Caribbean trip advice? (rent, crime rates, hotel)

[NatasNJ]

My wife and I are trying to plan a trip to the Caribbean but have no idea on which island fits us the best. I have read up a ton on things and am still not sure I am sold on any one island/resort over another. So I am trying to tap other peoples trip experience to help me focus my trip into a solid direction...

Looking for a romantic place (ideally no children around).
Not sure if all inclusive is a + or -.
Want Crystal clear water, Something special.
Ideally some type of eco-kayak tour attraction.
Anything animal (dolphins, iguna's, etc..) is a +. Especially if unquie.
Something relaxing but offers plently to do. (if that makes sense)
Something not run down or poor outside resort walls.

[Jerseyt719]

Judging by your criteria, I can only tell you not to go to Jamaica. Good luck on your vacation.

I always wanted to go to Bermuda and I've heard Aruba is great as well.

[NatasNJ]

Originally Posted by Jerseyt719

Judging by your criteria, I can only tell you not to go to Jamaica. Good luck on your vacation.

I always wanted to go to Bermuda and I've heard Aruba is great as well.

Why not Jamaica? What on my list kills that?

[Jerseyt719]

"Something not run down or poor outside resort walls"

WOW was this the case when I went to Ocho Rios. AND I had a 2+ hour bus ride from he#@ from the airport to the resort, so I got a chance to see a bit of Jamaican life on the way and I can honestly tell you, I'll never go back.

It was really unsafe when we left the resort to explore.

[RobRiguez]

I'll add a +1 to Bermuda especially if you like diving. BUT It is a very expensive island. Pink sand beaches, A++ golf courses, amazing restaurants. If you dont mind/like riding a scooter you can rent one for not too much and it opens up your ability to see the entire island.

Cayman is another place I absolutely love. Ive been there 6-7 times already (for work) and I always jump at the chance to go again. Nice nightlife if you enjoy clubs and such. Most hotel bars are party central. Awesome Dolfin and Turtle experiences and they have what they call Luminescent Bay. The algea and the coral and such that eat the algea are bioluminescent. Its an awesome sight.

There are a couple little islands off Puerto Rico and the Bahamas that are great fun (again especially for diving) but not for more than a day trip. Turks and Caicos, St Lucia, Antigua to name a few.

[Mattie]

Unfortunately, MOST of the Caribbean is plagued by poverty outside the resorts. That doesn't mean it isn't safe to visit and sightsee though. We've been to many islands. St Lucia has a rain forest, as does Puerto Rico (and Jamaica, but crime is rampant). Antigua was always our favorite in the past, but crime rates are rising there. I love Bermuda, my husband found it boring, since he isn't into golf. Aruba is flat, and windy. Not too much to see off the beaches. For the past couple of years we've gone to french St. Martin. We still feel safe walking around most of the island, but we are into beaches more than sightseeing. I would advise you to read reviews of various places on TripAdvisor.com. I've found that sight to be more realistic than even using a travel agent. There are great deals right now!

[Jerseyt719]

I'll second trip advisor. It's a really great site and you'll get tons of reviews.

[rue2323]

I would recommend ARUBA. I was there this past summer and would go back every year if i could. The people the food and the beaches are amazing. I would check out Liberty Travel they are running a special 50% off at the Wyndham Aruba. The Westin, Hyatt, Marriott and Occidental are all excellent choices as well.

[Calico696]

Barbados, Cayman Islands, Aruba, Bermuda or St. John would be my suggestions.

[Latina7]

Originally Posted by rue2323

I would recommend ARUBA. I was there this past summer and would go back every year if i could. The people the food and the beaches are amazing. I would check out Liberty Travel they are running a special 50% off at the Wyndham Aruba. The Westin, Hyatt, Marriott and Occidental are all excellent choices as well.

Sure, to bring in the tourist, since that honor student from Alabama on a school trip disappeared from there, and her body has never been recovered, even when there was a 2 million bounty on her disapperance, Alabama has been boycotting Aruba.......for the longest.