Reviews of Property: Magificent sunsets, fresh water lap pool, easy location, great reviews
Description
Villa, 2000 sq. ft.,
3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8, 3 Bathrooms
3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8, 3 Bathrooms
Facilities
mountain, near the sea,
private pool,
garden,
terrace,
balcony
Rates
per property
Set rates in US Dollars
Set rates in US Dollars
$3,500 -
$6,000/week
$11,000/month
$11,000/month
GBP Conversion - Estimated
£2,096 -
£3,593/week £6,587/month
Deborah
Speaks: English
Special Offer:
SAVE $500 for the week
Dates: Dec 12, 2009 to Dec 19, 2009
21 Reviews of Property 172256 in Gift Hill, Virgin Islands (US)
Guestbook Comment
Review Submitted: November 29, 2007
Date of Stay: November 2007
The Florian Villa is The Place to experience a tropical adventure. With privacy, luxury, a gorgeous pool, and breathtaking views of The Virgin Islands, you simply will not want to leave the property. But there is so much to do while you’re on the island, especially if you’re there during one of The Florian Villa Retreats, which are all-inclusive vacations.
Several times a year Scott and Deb, the villa’s gracious and knowledgeable owners, host all inclusive vacations. They have two kinds- Yoga & Active Sport. I chose the latter, and got to snorkel in glass clear water with thousands of color fish, hike all around the island’s National Park (which is 2/3rds of St. John), and even cruised around the entire island in a power boat.
Now you can do all of these activities if you stay in a hotel, but let me say that you’ll miss out on most of it. No matter how much web or book research you do, you’ll never be able to learn how to get around the island like Scott & Deb. They have two brand new SUVs, which are imperative for navigating the steep, narrow roads. And that’s another thing- you could rent a car but I would advise against it. In addition to the roads being steep and narrow, you must also drive on the left. I believe St. John is the only U.S. territory where you must drive on the left.
Scott & Deb also take care of all the gear. You do not have to rent anything- they will provide you with snorkeling and hiking equipment and all the little details (such as water and sunblock). You just grab it and go have fun.
Now let’s talk food. No matter where you go on the island (supermarket or restaurant), food is very, very expensive on St. John. I ate a few of the nicer restaurants there (such as The Balcony) and none of them even came close to Deb’s cooking. We had meals like marinated chicken and veggies, gourmet burgers, and the best Turkey dinner I’ve ever eaten. And all these meals are included in the retreat! As well as beer and wine! And let me tell you- a cold Corona never tasted better after hiking to the top of Mt. Bordeaux (the highest point on St. John).
You could stay at the ultra expensive Westin and not get treated any better.
I cannot say enough about how much I enjoyed The Florian Villa. I urge you to go to their website to find out
Several times a year Scott and Deb, the villa’s gracious and knowledgeable owners, host all inclusive vacations. They have two kinds- Yoga & Active Sport. I chose the latter, and got to snorkel in glass clear water with thousands of color fish, hike all around the island’s National Park (which is 2/3rds of St. John), and even cruised around the entire island in a power boat.
Now you can do all of these activities if you stay in a hotel, but let me say that you’ll miss out on most of it. No matter how much web or book research you do, you’ll never be able to learn how to get around the island like Scott & Deb. They have two brand new SUVs, which are imperative for navigating the steep, narrow roads. And that’s another thing- you could rent a car but I would advise against it. In addition to the roads being steep and narrow, you must also drive on the left. I believe St. John is the only U.S. territory where you must drive on the left.
Scott & Deb also take care of all the gear. You do not have to rent anything- they will provide you with snorkeling and hiking equipment and all the little details (such as water and sunblock). You just grab it and go have fun.
Now let’s talk food. No matter where you go on the island (supermarket or restaurant), food is very, very expensive on St. John. I ate a few of the nicer restaurants there (such as The Balcony) and none of them even came close to Deb’s cooking. We had meals like marinated chicken and veggies, gourmet burgers, and the best Turkey dinner I’ve ever eaten. And all these meals are included in the retreat! As well as beer and wine! And let me tell you- a cold Corona never tasted better after hiking to the top of Mt. Bordeaux (the highest point on St. John).
You could stay at the ultra expensive Westin and not get treated any better.
I cannot say enough about how much I enjoyed The Florian Villa. I urge you to go to their website to find out
10 out of 5 stars
Review Submitted: October 6, 2009
Date of Stay: September 2009
This was by far the best vacation I have ever gone on, largely due to the Florian Villa and helpful advice from Scott & Deb. The weather was hot and humid, but it didn't matter as we just jumped into the pool below to cool off (we also started off our day at 8am by doing this). The villa's best feature was by far the screens which were raised during the day to create the open air atmosphere connecting the living room with outdoors (lower at night to keep out bugs). When needed, we could escape to the chilly bedrooms courtesy of powerful a/c units. The kitchen/outdoor grill and stocked kitchen meant we cooked all of our meals, saving us substantial amount of money.
Quick note on food = try the local restaurant fare and soups sold by local women at Cruz Bay. Our favorite was Morgan's Mango, specifically the Voodoo Snapper. Also be sure to check out St. John's Brewery in Mongoose Junction, home of the best mango beer ever.
There are myriad beaches to visit, but you could in theory keep going back to Trunk Bay, which is by far the most beautiful beach ever. Crystal clear, blue waters, white sand, an amazing snorkeling trail and warm waters made us feel like we were in heaven.
Deb/Scott recommended "Nate the Mate" for deep sea fishing and snorkeling excursions and we were not disappointed (in fact we extended our trip on the last day b/c it was so much fun). Great way to do some fishing (many unique fish were caught), while exploring beaches/snorkeling you can only get to via boat.
All in all, a great time was had by all with zero complaints. This trip and the Florian Villa are highly recommended for all...of course that is until my next trip down there! Thanks Scott and Deb!
Quick note on food = try the local restaurant fare and soups sold by local women at Cruz Bay. Our favorite was Morgan's Mango, specifically the Voodoo Snapper. Also be sure to check out St. John's Brewery in Mongoose Junction, home of the best mango beer ever.
There are myriad beaches to visit, but you could in theory keep going back to Trunk Bay, which is by far the most beautiful beach ever. Crystal clear, blue waters, white sand, an amazing snorkeling trail and warm waters made us feel like we were in heaven.
Deb/Scott recommended "Nate the Mate" for deep sea fishing and snorkeling excursions and we were not disappointed (in fact we extended our trip on the last day b/c it was so much fun). Great way to do some fishing (many unique fish were caught), while exploring beaches/snorkeling you can only get to via boat.
All in all, a great time was had by all with zero complaints. This trip and the Florian Villa are highly recommended for all...of course that is until my next trip down there! Thanks Scott and Deb!
Everything we hoped for and more!
Review Submitted: October 18, 2008
Date of Stay: October 2008
Florian Villa is paradise! The villa has stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands and is minutes to all of St. John's unspoiled beaches. St. Thomas lights up at night and the water sparkles by day. From conveniences like beverages and boxed lunches on the beach and provided beach towels to relaxing morning and evening yoga practice that gave us many stress busting techniques to take home, owners Deborah and Scott had every detail covered. It was a true mental AND physical vacation that has something for everyone...singles, couples and groups. Deborah and Scott make you feel like old friends and know all of the "local" beaches so you can truly get a taste of St. John. You can't go wrong with this villa!
Amazing villa and owners!!!
Review Submitted: August 20, 2008
Date of Stay: May 2008
We stayed at the Florian from 5/24-6/1 of this year. It was an AMAZING villa and week. We were married on the island, had a total of 13 of us there (7 of which stayed at the FLorian), and had Deb and Scott as our hosts for the week. Everything about the villa and the personal service that Deb and Scott provided was OUTSTANDING! I worked with Deb for months on the phone coordinating all the activites, meals, and accomodations, and her input, expertise on the island, and local connections were invaluable! Deb and Scott picked us up at the airport, and it was great to finally meet the exceptional woman who had been SO instrumental in planning my wedding week!
I had stumbled upon their website, while looking for some form of an all-inclusive on the island. As it turned out, it was very beneficial to have them there to help guide us to the best beaches, best restraunts, best snorkel spots, best scuba excursions. Then to top it all off, to have an incredible cooked meal (and drinks) waiting for us when we got back to the villa! The villa itself is even more beautiful than the pictures reflect. The view at sunset is breat-taking, the pool is awesome, and the overall atmosphere is just great. I CAN NOT say enough wonderful things about the villa and the owners. Although I realized Deb and Scott were charitably inclined, I didn't realize the magnitude of it until I returned home and read the article in the Boston Globe. My husband and I had decided on our trip that we would return to St. John regularily, but after reading the article, we knew we would stay at the Florian each time. How amazing to have a dream vacation, and to know that in doing so you are helping the family of a fallen firefighter, not just lining the pocket of the owner of the villa. To our dear friends Deb and Scott, thank you for making our wedding week such an amazing experience, and we look forward to seeing you soon!
I had stumbled upon their website, while looking for some form of an all-inclusive on the island. As it turned out, it was very beneficial to have them there to help guide us to the best beaches, best restraunts, best snorkel spots, best scuba excursions. Then to top it all off, to have an incredible cooked meal (and drinks) waiting for us when we got back to the villa! The villa itself is even more beautiful than the pictures reflect. The view at sunset is breat-taking, the pool is awesome, and the overall atmosphere is just great. I CAN NOT say enough wonderful things about the villa and the owners. Although I realized Deb and Scott were charitably inclined, I didn't realize the magnitude of it until I returned home and read the article in the Boston Globe. My husband and I had decided on our trip that we would return to St. John regularily, but after reading the article, we knew we would stay at the Florian each time. How amazing to have a dream vacation, and to know that in doing so you are helping the family of a fallen firefighter, not just lining the pocket of the owner of the villa. To our dear friends Deb and Scott, thank you for making our wedding week such an amazing experience, and we look forward to seeing you soon!
Guestbook Comment
Review Submitted: August 20, 2008
Date of Stay: August 2008
We stayed at the Florian from 5/24-6/1 of this year. It was an AMAZING villa and week. We were married on the island, had a total of 13 of us there (7 of which stayed at the FLorian), and had Deb and Scott as our hosts for the week. Everything about the villa and the personal service that Deb and Scott provided was OUTSTANDING! I worked with Deb for months on the phone coordinating all the activites, meals, and accomodations, and her input, expertise on the island, and local connections were invaluable! Deb and Scott picked us up at the airport, and it was great to finally meet the exceptional woman who had been SO instrumental in planning my wedding week!
I had stumbled upon their website, while looking for some form of an all-inclusive on the island. As it turned out, it was very beneficial to have them there to help guide us to the best beaches, best restraunts, best snorkel spots, best scuba excursions. Then to top it all off, to have an incredible cooked meal (and drinks) waiting for us when we got back to the villa! The villa itself is even more beautiful than the pictures reflect. The view at sunset is breath-taking, the pool is awesome, and the overall atmosphere is just great. I CAN NOT say enough wonderful things about the villa and the owners. Although I realized Deb and Scott were charitably inclined, I didn't realize the magnitude of it until I returned home and read the article in the Boston Globe. My husband and I had decided on our trip that we would return to St. John regularily, but after reading the article, we knew we would stay at the Florian each time. How amazing to have a dream vacation, and to know that in doing so you are helping the family of a fallen firefighter, not just lining the pocket of the owner of the villa. To our dear friends Deb and Scott, thank you for making our wedding week such an amazing experience, and we look forward to seeing you soon!
I had stumbled upon their website, while looking for some form of an all-inclusive on the island. As it turned out, it was very beneficial to have them there to help guide us to the best beaches, best restraunts, best snorkel spots, best scuba excursions. Then to top it all off, to have an incredible cooked meal (and drinks) waiting for us when we got back to the villa! The villa itself is even more beautiful than the pictures reflect. The view at sunset is breath-taking, the pool is awesome, and the overall atmosphere is just great. I CAN NOT say enough wonderful things about the villa and the owners. Although I realized Deb and Scott were charitably inclined, I didn't realize the magnitude of it until I returned home and read the article in the Boston Globe. My husband and I had decided on our trip that we would return to St. John regularily, but after reading the article, we knew we would stay at the Florian each time. How amazing to have a dream vacation, and to know that in doing so you are helping the family of a fallen firefighter, not just lining the pocket of the owner of the villa. To our dear friends Deb and Scott, thank you for making our wedding week such an amazing experience, and we look forward to seeing you soon!
Fantastic family vacation
Review Submitted: August 17, 2008
Date of Stay: July 2008
I stayed at Florian Villa this summer (2008) and I have to say that it is amazing! There are three air conditioned rooms, an amazing pool, SPECTACULAR views, a great deck, and total privacy. What more could you possibly want in a Caribbean vacation?
The beaches are all within an easy drive (everything in St. John is within an easy drive). I would definitely advise going early though. We would get to whatever beach we were going to that day at around 8:15AM and have the whole beach to ourselves until 10AM. Not until 11 did it get crowded! We would usually leave by 11:30. Really the way to do it.
I can not recommend Florian Villa highly enough. It's not well known (but it will be, I'm sure), so now is the time to get great deals.
Enjoy.
The beaches are all within an easy drive (everything in St. John is within an easy drive). I would definitely advise going early though. We would get to whatever beach we were going to that day at around 8:15AM and have the whole beach to ourselves until 10AM. Not until 11 did it get crowded! We would usually leave by 11:30. Really the way to do it.
I can not recommend Florian Villa highly enough. It's not well known (but it will be, I'm sure), so now is the time to get great deals.
Enjoy.
Guestbook Comment
Review Submitted: August 17, 2008
Date of Stay: August 2008
I stayed at Florian Villa this summer (2008) and I have to say that it is amazing! There are three air conditioned rooms, an amazing pool, SPECTACULAR views, a great deck, and total privacy. What more could you possibly want in a Caribbean vacation?
The beaches are all within an easy drive (everything in St. John is within an easy drive). I would definitely advise going early though. We would get to whatever beach we were going to that day at around 8:15AM and have the whole beach to ourselves until 10AM. Not until 11 did it get crowded! We would usually leave by 11:30. Really the way to do it.
I can not recommend Florian Villa highly enough. It's not well known (but it will be, I'm sure), so now is the time to get great deals.
Enjoy.
The beaches are all within an easy drive (everything in St. John is within an easy drive). I would definitely advise going early though. We would get to whatever beach we were going to that day at around 8:15AM and have the whole beach to ourselves until 10AM. Not until 11 did it get crowded! We would usually leave by 11:30. Really the way to do it.
I can not recommend Florian Villa highly enough. It's not well known (but it will be, I'm sure), so now is the time to get great deals.
Enjoy.
great for families
Review Submitted: August 16, 2008
Date of Stay: July 2008
We took a boatload of kids and a mix of adults to Florian Villa, and we found the place perfect for both communal and independent living. We all appreciated the privacy of the bedrooms (as well as the AC!), and the view from the common areas was spectacular.
As the resident cook for our vacation, I was pleased to find a fully-stocked kitchen, with tons of bowls/utensils/pots and SPICES!
The kids (and adults) loved the pool, and we had some terrific walks around the area, exploring the plants and animals.
The beaches and the town were a short drive away -- just the right mix of privacy and convenience.
As the resident cook for our vacation, I was pleased to find a fully-stocked kitchen, with tons of bowls/utensils/pots and SPICES!
The kids (and adults) loved the pool, and we had some terrific walks around the area, exploring the plants and animals.
The beaches and the town were a short drive away -- just the right mix of privacy and convenience.
Guestbook Comment
Review Submitted: August 16, 2008
Date of Stay: August 2008
We took a boatload of kids and a mix of adults to Florian Villa, and we found the place perfect for both communal and independent living. We all appreciated the privacy of the bedrooms (as well as the AC!), and the view from the common areas was spectacular.
As the resident cook for our vacation, I was pleased to find a fully-stocked kitchen, with tons of bowls/utensils/pots and SPICES!
The kids (and adults) loved the pool, and we had some terrific walks around the area, exploring the plants and animals.
The beaches and the town were a short drive away -- just the right mix of privacy and convenience.
As the resident cook for our vacation, I was pleased to find a fully-stocked kitchen, with tons of bowls/utensils/pots and SPICES!
The kids (and adults) loved the pool, and we had some terrific walks around the area, exploring the plants and animals.
The beaches and the town were a short drive away -- just the right mix of privacy and convenience.
Spectacular Relaxation!
Review Submitted: August 12, 2008
Date of Stay: July 2008
Spent a week at Florian Villa! Could not have asked for a better vacation. We relaxed, went to the beach, Caneel Bay and Trunk Bay, as well as the Westin. We stayed by the pool one day! Cooked in most of the time, bring food if you are going to stay for a more prolonged visits as it can get pricey. The outdoor shower was the coolest! I would definitely recommend the Florian Villa. There's so much (or so little) to do, depending on what you are there for.
Watch for the Florian Villa to be handicapped accessible in the future!
Watch for the Florian Villa to be handicapped accessible in the future!
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