balthy

We went to Negril during March few years back. It was slightly too cold for us, the water was cool, air temps comfortable but could have been a few degrees warmer. Based on that experience, I would not go back to Jamaica, T&C, Bermuda or anywhere like that between Jan-Apr. Snorkelling is not great in Jamaica. Grand Cayman would be a great option, warm, great snorkelling, beaches are beautiful, good dining choices. West Coast of Barbados is the best area of the island, south and south east of the island has rough seas. OK for walking on the beach but not ok if you want to swim. Anguilla & St Barts would be great choices but they do not fulfill the criteria of easy/short journey from NJ. Places that require more effort to get to can be more rewarding however.

ldatt22

Thst must've been where you went with other couples (thought it was hawaii). They were all 60? Interesting. I liked Rick's a lot. The seven mile beach was nice but a lot of street oeddlers.

suze

No of course everyone wasn't 60 -haha- but a few significant birthdays is what got the reunion trip idea started.

The thing about 7 mile beach is to be at a hotel or beach club for the day, not sitting out on the public beach stretch. That is if you want to avoid vendors approaching you (assuming that's what you mean by "street peddlers"?). I was at Charela Inn and the vendors were only allowed to approach if you signalled for them to come over (which I did to buy banana bread!). There was hotel staff sitting discretely to the side keeping an eye on things.

eastenderusvi

The US Virgin Islands (St.Thomas, St.John, and St.Croix) are not all-inclusive destinations. I agree with RoamsAround, resorts in Mexico, the DR, and Jamaica would suit you.

balthy

I would not suggest DR to anyone, let alone for a honeymoon. Several beaches and hotels are on the Atlantic side, rough waters. Thats the least of the issues. Jamaica would be ok if you don't mind risking the water temps if going early in the year (ie Jan to Apr).

There is no need to limit options fo so-called AI destinations. Several islands who do not come under the category of AI destinations have hotels that offer AI meal plans as well as having dedicated AI hotels. Antigua has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, white sand and blue water. Same with Barbados, also has several hotels with AI options. Grenada has several great hotels eg Spice Island Resort (AI), right on Grand Anse beach. St Lucia is also an option but the sand might not be white enough. Ti Kaye used to offer AI option, it has a lovely beach although you need to climb down many step to get to it. Anse Chastanet hotel is on a stunning beach with sparkly sand and an area for snorkelling. AI option is available at this hotel.Lots of options.

suze

I also am no fan of the Dominican Republic. I've only been there twice (Sosua for a month, Puerta Plata & Santo Domingo the other trip) but it's one of the few places I've vacationed that I would not return to.

Has anyone suggested Hawaii? Have you been there?

schmerl

Since they requested "As little traveling from NJ to the destination as possible", I still think the Mexico's Riviera Maya is a good location. Again, look into Royal Hideaway Playacar. Very low key adults only all inclusive on a beautiful beach. Great service and good food.

suze

Ah good point. And yes Mayan Riviera is definitely worth considering. If they want "an island" could check out Isla Mujeres or Cozumel.

I've not been to "the other side" of Mexico yet as I frequent Puerto Vallarta, but those places look very interesting.

mlgb

Frenchman's Cove back in the day was FABULOUS. The beach still is, the hotel, apparently not so much.

Managing the Corona situation and researching quality of hospitals would be a BIG factor in my planning.

pja1

We like the look of Palm Heights on Grand Cayman.

mlgb

Isn't that going to be a bit over the budget once you get outside of hurricane season?

The Caymans would meet your criteria other than budget, if you want to be on the water. Assuming of course that they will no longer have a 14-day quarantine and open up travel to outsiders by the time you go.

ldatt22

Puerta Vallerta is one of the most popular places to visit!


Lynn

mlgb

Cozumel really doesn't have any sandy beaches, it's more of a snorkel/dive place.

I try not to comment on places I've never been. Not sure of the situation on Mujeres sandy beaches considering they were hit by Hurricane Delta, as was Cancun/Playa.

The big resorts on the mainland Caribbean coast have more resources for sand restoration. Be sure to check out the timing of the Sargassum season which is generally from May to September.

I've been to Puerta Vallarta twice and it really isn't white sand country. It appeals more to people who like to drink and party but you can find ocean views. More like California beaches than Caribbean soft white coral sand.
I don't think it's worth travelling there from New Jersey. You may as well go to Fort Lauderdale. Honestly, I'd rather go to Acapulco!!

eastenderusvi

Okay. These are the desires of the OP. They aren't interested in learning about the island they visit. They don't want a do-it-yourself vacation. Like many first timers, they want to sit on a beach, go to a "show", have someone fix them a frou-frou drink at the pool bar, etc. I don't like the DR. I don't like Jamaica, either, but these and Mexico would fulfill their desires and probably their pocketbook.

suze

{been to Puerta Vallarta twice ... It appeals more to people who like to drink and party}

Simply not true. That is an incorrect generalization. Old Town PV is very laid back. There aren't even "resorts" there. I've been to Puerto Vallarta 30+ times and I never "drink and party". But I do agree it doesn't fit this request because: (1) not white sand beaches (2) not an island (3) not easy to get to from New Jersey.