dale88

Hello again all fabulous fodorites! We've taken your advice and booked a trip to Anguilla, staying at the last room available at Cap Juluca. We're going this Sunday March 5th for six nights (first trip in five years, no small kids, just my husband and I. Hooray!)

So here's what I need to know:
1) Will I need bug spray and what's a good deet-free bug spray that works (if any)?
2) Which restaurants/bars/bands (a mix of top dollar and low-key fun hangouts) are not to be missed and on what nights? (Very bummed we will arrive too late to do Sunday at Scilly Cay)
3) Anything else that we must see/do/experience while we're there?
4) How do we call the States?
5) Do you just bring a lot of cash, or use credit cards for meals, getting around etc.
6) I love and need your travel tips--it's been so long since I've gone anywhere I feel clueless! So feel free to give me an earful! Thanks!

family4travel

Greetings Dale,
Congratulations on your romantic getaway! My hubby and I haven't traveled sans kids since they were born. Next year we celebrate our 10th Anniversary, and he thinks it's time for a couples-only trip. But I digress...

Our family is traveling to Anguilla for the first time this Spring, so I can't help you with most of your questions. However, I just read about this DEET-free insect repellent called Skedattle. I've copied/pasted a portion of a previous post I wrote...

"Regarding the insect repellent. I tend to get bitten. I suppose it's just my body's chemistry. Insects never seem to bite my husband and younger child. However, my older child is sometimes affected. I just read about a product called Skedattle that is supposed to be an all-natural repellent that is just as effective as those with DEET. I avoid hairspray, perfume, scented soaps and lotions on vacation, but I still get bitten. I'm going to purchase some of this Skedattle and see whether it works for us. It contains 4 ingredients that are supposed to be natural repellents to insects: peppermint oil, lemongrass oil, vanilla oil and citronella. If anyone has tried this product, I would appreciate your input."
Not sure whether this product is available in stores, but I've seen a few web sites that sell it. Since you're leaving this weekend I don't know whether you'll have time to order it. If you do, please post whether it works for you.

Regarding question #4. All the Caribbean countries I've visited have instructions on dialing the U.S. documented in the in-room literature. Read the instructions and contact the front-desk if you have any questions regarding service charges applied by the resort. If you have a calling card, call your provider BEFORE leaving home to determine the charges and to inquire what is the best way (okay, cheapest way) to call the U.S.

Enjoy your special time together. Can't wait to read your trip report. Cheers!

MaryD

We have always used Mosquito Milk, a roll-on available in Anguilla (Belgian-made). It gives 8 hour protection against mosquitoes & sand fleas. We've found in Anguilla that we only need the stuff in late afternoon/evening -- no bug problems on the beaches during the day.

ALR

I second the recommendation for Mosquito Milk which, last time I checked, was available in the gift shop at Cap Juluca.

HowardC

We also use Mosquito Milk. Entertainment--At Cao there should be a copy of What we do in Anguilla which lists entertainemnt each night. There is a live band at Mangos on Mon and Thurs. Dumpa plays at Altamer on Tuesday. There is live entertainment at The Pumphouse in Sandy Ground Wed thru Sat or Sun. Check and see if Sprocka still plays at Scilly Cay on Wed or you can catch him at his new restaurant near the airport. Don't know where Boss and Friends are playing now but he's very good. Don't miss the Happy Hits if they are palying while you are there. Suggest a rental car rather than taxis to get around. Cheaper in the long run and driving is easy. We use Carib Rent a Car. They will deliver to cao and you can leave the car at the ferry or airport when you leave. 264-497-6020. I usually use cerdit cards but also bring some cash and travelers checks. Have fun. You might also want to check out www.anguillaforum.com for info

newyorkergal

If you are sitting on the beach, make sure you sit in front on Villas 1-3. Terrance takes care of that end and he is awesome.

If you like to walk, bring flashlights for nightime.

I never had a problem with bugs so I cannot help there.

Credit cards were accepted all over the island.

I'm missing Picante the most.

jlillberto

We stayed at CuisinArt last month and they had "Off" in the rooms but we never needed it.

A car pays for itself very quickly. We used Avis and they deliver and pick-up. Think all the car rental agencies do.

I agree about Picante. We went twice!
It's not far from CJ and is very reasonable, price-wise.

Have fun and report when you're back!