My wife and I will celebrate our 25 wedding anniversary in July '05. Maybe its early but I am beginning to think about where we should go. I would like to re-new our vows on a quiet beach at sunset or something. We like sightseeing, sitting poolside and/or on the beach, eating and drinking at fine restaurants, shows and dancing but we don't snorkel, horseback ride or play golf. Keep me away from casinos. Would consider a cruise or flying to an island and island hopping via local yacht rental w/crew. Previous experience includes one week stay in Bermuda twenty years ago (had a nice time). Any suggestions?

Barbados sounds perfect for you. My husband and I celebrated our 25th there and it was wonderful -- a special meal and cake at Carambola - spectacular setting. Start checking it out at the Tourism Board website at:
www.barbados.org
If you are interested I have put together a tips sheet based on 17 trips there that might be helpful if you serious decide to go. You can write me at: [email protected] and I'll send it along to you.

Lois

Hey Jollyroger,

Aloha!!!!????

Thanks but I hear Hawaii is expensive. Wouldn't I get a better value in the Carribean as I live on the east coast?

If your budget allows, I say go for a crewed yacht. There are a lot of great places to sail -- the British Virgin Islands, the Abacos, the Grenadines. Once you choose one, you'll have no trouble selecting an appropriate beach to renew your vows ... White Bay on Jost Van Dyke in the BVI, Tahiti Beach on Elbow Cay in the Abacos, Saltwhistle Bay on Mayreau in the Grenadines -- just a few suggestions.

Your crew will take you from one amazing location to another, based on your wishes and desires. Since one of the crew is typically a trained chef, you'll have great meals prepared for you (made to your taste) -- and they'll be happy to take you to great restaurants (or bars, or shopping, etc.) as well. And you can do as much on the boat as you like -- or nothing.