We've stayed in the Crystal Palace twice upon returning from charters in the BVI and have found it a great way to punctuate a great time with a relaxing overnight stay at one of St. Thomas's historic residences. Ronnie, the proprieter, has punctually fetched us from the ferry terminal upon our arrival and instantly made us feel welcome, and he corresponds with service to the airport at the end of the stay. The Palace is a historically resplendant home with large, clean rooms decorated in period furniture, and the veranda with its remarkable view of the Charlotte Amalie harbor is, by itself, worth the overnight price. Add the well stocked honor bar to the equation and you have one of my favorite places in the Caribbean. Ronnie is a compendium of information about St. Thomas, both past and present, and adds exponential charm to the Crystal Palace experience. I can't wait to return.

The USVI and BVI make a fine vacation, but the stories you tell your friends may be the same ones they tell you: "How 'bout that Foxy? What a character!" "St. John's really nice." It's unlikely that your friends will have had the benefit of staying in a historic house or the running commentary provided by its proprietor, Ronnie. Part B&B and part Broadway Set, the Crystal Palace will make your trip. Ronnie acts like your personal host, from the always-mentioned pickup to drinks on the porch. If you need a spotless cloned hotel, look elsewhere. If you need a memory, check out the Crystal Palace.

From the moment Ronnie picked us up at the airport, to the time he dropped us off at the ferry dock, we had a great time at his B&B. The rooms were very clean and spacious, and there was a great view of the bay, with boats of all sizes coming and going. The informal bar was perfect, allowing for the honor system, which helped moderate the amount we all drank! While everything was great, we were very disappointed in Ronnie's business practices - after being dropped off at the ferry dock, mere moments before the ferry was to take off to take us to the BVI's - he gave us a copy of the bill that he had charged our credit card, and it was quite different from the amount we had confirmed when making the reservation several months before arriving. He stated "the price went up." We tried to make our case, but he was adamant. The other couple we were traveling with also had the same problem. Despite a great stay, it left a bitter taste in our mouths...

We spent a night here before heading off to St. John, which is what quite a few people seem to do. But next visit we will be sure to stay at the Crystal Palace longer!

It was definitely our kind place...very interesting story to the mansion and friendly, enjoyable people.

Our room was clean, spacious, and comfortable.

The other rooms we had access to were filled with the owner's family memorabilia (Ronnie is born and raised "St.Thomasonian" and led to many interesting stories about the island). We learned quite a bit about where to go and what to see during our stay.

The only reason I wouldn't go for 5 stars is if you are looking for elegance or fanciness, you won't find it here...go stay at the Ritz :)

But we will be back.