Vacation Rentals by Owner

2nd Trio from Ohio

Guest: Tom (Ohio)
Date of Stay: 04/26/12 Review Submitted: 05/01/12

After 4 long mild winter months in Ohio we decided to return to your Magens Fancy! Thank you again for your generosity in opening up your villa to us! St. Thomas is starting to feel like home for us! The view!!! What words can be written to describe this heavenly view?? The water mirrors the color of the sky.....it is impossible to sit inside in front of the tv with so much beauty to gaze upon!!!! We enjoyed filet mignon and burgers on the grill and the fully-equipped kitchen allowed for more beach time. The swimming pool was incredible as always with the perfect temperature and gives a great light show at night!! The evening breeze and soft sheets at night make for a beautiful night sleep! We have stayed at three other villas on the island and Megans Fancy is by far our favorite! Thank you again!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Trip of a Lifetime!

Guest: Bill (MInneapolis, MN USA)
Date of Stay: 03/17/12 Review Submitted: 04/10/12

I do not know where to begin, the house was more than we expected! Tina met us at the airport and waited in line for a rental car for close to 2 hours before taking us to meet our friends at a local restaurant. As we got out of town and into the hillside we knew our adventure had begun, left side driving and all. We got about 2/3 of the way up the side of the bluff before making a sharp turn into the driveway. Driveway is a stretch as it is actually about a 5 minute off road adventure. Rent a jeep, while the locals make the trek in regular cars you will not be comfortable without 4-wheel drive (Hint - Budget is the least expensive but make sure to get one of the newer models). Upon arriving to the house we were surrounded by beautiful native plants and flowers. When you come up to the house you begin by entering through a large privacy concrete fence. Once on the otherside paradise awaits you! The view over looking Megan's Bay is awe inspiring! Outside you will find a nice dining table, grill, sun chairs, a pool and a decent BBQ. They must've taken other travelers reviews to heart as the old one described in other reviews was in the driveway and a relatively new one was on the patio. Now for the house itself - We were traveling with another couple so the master bedroom was a bit of an issue. We ended up with the master suite, so of course it was fine for us. Our friends did get the smaller room, but they also used the 3rd bedroom as a closet and the hall bathroom was thiers. The master suite was very nice with a four poster bed and bathroom. Beware (enjoy) of the "Coki" frogs as they will sing you to sleep every night. The rest of the house boasted an outdated yet functional kitchen, dining room, and living room. There was a nice new TV, but in paradise who really wants to watch the evening news. The WiFi did come in handy as I did break down and check-in with work, but only once! We spent 5 nights at the house and then went to St. John's and stayed at the Westin for a couple nights to the tune of $1,000/nt, my wife and I were so pleased by the house that we were disappointed with the Westin. Do yourself a favor, stay at the house your entire trip and day trip it over to St. John as the Nat'l Park is a must see. If you are traveling with kids, another couple, or are simply looking for the ultimate in privacy, this is the place for you. One last thing - The view is truly to die for!! Thanks for everything, Bill and Nicole Godbe

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Ultimate relaxation!

Guest: John and Carol (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 02/25/12 Review Submitted: 03/09/12

My husband and I spent an amazing week at Magens Fancy. This was our 5th trip to St. Thomas, but our first stay at Magens Fancy. We will definitely be returning to Magens Fancy. This was the best vacation my husband and I ever had! The villa was comfortable, extremely clean, and well-appointed. They have many more beach toys for guests than is stated on the website! The views are unsurpassed! The pool is very clean and comfortable, complete with a built-in seat to soak up the afternoon sun! The outdoor area has a variety of seating for either the sun-loving or shade-loving person, and all are comfortable. The villa is conveniently located on the island (although you definitely need an escort to find it on your first trip!). If you want peace and quiet and total relaxation, Magens Fancy is the ideal place. The hospitality of the owners, Alice and Dave, as well as our greeter, Tina, was exceptional. Everyone was very conscientious in assuring that our stay was pleasant. Everything was perfect! I would not change a thing. We will be back to Magens Fancy next year!!!

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Magen's... Average

Guest: Lars H. (Vergennes, Vermont)
Date of Stay: 02/18/12 Review Submitted: 03/11/12

PROS The property is remote and private, with beautiful views of Magen's Bay. The grounds: lorikeets and hummingbirds, palm trees, really lovely. The kitchen was fairly well equipped, beds comfortable, and the infinity pool was very pretty. CONS The house is somewhat run-down, with broken tiles over the water tank and cracked tiles in various places. The kitchen is kind of beat up, with rust spots on the fridge, stained counters, and stained tiles. The water system, though filtered, gives off a powerful odor of sulfur, particularly in the master bath and the kitchen, so one has to run the water for a while before use (and even then, there is an odor and flavor of sulfur). The house was not very clean, either -- dirt along baseboards and in corners, dusty fixtures, and so on. We contacted the owners during our visit to fix an electrical problem, then contacted them again afterwards to try to suggest that the condition was really not as advertised in the hopes that they would take constructive criticism and improve the property for future tenants. We were met with defensiveness and even a hint of anger in both cases, and the interchange ended somewhat badly, which was dismaying. We will not return, and suggest that anyone interested in renting this property be sure to understand the condition, and thus value for money.

Owner response:We are sorry you had such a terrible experience, but the party who arrived just 5 hours after you left thought it was amazing. We only cleaned the villa, as usual, and they definitely would not change a thing. We are pleased that they want to return to Magens Fancy next year. You recommended as a “Romantic Getaway.” That’s fantastic!

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Absolute Relaxation

Guest: Betine (Copenhagen, Denmark)
Date of Stay: 12/22/11 Review Submitted: 01/15/12

We stayed for 3 weeks over Christmas and New Year. The house, pool and surroundings lived up to expectations almost 100 % and there is not much to add referring to the last review. We would have liked a less "worn and torn" grill on the deck and an optimized function of the kitchen section but overall everything functioned OK to perfect ! A perfect tranquil sanctuary for families and friends and a splendid base for exploring the other USVI

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The Perfect Getaway for All

Guest: Amy R (Lafayette, LA, USA)
Date of Stay: 08/01/11 Review Submitted: 09/09/11

We have been at Magens Fancy a month and a half. We rented it for three months. Although we are not finished with our stay, I felt I wanted to go ahead and write my review. We are a young couple with a small poodle. We were greeted by the owners at the airport with open arms. . The cab to the villa with all of my luggage was $80.00 for a short distance. So, if you can help it, schedule your flight to coincide with your car rental hours Alice and Dave are very professional and lovely people. They have helped make our transition to the island very easy. You might want to consider renting a Jeep. The driveway is a off-road adventure and being able to smell the fresh salt air and feel the wind in your hair is a great sensation, or keep the top up for A/C. The beds in the villa are very comfortable and the linens of the best quality. There are no tiny towels here. The villa is very secluded. You will see no one just walking by. Fresh fruit trees are on the property for you to pick. They make great daiquiris. We haven't visited many restaurants. We prefer to cook on the grill and eat on the deck. There is no better view for breakfast, lunch or dinner. There are plenty of places to shop and jewelry is very reasonable. The beaches are all beautiful and if you are an adventure seeker, there are completely private hidden beaches where it is just you and your family or spouse. Very Romantic! Pack a lunch and stay all day. We keep windows and doors open while we are home. I have been in the relaxing pool at least morning and at sunset. There is nothing like hearing the wildlife and ocean breezes. There is no need for air conditioning. There is a superb panoramic view from all over the property. You can see other islands and the waves crashing on the point. Even a rain storm is beautiful. We were here for Irene. Magens Bay is just below and a great beach for swimming and sunning. It is a calm waters cove. Coki Beach is some of the best snorkeling. It is also the home of Coral World, which is a MUST SEE. They offer turtle encounters, snuba and a variety of other beautiful animals. They provide a plethora of information about the marine life. Children and adults get a chance to touch sharks, starfish, conch, etc at no additional charge. I am a diver and the dive sights are amazing. 22 years of diving and St. Thomas is on the top of my list.There are also ferries and seaplanes to other islands. Thanks to Alice and Dave for the PERFECT stay. It couldn't have been better!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Honeymoon in Paradise

Guest: The Michael's (Georgia)
Date of Stay: 03/13/11 Review Submitted: 03/27/11

My husband and I just got home from spending 8 amazing days at Magen’s Fancy. It was everything we had hoped for. The view is breathtaking, day or night. We enjoy our privacy, and Magen’s fancy is quite and secluded. The villa is spacious and well taken care of; and Deon the property manager is very helpful. The infinity pool with changing lights was blissful. Make sure to rent a jeep when staying here, because the driveway is an adventure in itself! We hope to return for our one year anniversary next year! Lots of Love- The Michael’s

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway.

Magen's Fancy--what a view!

Guest: Cherish (Washington State)
Date of Stay: 02/10/11 Review Submitted: 03/18/11

My parents, sister and brother-in-law, friend and husband all had the opportunity to stay at Magen's Fancy and it was a fantastic vacation! The whole family had room to enjoy ourselves and also have space to ourself when needed. Our favorite part was spending time on the patio enjoying the view and the hummingbirds coming by for a snack. The table on the patio was great for meals any time of day....and of course there is the pool! The view and the colors kept us enthralled. We loved going to the beaches and around the island, but many mornings we didn't want to leave our haven. It's a bit off the beaten path (long driveway!), but we enjoyed how quiet it was and that we were in our own sanctuary. We hope to be back again soon :)

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway, sightseeing.

Fabulous home & views!! Extraordinary!

Guest: FABULOUS Villa!!! (Mooresville)
Date of Stay: 12/24/10 Review Submitted: 01/01/11

Our family of 4 was lucky enough to spend a week in December 2010 at this beautiful home. From the moment we entered the property we were greeted with AMAZING views of pool, mountains and ocean! The home was perfectly appointed and we felt completely at home. Anyone wanting a relaxing restful vacation or action packed fun-filled get-away should stay at this home. You will not be disappointed! Alice is a wonderful host and honest! We will absolutely return! Happy 2011 Alice and good luck in the year ahead!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Our first trip to St Thomas

Guest: Lori S. (Vieques)
Date of Stay: 11/10/10 Review Submitted: 11/27/10

We really enjoyed your villa...the view is fabulous! Thank you for the dining suggestions as well as the tour on the way to your villa. The house was very well appointed. Our stay was during rainy season, however our enjoyment was not hampered...we got a lot of use out of your pool (between showers) and your Monopoly game (during showers). It was a great chance for us to check out the island and have some quality family time.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, girls getaway, pet owners.

Great place to stay while in St Thomas

Guest: Tanya (Washington DC)
Date of Stay: 09/22/10 Review Submitted: 11/21/10

My boyfriend and i had to get ready for vacation on St Thomas in less than a week, and the owners of Magens Villa were very accomodating in booking the place at the very last minute. Even though we stayed at the side apartment and not the main villa, we were able to use the gorgeous infinity pool with changing lights, outside grill and beachware (incl. 2 pairs of snorkeling masks, shoes, large cooler and beach toys) any time we wanted. This place is located a little higher on the mountain with amazing views of Magens Bay, palms, other islands, etc. I am definitely glad we stayed there instead of right by the beach because we got to see so much more from being up higher! The place is nice and clean, has everything you need in the kitchen in case you decide to cook yourself inside or outside by the pool. I would definitely recommend to rent a Jeep rather than a smaller car to get back and forth from there because of the mountaineous area. If you stay there and then decide to come back next year they even give you a discount to keep regulars - what a great idea.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Jim & Joyce
Date of Stay: 06/08/10 Review Submitted: 08/14/10

Alice & Dave, Thank you for the use of your home. It was an awesome family gathering, revisiting old haunts & seeing many dear friends. The 2 weeks went way too fast. The home was a good central location for everything we wanted to do.f

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I only wish I had met you in person!

Guest: Yvette Baez
Date of Stay: 04/05/10 Review Submitted: 05/09/10

Alice/Robin, thank you for the exceptional experience in St. Thomas! My girls and I are well traveled (ages 5 and 9), but this island is the first we considered staying on, and it had all to do with the house. While I admit, the drive the first day was fairly intimidating - it was well worth it to come home to our magnificent pool and the views (oh, the views!). The amenities in the house were perfect (the flat screen was a great bonus!) and the pool made it all worth it. I would recommend Magens Bay, Lindquist, Lindbergh, the day trip to St. John, Coral World and Coki Beach, lunch at Cuzzins and Glady's (both in Charlotte Amalie) and the ice cream at Udder Delight - and Happy Hour at Iggie's is a must. Having a car made seeing all top 10 things to do in St. Thomas a breeze! You were a wonderful hostess, I only wish I had met you in person! - Show quoted text -

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my dad is dreading going back to minnesota and the cold!!!

Guest: Jackie E. (Kansas)
Date of Stay: 03/14/10 Review Submitted: 05/09/10

dear alice, thank you again for spending our time in your home. we are full of praises for your property and the entire organization behind the rental. everything went smoothly and without a problem. we can only recommend the website and affiliates to all our friends! i don't know just how many pictures we took from your pool and the million dollar view behind it!!! also, thanks for having the house so well equipped, that we didn't miss any comforts from home! we did buy some items (e.g. a good cutting knife, a pitcher and some pool toys) that we left there and hope your next guests can make use of them as well. also thanks for recommending amalie car rental, magdalena and her husband were very nice, robin was a joy and gave us helpful hints while we waited for our baggage. we hope you get to spend some time in our lovely house as well, we sure hope to return some day!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, sightseeing.

Rat infested villa

Guest: bearwool (Philadelphia, PA USA)
Date of Stay: 12/12/09 Review Submitted: 11/19/10

The villa was rat infested. When we told the owner, she moved us to a Holiday Inn pending her finding us another villa. She never found us another villa and we never got a refund, despite her promises to the contrary. She ruined our vacation. She told us they were just "island rats". But they were the size of cats and there was rat droppings throughout the house. Stay away fom this one, not only because of the rats, but because this lady doesn't honor her word.

Owner response:We never promised a refund, we promised to make it right! The tenants at Magens Fancy the month prior to this rental did not see any rats! It seems when we took our dog away with us, the rats sensed this and somehow entered the villa. Upon notification of the problem, our villa manager, on our behalf, immediately called an exterminator. We put the couple up in a hotel at our expense ($1,125.72) and had the villa thoroughly exterminated and cleaned. We found three alternative villas which they would not even look at. We refunded $3,000. Then we found we were robbed of $3,500.00 worth of electronics (TVs, DVDs etc.) while they were still in possession of the key and inventory items. All rentals are terminated by surrendering the key! We were not covered by insurance because they had failed to secure the villa (unlocked window.) The police found no evidence of break and entry. They refused to move back into the villa when it was suitable for occupancy! We had an emergency flight back to the island to replace electronics, install an ADT security system, and meet with the exterminators to insure there would be no further rat problems. Our costs far exceeded any further refund they may have felt deserved, and we kept our work by making it right! All of this happened in 2009 (why complain now?) and we have had 15 successful weeks of rentals since then, with no sign of nasty pests. Our exterminators are very good and we can guarantee there will be no rats, (which are vegetarian tree rats no bigger than a kitten, certainly not the size of a cat.) Magens Fancy is surrounded by over 50 acres of natural woodlands, and you may see an iguana, gecko, turtle, or possible a deer, but there are no rodents in the villa. Check out all the other reviews, and come see for yourself the unique ambiance of Magens Fancy.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car

Guest: Squibb
Date of Stay: 09/25/09 Review Submitted: 09/24/09

Alice, Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful home with us. We had an awesome time. The view from your deck is unbelievable! We had great weather and we loved Magens Bay and the beach. We went to St. John a couple of times. We will probably come back to this island of Paradise again. Oh, I almost forgot - Thanks for the welcome basket of goddies, and your hospitality was second to none! Thanks again, Dennis, Stephanie & Claire P.S. Jeff and Irene were very helpful. Jeff, Thanks for picking us up at the airport. I would have never found it. You were right, it was easy to find our way around the island. I was getting use to being on the left side of the road.

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Guest: Bud Domagata
Date of Stay: 02/27/09 Review Submitted: 02/26/09

"MAGEN'S FANCY GUEST OWNERS: As the owner of a cottage that is often loaned out, I appreciate what you have provided for us guests...AN ADVENTURE IN PARADISE...From that nuts drive down from 37 to the unmatchable view it's all GREAT. As a gift back to you please accept the Champagne from the "FOUR FROM ILLINOIS." Most Sincerely, Bud Domagata"

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Guest: H. Domagata
Date of Stay: 02/27/09 Review Submitted: 02/26/09

"Your home is lovely - We enjoyed everything in your wonderful property. The view says it all! Thanks again for allowingus to stay. H. Domagata"

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Guest: C. Green
Date of Stay: 02/27/09 Review Submitted: 02/26/09

"Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful Villa with us. The weather, view, pool, & accommodations were all wonderful, perfect, beautiful and everything we hoped they would be!"

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Guest: M. Green
Date of Stay: 02/27/09 Review Submitted: 02/26/09

"I felt like we were in our own Paradise while we stayed at your home. Thank you for allowing us the pleasure. M. Green"

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Dream Vacation

Guest: Mike & Mary
Date of Stay: 01/14/01 Review Submitted: 04/23/12

Thank you for sharing your villa with our family. Our son brought us here for our 40th anniversary and it was truly a dream vacation. It was a magical week for all of us. We thank our sons for finding the villa. We love the view and the well equipped kithen made it easy for us to have family breakfasts and dinners together. We found each beach we visited breathtaking and unique for different reasons. The driveway eas an experience itself, and we thank Tina for showing Jeff the way.

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