Bahamas - it sounds like some here didn’t love Atlantis, but we really liked it. Big complex; just pick the right building for you. Not all-inclusive, and yes food can get pricey (Nobu, Jose Andres’ Fish, Michael White’s Paranza, Carmines, etc). The Royal Tower is the one w/ the casino and the building you see in all the ads and the Bond movie; and yes it can get crowded. But I’d suggest where we stayed: the Cove is MUCH nicer, great private beach area and all five buildings have free shuttles that run to each other. And there is SO much for your kids to do, so many water sports and rides and dolphins, shows, etc etc. Highly recommend.
Jamaica - you cannot go wrong with the music & food. I’d avoid the Marriott properties (most are trash), but absolutely loved the RIU hotels there. All-inclusive, if that’s a plus. And again, the food (jerk, curry, festival, etc etc). Negril is odd, usually either boring or nude & kinda wild. Mo Bay and Ocho Rios are more of a happy medium, and closer to the airport. Kids might like Dunn’s River falls & ziplining, too. Tons of direct flights from both Newark and JFK
Aruba - the beaches (at both the Ritz and Stellaris/Ocean Club) are solid. Arid & pack on the sunscreen. Food was pricey since pretty much EVERYTHING is imported. Didn’t love downtown Oranjestad unless you’re looking for diamonds/jewelry. But water sports were everywhere and liked the mini-sub. Little longer flight.
Sorry if this is kinda long.
