marcell

Hi all

Like many, we'd like to escape the christmas blues by spending 10 warm days in Florida. We're fortunate this year that money will not be the limiting factor (although there is always a limit, of course). I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions, given the following conditions:

1. condo / cottage with two bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen (we're two adults and a 2 year old child). Can be part of a resort.

2. at or near a nice, sandy beach

3. quiet, but still in proximity of activities other than just the beach that would excite a 2 year old. (I'd personally love my private island with nothing but a beach, but a 2 year old gets bored very quickly).

What kinds of suggestions would you have if you would not have to think about $? Also, if you think there are options other than Florida, I'd love to hear them too, just as long as it is not further away than a 5-6 hour flight from Philadelphia.

After spending days on the web searching for a combination of these things, I'd very much appreciate any hints.

Thanks much
Marcell

NewbE

I would focus on the Gulf side, and keep in mind that anything north of Naples could be chilly at Christmas, at least for native Floridians--you might still find it plenty warm enough! Take a look at Naples; Sarasota and Lido Key/Longboat Key; and St. Pete Beach and surrounding beaches, such as Clearwater Beach, Passe-a-Grille, Indian Rocks and Indian Shores, Madeira Beach, Reddington Beach, Treasure Island, etc. The Sand Pearl on Clearwater Beach and the Don Cesar are great higher end resorts. If you stay near St. Pete Beach, Tampa will make a pleasant day trip, to the zoo or the new Children's Museum.

321go

I'll second NewbE's answer, especially the beaches within an easy drive to Tampa. Lovely beaches (though it might be cold at Christmas - depends on what you're accustomed to) and plenty to do that will entertain children.

Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa is excellent for children: http://www.lowryparkzoo.com/
Florida Aquarium might be another option: http://www.flaquarium.org/

Area attractions will be busy during the week between Christmas and New Years.

Ryan

Have you considered that you are at an opportune time in life in that you have a child to travel with and they are not yet in school?

If you go between Christmas and New Year's you are traveling with millions like me - parents with two kids in school. If you go starting say January 2nd, you are able to take advantage of much lower demand and far fewer people booking where you might like to go.

Florida is the obvious choice. I prefer the beaches on the Gulf coast.

Not sure about locations with kitchens, etc.

I might suggest one additional criteria, if this is something you're comfortable with, is a kids club or baby sitting service.

If comfortable with that, consider Club Med in Punta Cana, Cancun, or Ixtapa. No kitchens, but they do have family rooms with two bedrooms, fully staffed kids programs, and fun for the whole family. We have gone three times to Club Med in Ixtapa and my kids love it. Actually, my wife and I do as well as we can enjoy some time away from the kids and do things like read a book!

SAnParis2

The farther South you go the better weather you'll have & more opportunity to get in the water. That being said, I've never seen a 2 yr old get bored on the Beach playing in teh sand & water & it is usually a chore to remove them from that environment. I'd look @ vrbo.com - not sure what you expect to 'excite' a 2 yr old. You are at an age that is an absolute optimum time for ease of travel.