Tabernash2

starrs, it does seem there's a bias against AIs.

We've actually never stayed at one. I guess we could drop that idea, if it's the 'perfect' resort with several places to eat and snack, and we could just charge things to the room.

I've liked it when we've been at other large resorts where we could just charge whatever whenever. I'd like to not be watching the budget or anyone else concerned about it, either.

There will be 4 of us, immediate family members, and I'd like everyone to feel free to do whatever, and eat/drink whenever.

Snorkeling right there at the property; snorkeling trips available, covered chairs at the beach with drink/snack service, a little bit of history in a town close-by, no need for a rental car, music, like in Jamaica, is appealing, etc.

My dream island vacay! Does it exist?

Bassguy66

One of my favorites is St John, but finding a direct flight to St Thomas out of Boston will be tricky....

Tabernash2

I know. I've seen some doozy flight itineraries that are about 20 hours!

starrs

"Snorkeling right there at the property; snorkeling trips available, covered chairs at the beach with drink/snack service, a little bit of history in a town close-by, no need for a rental car, music, like in Jamaica, is appealing, etc."

That almost describes staying at the Jalousie on St. Lucia. They have (or had) the European pricing that included two meals - if you wanted it. You'd have to take a water taxi to the town for the market or Rodney Bay for a lunch/snorkeling excursion. Snorkeling right off the beach against the Piton and FABULOUS snorkeling - better than anything in Hawaii or the Keys. It's my little slice of heaven.

starrs

Here it is now -
http://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.c..._and_accolades

Absolutely gorgeous.

Hope to get back one day...

Tabernash2

Thank you!

Odin

You can have AI package at Sugar Beach. I would recommend a package including at least some meals if you don't take the AI option, as it is remote and not always convenient to go out looking for restaurants.

I would not think Sugar Beach will be less expensive than a similar standard hotel in Bermuda/T&C or somewhere in the Bahamas.

WWK

I love Negril, Jamaica, but think you'd find it too rustic. Not many AIS I'd recommend there, either. It's all about small boutique hotels on a wonderful long stretch of beach.

About Turks: The island has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the Caribbean, but the interior is not so pretty. There's not much going on besides the beaches, water sports, and some excellent restaurants. It may be way too quiet for you. And it can be pricey, though in May/June, you'll find deals.

Too bad you've discounted Mexico. To my own surprise, I am now a big fan of Cancun. There are lots of resorts on the beach that would fit most of your requirements, and probably cost less than many other places. We've gone several times with absolutely no problems, and really enjoyed it.

Tabernash2

Just looked at flights to Cancun from Boston. Not good news.

sharona

<<One of my favorites is St John, but finding a direct flight to St Thomas out of Boston will be tricky....>>

Perhaps you missed my post above. I have a non-stop flight to St. Thomas this Sunday on Jet Blue. It's a great flight time: leaving Boston at 8:57 a.m., arriving STT at 12:59.

We've stayed at Caneel Bay on St. John. There is good snorkeling right off the beach and it's a lush island. There are a lot of snorkeling opportunities all through the USVI's and BVI's. There are no AI's on St. John however but there is a nice little town with restaurants and a bit of shopping.

There are some good AI's in Jamaica. Check out Iberostar Grand. We really liked it but it's in Montego Bay and not Negril. If you want an AI in Negril then Swept Away and Couples get very good reviews. We didn't find the snorkeling to be that good in Jamaica but there's lot to do on the island.

Tabernash2

I will look into your recommendations, sharona. Thank you!

WWK

Got any friends in New York? Leaving from JFK would open up a world of options!

Tabernash2

We thought of that, WWK! It would be more of a hassle, though.

suze

<We really liked it but it's in Montego Bay and not Negril.>

I think Montego Bay makes more sense if Jamaica is the pick. First off, it's right at the airport, maximizing time on a short trip.

As has been mentioned a few times by a few different people, even the more high end places are very rustic in Negril. That's kind of what it's all about there. It is *not* a luxury destination by any stretch of the imagination!

WWK

Just in case you're still interested in T&C.... Forgot to mention that WINDSONG resort is next door to CORAL GARDENS, which is one of Provo's main snorkeling spots. And also happens to be next to one of my favorite restaurants on the island, SOMEWHERE cafe, which has excellent Mexican food, margaritas, and beautiful sunsets. You would need a taxi to go back and forth to other restaurants/beaches. You should be able to get a good deal for May/June.

Also look at THE SANDS and OCEAN CLUB WEST, although you would need a car or taxi to access snorkeling, etc.

Tabernash2

Thanks. I'll look up Windsong.