Jennifer

Trying to narrow down choices for a trip to somewhere in the Carribbean in March. I am overwhelmed at the options. My husband and I are mid 30's, active. Not sure if we should go the all inclusive route, rent a villa or stay at a small hotel. Too many choices - can't decide. I want a beach view room, pool and Josh wants to be able to rent a boat that he can take out. For ease of access, thinking either Jamaica or Bahamas but want to avoid mega-touristy, cruise-invasion areas. Heard water in the Bahamas in mid-March can be chilly so skewing towards Jamaica - specifically Negril. BUT.... not sure... Any suggestions much appreciated.

Sara

What about the Bitter End Yatch Club..?

Cassie

The touristy places are the cheapest, which is why they are the busiest. If you are looking at Jamaica, I'd suggest Negril. The cruise ships dock in Ocho Rios and the planes land in Montego Bay, so Negril is far enough away that you won't be burdened with day trippers. Plus, Negril is on Bloody Bay, so the water is calmer than in other areas of Jamaica. If you choose Negril, plan a 2 hour bus ride each way from the airport. Or you can take a turboprop from Montego Bay to Negril - it takes about 15 minutes. <BR> <BR>I personally prefer the all-inclusives in Jamaica - they meet you at the airport, haul you to the resort, and haul you back to the airport. Your meals, drinks, tips, and nonmotorized watersports are all included, so you don't need to carry much cash. There are 4-5 good all inclusives in Negril. Here are 4 that I know something about in no particular order. <BR> <BR>1. Grand Lido - probably the plushest place in Negril, and priced to match. Owned by Superclubs. No kids, but will take singles and couples. Have their own yacht for sunset cruises. Will need and tie and jacket for dinner sometimes. <BR> <BR>2. Hedonism - also owned by Superclubs. Great beach, can be a wild party time, but you will be surprised at the number of older folks there for the nude beach. Also no kids, just singles and couples. <BR>Very casual - no dressy clothes needed at all. <BR> <BR>3. Sandals - Couples only, on the same stretch of beach as Hedonism and Grand Lido. Will be more romantic, since there are no singles around. Nice pool. Will probably need a sundress or two, and some long pants for him at dinner, but tie and jacket probably not absolutely necessary. <BR> <BR>4. Swept Away - I think this has recently changed management, but it is reputed to be the best resort for watersport enthusiasists in Negril. Is also couples only, no kids. I don't know anything about the dress code. <BR> <BR>Hope this helps - go and have fun is the biggest thing.

Elizabeth

Jennifer, <BR> Cozumel is a good place. Not as crowded and wild (huge college crowd)as Cancun. The Reef Club (Club Isla) is very nice. On the southern end of the island...it is relatively new...has 2.5 miles of private beach...clean rooms... <BR>good food... entertainment and nearness to boats, scuba excursions. <BR>The town...San Miguel is a funky little town. No big deal. <BR>However , there are some great shops. <BR>Silver jewelry is plentiful and prices are good. <BR>Very little panhandling...unlike Jamaica. <BR>The scuba diving and snorkelling is great. Places like Chankanaab Lagoon and Palancar Reef are especially good. <BR>The weather is fabulous and the water <BR>temperature in March is usually about <BR>80-85'. <BR> Let me Know if you need more info. <BR> Elizabeth <BR> [email protected] <BR>

Joe Raphael

Jennifer, you have better choices than those like the Virgin Islands, and the British Virgins(virgin Gorda). If you insist on Jamaica Negril and an all inclusive is the answer. Unfortunately travel outside is not recommended by me. Jamaica has serious racial problems that you don't need during a vacation. People asking for a handout and agressive selling are too commonplace. Cozumel and Playa del Carmen nearby are good choices. The Cayman Islands are a safe water and weather coice. Many islands in the Bajamas are fine. The waters will be about 5 degrees cooler than the Caribbean and Mexico.Do your homework.