We've been to Anguilla 7 times and would like to try some place different this year...like the uncrowded, untouristy atmosphere of the place, along with the superb beaches and great dining...any suggestions?..no big luxury resorts for us...we like the small and picturesque

Provo, TCI

Negril, JA (off season)

Tulum, Akumal, MX

Out Islands, Bahamas

Virgin Gorda, BVI

Must look into this one, because we were looking for the same and were extremeley satisfied.

We just returned from our first trip to Anguilla, and we absolutely loved every moment. We stayed at a beautiful private villa, "Zebra" in Mead's Bay that has a pool, beautiful views, and a 2 minute walk to the beach. Housekeeping service available, Elaine is wonderful and accomodating. The villa was just as pictured (http://www.mycaribbean.com/rental/rentalview/659/1/41/) and has a separate guest house if you need it. It is close to great dining, Mallihouna, Blanchards, Altamer, E's Kitchen, and Tasty's to name a few.

If you want more info, feel free to email me. I am still on my Anguillian high...

Teraze

I am in agreement with Diana's choice of Virgin Gorda plus I would add Tortola also in the BVI

I8Ds, Our first trip to the Caribbean was Anguilla, and I must say it is still my favorite island. T&C comes close in terms of beaches and decent restaurants but I feel it lacks the privacy/isolated feel. VG I like because its very untouristy and quaint but the beaches are not as perfect as those on Anguilla (still nice and isolated). We've been to Abacos in the bahama out islands and the hotels are very basic and do not compare to the resorts on Anguilla (nice uncrowded beaches). If you are not looking for luxury resorts the bahama out islands may be your next best choice. Dining in Abacos is decent but does not compare to Anguilla. For decent dining look into Elbow Cay in Abacos. Hope this helps.

You might also consider Grenada. Two excellent beachside choices on Grenada are LaLuna (http://www.laluna.com/laluna.html) and La Sagesse (http://www.lasagesse.com/). Both LaLuna and La Sagesse are secluded beachfront properties with very good restaurants. LaLuna is significantly more expensive than La Sagesse but it has emerged as one of Grenada's most popular resorts.

Grenada itself is one of the prettier islands in the Caribbean and much less touristy than most other Caribbean islands.

For a long time our favorite experience was Anguilla. However, we tried Bequia two years ago and returned this year. Bequia is a small island in the Grenadines. The people are wonderful (just like Anguilla) and there are a variety or villas and accommodations plus some good restaurants, but not the quality of Anguilla. The beaches are very good and snorkeling better than Anguilla, plus opportunities for day trip to Tobago Cays or Mustique is a plus. We love Bequia!

ok so now that we got some Anguilla veterans in one place, where would you recommend staying in Anguilla for a family of 4 (kids 4,6).

Shoal Bay East is great for families -- a few more families than the rest and some inexpensive restaurants along the beach. Ku has some really nice off-season rates and has just been re-done. Quite nice!