HELP! Planning 10 yr anniversary trip and need help choosing a island to visit.

[momtoty2001]

Hi, I am brand new here and received a recommendation to this site from a friend. My husband and I are celebrating our 10yr anniversary this year and I would ike to surprise him with a vacation getaway. We visited Grand Cayman last May and loved it but would like something a little less expensive as well as better shopping.

We both fell in love with snorkeling and really enjoyed the crystal clear water in Grand Cayman.

We are looking to go somewhere that would be somewhat secluded that we could enjoy activities like: snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, shopping (nothing real expensive more like fun cheaper items), golf. The best part of our trip to Grand Cayman was that the water was very calm and so I could stand in the water and see all the fish swimming below. I loved this as I was a little nervous snorkeling but felt safe as there isn't many sharks in Grand Cayman. The downside of Grand Cayman is that everything is very expensive because it is an island in the middle of nowhere and everything has to be shipped in. Therefore, I am looking for something similar in beauty to Grand Cayman but less expensive.



I am hoping someone has some input on a place to visit. We are pretty open as to when we go but would prefer sometime between Februaryand June 2008.


Thank you in advance forany help.

[bonniejoy03]

Hi Momtoty2001. Welcome! I celebrated my 10 year anniversary on Young Island (also a LL auction!) It is lovely. Its a little island across the water from St. Vincent. Meals are included and they are great. Its not like an all-inclusive with buffet style meals. Its top notch. You do have to pay for drinks. The snorkelling in the Grenadines and one of the best. Young Island has sailing trips to reach some great snorkel spots. They also surprised my husband and me with lovely flowers and matching golf shirts for our anniversary. (not sure if this is standard but wonderful surprise.) Shopping wouldn't be that great. You would have to go into St. Vincent. (which we did....great markets!). Not sure when the LL package goes but I would recommend April or May (and this is typically shoulder season and less expensive.) Hope this helps as a start.

[disneygal]

Hi momtoty2001, I'll suggest St. Thomas for the best shopping in the Caribbean. You could easily combine a night or two on St. Thomas with a trip to St. John or the BVIs for more seclusion and great snorkeling. In my experience, secluded locations and good shopping are somewhat mutually exclusive.

For absolutely the best snorkeling in shallow waters, I'll recommend the Grenadines. From just about any property, it's a short boat ride to the Tobago Keys. For example, Cotton House is one very attractive option available on LL. It's harder to get there - you probably have to go through Barbados. But that gives you a chance for shopping.

If you're looking for something more mainstream, the area south of Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya may meet all of your needs. Mexico is generally less expensive than the Caribbean islands. There are a number of natural inlets, such as Xel Ha, with good snorkeling in calm water. Around Cancun you can also find places to swim with dolphins and there are plenty of shopping opportunities. LL also has some great packages for properties in this area.

I'm sure you'll find something that will meet most, if not all, of what you're looking for. Taking a look at the offerings on this website may spark some new ideas.