Looking for a suggestion for a quick March trip..

[doctormike]

OK... I just found out that I can get away from March 21-26 of this year... looking for some suggestions from this terrific group!



Criteria:

-Leaving from New York, so would much prefer someplace with minimal travel time (given the relatively short trip)... For example, I love Bonaire, and they have one direct flight a week, but I don't think that I can do it midweek. Anything terrific in the Bahamas? Turks and Caicos? Any good nonstop flights to other places?

-Non-diver traveling with me, so probably better if the place had something else to do while I'm underwater... that's why I didn't think that the Florida Keys would be so great, need a beach, at least...

-Someplace where I could hook up with other divers would be a plus (for example, an all inclusive dive resort).. better than just finding a shop and making the trip every day...

Thanks for your help!

Mike

 

[Doc]

If I had your money I would go to Cayman.

It sounds like the "non diver" companion weighs heavily into this equation- what with your reference to The Keys.

I would say it all hinges on what this non-diving partner wants to do.

Great beaches? How can you beat the stark whiteness of Bonaire? If this dry companion wants umnbrellas in their drinks, try the French islands South of Cuba.

Great beaches, all inclusive, interesting diving (we assume), a midweek only booking, I dunno.....

You hit the nail on the head with that midweek reference. Hard to arrange.

Here's an idea- send the landlubber to the Spa Resorts in Palm Springs... you go diving. Or maybe Club Dread?

 

[doctormike]

If I had your money I would go to Cayman.

Well, the earwax business isn't what it used to be..! heheheh... but I think that I can scrape together enough for this, especially since I have some ticket vouchers (not sure if they will work outside of the US though)...

Great beaches? How can you beat the stark whiteness of Bonaire? I

Gotta say, you make a good point.. Bonaire is AMAZING...! Maybe I can hitch a ride on a midweek cargo plane...

 

[carolrose]

From NY, Bermuda is a short direct flight, but it's not super warm in March. Mexico is nice because there's a ton to do for a non diver (Cozumel or the mainland), and again direct flights. You've only got 5 days, so I'd really focus on places you can fly direct to so you don't eat up half your vacation time on travel.

 

[doctormike]

From NY, Bermuda is a short direct flight, but it's not super warm in March. Mexico is nice because there's a ton to do for a non diver (Cozumel or the mainland), and again direct flights. You've only got 5 days, so I'd really focus on places you can fly direct to so you don't eat up half your vacation time on travel.

Hey, that's an idea... I had forgotten about Cozumel..! have been there many times, and it's pretty cheap to stay. Will have to try Bermuda some summer...

 

[Alex777]

There are several direct flights a week from NY to Grand Cayman, IIRC. And with the gazillion or so dive ops here, there should not be any issue about getting reservations.

 

[robint]

you are looking at peak Spring Break timeframe.... I would check flight availability and hotel availability. I would stay far away from Florida, Bahamas, or Cancun.

Cozumel is always cheapest place to go in Carib.

I think I would check out someplace else off the school kid menu. Puerto Rico is getting alot of press lately. Check Belize and Turks & Caicos, too. Check with some of the tour ops to see what kind of package they can get you on short notice. There might be some really good deals lurking out there......
Caradonna Dive Adventures - Dive Travel and Vacations
or
Caribbean Dive Island Vacations at Bay Adventures


robin

 

[doctormike]

Great ideas, thanks...

Will check out Caymen and maybe see if there is someplace in Puerto Rico (quick flight, and I might be able to use my vouchers!)

 

[ffdiver]

Most of all my trips have been short 4 - 5 days weekends, and my gf just got certified so I know exactly how you feel. Bahamas is an awesome weekend trip, playa del carmen was very awesome and key west was great. Bahamas and Playa del carmen, super easy to find an all inclusive resort, key west I think you would be buying everything ala carte. Key west has the coolest and safest drinking scene if your spouse wants to hit some back while your diving. But they all have very short flights and you should be able to do some very nice dives while your there. Oh and Puerto Rico also, or St. Marteen (Sp?). Jet blue is awesome! If you like the idea of puerto rico, look into the smaller island around PR. Like Culebra or Vieques. You have to get out of San Juan to really enjoy the island!