Our family of six just returned from 7 nights at Joie de Vivre. Our trip was planned for Thanksgiving, but after two historically unprecedented hurricanes the owners were very understanding- advising and accommodating a delay to ensure the best possible experience for our family trip.
The villa's local manager was quite helpful with pre-trip planning, and was also a well-connected asset throughout our stay. She gladly ensured all our questions, wants and needs were attended to.
Having lived on-island, and since then, stayed at or visited many of its most exclusive properties, I can tell you these glowing reviews are correct.
As others have said, the location is perfect: Set within the very best area of St Thomas at its most prestigious address. Joie de Vivre is a spectacle of layout and design, beautifully decorated both inside and out. The home is close enough to anything, yet far enough from the bustle to give you utmost peace and quiet, security, and privacy.
The views and exposure are truly beyond words or capture. Joie de Vivre's positioning, architecture and decor act as a seamless tribute to the surrounding beauty that so typically defies the hand of man.
As our days passed, this feeling didn't fade, as it often does, but rather; the sense of wonder and fascination grew. Regardless of how late I'd stay up, each unique sunrise lured me from my comfy bed, guiding me with coffee-in-hand onto the grand lanai or exploring the varied perspectives of so many different perches. The morning's light revived me as it unveiled St John and played upon the vast spread of islands up through Drake's Passage washing over me with its unmatched dynamic splendor.
I often alternated from feeling god-like upon this magical perch, to a more peaceful state of humbled appreciation gained in witness of this continual unwrapping of such creation gifted in each new moment. Joie de Vivre is the perfect easel to capture this work of art; where those lucky and wise enough to engage and embrace all their senses, are not mere spectators, but are a part of it- within it!
Even if it were to mean delaying your trip for an entire year to meet your villa budget-do it-For you will not be let down!
Thank You to Katherine and Steven for having us. It is clear that you truly care for your guest's well-being, and thus forged a sense that this was more than a business transaction, but rather you acted upon a devotion.
Until next time- Still drunk on paradise!
The Nicholas'