My fiance and I are torn between Aruba and Barbados. We are interested in lounging in the sun, but are looking for some nightlife (but not spring-break--we are in our mid-30's). Some sight-seeing and good food (primarily casual)would be nice as well. Any input or suggestions on the two islands is appreciated. Thanks in advance for your time.

Hi Todd, <BR> <BR>I would look into a villa rental in Barbados for your trip - perfect for couples as they can be very private. Some great night life in Barbados at the Baku or the Ship Inn in Bridgetown. I suggest looking at www.caribbeanway.com or giving them a call 1-877-953-7400 - as they have always been excellent to me and offer by far the quickest response time and best customer service in the industry. Ask to speak to Jazz - he knows it all.

todd, if you want your marriage to last more than a week, do not stay at "sam lords" in barbados!!!! it's a 3-star that should be a 1.

<BR>Hi Todd, <BR>I'd never rent a villa on Barbados, esp. from someone who has to advertise here. Stay on the Gap. Beautiful water, restaurants, nightlife & moderate to upscale accomodations. Baku (at Holetown) does have good food, a jazz bar upstairs & on Sunday afternoon, really good steel drums on the beachside terrace. <BR> <BR>Lots of sightseeing to choose from on the island. Skip the Animal Flower Cave & the Wildlife Preserve (zoo) & Bridgetown. The east coast is spectacular, the Crane is a must (eat lunch on the deck on the cliffs, then walk down to the beach for a snooze), shop at the chattel house villages (the Gap & Holetown). <BR> <BR>There are Chefettes/BBQ Barns all over the island. They're touted as Barbados' version of McDonalds. I'm not a McD's fan, but the Chefettes make McD's seem gourmet. In Holetown, try Pizzaz -- excellent food & lots more than pizza. On the Gap, try the sandwich shop in the middle of the chattel houses. Excellent & reasonable. <BR> <BR>There are lots of beaches to visit. Take an afternoon sail on a cat up the west coast. Lovely. Snorkeling was disappointing, but swimming w/the turtles was interesting. <BR> <BR>We really enjoyed Barbados. Haven't done Aruba yet, mainly because everyone who returns tells us it's so Americanized. I'm sure we will someday. Cayman is also very westernized & we enjoyed our vacation there. Depends on what you're in the mood for. <BR> <BR>Have fun & romance, wherever you choose. Best hints: the Barbados airport is hot in the arrivals area & cold in the departures area. And there's no such thing as carrying too much film. The photo ops on Barbados are countless.