Couple ages 18 and 20 trying to get away. Need advice! Caribbean!
 

Hey there Fodors,

My boyfriend and I are looking to get away for 5-7 days during a week in January 2014. Im 18 and he will be 20 at the time of travel and we want to go somewhere fun and exciting that is hot and beachy and relaxing at the same time. We dont have a ton of money so the resort would most likely have to be all inclusive, we are also traveling from NYC. We have no idea where to go!!!!! Also, a casino would be much preferred by him but if you guys know of any places that fit this criteria with or without one PLEASE HELP! LOL. Any suggestions would help so much!

Thanks guys!

The only island that I know that has a full price range of all-inclusive resorts is the Dominican Republic. There are quite a few casinos, too. One thing to know is that since you are under 25, you will have difficulty renting a car. Nassau has all-inclusive resorts with casinos but they are fairly expensive and in January the weather might be cool. San Juan could be another option. Puerto Rico is a US territory...so you don't need a passport...

The most budget friendly AI destinations will be Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. With Mexico being the least expensive and offering the most in accomendations and things to see/do off the resort. However, Janaury is considered high season, so prices will be more that some other times of the year. If you can go the first week of December instead, you will save tons of money.

Be advised that casinos in the Caribbean are nothing like in the US especially Las Vegas. I would not make that a deciding factor on local. Puerto Rico does not have AI hotels. Food is drink is fairly expensive especially in the resorts. Yes, the Bahamas will be way too cool in Janaury to enjoy.

if you tell us your actual hotel budget we can be much more helpful.
cancun is a cheap flt from nyc & the area south of it known as maya riviera has loads of ai's. find info at locogringo.com
another option is aruba. not many ai's but reasonably priced hotels on the beach in easy walking to plenty of food & gambling. best bet for Hot weather.

Cancun is your spot on a tight budget, and being that age.