Originally Posted by
duende
My ideal bike would:
1. Be made somewhere besides China.
2. Would cost $500 or less.
3. Would weigh 25 lbs or less.
4. Would fit into roll-on airline luggage that doesn't cost a lot to purchase.
5. Would have at least a few different gears.
There is no such thing as an inexpensive luggage that does not cost a lot to purchase. In particular, one that is large enough is going to cost almost as much as your budget! I would just buy a couple of 26' inch Schwalbe Marathons, brake pads , grease, rear rack along and some good quality Park Tools. This whole setup should cost less than $200.00 dollars in total.
When you arrive at your destination, buy a cheap used mountain bike or even a department store bike. Install the Marathons, brake pads, rear rack and do a good tune up. You now have a solid bike ready for the islands.
After the trip, put the cheap tires that came with the bike and take the Schwalbes back with you. You might be able to sell the bike for a song and get some of your money back.