Losing my mind trying to pick honeymoon location!
 

Hello again. I've spent the past 2 weeks researching and pouring over this forum. Many thanks to all of the posts that so many have been gracious enough to provide. But, alas, I'm at a loss. I can't really find what I want, and am just going insane. <BR> <BR>Here's what I'm looking for: <BR> <BR>A nice resort that provides just about everthing, but not crowded and overpopulated like a Sandals, and more authentic caribbean decor than common hotel. A private jacuzzi or plunge pool would be especially nice, and a beachfront/near beach room, too. <BR> <BR>Seclusion would be great, but I'd also love to have access, by boat or car, to activities such as secluded beaches, snorkling, sightseeing, and shopping. I really like how Tortola and St. John sound as islands, but I can't find a place to stay that hasn't gotten bad reviews (www.where2stay.com and here) or isn't really expensive (I'm trying to stay around $2500-3000 for the 7-night stay, as airfare is crazy-$1600 for the two of us). <BR> <BR>Young Island sounds nice, but is there anything to do on St. Vincent? The Calabash on Grenada sounded pretty nice too, but the rooms are a bit back from the beach. Anguilla seems to be a great island too, and the only resort I could afford would be the Sonesta. Seemed kinda too hotel-ie to me...thoughts? What other island am I missing...Barbados? Turks/Caicos? I haven't had much luck with St. Lucia, and I question the experience outside of the resorts. I'd also like to avoid Mexico if possible. <BR> <BR>I'd really appreciate any help as I think I'm starting to go insane over this. It's a lot more than I ever expected! And I'd ask my finacee's opinions, but it's all going to be a surprise for her (she has enough to worry about!). <BR> <BR>Thanks again, <BR>Josh M. <BR>[email protected]

Josh-- <BR> <BR>You are going to have to make some compromises. You cannot get everything that you want in your price range. Think about it: if someplace was that perfect and that inexpensive, don't you think it would incredibly popular and crowded? <BR> <BR>Either raise the bar on your expenses or pare down the list of important attributes. I suggest that you pick an island first and then work on a place to stay. What is most important? Beaches? Speaking English? Food? Safety? DO you want to feel like are in the US or in another country? <BR> <BR>Good luck. <BR> <BR>Jeff

Jeff: <BR> <BR>Thanks for your response. I was afraid of that (although I don't think I'm being *that* cheap!). So, to answer your questions: I definitely don't want to feel like I'm in the US, but I don't speak any other languages :-(. And I'd have to go with location first, resort second. But even picking the island hasn't been easy. By the way, we're going May 7th, so I wasn't too sure of the temperature in Bermuda. <BR> <BR>Basically, I want an island that is not very touristy, commercialized, and full of high rise hotels. I'd like to be able to be on our own with a jeep for a few days or hop a boat to sightsee, shop, explore, hike, snorkle, and enjoy a beach all by ourselves. <BR> <BR>As for the accommodations, I'm more flexable. Although I do want there to be a good range of things offered or included (breakfast, sunset cruises, watersport equip., etc.) a unique (not American) setting. <BR> <BR>Frenchman's Cay was sounding good, and a lot of the posts here regard it very highly, but the recent reviews I read at www.where2stay.com were discouraging. The Calabash (Grenada) seems to be coming the closest as does Young Island. <BR> <BR>Thoughts? <BR> <BR>Thanks!!! <BR> <BR>Josh

Josh-- <BR> <BR>I didn't mean to imply that you are being cheap, just pointing out the realities of the situation. Sorry. <BR> <BR>St. Bart's and Anguilla sound like they would both fit your criteria perfectly, but they are both quite expensive. <BR> <BR>There are some very nice small resorts in the Bahamas (away from Nassau and Paradise Island). By May, it will be plenty warm there and the flying time will be shorter than going further south. <BR> <BR>The BVI sound nice, but I haven't been. Based on your criteria, I would avoid Jamaica, St. Thomas, Aruba, St. Martin and St. Lucia. <BR> <BR>I'll snoop around the Bahamas and let you know what I find. <BR> <BR>Jeff

Have you thought of St Croix? Check out <BR>www.st-croix.com/rentavilla/index.html <BR>The sugar mill villa is my favorite. Btw, I used to live on STX

Jeff, thanks for your help. I wasn't really implying what you thought, I'm just more surprised that everything is so expensive. Then again, I'm only 25, and have never been to the Caribbean at all... <BR> <BR>I really appreciate your help, and will check out the Bahamas further. I might also start looking into bed and breakfasts, as I really don't see us needing much more than a good breakfast before hanging at the beach, and cruising in the jeep around the island, etc. But the niceties of small resorts are pretty tempting too. I guess I just need to pick an island and decide from there...ugh! <BR> <BR>Thanks, <BR>Josh

As for St. Croix, my mom had gone years and years ago and thought it was very commercialized. I had been checking out the Buccanneer, and I'll check out your link as well. <BR> <BR>Thanks for the response! <BR> <BR>Josh

Just to clarify the $$$ amounts, I'm aiming for around $4000-4500 including airfare. The $2500-3000 I mentioned earlier was just for the stay at the resort in May. <BR> <BR>Thanks, <BR>Josh

<BR>Hi Josh, <BR>I can't think of a place that has everything you're looking for. St. Croix is a great island, but I don't think it suits your criteria at all. Great island to live on though! <BR> <BR>Have you considered Barbados? Look at the Casuarina in the St. Lawrence Gap. No private pool, but it's a really beautiful property. Lots of flowers, nice beach, activities, evening entertainment, etc. <BR> <BR>There's a lot to do on Barbados; natural sights abound, decent shopping, wonderful restaurants, watersports, historical attractions. Snorkeling stinks, but hey, you can't have everything. It's modern enough to have what you need, but you are very aware that you are in a foreign country. You can easily daytrip to St. Lucia or to the Grenadines & really make your holiday special. <BR> <BR>You've got plenty of time to plan yet, so don't worry. Travel agents will try to rush you to lock in your bucks, but as long as you have your plans in place by Feb, you should be fine. <BR> <BR>As for negative reviews, remember that there's no place that pleases everybody & everyone experiences a place differently. And some people have trouble adjusting to island time, expecting things to pop along like they do in the states, & totally defeating the purpose. <BR> <BR>Take a breath. Get yourself some rum & reggae. Don't get overwhelmed. <BR> <BR>I understand the desire for everything to be perfect, as our dreams about islands. Just pick a destination & go for it --- you'll have a great time wherever you land. You'll be so taken by the gorgeous water & sunsets that you won't mind if everything's not perfect. <BR> <BR>Oh, & by the way, Bermuda is wonderful in May. <BR> <BR>:-) Gin

Aruba seems ideal for you.. You can stay at the Costa Linda Beach Resort it is located on Aruba's and the Caribbeans widest expanse of white sandy beach. Believe me the beach infront of the Costa Linda is uncrowded. But what you would like the most is that Costa Linda is very Aruban like hotel with nice decor and a original Lobby. If you would like to stay at the Costa Linda ask for the three bedroom suite. A three bedroom suite does have a huge patio all beach front view with your own private yacuzzi. <BR> <BR>If you would like to have more info regarding Costa Linda which I think is the best place for you check out their website at: <BR> <BR>www.costalinda.com <BR> <BR>Hope this helps, and have wonderful honeymoon wherever you go..

I recently stayed at the Calabash and loved both the hotel and the island. The hotel only has 33 rooms-so all are very near the beach. The beach is quite private-which I liked. You can visit more populated beaches on the island. Grenada is not too touristy-lots to do-both beaches and rain forest. You can also arrange a day trip to the Tobago Cays. We chose Grenada over Young Island as there appeared to be more to do. The people were very friendly-a great vacation.

Thank you, thank you, thank you all for your responses!! <BR> <BR>Gin, thanks for chilling me down...I have been really overwhelmed and was afraid that I didn't have much time left. It's nice to know that I don't need to kill myself over this...yet. ;-D <BR> <BR>Arubasun: I'll check those out, thanks! <BR> <BR>Dorrie: What type of room did you get? Pool? Whirlpool? How was it? Lots to do? I'm still leaning towards the Calabash...how was Grenada? <BR> <BR>Thanks again to everyone!!! I'll keep on looking and looking, and one day, just like the good ol' fiancee, it'll all be clear. :-) <BR> <BR>Josh

JOsh <BR>relax! I think you got the bridegroom jitters. The caribbean is the perfect place for a honeymoon and there are so many places to choose from. It is hard to choose because each hotel and each island has so much to offer. Just make a choice based on what looks best to you and know that it will be a wonderful vacation and honeymoon wherever you choose. The truth is you really can't go wrong.

You are completely correct. However, when I start researching something I normally get in too deep. I have a picture in my head of what I want, and will find it, it's just a matter of time. I'm glad to hear you all say that I have some time...I'm much more laid back now!!! And there definitely are a LOT of choices! <BR> <BR>Thanks! <BR>Josh <BR>

Perhaps you might consider a cruise. They are the best value for your dollar as far as food, entertainment and choices of things to do. You might be able to get a good rate in May. Good luck!!

Josh, first off, do relax as everyone has said you have plenty of time. You sound like me, I usually start to enjoy the vacation before hand because I know things are done and dont have to worry about plans anymore. Trying to give you pure honesty here: I have been to Aruba, Grand Cayman, Australia, Bermuda, Tortola, St Thomas, St John, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, Antigua, Maui; I understand there are many more to see also. For what you have asked for I would probably recommend Tortola. It was my most recent trip back in May but also one of my most relaxing in a long time. The resorts that people have mentioned Frenchmans Cay (we stayed here), Long Bay, Heritage, Ft Recovery; all would be a good choice. The problem I think you will have is that each place will not satisfy all your needs. Tortola is safe, clean, and laid back; you need to choose a place that you believe you will like and then use the island as your resort. We never really stayed at the hotel very much, there is a lot of exploring to do by Jeep if you like. There are no timeshare sellers, no pressure for buying of local goods or anything similar to what I have seen on many other islands. I know that will make some mad but it is the truth. Your budget is actually pretty good in my opionion. You can still find a nice place for $100-$200 per night and be very happy. I am slightly biased because It was my most recent trip but I also have seen quite a few of the islands and would return to Tortola again in a minute. I have a trip report if you would like it also, let me know. <BR>Congrats and good luck. <BR>Rick

<BR>Hi Josh! <BR>Gin is right on the money about February. Pour yourself that rum punch, research the islands leisurely on the net & in magazines & start honing in on an island that really appeals to you. Late January or February usually brings a fare sale for dates thru May. That's the time to watch the airlines for rates to drop. Ask how long the fare is good, put a 24 hr. hold on both the air & your hotel(s), then buy your tickets/confirm your reservations for matching dates. You'll probably save over a package, especially if you were thinking of buying this early. <BR> <BR>Also, if you buy a package, get there & hate the place, you're stuck. Booking on your own w/ a deposit allows you to move to another hotel if you're not happy. Just stay the night or two to cover the deposit. I rarely stay at a place that requires full payment in advance. <BR> <BR>Have a wonderful time planning your honeymoon, hon! <BR> <BR>Don't worry bout a ting, cause every little ting's gonna be alright. : - ) <BR> <BR>~PP

Rick, <BR> <BR>Thanks for your response. I definitely am considering Tortola a lot as well as Grenada. <BR> <BR>I had read some great things and some NOT so great things (www.where2stay.com) about Frenchmans which has thrown me off a bit. I wish their site had better pics of the rooms, etc. Do you or anyone else have any Frenchmans pics? <BR> <BR>I'd love to read your trip report. <BR> <BR>Thanks again for your suggestions! <BR> <BR>Josh

Josh, I will send the report. I do not have any pics to share though, sorry. As you know there are different opinions about everything in life, keep that in mind. I thought FC was nice, clean, and reasonable for what you get. Some of the best views of Drake channel and very good size rooms. The only complaint as you will see is I thought we could have used a/c sometimes late in the night but maybe I am just spoiled. I would stay again at FC. I would probably rather save the extra money and stay at Heritage as I think you will also read below. The only thing people have to complain about that I have read is about management. The reason alot of people have complained is because the couple had a life altering event in that their son got shot while visiting St Thomas and is paralized for life now at 19 yrs old. We were there the week after it happened and the couple was very distraught, but who wouldnt be right. I would imagine that they are dealing with their grief better now and it probably isnt an issue. Hope this post helps again. By the way where are you flying from? If it is west coast, you may want to concider Hawaii although it may stretch your wallet a bit. <BR> <BR>

I think that I sound a bit like you... when I research something I tend to research it to death. I had researched the islands pretty extensively as my fiance and I are planning a destination wedding. Based on the 'net and board such as these - and a couple of personal recommendations from friends - we chose St John for our destination. It combined the best of both in my eye - touristy things like shopping (although it was very limited) and nature. We stayed at Gallows Point - which allowed us to have an oceanview room at a reasonable cost (we traveled in May, which was offseason) and also since they were condo units we saved on annoying little things like snacks, breakfast and lunch (and we could have dinner there too if we were too tired). <BR>St JOhn is a beautiful island, very "tropical" in the steroetypical sense of the term. There were a couple of beaches within walking distance, wonderful snorkling off our porch, and a very laid back atmosphere. Not as touristy as St Thomas, Jamaica or the Caymens - but not as remote feeling as the BVIs (which made for an interesting day trip). There are villas in the hills for the ultimate in privacy (wink wink) - which we are considering for our honeymoon. Caneel Bay might be worth considering for you - they may have a honeymoon package which brings down the rates some. <BR>Check out gallowspointresort.com for pictures and info. www.usvi-on-line.com has a very active forum and links to other forums for other islands with full trip reports. <BR> <BR>Whatever you choose - just remember that you are going to be on your honeymoon and that you should be concentrating on ways that will enable you to spend the most time with your honey!!

Josh- Have you looked into Biras Creek on Virgin Gorda? I was there this summer and loved it...All the meals are included, it is very secluded, the staff is wonderful, it is definetly authentic and not to tourist(ie?).. if you would like more information please let me know... www.biras.com good luck!!

Thanks again for everyone's recent replies! Unfortunately, Caneel and Biras are out of my price range. I looked at Gallows Point but we really wanted to be able to get to the beach right from our room. There's just something about looking out your door/window/patio/balcony and seeing the beach right there. <BR> <BR>I'm getting settled, now that everyone has told me to calm down and relax! I'm glad I'm not the only one out ther who researches things to death. <BR> <BR>So far, though, I keep coming back to Grenada and Tortola. I have yet to hear a single person say anything bad about Grenada...but I'll give things some time to mull around in my head until I make a decision. And when I do, i'm sure you'll all know. ;-D <BR> <BR>Thanks again, <BR>Josh

I am a Sandals person all the way and have never found Sandals resorts Crowded. Try St Lucias Sandals Golf Resort and try the new suites on The Bluffs, you have your own plung pool and you are right on the ocean.You can even go nude because nobody else see's you. It is very private yet close enough to enjoy company if you like.

Josh, In search of the Perfect Paradise can and is crazy-making but as I read this thread, it was interesting to see you process the info! Since you have narrowed it down a bit, something that you might not be aware of is that Tortola is not necessarily what you are looking for. Although I do enjoy Frenchman's Cay and it is one of the better places to stay on Tortola with wonderful hosts Pam and Terry - and has some pretty good priced packages - it is more of a "jeep about" island with what can be pretty rough surf and not the white sand and tourquoise water that you might expect. Overall, Tortola's beaches can be disappointing and you will need to travel, commute, trek to beaches - and there are few really wonderful ones there but lots of choices on nearby islands. Since you are obviously on a budget, you will need to plan for the additional rental vehicle and day trips to the other islands - that can quickly add to what is seemingly an affordable location and put the total cost right in the Biras Creek category 'cause everything is "extra." And the 18% service charge+tax takes a big bite! I love the BVI's, don't get me wrong, but some of the "out" islands can and do offer a much better experience! Someone elsewhere posted www.bestresorts.com and it gives some wonderful info and pix of some of the more upscale resorts. Now they may not offer something in your budget or not but it is worth a look-see! If you see something that appeals, check the individual web sites of that resort and see if they offer a package, a honeymoon special or even some "deal" which might work for you! You might also want to consider something like Secret Harbour on St. Thomas in the USVI with great beachfront accomodations, a lovely beach and lots of options for more "cosmopolation" activities if you choose or easy access to the great beaches of St. John and the Nat'l Park and day trips to the BVI at a lesser price than the BVI and a laid-back "caribb" atmosphere that many places won't offer! For many, it is an ideal compromise - no plunge pools tho! Another place to look in the VI's might be at www.mcLaughlinanderson.com. They manage many villas and might have just the right spot for you! Good luck with your continued search!

Hi Josh, <BR> <BR>I have been researching Antigua to death because I am going there over the holidays (I haven't been there yet, though, so this answer is purely based on my research). <BR> <BR>It does seem, however, that Antigua has many of the things you are looking for -- beautiful beaches, rugged terrain,duty-free shopping in St. Johns, sites of historical interest at Nelson's Dokyard, great snorkeling and SCUBA diving (that's why I'm going), friendly people, beautiful resorts. While everything is outlandishly expensive over the winter holidays, by May you are getting into another price category. <BR> <BR>From what I can see on various websites, here's a sampling of what you can get: <BR> <BR>St. James's Club (southeast shore), April 16, 2001 to December 20, 2001 rates PER ROOM(not per person), European plan: Club room $250, Premium room $300, Suite $400 + 18.50% tax and service charge. The club seems to have tons of amenities -- swimming pools, tennis courts, a stable on site, SCUBA and water sports, etc. It's supposed to be a five-star resort. Link to their website through "wheretostay.com". <BR> <BR>Allegro Pineapple Beach (northeast shore), all-inclusive, April 15 to December 20, 2001 rates PER PERSON for five or more days: garden view room $184, water side room $184, beach front room $207. <BR> <BR>Siboney Beach Club (northwestern shore on famous Dickenson Beach)rates according to Fodors.com hotel guide are $275 to $400 per one-bedroom suite depending on which plan you choose. I have read unanimously positive reviews of this place, it's supposed to be very romantic and next to the Coconut Grove restaurant which is quite well known on the island. <BR> <BR>You can also check out Blue Waters resort, which is said to be very nice. <BR> <BR>I can always tell you more about the place when I come back in January. <BR> <BR>Anyaway, it's food for thought... <BR> <BR>Good luck with your plans. I know how harrowing it can be to decide - -I've been steeped in the process for two weeks, mainly because of price and compatibility (I'm going with my father) considerations! <BR> <BR>Best, Romy

Josh: Here's your first unfavorable report about Grenada. Although it wasn't necessarily bad, it's not one of our favorite islands. Went there last year and was not impressed. People were hot and cold as far as friendliness. Calabash quite nice, we had dinner there but didn't see the rooms. Also, Cinnamon Hill in Grenada had a great location, but not on a beach. We stayed a the Coyoba, which we would give a mid-range rating too. Been to quite a few islands and one of our favorites is Turks & Caicos (Provo) Stayed at the Ocean Club and loved it. Quiet and right on the beach. Sounds like you're overwhelmed with all your research. It's easy to do while sitting at your computer to get TOO much information. Anguilla is suppose to be great too...hope to make that our next stop. Good luck!

Josh, after reading more info from you I am going to rescind my advice on Tortola. I am in agreement with Karen that it is a jeep island and probably not your choice if you want to wake and look at the beach as you have stated. I think we overlooked the lack of most beautiful beaches in the world on Tortola for everything else it has to offer. Once you decide where to go and actually come back from vacation I would love to hear if the island you chose fit the bill. I have been in search of the same place as you describe and have yet to find it. Life is a trade off; you accept some no so great for other things that are great. Good luck again.

Wow! What an array of responses! :-) I'll take the advise on Tortola...that eliminates one! Although I do plan on renting a Jeep, I do want the option of being able to stay at the hotel and enjoy it! <BR> <BR>Romy, thanks for the advice on Antigua. I think I might have forgotten to check that one out. <BR> <BR>I'm sorry to hear about Grenada, although I still won't cross it off. <BR> <BR>Karen: Nice to hear from you...have you been EVERYWHERE, or what?! ;-D I respect and have used a lot of your reviews. <BR> <BR>Well, since everyone has told me that I still have quite a bit of time, I'm going to sit back and write everything out on paper, do a spreadsheet or something, and take my time. <BR> <BR>I will MOST DEFINITELY let everyone know what and why I decide, and post a full report in May! <BR> <BR>Thank you all so very much for your help, advice, personal emails, reports, and pictures!!! A great forum....I love the Internet!!! :-) <BR> <BR>Josh

Hi Josh-Well you are ahead of the game because you listed your criteria. We have been going to the caribbean-2 times a year since l993. <BR>We love beautiful beaches, the less people the better. <BR>Our favorites,Cap Juluca and the island of Anquilla,we met some travel writers there in 1995 and they told me no other hotel comes close.www.news.ai is a informative news letter with phot0s and <BR>links to all sites. <BR>We have since enjoyed Little Dix,Caneel bay, La Sammana,Jalousie Hilton and last but not least my other recommendation Jumby Bay. You are right no to include Tortola-its hotels and beaches do not compare. So I agree with Karen-Cap Juluca or Jumby Bay. They are magical places and will spoil you. On Anguilla you have lots of beaches to explore-take a ferry to shop in Marigot,St.Martin or take a day trip to ST. Barts.From Jumby -located on its own private island,its a short 10 minute private ferry to Antigua. <BR>Don"t drive yourself nuts-you have a wealth of info to look into. Have fun!

What A dope-I posted this to the wrong person. It was for Anthony-sorry Josh.

Josh -on Anguilla check out Franjapani you can get info from www.news.ai go to the hotel section. It gets great reviews <BR>and ofers some good honeymoon deals. It is on Meads Bay.this I belive is in the Sonesta price range-Not to confuse you but check it out.

Josh, <BR> My husband and I just got back from our honeymoon 3 weeks ago. We stayed at Caneel Bay resort in St. John, USVI. It was undoubtedly the most wonderful vacation I've ever been on. We spent about $5000 for the week. I know it's pricey, but it is really worth it. Our airfare was around the same price as what you have found. The thing is, you could do Caneel Bay for much less than what we did. We stayed in one of the most expensive rooms -- the premium rooms -- which are directly on the beach. We paid $450 per night for the room, and then we had a package (Classic Carribean). For a room farther away from the beach you could pay as little as $250 per night. The resort was wonderful -- 7 beautiful beaches. The food was fabulous, the service was great. Our room had a very Caribbean feel to it. The resort is very private. There would be times when we were the only ones on the beach. We didn't have a jacuzzi or private pool which I thought I would miss, but it didn't even cross my mind once I got there. We rented a jeep for a day and drove all over St. John which was a lot of fun. I know I am rambling, but it really is a wonderful place, and we can't wait to go back. Please e-mail me if you want more information and check out Caneel Bay's website: www.caneelbay.com <BR>Good luck! <BR>Becca

Hi Josh, this is a little late, but I would serious recommend Anse Chastenet in St. Lucia. We've been there twice, once on our honeymoon - it was fantastic. See www.ansechastenet.com. <BR> <BR>It has everything on-site, and has all inclusive packages, which we loved. On a honeymoon, you do NOT want to be wondering about the price of everything, trying to keep track of how much you've spent, etc. It also has caribbean decor, fantastic views, private beaches, top notch scuba diving and snorkeling right off the resort beach(!) and seclusion. It's the opposite of Sandals St. Lucia! <BR> <BR>Some of the things it doesn't have from your list is: private plunge pools or shopping (the captial Castries isn't worth the day trip). It's also quite quiet (not lots of partying), which may or may not be good, depending on your preferences. <BR> <BR>Even better, there are some great package deals, if you live near Canada, or can get to Toronto or Montreal cheaply. Air Canada has 1 week all inclusive to Anse Chastenet (air, hotel, transfers, etc.) from about $2500-$4000 (depending on room - the $4,000 are astonishing) CANADIAN dollars, per person (i.e. $1700-2700 US)! See www.aircanadavacations.ca. <BR> <BR>Anyway, just my two cents. We'd go back a third time, but thought we should check out some other Caribbean locations before going back. <BR> <BR>Best of luck, <BR> <BR>Mike

Josh, <BR> <BR>I noticed you mentioned Anguilla in one post. My husband and I visited Anguilla about 2 years ago and it has been our favorite island and we have been to a few. The other I would suggest to you would be St. Barts. We loved it when we were a little younger. Try Frangipani on Anguilla since it is a lovely small resort right on one of the best beaches. I can find the web page if you want to e mail me directly. You can find a villa on St. Barts with a pool and daily maid service. The restaurants are fabulous on both these islands. <BR> <BR>Kathy

Josh, <BR> <BR>I can only speak from my most recent experience and last spring I vacationed on St. Lucia and stayed at the Ladera Resort. If this is going to be a surprise and you want your wife to basically fall over when she sees the views from your room this is the place to be. The weather, snorkeling, people, and island is beautiful. Keep in mind that this is the carribean so things won't be exactly like they are in the US but I consider that to be a benefit. You need to check out www.laderaresort.com. I am sure that you will be just as intrigued as we were. Trust me it is worth it!!!! <BR> <BR>Juli

The Buccaneer on St. Croix is excellent. My wife and I have been a number of times. Also, on our honeymoon we went to the Jalousie in St. Lucia. It was great. The only caveat, given your goal, is that aside from the rain forest, there is not that much to do outside of the resort. Let me know if you have any questions.

Josh have you talked to a good travel agent in your area. Alot of resorts offer honeymoon packages, and a good travel agent would be able to give you some guidance. Also they can do a bit of leg work for you if you give them the info on what you want. <BR> <BR>Second, I would suggest as pretty close to fitting your description, a small resort on Nassau called Compas Point, great beach there and the accomodations are small bungalows right on the beach, very brightly colored, cute and romantic. <BR> <BR>Compas Point is owned by Chris Blacwell of Island Records and it is small and very well done, attention to detail is formost. Service is excellent and they have one of the best restaurants on the island. <BR> <BR>YOu could stay there and do a bit of island hoping over to Paradise Island (ok it's a sort hop) but for a day hanging out at Atlantis would be fun. <BR> <BR>Or you could take the ferry over to Harbour Island for the day. <BR> <BR>Compas Point has a sister facility on Harbour Island called Pink Sands which would also fit your criteria. The resort is right on the beach overlooking the most beautiful stretch of ocean and pink sand beach, and even during high season the beach is mostly deserted (3 miles long). <BR> <BR>Also there are lots of small cays off the island for a day away from everything, the resort can even pack a lunch for you, then you go to the dock and ask a water taxi to take you to a deserted island for the day and come and get you in the evening. <BR> <BR>Harbour Island is very small and you don't even need the jeep, you can walk everywhere. <BR> <BR>www.where2stay.com has lots of pictures of the resorts and some info on the island and of course prices and your time frame (May, right?) would be off season so the prices would be better and you would get more for your dollar. <BR> <BR>I have been all over the Carribean, St. Martin, St. Barth, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Puerto Rico, and I find that the Bahamas depending on the island can give you everything and be easier to get to. <BR> <BR>Hope this helps and if you need any more info, please let me know. <BR> <BR>tweedy <BR>Hope this helps some <BR> <BR>