sorry for all the typos in my previous message--I didn't preview!

Mary

Hi Mary,

I will definitely keep you posted. I did smile when I read the "gracious warning" on the Caneel site about kids. But their description of the kids' club sounded good, and I get the impression that the kid/counselor ratio would be good. At times I have visions of my girls playing blissfully on the sand for hours or even trying snorkeling with us--that's when I think Caneel may be a go. Other times, I have visions of my little one pulling down her pants at the breakfast buffet or having a meltdown at the otherwise serene pool. That's when I think we'd be better off at the Westin -- or even a Club Med. Ah...parenthood!

Mary, Caneel is *very* family friendly. Our four-year-old loves it there and makes lots of friends each visit. The resort tries to keep some areas adults only (Scott Beach and one of the restaurants) but Caneel is so spread out and offers so much privacy it's easy to keep most guests happy regardless of their situation.

Re. the Westin--we stayed there in 2004 on a corporate incentive trip and it is not comparable to Caneel in any way. Big American resort, small lame beach, lots and lots of corporate clients and men in sports coats. My comment was that we might as well have stayed in Florida because you have no sense you're in the Caribbean.

Thanks to you both for your comments about Caneel--I agree their kids camp sounds great and it is good to know that it is not as stern as it seems!
My neighbors went to the Westin off season so they got a great rate, but said that if they had paid the in-season rate, they would have been very disappointed by what they got for their money.

thanks again!

Mary

Hi,

I wanted to let everyone who helped here know that I've finally made a decision--booked the Buccaneer tonight! We'll be going in June, so I hope to touch base with MaryMarra, and ccrosner, and others who love St. Croix before we go to get more tips. Caneel is still on the top of my list for a romantic get-away in the future!

Best,
skl

You made a great decision!!!! You will LOVE stx!!!!!

good choice--I talked this weekend with someone who just came back from Caneel who has children the same age as ours and she said she wouldn't choose it for a family vacation (she went just with her husband).

The Buc is great--Carol gave you the best advice on which room to request.

Let us know what questions you have.

Mary

We have used Capable Caregivers for nanny service on Grand Cayman on two different vacations for our very busy two boys and been very happy. Your condo/hotel can find them for you.

Good choice, sklewis. As long as you keep in mind that the Buccaneer is not the Ritz or the Four Seasons (and you're not paying those prices!), you'll be happy you decided to go there. It isn't luxurious but it's lovely. And I think you will like the people you meet there.

Be in touch as you get closer to ask questions. Happy to help. I will probably offer some tips after our trip back there in TWO WEEKS!!! Can't wait. Already discussing where we're going to dinner each night...