Caribbean destination???
 

Trying to plan a trip for my family of four, a 19 (son) & 17 (daughter) year old. Looking for a safe, fun & relaxing destination that will provide something for everyone. Would like walk-in snorkeling, air conditioned room a must and beautiful beach location. Cost is a factor, don't want to spend more than $5,000. My husband & I spent our 20th anniversary on St. Lucia, it was amazing but would like to go somewhere new. Would love any suggestions. Thanks!!

You should consider Curacao. I have been going there since 2002 and it just keep getting better, cleaner , safer etc There are several brand new hotels(hyatt , renaissance etc..)and also other low cost hotels. and more on their way. The beaches are very nice. Anyway.. You should consider Curacao..i ´ll be back there soon...

You've tagged Grand Cayman, which has everything you indicated you are looking for except maybe price. Choose a hotel on 7 Mile Beach or there are several condos type places if you're willing to cook a few meals in to save money.

Also look at Turks & Cacios or Aruba. Both are safe destinations with great beaches.

Mexico is getting a bad (unfair) rap right now, but Cozumel and the Riveria Maya have everything at a much better price than any Caribbean Island, which is why we just keeping going back every year.

I hesitate to suggest Curacao. It's difficult to get to and the beaches are coral based instead of sandy. Also, there is no central long stretch of beach, but coves/inlets all over the Island. Mostly on the west side. We did enjoy the Sea Aquarium, but it's not on our return list.

What time of year? That will mean alot for your budget. Also traveling from where?

We would like to go in the next few weeks, hoping that will help us get a deal. We'll be heading out of Atlanta. We've been looking at Barbados as well...

grand cayman should be a great choice for your families needs. quick flt from atl.
good off beach snorkeling, some fun shopping, excursions to stingray city, gorgeous 7 mile beach - with plenty of hotel and dining options within 10-15 mins taxi. very safe as most islanders are employeed. nice botanical garden. the westin might fit your budget but i agree with kvr a condo might cost less and you'll save alot doing breakfast & lunch "at home". another saver is to buy duty free booze on your way and have some cocktails "at home" on your deck or beach.
your budget will go furthest at an all inclusive on maya riviera. (cancun is another quick flt) this would allow your kids to party at night w/out leaving resort property which i assume would be a plus. there are more activities in this area than anyone could do in a week. ziplines, ruins, shopping, atv jungle rides, golf/tennis, snorkel/dive, fishing & 2 fun eco marine parks; xel-ha & xcaret.

Thanks for all your help the trip is planned. Going to Cayman Islands (Grand). Everyone is excited!

Thanks again.

I would say Aruba.. straight flight daily out of Atlanta... you can also check out www.vacationexpress.com I have used them before, there are other destinations there also.. cheapcaribbean also... Caymans would be more expensive... but is nice also.. more to do in Aruba.. for me at least...
Also Playa del Carmen- Riviera Maya, we stayed at RIU Palace.. did Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza, and eco park Xcaret... fun stuff...
Good luck!

Just saw that you booked as I posted!

Stay away from the Turtle Farm.. I think it's a rip off.. You pay more for the Cayman Dollar, so be aware of the currency exchange! We rented a car, which to us was a must, you can do the entire island in a day.. it's not that big.. we went to Rum Point to get a Catamaran to go to Stingray City.. I think it was?
Take some snorkling gear with you, we got really crappy ones there.. and also swimming shoes, some areas are rough there..
Be aware of the driving, you drive on the other side of the road.. but you get used to it..
We always splurged on dinner, you get screwed on the prices, so we picked the best spots, mainly on the water...

HAVE FUN!!!