Bahamas vs Cayman vs Aruba?

Discussion in 'On The Road Again' started by slothman, Feb 13, 2010.

  1. slothman

    slothman < 25 Posts

    Hello. Planning on a 4-5 day Caribbean trip with the wife. Never been to the region. I've searched and read through most of the previous discussions on this topic on Hornfans, but wanted to ask for recommendations specific to what we have in mind.

    - Laid back beaches to relax. More like Ft. Lauderdale, less like South Beach.

    - Would still like a place to have metropolitan-esque shopping and dining. We don't really need total seclusion.

    - Wouldn't mind an older crowd. We're in our 30's and are starting to feel out of touch with the college-aged folks.

    We're thinking maybe the Cayman Islands, Atlantis Paradise Island, or Aruba? But again, we're newbies and don't know much about the various islands.

    Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
     
  2. MaceHorn

    MaceHorn 100+ Posts

    I did Grand Cayman last year and just got back from Aruba three weeks ago. I don't need to go back to either place. Both are deserts barren of anything but scrub brush and cactus. Both have well-done man-made beaches and beach resorts, which appeal mainly to Europeans, they say.

    I say Bahamas, for beauty, natural beaches and wonderful people.
     
  3. cbs

    cbs 500+ Posts

    Never been to Aruba, but I've been to Grand Cayman several times. Seven-mile beach is about as good as any you'll find (it's natural --- not sure what MaceHorn is talking about). Georgetown is well developed with excellent shopping, and there are several restaurants that are very good. Since you've never been to the Caribbean, I'm assuming you're not a diver, but there are a number of snorkeling destinations that are very good that you can swim to from shore (Smith Cove is very nice). It doesn't have a lot of night life so it doesn't cater to the young Spring Break type crowd that you might find at Cancun or other places.

    I have never stayed at Atlantis, but have been to the Nassau area. While the beaches were good, I considered every minute I spent in the town of Nassau wasted (except for conch fritters and Kalik --- that was time well spent). I just didn't like the town. Having said that, you can stay at Atlantis/Paradise Island and never need to leave.

    I also loved the Turks & Caicos. Provo isn't as developed shopping wise, but it has fantastic beaches.
     
  4. hellbunny

    hellbunny 100+ Posts

    A few things I learned on my trip to Antigua (which I wouldn't recommend based on your criteria) and researching the region:

    Many (most?) Caribbean nations are dirt poor. The touristy places are all very nicely built out but a few blocks away might be near/poverty. I saw millionaire properties built-out next to abandoned husks of shacks.

    Some people travel to the Caribbean but then spend the entire time in resort swimming pools, eating at resort restaurants, doing resort activities... which is their choice but I found it puzzling.

    Generally the food quality isn't so great in the Caribbean. However, some islands have reputations as great eating destinations which is something I'll be looking at next trip.

    All inclusive is a nice convenience (or fallback), especially for first timers, but I know you can do better roaming the island(s).

    Many islands are frequented by certain nationalities. You'll find high concentrations of Brits on some islands, French on others, Germans on yet others and so on. You'll often also find corresponding shops and cuisine.

    I learned I love (nearly) deserted beaches, especially at night. I picked the place we went based mostly on the beaches.

    Duty-Free can sometimes be a great deal, just do your research well beforehand.

    Be friendly!

    Relax!
     
  5. WillWork4Horns

    WillWork4Horns 100+ Posts

    I have been to Grand Cayman 3 times and would love to go back! The water is clear,the beaches are beautiful and the people are very friendly. It is extremely safe,you can walk anywhere even at night and not be bothered. There is ample shopping in Georgetown. I would suggest staying at the Ritz Carlton or the Westin both located on 7 mile beach. I stayed at the Ritz Carlton and it was really nice but really expensive as well. For a fun evening out go to the Royal Palms. It is an outdoor bar right on the beach with live music on the weekend.
     
  6. someone

    someone 250+ Posts

    Where are you flying from? If you have never been to St. Lucia go there. Longer flight but so worth it.
     
  7. EJC+1

    EJC+1 250+ Posts

    I've been to Aruba twice but I'm going to Grand Cayman this summer to compare. Supposedly GC has better snokeling and underwater life.

    Aruba is fantastic for relaxing on badass beaches. The resorts there are great as well. Shopping, food, and nightlife are excellent. The island is also extremely safe.
     
  8. Lidig8r

    Lidig8r 250+ Posts

    St. Maarten... beaches are wonderful, shopping in Marigot is very good... Phillipsburg is much more touristy but has a decent casino... Orient Beach is fun.. snorkeling and diving is very good.

    Was at Turks & Caicos last year after Ike.. Provo.. beaches were good.. food was good... shopping was mediocre at best. On the other hand.. I did get to see a Nautilus while snorkeling at Da Conch Shack. It was amazing!!
     
  9. slothman

    slothman < 25 Posts

    Just booked a trip to Grand Cayman. Staying at the Westin.

    Thanks folks for the various opinions.
     
  10. smwhorn

    smwhorn Guest

    AWESOME wall dives if you are into scuba. Have a great trip.
     
  11. Nonbryan

    Nonbryan 100+ Posts

    Sloth,

    Are you back yet? What were your opinions? My wife and I are going to GC next week staying at the Ritz and the Westin. Any do's or not do's that you would suggest for us? On a side note, how were the cigars down there and what kind of prices did they run?
     
  12. Nuclear Bear

    Nuclear Bear 1,000+ Posts


     
  13. slothman

    slothman < 25 Posts

    Nonbryan, sorry for the late reply.

    We don't leave for another couple of weeks. I guess you're there right now. Maybe I should turn it around and ask you for your thoughts and tips when you return. :)
     
  14. UTDude

    UTDude 100+ Posts

    Never been to Aruba . . . sorry.

    Have been to Grand Cayman several times . . . to include a honeymoon with Wife #1. This is one of my favorite spots, because it is clean and the people there are very nice.

    Have been to The Bahamas several times. It is great for the adventure and fun. If you choose this site, you MUST go on the SWIM WITH THE SHARKS adventure. It is amazing as you are in the water with 20+ sharks swimming around you. Google it.

    Have fun.
     
  15. pulque

    pulque 1,000+ Posts

    Aruba is extremely windy...
     

Share This Page