NJRoberts

My fiance and I are getting married in July and have been looking in the Caribbean for a great honeymoon spot. We have been going back and forth between Anguilla and TCI. We decided on Anguilla but after seeing the flight and room cost, it is out of our budget. (I'm in grad school not working so he is the only source of income- we are also paying for the wedding ourselves and have to make every dollar stretch!). We really liked what we saw on TCI and have checking out the websites for info. I have a few questions- sorry if this seems long. We are looking at Leeward Hotel (I think it is called ) previously Nikki beach, and Villa del Mar. We like that Leeward has a rental car included, but don't like that all the pictures seem right there at the marina. The hotel seems a bit out of the way and I don't know that I would want to stay in a hotel with just a few other guests. As far as Villa del Mar we really like it. It's within our price range and the reviews have been great! We would get the full kitchen so we can keep groceries.
My question is this, has anyone stayed at either hotel and what did you think of them?
We don't mind walking to Grace Bay which we would at VDM, and we like that it is closer to things. We would also be renting a car. At VDM we would be getting a night free. Our budget for flight & hotel is $2,500 which is really good (for us.) Looking at some of the other islands (All-inclusive) we were looking at paying over $4,000 and we just can't afford that. Just wanted any feedback if anyone has stayed at either Leeward or Villa del Mar. We will be booking our vacation this weekend.

Thanks in advance!

Caribzack

VDM for sure ...100% Leeward Resort is DEAD , small man made beach..VDM has beach chairs on Grace Bay and an employee on the beach to help you! We have not stayed at either ( always the Somerset ) but, have checked out VDM for friends.

NJRoberts

Thanks!!! I think that is what we are leaning toward. Also one more thing- does anyone know if we need to get any vaccinations before we go? Having worked in a hospital and now in the school system, I am up to date on all my shots, but my fiance is not. Would you recommend him getting the Hep B series and a Tetanus shot as well?

Thanks!

Caribzack

Never got shots , none required!

KVR

Just wanted to throw in the Sibonne on Grace Bay. We had the same budget. Cute boutique hotel with 26 rooms. Very quite. The Alexandra was within the same budget also and had more amenties and a better pool.

I agree, never got shots for any Island we've been to.

blamona

VDM is excellent, with an awesome bed, very upscale, you'd never know you're on a budget. The only tradeoff of course, is not being directly on the beach. (1/2 minute walk)

I have stayed at both resorts. Both are really nice. I think Leeward Resort is better once you're familiar with T&C. First timers really need to stay at Grace Bay. It's too stunning to stay away, and if you stayed at Leeward, you'd have to pack chairs, umbrellas, etc-- too much work until you're used to the island! just my opinion.

No shots needed. Tap water is perfectly safe. IGA supermarket has awesome deli, rotissorie chcikens, salads, etc. Actually with Fodors In Focus: Turks and Caicos, (which I wrote! ;-) ) there is a "box" that says how to visit on a budget-without breaking the bank.

Caribzack

Sibonne is a basic . older motel...for a honeymoon I would NOT stay there...VDM is still the best bet. AND...yes, pick up Fodors in Foucus: Turks & Caicos, it is EXCELLENT!

NJRoberts

Blamona I have looked at your pictures (showed the sweetie) and LOVED THEM!!!! We are getting really excited about going- we book this weekend. We will be flying from Nashville with a layover in Charlotte. It's the cheapest and I heard Miami is a nightmare. Our wedding is in July and we are leaving 2 days after. I have read what others have said and realize I MUST pack less.
Question- does VDM have w/d in the room? I read on here that they did, but didn't see anything on the website.

Thanks again all! When we retuen I will post pictures.

Can't wait!

sunblockstock

I certainly would pick VDM over Leeward Resort due to the location.
VDM is tucked away behing the Grace Bay Club and allows a beach area for VDM guests.
Just steps awazy from the beach and we have viewed the property on a couple of our trips.
Totally go with VDM.
Better location on a much better beach !
sbs