Just wanted to post an update to my earlier post where I received some good feedback from fodorites. The Aruba feedback was helpful in steering my friends away from the Marriott. We were almost ready to book JFK to Barbados Hilton based on flights times, cost, activities and a desire to go to a new island that none of us had visited. I was not sold on the Hilton however (looks very boxy and has zero caribbean charm). Crane was in our budget, nicer, but I the beach looks too rough for our young ones. Other hotes were either significantly higher (fairmont/sandy lane) or were sold out for our dates. I happended to do a search on Grand Cayman on expedia and the Westin priced slightly lower and flights were more conviniently out of Newark. So although we were in the Caymans this past April (we stayed at a villa in the Rum point area) I think we are leaning towards a repeat visit. We enjoyed 7 mile beach (its a bit developed but the beach/water is pristine and the snorkelling was wonderful as well) and the many restaurants the island has to offer. Just wanted to provide an update on our tentative decision after lots of hours spent on pricing out various options...