Lila

<BR>Hi. My friend and I have never traveled in Mexico or South America, but we'd like to take a short trip (4 days) somewhere this winter. <BR> <BR>We'd like to try to find a place that's fairly easy to travel to, inexpensive (this is important), comfortable for women travelers,and not overdeveloped or overcrowded. Also, we'd like to not have to rent a car. <BR> <BR>Is there anywhere in Mexico or South America that someone can recommend? Or maybe we should look in the Carribbean ? Any suggestions would be appreciated. I don't know where to start looking... <BR> <BR>

leila

Consider Playa del Carmen, 1/2 hour south of Cancun. Alot of direct early am flights out of JFK to Cancun, then cab it down to Playa. Much more laid back then Cancun, alot cheaper, much prettier, excellent restaurants, nightlife, beautiful beaches, everythings within walking distance, no car needed.

Leila

Sorry, I forgot to add to above, since youre 2 girls, I would suggest to stay away from the AI's, they are mostly couples & families. If you do consider Playa, stay at a hotel in town on the beach, very nice, mixed crowd. Enjoy!

dan

Try south Florida (Key West) if you only have 4 days. You will be in the air two of those days!

Susan

Dan, from Toronto, it's only a 3 1/2 - 4 hour flight to Cancun,s o I can't imagine that it would be any longer from NYC. I would second the Playa del Carmen recommendation. We have gotten early flights from Toronto and be in Playa early afternoon. It's a nice place to hang out for a few days. <BR> <BR>That's not to say that the Keys wouldn't be fun either, but I can't see that it would be much less time to get there.