Has anyone had any experiences with HomeAway/VRBO/AirBnB ?

mentaloriental

SBH Member
Going back to St. Barths in March and was wondering if anyone has had a good (or bad) experience using HomeAway/VRBO or AirBnB? I won't be wiring money to anyone.. but do feel more secure with agencies as an intermediary.

Previously I've only used SiBarth and WIMCo, both whom I've only had good experiences with.

While I haven't done a thorough search yet, I've already found one villa on HomeAway where the price is actually higher than what I calculated through a local agency. :confused:

Looking to see if they may have a wider inventory.. a few places I've stayed at in the past are already unavailable for our travel dates!
 
We are using Airbnb for the sixth time traveling to St. Barth. Every experience has been perfect. I used VRBO for one trip a few months after Irma. I had to wire money, but only did so after an on island friend verified the person for me.

I have also used Wimco to rent a few villas and each experience was excellent.
 
airbnb, the way to go if you are interested in a great villa and price. you can always negotiate directly with the owner and its guaranteed by airbnb, if the place is not as advertised, airbnb will refund your money and find you a new place. its a win win. the agencies are good also, you will pay more normally through an agency, but they will escort you to the villa and make sure all your needs are taken care of.
 
You can also deal with the owners direct. I have with 3 villas and have perfect experiences with all. CEC; Bijoiu; and La Doarde. I recommend all three.
 
Thanks for all the feedback!

Just found out we'll be in St. Barths during the Bucket Regatta... perhaps why many of places are booked. Interesting finds on AirBnB I must say. Also found some options on MyVillaInStBarths.com though many of the agencies more or less carry the same inventory- give or take.
 
Thanks for all the feedback!

Just found out we'll be in St. Barths during the Bucket Regatta...

aaahhhhhhhhh, the Bucket! A great time on the island, with a variety of entertainment / amusement options. If you haven’t “done” it before, I recommend that you search “Bucket” on the Forum. You’ll find so much about people & the good times of this celebration. One recommendation . . . dinner reservations! Enjoy!
 
Top