My husband and I are trying to plan a last minute trip to the caribbean and I'm getting overwhelmed trying to read everything and make a choice. Would appreciate input based on what we are hoping to find.<BR><BR>Planning 6 nights, end of March. Budget pretty open - like very nice to as luxurious as possible - but practical (i.e., don't need 4Seasons or anything that high).<BR><BR>While we want warmth and relaxation - need/want access to some activities physical stuff - first choice, cultural/exploring would be great too.<BR><BR>Would like nice beach/beaches and water.<BR><BR>Prefer access to variety of decent food (casual local to nice for a special dinner).<BR><BR>Nightlife not a big concern.<BR><BR>Would prefer to find island that is not impoverished except for big resorts - no offense to anyone, but makes me a little uncomfortable.<BR><BR>Any input would be great. Hope this isn't too broad. Thanks for the help.<BR>

Barbados- one of the few islands that got all the things you've listed , and NOT poor.Stay on the Southern part of the island , or West side . The East side has some gorgeous beaches but way too rough to swim( even for the locals who know their beaches well).Pink sand or white sand ? emerald or turqoise water? Babados has them all.

I was thinking of Barbados too. I prefer the west coast.

Check out Anguilla. Accomodations range from very nice (Carimar Beach Club, where we stayed) to super luxurious. A handful of good restaurants to very, very nice (Altamer). The most stunning beaches we have ever seen and all are open to the public. High standard of living (compared to other islands) for the locals, who are extremely friendly and hospitable. Good luck in your search.

We only spent one day in Curacao on a RCCL cruise but we really enjoyed ourselves. There was a traveler who recently returned--see posting from 3/2 regarding ..just returned from Curacao-Wow...stayed at the Marriott Hotel.

Maureen had a good idea of a vacation that will allow a certain amount of luxury. The Curacao Marriot offers large rooms, nice bathrooms, panoramic views and a great swimming pool. Residents offer lots of hospitality and sightseeing. Very good food on island as well as at the hotel.

I think the Cayman islands are nice, especially if you like to dive or snorkel. The islanders are polite and you won't find the pushy straw market types that you find on Jamaica. As beautiful as Jamaica is, I would recommend against it for your first trip to the Caribbean unless you are planning on spending all your time at your hotel. It is cheaper than many other destinations however.