We have decided to venture away from Europe and try something different this spring. I am totally unfamiliar with the Caribbean islands but am considering a vacation in spring or early summer. This will not be an adventurous or educational trip, so hiking, ruins, etc. are not on our agenda. We're looking for a relaxing, beautiful place with great food and great beaches, and will only be staying about four days. We also want to keep it as inexpensive as possible. Would an all-inclusive resort be our best bet? Which island would be best? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

So many choices! I would suggest Aruba. Eating out is relatively cheaper there than some other islands and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. The beaches are wonderful as well. Another choice would be Jamaica for an AI. Recently in a readres poll in the travel mag Carib. T and L Aruba was voted to have the friendlist people and of of the best destinations overall. Jamaica scored very high in these matters as well.

Except Aruba is certainly not on the "beautiful islands of the Caribbean" list (and the requested criteria are relaxing, beautiful, great food, and beaches).

If you're a Europhile, then St. Barth's is the island which best fits all your criteria. It's unique in its culture, sophisticated feeling, expensive, good beaches and food, some very nice small resorts.

If you're well travelled I can't help but think that an AI on an island like Jamaica would turn you off completely.

Other options which fit your criteria: Bermuda and St. John.

I say Bermuda as well. You will enjoy how picturesque the island is, pretty pink sand and gorgeous water, it's charm and also that there are plenty of excellent restaurants/pubs to choose from (and Bermuda is very clean and safe). It's a treat to hop on a ferry to go to different parts of the island or you can go by bus. If you're adventurous, you can also rent a double-seated scooter. My favourite time to go is early or mid-June. It is so colourful with the hibiscus and oleander in full bloom. Bermuda is not cheap, but with everything it has to offer it's worth treating yourself - you say you're only going for 4 nights (which is how long I normally stay because of the cost, but believe me - and I know it's been said before - when you get on the plane to go back home, you'll be counting the days to return).

Thanks so much for the suggestions. We have been told that the Ritz at Montego Bay has an excellent all-inclusive plan, but that there really is no beach there. Has anyone been there lately? We definitely want to be able to walk and run on the beach. Any other suggestions/recommendations?

Actually the beach area in Aruba is beautiful so if you stay there you'll be fine. If you go inland you will see desert topography and varieties of cactus. For just relaxing by the beach you will not be disappointed. As for Jamaica look into Negril. There is a 7 mi. stretch of beach there and several good AI's to choose from. Also have you considered the DR? If beaches and relaxation is what you want look into Punta Cana.

St. John, USVI or Bermuda!! both beautiful. However, St. John would be first choice...The most beautiful beaches I've seen anywhere. Island is also gorgeous.