Kerr

Hi, We were fortunate enough to win an all inclusive trip to Tampico Mexico for a family of four (which we are with children 6 & 1 1/2). <BR><BR>After researching it on the internet we found that when you got off the resort property it was pretty much a 3rd world atmosphere. <BR><BR>We need some help. The travel company is incredibly flexible and is allowing us to pretty much pick any packages available. <BR><BR>We are looking for an island for next Jan/feb 2003 (but have to book in the next month). We need it to be safe (as we will have our children with us) and would prefer it to be a nice island - not run down or areas where you are afraid to go out at dark. <BR><BR>We're not big on snorkeling, but looking for great white beaches with clear water, nite-life not required - but at least a little action or a casino or two for my husband , and an island that is child friendly. <BR><BR>We're planning on a 14 day trip so we also need things to do too. Aruba has been our first choice all along, but we've also looked at St. Lucia, Antigua and the Virgin Islands (however have yet to see them in any of the tour package books). <BR><BR>We appreciate any insight anyone has to offer for our first time carribean dream vacation that we would never have allowed ourselves to take! <BR><BR>Thanks!

Denise

Wow! I am so jealous that you won a trip! Congrats!<BR>I think Turks and Caicos would be something to consider for you and your family. They have a great family resort there, Beaches, which is all inclusive. They have awesome pools and programs for kids, and a children's center that can make any ages happy.<BR>Turks and Caicos has the most beautiful beach ever. Clean, clear, calm turqoise water....The island is very safe. Not a lot of nightlife, but there is a casino at a resort not too far from Beaches, the Allegro.<BR>We are actually going there for the first time in July (Allegro). I have done so much research about all of the resorts, and because we are not bringing children, we opted for the Allegro. They also have a children's center but not as awesome as Beaches.<BR>Well, good luck and let us know what you decide!<BR>Also, there are really fun excursions at T&C, where you can go snorkling, looking for shells, and keep your eyes open for Jojo...he is the island dolphin that enjoys swimming around the snorkling boats...very friendly and I have read about tourists going for a swim with him.<BR>Take care!<BR>Denise

Randy

"Turks and Caicos has the most beautiful beach ever. Clean, clear, calm turqoise water....The island is very safe".<BR><BR>Clarification here: T&C is a group of 30 islands, 8 of which are inhabited.<BR>So there is no single beach or island when discussing the T&C's. Much like the Bahamas.

Connie

I'm certain Denise was referring to Providenciales, or Provo for short. Specifically Grace Bay, since she mentioned Beaches Turks and Caicos and the Allegro.

Denise

Thanks for the clarification, Connie. That is EXACTLY what I meant.<BR>PROVO in T&C, has beautiful beaches, as I am sure the other MANY islands do.<BR>There....<BR>Denise