Took my family: three grand kids; momma (papa had to stay home to mind the store); aunt and friend a week ago. Arrived Friday, 18th; stayed at the Marriott (thanks to suggestions from some on the board) and had a super time. But on Friday, scratched my toe, and by Sunday was in the hospital with a bad infection; people there were great and though no swimming for several days the toe cleared up. One anecdote. Had to return on Tuesday to the 'Wound Center--one hour before the 6 am appointment--which meant I had to be there by 5 am! I should have known better; no one showed up until the surgery doors opened at 6; seen by a doctor (? can't be sure as she didn't speak English--only one on the Island that didn't) who put on a new bandage, said "no" to question on swimming and said "pay" and "eight." Since it was now only 6:15 I was not a happy camper--told the woman at the office window that I had paid on Sunday at 7 am at the Emergency Center but she said I had to pay somewhere else and they didn't open until 8. Then she took pity on me, walked me to the Emergency room where with much explanation I was permitted to pay (25% more than on Sunday and all I got was a new bandage) but then without asking they called a cab for me. I like the hospital. Spent the remainder of the week mostly on the sidelines but did some swimming and soaking in the jacuzzi; watched the kids and parents snorkel; sail; finding huge star fish which they were not permitted to take home. Spent a lot of time in the Casino--won a couple hundred net on Let-it-Rid; hit 12 quads on the quarter slots (so went home with more cash than I came with). Food was excellent but learned that to eat at Ruth Chris needed to make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. The Marriott has only two top restaurants and were full every day--but the usual RC good food. The family went into town while gramps stayed at the pool or casino. The Sunday I enjoyed my hospital visit was Carnival time--the family intended to go but backed out at the last minute so I cannot report on what is a huge spectacle. The people everywhere were wonderfully friendly...loved the island and would like to go back. The casino had no live poker though other casinos on the island do have hold em.

Every evening meal was outstanding (costly too! LOL).

Getting off the island is a nuisance--they want you at the airport 3 hours before departure! Lines long; double security check; checked bags don't go directly to the plane but have to be picked up by hand after the first security check--but here is where age and a cane worked wonders. The USAir check in person insisted I get a "chair"--and as a result I was whisked past all the lines, frisked in the chair and delivered to the gate all in just 12 minutes! Then I sat and waited for 2 & 1/2 hours for the plane of course. Great holiday; happy to make any recommendations.