ashleerenee

I have been reading for days the pros and cons of Punta Cana versus Negril, Jamaica. We have a budget of around $2500. I have priced resorts in both of these locations, as well as a couple in Mexico and Bahamas. We stayed at Riu Palace in Cabo last year and were very happy with our stay there. I have several friends/family members who have been to Jamaica and RAVE about it. However, the more I read about all the locals hasseling, I am not sure it is the spot for me? I want to go somewhere with gorgeous beaches/water to relax. I dont want to feel like I need to leave the resort the entire time we are there. Any thoughts? Suggestions??

Thanks so much!!

welovemexico

Have you considered Aruba? My husband and I stayed at the Riu in Aruba 4 years ago and loved it. The beach is fabulous and the resort was very nice and close to shops etc. We felt very safe and we not harrassed by beach vendors. We did see a few, but not many and none of them bothered us. I feel the same as you about Jamaica. I have never been, but I've heard the beach vendors are relentless. They harrass all day day. I would hate that. I want to relax or read while on the beach, I don't want to be fending off vendors all day long. Aruba is a lovely island with lots to do.

KVR

Though I love Aruba, I really don't think your $2,500 will get you there. I know it wouldn't me. Aruba does not allow beach vendors.

We love Mexico and have been x 10. You will get the most of your budget there. We've been to Jamaica twice and our trips were fine, but we found the locals quite aggressive in Ocho Rios. Not so much in Negril, so if you are still considering Jamaica, I would go with Negril. We stayed at the RIU Tropical Bay in Negril and did not like it, but that type of atmosphere was not for us. We found the food and reservation system for the ala cart restuarants bad and annoying.

However, if you like the RIU's there are 2 in Negril and 1 in Ocho Rios. There are several in Cancun and the Playa del Carmen area of Mexico.

I don't care for the DR. Been once many years ago and never went back. However, if you are looking to plop down in an AI resort and take advantage of what it has to offer, the the DR might be the right place for you. I personally cannot do that. I have to spend my vacation off the resorts, even AI's, and explore, sightsee, do activites, etc, which is another reason why we love Mexico. Tons of things to see and do there.

ashleerenee

Thanks so much for the replies. While Aruba does sound wonderful, for this trip, I dont think it will be an option.
I was trying to avoid Mexico for this trip, simply because we just went last year. That was my husbands first real "trip" and I want to pick somewhere new for us to visit.

Negril is the only option if we do Jamaica. Still so confused. Ive talked to travel agents, but feel they just push the resorts or places they get kick backs from.

suze

I love Negril Jamaica. It's the only place in Jamaica I would recommend. Don't go to travel agents. Look at this website www.negrilonestop.com