Dana

Planning a our first trip to the caribbean. We are considering Cat or Eleuthera Islands in the Bahamas or St John in the USVI. <BR> <BR>The Bahamas vs USVI appear to be two very different types of island experiences. We just want to get away to a place where life is simple and moves slowly. We love exploring local life. <BR> <BR>Any suggestions? <BR>

Doug

Hi Dana, Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas offers the safe, relaxed and laid back and comfortable pace of life you are seeking. Lots of great beaches to visit and very few tourists. There is only 1 traffic light on the island and it's not working . Never a crowd or rush to go anywhere, you set your own pace. You also have 2 neighboring islands to visit while in Eleuthera, Spanish Wells and Harbour Island are great day trips to plan and just a water taxi ride away. If you need any other info on Eleuthera feel free to email at [email protected] for photos and places to stay. Enjoy! Doug

Dave

Hi Dana - <BR>Can't speak to Bahamas and St John does fill your bill. If your criteria really is "local experience but comfortable & safe" I can highly recommend that you also check out the BVI (next door to St John). <BR> <BR>Life is indeed simple and slow moving in the BVI. There is full employment, no ghettos and lots of warm folks. <BR> <BR>It's "under the crown" and the British influence has led to a polite, slightly reserved culture (but not stuffy). <BR> <BR>Not a "jet set" destination, no nude beaches, no high-rises, no discos/nightclubs, no casinos. Absolutely not Americanized. <BR> <BR>Actually it's just one stop further on the same ferry that you'd likely use to get to St John (from St Thomas). Inn room costs can range from under $100/night for "basic" to $200-300/night for a nice resort and upward for the high-end resorts. Villas generally run from $800/wk to $1,500/wk for 2. <BR> <BR>Check it out. <BR>Dave

AbacoPeach

I think Abaco (outer islands, Bahamas)is just what you are looking for! Nothing like "Island Time!" Feel free to email me for more info.

AbacoPeach

Oh, one more thing... Go to abacoboard.com. This message board is full of information and the people who frequent it are more than willing to answer any question you may have and are fun people also!!!

joan

Dana, I second Doug's recommendation for Eleuthera. We had two romantic trips there, and a third to Harbour island (off the coast of Eleuthera). We rented private homes...imagine spending all day exploring completely deserted beaches, snorkeling, and coming home to your own villa, opening a cold Kalik beer, and hopping in the outside shower. Safe, slow, lovely people! To find a villa, email Doug above or go to www.vacationspot.com (we stayed at Calypso, which I believe is still on the website there) <BR> <BR>BTW, I've been to St. John, camped at Maho Bay, but even though the island is more green and mountainous, I would suggest that Eleuthera is the slower, simpler of the two.

Lizzie

I would suggest that you look into the out islands first. We do not sail but my husband and son scuba dive and love goin gto the out islands. We have always felt safe--few people, no cars, quiet times..what more could you ask for ?