aj

Neither my boyfriend nor I has ever been to the Caribbean but we are planning a trip for my (cough,cough)30th (more coughing)birthday in May 2000... <BR>Would love to find a paradise on earth to help the day go down a little easier, so to speak! <BR> <BR>Ideally we would like the Caribbean postcard--white sandy beaches,wonderful accomodations,cabana boy with a ever-ready tray full of tropical concoctions,decent nightlife,etc. <BR> <BR>If anyone has ideas of where to go (or where not to go for that matter) we'd appreciate it mucho. <BR> <BR>We are willing to shell out some $$$ if the locale is especially spectacular. <BR> <BR>Many thanks to everybody who takes the time to help me! <BR>

Bob

St.Maarten,It has a little of everything.Beaches,nightlife,food,shopp-ing,casinos,etc.We seen most of the Caribbean and liked what we saw some much, we return every April for two weeks.Where ever you choose,I'm sure you'll have fun.

Debra

AJ <BR> <BR>I agree - STM has everything - the Dutch side has the hotels with casinos if that is important to you. I prefer the French side (and I understand it was less damaged after the last hurricane). I love the Grand Case Beach Club - ask for a beachfront room. It is a small beach, but very quiet and pretty. The dive boats will pick you up at the beach, sunsets in the hammocks are magnificent, restaurants are close by....need I go on? <BR>Have great time wherever you decide to go! <BR>

bob

try st barts, i think it is the class of the caribbean,a bit pricey, but truely a lovers paradise.. contact wimco in providence r.i. for villa rent info and the month of may should be more reasonable for rental rates.

Bren

I think you need to be a bit more specific. Having lived on several islands I will tell you they all have distint personalities. What was your favorite vacation destination? I prefer smaller islands such as St Barths and Anguilla but they may be a bit remote for a first timer. For an all around Caribbean experience stick to islands like Aruba, St. Maarten (I prefer Dutch side) or Cayman Islands. If you want romantic and private try St Barths (very expensive) or Anguilla. A good book to look at would be Fodor's or Frommer's Guide to Caribbean. Gives an overview of what to see and do. Good Luck and Happy Early Birthday.