kim

Beth, I too for some reason had children and take them to see the world, we go to St. Maarten every year and stay at The Towers, we own there, next month we are trying the Atlantis in the Bahamas, traveling with a 2 year old and 9 year old. To the Bahamas we are going out of white plains and have to stop in Philly, but to St. Maarten we always get the non-stop out of JFK. The only tru lux resort on St. Maarten is lasamana, but I wouldn't bring the kids there, have you thought of the Westin in St. John, I think you can get the non stop out of JFK and then just a boat to St. John. good luck

Lisa

Beth, we are staying at the CuisinArt Resort on Anguilla. We decided on this hotel because it has a childs playground, in addition to beautiful grounds and it is more of a resort type of atmosphere which we like. Although people bring kids to Cap Jaluca, it seems more quiet and more for couples. Malliouhana also accepts children and has a really nice pirate playground, but we chose CuisinArt this trip. We also do not like all inclusives and we also do not do meal plans, we like to go off on our own. And I agree with what you said to the other poster who gave his/her two cents about bringing children on vacation. Some of us love spending time with our children away from home and don't look at them as a burden. We have had great times with our son on vacation and it is only getting more fun as he gets older. My husband and I also go on mini-vacations without our son, there is time for him and for us.

beth

Lisa-Thanks for the info. It seems we have similar thoughts about travel, kids and resorts. I am looking into Cuisinart and Malliouhan.<BR><BR>Kim-Have you ever been to the Westin, St. John. Have also been considering that as well as Caneel Bay.<BR><BR>I am also considering the Hyatt Dorado which a few people mentioned and the Hyatt Grand Cayman. <BR><BR>Thanks for all the great input. (most of it anyway) More is welcome.

kim

Beth - have never been, just have dreamed about it, its part of a timeshare that I own in Orlando (Vistana) and we can trade there and it looks wonderful, have been to st.johns on a cruise and can't wait to go back, trying the Atlantis this year with this timeshare and next year it will be the westin!! check out(vistana)starwood.com and they tell about it

JJ

Dear Beth,<BR><BR>Most upscale resorts have a kids program or a nanny service. But, are you thinking about your comfort or your kids? Other people? A 2 year old little person would be happy anywhere as long as Mom and Dad are close by.

beth

jj-<BR><BR>I know my daughter could care less where we go. If I put sand in her bathtub she would be happy! I am trying to find a place that I would like and that has things I could do with my daughter like a little play area. (I don't think we can be at the beach all day long) Also, a place that has a lot of food options all day. She is not a picky eater at all (she eats pretty much everything I eat) but she may snack at off times. Any other suggestions?

JJ

Beth,<BR><BR>Try Tamarind Resort USVI not a luxury resort but a good family spot - all of the units have mini kitchens - all are very close to the sand making it easy to run in and out with your little one. I would suggest a ground floor unit on the beach side.

Susan

Beth dear, my response was accurate and not rude. You asked for a suggestion, and I gave you one.

nina

Beth, pay no attention to Susan, she delights in telling people not to bring their children on vacation. I have 2 preteen children and share your and Lisa's philosophy on family travel. We are fortunate to both have grandmas who will watch when my husband and I want our own vacation and fortunate to be able to share great vacations WITH our kids as well. <BR><BR>As most parents know, the best vacation spots for kids of any age is the beach. A caribbean resort that caters to kids is an excellent choice. Here are some that cater to families and that Susan would be well advised to stay away from: Buccaneer St. Croix, Casa de Campo in the DR, Ritz Carlton St Thomas, Hyatt Aruba and Grand Cayman, Wyndham Conquistador in PR, Turtle Beach in Barbados. Have a great time and treasure those vacations with the little ones. Before you know it you'll be worrying how much longer your kids will want to vacation with you (It becomes a little uncool in the teen years)! And after they're gone away you and your husband will still have lots of time to enjoy romantic vacations alone. I love our family vacations as much as our adults only ones, so take that Susan!

beth

Nina-<BR><BR>Thanks for the great suggestions. I'm still investigating my options. Thanks for the support of family vacations. I'm no longer responding to remarks like Susan's. Hopefully they will stop.