CARIBBEAN

SUCH A DEAL

Fall is one of the best seasons for deals in the Caribbean and Bahamas. Since this is also hurricane season, best to check hotel cancellation policies and details of your travel insurance before you book.

Here are a few options. They aren't always cheap -- but they are values, depending on your wallet. And if you don't find what you need here, ask whatever resort you choose; they're likely to have a deal.

FREE AIRFARE

In these times of painful airfares, here's a deal with real value: Book a minimum three-night stay by Sept. 2 at romance-oriented Sandals resorts in Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia and The Bahamas, and get up to $550 per person (depending on the location) credited to your bill to offset airfare. Travel must be booked by Sept. 30 and completed by Dec. 20. Prices start at $190 per person, per day, for all-inclusive packages before the credit is applied; some blackout dates apply. Details: 800-SANDALS, www.sandals.com.

ARUBA

• A five-night package for two at Bucuti Beach Resort costs $1,459 through Dec. 23; it includes room, breakfast each day, one dinner, day snorkeling or sunset cruise, and all taxes. www.bucuti.com, 888-4- BUCUTI.

• The Aruba Marriott is offering a $250 per room ''airfare credit'' to guests with a minimum four- night stay. The $250 is credited off the final bill from the hotel and valid through Dec. 15. Book at www.arubamarriott.com; for Fly for Less package, enter promotional code P50. (011-297) 586-9000 or 800-223-6388. Rates from $359.

NASSAU

At the Wyndham Nassau Resort & Crystal Palace, get a fourth night free with a three-night minimum stay through Dec. 31. The rate starts at $229 per night and includes breakfast. 242-327-6200 or 877-999-3223; www.wyndham.com.

ST. LUCIA

• Anse Chastenet, one of the Caribbean's most romantic resorts, offers rates beginning at $5,242 for a seven-night package for two including all meals, drinks, house wine, sporting gear and several excursions. www.ansechastanet.com; 800-223-1108.

• At the other end of the pricing spectrum, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa offers a rate of $99 per person, double occupancy, through September 30. It includes meals, children's programs and airport transfers. www.cbayresort.com, 866-978-6226.

GRENADA

Children 16 and under stay free with parents in a one-bedroom suite at Blue Horizons resort; children 11 and under eat free as well under some dining plans. Maximum two children per room. Alternatively, parents can book a second room at half price. Good through Dec. 15. Rates start at $140 per person per night. www.grenadabluehorizons.com; 800-44-UTELL.

JAMAICA

The ''Reconnect Package'' at Ritz-Carlton's Rose Hall resort starts at $269 per night and includes daily breakfast for two and a $100 resort credit good for spa, activities, dining and shopping at the resort. Through Dec. 22. Similar packages are offered at other Ritz-Carltons in the Caribbean. 800-241- 3333; www.ritzcarlton.com.

BONAIRE

Coupons for rebates on your checked luggage fees and discounts on car rentals, diving and more are offered to visitors to Bonaire through the website, www.paradiserebates.com.

Bonaire info: 800- BONAIRE; www.tourismbonaire.com.

-- JANE WOOLDRIDGE

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