We just spent a week in My Happy Place. That is not a state of mind but a wonderful vacation rental on St. John USVI. The expansive southern view is only the icing on the cake. When we stepped off the late ferry from Red Hook, Henry met us with a smile and the offer of a shuttle to the car rental, where we picked up our ride for the week, then he led the way to Happy Place. If you are not familiar with St. John, when you leave the water’s edge everything is up and, Happy Place is no exception. The winding roads take you up over 300 feet and, although it may seem daunting, I’m sure you will agree when you get there that it is well worth the drive. There is a large private parking area with easy access (no steps) to the apartment entrance. When you walk in the door it is hard to ignore the view, out of the double patio doors, of Chocolate Hole and the beautiful Caribbean beyond. After you tear yourself away from the stunning view you might notice the newly renovated kitchen (that is better equipped than my own), the comfortable queen size bed in the bright and airy bedroom, the double sink in the well-lighted adjoining bathroom and the roomy walk in shower. There is also a full size couch and two comfortable chairs to relax on when you’ve had enough beach time. There’s a gas grill if you feel the need to do your own ribs and a dishwasher to help with the clean-up. You won’t have to bring as many clothes because there is a washer and dryer with soap and fabric softener. Oh, if the power should go out (which it does on occasion on St. Thomas and St. John) there is a back-up generator to keep the lights on and the wi-fi up and running.
I could go on but, enough about the amenities, WE LOVE THIS PLACE. I love sitting there in the morning with a cup of coffee, watching the light slowly come up over the green hills or seeing the morning showers move across the island and out over the water. I love coming back after a day at Salt Pond or a hike to Reef Bay and having this wonderful setting to relax in. This is the perfect escape from the winter up North. If this isn’t your happy place, you need way more than a Caribbean vacation.
As a side note, I made the mistake of walking off and leaving my Ipad behind. I was not a happy camper. Thankfully, Larissa had it in the mail to me in no time and I had it in hand back in Ohio in a week. Thank you Larissa.