Totally confused now-Re: Island Vacation HELP!

[J.Cooper]

I've been to that website... matter of fact I think I've been to just about every website regarding the Caribbean, Aruba, Mexico, etc. Probably why I'm so confused.

How did you decide on Aruba? Have you picked a place to stay?

Actually we've always wanted to go to Aruba. My friend just went and loved Aruba. She's one that is hard to please, and she said her family loved Aruba and wished they vacationed there sooner. She knew I always wanted to go and definitely recommends it. She stayed at the Holiday Inn Sunspree and even got a free upgrade to an oceanview room. I know it must be nice because she's a world traveler and normally does not like beach vacations. Her family said Aruba is waaay better than Mexico.

DH & I talked to a travel agent and got brochures on the Aruba/caribbean. I will probably book online. Seems to be a tad cheaper than using a travel agent. Still deciding on which hotel. We may stay at the Aruba Marriott Resort or Holiday Inn. Decisions, Decisions..... Oh and my friend doesn't recommend All Inclusive.

 

[Wishing on a star]

For a trip with my DH, and for leaving the country, I personally would prefer to do an all inclusive.

I prefer to have everything easily available... not trying to make my way around a foriegn country and strange culture everytime I needed something to eat. For this type of a trip, for me, the all inclusive is a plus.

No worrying about whether the food or drinks would make you sick.
No worrying about carrying cash and CONSTANTLY shelling out exhorbitant prices for every little thing. Being catered to, without having to always worry about the check. Get up, coffee and breakfast are right there, pre-paid... Whatever you want... No worrying about $12.00 for a scrambled egg or danish... Want a second or third frozen libation... there it is...

Of course, this is not best for all types of vacations. If you plan on spending very little time at your resort, this would not be the way to go.

But, for a getaway to a resort on a beach in a foriegn country. I would consider the all-inclusive as a real convenience and benefit.

 

[Mercy]

My husband and I love Mexico. Specifically the Riveria Maya region which is an hour south of the Cancun airport - from Peurto Morales to Tulum is the general area.

We love the Palladium resort - been there 3 times. I have also been to the Iberostar Tucan/Queztal. There is so much to do in Mexico, taxis are abundant and the price is great.

If you don't want kids around there are some adult only resorts - Secrets Excellence, Secrets Capri, Adventura Spa Palace, Royal Hideway - Riu Palaces also have few children although Rius are not adults only.

Depending on where in the country you are 2 places to look are Funjet or Apple Vacations.

I am at the point of looking for a place for our 15th wedding anniv. in Oct 2007. My husband wants to take a break from a beach vacation so I am looking at London/Paris or a cruise to see what islands we check out next.

Hey YachtClubWoman, and others who responded... Thanks for the information. I've been doing some research and have decided on the Riviera Maya region instead of Cancun. I just like the look of it better, so thanks for pointing me in that direction.

I have also decided (I think) on one of the Iberostar's. They look really great, and get pretty good reviews on TripAdivsor and other sites. My main decision right now is which Iberostar... Tucan, Lindo, Maya, etc. I'm leaning toward the Tucan. Any other suggestions will be helpful.