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-   -   Best caribbean gambling/beach spot (https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/best-caribbean-gambling-beach-spot-207420/)

notagambler Apr 26th, 2002 08:08 AM

Best caribbean gambling/beach spot
 
Can anyone suggest a great casino/hotel combination. Trying to satisfy 2 people with very different interests. I want something not too busy or crowded with a nice beach or surroundings and my mate wants to drop his cash at some blackjack table (ugh). Well to each his own. Anyplace both of us will be happy??? <BR>

SXMFan Apr 26th, 2002 08:33 AM

Try Port De Plaissance in St. Maarten. <BR><BR>Despite what a lot of people say about it, it is really a charming, friendly, safe island, with wonderful beaches, and some great casinos. The food is top calibre...and shopping is also nice. <BR><BR>Although this resort is NOT on the beach, there are several within a few minutes of this location. However, this resort, is top of the line accommodations, with an onsite casino. <BR><BR>Enjoy

lenny Apr 26th, 2002 10:00 AM

If you want great beaches and gambling, you might want to consider Aruba. Sonesta Beach Resort is connected to the Seaport Mall which has tons of shops, restaurants and casinos. To get to the beach, you have to board a shuttle boat that will whisk you away to your private island. If you prefer to stay in a hotel that's directly on the beach, you have numerous choices from the low-rise to the high rise hotel section and your husband can just drive or take the bus to the casinos. We stayed at Aruba Marriott and enjoyed our stay. Hope this helps.

Rachel Apr 26th, 2002 11:26 AM

<BR><BR>Aruba is probably best choice for you. The beaches are the BEST in the Caribbean. I'd suggest the low-rise area where the beaches are less crowded. <BR><BR>Forget Port de Plaissance in St Martin. It's not what you're looking for and the island is trashy and dangerous. Aruba is a clean, safe island with a very high standard of living. Good luck choosing and have fun!<BR>

Kim Apr 27th, 2002 10:53 AM

Try Atlantis in Paradise Island in the Bahamas.Go to www.atlantis.com and take the tour.

Jay Apr 27th, 2002 12:11 PM

St. martin is not trashy and dagerous.<BR>But aruba is windy and dry with what, 2 beaches?<BR>St. martin is pretty with 37.<BR>St. martin wins.<BR>Rachel, fromt he aruba tourist board, loses

Anna Apr 27th, 2002 02:25 PM

Never been to Aruba so I cannot comment on that. Have been to St. Martin & it sucks. Give Aruba a try, it can't be as bad as St. Martin

Max Apr 28th, 2002 01:22 AM

San Juan has great hotels with casino's, shopping, restaurants, beaches, and nightlife! <BR>

margy Apr 28th, 2002 04:48 AM

Agree, San Juan is terrific. Atlantis is too crowded & busy. San Juan has a lot to do!

Linda Apr 28th, 2002 04:51 AM

Definitely Aruba! Each of the major hotels has a casino but if you want uncrowded and awesome beach then try the Bucuti (short distance to casinos). Whoever recommended the Atlantis is off base as it is VERY crowded and busy.

Ted Apr 28th, 2002 12:08 PM

I've been all over the Caribbean, and I have to agree with Aruba, preferably the more secluded low-rise section of Eagle Beach. Casinos are nearby or on the premises, and the incredible beach is very large and uncrowded. (Aruba's two largest beaches, Eagle & Palm, line the island's west coast and are, together, probably 10 miles long. Other great beaches in Aruba include Roger's Beach, Baby Beach, and dozens more on the east & north coasts.) <BR><BR>Atlantis is both busy & crowded, and I agree that St Martin is not a good choice given your other options.

Shar Apr 29th, 2002 12:41 PM

Recommend the Bucuti in Aruba--see Fodors recommendations. The beach is really spectacular and quiet--there are a lot of casinos on the island as well as excellent dining possibilities. Rent a car for mobility--its easy to drive. We have vacationed in Aruba at least five times and have always had a good time.

Casey Apr 29th, 2002 09:43 PM

My pick would be San Juan. It covers everything that you're looking for.

Tobey Apr 30th, 2002 09:27 AM

Just got back from San Juan, it was one of my least favorite vacations. Try Aruba it is a really clean and nice island.

Mariarosa May 2nd, 2002 05:08 AM

Most resorts in Puerto Rico have a casino. My favorite is the one at the Wyndham El San Juan - very classy. <BR><BR>If you stay in San Juan, you can do day-trips to other parts of the island - the rainforest, the caverns, Culebra, the lighthouse in Cabo Rojo (beautiful site), etc.


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