Help! Which Caribbean Island?

Show all answers

Scott B

We have been to most of the Caribbean, and every one has advantages and disadvantages based on what you describe for what you want.

We think the beaches of Aruba and Punta Cana / Dominican Republic are quite pretty. Aruba is safer than most and has some other nice features. But it is a mid-sized destination with limited nature activities, other than the usual water recreation such as snorkeling, boating, etc. DR has great all-inclusive resorts and is known for them. But you largely stay on the resort property, although there is plenty to do at all of them. Safety is more of an issue.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are quite commercialized, have plenty of shopping, some great snorkeling, etc. But don't go out at night. The British Virgin Islands are safer, less touristy and more quiet.

Barbados and St. Lucia are a little more difficult to reach. Both are quite pretty, have OK shopping, offer some decent resorts, etc. St. Lucia in particular has nice places to see.

Belize makes a better cruise visit than long-term stopover, but others might disagree. If you go, definitely check out the river cave tubing.

Cancun is a strong choice for a direct flight. The beaches aren't as good as other places because of hurricane damage, but it has plenty to do, easy access to restaurants, a decent degree of safety and many good hotels and all-inclusive resorts.

Since you are going to the Caribbean for the first time, I would recommend Punta Cana, Cancun or even a cruise to get the full experience of several islands.

Candyy ;]

How about Saint Martin or Siint Marteen?

GGB

Grand Cayman is yor choice- Direct flights - Clean and you feel like your in the USA still. The beachs and water are as comparable to St lucia and
Although I liked the Virgin island US and British they just dont compare to other islands - Cayman seven mile is great.. And its shorter trip that allows you to spend more time on the islands rather then in flight. Aruba is the place- my Favorite island is carasal..

jave271

I second the Turks and Caicos suggestion. It's a beautiful place that is laid back and just simply relaxing. Haven't been to Antigua yet.

The Bahamas are really nice as well.

Kristin

I would suggest St. Lucia. This is not as well known of an island for the typical American tourist. However, it has amazing things to do/see. They have I believe the only drive-in volcano, famous Piton mountains, zip-lining (not so much for the 60 year old's),botanicall gardens, horseback riding, etc. They have resorts such as Le Sport, Anse Chasnet (which is in the gorgeous Pitons), Sandals, etc. Nightlife is not a signature thing, so I wouldn't worry about that. St. Lucia is more for a laid-back vacation (but a bit more expensive on flights).

I'm sure you will have a great time whereever you choose.

Highly Favoured

Barbados is NOT difficult to reach. We are the hub of the Caribbean with many connecting flights to other islands in the Caribbean. Many large jets fly here as opposed to some other islands since their airports are too small and we can accommodate them.

All the things that you mention you will get here including safety, the best beaches, great facilities, and beautiful weather to name a few. Obviously there will be some showers but nothing to stop you from enjoying yourself.

Just because a place has a crazy nightlife that does not mean that it will not be ideal not that I am saying that here is like that. Our night life is rich that elder people can still enjoy. Obviously you do not want the clubs or discos bit there are still some places you all can go to. Some places that you can visit are Tropical Spectacular which is a dinner and floor show, Harbour Master is a pleasure cruise (dinner cruise) and Oistins. The best time to go to Oistins (fishing town in Christ Church) is a Friday night. You can go to have a meal of grilled fish, grilled potatoes and tartar Sauce (Fish Net Restaurant). Afterward you can go to the bar on the right Lexxie's and see the people dancing in the open air or inside. The folks can even join in as well since it is oldies music.

The hotels are quite safe so you should be able to leave them and go and enjoy yourselves.

I hope you consider choosing Barbados.

Allen H

In my opinion, St. Lucia has the best beaches....very nice, white sand, clear water, and not very many people...
St. Thomas had nice beaches but they were very very crowded.

Tyler I Shanick

I agree with the first guy, Antigua is a great place to be.

Someone

Try the Turks and Caicos Islands I live on the main island, Providenciales. Its great for all ages and super fun.

www.tciway.tc

retiredroadie

First of all, AVOID any country that is on the Yahoo list for the Caribbean... because that is where all the AmeriKans go since they don't know any better.. so Yahoo lists them

I live on my boat in Antigua for much of the year and I LOVE Bequia.. and am thinking of moving the boat to there.

Look at Antigua or Bequia/St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Most AmeriKans have never heard of them and they are as close to tropical paradises as you are likely to find in the Caribbean.

Avoid the crime riddled islands such a Jamaica. Of the Trinidad/Tobago islands, my personal choice is Tobago if you are looking for a great, scenic island with great beaches.

Enter Your Message or Comment

User Name:
User Email:
Post a comment: