Recommend a Caribbean Resort
 

So, Mr. travelbug and I are taking a couple of days in the beginning of May to unwind. We've decided that the Caribbean would probably be the best place for us.

We haven't decided on an island yet, so I wanted to solicit some advice from you Fodorites.

We're looking for something a bit more upscale (not opposed to spending $500 a night), secluded and small/boutique. We'd prefer to have meals included, but if we found the right place we wouldn't mind paying extra. We also really like the idea of a getting a cottage on the beach for a few days.

Thus far, the only place that I've come across that's really struck me as ideal is this one: http://www.laluna.com/

Check out Nisbet Plantation on Nevis and Jamaica Inn near Ochos Rios, I think both are perfect for what you are looking for and meals are included at Nisbet and there's a meal plan option at JI.

I topped off a stay in Grenada last summer with 3 nights at LaLuna. It was beautiful and secluded and romantic. Upscale in a rustic bohemian way, but not in terms of marble tubs, Frette linens, or name brand toiletries.

Gorgeous setting, nice beach, decent snorkeling on site, really good food. Grenada is a great island to explore, and I would in fact advise you against getting the meal plan at LaLuna because you would miss you on the wonderful meals elsewhere on the island. Please let me know if you have specific questions.

Travelbug my wife and I have been to some very nice resorts in Jamaica, St. Thomas, St. John, Virgin Gorda, St. Martin and Grand Cayman but our best trip was to Anguilla. We flew U. S. Air to St. Marteen then took a private charter boat to Anguilla. You can use the public ferry but the Charter Boat was much faster. We stayed at Cap Juluca and really had a great time. What I remember most is how great the food is on Anguilla. I will be happy to share some restaurants with you if you like. If I went back I may stay at Cuisinart but Malliouhana is very nice also. Good luck.

http://www.malliouhana.com/

http://www.cuisinartresort.com/

http://www.capjuluca.com/

What I really liked also about Anguilla is the place is very laid back and the folks are friends. There is no place to shop so you just relax and have wonderful food. Fun trip is a day trip to St. Martin then a cab to Phillipsburg to shop for jewelry or your heart's desire.

When you mentioned secluded, I thought of Nevis, as it's a more undeveloped island. You may want to look at the Hurricane Cove bungelows. Some of them are one bedroom bungalows. There is a queen size bed, bathroom and a walk in closet with a safe. A covered porch/sitting area has a spectacular view of either the Caribbean Sea or Oualie Bay.

While we have been guests at Petit St, Vincent 3 times over the past 11-12 years and I personally do not enjoy the attitude of Haize Richardson, Owner and GM, we return because it has what you want as do we enjoy periodically...privacy. Though it is ~$700 in May for a beach cottage, we like #11 & #12, including 3 adequate to fairly good meals it is beautiful, private and serene. If you are into snorkeling it is within 30 minutes of one of the best Snorkel spots, still georgeous and almost 90% living coral, in the Caribbean/Bahamas/Grenadines.