we have 4 small families looking to go somewhere warm and be pampered. we would like a villa with it's own pool, hot tub, beach (if possible) and meals provided. our kids are 3, 3, 11 and 12, so either kid's activities or a sitter would also be required . and, of course, we don't want to spend a fortune!

check out St John in the USVI's..

It sounds like you are looking for a staffed villa and there are many to choose from in Jamaica.

Tiverton House, who generously contributes here, has properties available....jamaicaescapes.com (I hope !)

And Villas by Linda Smith has many properties that would suit your needs.

I just returned from a stay at two of the villas that Linda represents. It was a wonderful vacation....and the pampering was something I'll never forget !

If I can answer any specific questions, I'll be happy to help.

Marion

There are luxury villas in the USVI with pools and incredible views. You'll find them on both STT AND STJ. Many offer a photo tour online.

i like jamaica, but my husband is unsure regarding safety issues??

Hopefully some of the truly knowledgeable Jamaica experts will eloquently answer your concerns about safety !

You will surely hear from those who will go anyplace BUT Jamaica. SO sad !!

I can only tell you that I travel as a single woman and have happily spent a total of 6 weeks in Jamaica in the last two years.

But then...I have lived in major metropolitan areas of the US.

I guess it depends on how you define "safe"

Marion

You will hear from both sides of the Jamaica safety issue - there was another post about it earlier today (renting a villa, etc)

If you want a villa that with a staff you should also consider Barbados. Villas there will have a maid and a cook. Look at wimco.com

Have fun whatever you decide!

Another vote here for Jamaica. I have been several times and have taken my daughter and have never been concerned about safety. I don't think you can find a better value for a fully staffed villa, and from what I hear, the food is fabulous. I hope to stay at one of Tiverton's villas in June (waiting for an airfare break) so I have been researching them carefully. I have emailed some people who have stayed there and the reports are glowing about the staff, the villas, the wonderful food. If Sasha (Tiverton) doesn't have what suits your needs, he will steer you to someone who does. You should browse his site at www.jamaicaescapes.com For a larger group, look at Mar Blue. If you want to spend more, Moon Dance Villas in Negril are beautiful and on a great beach. The kids would love it there.

You might check out Beach Court Villa on Anguilla. www.beachcourtvilla.com. It is on the beach at Shoal Bay Beach East. has pool and tennis court. Brand new and looks nice. Not sure they have a chef but there is one on Anguilla Irad who is excellent and does hire out. Formerly owned a restaurant. Think the owner is Stephen and am sure he can arrange everything you want includung baby sitter services.

As far as safety, I think you'll have to worry more about the little kids and the pool or "cliffs" from your villa.