Planning a spring-break trip or an extra-special summer vacation? Think Caribbean and Bahamas. I know, I know. Bone-chilling winter seems the obvious time to travel to tropical islands. That's what I thought, too, until I started working for a Caribbean travel magazine and found out that most of the trips I'd be taking to the area would be between mid-April and mid-December, when the throngs of tourists disappear and prices at island resorts dip as much as 40 percent.

In 12 years of research, I've found that, despite the lower rates, the top family destinations in the Caribbean and nearby Bahamas don't skimp when it comes to service and activities. At the Fort Recovery Estate in Tortola, your family will enjoy all the comforts of home amidst a paradise of calm waters and tropical breezes.

TORTOLA, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

A relaxed, home-away-from-home atmosphere prevails at the Fort Recovery Estate--an intimate villa enclave by the sea. Complete with fully equipped kitchens, private sun patios and daily maid service, the stylish villas make a great base for families who want to rent a car and explore tranquil Tortola. Video rentals and an on-site children's library cure any rainy-day blues.

Rates, which include continental breakfast, start at $315 a night for four people in a two-bedroom villa from April 15 to May 31--a 25 to 35 percent savings off the winter rates. Book a seven-night stay and Fort Recovery throws in a gourmet welcome dinner and a snorkeling trip. Call 800-367-8455.



Sharon Jaffe Dan, a former senior editor at CARIBBEAN TRAVEL & LIFE, writes from her home outside Washington, D.C.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.