Reader Ashley wants to honeymoon somewhere in the islands (see her question and my answer, below). Anyone been there and have recommendations they want to share?
Q. Hey Jordan!
Where did you and your husband stay while vacationing in the Caymans? My fiance and I are getting married in August and trying to find a beautiful, fun, relaxing resort in the Caribbean. We have been researching tons of places, but it’s hard to get an idea when we haven’t visited the area. When you stayed in the Caymans, was the resort all-inclusive? We are pretty much open to any of the islands…we just want to enjoy the warm sun, delicious cocktails, and being married! We do want some nightlife, but also the option for quiet and relaxing nights. Any ideas you can send my way would be so appreciated!!
Hey Ashley!
We stayed at Morritt’s Tortuga, which is on the East End. The East End is less expensive, but much quieter than the 7 Mile Beach area (which is about 45 minutes away) – it’s mostly for families and people who are into diving. If you go for the East End, I’d actually stay at the Reef (next door to Morritt’s) – the food is a bit better, they have a nice complimentary continental breakfast, and the scene is a bit more lively. Definitely rent a car, though, so you can go to places like Rum Point and Cemetery Reef. If you want a bit more nightlife in close proximity, stay down by 7 Mile Beach. The Hyatt is gorgeous, but definitely on the expensive side.
It’s tough to find all-inclusive resorts in the Caymans (I think there’s only one) – it’s just not really that kind of vibe. But I’m all about the all-inclusives: I’ve been to several in Mexico, and have always had a fantastic time. The food has ranged from fine to pretty good – but all-inclusives (or at least the ones I’ve been to) are generally not about a fine dining experience (unless you pay for that – some are super-fancy); they’re more about having fun minus the money worries, which for me is the #1 goal on a vacation. I also – don’t laugh – really like participating in the activities (dance classes, painting lessons, etc) that they usually have at all-inclusives. So that’s what I’d do. (Above, that’s Kendrick at the Sandos all-inclusive in Cozumel, where we spent our first anniversary.)
Of the honeymoon-friendly spots I’ve personally been to, I’d recommend Grand Cayman or St. John for non-inclusive, and Cozumel or Cancun (really: if you go at anytime other than Spring Break it’s not total madness, and there are some beautiful and very reasonable resorts) for all-inclusive. I’ve also heard that Belize and Turks & Caicos are spectacular.
Have fun!
J
