CaribbeanJunky

Hi all. I'm in charge of planning our honeymoon (we are New Yorkers, 35 and 28) and I am hoping you can help me with our decision. We are planning on going for about 8 or 9 nights next August and have narrowed it down to Cap Juluca in Anguilla (unless you can strongly suggest another resort in Anguilla) and some of the hotels in Turks and Caicos. We have about $10K to put towards the trip which should help with your recommendations.

A few other things to consider. We would like a nice resort without pretentiousness. Food is very important to us (exploring the island for restaurants is not a problem) and we would prefer that kids aren't running all around the resort. A decent bar at the resort would be nice as well. Which resorts would you suggest?

We have also considered the BVI's (Peter Island, Little Dix Bay and Biras Creek) although I think that has been put to the side. Jade Mountain in St. Lucia is also being considered but b/c of cost, we would probably have to cut that down to 7 nights.

Please let me know your suggestions and why. I greatly appreciate your help.

Thanks

RoamsAround

The one key point you mentioned is that "food is very important to us". If that's the case of all the places you mentioned Anguilla (and Cap Juluca) will be your best choice. The island boasts 35 magnificent white sand beaches and 80 restaurants, many of which are among the best in the Caribbean (second only to St. Bart's - see my comments below). The other destinations, while very nice, simply won't provide you the access to the same quality and quantity of restaurants.

Cap Juluca sits on Maundy's Bay, one of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean. while the resort does get families there are never very many children so you won't be bothered at all (you'll find this pretty much the norm at the other resorts you mentioned).

While both Peter Island and Biras Creek are top notch resorts their locations (one's a private island, the other is accessible only by boat) you cannot easily dine "off-resort" so you'll be limited to the resort's restaurants. You didn't mention where in the T&C's you were considering but regardless you won't find anywhere near the same dining opportunities anywhere in the island chain. Also, skip St. lucia, it's not even in the same class as the other destinations you mentioned.

If you decide Anguilla is not for you take a look at St. Bart's (perhaps Eden Roc, Isle de France or Le Toiny). The island is upscale and has some the very best restaurants in the Caribbean. Some people refer to the island as the Paris of the Caribbean. Simply put it's a foodie's paradise.

CaribbeanJunky

Thank you RoamsAround! Regarding the T&C's, it seems as if there are many different choices from The Gansevoort, Parrot Cay, Grace Bay Club, Meridian Club, The Regent Palms, Somerset and some others which makes this all the more confusing.

sassy_cat

I agree with Roams. Anguilla is perfect for food lovers and beach lovers.
Check your dates as it's carnival time and there's a big boat race sometime in August.

mnag

Been to both - based on your requirements Anguilla is a better fit for reasons mentioned above by other posters. Couple other points to add - although Grace bay is gorgeous it feels a bit built up to me. Many hotels/resorts lined up one after the other on the beach. Not so on Aguilla...at least not Cap Jaluca. Also while there are other beaches to explore on Turks there seem to be many more on Anguilla...so if you like driving around exploring the island/beaches Anguilla would be a better choice.

TravelGal7

If you do give the BVI any more consideration, Biras Creek fits what you are looking for very well. I've stayed there a few times and the food is the best I've had at any Island resort (great wine list too). Also, they'll shuttle you over (or you can take on of their Boston Whalers) less than 2 minutes across the Sound to Little Dix or Saba Rock to eat too.

Also, no kiddos under 8 are allowed, so you don't have to worry about that! The bar is nice, but it's definitely a couple's resort, so not too "hopping" or anything. Again though, you can hop over to Saba for that. Enjoy your honeymoon!

Kristen1206

Without a doubt..Anguilla!! Best restaurants and beaches you will ever find.

Anguillagirl

Couldn't agree more. Anguilla is the place for you. As many know I'm a Cuisinart lover, so I recommend you check it out. I have found the service there to be second to none, and the grounds are just beautiful. You get sorbet and biscotti every day at three at the beach or pool, and the beach bar there is just fantastic. Garvey the man knows what he's doing. We have never found kids to be a problem there and it's close to many of the really good restaurants. If you need any dining suggestions please feel free to ask. I've got a top 5 list at all times.

CaribbeanJunky

Wow, thank you all for your insight. I think we are now leaning towards Anguilla!

Anguillagirl, I'd love your suggestions for restaurants.

And if we choose to go with Cap Juluca, is there a big difference in the room selections? What would you recommend?

Liesl

I agree with the Biras Creek recommendation (although we will be going to Anguilla - Cuisinart - this winter for a change of pace). Biras is a Relais & Chateaux property with wonderful meals!

Alles Gut!

AnneMench

You need to also check out Kamalame cay in the Bahamas. It is a private island and the food is amazing. Very romantic

AnneMench

Any suggestions on romantic small resorts? We like luxery meets Robinson Crusoe. Any where in Carribean or Mexico. Resorts or private villa.

beachykeen

Caribbean Junky, I have been to Anguilla about 15 times, have stayed at both CuisinArt and Cap. Cap is on a way better beach, and is more set up for privacy. Also, beach lounges more comfortable. Sorbet on the beach in the afternoon and afternoon tea with scones and cookies. I prefer the lower level room to walk directly onto the beach. Upper level has a second floor view of beach and a private roof top area for...whatever you want to do on a private rooftop. Cap has no pool, so if that is necessary, go to Cuisi.
You MUST have dinners at Dolce Vita, Straw Hat, Veya. Too many choices for the other 5-6 nights. Go to Viceroy and Malliouhana for sunset drinks.
Please note that many restaurants close in late August

Caribzack

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