On the Bahamas’ Paradise Island, much of the glitz and glory goes to Atlantis, but neighboring Riu Palace claims a 3-mile stretch of the same turquoise shores and sugar-white sands – at a fraction of the price. A $35 million renovation in 2009 refreshed the property, which claims 379 guestrooms, many outfitted with ocean-view balconies. The sizeable pool with its swim-up bar, oceanfront lounge chairs, and beach volleyball appease laidback sun-seekers, while more active vacationers can hit the links at Atlantis’ 18-hole Ocean Club Golf Course or enlist in water sports like deep sea fishing and scuba diving (for an extra charge). Guests would be hard-pressed to go hungry or thirsty here, with drinks mixed 24 hours a day and five restaurants – four of which offer à la carte dining, with gourmet dishes like steak and sushi – at your disposal (though note that the specialty restaurants require advance reservations). Even recluses will stay well-sated indoors, as both room service and minibar treats are folded into the rate at one of our top value-oriented, all-inclusive resorts. With online special, winter rates from $192 per person, per night, based on double occupancy; www.paradiseislandriu.com

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