This was our second time staying at Sago and it will always be very special to us. During our most recent trip I proposed to my now fiancee and we had a perfect week! Our travel to St. John was a mess but a simple call to Susan and her staff was enough to make sure that the ride from the airport, ferry, rental car, and lodging were all still perfectly arranged for a smooth first night on the island. What could have been a horrible start to our vacation was made very simple thanks to Susan, Warren G Taxi, Diane, Margaret and the whole team at Calabash.
Sago offers a beautiful view of the east end of St. John, Norman Island, Coral Bay, and the Hurricane Hole. The cottage is uniquely positioned close to the Salt Pond trails and snorkeling areas as well as north shore road and Anaberg ruins. Grocery shopping should be done at the starfish market when you arrive but you can always visit Louis at the Love City Market in Coral Bay or the Calabash Market. We particularly enjoyed spending time at Skinny Legs and snorkeling Waterlemon Bay. Aqua Bistro is an excellent restaurant with an outstanding bar. The Ram's Head Trail is also close by and is a hot but rewarding hike. In past trips we also enjoyed the morning yoga at Concordia but unfortunately this was closed during our most recent visit. Apparently many things open in mid-November for the "season".
If planning to stay at Sago, make sure to reserve a vehicle with 4WD. This is a MUST and also opens up the island for exploring. I personally love driving on the island but have to remember to KEEP LEFT! The road up to the cottage from salt pond road is very steep and the turns into dirt/gravel. There are two paved switch-backs before you get to the cottage and it helps to switch out of 4WD to make these turns (and go easy on your vehicle's transmission). I have never had trouble on the roads, even in moderate rain, just go slow and make sure to utilize your 4WD!
The sunrise from this cottage is breathtaking! When clear at nighttime (usually a few hours after sunset), it is nice to enjoy the night sky from the spa (while also avoiding mosquitos and no see ums). I would recommend utilizing the mosquito repellant incense or candles while in the spa or outdoor shower. The indoor fans and mosquito netting help prevent these pests while inside and sleeping. Be prepared for morning visits from "sneezy" the friendly island cat and local donkeys.
