I would greatly appreciate any information/suggestions anyone can give that will help me find the perfect romantic excursion for me and my girlfriend. I want to takke her on a surprise trip in November to propose to her. I am looking for a luxurious, romantic setting that has a strong sense of privacy. I would also like to combine that with a vibrant culture. I am not ultra-concerned with cost but I am definitely not looking for a big resort. I want something a bit off the beaten path while still have a villa/hotel that will treat us handsomely. A good spa and a private plunge pool would definitely be a plus.<BR><BR>Thanks in advance

I'd vote for St. Barts, and stay at Le Toiney or other similar property. Good Luck, but be careful, you're on the tail end of hurricane season.

What about Ladera in St. Lucia? No spa, but all your other requirements are met. Can't think of a more spectacular setting for romance!

Definitely Le Toiney, St. Barths. Only 12 ocean view villas, each exquisitely private with private pool. The whole island has no chains, tour groups, busses or any of that nonsense. Everything on this island is absolutely wonderful. If you live in the NYC area by all means take the nonstop flight straight to St. Martin and then the 10 minute puddle jumper from there, to avoid Miami or PR transfers. Plan on about $1000 per day though including hotel, meals, jeep, airfare, tips and extras -- and well, well worth it.

PS to the above. I agree that November is an iffy month -- we went last July and it was marvelous, uncrowded and you get low season rates, Le Toiny has a 5 night package at that time which you might want to check out.

Try Aruba or Barbados.<BR>Congrats!!!

Great idea! Look into Grand Lido Sans Souci Jamaica--very romantic with a great spa. Virgin Gorda is a gorgeous quiet island--look into villa rentals--for instance Leverick Bay has villa rentals with the use of their facilities.

Peter Island, Peter Island, Peter Island!

Negil Jamaica. The all inclusives are great. Blue water, white sand and friendly people. I've stayed at Point Village and Riu and like Riu the best of the two... <BR>

Cross aruba off the list for vibrant Caribbean culture. Barbados gives lots of nice options and high end luxury might be Sandy Lane.

Just curious, but why wait until November?

Who uses words like quintessential?

Yeah, what does it mean anyhow?

Quintessential-<BR><BR>Looked it up in the dictionary because I didn't know either.<BR><BR>This is what it means:<BR><BR>1)The fifth & highest element in ancient and medieval philosophy that permeates all nature and is the substance composing the celestial bodies (hmmmmmm)<BR><BR>2) the essence of a thing in its purest and most concetrated form.<BR><BR>Hmmmmmmmm, does that make any sense in term of a vacation???????

Another vote for Ladera on St. Lucia. Only around 25 rooms, all with plunge pools & all open-air with incredible views. If you do a search you can find lots of info on this forum. Also check their website www.ladera-resort.com It's not for everyone but we loved it.<BR>