Looking for an all-inclusive (I think) in the summer months (June or July) for about a month out of Chicago or Moline, IL. Any hints or ideas? Want beach and recreational opportunities without hassle for 6 people.

I'm not a fan of all-inclusives anyway, but I sure can't imagine staying in one for a month.

I'd look at condo rentals for that kind of time frame. You can cook some meals, do some take-out, mix your own drinks, and probably come out money ahead over what an all-inclusive would cost.

I don't care for resort areas, tend to travel to some of the less popular islands, so will let others give more specific recommendations.

Unless you want to come to Ambergris Caye in Belize, then I might be able to help.

Is the $3500.00 for a week? A month? Per person, per couple?

Sorry, I meant one week! gosh, I can't imagine an all-inclusive for a whole month either...sorry about that!

Are you bringing children or do you want adults only? Are you expecting all six to stay together in one room??????

I'm still confused. Is that $3,500 for each person for one week, or is it $3,500 for 6 people for one week? If it's the former, almost any resort in the Caribbean would do, but if it's the latter, I don't think you'll find anything at all. The budget is far too small.

Six people will have to book a minimum of 2 rooms, but three rooms would be best unless some of the 6 are children.

Sorry...okay, there are 6 adults (3 couples) looking at staying for about 7 nights in the Caribbean after June 1. We want to snorkel, dive and relax on the beach probably in an all-inclusive. Currently we are looking at Punta Cana, but are willing to go anywhere really. Probably flying out of Chicago, but could be Des Moines, Cedar Rapids or Moline as well. $3500 would be per couple, but if we could find something with good reviews for between $2000 and $2500/couple, that would be fabulous!!

I would look into Mexico. You can fly into Cancun. There are great choices throughout Riviera Maya. I am not a big AI person, but have stayed at the Royal Playa del Carmen and loved it. The rooms are beautiful, food is very good, drinks are great and the location is perfect. You are a quick walk to great shops and nightlife. I loved not feeling trapped at the resort and going to different places vs Punta Cana where you are trapped. There is also the ferry to Cozumel within walking distance. Ruins are a great excursion too. I believe the price is about $330-$375 per night for 2. There is also a brand new AI 2 miles from Playa called Grand Sunset Princess. A friend just returned and said it was very nice. They are running great prices as it is new. You get alot for your $ in Mexico.

The Royal Playa del Carmen is a great adults only AI.
If you want to stick to Punta Cana, look into Escellence Punta Cana which is also an adults only AI with a beautiful beach and great food.

Okay...so I think we have decided on Dominican Republic...where to go from here, though, would be helpful! Looking at the Sunscape Resorts (both La Romana and Punta Cana) as it sounds like they are nice, reasonable and have decent food...please let me know what you think. The Excellence is a little expensive, but I am not ruling anything out. Thanks!