Is there a Carib Island similar to Hawaii??
Jul 29th, 2004 | 10:44 AM
#1
Original Poster
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 7
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Is there a Carib Island similar to Hawaii??
Message: Hello,
My sister and I (both single, late 30's) take an annual "big" trip each Xmas (usually 12/17-12/25)--We usually go to Hawaii--used to stay at the Hyatt Regency Kauai (love the spa), but since discovering the Hapuna Beach Prince on the Big Island, we've been hooked. THIS YEAR, I would like to try the Carribean...My sister is not sure, but I'd like to present her with some good choices. Here's what we look for:
* deluxe hotel/resort (it is only once a year)
* We dont have kids, so we prefer places that don't "cater" to families and kids.
* If possible, we'd like to be able to walk/short drive to other restaurants, small shops, or interesting sights.
* great, swimable beach (we don't snorkle or dive), but since we are landlocked in Tennessee, we crave a good beach--beachside bar and food options are a big plus--we're lazy at the beach!
* activities we like: biking, water sports, working out, some spa stuff, possible a day trip to somewhere close??
* My sister definitely does not want to go somewhere where you zoom past horrible poverty in order to reach your deluxe resort.
* Friendly locals--we like to chat!
* We're not into bars/clubs--partying, just usually a good meal and maybe walking around a bit.
Ok, there you go....I have looked at Cuisinart in Anguilla--looks divine, easy to get around on the island? Also, Little Dix Bay--too secluded?? I also looked at the Royal Hideaway in Mexico, but she refuses to go--should I try and convince her??
Would love any feedback and suggestions. I'd really like to try somewhere new this year!
Thanks in advance for your help. I love this site!
J. Matteson
My sister and I (both single, late 30's) take an annual "big" trip each Xmas (usually 12/17-12/25)--We usually go to Hawaii--used to stay at the Hyatt Regency Kauai (love the spa), but since discovering the Hapuna Beach Prince on the Big Island, we've been hooked. THIS YEAR, I would like to try the Carribean...My sister is not sure, but I'd like to present her with some good choices. Here's what we look for:
* deluxe hotel/resort (it is only once a year)
* We dont have kids, so we prefer places that don't "cater" to families and kids.
* If possible, we'd like to be able to walk/short drive to other restaurants, small shops, or interesting sights.
* great, swimable beach (we don't snorkle or dive), but since we are landlocked in Tennessee, we crave a good beach--beachside bar and food options are a big plus--we're lazy at the beach!
* activities we like: biking, water sports, working out, some spa stuff, possible a day trip to somewhere close??
* My sister definitely does not want to go somewhere where you zoom past horrible poverty in order to reach your deluxe resort.
* Friendly locals--we like to chat!
* We're not into bars/clubs--partying, just usually a good meal and maybe walking around a bit.
Ok, there you go....I have looked at Cuisinart in Anguilla--looks divine, easy to get around on the island? Also, Little Dix Bay--too secluded?? I also looked at the Royal Hideaway in Mexico, but she refuses to go--should I try and convince her??
Would love any feedback and suggestions. I'd really like to try somewhere new this year!
Thanks in advance for your help. I love this site!
J. Matteson
Jul 29th, 2004 | 10:54 AM
#2
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 899
Likes: 0
One thing required for travel to most places in the Caribbean is an open mind. Poverty perceived by one is not necessarily poverty perceived by another. With that in mind, I agree with the other answers in your other thread, St. Barths, Grand Cayman, Anguilla....and may I throw out French St. Martin as a choice you may enjoy looking at. Fairly easy accessibility, as Grand Cayman is....wonderful restaurants in the Grand Case area....beautiful beaches, especially Orient.
Jul 29th, 2004 | 12:01 PM
#3
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
I have been a number of places in the Caribbean, but none are as stunning physically as Hawaii. The variety of colors and terrain in Hawaii can't be beat.
That said, the Caribbean is far closer. Another plus is that the water is warmer in the Caribbean. I think the sand in the Caribbean is far prettier, generally- lighter in color and less coarse.
I think Anguilla would be a good place for you- easy to get around by rental car. They drive on the left side of the road, but the rental cars have the steering wheel on the left side, so it's not too much to handle. Locals are very friendly and I felt very safe. I think CuisinArt is probably the best place on Anguilla for you, given what you have said you're interested in.
French St. Martin is an interesting idea. You could go to St. Bart's or Anguilla for a fun day trip. It's easy to get to from the states and it has fun shopping, if you're into that. There is definitely more to do than on Anguilla.
Little Dix is heavily honeymooners. Very remote.
The Caymans would not be for you, in my opinion. I found the driving more difficult, as it has more traffic. I also think the Caymans are too focused on families and diving/snorkeling for what you want.
In terms of the poverty, I understand what you mean. I found the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic quite depressing. Not so with the others.
I should start such a tradition with my sister! Have a great time!
That said, the Caribbean is far closer. Another plus is that the water is warmer in the Caribbean. I think the sand in the Caribbean is far prettier, generally- lighter in color and less coarse.
I think Anguilla would be a good place for you- easy to get around by rental car. They drive on the left side of the road, but the rental cars have the steering wheel on the left side, so it's not too much to handle. Locals are very friendly and I felt very safe. I think CuisinArt is probably the best place on Anguilla for you, given what you have said you're interested in.
French St. Martin is an interesting idea. You could go to St. Bart's or Anguilla for a fun day trip. It's easy to get to from the states and it has fun shopping, if you're into that. There is definitely more to do than on Anguilla.
Little Dix is heavily honeymooners. Very remote.
The Caymans would not be for you, in my opinion. I found the driving more difficult, as it has more traffic. I also think the Caymans are too focused on families and diving/snorkeling for what you want.
In terms of the poverty, I understand what you mean. I found the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic quite depressing. Not so with the others.
I should start such a tradition with my sister! Have a great time!
Jul 29th, 2004 | 04:00 PM
#4
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 718
Likes: 0
You will not find a resort/island combination in the Caribbean that matches the Hyatt Kauia for resort amenities, pool quality, spa quality, or island beauty.
You can easily find better beaches, warmer water, prettier water and a more exotic feel than Poipu area.
I'd strongly consider Cap Juluca-Anguilla (I don't think CuisinArt is in the same class for beach and ambience), St. Barth's (though you'll pay a fortune that time of year for a luxury resort), and St. John. I think your sister will be very unhappy with you if you take her to St. Martin (if her take on low standard of living is an issue).
Keep in mind that Hawaii and the Caribbean have some qualities which do not overlap at all, so you won't find a duplicate experience of Hyatt-Poipu. The most obvious is that there are very few high end full service resorts (similar to the top 15-20 in Hawaii) in the Caribbean. And good food (by Hawaii standards) is expensive and hard to find. But if you go with an open mind you may find you're charmed in a different way by the Caribbean. Some of the islands offer a much more exotic, far-away ambience which can be very enjoyable.
You can easily find better beaches, warmer water, prettier water and a more exotic feel than Poipu area.
I'd strongly consider Cap Juluca-Anguilla (I don't think CuisinArt is in the same class for beach and ambience), St. Barth's (though you'll pay a fortune that time of year for a luxury resort), and St. John. I think your sister will be very unhappy with you if you take her to St. Martin (if her take on low standard of living is an issue).
Keep in mind that Hawaii and the Caribbean have some qualities which do not overlap at all, so you won't find a duplicate experience of Hyatt-Poipu. The most obvious is that there are very few high end full service resorts (similar to the top 15-20 in Hawaii) in the Caribbean. And good food (by Hawaii standards) is expensive and hard to find. But if you go with an open mind you may find you're charmed in a different way by the Caribbean. Some of the islands offer a much more exotic, far-away ambience which can be very enjoyable.
Jul 30th, 2004 | 08:07 AM
#6
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
Take a look at Young Island in St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
http://www.youngisland.com/
Hubby and I found St. Vincent reminded us a bit of Kauai in it's terrain, etc.
From St. Vincent, get on a boat and visit Bequia for a day for shopping and a great island vibe, or tour (by boat) the west coast of St. Vincent - to the Falls of Bailene and back.
Hubby and I have been to Hawaii, Mexico, The Virgin Islands, etc. We absolutely fell in love with the Grenadines. In fact, we just put our deposits down for our return trip in March 2005 (Easter regatta here we come!)
happy travels,
amy
http://www.youngisland.com/
Hubby and I found St. Vincent reminded us a bit of Kauai in it's terrain, etc.
From St. Vincent, get on a boat and visit Bequia for a day for shopping and a great island vibe, or tour (by boat) the west coast of St. Vincent - to the Falls of Bailene and back.
Hubby and I have been to Hawaii, Mexico, The Virgin Islands, etc. We absolutely fell in love with the Grenadines. In fact, we just put our deposits down for our return trip in March 2005 (Easter regatta here we come!)
happy travels,
amy
