Once again, I am hoping that you will come through with the great suggestions that you always do! My husband and I and 15 and 19 yo have the week of Dec 28-Jan 6 off and are looking for someplace where we can just relax and where the temperature is warm.
Both the boys are studying Spanish and would love to practice the language; I had suggested Mexico but my husband would prefer to stay in the US (doesn't want to deal with passports etc. (PR a possibility)We have been on cruises and they don't want to do this at this time-just want to "lay around and relax"- school, especially college, has been tough this year; and they want a break.
It HAS been a tough year, illness and deaths in family, so if you can suggest a vacation, that doesn't cost a fortune, where we can relax and feel like a less stressed family again, I would be so grateful. Thanks in advance. pat

I don't know what you consider a fortune but the most relaxing, warm place I've ever been within the US is the Big Island of Hawaii. Don't stay in Kailua-Kona, don't stay at an expensive resort hotel. Rent a house in south Kona or Kapoho and just chill. (Plus with a kitchen you don't have eat every meal out)
I have a stressful job and it usually takes me a couple of days after arrival in Hawaii to finally, really relax. My DH says he watches me and he can tell when it happens. And then all I do some days is sit and read a book and look at the ocean.
All that being said, the dates you have are a very busy time in the islands and finding a rental house or any accommodations may be difficult.

Here are some websites to check—

http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/accomg.htm

http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/accomg.htm

http://www.hpvacationrentals.com/

http://www.renthawaiihome.com/

Good luck finding your special place!

Puerto Rico is a wonderful destination.
I would really get out and explore.
Your boys could use their Spanish.
I'm very sorry about the rough year you have had. I hope you have a much brighter 2008.

Where do you live? If getting to Hawaii isn't incredibly difficult, it would be a great choice. There's just no better place to relax. In fact, you'll start relaxing the minute the warm air hits your face when the airplane door opens. It really doesn't matter which island you choose, although each one is very different from the others.

Thanks for your responses and kind words. We live near Philly so Hawaii is quite far altho I did start to look there after I typed this email to look at costs and availability; with the length of the airtime and time it does take to unwind, I'm not sure this is the best choice. What do you think? I am also looking at the Texas coast; we have never been there-Galveston, Padre Island? I know I am all over the place but everone is SO stressed, that this is pretty much up to me to choose and plan the trip as long as it is "warm and Laid back" thanks again, pat

How about Key West? From Philadelphia you can fly to Fort Lauderdale for $59 on Southwest. Rent a car there and drive down thru the keys. Best done on a weekday. A search of this board will provide lots of activities in Key West for all age groups and also places to stay.

Whatever you decide, don't delay. The warm places, and the flights, will be booking up for the holiday period.

Hmmm... well Mexico would have been my best and obvious recommendation, except you specifically said not there.

Hawaii is gorgeous, but not Spanish speaking, and a LONG way from Philly!

Are you sure Mexico's out?

I agree with Suze. I love the Keys but Mexico is going to be alot cheaper and while the Keys, generally has good weather in the winter, it can get chilly. Plus the drive from Lauderdale to the Keys can be a nightmare.

thanks again for responses. Suze (and others), I WAS looking at Mexico because i thought it met everone's "criteria" except DH, so i may just get info and try to talk him into it as the best choice.
Where would you suggest? I was originally thinking of the Mayan Riviera but am open to suggestions in terms of towns and hotels. thx

Galveston etc. would be way too cold at that time of year. And boring.

If I had two teen boys I'd take them to Costa Rica.