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-   -   All-inclusive vacation ideas? (https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/all-inclusive-vacation-ideas-88561/)

Gail Birnbaum Oct 2nd, 2000 10:19 AM

All-inclusive vacation ideas?
 
I'm wondering if anyone has suggestions for a family vacation. We'd like to do an all-inclusive so we're not constantly laying out money, and we have no real preference as to where we go, as long as it's warm and there's a variety of things to do. It's a family vacation, but the "kids" are ages 28-33 and we will also have an infant with us. Therefore, we're hoping to not be surrounded by tons of kids, but we do need a place that allows infants and ideally has babysitting. Any ideas would be welcome and much appreciated!!

Christie Oct 2nd, 2000 10:30 AM

Look into the Beaches resorts. They are owned by the same company as Sandals, but they are designed for families.

debbie Oct 3rd, 2000 09:03 AM

Take a look at the all inclusive resorts such as RIU resorts, Allegro or the Iberostar on the Mayan Riveria in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. <BR>Excellent range of food for big and little ones and fully stocked mini bar and mini fridges in the rooms (at the RIU resorts) <BR>It's warm and the beach is huge. The beach along the front of the resorts here goes all the way into PDC so you can walk off those meals. <BR>There is a kids club to park the little ones and keep them amused all day. <BR>For the older ones there is the water sports which are included (snorkelling and scuba will be extra though). <BR>And should you decide to lay out some cash for excursions off the resort there are tonnes of things to do. Or hire a car and tour around on your own. <BR>Either way, check these sites: <BR>.riveramaya.org <BR>.xcaretcancun.com <BR>.xelha.com <BR>.riuhotels.com <BR> <BR>

Nope Oct 5th, 2000 07:39 AM

<BR>I would never, ever take an infant anywhere in Mexico, period. Older kids, ok, but a baby not a good idea in my humble opinion. <BR> <BR>Beaches TCI, good choice, but there will be lots of kids at any Beaches so don't be surprised. Cayman good choice too, not much AI though. <BR> <BR>AI is like cruising. You'll find yourself eating off the resort alot anyway unless everyone just wants to collapse in one place. <BR> <BR>Maybe look into Barbados? Casurarina is good for families or couples, kids are provided with activity areas, etc, but aren't bothersome to adults generally. Nice beaches, music, shopping in the area. Lots to do all over Barbados for those who want to explore. I see lots of families, all ages, in Barbados. Almond Beach, so so. Lots of AI available on the island if you feel you must, but the restaurants are excellent & I've found total cost has actually been less for my family, as we generally eat one light meal, one medium meal & one pig out. In my experience AI's, unless a last minute unbelievable deal, are generally best tho if you are really going to pig out bigtime at every meal. We always overeat & often feel lousy because of it at an AI. Food is so readily available, it's hard not to take advantage, even if you know better. <BR> <BR>Easier psychologically maybe, not to be pulling out your American Express card, depending on your mindset, but not necessarily best value. <BR> <BR>Now, if you are big drinkers, that's a different story ....... ;-) <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR>

Lisa Oct 6th, 2000 08:49 AM

I was married and honeymooned at the Wyndham Sugar Bay on St. Thomas,USVI,in July of 1999.I highly recommend this all-inclusive resort and the island for a vacation.This resort had good food,drinks and rooms with awesome views.There were both couples and families at the resort,but I dont remember there being that many kids.Youll need to check about babysitters.Check out the Wyndham web site and look at the hotel.The deal is great for all that is included.E-mail me with any questions.We plan on returning soon.

Gail Oct 7th, 2000 07:18 PM

Thanks so much for your suggestions. We'll look into all of them.

Janis Oct 26th, 2000 06:48 AM

We took both our kids to CanCun as infants-8 mos and 6 mos and had absolutely no problems at all. We have a timeshare at the Royal Mayan but I know you can rent there as well. It's fabulous. We took ready-to-use formula and all our own baby food. Take plenty of American diapers. Back then--10 and 14 years ago the Mexican versions were very different---but kind of funny. It was great having the babies. They were no problem at all and much better than worrying to death about how they were doing at home. Good luck


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