Wife and I are looking to visit the Caribbean for a few days in May, without our 2 year old. I've visited the locations with * previously (on business) and liked them, that's why I'm considering them again. We didn't like Cancun when we went in 2003- water too rough, more expensive than Miami, etc. Punta Cana D.R. beaches were beautiful but the food was a bit "European" for her tastes. Maybe we should try Puerto Plata. Any suggestions?

Aruba: have heard great things from people who've been there, esp. the casinos.
Barbados * : fondly remember the open bar nights at Harbor Lights!
St. John: Everyone raves about the Westin
Punta Cana D.R. *: great all-incl deals
Costa Rica * : technically not Caribbean since we'd be on the Pacific side. she's been there before and liked it. I've been to San Jose area a lot, but never to any beaches. Lots to see/do here.
Bermuda * : great place!

I have contacts in most of these places that can get me a "locals" room rate.

Thanks for your input!

Our favorite islands so far have been Aruba and St. Martin - highly recommend both

ARUBA... One Happy Island!!! The best

Nevis? Dominica? Puerto Rico?

or were you looking for suggestions/feedback only on the list you put forth?

I have visited most of these - however never been to Aruba...that being said - all I hear is great things about it. My pick would be Aruba!

I am partial to St. Bart's.

I'd love suggestions on other islands! But I shy away from Puerto Rico and Jamaica.

Aruba fans: which hotel for < $250/night?

Any thoughts on Antigua?

My wife & I actually prefer to stay in the low rise area. We love the Aruba Beach Club, a time share unit that has some weeks to rent out. I'd try them and see what they have available during time you want to be there... This place has a wonderful pool and the best beach on Aruba, in our opinion.

Don't go to St Martin - a horrid little island - nothing but ***** restaurants and sandy beaches - nothing else to do.

The worst place in the world to visit. They only have 34 beaches, some are even clothing optional (just imagine!).

But don't dispair, they have a KFC if you get hungry. If you're desperate, you might find a casino to pass the time.

DON'T GO TO ST MARTIN!

dbs
cupacoy beach - may 7th - 14

St. Thomas is very beautiful

^ ^

Has anyone heard anything more on the opening of the new Hilton in Barbados? Today I was checking the Hilton website and couldn't find anything about the new hotel. Last month I got a message saying reservations would be made for stays begining June 2005, but now the message says 'can't find any property there'. When I looked for new/upcoming/opening Hiltons, there's no mention of Barbados.

^^^

Can't go wrong with either one.

Aruba Marriott is a very nice hotel. Go for the condo side...

After Honeymooning there in the early 90's then going back 10 years later, I would have to agree, it is not the quaint little island that we enjoyed a long time ago. Skip this island, there are better out there.

We have always liked Antigua, as well as Anguilla. Another very pretty island is St. John in the USVI (would also suggest Virgin Gorda in BVI). Nice hotels in all places.

I'll throw in my $.02. Anguilla -- fabulous island, great beaches and restauarants. Not too crowded, not much night life. Check out www.cuisinartresort.com or www.capjuluca.com