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-   -   Need help again!! (https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/need-help-again-1019825/)

ejtipton Jul 12th, 2014 05:37 PM

Need help again!!
 
I know, I know another which island question! I appreciate any input so here it goes.
Planning way in advance for travel in May, LOVE the islands and can never decide which one next.
We live in Grayton Beach Fl so miles of beach not top priority but always nice.
List of my favorites in order
Grenada
St Lucia
Jost Van Dyke
Jamaica
Roatan
St John
Puerto Rico
Mayan Riviera
Prefer lush mountains over flat, love to snorkel and lime.
Thinking Tobago or Dominica, Tortola with day trips to neighbors looked at Isla De Providencia but it is quiet the track.
Thank you again!

RoamsAround Jul 13th, 2014 03:44 AM

If you like lush mountains and don't mind smaller darker sand beaches beaches your instincts to check out Dominica are spot on.

Alson consider St. Kitts & nevis - you can easily travel between the two for a day trip or even split your time and stay on both islands.

FYI - snorkeling is not a strong suit on any of those is;ands.

Odin Jul 14th, 2014 03:52 AM

Where did you end up going on the other vacations that you were planning in past years where the same question was asked? Don't want to suggest islands you have been to in the meantime.

Tobago is a lush island with quite good snorkelling, but the mountainous part is quite remote. Guadeloupe has a very lush part of the island, Basse Terre and the famous Jacques Cousteau marine reserve. AA fly direct from Miami.

ejtipton Jul 14th, 2014 06:34 AM

Thank you guys, I really love to hear different opinions.

Odin, We've been to above mentioned islands with Grenada and Jamaica as repeats.And side trip to Carriacou and Tobago Cays.Loving the look of Basse Terre but a little concerned about language barriers. Would bring guide book and learn what I can before hand.

Have also looked at Saba with Anguilla but that was starting to get pricey with just travel expenses. But maybe its worth it?

Have been intrigued by Dominica for years but it seems like it deserves more than a 7-8 day visit. we love to rent a jeep and explore. I always get overwhelmed when starting to plan Dominica trip.

Bless up!

Odin Jul 14th, 2014 07:41 AM

Sorry I didn't read the thread properly. I understand the concern about the language barrier, a little French is definitely useful on Guadeloupe, but alot of people speak English, especially the younger ones and those in the tourist industry. Some people we met didn't even come from Guadeloupe but from neighbouring English speaking islands. Think about how many Americans go to France but don't speak French. If you like St Lucia, you will like Martinique and Guadeloupe.

You can travel easily between Dominica and Guadeloupe, on the Express des Iles. Dominica and Saba are on my list of places to go.

rogandgee Jul 15th, 2014 06:55 AM

For mountains, Dominica. For both lush mountains and beaches and lots to do, hands down St. Lucia. No language problems there either.

vicnroy Jul 15th, 2014 01:32 PM

Based on your favorites list, I think Tortola is a good choice. Has the same feel as St. John, and of course the snorkeling around the VIs is unparalleled.

Nevis is one of our favorites (three visits, and married there): lush, mountainous, very very quiet and very easy-going, tons of liming. But, snorkeling is next to nil.

ejtipton Jul 16th, 2014 09:43 AM

Thank you! Everyone's input is much appreciated.
Think I've narrowed down (narrowed being a bit sarcastic) to
Dominica, pros untouched beauty, much to do. Cons harder to navigate and have to change hotels food maybe not so good?
Tortola, pros good food, easy trips to other islands, easy to get around. Cons less lush and busier.
Bequia, pros old Caribbean, easy to explore other islands, good food. Cons, harder to get to and maybe too small?
Still have Tobago on the brain also. St Lucia is out just because we did a repeat trip last time and want to see somewhere new this year.
My question is what would you do and why? I know only we can decide but love to hear others input,

eastenderusvi Jul 16th, 2014 01:10 PM

I also look for things other than beaches when I travel. On your list, Dominica is the place I would choose. Not sure why you think the food is not good? They have fresh veg and fruits, fish, etc. Maybe if you don't like Creole cooking? There are lots of eco-camp/hotels with hiking and hot springs.

Another two-for would be St Vincent (volcanic and lush) with Bequia- ferry service between the two. The farmers from St Vincent come to sell their goods at the market on Bequia.

ejtipton Jul 16th, 2014 02:04 PM

I didn't really word that well. I'm sure it's some of the freshest one can get!
Although not every night we do like to fix up and find some fine dining options.
However feel just as content with a road side stand. Although not partiers we do like to venture out a lil in the evenings.


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