In article
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cjra wrote:
French isn't a requirement, just a small preference for me...of course
part of that is because I envision the English speaking islands to be
more heavily touristed by Americans and commercialized. I'd rather
avoid both just because I want to be somewhere 'different' - not like
an extension of the US with all the same stuff, KWIM?

Your suggestions for St. Maarten are appreciated...sounds nice,
although now you've said commercialized I hesitate. Where else would
you suggest? I really really really don't like all-inclusives if I can
avoid it.

All the worst of the commercial stuff is on the Dutch side. There is one
large and very wonderful SuperMarche on the French side but all the big
box stores and fast food is on the Dutch side. I also second the
suggestion to stay in Grand Case. It's lovely and full of AMAZING
restaurants. I've stayed at the Grand Case Beach Club which is just
north of town and has a nice little calm beach perfect for a child. It
was an easy walk to that end of Grand Case, and they will rent a car for
you as well.

Traffic on the island however is very bad. There is of course just 1
road around the island and it's always always slow everywhere. But still
fun. It's one of my favorite islands after Anquilla.

If money is no object my first choice in islands is Anguilla but it's
very expensive. The Cuisinart Resort there has lots of kids and the
beaches on Anquilla are some of the very very best in the world. I have
stayed at several places there and love the island dearly. Very very
untouristy.

My final suggestion would be Trinidad. It's English speaking. All the
trashy stuff is on Tobago. There's not a single chain fast food place,
no Donna Karan or Rolex adds. It's very very much the old Caribbean that
is gone from most places. Everyone is lovely and helpful.