I have surfed most of the topics and looking for any helpful recommendations on an all-inclusive resort somewhere in the Caribbean for April 14-20 this year. Based on research to date, I am considering a Sandals Grande resort (not sure which one but they appear to be highly rated), Sandals Whitehouse (personal recommendations from frieds), Iberostar in Dominican Republic (Domincan Republic appears to be good value for what we want based on list below) or Cancun (Live Aqua Cancun for one).
Any feedback would be appreciated. Here is what we are looking for and what we don't necessarily need (we are looking at 5-6 nights, would like to stay around $3,500 for two with air from Detroit)
What We Want
1) All inclusive in the Caribbean, adults only
2) Good beach
3) As much luxury as we can afford (nice property/hotel)
4) Great food
5) Prefer to be relatively close to airport (30-45 min max). I previously stayed at resort that was 1-1/2 - 2 hours away from airport and that was not pleasant.
6) Swim up pool bar (I know, kind of cheesy but I love them!) or waiter/conceirge service ar the beach
Not Important
1) Don't care what island/country. A single desolate island or major strip in Cancun are both okay if they meet considerations above.
2) Not interested in surrounding area or tourist attractions - we won't leave the property
3) Nightlife / entertainment either on or off property. Dinner and drinks after is all we need, don't need a club/disco/stage show
4) Shopping district - again, we won't leave the property
5) Spa - added bonus if they have it, but don't need it and won't include in consideration
6) Golf - added bonus if they have it, but don't need it and won't include in consideration
7) Water sports
In short, looking for a nice beach/luxurious hotel/good food and the rest is less important.
Thank you in advance, I would appreciate any suggestions.
All Inclusive Caribben Resort for mid-40's Honeymooners
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The hotels you listed will all met your criteria. We have been to many AI resorts and our criteria is what we can see and do on the Island. It you want to camp out at your resort, than the DR would probably be the best destination for that. Not much else to see and do off property or Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma, which has a nice golf course. When you decide to actually get off the resort and enjoy the destination, than the other choices would be better.
I consistantly defend AI resorts on this forum. Not very many of the regular posters like them or will recommend them. One of the reasons being is people who chose an AI resort to camp out at and not actually see the destination, which is a real shame. You can do that anywhere and get the same results.