I'm planning a weeklong getaway with my single daughter (26). I'm also single in my mid-40's, so quiet romantic walks on the beach aren't in the cards on this trip. We're looking for a good beach, good snorkeling, good restaurants. Also some degree of nightlife - at least a variety of places to go. Shopping isn't a priority, but might be a nice diversion. We were considering Puerto Rico, but I've been told that it can be dirty and there are better beaches in the USVI. So now I'm thinking about St. Thomas or St. Johns. Any recommendations? We're looking to stay on the beach in a nice resort/hotel. Usually not so prissy, but looking for some extra comfort on this trip. Also, in either place, do you recommend renting a car? Previously been to the Bahamas which we loved, and Aruba, which we probably won't re-visit. Thanks so much . . .

St. John. It is incredible for snorkeling, beaches, fun shopping without crowds, and you'll find the night life laid-back and very enjoyable. I would definitely rent a car so that you can explore the island, go over to St. Thomas on the car ferry and explore that island for a day too. The Westin and Caneel Bay are the only resorts and can be a bit pricey, but wll offer specials during the off-season. There are also a couple of nice inns and you might even consider renting a nice condo or cottage. Cars are essential for simple mobility-- the freedom to up and change a beach anytime you wish.

Like Tuxedo mentioned..a car is nice if you wanna check out the many nice beaches on St John or St Thomas for that matter.There is so much to see underwater.I would stay on St John..it is less busy but still has some nightlife.We are going in about a week and we are renting a dingy to go snorkeling some off shore.

I have also been to Aruba..it does not compare to St John..in my opinion for beauty and nice calm water beaches.

We have travelled a fair amount in the Caribbean and Mexico and the Mayan Riviera area of Mexico offers a lot for us. There is wonderful snorkeling in this area, good restaurants and some nightlife. There is shopping in Playa del Carmen. The cool white sand beaches, turquoise water and clarity of water is wonderful.

I can personally recommend the Barcelo Maya resort. It has on site snorkeling on one of the best beaches in the area that is almost 2 miles long and is on a private cove. There is a great outdoors disco and a very good theatre. Here is a private non-profit website for this resort if you want to take a look. There is a sticky post at the top of the discussion forum where you can look at people's vacation pictures of the resort and area.

http://www.unofficial-barcelo-maya.com/

There is so much to do in the area if you want with Mayan ruins to explore, cenotes to swim/snorkel and eco/water parks. If the Barcelo Maya isn't to your liking you may want to check out some of the other wonderful resorts in this area. Don't think about Cancun proper because it is very Americanized and party central now, unless you are into that sort of thing.

We were not thrilled with Aruba and felt it is over hyped, but liked Antigua, St. Lucia, Jamaica and St. Martin somewhat, but the Mayan Riviera offer great bang for the buck.

The USVI is very pleasant and picturesque. It makes for a very nice getaway. The beaches are great with good snorkeling. Lots of nightlife and shopping in STT. It's rather hilly and the taxi drivers are so nice, you may just want to leave the driving to them. We do know what you mean about Aruba. We also will not re-visit, but we liked the Virgin Islands.

Thanks for all the suggestions. Based on the responses and all I've read, I think St. John is the place. One last concern though - i've read in several places about all the bug bites, even with bug spray on. It's a last minute trip - we'll be going in a couple of weeks (the end of sept). Are the sand flies/mosquitos really bad? Are there places where they are worse than others? What is the best bug spray to use? I'm from California - a very non-humid climate. Thanks again!!

The sand fleas and mosquitos mostly come out at dawn and dusk. They will be anywhere where there is significant brush. But they aren't a problem if you simply put on some bug spray when you experience them. It's tropical but it's not the Amazon. I always pack my own bug spray and sunscreen because it can be 25-50% more expensive on the island. Have a great time.

onzgo:

You sound just like a travel agent.....

No I am not a travel agent and not even in the travel industry, but just love to travel and to do research and help other people learn about places I have been to. Maybe I missed my calling.

So many places, so little time and sooooo little money.

onzgo:

Not exactly what I meant.. I meant you sounded like you were earning a commission.

I just got back from PR and thought it was great. It was very clean, and there is plenty of non-romantic stuff to do--snorkelling, kayaking, shopping, driving through mountains, horseback riding, surfing etc. Check out "que Pasa" and the fodors/frommers guides as well as concierge.com and Nytimes articles on the area. Plenty of history and arts too.

No I don't make a commission, but the Barcelo Maya is a very good resort. Of all the all inclusives, including other 5 stars, we have been to with the exception of a SuperClubs resort in Jamaica, which cost much more, this resort offers a lot for the money and it is the only resort where we have been repeat visitors, plus this area of Mexico also has a lot to offer in culture, history and things to do and explore.