I posted something similar in the Central America Forum, but I am also looking at Caribbean possibilities. Basically, we're a large group (ages 17-50s/ 12-18 people) looking to rent a house with a daily chef, but also considering hotels/resorts for ~ 7 days the week between Christmas and New Years.
We're looking mostly for a nice beach vacation where we can play beach volleyball, swim, and relax, with a couple days of adventurous inland excursions (not so much snorkeling or diving). Our initial idea is Costa Rica, spending a couple nights at Arenal National Park to see the Volcano, waterfalls, maybe white water rafting before heading to the beach for the remainder. Any suggestions for Caribbean islands that can offer a similar combination of relaxation and island exploration?
Thanks!
Suggestions for Large Family Beach Holiday Trip?
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my first suggestion it that you decide on one place & stay there. the logistics of moving 12-18 people 3 or 4 days into a trip would be horrendous.
second, be aware that many resorts & villas require a 2 week stay during xmas/new years.
what do you plan to spend per night? is one person treating? do you all fly from one place?
3 places are known for staffed villas - barbados, maya riviera & jamaica.
barbados is gorgeous but does not have waterfalls/rafting.
no volcanos except on montserrat & extinct one on st. lucia.
jamaica has great waterfalls & rafting. has wonderful mtn areas to explore - go to coffee plantation or rum distillary. plenty of large beachfront fully staffed villas.
maya riviera (south of cancun to tulum) has the most activities in one area - cenotes to explore, ziplines, atv jungle rides, duty free in playa del carman, explore ruins (coba, tulum, chichen itza), horseback on the beach, kayaking in sian ka'an biosphere, fishing (deep sea or bone), good snorkel/diving, 2 fantastic eco-water parks - xcaret.com , xel-ha.com for tons of info on this area including villas look at locogringo.com you can email lg with your needs & budget & they'll let you know what villas are still available.
this is the busiest & most expensive time of year in the caribbean - book as soon as you can
hope this helps
No matter what you decide...book soon. That is such a busy travel time and places fill up early.
I agree with the Riviera Maya area. You may be better off booking a condo with that many people. In that area you can stay in one place and explore without having to move to a different home base.
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