I have enough frequent flier miles on USAir to go to the Carribean this December. I am afraid of being bored, though, because my last visit to St. Lucia was just too boring for my tastes. My fiance loves the beach, but I can only take about 1 day of doing nothing on a beach. I love history, culture, hiking, snorkeling, anything to keep me doing things (I'm the kind of girl who loves to go to Europe). We will not be scuba diving. <BR><BR>From my research it looks like maybe the USVI or Playa del Carmen, Mex. might be adventurous. We have been to Cancun before and I'd rather go to a new place every time. We will only go for 5-6 days.<BR><BR>Other choices: Turks&amp;Caicos, Grand Cayman, Belize, Barbados, Antigua, St. Martin &amp; Aruba.<BR><BR>I appreciate your expertise.

Aruba has better shopping, restaurants, and a fer historic /natural beauty sites to see--and MUCH better people-watching (very International tourist population). Cayman, however, has the BEST snorkeling (from shore--virtually anywhere on the island) so perhaps you could let honey veg on the beach(es) while you dunk in an out of the 80 degree water and look for octopus or something. (THEY&quot;RE THERE&gt;&gt;&gt;LOOK CAREFULLY!)

I was in a similar situation last year. My husband does not care for the beach and I love it. I searched for an island that had great hiking, snorkeling, and restaurants and St. John fit the bill. We LOVE it! We've been twice, and there you can be as busy or as relaxed as you want. Culture is limited though, but there is some history and ruins there. No significant night life, but a great dinner was all we needed as we were up early everyday exploring. Just driving around the island is a great adventure adventure! You can also rent a dingy or powerboat and explore the island from the water.

I'd recommend USVI, but stay at St. Thomas; more night life, history, culture between St. Thomas and St. Croix. Snorkeling you can take a day and go to St. John or a charter group and go to the BVI (bring passports to BVI). Hiking is definitely better in St. John (GORGEOUS), St. Croix is pretty flat.<BR><BR>Barbados would be my 2nd choice; Grand Cayman 3rd, Aruba 4th, St. Martin last.

Jacy, <BR>Antigua is your answer! St. Lucia is our least favorite island, also. We were so bored. Antigua has the nice beaches for your fiance and the bartenders will fix your favorite exotic cocktails. The only island that has ever allowed me to mix my own! Good bands and entertainment at night. Perfect island for history and culture!!

I found St. John verry dull after dark. It's very small and has very few restaurants, minimal shopping. Great snorkeling, though and very pretty island.<BR><BR>Barbados has much more to do.<BR>Grand Cayman has plenty of 'civilization' compared to SJ, but not as much to do out of the water as places like Aruba and Barbados.<BR><BR>Aruba is in between these two.<BR><BR>Turks/caicos would bore you to death, Jacy. Very beautiful, but very quiet.<BR><BR>Cancun has more to do than all the above places, but it's pretty tacky and tasteless IMO.

I think Belize or PDC would be good. Both have snorkeling &amp; are close to Mayan culture sites. Barbados also has a lot to do - snorkeling, city, nature - monkeys. Belize beaches may not be nice enough for your fiance.

How about Puerto Rico. I would not choose T&amp;C for both my husband and I found it somewhat boring. I can relate. Cancun is an option. But PR offers culture, history, and some nice beaches. Nightlife, casinos if that is your taste. <BR>

Sounds like you ned a dose of Hedo III to me. Pack your bags and head to Jamaica, Jacy. You will have the time of your life! Congrads on your engagement also.

You guys have been amazing! Thank you for all your suggestions. I will be rereading this post again and again as we come closer to a decision.<BR><BR>THANK YOU!!!