We have rented many villas in many places around the world and Villa Monte Verde is perhaps tied as one of the best we have experienced! The descriptions were spot on and the additional information provided in advance was accurate.
The villa, which is a little over a year old, is furnished Euro Style, with all the amenities that anyone would need for a great week in SXM. (I loved the coffee/cappuccino/espresso station) Having been in the business, I was impressed with the quality of construction and the materials used to build and furnish. We were two, so obviously we enjoyed the space, but for those traveling with family or a group of friends, you could all enjoy the home with a sense of privacy due to the layout. The zero edge pool and landscaping made it hard for us to leave during the day and we really didn't. We like deserted beaches anyhow!
The villa sits in a new development, with as many as 37 homes to come, but only 3 built and one under way above. That being said, the engineering on the slope side lot affords ample privacy, as the "back yard" is basically where you spend your time around the zero edge pool, and with unobstructed views out to the Atlantic, St. Barts and a glimpse of Anguilla. The subdivision has a gated entry, as well as an individual electric entrance, each controlled by key fobs. The home also has electric shutters that come down with a touch of a button and a security system that lets you sleep in comfort.
For us the location was super. 20 minutes from the airport and Grand Marche Stores (much preferred over the Simply near the villa for price and variety). We are not night life types, but it was as near as you would like. The villa was perfectly located to enjoy the restaurants of Grand Case which was a highlight. Having thought of St. Barts as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, I stand corrected. Wtih two exceptions, one being a dinner pool side, we enjoyed 5 wonderful dinners on Grand Case's "restaurant row", with gourmet cuisine, great service, and warm hospitality. Tuesday "Madi Gras" night is a must.
Back to the villa...we had but one minor issue when rain tripped a breaker one evening, leaving some perimeter lighting out. One call to Raoul (owner/developer/manager), and he was at the villa within 10 minutes. His hands on approach also added to our confidence and pleasure with the villa.
We don't usually return to a villa in consecutive years, but we are already planning for next January!
