Rattan Inn - St. Croix, USVI

A stay at the Rattan Inn tucks you way up in the hills that serve
as St. Croix's backbone. It's almost as nice as staying in some
well-heeled friend's home.

Situated on an old estate that dates to before 1750, the inn
rambles about old stone ruins. It speaks of gracious living from an era
almost forgotten in today's hustly-bustly world. If you close your eyes,
you can probably conjure up images of frock-coated men and bejeweled
woman enjoying elegant meals produced on the estate by its complement of
slaves.

The inn's seven acres are lushly planted with palms and mature
flowering trees. Chaises placed about the property and around the pool
provide the perfect spot for whiling away an afternoon. Your view will be
the grounds or the distant sea.

Each of the five suites is different, with the decor reflecting
owner Infee Hong Covall's elegant taste. They all have fully-equipped
kitchens, air-conditioning, fans, and except for one cottage, ceramic tile
floors. Palm Cottage has vinyl tile underfoot.

The main building is really a three-bedroom house with a spacious
living room. Three suites have one or two bedrooms and living rooms. The
Pool House is a large studio.

Unless you only want to lounge while here, you really need a rental
car to get you out and about. A six-mile drive puts you in the island's
main town of Christiansted, where you'll find shopping, dining and day
trips to such sites as Buck Island National Monument. This is a must-see
sail to a small island off St. Croix's north shore, where you'll spend
the day snorkeling and hiking.

The Rattan Inn is located only about two miles from the Island
Center for the Performing Arts, St. Croix's premier venue for various
performances. Check with Covell to see who's playing while you're in town.