KayaAndJon

Hello, my boyfriend and I (and possibly another couple) are in our late 20s/early 30s, and we are looking to take a 5-7 night All-Inclusive vacation in the Caribbean in November. I would love some suggestions as to which parts of the Caribbean would be our best bet, or even specific resort recommendations if possible.

I know hurricane season is not officially over until the end of November, but we really want to go away when it's cold here (NYC area), and before Christmas. Does anyone know if we should be okay weather-wise by mid-November? We would probably want to avoid the Thanksgiving crowds.

We are definitely looking for something on the beach, with a nice pool and a few restaurant/bar choices besides the (all-inclusive staple) buffet. We want somewhere relaxing, but also not a place that goes to sleep at night. We don't need a club, but some night-life, preferably without having to travel outside the resort, even though the option of doing that would also be nice. A casino would be a plus, and some attractions (whether it be a scenic town, some ruins or a rainforest) for a day trip or two.

We have been to Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic sort of recently so ideally we would like to try a new place. Our budget is probably $1,000-1,500 per person for everything.

I appreciate any help! Thanks! Kaya

qwovadis

almondresorts.com out of the storm belt...

mexico.bookit.com Secrets Maroma or Capri

www.riu.com property in Guanacaste visitcostarica.com

weather2travel.com variable but Nov can be wet...

Dec lots better... Happy Hunting,

KVR

My first thought is Playa del Carmen, MX. Look at the Royal Playa del Carmen and if not in your budget, their sister resort across the street, Grand Porto Real. Both are AI. The Royal is adult only. Both are a 5 minute walk to 5th Avenue for restaurants, shopping, bars and entertainment.

Plenty of things to see and do off property for day trips.

My other choice would be Cozumel. The small town of San Miguel has a square with great dining options that are priced right. Not as lively as Playa, but less expensive.

The first 2 weeks of November are a great time to go. The weather is usually fine and the prices and crowds are low. The only issue we've had is the pools tend to be cool, but the ocean temps are perfect.

bajangirl

November is usually pretty safe re hurricanes though it can still be a bit wet sometimes. Barbados has several AIs that fit your requirements - the Almond Resorts group one of which is in Holetown, one just outside of Speightstown and one in St Lawrence Gap - all places with other activities/nightlife. Plus there are frequent non stop flights from NYC. November is also shoulder season so rates tend to be cheaper.

You can find info/links to the Almond group here:

http://www.destinationcaribbean.net/...=0&parentid=19

including bookings, etc.

KayaAndJon

Thanks for the suggestions so far! I've been doing some research and checking out the suggestions, and when factoring in weather/price/quality for your money I've narrowed it down to Barbados and Riviera Maya, MX. I'm going to start another post to see if anyone has specific experience with any of the resorts I've picked, but here they are in case you've had experience with any... One of the things I forgot to mention is that I think I have a preference for more spread out resorts, with a number of 2-3 story buildings, instead of a large tower.

Barbados:
Almond Beach Village All Inclusive Resort
Almond Beach Club & Spa All Inclusive
Crystal Cove Hotel All Inclusive

Riviera Maya:
Valentin Imperial Maya
Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Gran Bahia Principe Tulum
Royal Suites Yucatan by Palladium
El Dorado Royale Spa Resort - Gourmet All Inclusive