Need help with All-Inclusive - 1st time
 

Hi,
I've been reading some posts here but would appreciate some helps in narrowing down choices. Family of 4 (2 teen girls, 14 & 17), looking for a short relaxing vacation (5-7 days) this summer (end of July). Girls have been busy year-round so we thought maybe we can have a relaxing vacation and are leaning toward an AI somewhere in the Caribbeans (I heard Jamaica or DR are the most affordable?) or Cabos. Not to crazy about Mexico with all the issues there. Our budget is limited. I searched cheapcaribbean.com and found some packages around $1200 for that time frame in Jamaica. What can we expect in this price range? We are not picky. Girls will survive with pizzas and pasta. We've been on one of those carnival cruise lines and while they liked it, we prefer something more refined (not 5 stars).So something of a compromise will do.
As far as activities, mostly will be chilling by the pool and beach. But activities like kayak or parasailing would be fun. No night life is expected even some family entertainment at night would not be bad.
Which location and resorts will fit our criteria. I don't mind doing more research, but some help in the right direction is greatly appreciated.

Would you be interested in renting a villa that has a private pool or does it have to be a resort?

Mexico, Jamaica and the DR tend to have the best choices of AI options at the better prices. We've been to Mexico almost every year since 2000 and it's one of our favaotire destinations. There are no "issues" in the toursit areas and to me it's actually "safer" to walk off a resort in Mexico than in Jamaica or the DR. There is also plenty of things to see in do there. Look at the Playa del Carmen/Riveria Maya area. Tons of really nice AI's resorts there.

The Iberostars, Barcelos, RIU's, and Occidentials tend to get good reviews for family vacations.

It does not have to be a resort, but I don't want to have to spend time cooking and cleaning

Thanks KVR. We'll check out those AI establishments you mentioned.