Vacation Rentals by Owner

Very Nice Location

Guest: heather y. (Washington DC)
Date of Stay: 01/21/12 Review Submitted: 01/28/12

My husband and I spent five nights at Rebecca's Fancy. It is in pristine condition and stocked with all one might need to spend a week. The proximity to the beach is a rare find on St. John - walking across the street to snorkel is a luxury on an island of mountain homes. The cottage itself is immaculate and lovingly decorated (though they do need a new grill and beach chair). The porch and patio do not have the best views, but you cannot beat the sunset from the front deck. When deciding whether or not to go, visitors will need to weigh the location (great) with the lack of privacy you experience as a guest on someone's property. This is definitely not a "clothing optional" situation as some other properties can be described. Our previous visit to St. John was at Windwardside Main House--- right next to another small guest house but, because of the heavy vegetation and the fact that the houses are side by side (rather than on top of) each other, we never heard a peep from or saw our neighbors unless we were arriving or departing from the parking lot. Here you have campers on the beach below you and the property owners above you. Both can be heard clearly, and I assume anything we said, or listened to, could also be heard clearly. Though the East End is considered the back of beyond on the island, we had more noise interference there than Coral Bay or Fish Bay, perhaps because it is more of a neighborhood than vacation area (tree trimming, masonry, housework, etc). Again, the prospective visitor must weigh their options - the location is magnificent. Jay and Athena are a wonderful and inspiring couple and are very hospitable. I think it's wise to understand when visiting that you will be sharing the property with your owners/hosts. Personally this is not our ideal situation and thus the 3-star review versus a 4.

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Perfect Retreat

Guest: Pete B.
Date of Stay: 10/03/11 Review Submitted: 11/07/11

Rebecca’s Fancy is an outstanding location. The cottage is quiet and private with a pristine beach and incredible snorkeling literally across the road. Athena and Jay were gracious hosts who made us feel welcome and provided a wealth of information about the island. The view in the morning while you have your coffee is what makes it all worthwhile. The cottage is well appointed and comfortable with an adequate kitchen area and all the various implements of destruction you need for cooking in. Special note, their water is very well filtered. We were staying for 2 weeks and brought loads of bottled water, only used it when we wandered off to other areas. Very impressive media center with access to a large library of movies and music. Very important for me was the internet access. I can manage to take time away from the office, but need to maintain communication. Internet access was true high speed registering at 3M down much of the time. Email and web access were almost as good as home! Many places offer internet access, but this is the VI, much of the time that is only slightly better than dial up. Athena and Jay put a lot of effort and care into making Rebecca’s Fancy a warm and welcoming retreat. It shows. I would without hesitation recommend Rebecca’s Fancy to anyone looking for a peaceful respite. Pete & Teri

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Adventure in Paradise

Guest: Deb (Pennsylvania)
Date of Stay: 04/09/11 Review Submitted: 04/17/11

We had not taken a vacation just for us for quite some time. With family and work commitments abounding, it’s easy to forget what you need. So began our new adventure to St. John, USVI. Let me explain, I am the ultimate information gatherer. After looking at many potential places to stay, we settled on a cottage in the East end. You never really know how your choice will turn out, until you go and experience. For us in one word…fabulous! From the time we stepped off the ferry and onto St. John, we saw beautiful scenery. Beaches to die for, and an endless array of things to do. Mind you, we came to spend time together and relax. That being said, here’s our story. We arrived at our getaway space, called Rebecca’s Fancy. We were warmly greeted by our host, Athena. She led us to my “internet find”, namely our retreat. It was just as I viewed on the internet. It was a beautiful space, very comfortable, spotless, with gorgeous views of the ocean from the wrap around covered deck, and just enough “tech stuff” to stay linked to the outside world ( ie internet a movie& music library) if we wanted. Each day was a new adventure, either for hanging out, exploring the very cool nature of this island, or asking our well informed host, the best places to grab a bite to eat, or the local night life. Our hosts Athena and Jay were like an encyclopedia of St. John information. Which made the trip that much more enjoyable. Kind of like having a private tour guide to give you everything this paradise has to offer. Best memories include: Swimming & snorkeling every day, since we could easily walk to and from the beach. Sunsets that were beautiful, great dining establishments and nightlife, the beauty of island all around us, and the nightly noise of nature lulling us to sleep. All in all, this place gets a high five from us. We’ll be back! Deb and Jill

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Vacation in Paradise

Guest: Deb (Pennsylvania)
Date of Stay: 04/09/11 Review Submitted: 04/17/11

We had not taken a vacation just for us for quite some time. With family and work commitments abounding, it’s easy to forget what you need. So began our new adventure to St. John, USVI. Let me explain, I am the ultimate information gatherer. After looking at many potential places to stay, we settled on a cottage in the East end. You never really know how your choice will turn out, until you go and experience. For us in one word…fabulous! From the time we stepped off the ferry and onto St. John, we saw beautiful scenery. Beaches to die for, and an endless array of things to do. Mind you, we came to spend time together and relax. That being said, here’s our story. We arrived at our getaway space, called Rebecca’s Fancy. We were warmly greeted by our host, Athena. She led us to my “internet find”, namely our retreat. It was just as I viewed on the internet. It was a beautiful space, very comfortable, spotless, with gorgeous views of the ocean from the wrap around covered deck, and just enough “tech stuff” to stay linked to the outside world ( ie internet a movie& music library) if we wanted. Each day was a new adventure, either for hanging out, exploring the very cool nature of this island, or asking our well informed host, the best places to grab a bite to eat, or the local night life. Our hosts Athena and Jay were like an encyclopedia of St. John information. Which made the trip that much more enjoyable. Kind of like having a private tour guide to give you everything this paradise has to offer. Best memories include: Swimming & snorkeling every day, since we could easily walk to and from the beach. Sunsets that were beautiful, great dining establishments and nightlife, the beauty of island all around us, and the nightly noise of nature lulling us to sleep. All in all, this place gets a high five from us. We’ll be back! Deb and Jill

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Outstanding!

Guest: Mike & Gwen (Philadelphia, PA)
Date of Stay: 03/18/11 Review Submitted: 03/30/11

My wife and I spent a long weekend in St. John for her birthday and this was the perfect place! Jay and Athena were very warm and welcoming and have put a significant amount of effort into creating a great home that is perfect for a couple! The view alone made the long trip worth it and the East End of St. John was the right call. We will definitely be back and will recommend to our friends!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

The best vacation ever!

Guest: Adam & Lisa (Columbia, SC)
Date of Stay: 02/12/11 Review Submitted: 03/02/11

We so loved staying at Rebecca's Fancy. The cottage was spotless, and our hosts were so gracious. The kitchen was well stocked and we even grilled out 3 nights for dinner. We loved the Donkeys, roosters, goats on the island and of course the daily visit from the cat up the driveway. Hansen Bay is beautiful and wonderful to wake up to every morning. We enjoyed snorkeling there as well. We visited other beaches and a few National park sights, but loved coming back to the tranquility of the East end. I would not only recommend this place to my family, I want to go back myself very soon.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/23/09 Review Submitted: 12/23/09

My husband and I recently spent 6 glorious days on the East End at Rebecca's Fancy. We found the location extremely peaceful and quiet with beautiful views from most of the windows and wrap around patio. The house was very well provisioned and comfortable. We prefer this side of the island over Cruz Bay so for us, the location was perfect. Jay and Athena are lovely people and wonderful hosts. I would recommend Rebecca's Fancy to anyone looking for some peace and quiet.

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Guest: Kathie & Gary
Date of Stay: 09/12/09 Review Submitted: 09/11/09

Athena's knowledge of the East End was limitless. Her willingness to show us around was more than we could have ever hoped for. Even though we were here off season and most restaurants were closed, we had great meals at Island Blues and The Tourist Trap. Our favorite snorkel was right here in Hansen Bay. We look forward to our next visit.

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Guest: Elizabeth & Robbie
Date of Stay: 06/16/09 Review Submitted: 06/15/09

We had the most amazing vacation here at Rebecca's Fancy. From the fresh flowers in the cottage upon arrival, to the homemade meal Athena cooked for us, everything has been fantastic. We are so glad we chose to stay in the East End as we did not have to experience the hustle and bustle of Cruz Bay. We spent most of the days on Hansen Bay beach relaxing and snorkeling; there was hardly anyone there, which is why we loved it. We did venture out to Trunk Bay, which has the most beautiful beach, but also crowded, and charged $4.00 for admission. Francis Bay was another beautiful beach, and a lot less crowded than the others. We cooked most of our meals right here at the cottage and were able to find almost anything we needed at either Lily's Gourmet or Love City Mini-Mart. We found the best snorkeling to be right here at Hansen Bay and also Trunk Bay. We will definitely be back, hopefully for our one year Anniversary!

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Guest: K&MJ (-)
Date of Stay: 03/26/09 Review Submitted: 03/26/09

Everything and every single minute was perfect. Rebecca's Fancy surpassed how beautiful I imagined it would be..Jay and Athena are so hospitable and so rightfully pleased with their little piece of paradise. Their commitment to preserving the culture and charm as well as the environment of the East End is contagious. The cottage has everything we needed and every inch has been built with the highest standards of quality and excellence. Starting the day with coffee while sitting on the wraparound porch or closing the night with vino and the moon and stars..all possible 6 inches from any of the four doors leading to the porch. We traveled all over the island, enjoying Salt Pond on the south and the northside beaches. In the end we decided Hansen Bay, just steps off the driveway provided equal or better beaches and snorkling; even when a huge (harmless) stingray swam right under me. Next time, I am packing 1/3 the clothing and bringing most of my meals for the week to make the most of Rebecca's Fancy. If you want to sleep well, relax, swim, kayak and snorkle in the best spots on the USVI a beautiful place, this is it! We shall return! Thanks J & A!

Owner response:You are welcome!

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St Johns Vacation

Guest: KKJ2009 (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 02/09/09 Review Submitted: 03/23/09

We were looking for a quiet corner of the world and we found it. The owners (Jay and Athena) were excellent hosts and were able to provide us with detailed info about what to do on the island. We spent several mornings on long walks on the quiet roads east of the cottage or snorkeling in the bay in front of the cottage. Although we checked out several of the better known beaches on the island, in the end we found the quiet of Hansen Bay to be our favorite (which also has good snorkeling). The restuarants in Coral Bay were good but not great. We enjoyed buying food at the local grocery stores and eating on our deck while taking in the view. We're already looking foward to returning.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Guest: Christine & Jared
Date of Stay: 07/24/08 Review Submitted: 07/23/08

Our time here on St. John has become a vital and fantastic part of our journey on Planet Earth. Life has become more vibrant and meaningful. We spent most of our days right here on the beach and some amazing experiences were: kayaking with the sea turtles. Spotting star fish, angelfish, conch, rays, octopi, brittle stars, jelly fish and much more during snorkeling adventures all around Round Bay-Sunsets on the deck of Rebecca's Fancy-Windsurfing at Cinnamon Bay-THANK YOU!

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Guest: Rozanne & Larry
Date of Stay: 06/27/08 Review Submitted: 06/26/08

Everything here at Rebecca's Fancy is so perfect-Jay & Athena have thought of everything you could possibly need, and have provided it here. We did manage to leave for a bit everyday and explored different beaches and restaurants, mainly snorkeling at Salt Pond-beach was great-we saw a shark! The sand and shade at Maho beach was terrific, too. We really enjoyed lunch at Miss Lucy's and pizza at the Donkey Diner, but the dinner out at Sweet Plantains was the best! We especially enjoyed the thunder & lightening storm-we found the candles & played cards. Hope to return soon!

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Guest: Terri & Craig
Date of Stay: 04/27/08 Review Submitted: 04/26/08

Most memorable moments-early morning meditation on the beach or on the deck overlooking the sea. Mourning doves; taking the pain of my Mom's passing & allowing me to have peace & fun on the island. Everything tasted great on this island from PBJ's on the beach, Athena's shrimp & orzo, fresh fish on the grill with mango chutney, burgers at Skinny Leg's or our last night favorite, Sweet Plantains. Snorkeling hot spots for us were: Salt Pond and Waterlemon Cay. Favorite sea life-starfish bed, sea turtles, octopus, conch & schools of pretty blue fish. Best beaches-Honeymoon & Oppenheimer. Cinnamon Bay was really nice & Trunk Bay was postcard perfect-bring your camera! Only regret-leaving! Wish we could have stayed longer. We loved Rebecca's Fancy and the sounds of the night. Jay & Athena are the best! Thanks for a wonderful stay-perhaps we will meet again in Dominica!

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Guest: Jim & Donna
Date of Stay: 03/19/08 Review Submitted: 03/18/08

We have been here for 10 glorious days. It's even better than it looked on the net! Jay & Athena have been terrific hosts, & we feel blessed to have stayed here; they are terrific humans! Some of our favorite past times were snorkeling right here in Hansen Bay; lots of fish and beautiful coral & big barracuda. He looks scarier than he is! Snorkeling Waterlemon Cay was also terrific & visiting the baths at Virgin Gorda is worth the long boat ride. Our favorite restaurants were Donkey Diner (great breakfast & pizza), Shipwreck Landing & Miss Lucy's. But the best part of all was being right here in this beautiful breeze & view. Thank you Jay & Athena!

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Guest: Denise & Bret
Date of Stay: 02/29/08 Review Submitted: 02/28/08

We spent 3 weeks here at Rebecca's Fancy & had a wonderful time!! Great snorkeling & beach combing. Thanks Athena & Jay for sharing the best spot on the island with us!

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Guest: Adam & Liz
Date of Stay: 02/02/08 Review Submitted: 02/01/08

Our first time in St. John and we really hit the ball outta the park with Rebecca's Fancy & the peaceful and stunningly beautiful East End. We spent most of our early mornings sipping coffee and looking at the bay. Then we'd venture off on a hike or take the rental kayaks to Haulover Bay or any number of secluded bays and beaches in Hurricane Hole. Hiking highlights include the majestic Ram's Head and Lameshur Beach area, tho' there wasn't much of a view at the top of Bordeaux Mnt. Trail. We snorkeled most days & were thrilled to see lots of turtles, barracuda,& sting rays at Leinster Beach in particular. What a place that was! No more than 20 people on the beach-and we were the very last to leave a sunset. As for eating. we brought much of our food, preferring to kick back at Rebecca's Fancy at the end of the day and avoid the "crowds" of Coral Bay & Cruz Bay. Adam really enjoyed his gin & tonics, esp. w/the added lime twist from Athena's tree. Liz opted for rum & cokes which she will say goodbye to after leaving. Many thanks to our generous & upbeat hosts, Athena & Jay. Thank you for sharing your paradise with us!

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Guest: Janet and Jim
Date of Stay: 01/21/08 Review Submitted: 01/20/08

We were thrilled to have the chance to stay here. What lucky ducks we are. Enjoy this perfect spot and the people. It was an honor to stay and swim here.

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Guest: Penni Ross
Date of Stay: 01/01/08 Review Submitted: 12/31/07

Thanks for sharing your piece of paradise! Each time we ventured into Cruz Bay, we couldn't wait to return to the solitude of East End. Our cottage was perfect-from the fresh flowers to the comfortable beds. Our favorite thing to do was sit on the porch and "veg"! We never ate dinner in Cruz Bay, choosing rather to frequent Coral Bay restaurants. Our favorites were Aqua Bistro and Skinny Legs. The best hamburger ever at Skinny Legs! We tried all the beaches. Trunk Bay is the most beautiful, but was too crowded at times. Therefore our favorite was Maho Bay, less beach but quiet. We loved the wildlife-the goats, the donkeys, chickens...this is how it was meant to be. Thank you Athena and Jay.

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