My husband and I are looking to book a 10th anniversary trip in March. We'd like somewhere with a beautiful beach, but also a walkable, safe town with different restaurants to try. He's more of a city vacationer, I prefer a relaxing beach, so we'd love somewhere with a little of both. We went to Puerto Rico for our 5th Anniversary and it was great, but we'd prefer to see something new and different this time.

Our other requirement is somewhere easy to get to from the US (in particular the DC area). We only have ~5 days, so we'd like to minimize travel time.

We were strongly leaning towards St. Thomas, but after reading recent reviews about crime, I'm thinking it might not be a good idea.

I appreciate any help/advice you have!

Thanks!

I'm not understanding why you wouldn't want to go to St. Thomas, which has all you're looking for. You won't be staying in Charlotte Amalie. You'll just be walking around and going in for dinner.

You could go to St. John instead. People seem to love Cruz Bay, but even it has some crime. But you'll have fewer options for lodging since there are only a few resort hotels on the island and most people rent homes or condos.

Check out Grand Cayman that has very nice restaurants and a 'town' but not the culture you would find in PR. Alternatively look at Curacao which has cove like beaches and nice town to explore. Another choice may be St Croix. I'm certain though the latter two would require connecting flights

Would you consider Mexico?

Playa del Carmen (easier flights for you), Cabo San Lucas on the Baja, and Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast, all have what you request.

I would suggest St. Barts or Bermuda. Both are beautiful islands and have lovely beaches. Bermuda has a beautiful small European feeling city with many fine restaurants. St. Barts would be warmer in March.

Bermuda also crossed my mind but it certainly will be to cold to go into the water in March. If you can defer your trip until the summer months Bermuda would be a great fit.

I also think the Playa del Carmen area of Mexico would be perfect for what you are looking for. Nice town, good beaches, lots of food choices.