Expert: John Crandall - 8/10/2009

Question
Hi,
My fiance and I are seriously considering the Carribean as our honeymooon destination. We are from Ireland and in our late 20's/ We've read a couple of guide books but are struggling to come to a decision. We'd love to get some advice from someone who has been to or had a good knowledge of the islands. Essentially we are after a nice resort - say 4 star with a nice beach. However, we both love to explore so we want somewhere pretty safe, whereby we can hire a car and take in some carribean culture! With regards activities, we love quiet beaches/coves, snorkelling, kayaking and hiking. In addition rather than eating in the resort all the time we'd be keen to explore the local restaurants and bars :). We want an island that isn't too crazy but at the same time has a good atmosphere and things to do! From my research I was thinking of spending most of our time in Martinique and maybe popping over to St Lucia for 2-3 days on the Ferry. Is Martinique relatively safe? And what area of the island would you advise staying in or even better or there any really nice resorts? We have heard that St Lucia 'can' be a bit dangerous - is this fair or is it okay? Martinique and St Lucia are only 2 ideas - perhaps you can suggest alternatives? Best regards and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Des

Answer
Hi Des...nice hearing from you in the UK.

    St.Lucia is gorgeous and with good reason. They call it the Hawaii of the Caribbean. The resorts are beautiful and the beaches are as picturesque as a magazine photo. However, like any island, if you are not familiar with the culture and the way of life, I would be reluctant to venture out on your own. There are many safe places in the Caribbean I can recommend but it is solely based on my own personal experiences.

    Since you are not familiar with Caribbean life, lets start with Aruba. Aruba is called the "Happy Island", and with good reason. Aruba only receives approximately 4 inches of rain fall per year. It is also below the equator and outside of the hurricane belt. You are guaranteed great weather all year with an average temperature about 85 degrees farenheit. The resorts are gorgeous and the island is very safe with plenty of tourists attractions, diving, bar hopping, and great restaurants. This would be my first option. My top two resorts are "Aruba Hyatt Regency" http://aruba.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp?src=yahoo_propertyspecific_hhc_200... (you may have to copy and paste the links into your address bar)

or, the "Aruba Marriott" http://www.marriottvillas.com/resorts/ebrochures/arubasurfclub/default.jsp?LOC=E...

There are many great restaurants on the island also. If you like an excellent steak then I suggest the Argentina Steak House or check out this site: http://www.restaurantsaruba.com/argentine.html?cuisine_type=argentinian

My 2nd recommendation for your Caribbean destination is St.Lucia. The Sandals resorts are absolutley breathtaking and you will be taken back by the resort amenities and hospitality.

My 1st recommendation is Sandals Grande St.Lucia: http://www.sandals.com/main/grande/gl-home.cfm

My 2nd choice would be the Sandals Regency St.Lucia: http://www.sandals.com/main/lucia/lu-home.cfm

    St Lucia is a charming island and there are many organized tours from the hotels and resorts during the day. If you decide on St.Lucia, the best time to travel there is between December and June 1st. Hurricane season begins in the Caribbean on June 1st and runs through November 1st. The worst times to travel to the Caribbean is August, September & October.

Other very nice islands are St.Maarten, St. Thomas & Barbados as well. Do not go to Jamaica, especially if you want to venture out alone. Though the resorts are beautiful there are warnings about going off the resort property, especially at night. I would be more experienced in Caribbean travel prior to going to Jamaica. If you do decide on Jamaica, then make sure you research the island and pay attention to the resort staff during your stay. Personally, I love Jamaica, but I'm also very well versed with the island government and transportation services offered there. The resorts are spectacular and there are many attractions such as Dunns River Fall & Margaritaville for all you Parrot Heads like us here in New Jersey.

    If you require more information on the other islands I recommended, I can also recommend more resorts that suit your taste. I would definitely consider Aruba or St.Lucia. I know you will find all you want to do at any resort on these islands. Good Luck to you!

Regards,

John