Caribbean Vacation Zone

I will be marrying in June of 2010. I would like to honeymoon somewhere beachy, the caribbean for example. Does anyone have any suggestions for islands/resorts they’ve had a good experience at? I’d like to avoid anywhere excessively touristy (I don’t want to stay where the cruise ships dock). I’m a student, so it can’t be anywhere too expensive. Thanks for helping me narrow down my choices!

Try St Kitts or St Lucia. Both are beautiful islands very tropical and lush and not over run with tourists and people are friendly. St Kitts is very small but the neighboring island of Nevis is very easy to get to. St. Lucia is pretty big and does get cruise ships a few days a week but depending on where you are you may not even notice it. Its the type of island that if you want isolation you can find it.

I am looking for a family friend resort with pools, beaches, childrens activities.

Check out Dreams Resort and Spa in Cancun Mexico. It’s an all-inclusive. It has a Explorer’s club for kids. 24/7 room service, no wristbands, no reservations, live nightly entertainment and so much more. Cancun is shaped like the number 7 and this resort is located on the top of the seven. Calm water (2 beaches) Located close to shopping and many restaurants if you want a change of pace. Check it out on Apple Vacations

i don’t want to drink the tap water, and i don’t think bottled water is included in any of the beverage packages.

YES you can take bottled water, I do it all of the time. I don’t usually take a case, but I take a six pack of bottled water (12 -16 oz) AND a six pack of soft drinks (16 oz). I always carry that on board in my carry on bag and it goes right on the scanner belt with everything else.

But you do not have to worry about drinking tap water on ship. Although it is safe and not bad tasting all of the cruise ships will sell bottled water on the ship. In many cases there will be a bottle or two of water in your cabin or the mini-refrigerator in your cabin and if you use it they will replenish it each day. In addition, when you get to each cruise port, especially in the Bahamas and Caribbean, they will offer cold bottled water for about $2.00 as you are leaving the ship. AND, you can always buy bottled water for about the same price as at home when you get off the ship. If you go on ship sponsored tours they will have either free bottled water or bottled water for sale on the tour bus. While the cruise lines do not allow you to bring alcoholic beverages back on ship for your cabin, you can bring bottled water and soft drinks. I do that all the time also.

or any other cruise ship ideas?

It’s not a matter of what we like, it’s a matter of which cruise and ship is the best match for you. All cruise lines are different, as are their ships.

It is correct that the shorter cruises are often very ‘party’ like, and if you’re older and quiet that might not be the best match for you no matter what cruise line is offering it.

Look to see what amenities the ship offers. Will you use them? What about the itinerary? Is it long on ocean days and if so, are you a ship person that would enjoy that. Or perhaps it’s port intensive arriving each morning at 7am and departure each night at 5pm – is that for you??

Check to see what the average age is for your cruise. Longer cruises, Alaska itineraries, etc., frequently command an older crowd. Summer cruises are full of families as are holidays.

I find a lot of carnival ships similar to kind of vegas atmosphere. I myself prefer Royal Caribbean. I think for the dollar, you can’t beat the value. I think Princess is overpriced for what you get. Celebrity is a little nicer and consistantly has more upscale food, if you’re a foodie.

Do more research. My happiest clients are those that find the cruise that best matches their interest, lifestyle and pocket book. Don’t judge on brand alone. .Good luck.

Any good suggestions on a Caribbean vacation for a mid 20’s couple in Nov? Looking for an all inclusive place that has a great beach for relaxing, nightlife and awesome food.

Please be specific as to which resorts you would recommend and why? Please HELP!

Have already been to Aruba and DR.

Antigua is a great place. If your in your mid 20s you could just sit back and enjoy a beach and the tropical breeze, or you go enjoy the nightlife – like clubs.

Antigua is a small place but its city has a big city feel and the country-side feels like its another world far far away lol