bollsie

Hi! I am planning a trip with my girlfriend for one week and need some help on which island to visit. We love St Martin and Barbados but want to try something different. We do not like all inclusives and love to mingle with the locals. We also enjoy venturing off on our own to explore so safety is a priority. We are going alone so would like to avoid the family vacation hot spots. We enjoy good food,decent nightlife and beautiful beaches. We considered Jamaica but had heard that its not safe to leave your resort. We are looking for a relaxing time so not too much adventure. Considered going back to St Martin if nothing else catches our eyes! Would like some help on narrowing our choices down. Looked at Turks and Caicos but not sure there is enough nightlife. Looked at Jamaica but safety seemed to be an issue. Please help with any suggestions or ideas!!

wanderingvirgo

Try St Lucia. I've been there multiple times and love it because people are so friendly and their are lots of places to explore. I'm not into all inclusives either and usually stay at an inexpensive hotel or apartment style rental. I like staying in the rodney bay area because there are a lot of affordable places to stay. Also you can meet tons of locals willing to give advice on places to explore.

qwovadis

briland.com runawayhill.com
victoria-house.com belizefirst.com
Hotel Chocolat St Lucia

All have the vibe you describe...

Odin

Last year we went to Negril for the first time and did not stay in a resort but a basic 3 star hotel with a fabulous location on the beach (and they had the most delicious Jamaican breakfast inc in the room rate). I think Negril would suit you down to the ground, you definitely meet locals, no need for AI in Negril since there are bars and restaurants all along the beach and the rocks, the beach is fabulous, lots of nightlife and activities. We walked along the beach at night, not that I am suggesting anyone does that but we felt ok as there were alot of people out at night. We also read about safety issues and they exist but these issues exist in St Martin and Barbados too. To say you cannot leave your resort for safety issues is nonsense. We would have rented a car but did not book in advance and the rate locally was very expensive.

Rodney Bay in St Lucia is another option, this is a lively area with lots of nightlife, bars and restaurants. Aruba is a fun island as are some areas of Guadeloupe and Martinique. I guess Cuba is not allowed (for Americans) which is a pity, since there is some great nightlife in Havana and Varadero.

bollsie

Thank you all for your help. I have been to St Lucia a few years ago and agree that it is a nice island. Thinking of focusing on Negril in Jamaica for something new. Odin...can you tell me where you stayed with the great breakfast in Negri. Or can anyone suggest a nice place to stay on the beach in Negril. Doesn't need to be a 5 star but something clean with a pool, on the beach and not a lot of kids..thank you.