Palms Court Harborview - St. John, USVI

Palms Court Harborview is one of St. Thomas' newer properties. It was a guesthouse for decades, but when businessman McCoy Webster took it over several years ago, he turned it into a spiffy six-room hotel on two stories. Since then, new construction has been completed and an additional 26 rooms were added along with 2 ballrooms.

Located in a nice residential neighborhood, the hotel has suites that include a living room, dining room, full kitchen and bedroom with a balcony overlooking Charlotte Amalie Harbor. Ceramic tile floors, ceiling fans, air-conditioning, rattan furniture and pastel spreads and curtains create a tropical mood. In addition to the usual maid service, the hotel provdes room and laundry service, unusual amenities in a property this size.

Guests gather around a spacious pool or if you prefer, you can hop a cab or take your rental car to the popular Magens Bay Beach. The Palms Court Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to both visitors and locals who enjoy its conviviality. Food is continental and West Indian style. The hotel often hosts meetings for local organizations, which can occasionally give the place a busy air.

While you're above the hustle and bustle that makes up St. Thomas, you're close enough to enjoy dinner out at one of Charlotte Amalie's restaurants or to stroll the streets of the historic city in search of the perfect souvenir to take home. And you're only a few minutes by car from the closest beach at Lindbergh Bay. The well-known Magens Bay is about 15 minutes away by car.