Social Resort for Solo Female
 

Let me start by saying I've lurked here for a few weeks but have a slightly different variation on the "where to go" posts that I've read.

I have two weeks to spend in the Caribbean in April (somewhat last minute) but it will be solo. I frequently travel solo to the Caribbean for R&R. I have no problems during the day finding activities to do but don't like to go off-resort at night for safety reasons. After 4-5 days/nights of solo travel, I'm ready to go home because there's only so many books to read in the evenings.

But, with two weeks, I'm looking for a resort with a social vibe. I'm not looking for a hook-up spot but a respectable, social place where I can stay up until 11 pm with company to talk to instead of curled up alone with a book. Any recommendations?

Location isn't relevant... so long as it's warm enough for the beach/pool in mid/late April. I've been to Turks and Caicos, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Aruba, Anguilla, Bahamas, and other spots. I don't mind a repeat but would prefer an island that has some off-resort excursions (hiking or water sports). I get sea-sick so no cruises. I'm mid-40s and my budget is US$500-800/night.

While I'm not cross-posting to the CA forum, I'd consider a Belize or Costa Rica resort recommendation if anyone has one.

How about Mexico? Would you consider that?

I vacation solo in Puerto Vallarta twice a year. I just rent an apartment or condo (never stayed at a "resort").

I go out every evening around town... to plays, live music, street parties, gallery openings, book readings/signings, like that.

During the day is R&R around the pool or at the beach, walking around town, Zumba classes, and so on.

Thanks. I thought about Mexico. I've been once before but admit I'm hesitant to travel there in the current political environment (I'm American and I'm even frustrated with my country right now), plus concerns about safety generally. Maybe I'm wrong and welcome comments on Mexico as well. One the point of a condo or private rental, it isn't what I'm looking for. I'd prefer a full-service, self-contained place (maybe not the right word but I hope you understand).

Look into Club Med properties, they were made to socialize (and not in a hook up couple kind of way)

Dinner tables are shared, so guests talk to each other. Activities throughout the day so guests mingle with each other.

All included (and French company so food is always good)

They usually have water sports, trips, shows, activities. You will mingle with foreigners too

Rooms usually are a little more basic, but it's because it's about feeling like a "club" more. They are comfortable and some have TVs, but the resorts are fun!

Quite a few islands have them. Most are adult only, a few allow children.

<<I'm hesitant to travel there in the current political environment (I'm American and I'm even frustrated with my country right now), plus concerns about safety generally.>>

I can only speak to my own experiences, which is obviously not ALL of Mexico. I go to Puerto Vallarta regularly (twice a year since the early 90's) as a single female. There is no situation there like you refer to in your words above. Your concerns simply do not apply, at least nothing I have never encountered there.

I've also been a couple places on the Baja (La Paz and Cabo) but I prefer PV.

I'm sorry I can't help to recommend a self-container, full-service resort with a social vibe. My social life in PV happens all around town, not by staying only on a resort property.

For a Caribbean island my favorite place I've been is Negril Jamaica. But I'm not sure you would be comfortable there solo, although I was. And I don't know about the All Inclusive resort situation. Again I just stay independently and socialize out and about.

Suze, to each their own I guess. I need to do what I need to feel comfortable. Thanks for the recommendations on Negril.

Blamona, thanks. This was exactly what I was looking for. I had completely forgotten about the Club Med resorts. Thanks!

OK this is out in left field, but would you enjoy a women's retreat? This is a group here in Seattle that I am familiar with:
http://www.fitandflygirl.com/

Suze, that looks amazing and exactly what I'm looking for. While it's too late for this spring, I'm definitely checking out some of their other trips. Thanks!

You're most welcome. I'm on their mailing list because one of my dance teachers is one of their guest fitness instructors (tango and polo in Buenos Aires anyone?).

When an email from them popped up I thought of your post. Not exactly what you asked about but seemed to fit your overall desires from what you were looking for... and then some!

Get yourself on their email list (they don't bombard you with too much).