Guest Comments - Sanctuary St. John

"This Villa is amazing. What an absolute retreat you have here at Sanctuary. Your home has become our home for the last week and we are so grateful. All of your extra touches have made our stay perfect... the laptop computer, fabulous music collection, and reading material are wonderful. We are flying back home to lots of snow, but will have the great memories of cocktails by the pool, the night sky while relaxing by the hot tub, and fishing on the beach."

-Ann, Theresa, Mike, Mandy, Art & Molly, February, 2010

"Anything I could possibly say about Sanctuary has already been said in this precious journal. Your labor of love is evident in every detail. Sanctuary welcomed us as soon as we arrived. No words were necessary. P.S. - Sanctuary's bay is our favorite part of St John."

-Andrea Stewart and family, January, 2010

"What a fabulous week we have had at your spectacular home. Everything was perfect - our third trip to St John and our first to Sanctuary. We so appreciated all you provided to share with us, especially your fabulous CD collection. Thank you for allowing us to share your magnificent Sanctuary!"

-the Allyns, April, 2009

"Once again we must depart from this magical island where we have come for the past 16 years to reflect, restore, and rejuvenate. This is our first time at Sanctuary, but we have loved coming to know some of your history through your music, art, and endless creative touches. We adored your tropical gardens, which are just lovely - a true labor of love! I took pictures of every flower, birds and visiting iguanas. They are fun! We enjoyed smoothies in the hot tub under a full moon. The breeze, the windchimes, the lull of the waves, the clapping of the palm fronds all soothed us, in harmony with the song of birds in the daytime and the frogs at night. Thank you for sharing your talents and amazing gift to visualize such a Sanctuary - surrounded by love!"

-Lee Ann and Greg, March, 2009

"Our second time here - and it was like coming home! I had no idea that heaven gave out weekly passes until we came to your Sanctuary. Thank you for another week of ecstasy in paradise."

-The Jansens, February 2009

"We had a wonderful time on St John. Your house is so beautiful and comfortable. We feel blessed to have had the opportunity to stay here and visit. Thank you for sharing your home with us."

-The Massoumi Family, February 2009

"Back for a second time to Sanctuary. A fabulous pool, beach, hot tub, dining, and key lime pie making time - and a whole lot of relaxing. Kayaking to the east side of the bay was well worth it to enjoy the great snorkeling with turtles, fish, and dozens of starfish in the sand. Easy to see how you enjoy your time here, and we're grateful that you make Sanctuary available for a few months each year."

-The Blomme Family, January 2009

"Just sitting on the deck enjoying the breeze, the ocean, and the sugarbirds was so relaxing. Thank you so much for sharing your house with us."

-The Anders Family, July 2008

"We have been lucky enough to travel many places, but your Sanctuary is one of our all time favorites. The incredible details and things you provide makes this a "home" instead of another typical rental villa. The laptop computer, the well-equipped kitchen, the library, 100's of CDs and DVDs, the very comfortable beds, the leather recliners, all make for an exceptional experience. Comfortable and relaxing -- you did it right. Thanks so much."

-The Olivers, July 2008

"We heard about Sanctuary from a friend who stayed here, and after doing our research and comparing it to other Villas, we selected your Sanctuary. The pictures on your website became our distraction from work. We could not have envisioned a better setting for our vacation. An experience we will forever cherish!"

-The Coffey Family, June 2008

"The beauty at Sanctuary is remarkable and unforgettable."

-Charlotte, May 2008

"Sanctuary is the perfect place to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. We have visited St John and St Thomas many times since our honeymoon in 1983, but have not experienced anything as utterly perfect as Sanctuary. Your attention to all the details was greatly appreciated. It's very difficult to leave."

-Bob and Doreen, Joe and Kim, April 2008

"We enjoyed the spa, the pool, the views; everything was just perfect. Sanctuary is our favorite villa ever."

-Hind and Nader, April 2008

"It was so nice to wake up and fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing against the shoreline. See you again."

-Samantha, February 2008

"Great house, great view, great time."

-Pete and Lupe, February 2008

"Having rented a lot of villas on St John in the past 20 years, I must say I would rank Sanctuary at the top. We'll be back."

-Don, Leigh and Luke, January 2008

"How could it look better than the website, but it did! It was like home the minute we stepped in."

-Becky Jansen, January 2008

"What an amazing place Sanctuary is. To wake up each morning and see the handywork of God right out your window will be a memory we will all cherish."

-The Owings Family, December 2007

"We all can't thank you enough for sharing your peaceful and beautiful Sanctuary with us. Waking every morning to the sound of the waves, the sunrise on the water, and the ever present breeze was magical and heavenly."

-Cathy and Ken, December 2007

"Coming back to St John has taken a little bit of the "sting" out of turning 60, but staying at Sanctuary has made me want to live to 100. We have been totally relaxed, invigorated, awestruck, and renewed physically and mentally. I've tried to come up with a superlative to describe what it's like here, but "Sanctuary" truly says it all! Now our dilemma is to return home and try to explain it to our friends and family... "

-Pat Howard, August 2007

"We love this spot, especially the easy access to the water and close proximity to town. Your home is very well cared for and it shows. Thanks for the computer and wireless internet connection"

-Rich and Judi, Tom and Lydia, August 2007

"WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE? Thanks for sharing your beautiful corner of the world with us."

-Mary Anne and Tim, July 2007

This villa is incomparable - truly a Sanctuary. We were rejuvenated and relaxed. We went house hunting while we were here but it is hard to beat this place. We will miss your Sugarbirds in the morning. We could not have asked for a better place to stay."

-Debbie and Freeman, Virginia Lee, Christian, and JJ, July 2007

"We have been coming to St John for 20 years, and never enjoyed a villa better than Sanctuary. It was a privilege and a pleasure to spend a fabulous week in your home. We will certainly be back next year for a longer stay."

-Lynda and Stanley, June 2007

"We were amazed upon arrival at Sanctuary for the first time. The house and the property were so much more than we expected!! Thank you for sharing and providing so many extras."

-Susan and Leo Schneider, June 2007

"This is our second trip to your beautiful Villa and we really feel at home. The view is incredible and the sound of the waves hitting the shore is so relaxing. We love this home so much that we will definitely be back."

-Ric, Lorie, Dan and Karen, May 2007

"WOW - Your villa is absolutely amazing! The view is spectacular. The snorkeling and kayaking right out front was also terrific. We will definitely be coming back."

-The Mackey Family, April 2007

"Absolutely wonderful place. St John is great but your special place with so many unique touches made it perfect. Thanks so much."

-The Steads, Columbus, Ohio March 2007

"Thank you again for a wonderful 4 weeks in your beautiful home - we loved it even better this time. You both are wonderful people and we look forward to seeing you again in 2008!"

-Linda and Joe, February 2007

"Your home is a true Sanctuary! The whispering sea, magnificent view, luxurious hot tub and pool. Look forward to returning next year."

-Diane, John, Julie and Phil, January 2007

"We loved Sanctuary and St John so much we look forward to coming back soon."

-The Bethlehem PA Crew, January 2007

"We had an amazing time at your beautiful home. It is truly a "Sanctuary". We will be back."

-Smith Family, York, PA, July 2006

"This is the nicest villa we have ever stayed in! We loved our time here. Thank you for sharing your movies, music, and books. What a nice thing to do."

-The Stennes Family, Seattle, WA July 2006

"Last year when we left here we never imagined we'd make it back so quickly. Everything was perfect and peaceful. If only we could bottle it up."

-Jennifer, Larissa, Amy, and JD July 2006

"Great starry nights - We loved the view and the pool, as well as the ample supply of great music and movies."

-Brospo Family, Baltimore, MD June 2006

"WOW! What a fabulous week we have had at Sanctuary - The perfect name for the perfect place."

-Fulginiti Family, June 2006

"Your home is perfect - I would not change a thing. The peace that surrounds you as soon as you enter is hard to describe. You seem to really care about the people who stay at Sanctuary. It has been good for my mind, body and soul."

-Donna and Stan, Laurel Springs, NJ May 2006

"Absolute Paradise! We based our first trip to St John from your beautiful home. I doubt there is a better place on the island. Thank you so very much!"

-Caccia Family, NJ May 2006

"This is the best house we have ever stayed in. The view is absolutely incredible. We will miss the sound of the ocean. We are sad to leave Sanctuary - can't wait to come back again."

-Ric and Lorie Clark, Toledo, OH May 2006

"Thanks for sharing your home with us. It instantly felt like home to us - but better!"

-Cindy, April 2006

"Your gracious, well-appointed home provided the perfect setting for enjoying all the island has to offer. We look forward to future stays at Sanctuary... "

-Seideman Family, March 2006

"Thank you for the pleasure of enjoying your beautiful home for 3 weeks. We loved every amenity - the coziness, the view, the sounds. Your home is truly a Sanctuary."

-Joe and Linda Z, February 2006

"We needed some time to kick back and recharge, and we found that here. Convenient to the rest of what St John offers, but tucked away with just the right dose of natural tranquility. Kudos for the Pool Suite, the pool, the iguana, the landscaping, the views, the home theater, and especially the pelicans. Hope this peaceful feeling lasts until we return."

-Cortes Family, VA, August 2005

"Serenity, beauty, and timeless quality. The setting and design of your home demonstrate the care and thought that went into Sanctuary.

-Jim and Vicky, Jacksonville, FL July 2005

"Thanks for allowing us to experience all of the beauty of your home - it was outstanding. Counting the days until we can return. Your home rejuvenates ones soul!"

-Sue, June 2005

"Blessings abound at Sanctuary. An infinite number of stars in the night sky - a visit from the resident iguana that we named Charles Ignatius - sweet songs from the local bird families - the walk down to the magnificent beach."

-Lynn, June 2005

"We wanted to take a moment to express our gratitude for sharing your beautiful home with us. A week at Sanctuary leaves us peaceful and rested. Magical moments abound - from eagle rays to island smiles. Thank you!"

-Jennifer and Larissa, May 2005

"It was so delightful to spend a week at "Sanctuary". The moment you enter through the stone archway of this retreat, awe-inspiring beauty surrounds you. This is quite the place to get away from it all and relax. Your senses are soothed by all the natural beauty. Waking to the sounds of nature. Water sloshing, birds chirping, inhaling pure salty air and gentle warm breezes as they tickle the outdoor chimes. Sunlight dancing on the opalescent turquoise water. Hummingbirds, mourning doves, flowers in yellow, red, and peach. Blue skies and beauty everywhere. Thank you for creating such a heavenly place for people to enjoy."

-Nori and Jeff Cerny, April 2005

"We enjoyed mornings with coffee on the veranda, evenings in the hot tub. We all slept like babies with the ocean lulling us to sleep."

-Kathy and Larry Cole, April 2005

"We can definitely see why this is called Sanctuary. Thanks for such a beautiful vacation home."

-Peter and Maria Koretzky, Feb 2005

"What a beautiful and magical Home! It was my first time on St John and I can see why my friends come every year. There is a special energy here. Between the water, the stars, the music and the rum, this was by far my most memorable vacation."

-Eileen Duffy, Dec 2004

"We found Sanctuary on the internet and thought it looked perfect. When we arrived we found it was even better than expected. Snorkeling in the bay was so much fun. We loved having the ocean so close to our door."

-Keith and Carmon Hill, May 2004

"To actually be here and enjoy this beautiful island and your wonderful Sanctuary is truly a week not to be forgotten. We thoroughly cherished every minute and every awesome view. Your home is so lovely and so comfortable and inviting. We have taken away an unforgetable memory, and we thank you."

-The Haucks, April 2004

"What a very special place you've created at Sanctuary. It truly made our time on St John something we will never forget. Kayaking across Rendezvous Bay, gazing across the Caribbean to St Croix, or soaking up the sun on Sanctuarys decks are some of our memories. Early morning sunrises with a cup of coffee and late afternoon sunsets with cocktails, we watched from the deck as cruise ships passed by knowing their accommodations paled to what we have at Sanctuary."

-The Ogilvies, April 2004

"Thanks so much for allowing us to experience St John in your lovely home. The views and the house itself were incredible and made for a very relaxing stay. St John was absolutely perfect and staying at Sanctuary made it 10 times better. Sanctuary is my dream home."

-Breanna Champion, April 2004

"We had a wonderful recharging and invigorating week at Sanctuary. From the ever-swooping pelicans to the early morning kayaking across the bay, it was all perfect. I loved being amused by geckos and hummingbirds. The house is elegant and tranquil, the plantings gorgeous and the view sublime."

-The Laitys, March 2004

"The pictures of Sanctuary on the internet don't do it justice. The views are the best I've ever seen. Sanctuary is the perfect family retreat."

-David and Lauren Birmingham, March 2004

"This was our 4th trip to St John and definitely my most memorable. John and I celebrated our marriage here, and Sanctuary was the perfect setting. Being able to stay at the villa for the wedding and honeymoon kept us stress free. I always dreamt of my perfect wedding and your home exceeded all my wildest dreams. I can't thank you enough for opening Sanctuary to us."

-Heather and John Bowers, Feb 2004

"Thank you for a wonderful week in your beautiful home. The views are spectacular! We've stayed in many other homes on the island but have never been provided with so many extras. This is by far the most incredible Villa we've stayed in and can't wait to come back."

-Levine Family, January 2004

"We loved staying in your beautiful new home. You've done a wonderful job with everything, including your charming details. We hope we are blessed with the opportunity to visit again."

-Brad and Cindy Bendush, April 2003

"Thank you so much for allowing us to celebrate our wedding and honeymoon in such a grand location with unparalleled beauty. We enjoyed your truly good taste in movies, books, and music, as well as your skilled craftsmanship in stone work. There is simply no better way to experience our first trip to St John. We are sure it will not be our last."

-Steve and Cheryl Wise, May 2003

"Sanctuary is beautiful, peaceful, quiet; Zen-like in its simplicity but attention to the little details. Beautiful sunny days interspersed with quiet thin rain. The native sounds and smells. St John is something special."

-Steve Kairys, June 2003

"We fell in love with St John and this beautiful home. Much good energy in the design and flow -- air, wind, sea. Town is much fun, funky, friendly. We had a great time driving to many different beaches, snorkeling, hiking in the National Park. Your hot tub under the stars at night is something special. Thanks for making the perfect home away from home."

-John K

"Ed and CJ -- Thank you for opening your beautiful home. Grant and I will never forget it. Sanctuary has such wonderful detail. We hope to come back."

-Rainie and Grant Carson, June 2003

"It's hard to put into words how great our stay was in Sanctuary. It was a perfect location, close to Cruz Bay but also nestled in an ultra private part of St John. The design of your home and amenities were fabulous! The family thoroughly enjoyed all that St John has to offer; snorkeling, hiking, baking in the sun, eating, drinking, kayaking, and simply creating good memories. Thanks so much for opening up your home to us and we hope to return soon."

-Frank Petrilli and Family, July 2003

"Ed and CJ, I just had to add -- this was the first trip in a long time with the whole family -- we could not have picked a better home to stay in. We loved everything about it. Pool and hot tub at night were beautiful. The views (we went kayaking to Ditliff Point) were beautiful, and the snorkeling -- as well as in front of Sanctuary. The sound system is awesome and the grill -- very cool!!! I love all of the harmony with nature that your house provides, very good 'chi'."

-"Mom" Petrilli