My husband and I have been to the BVI's 20+ times, bareboating most of those trips, and have a bareboat trip planned for April. We want to get a way for a week in January and want to try somewhere new. We will be land based this trip.

We don't need fancy, something clean, on a beach preferably a pool. I've even considered all inclusive, just to chill and do nothing, but that might be too boring for us.

I think I've narrowed it down to St. Lucia or Grenada, but I'm open to other options.

Any suggestions?

If those are your choices, I'd choose Grenada over St. Lucia. It's been a while since I've been to either, but I found Grenadians to be among the warmest, kindest, and friendliest of all the people I've encountered in the Caribbean.

Topographically, there are some similarities between the islands -- lush vegetation, high hills, geological features. Beyond that, Grenada has some gorgeous beaches (natural ones), including white sand Grand Anse, which you don't necessarily expect for a volcanic island. Also, Grenada grows a lot of spices and some of its own food, which lends itself to a unique local cuisine.

There are lots of unique local accommodations on the island. The best beaches are on the L'anse Aux Epines (Prickly Bay) peninsula around through Grand Anse, so if beaches are important, that's where you might want to look. I'll also point you to La Sagesse, which is on the Atlantic coast; it's a grey sand beach which will make you think of the South Pacific, and there is a modest inn there.

Totally agree with Eva, Grenada has it all over St. Lucia, especially the beaches and food. They also have problems with crime.

never been to st lucia but have been to grenada a few times and would highly recommend it....we just returned on tues and can share lots of info....

sent you a PM w/more info on where to stay, etc.

I love both islands. But on St Lucia, we really enjoyed staying at Fond Doux in the Soufriere area. It isn't on the water, but has a great pool. Wonderful meals. Great hosts. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" />

Okay, I just read your comment below. Maybe this isn't for you. But for someone who wants to get away and relax, read, hike, meet people from all over the world, it's great. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

I really like being able to walk the beach to different restaurants, bars and shops. I tend to get bored sitting at the same place.

That place looks really lovely and peaceful! Thanks for the recommendation.

Check out VRBO when looking - you may find some good deals. That is how we found the place we stayed at last month.

Capella resort would be a great place to stay. There's a beach you can get to right nearby and a further beach they can take you to as well.

In your narrowing things down, did you consider Puerto Rico at all? We spent the last two nights of our last trip there at the El Conquistador resort. we loved it even though we only had 1 day to enjoy it. We tried to do as much as we could though. There seems to be plenty to do there though - they have their own private island with a restaurant. Plus plenty of options at the resort itself. Plus side is that it is very easy to get there as well.

Grenada hands down!

Thank you for the input!

We decided to go to Grenada. We will be down from Jan. 21-Jan. 28th. We are staying at a hotel on Pink Gin Beach. Looking forward to exploring a new island.

Good choice Colleen. I've spent a lot of time on both St Lucia and Grenada. Much prefer Grenada.

Take your handheld vhf with you and listen in to the Grenada Cruisers Net (http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/Grenada/grenada-vhf-cruiser-s-net-radio-information) and you'll find out what the yachties are up to that day. You and Don should be able to join in with some fun events and maybe even get out on the water.

Have fun.

Thanks Mike, we will bring our handheld. Carolyn suggested the same thing!

Hope to get out on the water a couple times at least.