Carribean

[ned1941]

I've been to a number of the Islands and I would put Aruba and St. Lucia near the bottom unless all you want is casinos and beaches. They have both. Food is usually nondiscript on most Carribean islands except St. Barts and St. Martin. By the way there is a big difference between St. Maartin and St.Martin even though they share the same island. If you want to feel like you are in St. Thomas (Americanized - think McDonalds) stay on the Dutch side. However if you want the feeling of a small French village try Grande Case on the french side. St. Barts is unique and expensive. Very French and very chic. If you are on a budget you can stay in St. Martin and catch a short flight to St. Barts right from Grande Case. Only a 15 min. flight. The landing is fun? Those of you who have taken the flight know what I mean.

[beth scheid]

Love St maarten -St Martin Have stayed at La Sammana several times they r very accomondating the food is wonderful especially the breakfast after a 6am workout. Love Sapphire Beach Villas. Was not overly impressed with St. Barts been there a few times. Love Grand Case and Orient Beach since we r free spirits we enjoy clothing optional and the sand is so soft it is always perfect and the Kon-Tiki with Carl as our server and their gourmet or not menu is one of the best around.