I'm mid 50's female (who will be traveling alone) looking for a week long vacation that is structured enough to help me jump start weight loss and getting back in shape. I'm drawn to beach and ocean, but need some ideas. And I'd like to go somewhere outside the continental US... HELP!!!

What type of activities do you enjoy? Are you a hiker, biker, yoga practicioner or a blend? What is your budget and when do you want to travel

Sojourn vacations is offering a terrific trip this summer which involves kayaking, hiking and biking. It looks absolutely terrific!
http://www.gosojourn.com/quebec-bike...-bike-tour.php

Have a great time whatever you choose.

How about? www.riocaliente.com
you'd fly into Guadalaraja. Oh, it's not on the ocean, rather inland.

Here's a yoga retreat near Sayulita. You'd fly into Puerto Vallarta: www.haramararetreat.com

I've also made my own 'fitness vacation' in Hawaii. In Waikiki there are lots of classes for aerobics and Zumba around town you can take on a drop-in basis. And I eat healthy food and spend time walking long distances and at the beach. Have a facial at a spa. But you've got to structure that one yourself.

Tucson has destination spas with fitness programs. Canyon Ranch comes to mind immediately. CR is well regarded, and I expect you will find prices are robust.

Tucson has excellent hiking and outdoor activities.

Southern California has Marriott Laguna Cliffs or Newport Beach. You'll have to inquire about spa weeks. Both are fantastic hotels and locations.

Canyon Ranch was amazing - I mean amazing. I can see how people go back every single year. I have never felt more rested, more at peace and more healthy than I did while there. Seriously.

My friend has done this, somewhere in Mexico, but of course, I can't remember the name of the place. I'll find out for you.

Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Mexico

One thing that I enjoyed about Canyon Ranch -- as opposed to go to the Palm Desert Marriott which has an amazing spa - is that everyone there is there for a "spa/health/vacation" unlike at the PDM - where you will have a large variety of folks there for different reasons. I enjoyed the lack of children as well (and am a very child centered person but was there 100% for me) so if possible I would go to a resort that has a sole focus of health.

sf7307~ Maybe it was Rio Caliente? It's been around forever and is well-respected.

This poster specifically said she'd like to go outside the US.

I've been dying to try bikini bootcamp at Amansala in Tulum.

http://www.amansala.com/

I really don't remember, but I sent her an email.

Oops, should have looked at my gmail first. Her reply:

"Rancho la Puerta in Mexico just south of San Diego. I want to go again in the fall – want to come?"

Thanks for all your help folks! I'm looking into your suggestions. My fitness level is currently a big fat ZERO. I'm really not that overweight, but have never exercised (never had to, always looked good until the last year or two) - so know nothing about any type of workout. My biggest fear would be getting in with a group of people who are younger, already fit, and know what they're doing!ha