Message: My husband and I are planning a vacation for mid-October and can't decide on Aruba or Grand Cayman. Recommendations on location and places to stay would be appreciated.<BR><BR>

JRS<BR><BR>There is no chance of a hurricane @ anytime while visiting Aruba. <BR><BR>The Cayman Islands will be done with there hurricane season in late November. Last year they had some affects from a hurricane around November 2.<BR><BR>The chances of it hitting the island are very slim though.<BR><BR>My husband and I were also looking into visiting the Caymans and will go late September or late October.<BR><BR>We've been to Aruba three times and LOVE it. We loved it.<BR><BR>They have the following:<BR><BR>NO bugs (the breeze keeps them away)<BR>a wonderful trade wind<BR>incredible beaches<BR>super friendly people<BR>lovely resorts (stayed @ the Marriott, loved the swimming pool with the waterfall) The Hyatt and Radisson have lovely resorts and landscaping as well<BR>sunset sails<BR>casinos<BR>snorkeling & other watersports<BR>horseback riding<BR>jeep tours<BR>secluded coves on the north side of the island<BR>horse & buggy carriage rides in town<BR>safe water to drink from tap<BR>safe food to eat<BR><BR>We LOVE Aruba!!!!!<BR><BR>You do have to realize however that it is an arid island. I kind of think of it as Nevada on an island with a tropical twist!! But we don't care. We enjoy the safety and the beautiful landscaped area.<BR><BR>

Susan is not correct about hurricanes and Aruba.<BR>There have been four well documnented hurricanes hit Aruba since 1944.<BR><BR>Yes, Aruba is away from the high traffic hurricane route, but Aruba has had almost as many hurricanes hit as has Trinidad.

Jen, Susan is an avid Aruba lover. We've heard her rant over and over again how she loves Aruba and she's always promoting the Marriott resort there. JRS, could you give us more details in what you are looking for in your vacation. If you want to know which one has better beaches and snorkeling, I would choose Grand Cayman. What's your budget for accomodations? It would help narrow down your choices.

Jen -<BR><BR>You are incorrect...Aruba is OUT of the hurricane belt!<BR><BR>JRS - you are extremely safe in visiting Aruba. Grand Cayman can be a bit iffy at that point.<BR><BR>Both are beautiful, but somewhat different.<BR><BR>Enjoy your trip.

Thanks for your input. We did indeed decide on Aruba based on having a better chance of more stable weather. We found a great deal on the Radisson's website for an oceanfront room. We can't wait to snokel. Any recommendations for other outings or restaurants?