I am looking to cash in some points for a Caribbean vacation. Where the best Hilton, Marriott, or Sheraton Hotel in the Caribbean, considering beach quality, nightlife, activities, and amenities?

That's a pretty broad question considering the hotel chains you listed. I'm a big fan of Hilton. The Hilton Cancun resort is supposed to be awesome. I've got a VIP award stay planned for next January. 100,000 points for six nights....not bad.

I am only a Hilton and Marriott person.

I have used points at both San Juan properties of Hilton and Marriott. Both are very good, but I would give the nod to the Hilton. Marriott does have a casino if that matters. For the amount of outdoor activities, the history, and sophisticated dining, Puerto Rico is a great island, my favorite in the caribbean. Need ideas, just email me.

Hilton also has a property on St. Lucia. I posted a thread which asked the availability for this property using points. Most said it was difficult. If I remember correctly, those that said no problem were not going at peak times. From what I've gathered the resort is not near night life.

The Bahamas is not part of the Caribbean, BUT, I'll say that the British Colonial Hilton in Nassau was a very fun stay for us.
It is more regal and boutique like than the mega resorts, plus WAY WAY less people (I always like that!!!).

Plus, The Camino Real Mexican properties are now affiliated w/Hilton. They have a Cancun location, the rest are on the Pacific side of Mexico. see: http://www.caminoreal.com/hotels.htm

[This message has been edited by Sweet Willie (edited 08-29-2001).]

[This message has been edited by Sweet Willie (edited 08-29-2001).]

Here are some discussions about Aruba from the Marriott Forum.

Click below:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum63/HTML/000146.html

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum63/HTML/000321.html

http://www.marriott.com/epp/default.asp?MarshaCode=AUAAR