My fiance and I are getting married July 2001. We have $4000 MAX,and we'd prefer to keep it under this amount. The problem is we're turned off by Sandals resorts, Jamaica, Bahamas, Dominican Republic. We'd like a honeymoon that has enough relaxing by the beach, but enough to do , such as hiking, snorkeling. I would like a room with some character, hopefully an ocean view (although not required), and hopefully a balcony, and not like a Holiday Inn room. Is this realistic for the setting and budget? Are there any resorts that have secluded lodging, but in walking distance to the pools and activities? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

If you would like a honeymoon that is unusual but spectacular, look into Ladera on St. Lucia. Also the Jalousie Hilton, also on St. Lucia.

<BR>Bucuti Beach Resort on Aruba is for you! <BR> <BR> <BR>It is a small hotel of 40 rooms which is located on the greatest expanse of white sandy beach on Aruba, Eagle Beach. The Bucuti has a very solid reputation for pleasing visitors. The atmosphere is very relaxed and the staff very friendly and helpful. The Beach is a half a mile wide and it is the Caribbean widest expanse of white sandy beach. The bucuti has mixed crowd of guests mainly European and American. <BR> <BR>Though you are in a small hotel in a relaxing atmosophere the island of Aruba has lost to offer in terms of day activities, nightlife and entertainment. <BR>And you can explore the Arikok national Park which covers one third of the island. Arikok national Park is considered unique in the Caribbean with its arid landscape huge rock formations, caves with indian markings, and hills inhabiting species not seen else where in the world. <BR> <BR>You can not go wrong with Aruba and especially not with the bucuti beach resort.

Look into the Turtle Nest Inn on Grand Cayman. They have a website you can view with lots of pictures to see if you would be interested (turtlenestinn.com). Their room rates are incredibly low for Grand Cayman. It's right on the beach (although not on the main beach drag, Seven Mile Beach). You would need to rent a car, however Grand Cayman is small and relatively safe so it is easy to get around. You would probably want a car to be able to explore and go out to dinner, as I understand taxi rates can add up. You can do a search on this site to see what others have written about the place. All the comments are very positive. Also, check it out via the website, wheretostay.com.

How about the outislands of the Bahamas. The Abacos or Eleuthera and Harbour Island. <BR> <BR>Our fav place is Runaway Hill on Harbour Island, only 10 rooms and most have a balcony, nice pool, RIGHT on the beach and incredible food served on the porch overlooking the water, oh so romantic. <BR> <BR>Try these websites for more info, www.briland.com, www.runawayhill.com and www.romorabay.com (Romora Bay even has honeymoon packages including hotel and airfare and food) <BR> <BR>Congrats and have a great time. <BR> <BR>gail