Looking for a New Adventure Spot | Debbie's Caribbean Resort Reviews Forums

I’m hoping that Debbie’s community might lend its expertise in giving me a “starting point” in researching my family’s next vacation. My wife and I (early thirties) wish to take our children (4 and 2), along with my parents (late fifties) to an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean/Central America. We’re somewhat experienced mid-tier “A.I.” patrons, having visited Costa Rica, Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica…but I’m having difficulty getting started in my research. Ideally, I’m looking for a mildly “upscale” A.I. resort that I can be confident that my parents, who are not experienced international travelers, will enjoy. A nice beach and blue water are highly desired, and legitimate, non-exploitative eco-tourism opportunities would be a bonus. Of our experiences/observations thus far:Costa Rica: We loved the natural excursions we were able to take…but my parents & children would not do well with the all-day nature of the trips. It takes hours and hours of winding through the mountains to take most excursions (Arenal, Tabacon, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, etc) no matter where you stay. In addition, most of the A.I. resorts are on the Pacific coast, with unspectacular beaches and dangerous riptides. Dominican Republic: A generally nice stay for us…but the beaches are all public, which means constant, aggressive “vendor” bombardment. My parents would find that to be a major turn-off, as did we. In addition, the “eco” opportunities were very zoo-like and distasteful to us. Mexico: We enjoyed Riviera Maya greatly, as well as the Playa del Carmen area. The beach/water were wonderful…it was great to get out and mingle in “Playa”…but the current violence and unrest in Mexico concerns me. Cozumel would be a possibility, but I don’t quite understand the “setup” there…are the resorts actually out on the island? Or are they on the mainland and classified as “Cozumel”? Do you typically fly into Cancun and then ferry across to the island? Jamaica: My parents would not be amused with the prevalence of marijuana and other recreational substances that we encountered there. Small Islands: Many of the small islands are (a) out of our price range, (b) too geared toward golf/gambling/shopping/money for our purposes, or (c) too much of a beach-only destination for our purposes. Most of the very upscale, small islands are out of “contention” for us. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Besides going on a cruise, this would be my parents’ first “real” trip to the Caribbean/Central America, and I want to err on the side of a nice resort and conservatively “enjoyable” area. Thanks and happy travels!

Whew, you’ve given yourself some challenges. I think perhaps you are guessing what your parents may of may not like is off the mark. My wife & I are in our late 50’s and your description sounds more like late 80’s to me. Sorry if I offended some late 80’s people.

I agree Mayan coast is one of my favorites. If you’ve been to PdC, you should have gone to the beach and you’d be staring right at Cozumel. Personally, I’d stay on the mainland for greater variety of everything. I was there last year and I felt as safe as any vacation spot we’ve ever been to and much more safe than any major US city. I think what you are seeing in the media is blown out of proportion.You didn’t mention Cuba. That makes me believe that you may be American. Even if you are, your list should have Cuba at the top because it fits your criteria so well for price and safety. Lots of Americans travel to Canada, then fly to Cuba. I’m not as big a Cuban fan as most on this forum but it is well worth going.

Other thoughts: USVI is very nice, bit pricey but doesn’t need to be or for a bit of everything, I’d look at cruises. A decent cruise is about the same price as an AI to Mexico and you’ll see a lot more.

Many nevertheless commemorate Mexico’s Independence Day. On Sept 16 the holiday is celebrated. On Mexican Independence Day 2010, Mexico celebrates 200 years of independence. A common misconception in the United States of America is that Mexican Independence Day is May 5: Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo is recognized to remember the Battle of Puebla. This is why everything seems more festive around May 5. Sept 16, 1810 was the time that Mexico started its 10 year long war with Spain for independence. This is why we commemorate on Sept 16 Mexico’s Independence Day. Within the last two centuries, a lot has changed. Mexico is a different place. In 2010, the country has crime, human rights issues and drug violence to battle now.

I am with Dax, look into Cuba, you might want to avoid Varadero, very crowded and less out doors activities. But Cayo Coco offers excellent beaches, good excursions and a wide variety of hotels to please every one. Plus it’s a less than 15 minutes bus drive to most hotels… which is a major plus with younger kids, especially after a few hours in the plane no need to add another one, or more, on a bus.

Let us know where you decide to look into, I am sure you will end up with loads of suggestions!

I would consider Panama as an opinion.Much as we enjoy Cuba, and despite the bad press Mexico is getting these days, I’d still consider Mexico- primarily the Mayan Riviera area and Huatulco.

Cozumel is a divers paradise. The resorts are indeed right on the island. Depending on where you are traveling from, there are direct flights to Cozumel. It depends on the tour operator as some do fly into Cancun and then it’s a bus plus ferry ride over to Coz.

saron Guest

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