gingerhead

I am not typically an AI type of traveler, but my boyfriend and I are planning a Carribbean trip in January and we would like to explore the convenience that it offers. Does anyone have a favorite property that has:
* A great beach (long, white sands pref)
* No high-rise type of accomodations
* Good (enough) restaraunts and bars

We are open to any island, looking for a middle-range price. I would love to find somewhere that had some local charm while offering the convenience of a resort. I would appreciate advice from anyone who has tried the AI experience!

Steve114

My girlfriend and I visited the Dominican Republic a few weeks ago and stayed in a resort called Charlisangels (private villas within a gated community) where I paid a fixed rate for a three night vacation with all gourmet foods and drinks included, also gorgeous girls for the ones who prefer variety. For some this might not work because of escort business, but for us it worked wonders. The country is great and the local people too.

Kimberly

Sandals Resort are our favorite AI, we have been to pretty much all of there resorts.. I think you would like Sandals Negril....

Tuxedocat

Look into the Wyndham in St. Thomas. Gorgeous beaches, lots of things to do, and lots of other islands nearby to visit if you like.

virginia

ginger i apologize for steve114. this is hardly typical of the discussions on this site. hopefully the editors will delete it.
you could look into the club med on provo. its an adults only club, 13 miles of the nicest sand you'll ever find. no high rises. tons of great places to eat, although with ai you get all meals for free???
steve - no one has ever called me a prude, but you are fairly disgusting. in any event this is not a forum where prostitution is discussed.

KVR

We only stay at AI properties if they are available. I have to disagree with the Wyndham recommendation on St. Thomas. We stayed there in May and was not impressed with the hotel or the Island. Much prefer Mexico; Playa del Carmen and Cozumel for great beaches. We've also stayed at Sandals in Nassau and it has to be our favorite AI type of property. Although more expensive than other AI choices. I wouldn't stay in the Bahamas in January though, too cool. We loved Grand Cayman. 7 Mile Beach has to be the best we've seen to date. Unfortunately, they do not offer but one one or two AI options.

I looked into Club Med in Provo and it seemed too much like a single party scene than a couples type resort. Too bad because Turks & Caicos is on our list. I would also look at Antigua. We haven't been there yet, but pics of the beaches look fabulous. There is a Sandals resort and a few other AI options.

Tuxedocat

Virginia: I guess I hadn't read Steve114's post carefully. Rereading it, I say "Ee-euwh!" Oh well, just goes to show you the world is full of all kinds. Unfortunately, such places exist in many parts of the world. Poor, desparate people, and the predators willing to take advantage of their situation.

Lisa1271

Try Paradisus in Punta Cana or even in Costa Rica. Both are exceptional resorts, great food and lots of variety, super service and, sorry Steve114, no prostitutes!!
Lisa S

gingerhead

Thank you all for your suggestions, I have several great options to choose from. Steve114 - I think that you have found your way to the wrong forum.