Help Picking an Island
 

I am starting to plan a trip to the Caribbean for later this year. Are there any good sources to go to help pick the best island for me?<BR><BR>My desires:<BR>Nice beaches<BR>Good snorkeling (preferably from beach)<BR>Some trees & vegetation (ie, not too dry)<BR>A variety of restaurants - up to medium level of dining (don't want to eat at the same place every day)<BR>Wildlife or Mountains - optional<BR>Moderate price<BR>Cities or other non-beach activities available <BR>Night life - not important<BR><BR>Thanks,

Michele,<BR>I'd suggest St. John based on what you're asking for. It has most/all that's on your list. You can do day trips to hit anything not available on the island. Have fun!

I would suggest Negril, Jamaica. While Jamaica does seem to get bashed due to crime and poverty, we have been numerous times and continue to enjoy ourselves each time. Negril inparticular is really the better part of the island - more low key, some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, great attractions to see of the resorts, excellent local food, good off shore snorkeling and the mountain ranges are beautiful. Good cliff diving too.<BR><BR>Good site on Negril is www.negril.com

I'd recommend St.Martin...be sure to stay on the French side. Fabulous white sand beaches (clothing optional, if you wish), great variety of restaurants at various price levels, shopping, nightlife. You'd believe you were on the French Riviera. We've been going there for 20 years.

Visit isla-mujeres.net

I completely agree with Nancy about St. John. St. John fits your criteria. I've been to St. Maarten and Jamaica and I believe that St. John offers better snorkeling, beaches, lush vegetation and great activities. <BR>It sounds like it fits your needs perfectly.

I'd suggest St. Croix, USVI. It is a mixture of the other 2 USVI, St. John and St. Thomas. You have lots of nature and some very good restaurants and shopping, but on a small scale.

St. John!!! gorgeous!!! Beaches are phenominal!

I'd go with St Martin (French side). I liked the Meridien. The deciding factor could be the short taxi ride to Grand-Case which is famous for it's restaurants.