Scott

we have $2500 to spend, leaning towards Negril-Jamaica at an AI resort. Forum
seems negative towards Jamaica, but where
else can you go for that $$$ AI? Caymans,
Bahamas, Bermuda, BVI, USVI all too
expensive. Our first trip to the Carib.
Any opinions?

Amy

For $2500 you may be surprised at the fact that your options may be better than you think. Here's a website for a good travel agency..they have some great specials:

http://www.travelunlimited.com

Rose

Scott, For a couple forums that are not negative towards Jamaica, check http://theone.negril.com/cgi-bin/config.pl or the tourist bulletin board at www.jamaicans.com. Both are very active Jamaican bulletin boards loaded with good information from people who enjoy Jamaica. I've been 11 times so far and it's still my favorite Caribbean destination.

joel

Scott, I feel as Amy does, that for $2500 you have a number of options. We have vacationed for years in the BVI, partly because it's never crowded or touristy, and partly because the citizenry are so very friendly and thoughtful.
I don't know exactly what you're looking for in a resort, but I would suggest you go to BVIWELCOME.COM and check out Frenchman's Cay Hotel. It is a small collection of small villas (1 or 2 BR, full kit, LR, lovely shaded terrace, dining room) with an ABSOLUTELY STUNNING view of the Sir Francis Drake Channel and half a dozen islands dotting the waters. So-so beach, but with a 4WD you can head out to 30 or 40 other beaches. Very good restaurant. If you find that too expensive, check out Sebastion's-On-the-Beach, same website.
If I can provide any other info, please contact me direct. Believe me, there's a big difference between Jamaica and the BVI when it comes to feeling welcome and safe.

mike

Try the Dominican Republic...Punta Cana has AI resorts galore. Two people for a week including airfare is do-able in the summer for $2500

Joe Raphael

Punta Cana in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic is a better choice right now.