Two couples enjoying a week in paradise
Submitted: February 10, 2013
Stayed: February 2013
Prior to our arrival, the property manager Tammy was great to work with, easy to communicate with. She met us at the Red Hook Ferry and escorted us to our auto rental, and then to Bismarkia. A short drive from Cruz Bay, it is a little off the beaten path, quiet and safe. Unfamiliar with St. John and when exploring other properties, we had originally thought walking & taxi would work, saving money on the rental vehicle, but we were glad we rented the vehicle for the spontaneous day trips around the island we took every day. We also thought we wanted an ocean view property when looking, but found ourselves at the beach daily anyway, and the privacy garden view of Bismarkia was a nice break from the busyness of Cruz Bay and the beaches. We were startled by visitors at one point...two whitetail bucks "enjoying" the garden, and a fast moving iguana.
The home itself is unique and beautiful as soon as you pull in, greeted by two friendly gargoyles and lush gardens. The photos shown are completely representative of Bismarkia. The great room is the heart of the home, open to the pool, kitchen and two private suites. The property is equipped with top quality fixtures and appliances. We loved turning on the iPod/Bose sound system in the great room and lounging around the property. We enjoyed taking in a movie late in the evening, with comfortable, ample seating. After a quick trip to the Starfish market for provisions, the kitchen is well equipped - we enjoyed several great meals on the patio and in the dining room. The bedrooms and bathrooms had good quality linens. Laundry set up simply to run a load of beach towels. Utility room also stocked with beach towels, coolers, chairs, etc. Everything is clean and organized...as I explained to a friend, "It's like living in a Pottery Barn catalog". 4000+ square ft, we enjoyed the space with another couple, but valued the privacy of the separate suites as well.
The pool is really the highlight of the property - plenty of space to float and lounge, with a covered area to read a good book out of the sun. The mermaid perched on the edge of the pool is beautiful and mesmerizing with her shell spilling water into the pool.
The property manager lives in the neighborhood and was a great resource for hard to find hiking maps and a solid referral to a great onsite masseuse. She was easy to reach by text message mid week, and accommodating to meet us at our departure.
Stop looking, just book it :
Recommended for:
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 4/4
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