I'm taking my husband on a 4 nite vacation to either of these places and can't decide which one. We are in our 40's would like a beach to relax during the day and maybe an excursion to go on and some nite life. Is there a town nearby either of these locations for shopping and nitelife?

Hi Lauren,<BR>I've been to both PDC and Antigua, and they are both great, but very different from each other.<BR>The beaches of PDC are more traditionally pretty - with blinding white sand and turquoise water.<BR>There are some neat funky beach bars and restaurants right at the water's edge. Downtown has a varied and extensive nightlife, and there are many shops and restaurants to choose from in the area. You can taek a day trip to see several different Mayan ruins, or you can take the ferry over to Cozumel for the day. There's a LOT to do and see in the area.<BR>Antigua is a more laid back destination with fewer acitivities to choose from.<BR>One of the best things about Antigua is the party at Shirley Heights on Sunday afternoons with live music and a great view of the sunset over the harbor.<BR>The only night life to speak of is at the resorts or local parties.<BR>The beaches are very nice there also, but I think PDC's is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.<BR>It is easier to find secluded beaches on Antigua where you might be the only 2 people there - especially in the off season. <BR>Either place you choose, you will have a great time.

Also take into consideration that from most areas it is earier and quicker to get to PDC than Antigua.

You don't say where you are originating from but from the sounds of it I would choose PLC. More to do and see. Easier to get to, henceforth, reducing costs. If you only have 4 days no sense in spending alot of time traveling.

I'm just curious about what people's experiences with age have been at Playa Del Carmen? We chose not to go after being told by a number of people that most visitors are in their 20 and 30's. Being in our 40's, we felt like we might not fit in. <BR>BTW, we loved Antigua. Thought the beaches were good, good dining, good accommodations, romantic and an all-around ideal location.

Cindy,<BR>There is a really large cross-section of all ages and cultures in PDC.<BR>In fact, of all of the places I've been, I saw a larger variety of ages and nationalities there than anyplace else.<BR>There are alot of young people, but there are also a lot of just about every age group.<BR>We are 40 and 50 and have never felt out of place there (except for the time we got dressed up to go out to dinner <BR>PDC is very funky and laid back, and I can't imagine anyone feeling uncomfortable there unless they are not open to new experiences.