I think I’m going to have to give all inclusive up
I keep hearing of how unsafe Mexico, Jamaica and most recently Dominican Republic. So that’s what I said no to those coutures. Any suggestions on any places even if not AL?

Since you've decided not to go AI then, in February, pretty much any island from Puerto Rico and south will be “tropical/warm, beaches, activities/excursions and good restaurants” and will have rental villas and, of course, hotels so - can you provide any additional information about what you’d like in a Caribbean vacation so we can help narrow down your choices?

Where will you be flying from?

Are you looking for a destination you can reach non-stop from your nearest International Gateway Airport or are you willing to take one or more connecting flights and/or ferries to reach your destination?

I know you said budget isn’t too much of a factor but it would really help if you could give us a dollar range you are willing to spend on accommodations. No sense giving you recommendations for a resort that might cost $1,000+/night if you only want to spend $500/night.

Likewise, what is your budget for airfare as can be high for some of the islands, especially those that require connecting flights.

What type of activities, if any, interest you?

Do you need an active nightlife or would you rather visit a very quiet island?

There are a lot of AI hotels all around the Caribbean. Barbados has several good ones, so does Antigua, St Lucia, Tobago & Grenada for example.

Negril is not warm enough in Feb for me. Air & sea temps were a bit cool for my taste when we went in March. It was comfortable though. Negril is great, couple of my friends have been recently & another is scheduled to go in Nov to an all inclusive (sadly) on Bloody Bay.

I agree, it’s silly to write off Jamaica & Mexico.

Thanks everyone. I am back to looking at Mexico for cost effectiveness. Mainly the Playa Mujeres area. I’m flying from SC, USA. Multiple flight or ferries dont bother me. My husband and I scuba but no one else going is certified but would like to go on a dive or two if possible. We love to fish. I love the spa and beaches! I’m always down for exploring places. Budget I guess I would like to stay under $7,000 if possible including airfare. But there is wiggle room if a place requires it and seems to be special. At the same time if it’s a neat place and cheaper it’s a win win. I’ll look into Barbados and Antigua. Been there before but only by cruise. So I know I never got the whole picture.

Since you scuba divers, Cozumel is very good. We’re advanced OW divers and really enjoyed the diving there. We also did some diving around Isla Mujeres and saw whale sharks and some magnificent rays. There is plenty for non divers to see/do or maybe they can snorkel.

It was not on your list, so maybe you already know you wouldn’t like it, but what about St Martin? I would also consider St Lucia and Nevis.