tbrendel

Hello,
Just looking for some advice on which Caribbean Island my wife and I should visit. We are currently choosing between Guadeloupe, Bequia, Dominica, Martinique, or St Lucia. We have already been to St Lucia for our honeymoon, but didn't leave the resort that much because they told us it was dangerous (I think they just wanted our money, but what do I know). We would entertain going back.
The reason we are choosing those Islands are because our friends are sailing for 10 months and will be stopping at one of these Islands as we want to meet up with them.
So, we are in our 30's and have kids (who will not be going) and want to get away. We are looking for a nice hotel on a beautiful beach to hang out on (with a tiki bar) and maybe some nightlife after dinner. We don't want it to be touristy, if you know what I mean. We also, would like to walk through town to experience local shops and food. Who doesn't like to eat? We also like to fish, snorkel and we are up for adventures. I could be explaining every Island, but thought I would hear some suggestions. We are looking for a laid back spot, but still a place with some activity. Thanks!!

RoamsAround

A few questions that might help us guide you:

When will you be making this trip?

Where will you be flying from?

How long are you willing to travel to reach your destination?

Are you willing to take one or more connecting flights and/or a ferry to reach your final destination?

Do you have any budget restrictions?

Other things to consider:

Dominica was seriously damaged by the recent hurricanes with may roads becoming impassable and numerous hotels being closed. It could be some time before things get back to normal. No night life.

Bequia is a very small island and a little difficult to get to without multiple connecting flights. There is only one small town on the island and it has very little shopping. Also, not noted for having a lot of nightlife.

None of the islands you mentioned are noted for having great snorkeling.

Both Martinique and Guadalupe are French islands so it would help if you could at least speak a little (say High School level) French.

The Caribbean economy is based on tourism so not sure what you mean it being "not touristy" Perhaps you can elaborate your concerns.

tbrendel

Thanks for your reply.. We would like to fly out of Tampa, Fl and we are trying to go in early July. Moderate budget restrictions. $800 flt and maybe $200 a night in hotel. Yes we will take connecting flights, but it would just have to be within one day. We plan on going for 5 days.

It is ok we don't need to snorkel. Fishing? And yes, I realize the economy is driven by tourist. I guess I am just saying anything off the beaten path would be nice.

The people we are meeting speak fluent French.

Thanks again!

RoamsAround

If you connect through Miami or San Juan you probably can reach St. Lucia, Guadalupe or Martinique in one day. Be prepared foe a very early morning departure out of Tampa and a late afternoon/early evening arrival at you destination. Bequia and Dominica will most likely will entail an overnight stop so might not work if only going for 5 days.

You can do deep sea fishing on all the islands on you list.

Dominica will definitely be "off the beaten path" but as I previously mentioned may not have fully recovered from the devastation caused by recent hurricanes by early July. That island is in really tough shape right now.

In July $200/night will get you basic accommodations on all those islands.

By the way, St. Lucia is not an unsafe island so don't cross it off your list on that account.

Why don't you find out from your friends which island they recommend as they probably know your tastes and interests better than some strangers on a travel forum.

tbrendel

I did talk to my friends. They said Bequia.. Just not sure I have the time to get there.

Thanks