Looking to visit the Carribean in Sept - where to go?

[kosciosco]

So much choice, I am completely mind-boggled!

OK this is what we are looking for - A beach holiday in a tropical location - I love Thailand, so that may give you an idea.

My wife loves the beach. I do too, but two weeks of nothing but beach would drive me nuts, so I need some sightseeing as well.

We are in our mid 30s.

I definitely don't want to eat in a hotel every night, would like to try out local restaurants.

Would like good accomodation, nothing flash - 3 star ish

We looked at Tobago, but the reports of crime worry me and it seems very big hotel, private beach focused.

Anyone have any ideas?

[Carib Mark]

Okay, here we go with one of my favorites again and I'll try and keep it brief and to the point this time.

BARBADOS

a) Not in the usual track for hurricanes and you are going during peak hurricane season.

b) The beaches, especially along the west coast are awesome with amazing sunsets daily at 6:30

c) Great restaurants with local flair both along the coast, in Bridgetown and in St Lawrence area

d) I've always felt safe there because the natives are in the tourist business there and know, if they lose tourists, they lose income. And I just think the people there are so incredibly nice!

e) Because it's safe, you can rent a small car and travel all over the island with no worries (once you figure how to drive on the left).

f) There's stuff to see when you need time off the beach: Harrison Caves, two tropical gardens, an animal reserve, other seashores with surfing, Mount Gay Distillery (free rum samples!)

The only thing lacking is nightlife. No casinos and just a handful of entertainment at hotels and such. But all in all, it's one of my favorite islands and I think you'd love it too.