Hi...I need some help & ideas to help us decide. Next yr. in July, it will be our 30th wedding anniversary. I want to go someplace really special. My husband & I both like basically the same things. We like a nice calm, clear, sandy beach, lots of flowers & greenery around, & some wildlife, esp. birds. We don't like really touristy places with highrises. We are not real party ppl but we don't like to be too segrated(if that is the right word) either. We like a beach with trees close by so we can sit in the shade. We have stayed in Dom. Rep; Puerto Plata region in a property where the restaurant was almost right on the ocean. That was heaven but we would like to go someplace different this time. I had thought of Fiji but it would take a whole day to get there & the same to get home again, not to mention the cost, so I am considering someplace in the Caribbean. I went to Negril beach one yr. with my daughter's high school band & I loved it there but I read so many horror stories on here & other travel forums. I would really appreciate it if some of you could give me some ideas to look into & consider. I thank you in advance. <BR> Michelle

Sounds like you would love Bermuda. We went there for our 10th anniversary last May and really enjoyed it. I think it would fit all your criteria. Happy 30th! from another Michelle.

British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts/Nevis, perhaps parts of Puerto Rico and Guadeloupe.

We have done P.P. and would definately reccommend the Mexican Carribean over P.P. I assume you know that your are entering a hot time of year in the Carribean. The place we would recommend is Akumal Mexico. The lagoon style beach is just great with snorkeling just off shore. The best place to stay is Casitas Akumal 1-800-5akumal. Will be mostly Italian and Mexican tourists that time of year--not that it is bad but you may find it difficult to find English speaking tourists. If you are on a budget consider Isla Mujeres--7 miles from Cancun. We have a 15 page travel document on the Island which we can email if you request dan and ginny

Guana Island (part of the BVI's) fits your desires perfectly! Check out scubamom.com for a review. We were there in March 99 & it is total paradise in a quiet romantic nature preserve setting.

Petit St Vincent (also reviewed by Scubamom)

Hi michelle, <BR> <BR>I would suggest the Hyatt in Aruba. A beautiful resort, especially for relaxing. there is a casino there as well as a nightly band, but walks on the beach are just phenomenal. Wind always blows. No bugs, tough on golf. If you are in to snorkling or diving there are boats available at that beach or close by. However, Curacao, the next island East has great snorkling and diving right from the beach. Have fun wherever you go. <BR> <BR>panama don