My family (husband and 3 kids, ages 18, 13 and 9) are trying to plan an island vacation for February. I am looking for an island that is warm in Feb., not overly touristy, but with things to do for our very quickly bored and hard to handle 9 yr. old son. I am interested in culture also. How warm is Cozemel or Cancun in Feb.? What about Tortola? Not much to do there? I think maybe a place with other people (kids) for my kids to connect with would be great, so maybe a resort on the beach rather than a secluded villa. Nice beach a must. Ideas?

Did you check out Turks and Caicos. I'm assuming you are talking about Feb. vacation week, so many places will have lots of kids.

I have a hard to handle 12 yr. old son, so I know where youy are coming from.

Definitely rent a condo.

We travel to the Caribbean a lot, and this is an easy choice. Go to Beaches Resort in Turks and Caicos. Great beach, possibly the best in the islands, as well as lots and lots for the kids to do at the resort. It will be comfortably warm there in Feb., with many other kids at the resort for them to connect with. The staff plans activities for various age groups, and will get them quickly involved. We saw our 14-year old pretty much only for breakfast and dinner each evening, and he spent the rest of the time with his new-found friends. At the same time, you and your husband will, I am sure enjoy yourselves as well. There are a number of different restaurants, including buffets, so your children will be able to get exactly what they want. There is also a nice "adults only" restaurant that you should try one night. I'd skip Tortola. Nice place for you and the hubby, but little for the kids to do.

Thanks for your recommendations on Turks and Caicos. Beaches Resort has no availability at this point, unfortunately. Anyone with any other recommendations there (resort with activities?)

Still wonder about Mexican coast, places like Cozemel or Cancun or Playa del Carmen. My kids were adopted from Colombia so Latin American culture would be a plus.
Sue

I would recommend the Iberostar resorts in Playa del Carmen. It is not as commercialized as Cancun. The beaches in PDC are fantastic. You can read some reviews on TripAdvisor.com. Good luck with your vacation planning.

I agree with the Iberostar suggestion. I was there in November and it was fantastic

needanisland,
Look into Costa Rica, would be a better cultural experience than Cozumel or Cancun. Kids would love the zip lines through the rainforests and the beaches as well as much more Costa Rica has to offer. Just a thought.

Regarding Playa del Carmen, is it considered safe to explore round? Cultural areas, etc.?

Still wondering about my last question about safety, and such, but good news, we have found availability in Playa del Carmen at one of the Iberostar resorts. Can't wait to go. If any of you know the MUST SEE things there, I'd be happy to hear about them!

Thanks for all the suggestions!

Sue