We are starting to plan our vacation for next July.Husband and myself have been to Paradise island and loved the turquoise water at the beach. We would like to take our children (ages 14 and 17) there but I am also thinking about Aruba or Grand Cayman. I had thought about Atlantis but I dont know how relaxing that would be. In short I guess I am looking for the best beach and hotel with a great pool that wont break the bank. Any thoughts?

What about Turks and Caicos. I heard the water is beautiful!

If your kids are totally into water, then Atlantis is the place to go, however it is pricy. <BR>Between Cayman and Aruba, and considering the ages of your children, I'd go to Aruba. It is totally safe, and there are many activities that they would enjoy (snorkeling, jeep tours, horsebackriding, ATV tours, jet skiing, etc). <BR>Toni

I went to Aruba and loved it! My fiance and I stayed at the Divi Mega All-Inclusive resort. The beach was 10 feet from our room, the water bright turquoise, and the weather perfect everyday. It was affordable too-all-inclusive! I also recommended this to my parents who went last month. They liked it, especially because my two teenage brothers could go off and do what they wanted, due to the all-inclusive aspect. Nice pool. A++ Beach.

If you're looking for something that won't break the bank (depending on what that is for you), you may want to choose something other than the Cayman Islands. I've heard it's expensive. There was a long thread about this a month or so ago so you might want to check that out for yourself.

NOTHING is more expensive than St. Lucia!!! My goodness, 2 HALF turkey sandwiches with one water and one juice... $36.oo

Thanks for the advice. I think we will try the hyatt or radisson in Aruba.

Beaches Turks & Caicos is a great resort especially for families! 9 restaurants, kids pools with water slides, beautiful beach with excellent snorkeling and diving. The island is one of the most beautiful I have been to.....people are very gracious! My husband and I are going back for our 2nd trip Sept. 1 and can't wait!

St. Lucia isn't necessarily expensive. However, if you go to a couple of those high end resorts, you will pay high end prices. We found some places out and about with wonderful food, drink, and atmosphere and good prices. You just need to get out and find them.

Rubes...My, my, my...where did you eat in St. Lucia?

Rubes, there are DEFINITELY more expensive islands than St. Lucia, i.e., St. Barth's, Caymans, Bahamas, etc.

Go to Aruba and stay at the Aruba Grand Beach Resort. The Olympic sized pool is gorgeous and the white sand beach is right off the pool deck. Water sports are nearby. There is a sidewalk running along the beach behind all the hotels located on Palm Beach. We chose the place last year via internet and when we got there (spent a week), we were so pleased - would go to the same place next time. Avery relaxing and user friendly place for water lovers.

Kam everyone here has favorite places to go and you will get lots of great info. <BR> <BR>My favorite is Runaway Hill Club and the website is www.runawayhill.com <BR>Beautiful beach, pool, great food and small intimate feel to the place. <BR> <BR>Have a great vacation.