Where to go
 

Hi. My family and I would like to go to a nice beach location in Feb / March 2009. Does anyone have any recommendations? We have been thinking of the Dominican Republic because they offer all inclusive. Which would be an advantage. We have not booked this type of holiday before can anyone recommend how I should book it, perhaps a website or a travel agent. We have 2 children, ages 9 and 6 so a kids club would be good. When is the cheapest time to go and could anyone recommend a resort? I have been looking at Punta Cana. Lots of questions I know but I am not sure where to start. All help appreicated. Thanks

If you are looking at Punta Cana, The Iberostars are nice resorts.
There is more to do outside the resorts in Mexico however. The Iberostars in Mexico's Riviera Maya are wonderful and have kids clubs.

Look at hotels that boost "Family Friendly" or words similar that advertise "kids camps or kids clubs". Stick with a chain like Iberostar or Pallium or Barcelo and go to Trip Advisor and read the reviews from people who have just returned for accurate information. The cheapest time to go is usually from April 15 to December 15. Feb/March is usually considered high season.

I have also been looking at cancun as I have concerns about the safety issue in the Domincan Republic

May I suggest you look at hotels south of cancun, instead of cancun, on the Riviera Maya. The beaches in Cancun have been terribly erroded. You will see many of the same chains you see in Punta Cana. The beach in Punta Cana is good. As far as safety is concerned, I will say this: In Punta Cana either stay in the hotel complex or if you venture out, do it with a group with a guide. I have been to Punta Cana 4 times and have never had a problem, but we don't leave the hotel on our own. Most islands offer some all-inclusive hotels, so don't let that stop you from looking at other islands. Aruba has four all-inclusives and is generally considered a safe island for tourists.