ok.... need some help from you guys. I've been thinking about where to take my wife at the end of the year for our anniversary. Wanted to celebrate in a special way this year and go somewhere awesome. I have heard alot about the Sandals resorts where everything is all inclusive (all you can eat, drink, play, etc....). If fact they look great, and if there is nothing else worth even considering, please tell me. Or if you have any experiences to share, please do so.
my question is:

anybody know of any other great resorts like this that I could check into? I would prefer to stay on this side of the world, but I guess depending on price am open to other options.

thanks

 

Why not a cruise ?

Everything is inclusive with stops in Great places !

 

hey dennis..

I've thought about that...we've even talked about it several times...my only problem with that is neither of us have been out in the ocean on a boat (i'm pretty sure I'd be ok, but my wife is another story) and I would hate to get out there and one of us be sea sick the whole time --- wouldn't make for a very good anniversary .... i haven't totally cancelled the idea yet, but thinks for suggesting it.

 

Take some gravol and boogie down.

Btw, They are Ship's > Not Boats.

I went to England on a ship.
Being on them now is wonderful compared to back then.
Plus I doubt the waters that skirt the Southern US are any comparison to the rough Atlantic Ocean.

 

If you and the wife are not the gung-ho adventureous types I would suggest looking into an Apple Vacations package. They offer vacation packages from basic to all-inclusive at just about every desirable vacation spot there is. The all inclusives are a good deal. We have gone twice to Cozumel, Mexico with Apple and would highly recommend their services. BTW, some Sandals resorts are adults only - can be rather risque.

 

I appreciate the heads up on the risque part! ....thanks I'll check into apple vacations. we used a charter company for our honeymoon and I enjoyed it greatly. I like the idea of paying for something before you go and not having to worry about meals, activities, etc.

and dennis:

I know their ships....I just mean we haven't even been out in a boat or anything in the ocean....worst we've been is the lake when the wind is blowing hard...and i'm sure those dinky waves can't even compare with the ocean.....you know we don't have a whole lot of water here in W. Texas....when it rains stuff puddles up real well, but nothing big enough for a ship

 

Bora Bora

 

Listen to Dennis. I was on a cruise when the Blizzard of '93 hit, and it chased us to Nassau. The captain said it was the worst weather he'd experienced in 20-some years of sailing the Caribbean, and the ship barely moved. I've done 2 more cruises since, and it's the best thing going- can't beat 'em for the money. Carnival is OK, Royal Caribbean is nice, but the best service I've found yet was on Norwegian. Just make sure you're on one of the larger, newer ships- they have stabilizers that will make the whole ship feel motionless.

One problem with the all-inclusives like Sandals. They get your money up-front, in one lump sum, so there's little incentive to provide good food and service after that. Food is okay, usually buffet style, nothing outstanding. The alcohol they provide is the cheapest local stuff available; "top shelf" or ANYTHING that has to be imported is extra-cost. And what about activities? nearly every one of them charge extra for jet skis, sail boats, horseback riding, para-sailing, etc... Find out EXACTLY what's included and what you have to pay extra for. Technically, a cruise ship is also "all-inclusive," but they're a LOT less expensive than the all-inclusive islands, and you get to travel around while staying in just one room, on your ship. The all-inclusive resorts are just that; no towns nearby to visit. You STAY at one place all the time. Nothing wrong with that if that's what you want- you just need to know it ahead of time. The all-inclusives are a bit pricey for what you get; the cruises are a bargain.

 

Cruises are great and a good buy right now. I have done 5 different cruises in the past few years. ( just got back from a short 4 day one) If you are concerned about motion sickness see your doctor before going and get a motion sickness patch. Also drinks (except coffe and tea) are not included so be prepared to spend some additional money on drinks and or course the tip (averages $30.00 per person per day).

I've never been to an all inclusive resort but I hear they are nice.

I would recommend Caneel Bay Resort in the Island of St. Johns (US Virgin Islands). It is not all inclusive but has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and they are private for the resort. St. John's is mostly a nature preserve and is a very pristine and relatively not very touristy. Great place to relax and re-kindle romance. You get there by boat from St. Thomas so spend a day or two shopping and sight seeing in St. Thomas.

 

You know, it's funny about cruises, my wife and I can never agree, I would prefer Penelope, she prefers Tom.


Somebody had to see that one comming.

No other useful knowledge here, sorry.

 

I would avoid a cruise ship until they get the "virus" that is making people sick figured out. IMO, you will have just as much of a good time flying to your destination and chilling out for a week.

 

.
But does not include drinks...of any kind, without having to pay for it.
.
Cruising is fabulous.. just bring your own bottle.
We loved the Tulum area of Mexico/Riviera Mayan, south of Playa del Carmen vacinity and San Jose del Cabo...(not Cabo San Lucas- to touristy...). Antigua is quite nice too.
.
If you could swing an indirect route to get there, Cuba..- Veradero Beach is a great value. Some pretty nice hotels..all are all-inclusive..and great beaches and water.
.
Ive heard some horror stories about 'Apple Vacations' beware..some clients were successful....others werent...but I guess that can happen with any supplier/tour company.

 

Not Drinks & Tips.....Yes....That's a given.


To me inclusive is Food,Travel,Going to Port a couple of times, Games, Entertainment,Onboard events.
With some it includes airfare to place of origin.

Things like that.

 

Good one wire&tape84?

 

Risque is no good? Sorry I couldnt help. If anyone wants to know where not to go, I might be able to help you avoid those oh so bad places. Unfortunatly, I have found a few.