I am planning a trip there in late april for 7 single guys and want to get the real low down on the +/- of Margarita Island. I've either heard really good or really bad things. We are looking for a relaxing beautiful beach experience with a decent nightlife. Am I on the right track? or should I look elsewhere? <BR> <BR>

hi joe : There are some nice beaches in

Hi Joe: There are some nice beaches on Margarita Island. Howvever if you are looking for a Isalnd that will provide a great beach experience and have nightlife to then maybe you should look at booking a resort in Aruba. The beaches in Aruba are fantastic and there are many different areas. Palm Beach Has the most going on with alot of watersports, beach bars ect..There are always Latin or Carribbean nights being held somewhere on the beach and the casinos are quite busy. Have you thought about a Carnival Cruise. We have been on cruises were there are groups of singles and they seem to be having a great time! Have a great time wherever you go! Karen

I'd go anywhere but Margarita. We have been to the Caribbean 30+ times and have two extremely negative trips. Margarita was one of them. <BR> <BR>Their beaches do not compare to the rest of the Caribbean.

If you didn't already book your trip, I'd look elsewhere. My wife and I just returned and, although it wasn't terrible, it wasn't great. If you already are committed, let me know and, I can give you some details and the name of someone there to contact which can make your trip more enjoyable. If you're going thru Caracas let me know that too.

You should look in the Yucatan area of Mexico--Playa del Carman, Cozumel, Akumal, etc.. Since you are considering Margarita, costs must be of prime interest. You can find very modest places to stay right on the beach around Akumal if you like to rough it. The beaches are better here than anything you will find in Margarita Island. Do some searching on the web.

Hello Joe! <BR> <BR>My husband and I have a timeshare in Aruba but like to exchange it for other destinations. We went to Isla de Margarita in Jan.'98. We had a wonderful time and want to return again. Aruba has better hotel beaches but the tours Margarita offer are a lot better. If you decide to go make sure to go on the Los Roques tour and the land cruiser safari, you won't be disappointed. Also,make reservations for the La Samanna spa to be pampered for several hours. For my husband and I it cost about $150 for a 4 hour plan ( sea mist sauna, body scrub, swedish massage, regular message,facials etc.). The famous Sarah Ferguson and other celebrities frequent the spa. That was the first for my husband and I and it was FANTASTIC. It was recommended by one of the tour companies. The people on the island are friendly. Your money goes a long way in Margarita. Aruba is more exclusive for couples and honeymooners. On Margarita we met so many nice people. In Aruba people want to be to themselves and don't want to be bothered. On our next adventure to Margarita we want to see Angel falls and Orinoco Delta( overnight stay in a small camp in the jungle of South America). The only thing we regret is having to stay overnight in Caracus due to flight arrangements. Very,Very expensive in Caracus. To sum this up, more to see and do in Maragrita than Aruba. It depends on your taste and what your seeking to do on your vacation. <BR> <BR>P.S. Margarita's uninhabited beaches are the best.

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Cindy: I too own timeshare in Aruba. Which place did you trade to in Margarita? <BR>