I realize the short answer is that they are wanting the impossible, however, I still have to try and solve this issue. I work in Atlanta for a large commercial real estate firm. For the past two years we have taken about 5 brokers from different companies on a short (2-3 night) island trip as a thank you for doing large (or many as the case may be) deals with us.

The first trip they took, they went and stayed at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. They loved it. The following year, they went toand stayed at Half Moon in Montego Bay. They thought the trip was just okay. What was wrong you ask? Well, it had too much island flare. Yes, I know, do not even get me started. They were bored. Also, they thought the flight from Atlanta to Montego Bay (non-stop flight) was almost too long for them.

Now considering that we got everyone ocean front suites, I am not sure why they were unhappy. They thought the rooms were nice enough but too secluded. I had planned for them to do the waterfall trip to Ocho Rios but that was a no go because they had to get on the bus. I heard a few comments that they thought staying at the Ritz would have been a better place. I guess, they would have preferred the Americanized hotel over Half Moon and looking back, maybe I should have gone ahead and booked them there but I thought the layout of Half Moon was much nicer. I think they also have in their minds that The Ritz will always about most resorts (except Four Seasons) just because they know the name.

Regardless, they do not want to be on the airplane any longer than a trip to Jamaica. Also, they want an island that has is more Americanized. They also would prefer an island with Casinos. Actually they really would love for Atlantis to open hotels in other places than the Bahamas because they want the Atlantis vibe without going back to the Bahamas since they have already been there. I was also told that they would love to do catamarn trips or snorkeling etc but they are not willing to take a bus to go there. They would prefer to leave directly from the resort. They did the dolphin thing (again I know) at the Bahamas and the trip there was fine for them. I also need to have a golf course preferable on the resort but at least very near it and many activities to choose from.

Any ideas. I know I am searching for the impossible. They even mentioned maybe even the Keys but the Keys do not have a mega resort that I know of that would keep them close to the action. Maybe Ocean Key but still. I thought of Aruba or the Caymans but Aruba I think is an hour longer trip.

I also realize my post sounds disgruntled and yes I am annoyed with them so sorry for sounding so grumpy.

Thanks in advance.

How about Puerto Rico? Lots of mega-hotels (e.g. Ritz Carlton), with casinos, right on the beach. Usually a non-stop flight, and the casino/hotels are in Isla Verde, very close to the airpot. Lots of city-style amenities on site or very close (don't know about golf, though). And, it's in AMERICA (thought there is a decidedly Latin/Caribbean vibe...).

Good luck!

What a shame that these people are so unappreciative of what you have done for them. My first thought was also the Keys or elsewhere in Florida.

It sounds as if they don't care for the true Caribbean experience, so my only suggestion is to keep returning to the Bahamas. What a bummer for you, beachdreams.

Callaloo's suggestion of Puerto Rico, particularly San Juan, is a good one. That is, if they don't complain that there is too much Spanish spoken.

Thanks for the fast responses. When I heard the complaints, my first thought was "what a bunch of spoiled brats!" Here si this free trip and they are complaining??!!?? Then I thought, well if you want america, why leave it? Pointless.

Anyway, I had considered San Juan. Forgot to mention it though. Since I have only been through San Juan, what is the nightlife like there and do the casinos have enough life for them to be happy and are they plenty of activities? I am completely ignorant about San Juan so forgive me. Also, they must have 5 star dining but no AI's.

I would recommend that you contact a good travel agency as this is part of what they do. They can tailor the trip based on the needs of your group and are familar with where and what island/resort would be best.

We always use a travel agent for these events, however, I wanted to get the board's opinions before calling them up. Many times I get more useful information this way. Thanks

Had to add my two cents - what a bunch of ungrateful poops! If someone offered me a trip somewhere tropical as a thank you I'd just ask - when's the flight? And Cayman as beautiful and Americanized as it is, no casinos. Good luck!

No dont send them to Grand Cayman, the food eill be too good, the people too friendly and the beaches to beautiful. These people have nerve. I hear Staten Island is lovely this time of year, tell them its a direct flight into JFK, and its only about a 2 hour flight.

Well, Staten Island might be too warm for these folks if they are travelling within the next few months. I was going to suggest coming to sunny Canada - Baffin Island in particular. Dog sledding,ice fishing, polar bears and the best thing is they could access all that from their very own igloos - no bus required! But alas,no casino I am aware of. Sorry for being cheeky - thought you might need a chuckle!

Cayman is the nearest location, non-stop service on Delta from ATL and very close.

People forget that Puerto Rico is a lot further away than Cayman or Jamaica, and as for Aruba.... a LOT further away.

So, as regards proximity to the USA, Cayman is your best choice.

Cayman, on the Seven Mile Beach area, is pretty Americanised, although we have no casinos.