Todd

We are a mid-30's couple and have won an all expense paid trip to 1 of several destinations. Our choices include Aruba Marriott Resort, Grand Cayman Hyatt, or St. Thomas Marriott Frenchmans Reef. We have never been to any and having trouble deciding. We want an island setting, not too crowded, romantic and relaxation. We have 5 day, 4 nights and may add a day or two at our expense. Any suggestions from those who have been?

kim

Marriot Aruba or Caymen Hyatt.. <BR><BR>How did you win such a fabulous prize?

Karen

Can't comment on the Cayman's since I've never been but between Aruba and St. Thomas, I would choose St. Thomas. The Reef is on a bluff overlooking the harbour and recently has undergone a huge renovation and it is lovely. It is highrise with no beach of its own but adjacent is the Marriott property, MorningStar, its sister resort with whom it shares amenities including a nice beach. St. Thomas gives you the opportunity to explore not only St. Thomas but nearby pristine St. John which is 2/3rd's Nat'l Park but also the BVI's. Great sailing, wonderful snorkling from many beaches, a really laid back Carib atmosphere. The mecca of duty free shopping in the Caribb as well. There is good dining island wide and exploring the island and the history is great! Charlotte Amalie can be busy on cruise ship days but you just avoid the crowds and hussle and bussle by not going to Town that day! On St. John it is very possible to be the only people on the beach! I did not enjoy Aruba but others love the atmosphere and ambience there and since it is so very different from St. Thomas and offers a very different experience, it depends on the type of holiday you want. You can walk easily between many properties on Aruba and there is the casinos, shows and other activities that are not offered on St. Thomas.

Jim

Be aware that many people have said that the locals on St. Thomas resent tourists and that there is a soaring crime rate. Also, that it's dirty. <BR>

chazz

Our last two trips were to Aruba and St. Thomas. Overall we liked St. Thomas better, but the Marriott in Aruba has a much better beach than Frenchman's Reef.<BR>St. Thomas is a more scenic island and it's fun to take ferries to neighboring islands.<BR><BR>We had heard about crime on St. Thomas but we felt safe and found the local folks to be quite friendly. However, wandering around at night is probably safer on Aruba.<BR><BR>Haven't been to Grand Cayman, but have seen several reports that there's not much beach left at the Hyatt - you might want to check that out.<BR><BR><BR><BR>

Scott

There's plenty of beach in front of the Hyatt in Grand Cayman. The beach area that is slim is well south of that, and is front of the Marriot. You should know that the Hyatt in GC is across the street from the beach. It is a very short & easy walk, but you won't see the ocean from your room. The beach in Grand Cayman is one of the best we have ever seen. You can walk for miles, the water is crystal clear, the snorkeling is second to none, and the restaurants are to die for. If you want to get away from the 'hotel crowds', you can easily head north on the beach and find some very secluded spots.

Bud

Been to all three islands. All three offer something different. Caymans is definitely British and more conservative. Also most expensive of the three. Slightly more upscale than the other two. People are somewhat friendly, but will not go out of their way for you. Best place is the Westin in the Caymans. In St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie is the tourist mecca of the USVI. The Morningstar Resort at the Marriott is better than the Frenchman's Reef hotel. Right on the beach and right next to the hotel. It is worth the little more to stay there. Nice dining. People are indifferent and you do not want to venture out late at night away from the resort. Some places are not safe. Aruba has the best combination, friendly people, great resorts, and great dining. The Radisson is the best resort on the island

BudCanYouRead

Bud, I think maybe if you were trying to be helpful (which I'm sure you were), maybe it would be more helpful to read the question again. These people have won a free trip to one of the 3 resorts they mention. Not the three resorts you suggest that you say are "better" than their options. Doesnt do them much good to "select" three different resorts than the ones they can choose from and asked for feedback on.

vicki

Have been to and own in Aruba Marriott and just recently Marriott Frenchman's Reef. Have not been to Cayman's but Hyatt's are always beautiful properties but did hear the beach is across the street. Aruba Marriott is the best and I do like the island over St. Thomas. I think for a little nightlife, gambling, beautiful hotel and beach and activities the Aruba Marriott is the way to go!!! Frenchman's Reef is just not as nice and the island is not as safe as Aruba. EXCLLENT restaurants and great drinking water in Aruba as well. GO Aruba.

Judy

I have been to all three islands and my choice would be Grand Cayman because of the seven miles of pure white beach and great watersports. I have stayed at the Hyatt and its very nice but as someone else brought up the beach is located across the street, if that doesnt bother you this would be a wonderful trip for you.