dragonrider

Which one is best for family vacation? We've been to several other islands and are looking for something that's more than just a beach. Want nice white sand beaches, great snorkeling, golf, perhaps some mountainous hiking and some unique culture - the local stuff. Was looking at either Punta Cana, Culebra or San Juan beach area. Any advice or suggestions or which offers the best of above? Kids are pre-teens. Would love to find a beachfront condo too if anyone has suggestions.

laplaya

People got sick in Dom Rep.

Try Puerto Rico.

ishkribbl

Dragonrider: Be sure to ask the people offering you advice if they have actually ever been to the location they are commenting on.

travelhappyfamily

I can't speak to how DR compares, but we did PR in November with our kids (though younger than yours - four and seven) and it was wonderful. Old San Juan provides ample culture and historical opportunities (the forts - especially El Morro - are stunning) and El Yunque was amazing (the hike to La Mina falls was a highlight). If you're thinking Culebra, you might also look into Vieques - the beaches are beautiful and we enjoyed the snorkeling. Also, look into the bio-bay . It's a quick flight from San Juan to Vieques (and the scenery is very cool).

ishkribbl

Dragonrider,
We were in PR last February and I think you can really have it all there. Why not stay a couple of days in the SJ area and do all the sightseeing of Old Town and forts, rent a car and drive to the El Yungue area and spend a couple of days exploring the rainforest then drive to Fajardo to catch the ferry to Culebra for a couple of great days of beach and snorkeling. I am not a golfer but know there are great golf resorts in PR. I have spent a week in Culebra but have not visited Vieques. I chose Culebra over Vieques after a lot of research because it sounded more like the laid back, friendly and safe place we were looking for. You do end up driving to most of the great beach areas on Culebra but it is not far at all from place to place- rent a jeep from Carlos, take a snorkel trip with Taz Hamrick (with good sightseeing from his boat and a visit to Culebrita), Even though it is not beachfront, in Culebra try Bahia Marina for a condo with a great view, pool,little bar and restaurant on the premises.

laplaya

If you choose DR, please read
about malaria.

kfusto

I've been to both and really much prefer San Juan. The DR resorts are all about staying at the resorts. Puerto Rico is far more appealing in terms of the many options it offers along with great food, reasonable flights and everything from history to rain forests to beaches.