, sunsets by the pool with a frozen drink made in the excellent blender (just one of many top of the line appliances provided)..." -Bob, Carolyn, Kevin and Robin B. and friends Elizabeth and Chris (WI)
"Wow! Great Expectations exceeded ours! Our previous trips to St. John were at Caneel Bay...loved this wonderful house much, much better than Caneel. Totally relaxing, luxurious surroundings, warm welcome...this house is perfect for a family - just the right mix of togetherness and privacy via the spread out bedrooms with their own private patios, hammocks and sensual outdoor showers while stars twinkled overhead. Thank you Kristin & Chuck for sharing your ‘Paradise Found’ at Great Expectations. We hope to see you again as soon as we can!"-Lisa, John, John III, Catlin, Holly, Edward, PopPop R. and Annie W. (Merion, PA)
"Our third trip back to St. John and Great Expectations...we love the new [chair hammock] swings and hammocks - they were wonderful additions! Already counting the days till we canreturn!!" -Carolyn & Eric M. (Pennsburg, PA)
"Your villa is spectacular...The hammocks were well utilized, the pools even more so, and we even played tennis on several occasions, which we never normally do....We meant to be hardy, get up and explore the island travelers, but many days we found it too difficult to leave the pool, outdoor speaker system, and homemade pina coladas. I am m sure you understand. Travis and I stayed in your apartment, and now I yearn to be woken up at 5am by tropical showers, leaping out of bed to slam the doors against the warm, driving rain. I have to say my favorite spot in the whole villa is the porch off your apartment facing Rendezvous Bay . Always a stiff breeze and a guaranteed moment of peace...Thanks for an amazing experience. We ' ll send some pictures along. "-Miranda W. (Charlottesville, VA)
"Cathy and Christie:Thanks so much for everything you did to arrange our wonderful week at Great Expectations! We had a tremendous time in the house, and on St. John -- in fact, my husband and I are working on plans to become independently wealthy so that we can simply retire to our own villa on St. John! (Any ideas?) The house was perfect for our group -- we each had our own space, yet there was very nice common space. The pools were the perfect set up for our kids, given their ages. It was difficult to get them out of the pool whenever we were back at the house.Christie, thanks for all your help upon our arrival -- you made it effortless for us to settle in for the week. If you all have a mailing list, please put me on it -- Kate and Eliza have already made us promise to take them back to St. John -- but only if we can stay at Great Expectations again!" - Terri [ this was e-mailed to our terrific property managers, Christy and Cathy Dove]
"Our 2nd trip to St. John [and first to Great Expectations], but this time with...our 5-1/2 month daughter. The beach cabana in the red bag worked great for her...she loved splashing in the [wading] pool...Great Expectations is a safe, infant-friendly place! We can’t wait to return again!"-Andy, Erin and Makenna M. (Gilbertsville, PA)
"We are returning to St. John & Great Expectations for the 2nd time with additional friends. This is the perfect place for a large group [of 11]...The beach chairs were a great addition...Beverage Center made a huge difference!" -Ken & Susie C. (NJ), Eric C. & Cory M. (NJ), Laura & Jared J. (Minnesota), Javier G. & Zoe W. (LA), Allie B. & Geoff H. (Boston), Alice C. (Dallas)
"...a word on the villa...a perfect retreat for both our families. There will be a wedding tonight on Trunk Bay beach and a reception at the Stone Terrace [Restaurant]...the villa is well-planned out for guests, right down to the pots & pans. You feel right at home the first day; a first-class operation! You get the Tradewinds from the east and sunsets to the west...There are may fine restaurants...but the main star is right here in the evening by the pool...We will take with us many happy memories of St. John and Great Expectations! What a beautiful place!"-Wayne, Debbie, Ryan, Heather & Wayne, Jr. [the groom] K. (Montauk, NY) and John, Marcy, Tracy & Jamie [the bride] A. (Hull, MA)
"Great Expectations...was the best medicine our family had and needed. The stress melted away quickly. Everywhere one looks soothes the eyes and the soul. Thebejeweled water with the sound of the wind and the waves...my nature-loving 10 year old boy never had a dull moment. Our 13 year old energetic boy had all his whims satisfied (tennis, wind surfing...)...We all got closer together!...It was a wonderful stretch of peacefulness."-Lynne, Reto, Simon & Daniel D. (Boca Raton, FL) and Steve & Marilyn P-S (Bainbridge Island, Seattle)
"There couldn’t have been a more wonderful place to spend one week."-Rich & Kim S. (newlyweds)"We had a great week on St. John. Great Expectations has been the perfect base of operations for our 3 families. The pool was perfect for the kids (who range in age from 2 to 9). The breezes are beautiful and the views spectacular!" and "Great Expectations has proven to be the perfect Villa for such a large group. The spacious area enabled us to have privacy yet enjoy one another in such a fun and beautiful setting. We thoroughly enjoyed the pools, the great kitchen, outdoor grill and dining under the stars. The view is spectacular!!...St. John and Great Expectations made for a memorable vacation we will all cherish" -Tom A., Teri M., & Keri & Eliza (Evanston, IL) and John, Alex, Abbie & Allie N. (Boulder, CO) and Kurt, Patti, Jack& Ellie A. (Nederland, CO)
"Great Expectations was a great villa. The views were beautiful!! I would definitely recommend this property....We hope to come back!" -Mindy, Luke, et al H. (Warren , PA)"As the Governor of California once said, ‘I’ll be back!’"-D. Family (Pittsburgh, PA)
"A memorable week for the T. family from North Carolina...Best dinners right here at Great Expectations. A perfect house for a large family.""Great Expectations is the best vacation site we have had. We had everything we needed and then some. Chuck & Kristin were the perfect hosts. If you need something, just ask. Snorkeling was fantastic right down [below the villa] in Chocolate Hole." -Kenny & Elizath K. (Pittsburgh, KS)
"You've heard from Lindsay and Compy since we returned to the real world, but not from me, tho I've meant to write each day to tell you how much every one of us loved being at Great Expectations for our Christmas week. I kept telling you, before we came, how excited we all were at the prospect of being "on island". And now I can tell you in retrospect how thrilled we were with everything we found, discovered, experienced, saw, heard, devoured.........what verbs have I forgotten??? You created a getaway/destination/slice of paradise, and then you added on to it the hospitality and warmth of the two of you, who saw to our every need, and you made our whole experience unbelievable. From reading some of the journal entries I know many of your other guests have felt the same way, so I'm probably not telling you anything you haven't heard before. But it's all true!All that being said, we have decided we absolutely MUST do a repeat visit ! ...So this is an official commitment from me, for the week of ... 2004. Once again, we're wondering how we can wait that long to return !" -Pat L (Sandy Spring, MD)
e-mailed"Our fourth year at Great Expectations...a terrific vacation for all 8 of us and we are looking forward to next year [booked the Villa again before they left]!"-The W. Family (NY)
"I’m having the time of my life!" -Tobin B., age 5 (Ann Arbor, MI) "me too!" -Maya B., age 3 (also Ann Arbor, MI)
"This was our first visit to St. John – and a wonderful one for an extended family of 14! Some of our favorite memories are arriving at Great Expectations after leaving a cold (-3 degrees) Massachusetts and a long day of traveling – what a beautiful surprise!" - Bill & Maggie K. (Deighton, MA)
"Can’t wait to come back"-Heather, Craig & The Twins [turned one year old on St. John]"An awesome vacation. I wanted to let you know once again, that we had a grand time at Great Expectations! The common and private rooms/areas set-up were great as individuals could participate in the commotion if they wanted or take some private time in one of the areas off each bedroom."-Dave & Marcia (Maine)"What a beautiful location!" -Mike & Diane J., Larry & Denise M., Randy & Gerry M. (Ohio)
"Great Expectations meets every accolade. Perfect setting - sunrises & sunsets. The accommodations comprehensive and wonderful. Great beds, great rooms, great tennis court, great weather, great beaches, great restaurants, etc., etc." - Dave L. (Maryland)
"So many thoughtful touches - beach chairs, umbrellas, hats - more than we expected! We’ve rented houses in many places and this was the best!" -Elaine L. (Maryland)
"This is the 1st time we’ve rented a villa and we’re now converts!"-The D.’s (New Jersey)
"Our 33rd St. John visit and we still love it...Kristin & Chuck have made a lovely vacation home...see you in 2005!" - Martha & Jeff H. & 3 other couples (NY)
"The S.'s came from parts up north In search of February sun To St. John isle we traveled forth To snorkel, swim and have some fun!Three generations rested here With average age of thirty-four The youngest being three, but dear The eldest one is may more! A gang of nine, we hit the town Explored the beaches, saw the hills We hiked the trails, both up and down And squealed our tires on the hills! We loved the house, with all her views. With toys and games and everything The nine of us could rightly use With homemade bread fit for a king! The flora and the fauna, too The hummingbirds and crabs galore Even the iguana poo We always noticed something more! The tennis courts saw lots of play The hammocks, pool and hot tub too The sun shone on us every day Though nighttime tempests often blew!We went to beaches, near and far We snorkeled in the balmy sea Saw turtles, skates and even gar Oh, what a glorious place to be!While here, we supped both in and out Morgan's Mango fed us well Joe's BBQ a sure-fire win and Lime Inn really rang our bell!A week is over in a trice Our skin is tanned, our hair is light but, oh, it has been very nice We leave with all our spirits bright!And so, mine hosts, we thank you very much For sharing breezes, sea and home The beauty of this isle is such We'll yearn for it wherever we roam!" -The S. Family (Maine, Massachusetts)
"...the best damn villa on St. John! We can’t wait to come back to enjoy this again next year...Our expectations were exceedingly exceeded!" -Mike & Ron, June & Mike, Karen & Dave, Keith & Mo, Gail & Ted (Palm Beach & Philadelphia)
"...our 3rd time at Great Expectations and hopefully not our last!"- John & Gail D. (St. Davids, PA)
"...we were able to return to Great Expectations for the 2nd time in less than a year! St. John and Great Expectations are our little heaven on earth!" -Carolyn & Eric M. (Pennsburg, PA)
"We haven’t been here for 3 years and it stills feels like home!"-Jake, Anne, Dillon & Connor F.
"This was our second fabulous year at Great Expectations....look forward to next year in Paradise." The B. Family, (Wayland, MA)
Tropical Treats Thrown into Paradise my eyes were at awe, the tropical night sky seemed without a flaw. A painted black canvass splattered with white spots, a moon playing father to all his little dots.Night turns to day and black turns to blue, revealing the abundance of beautiful hues. The blue sky and turquoise Caribbean sea, the white beach sands and the tall palm tree.Sitting on this mountain staring across the bay, I see another mountain pushing into the sky. Now I write this on our last day, who knew how time would fly!-By Daniel McM. for Robert, Katherine, Stephen, Linda, Nick, Ella and Susan & Becky. (Chicago, IL; Jacksonville, FL)
"This villa had everything you need. Take advantage of all the guide books...Looking forward to another visit..." -Linda McM
"This was the best vacation we ever had! The house was fantastic! The views spectacular! The atmosphere warm & friendly! The beaches were beautiful! The snorkeling & swimming were great! Can’t complain about a thing! We really enjoyed your hospitality & the beauty and wonderful scents of all the gorgeous flowers. Thank you so much for building this place & allowing us and all your other guests to experience this fantastic island! Great Expectations not only met - but exceeded all our great expectations! Hopefully, we can come back one day!"-Mitzi & Steve R., Matt, Sherri. Cole, Cassidy, & Kenzi M., Mark, Kaylee, & Kyle M. & Shana (Fort Walton beach, FL)
"We have all enjoyed staying in St. John so much that we are really sad to be leaving. We are already planning our next vacation so that we can come back to Great Expectations. The house was perfect with everything we could have possibly needed. None of us have ever seen such beautiful sights. And thanks to the tips from Kristin and Chuck, we have had a great time exploring the island and the beaches. We saw amazing coral and fish while snorkeling and enjoyed the beautiful beaches and powerboating. The hot tub was so relaxing. Thanks again for everything and hopefully we'll be back soon!"-Mitch, Fran, Mitchell, Amber, Caitlin, Ryan and Naz
"...Great views and facilities. The kids loved the pool and had a great time on the tennis court." -Tracy, Lisa, Jessi and Jake P. - Dawsonville, GA -Ronald and Hilda G. - Cumming, GA-John, Angela, Andrew and Jared S. - Woodstock, GA
"We had a great time at the villa. We were so fortunate to be able to have our wedding in St. John and stay at Great Expectations. Kristin and Chuck were great at letting us know their thoughts on a caterer, flowers and ideas to make our special day great. Thanks so much forletting us come into your beautiful home. Hopefully we can come back next year." - Michael and Deana C., Judy R., Jane B., Shirley and Bob C.
"We had a great family reunion here in St. John . We come from New York, Tennessee, Colorado, Texas and Florida. Our first impression was "we have to stay here or take it with us when we leave" We shall take many happy memories with us. Great Expectations was really rockin' with this group." -The S. Family
"Great time! We are three families of four - each with 2 teenagers...Happened to loose power on 2 nights we cooked dinner - made due with the wonderful grill. We come on vacation with two other families, I must say we had lots of privacy in this villa. When we were home we used the hot tub, tennis courts and pool...Vacationing with two of our best friends families (12 in total) here at Great Expectations was a wonderfulexperience - for both children (14-16) and adults (no age specified)
A wonderful time was had by all. We cooked in (lost power - true test) hope you like to camp - went out - All Good restaurants - Loved all beaches and the weather was wonderful. If it's raining - wait a minute - it will turn into a great day in Paradise! Lay back - relax - Enjoy Paradise!" -The H. Party
"Great place, plenty of room for everyone! Of course there were only four of us! Next time we'll bring a boat load of people. Watched the Olympics, grilled out, ate out, enjoyed the views, sea glass hunting at Hart Bay, snorkeling all over the island and relaxing in the hammocks! Thanks for sharing your place."-The D. family - Fairfax Station, VA
"Great Expectations were satisfied for our vacation. Fully functional air conditioning was refuge from the heat, as was the spectacular snorkeling had from Trunk Bay. As we leave, [Hurricane] Frances is on the horizon. What a great way to celebrating a 40th birthday with my family. A true island experience - I loved the water the most."-The A. Party
BY E-MAIL..."We've just gotten home from our stay at Great Expectations and wanted to say a sincere thank you for making it all happen so quickly and so easily.What a wonderful home you've created in St. John, so elegant in its simplicity. We've stayed at some of the finest villas in Bermuda, Provo, Abaco, etc. but have never felt so immediately comfortable in new surroundings as we did within minutes of our stay at Great Expectations. We all marveled at the variety and beauty of the views from all points of the property...Thanks again for providing us such a wonderful base of operations for our first land based trip to St. John...We look forward to doing it all again and will definitely be in touch.-Bill M. (Atlanta, GA)
By e-mail...i am proud to say that, after being an email addict for 9 months, this is the first time i've checked my email on the island!!!MUCH more to come, but i just wanted to say that i am having simply the most amazing time right now - the island is great, the house is great, everything is great. and i can slowly feel myself letting go and all the stress of the last year is oozing out of my body. THANKS so much to you and chuck for this fabolous opportunity! warm regards,-justin, Washington, DC & CAps. i know aaron...feels the exact same and we all give you and chuck a cheers every time we have dinner :) "
"We had a wonderful vacation on St. John – thank you very much for your enormous generosity and kindness. Your house is gorgeous and the views were breathtaking each evening at sunset. What a great place..." - Aaron R. (NYC)
"Great Expectations fit our family to a tee...as Daniel, age 10, said upon our arrival 'look we live in a mansion'!" - Bob & Jan, H., Kathryn, Jack, Ben & Anna E., Caries, John, Matthew, Daniel & Patrick H., and Amy, Paul, Joe & Lainey A. (\Kansas, Colorado & Minnesota)
"Our fifth year at Great Expectations...Next year we are slotted for two weeks and we're already counting the days!" - The W. Family (NYC, London, etc)"Our first visit tot he island of St. john was amazing. We enjoyed Great Expectations immensely!" - The S./H./O'C. Clan (6 adults & 5 kids)
"This is our 5th visit to St. John and the nicest villa in which we have stayed. The Danish Country antiques and the Bali furniture and artifacts are a joy to live with...The internet wireless access was appreciated." - Ron & Mary Beth B., Karen & Clark M. (Chip & Caroyln) Debby & Rick B (Allison & Jack)
"...all the amenities a family with age range of 18 months to 72 years could want. The views from the Villa are awe inspiring...We love st. John and highly recommend the villa" - The E. Family
"We are sending our fourth year at great Expectations and think it might be our best...We thank you for the movies, CDs, tennis balls, beach buggy and every little touch that make staying at Great Expectations so special." - The J. (NYC, Montana & Rhode Island)
"Our 1st visit to GE...the house was so well stocked and comfy...the kids loved the pool; the wading pool is such a good idea" - The W. Family (Texas) & The F. Family (Virginia)
"...is this place awesome or what!"- The McG's and friends
"...5th stay at Great Expectations (in a row) and each time we stay longer and find it harder to leave...even got my husband to relax - have to say the high speed internet helped...can't wait to come back!" - The VanB.'s
"This was our first stay at great expectations B 15 of us B and it was nothing short of paradise. We enjoyed the space of GE, or as we like to call it 'the compound'. We never heard each other at night when we were in our separate quarters. The DVDs, games, music, and available reading providing some nice entertainment when retreating form the sun. The pools, tennis court and jacuzzis got their share of use as well..There is no question we will be back" - The C Group
"The F-Z wedding at GE was fabulous! We were married on Trunk [Bay] & then celebratedwith our friends & family here at Great Expectations. We had 11 people in total. Everyone loved the villa!" - Bethany Z.
"Beautiful, well-stocked villa!...We especially appreciated all the thoughtful touches in the house from the flashlights by the beds tot he high chair and the Scrabble game and dictionary. The guide books and field guides were all great to have and the big binder was full of useful information from FAQs to restaurant reviews....The five grandsons were in and out of the courtyard pools whenever we were home. Great idea to build a wading pool for the little ones. We found the house very comfortable and quiet, and thought he landscaping was beautiful and well thought out. Happy to see two native species of hummingbirds nectaring on your flowers. We enjoyed harvesting lemons and limes and put them on everything we ate!"- Claire B. et al (WA, Chicago, NYC & Missoula, Montana)
via e-mail from Great Expectations just prior to their departure:"The C. family had 7 days of perfect bliss. We couldn't have asked for one thing we didn't have here. Kathy and Bob were perfect. We had one question during the week which they answered immediately. The layout was ideal for our large family. We had meat shipped here from omahasteaks.com. Can't imagine what we would have spent at Starfish Markets if not for that. My kids don't eat they devour. Places that make a difference in the connectivity of a family are rare. This one totally melded a big clan for one special week. Thank you!"-Charles C. (TX)
via mail: "We certainly enjoyed our stay at Great Expectations. It was all that we expected. We will look forward to staying there again." Sincerely, -Mary M. (MA)"Our sixth return visit to Great Expectations...we'll be back same time next year (oops, really do want to be back next week!)." - The W.'s (Alan, barbara, Naomi, Larry, Jen, Zachary, Adam, Leah and Henry) NY, MT and London.
"This is our first visit to GE and St. John -- 6 adults and 4 children...from Philadelphia, Vermont and San Francisco and all of us are positive that it was worth the trip. We were especially grateful for the high chairs, pack n'plays, crayons, pool toys, sand toys, beach chairs + umbrellas...everything that we could possibly need was here...construction started this morning on the lot next door [this was our first notice of it!]...the boys were thrilled by the bulldozers[!]. We hope to come back again and are so grateful of your kindness in all aspects of planning this trip."-2 H's (PA), 5 T's (VT), 3 T's (CA)
"It has been a wonderful two weeks passing all too quickly! The house was perfect for our needs - comfortable, private, fantastic views & breezes + so many well though touches + details...We totaled 11 ranging from 63 to 10 months. The pack-n-plays, highchairs, bed rails were well used....It was perfect sitting in the Great Room enjoying ideal weather, will miss the outdoor showers, hot tubs & pools. Actually, we'll miss everything about GE...construction begins early & continues til mid-afternoon. Our advice pack a picnic & head to the beaches. If children need to nap, turn on the air-conditioning."-The McC's (Wayland, MA), The D's (Sherborn, MA), The M's (State College, PA), David McC (VT), Melissa & Laura C (Boston)
via e-mail: "Kristin - I have consulted Eliza in California [note: we had asked D. for hersuggestions] who said that she wrote her suggestions on the sheet left by your managers and only remembers having mentioned the cushions on the futons in the great room which kept slipping. Basically her thoughts are that the house is so well equipped that it is hard to think of anything needed. Bob and I simply enjoyed it all and given the ages of the grandchildren, delighted seeing them enjoying the pools ... In sum, you have a splendid house!"- Diana
via e-mail: "Kristin - I just wanted to drop you a quick note to let you know what a great time we had! The house is wonderful and we were so relaxed. What we loved the most was that we could watch the sun rise and the sun set! Amazing! The tennis courts were great for us to stay active and fun for the little guy who was 1 1⁄2 to run around in. A great addition would be to put lights for night time play! We had everything we needed in the house. We used the big book everyday for information. We hired Laura from Passion Fruit Chefs and some of the best food! I can’t imagine the restaurants being any better than the meals she made for us. Travel on the island was easy and the beaches were beautiful. We hope to come back in the future and we would love to stay at Great Expectations! Many Thanks"-Lori D (MD)
via e-mail: "We had a fabulous time and thoroughly enjoyed staying at your lovely guest house. The highlight of our trip was definitely the snokeling boat trip on Sadie Sea. Captain Ben and Skye were fabulous and they took us to some wonderful snorkeling/historic spots. My children felt the same way. Thank you so much! Also, thank you for sharing the beautiful guest house with us and for agreeing to let us stay for the five nights. I was definitely ready to get back to my baby and relieve my parents. We have some wonderful memories that will last a lifetime." -Lori O'K (MD)
"The holiday was very good and the family had a very memorable vacation with all 4 children and their children in tow. The island beaches are excellent and most enjoyable as is the whole of the National Park - we did the reef bay walk which was good. St John is one place we would return to - something that only about 20% of our vacation spots achieves, so it was well regarded. We particularly liked the two way views with both sunrise and sunset as well as the wonderful flowers...Many thanks for the use of your wonderful villa."-- John & Marcia S. and family (Toronto, Canada)
"It was a heavenly week! Your villa is everything you promised, and St. John is a perfect spot for a winter getaway. Cimmaron was very responsive to our requests--another reason for our enjoyment. I was about to say you have thought of everything we could possibly need, but then came up with one tiny suggestion: You and Cimmaron could include in your notes (pre-travel, and on site) the following information for departing guests: you can store luggage with the taxi drivers in Charlotte Amalie upon landing and then wander around town, have lunch, sightsee. It's $15 per person, including transportation to the airport. No need for advance reservations; they meet every ferry and one man organizes it for several drivers.We are refreshed, relaxed, and ready for the snow!"-Sara & Fred E., St. Louis, MO
via e-mail: "We're back in the cold North and already thinking about a return to Great Expectations. It was a wonderful trip for our family and the villa is set up beautifully for our family with with adult children and young grandchildren. Cimmaron Management was very responsive when we had a few problems ( no water one day after we got back from the beach, our granddaughter's horrible (unknown until then) allergic reaction to mosquito bites (age 5)) and resolved things very quickly. We were extremely impressed with this level of responsiveness. Our water came back after a short time and the villa gounds were sprayedwhile we were at the beach so with that and lots of extra insect repellant she was in good shape. We've already given the villa info to a family we met on the ferry on the way back". -Elaine L. MD
"Back at Great Expectations again -- no matter how many times we come back to St. John, we would never stay anywhere else! The Villa looks great as always, beautifully kept -- and it was wonderful to see Chuck and Kristin here, although we think they work too hard! But we know its all an effort to keep this place perfect...We can't wait to come back! "- The Hughes (Seattle) and the Hannaways (Santa Monica), our sons-in-law here for our annual family gathering (unsolicited comments, but they know how to please!)
"..our seventh year at Great Expectations...We will be back...next year. GE is like home for us." -The W. Family (New York and London - -and they are not even related, just good friends after all these years!)
"Thank you so much for allowing us to use your wonderfully situated villa. The view alone is worth he effort of getting here." -The S. Family (Ontario, Canada)
" A beautiful spot, well-hidden, with gorgeous views wherever the eye falls. We found so many thoughtful features -- nice plastic hangars [no rust from the slat air on one's clothes], books, games, every supply we could think of." -Fred & Sara E.
"This is our third trip to Great Expectations and as always we had a glorious week...we brought the family, 9 adults and 2 granddaughters (ages 2-1/2 and 5). They enjoyed every minute. The house is set up perfectly for families." -Elaine and Dave L. (Annapolis. MD, San Francisco and Berkeley, CA)
via e-mail: "We all enjoyed being at Great Expectations and Beau Geste and had a wonderful time hiking, snorkeling and beaching. Your place is just perfect - with views to both the each and west. A special thrill was watching the full moon rise out of the water on the last night of our visit - March 21st. It also happened to be just one day after Spring Equinox. We will remember our time in your beautiful houses with great pleasure and maybe - you never know - we might be back again."-Ann S. and family (Bryn Mawr, PA)
via e-mail: "We had a spectacular time at Great Expectations - once again! Sitting in a lounge chair at dust out by the pool overlooking Chocolate Hole, chilled drink in hand, cool breeze on your face - that's about as good as it gets - if you ask me." -Miranda W. (Charlottesville, VA)
via e-mail: "The last of our children and families have flown off and the house is again empty and quiet. The unanimous decision was that all had had a wonderful time at Great Expectations. The house was spacious, allowing people to spread out, and very comfortable and well appointed. The views were spectacular! Every morning was spent at a beach. Our favorite was Maho with its sandy shore, shallow water and protected bay. The surprise was the intensity of the sun! We quickly moved to a siesta during the heat of the day...We all waited for so long for this week and now it is over and just a wonderful memory. We all enjoyed the use of your wonderful home and your help in making a plan a reality.Nita and Petros A. (Lexington, MA)
via e-mail: "Our group had a magnificent time at Great Expectations. The breezes, the nearness to the sea, sunrise and sunset, tennis and pools...terrific! We're hoping to come again soon, probably same time next year." -Susan C. (NY)
via e-mail: "We had a great wedding and a great time at Great Expectations." Thanks! -Bonnie & Phil (OH)
