Affordable Private Villa in Caribbean

[av8er23]

I will be going on a honeymoon in May 08. Of course my fiancé and me have interest in diving and have been researching many of the all-inclusive resorts. One that has come up many times is the Couples Negril in Jamaica. I have just recently started research on a private villa. I understand that I we would not get the service that we would get at an all-inclusive resort but it would be very private. A friend recently mentioned that he rented a place in the Turks and Caicos that came with a small boat. This sounded really cool. Not particularly to dive off of but just to cruise around in the blue waters surrounding the island. Has anyone ever heard of places like this? A small private beach would be really cool as well. Please share any recommendations or experiences.

 

[DeputyDan]

Look at www.vrbo.com

 

[diversteve]

A couple places to look:

http://www.caribbeanway.com/
http://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/caribbean

 

[phelana]

I have been a travel agent since 87 so that is my frame of reference. Personally I am not a fan of AI's because they limit your experience and exposure to the islands. Having said that I feel the AI's in Jamaica are tourist mills to some degree catering to the wholesale market. A villa is a great way to experience an island BUT can be very price for just one. Usually they are meant to be shared by a small group or family. What about a condo if you want to self cater? Caymen, Turks and Bonaire, 3 dive spots that come to mind will meet your needs.

Peace

Ann Phelan

 

[shontz]

Phelana, I agree with you for the most part except that the OP mentioned Couples Negril and I can assure you that the Couples Resorts (Negril, Swept Away, Oco Rios, San Soucci) are anything but "tourist mills". They are small by resort standards and the staff will know your name within a day or two. They also encourage interaction with staff, non-touristy local venues and the true Jamaican experience, if that is what you want. Of course guests can do the boring such as Magaritaville, but ask to see the real Jamaica and they will gladly show you. My wife and I got lucky and found Couples as we can't stand the large, touristy resorts where you are hearded like cattle and given some wristband identifying you. Just my two cents.

 

[dashark]

Grand Cayman does have everal options that fit these requirements. 7 mile beach has many private condos/houses within easy diving range. However, you will be sharing the beach. although it is quite beautiful.
Cayman kai (spelling?) is on the North sound and a bit more private if I remember correctly. When I researhed our trip, there were several private houses for rent there, not sure about the beaches.
We ended up choosing a very nice condo right on 7mb. great time!beautiful diving!
Just don't forget to do a couple days diving on the east end! By far the best dives we did there.
Turks and Caicos is also another option. Beautiful beaches and great diving as well.
I wouldn't expect much from the diving in Jamaica. especially in comparison to the previously mentioned destinations....

 

[diver 85]

Grand Cayman does have everal options that fit these requirements. 7 mile beach has many private condos/houses within easy diving range. However, you will be sharing the beach. although it is quite beautiful.
Cayman kai (spelling?) is on the North sound and a bit more private if I remember correctly. When I researhed our trip, there were several private houses for rent there, not sure about the beaches.
We ended up choosing a very nice condo right on 7mb. great time!beautiful diving!
Just don't forget to do a couple days diving on the east end! By far the best dives we did there.
Turks and Caicos is also another option. Beautiful beaches and great diving as well.
I wouldn't expect much from the diving in Jamaica. especially in comparison to the previously mentioned destinations....

Sounds great but my question is....: why is it called 7 Mile Beach?...It's only 5 miles long(@ least that's what we were told the 1st time there in '86).....

 

[dashark]

Sounds great but my question is....: why is it called 7 Mile Beach?...It's only 5 miles long(@ least that's what we were told the 1st time there in '86).....

In that case, maybe you could get a discount......

 

[diver 85]

In that case, maybe you could get a discount......

not me..........I went to GC 2X a year from '86 thru '93.......the only time I'm back there is changing planes to Little cayman...........waaaaay too many people & cars on GC......you take it..............GEAUX TIGERS............