Hi Everyone,

As stated in my title, I have never been to the Caribbean. Interested in someplace for a 5d/4nts stay. Leaving from NY. This will be either early July or late Nov.(both if I get my way).

Looking for:
1. pretty beach(es)
2. beautiful hotel/resort
3. great food
4. some type of nightlife
5. relaxation
6. casino for The Mister, did I mention Food.

I don't know if that's too much to ask for in any one island as I've never been to the caribbean. I've read a couple of postings and so far I'm interested in the Cayman Islands, Aruba or St. Thomas. Any thoughts or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

There are no casinos on St. Thomas. Also, since you are only going for 4 nights you should consider an island that you can fly to non-stop from NY in order to maximise your time "on-island" rather than spending time in airports changing planes. Using that criterior and if casinos are an important part of your Caribbean travel plans than look at Aruba (the furthest away), St. Martin, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico or, although not technically in the Caribbean but closer to NY, Nassau, Paradise Island and Freeport (all in the Bahamas). All of these offer good beaches, have a variety of hotels and resorts in all price ranges, access to fine restaurants and active night life.

Both times we have been to aruba, we have taken direct flights from JFK. I don't think it should be a problem. We've also had great food and nice hotels.

I've heard inconsistent things about St. Thomas, though I have not been there myself. I believe there is a casino in nearby St. Croix though...

No casino in the Caymans either, but it was absolutely gorgeous.

I think Aruba would fit your list pretty well. Otherwise, I think St. Martin/Maarten would be next (that & a return trip to Caymans are high on my priority list).

I agree, Aruba is probably the best spot. Nassau/Paradise Island is a zoo so wouldn't recommend that.

It adds up to Aruba to me.

Aruba is great but St Maarten actually has prettier beaches and better restaurants and more of them both too..
St Maarten has more casinos too..
do some rsearch and see which island appeals to you most

Hi!

I would recommend Paradise Island. If you're into big resorts, you'd love the Atlantis -- great food, great service, great pools, nice beach, and a big casino in the hotel. There are also plenty of smaller and/or more luxurious resorts available, and getting to Nassau (a $30/40-minute cab ride away) is fast and cheap from NYC. Nightlife isn't crazy like Cancun, but there are plenty of local bars and clubs.

I know another poster described Paradise Island as a zoo, but I loved it! Then again, I'm from the NYC area so crowds don't bother me. We were there over New Years, which is the high season, and even then it wasn't ridiculously overcrowded.

Enjoy your trip, wherever you wind up!!