I know this is far outside Europe, but I thought I'd ask this incredible community if anyone had any tips or suggestions for these destinations. We're thinking of traveling in late February or March, any recommendations for anything? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Flying from Seattle.
Thank you!
Posted by
United States
75 posts
both islands are lovely, and special, but they have very different 'flavors'. St. Barts exudes French chic and flair, and the beaches are gorgeous, but a bit on the wild side. they are also not terribly long, and very few have any shade. as fas as I know (last visit there was 10 yrs ago), there are still only a couple of beaches have restaurants on them. driving is a bit tough as the roads are quite steep/mountainous in many areas, and winding. lots of choices for fabulous restaurants and shopping, including fabulous grocery stores. very pricey accommodations. getting to St. Barts mean a short, white-knuckle flight from St. Martin or a very choppy ferry ride.
Anguilla is flat, dry and ringed with long, gorgeous beaches. easy flight from Miami, San Juan or St Martin, or a 20-minute ferry ride from St. Martin. British island, so a bit more straight-laced than St Barts (i.e. no nude or topless bathing), but extremely friendly and warm locals. lots of choices for casual beach bars or fancier toes-in-the-sand dining. virtually no shopping to speak of. pricey accommodations, though it is possible to find some reasonably priced lodging.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
8037 posts
You are late for booking the Caribbean, Both rooms and air seats are insufficient for demand. These tend to be harder to get to islands, so you may have to settle for the more basic Caribbean. Have you been there before? Some islands take two planes, a taxi, and a boat and a taxi.
We happen to prefer small resorts and walk-out beachfront rooms, which are uncommon. Have not slept on those two islands, but only daytripped from a larger, adjacent island.
We also prefer The Old Caribbean, which means no TV, no A/C, no phone, no children under 12. Uncommon today.
Posted by
Atlanta, Georgia
566 posts
I can only help with the St. Barts part of your question. For the best source on this check out sbhonline.com. It’s a bit ‘clubby’ so you will have to wade through all the usual impertinent stuff associated with that but it’s full of useful information nonetheless. St. Barts isn’t really Caribbean outside of its geographic location. It’s very French. House music, champagne, euros instead of steel drums and rum drinks. My husband and I used to go 1-2 times a year since 2004-2014 then with young kids we’ve only been a few times, last time was a year ago so at the rate of St. Barts current popularity this could even be dated. Biggest thing this time of year if you go in March is the Bucket Regatta. It’s going to be pretty busy. It’s fun but it’s busy. Finding accommodations is hard until after Easter because it’s high season and expensive but not impossible depending on your budget. St. Barts isn’t undiscovered like it was 20 years ago either so be prepared for that from anyone that tells you about their trip from the pre Covid era. Definitely consider renting a villa over staying at a hotel. It’s usually cheaper and you get your own private pool in most cases. We have used WIMCO about 80% of the time. The restaurant scene is off the charts if you are into that. If not, having your own kitchen is a blessing because of the fantastic grocery stores. There’s lots of water sports, hiking, and boat rentals. We do all of it so if you have anymore questions I can help. Also, I wouldn’t take the ferry, I’d take the plane from St. Maarten. It’s not that bad after your first time. My kids love it. I’ve only heard horror stories about the ferry.