been to st.thomas st.john & the BVI,

[cgullo@sbcglobal.net]

We would like to try some other islands, but keep going back to the us and british virgin islands, because they are so close. What other caribbean destinations would you recommend for incredible beaches and good accomodations?

[Carib Mark]

It sounds like you like to stay closer to the states. If money is not a problem, Grand Cayman, and Cayman Brac have some amazing beaches and resorts. There's plenty to do on Grand and more of a getaway feel to Brac. Another place for great beaches close to the states is the Dominican Rep. They have a few great resorts with all inclusive possible, and the beaches are outstanding. Jamaica's always a standby, but a lot of people shy from the fact that you may want to be escorted when away from the resort. That's why there's so many all inclusives so you won't need to leave. They have Sandals and the other big names there as well. If you wanted to go further away...there's so many to choose from.

[anonymus]

We stayed in the DR last year. What a great laid back place. Everything there is AI. Only 2 drawbacks, IMO: All the rooms smelled of smoke (bring febreeze, if that's a problem), and off property, the merchants are pretty agressive.

[anonymus]

Anguilla is great for powder soft beaches and laid back accomadations. The locals are great and so is the food.

[uphillklimber]

I can't believe I didn't mention Aruba. They pretty much cater to Americans. Anything you would want in the way of a Caribbean vacation, and it will be well done. They have been America's favorite caribbean vacation for quite some time now.

[copeydan]

Barbados is one of my favorite places - very clean, beautiful beaches and scenery, "veddy Btitish". St Martin is great - two different cultures, French and Dutch - Dutch side seems to be friendlier to Americans (duh). Super restaurants, night life, casinos, "au naturel beaches" if you prefer. Puerto Rico has beautiful scenery and beaches, shopping, history in Old San Juan - plus a dark side. Accomodations in all places run the gamut - you get what you pay for for.

[anonymus]

I think you would love the Turks and Caicos. Everyone speaks English and the official currency is the US$. Stay at the Coral Gardens (we did) and try all the wonderful restaurants on the island. Let the divemaster arrange a daytrip on a boat to Middle Caicos. The water is so incredible in clarity and color that you really do need to get out on it! They stopped to let us snorkle, provided lunch, etc. The snorkling directly off the beach in front of Coral Gardens is fabulous. Rent a car & get out & explore this island. It is as safe as it gets.