mikster

Hello Fodorites,

I have a friend (single dad) who is interested in a beach vacation for him and his three kids, ages, 4, 8 and 12. He is flying from New York and is looking for something direct and no longer than 4 hour flying time. Would be great if he had a place where he could also enjoy the beach and where the kids could have some activities. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thanks.

WWK

Budget, please!

mikster

Maybe around 500 a night?

WWK

Time of year makes a big difference. But even so, that's a very tight budget for the Caribbean. He will need to get two rooms at most hotels/resorts.

His money will go farther in Mexico, if he's interested, but still he'd need two rooms for five people.

suze

$500 a night is a "very tight budget"? Really? Aren't there 2-bedroom rooms at resorts that would work?

genio67

If I am reading this correctly it's 4 people (Dad and 3 kids). If so, the Tamarijn in Aruba has rooms with 2 full size beds in them, so they could share beds and stay in one room. My wife and I and our 2 kids stayed in one room with no problem. He might have to call them though as the website only allows for 2 children per room and they charge less for kids so I am not sure how that all works with 3 kids. They also regularly have specials. The rooms are literally on the beach and it's all inclusive which is great with kids.

Although the flight from NYC to Aruba is scheduled for more than 4 hours, it's just barely and not much difference than flying to most Caribbean islands.

WWK

I guess I misread this. If he only needs one room with two double beds, he could also look at Hilton Aruba, formerly Radisson Aruba. Best part of Palm Beach, very close to restaurants, shopping, and I believe they have a kid's club on site.

Rooms in late April are running about $259/night with two double beds. There's probably an extra charge for additional child.

Holiday Inn Aruba is a bit less, but not as nice as The Radisson.

mikster

It is just four people....dad and the children...thanks so much for the info.

albee622

When our kids were younger we took them to The FDR in Jamaica. Every family gets their own nanny and the children's program is phenomenal. All inclusive, small with tons of things for the kids to do. We loved it and so did the kids.