jam

Has anyone stayed at Buscuti's Resort or theTamarind in Aruba? What did you think of each? If given a choice, would you go to Aruba or Tortola? Thanks for feedback

mike

check out The Inn on the Bay(www.saint-lucia.com)

Karen

I would definitely choose Tortola. Neither are my favorite but would choose the non-commercial non-developed Carib-style and limin' of the BVI's. Great sailing and exploring other islands easily by ferry, wonderful people, smaller lowrise resorts and hotels with a natural "tropical" topography. A few nice beaches off the beaten track.

Lee

FYI..KarenW hates Aruba and bad mouths it all the time! So very biased opinion. I think the 2 resorts you are referring to in Aruba are Bucuti and Tamarijn. Though both in the low-rise area they are quite different. Bucuti is a charming, small resort on a very big beach. Not a fancy hotel but with excellent service. Tamarijn is a totally all-inclusive (their sister resort Divi Divi is nicer).

Sally

I can confirm what Lee says: we stayed at the Bucuti twice in a row a number of years ago, and liked it a lot. We especially liked the fact that it was right on a huge beach. You can use the facilities (breakfast, etc.) of the Manchebo Beach Hotel next door. I also remember that there was a nice beach bar, and a nice beach restaurant as well (called Pirate's Nest, I believe). The hotel itself is unpretentious, but clean, quiet and comfortable. Definitely recommended.

Karen

I didn't like my experiences in Aruba, true. Bad mouthing? Don't think so! All opinions are "biased" - that's what an opinion is! Aruba lovers are "biased" the other way! That's good - and different strokes for different folk! Whatever floats your boat! The question is, Which would you go to?" and the islands are very very different and offer very different experiences! Neither is "good" and the other "bad." And I would give the nod to Aruba for long lucious wonderful beaches rather than Tortola.

Alan

Guess Lee hasn't been to both so it is hard for her to compare. I would take Smugglers Cove anyday. Tortola is great with smaller resorts nothing higher than a palm tree and great beach bars and good partying. Beaches are small coves and bays and you can be the only one on the beach. Full moom at Bombas should not be missed by anyone.

Maureen

Jam: I have been to both and really enjoyed both but they are both totally different experiences. It would help to know what you look for in an island vacation. Here are some of the pros and cons of these islands. <BR> <BR>Aruba: Pros: Beautiful beaches, lots of nightlife, casinos, friendly people, high standard of living, many activities, easy to get around. <BR>Cons: Crowded, no lush scenery, little island flavour <BR> <BR>Tortola: Pros: Beautiful scenery, small beaches, good snorkelling/diving/hiking, low key, peaceful <BR>Cons: Hard to get to, harder to get around (need to rent vehicle and drive hilly roads if you want to see more of the island), limited shopping and nightlife (which may not be cons). <BR> <BR>It really depends on YOU!!! <BR>