My wife and I are yearly Caribbean travelers. We've been to the 3 US Virgin Islands, St. Martin, St. Barts, Turks and Caicos, Etc. Some of the places several times.
You asked about all inclusive. We normally don't do all inclusive because you usually get a sub par trip at a higher price. That said, this year we went to the Turks and Caicos (which we've been to 3 times) and stayed at a brand new all inclusive resort that opened in February called Veranda. All I can say is this changed my mind about all inclusive. Top Notch 4-5 Star. The rooms were perfect, they had and have right now 30% off to attract new people. Their "house" vodka at the bar was Grey Goose (unlimited food and drinks)! The staff was awesome, the rooms were awesome and Grace Bay beach is one of the best. When we checked out the only cost was any tips we gave during the stay.
Turks and Caicos is an easy island to get to, very friendly, American dollar, English speaking and has never fought us. Highly recommended although the island itself is more resort driven than island driven meaning the island can be a little plain compared to others.
My favorite island is St. Barts hands down. It will make you work for it though. No going to the web and booking unless you really like spending money. To go there you need to book each piece individually since you will have a villa, a island hopper flight and a major flight to St. Martin to get there. Plus it is French speaking (although all speak some english) and the Euro at a somewhat higher rate. What you get is european cool and a very exotic island with the best restaurants and vibe anywhere. The island has crazy hills and crazy drivers! I could imagine myself being on it in a little R5 Turbo Renault instead of the normal JIMNY 4 x 4 rental or smart car! I love this island and we go off season to save money---anytime after April 15th is usually off season until Thanksgiving and Xmas when it gets really high.
The plus side to St. Barts is 8 total square miles, picture perfect beaches (all empty), 80 plus restaurants, "european style" on the beach, and a total adventure. If you don't like adventure and the occasional surprise, then it may not be for you. The single engine plane ride from St. Martin is the first adventure. They STALL the plane on landing---short landing right against a beach!
Go for it. If you have any questions PM me.
Wes
|