For a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation where you can lounge on almost-empty beautiful white sand beaches, try Anguilla. With only 35 square miles, Anguilla (which means eel in Spanish) offers 70 restaurants and 33 beaches. A 20-minute ferry ride from St. Martin''s, its average year-round temperature is a balmy 80 degrees. With soil too poor for most crops, Anguilla became known for its salt mines. Now, however, tourism is their main livelihood.

Many of Anguilla''s beaches offer barbecue shacks, as well as water that''s perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving and windsurfing. Sailing, their national sport, and deep-sea fishing are also available. For something a bit more adventuresome, consider swimming with the dolphins at Dolphin Discovery at Isla Mujeres. They offer several dolphin encounters including one for $69USD where a dolphin offers a kiss and hug, a song and a handshake. This all takes place in shallower water. For $199USD, encounter and feed dolphins, manatees and sea lions at Discovery Plus. Visit www.dolphindiscovery.com/cancun-islamujeres/isla-mujeres-activities.asp for information on these and more encounters.

For dining at a reasonable price, try the English Rose (www.fodors.com/world/caribbean/anguilla/review-153134.html) located on Main Street in The Valley. They offer such local foods as beer-battered shrimp, Caesar salad with jerk chicken, baked chicken and snapper creole and even the locals eat there. Their phone number is 264-497-5353 but they''re closed on Sundays.

When visiting Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, stop by the Madeariman Reef Bar and Restaurant (phone 264-497-5750) for a relaxing afternoon sunning and swimming on their beach. Lunch diners get complimentary use of a beach umbrella and beach chairs all afternoon. Their cuisine is French and includes soups, salads and grilled items. Plus Madeariman is right next door to Uncle Ernie''s BBQ for easy bar-hopping!

For those who enjoy staying at unique spots, take a look at the Arawak Beach Inn. They are located at Island Harbour and have 13 rooms and 4 suites. Arawak Beach Inn is a colorful 2-story villa with their own private beach just a five-minute walk away. They offer Oceanfront rooms on the ocean level, each with their own terrace, refrigerator, and ceiling fan. While most don''t have TV''s and aren''t air conditioned, local island breezes are sufficient to keep guests comfortable. Deluxe rooms are also available which offer slightly better accommodations for a slightly higher price. Wifi is offered in the common areas. See what they offer at www.arawakbeach.com or call 264-497-4888 for information or 877-427-2925 for reservations.

While not a shopping or sightseeing mecca, Anguilla is the perfect spot for a few days of relaxation and rejuvenation from a normally hectic lifestyle.