We are planning on getting married next year in the Carribean. I think we are leaning towards Antigua - probably Sandals. It seems to have a lot of the things we are looking for. Does anyone know about the casinos - how are they? Is there craps? Also, any opinions on putting your money into a nicer room rather than the standard? I hope to be outside most of the time, but is it worth the extra money for a larger room/better view? Thanks in advance for any information. <BR> <BR> <BR>

We went to Antigua last summer for a week and had a wonderful time. We stayed right next to Sandlas at the Rex Halcyon. <BR> <BR>The casino on Antigua (King's Casino), from what I have heard, is a dump. All of the reports I've heard said don't bother to waste your time/money there. Maybe Sandals has a private one- I don't know. We didn't go to the Caribbean to gamble...we spent our time snorkeling, being beach bums, and exploring! <BR> <BR>Antigua is a wonderful place- be sure to get OUT of the resort and explore. The locals are really friendly, and the Sunday evening party at Shirley heights is a must-see! <BR> <BR>Christie

I also stayed on Dickenson Bay, down the beach from Sandals, next to Siboney. I loved Dickenson Bay, and Antigua, and will return. We walked through King's Casino in St. John's and didn't even stop. We, too, didn't go there to gamble and it was small, dark and not the type of place we wanted to spend any time. I couldn't even tell you what type of gambling they had. Antigua has so much to offer outside that I can't imagine sitting inside gambling; even at night! Personally, I book standard rooms and use the extra money for sightseeing, shopping, nice meals, etc. I spend very little time in a hotel room and would rather spend the time and money enjoying the island. Enjoy your trip!

I have to agree with Christie and Anne. <BR>Kings is even scary looking from the outside. LOL Antigua is definetly not a <BR>gambling mecca. But as gambling is way <BR>down on my list of things to do it wasn't a problem for us. I do disagree <BR>about spending extra for upgraded rooms. <BR>I feel that the extra money is worth it <BR>for extra amenities. There is nothing like waking up to a ocean view of the beach or sitting on a private terrace and watching the sun go down. Anyway its <BR>all what you like and Annne's statments <BR>are probably the best option for her <BR>Examine your priorities and book accordingly. Have fun Antigua is a great place.

we loved the Hawksbill Resort in Antigua and stayed there twice - people are fantastic, and the resort is terrific. We are not the Sandals crowd, note enough personality at those places and you definately don't get a real taste of the island. Hawksbill is the best!

We had the pleasure of eating at three world class restuarants on Antigua. Chez Pascal, Julian's and Le Biestro. The fourth highly recommended one was Home but we ran out of nites! Definately a must if you are not staying all-inclusive and I would return to Angtigua just to visit all three again and again!