I have a little over $12K to spend on a preferably tropical vacation for 6 adults and 3 kids under 5 for Feb 2022...looking for a mix of beach and adventure...water parks for the kids..open to all inclusive or air bnb...where did you go? Thanks!

Tres Rios Riviera Maya

Jenna Plouffe
You can probably do Cuba for that price. Amazing beaches and people, but the food is just awful.
Personally, I prefer Jamaica the most.

I don’t know if it would fit in the budget but we had a blast at the Grand at Moon Palace in Cancun. You have access to all Palace resorts in that area and they have a water park plus indoor play areas our kids loved when it was too hot midday. The food was great. There’s golf and awesome kid friendly activities.

Tasha I’ve stayed at moon palace before and loved it! It’s on our list, thanks!

The new “grand” side is incredible!!

Tasha I stayed at Sun Palace I love palace resorts!

My coworkers went to a wedding in January at Moon palace, they said it was amazing!

If you’re wanting to increase that budget at all Hotel Xcaret is phenomenal. Excursions are included, great place for kids and adults! There’s so much to do!

Iberostar Montego bay

Rajan not for his budget. He'd need 2 rooms

Janet I googled the Rose Hall suites for this Dec it was $4300 for 1 room with 2 adults & 2 kids. Might be doable

Rajan Dec pricing isn't Feb pricing. He's 6 adults and 3 kids as well

Janet well that's something the OP can decide on. I was recommending a hotel/Jamaica

Rajan and it's a great hotel! We are Club members

Janet The best hotel/food, Its the only place I like to go back to again & again.

You might be shocked at pricing... Travel really seems to be quite high for the coming high season thanks to all the cancelled trips and the algorithms used for pricing. ....

Janet what do you mean algorithms?

Mary pricing is set by calculations made by various avenues of demand. Let’s say if a bunch of people are searching certain dates, prices will naturally increase.

Mary travel pricing is based on supply and demand. Internet searches are a driving factor in the complex algorithms now used. As more people dream of travel and rebooking cancelled trips, every search, app use and login to a website goes into those algorithms... The result is huge demand (based on the above) and very little supply (many destinations and properties/resorts are still closed partially or fully)... It's a perfect storm for travel pricing increases.

A cruise! Royal Caribbean preferably. Something for everyone and free kids club!

Barbara id be careful investing money into cruise company’s right now lol

Andrij yeh that’s true. I love cruising but I forgot we’re living in a different time right now. Cruising is not a good idea for a while

Check out resorts that charge only airfare for the children. Many offer children stay free.

Thailand in the south.

I second this. Went last year, it was amazing.

My mom and I had a great time at Hotel Riu Tequila at Playa del Carmen Mexico a few years back. The food was fantasic and great beach. We booked it on selloffvacations for $1,075 each.

Mexico.
Xplor adventure park is amazing for all ages!
Their is a hotel next to a zoo that is fun, you can take the bus safely into town. Beaches are amazing.

Barcelo Mayan Riviera

Generally the AI’s in the Dominican offer good value and most have kid parks,probably best to stay away from cruises at this time.

Coconut Bay in St Lucia. Amazing for kids and grown ups too!

So highly recommend this spot! My family travels together yearly with our small kids and this spot has been our fav! If it wasn't for covid we would be back there this January.

MichelleDepending on the resort and tour operator they offer kids stay free option... but if your planning to do this trip on February 2022, things maybe different by then....

The Grand Moon Palace in Cancun .. Amazing food, water park, can visit other resorts.... I’m a member it’s great there

Lisawyk I’ve been! It’s on the short list

Hawaii

Barcelo Bavaro Beach Punta Cana, Great Beach, Great Hotel and two Waterparks for the kiddies. We loved it.

NOosara Costa Rica!

I think you'll be surprised at whats available for that budget during high season. Cuba might be your only option.

Cuba! Best bang for your buck! Stay away from resorts older than 10 years. Stay with 4.5 and 5 star resorts.

Visit gold coast Australia, its tropical, water parks , rides, beautiful beaches and its high standard living n place to visit. N food is great

Sohail Australia is closed to tourism

Janet but ur going there in 2022

If you go to Cuba, bring your own food! LOL!!

Maria I suggest that you bring food, medication etc for the Cuban people. Tourists do just fine in comparison.

Did that!

Did that!! I also left many things.

And sauce. The food there is tasteless.

I love Cuban food. So fresh, and unique.

I would say Thailand
But with your budget for 6 adults and 3 oids, price for plane tickets for Thailand, regular price around 1200$-1300$ per person (often on sale between 700$-800$) this will take most of your budget.

Eric plus one week is not enough

Eric
Jeffrey Quarantine rules in Thailand have not been established/defined yet. In 2022, I wish this will no longer be an issue.

Eric you are right. I missed the date. I'm trying to get there soon

We really enjoyed Xcaret in Mexico. We stayed at the resort attached to the park and got the pass for the week. Fun shows, swimming in the underground river, we swam with the dolphins (not cheap but we loved it for a once in a lifetime).

We love Barbados

Costa Rica. Absolutely best vacation, blew the doors off Mexico, Jamaica and Cuba. I highly recommend, beautiful country and people.

Cindy I’ve been to Costa Rica, it’s on the short list...any specific resort? I rented a house with friends the last time I went. Not sure it’s safe to do so with kids.

Michelle I didn't mention where I stayed because I wasn't certain it was suitable for children. We stayed at the Buddha House in Jaco which is a Hotel/Hostel. Perfect for adults. 5 minute walk to the beach. Very affordable. Definitely worth looking into. We also spent time in San Jose where my cousin lives. hostelbuddhahouse.com
HOSTELBUDDHAHOUSE.COM
Jaco Hostel Costa Rica | Buddha House Boutique Hostel

We chose a "hotel" room private bathroom etc. But had the facilities to store food in fridge and prepare our own lunches. Breakfast was included (very good) and wander out in the evening for dinner. We were never disappointed. Many different kinds of restaurants to choose from and affordable delicious meals.

I agree with Cindy, if you want a south vacay, Costa Rica for sure!!!! I have never had such an amazing trip!

agree with Costa Rica!

Cindy 100% costa rica

Agreed. You can definitely find an affordable place in a safe area or gated community.

Based on your budget you are likely looking at Cuba but renting a villa in Mexico would also be option

Dubai!!! Great time of year to go and has something for everyone. I just got back.

Sarah 9 people for under 10k is not realistic in Dubai

Yea thats true it be tough. The flights were the most expensive but we did get an amazing 4 star hotel for 32$ a night !

Rent a condo on vrbo. Better value. I suggest Barbados or Costa
Rica

vrbo Costa Rica

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Costa rica

You could rent a villa with pool in DR in gated community...daily shuttles to beaches close by

Most likely renting a villa will bring the cost in - and then you can cook to help with the cost. Find something walking distance to beach and groceries (or on a good bus route) to avoid renting a car or taking taxis. So then you just have to find where the best airfares from the your city are - and where they are still flying (Canadian airlines aren't showing flights for lots of destinations at the moment)

I recommend tripcentral - click on Classic Grid and you can see price comparisons and destinations all on one page. Hopefully you can find something in your budget range
https://www.tripcentral.ca
TRIPCENTRAL.CA
tripcentral.ca ™ - Vacations and Cruises for Canadians

travelzoo has lots of choices

F

If you have that money now invest it for one year at the bank, and it will grow to 12 T. I would say Cuba might be a choice for you. Also choose a good travel agent who’s been there.

Belize! No water parks where I've stayed (not sure what else is out there though!) but incredible mix of beach, jungle, adventure...simply the best

Mexico! So many fabulous airbnb in and around playa and tulum. You have cenote, Xelha, xcaret , now the new Junjala at Vidanta. Food is excellent in local restaurants , beaches good and you should be able to do it well
Under 10 k. Message me if you like any ideas, I’ve travelled all over Caribbean/south with kids . Family of 5 . We do it for about 5k and don’t scrimp

Jasmine where do you stay for 5 ppl for 5k??? I suck at looking for deals...

GiGi Hurst i am a single mother with 3 kids, and i am not rich, nor have money from any other source besides my own income and gov baby money. I have brought my kids all over including mexico multiple times, jamaica multiple times, panama, costa rica, thailand, all through usa, and more. The secret is let the flight deals decide when and where you go. Use airbnb it or agota for houses and hotels. Travel does not have to be as expensive as its put out there. Besides, even a budgeted trip is still a trip where great memories are made

GiGi Hurst I never do package deals --make your own and don't go All Inclusive. I use google flights for tracking destinations (YouTube has lots of tutorials on how to use google flights) . I usually fly air transit, swoop or interjet from T.O. Right now for example, you can fly from T.O to Cancun, return for about $350 a person, any month this winter ! I try to keep flights under 400 pp by searching months before you intend to travel. I use expedia or airbnb for hotels or rentals. In Playa del Carmen or Tulum you should be able to find a beautiful rental for the week for as little as $80 a night (when you search on expedia, get it to filter by price and then put in your other parameters like pool, rating etc and you will get the hits that match your parameters starting with the cheapest find). We often do groceries once in town, and eat out for dinners and treats. I aim to spend about $2000 on flights, 1200 on hotel for week, and then remainder on things like food, taxis, park admission, shopping. I do this year after year for a family of 5 and we travel March break typically.

Here's an example of an apart-hotel in Tulum, week of march break, deluxe apartment at 57.00 a night ...pair that with the swoop flights right now, and that's one super affordable holiday! These aren't really covid prices either, just typical of what you can find digging around well in advance of high season https://www.expedia.com/Tulum-Hotels-Etnica-Tulum-Residences.h49288994.Hotel-Information?chkin=2021-03-13&chkout=2021-03-20&destType=MARKET&destination=Tulum%2C%20Quintana%20Roo%2C%20Mexico&pwa_ts=1603140310491&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&regionId=553248632557170387&rfrr=HSR&rm1=a2&selectedRatePlan=270247338&selectedRoomType=229500463&semdtl=&sort=PRICE_LOW_TO_HIGH&top_cur=USD&top_dp=49&useRewards=false&x_pwa=1
EXPEDIA.COM
Etnica Tulum Residences: 2020 Room Prices , Deals & Reviews | expedia

I would say a cruise but some are not comfortable with that yet. But they have been by far our favourite vacations. Also really like Jamaica. It’s clean and you can drink the water so you won’t have to worry about getting sick like elsewhere. However, in my lifetime
I have been to practically every Caribbean island. Pm me if you have any questions.

Kimgrilli fav place in Jamaica ?

Really like ocho Rios.
And for couples sandals in whitehouse was the best. (I think they changed the name)

Ocho Rios is really nice.

Sounds like Negril would fit the bill!

Costa rica. Split time between jungle and beach. Lots for everyone to do

Dana costa rica is more expensive then they say...

Kaylee Alex Irvine not really. Been there twice. It is def possible on a budget.

Dana i was shocked how expensive food was specifically.

Kaylee Alex Irvine were you in a major city? It wasnt as cheap as some places, but it's also not third world

I go every year to Mexico ( Cancun area) for 10 to 12 days. 2 adults 2 kids. We spend no more than 4K with a car included. We buy our tickets for around 500 bucks each.( not a direct flight) We rent with airbnb. ( beach front) we cook our meals. Last January we spent 40 days in Brazil. We must go where the Canadian $ is stronger. Well, if you're in a budget like me. This year we're not going to Mexico but I wish you and your family a great trip.
Buy the way, Xel ha is a great water park in Cancun.

Gigi Oliveira thanks!

Michelle if you go to Cancun I recommend a day trip to Isla Mujeres. Ferry ride is easy with lots to do on the island.

Which beach do you like to rent on?

GiGi Hurst there are several condos on Playa Delfines. I also rented in Puerto Morelos and in Sisal ( fishing village)

Sisal is very small and simple. From there you can visit Merida ( drive). The cities of Progresso, Sisal and Celestun are completely different from the Cancun area.

Gigi
Celestun ( Golf of Mexico) is another city with great beach and affordable. This is REAL Mexico, completely different from Cancun area. If you're a fan of all inclusive this is not for you

Turks and Caicos - look up www.islandclubturks.com! The island is a little expensive food wise but flights and accommodation can be very affordable. You can book a 4 hour snorkel adventure, all inclusive drinks and food for $100 adults, $50 children. Lots of other excursion offers! Feel free to dm me if you have any questions, I live there
ISLANDCLUBTURKS.COM
Island Club Turks – Villas in Providenciales

Megan Harper thanks!

Where are you finding affordable accommodations in Turks ? Provo prices are nuts ...food costs are insanely high ...mind you it is one of the most beautiful places on earth!

Jasmine I manage a 24 unit condo complex right in Grace Bay, depending on the season rates can go anywhere from $225/night to $450/night USD(excluding Christmas) for a 2 bdr/ 2 floor condo with a fully operational kitchen. There’s some other condo complexes or airbnb’s that are similar pricing. You can rent a car for about $50 a day, but you don’t necessarily need one if you’re staying in Grace Bay. The grocery stores are quite expensive, the closer to the airport you go the cheaper they get. I always recommend eating two meals at home/ one out so you can experience the local food as well.

Megan Harper can I ask what your rental is called??

Www.islandclubturks.com
ISLANDCLUBTURKS.COM
Island Club Turks – Villas in Providenciales

Island Club Turks Providenciales Turks and Caicos. Breathtaking views, wonderful people . Best holiday ever. Make sure you visit Provo Ponies too, so much fun !

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. We love Sosua for the calm waters, we like to snorkel. We purchased property but, in the past stayed at both airbnbs and an All inclusive resort called Casa Marina. It has its own beach, access to Playa Alicia and only a 15 min walk from to Playa Sosua. If you are planning only a short trip (a week or 2) this resort is a good no thought Vacay with your accommodations, food, drink etc included. The area is a short taxi drive to a lot of fun spots to check out like Mount Isabella, Fricolandia (I haven't been yet but, saw some videos on youtube), Castillo Mondo King, Rugama etc (they all have a Facebook page. Some have IG too). You can see lots of photos I've taken of our trips on my ig @julesdrdream. When you get bored of the food or activities on the resort you have easy access to the town. There are lots of local spots like Cheers etc in town were you can chat with an expat or go souvenir shopping.

100% nassau bahamas, at the atlantis on paradise island. Waterpark included.

Asad have their prices reduced? I looked at it last year and 3 of us were $8k for a week.

Asad she would need to double her budget for that.

Costa Rica. And if you would do BB check out Ivan’s house

I’d go to Bahamas and stay at Atlantis if I had that budget. There’s also beaches resorts, they have a lot of locations all over the Caribbean. They have tons of all inclusive activities. (including scuba diving) literally everything they offer is included in your cost to stay.

I don't think 12k would cover 9 ppl at Atlantis, but you could prob airbnb on Paradise island then day pass at resort

Jasmine if they just have two rooms then the kids would be included if they are under 12. It may be manageable if they get a family suite.

Charlene that's true ...but now I am thinking, 3 kids under 5 don't need Atlantis! ha! Kiddie pool would do

Jasmine true enough, lol.

We stayed at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island. Access to the amenities at Atlantis is included. Comfort Suites also includes free wifi and breakfast...Atlantis does not. The kids loved the activities and waterpark at Atlantis.

Kwie that’s good to know. I bet it’s a lot cheaper than actually staying at Atlantis.

Charlene definitely! we stayed twice at Atlantis then found out about Comfort Suites for our 3rd trip

Punta Cana!! Stay at the Bhaia Principe - Fantasia resort. Great for kids,

Thailand. Flights are a bit pricy, but keep your eye out, we have had some good deals. Once there everything is very inexpensive. We stayed in a nice beach hut for 9 days for under $400 Canadian.

I never saw a Waterpark though. The flight from Bankok to koh panang was under $100 Canadian.

Isla Mujeres Mexico
for rentals check out pearlrealtyisla.com
or email chris@ladiosa if you have any questions! The island is gorgeous
PEARLREALTYISLA.COM
Pearl Realty Isla | Luxury Sales, Rentals, Management

Sunscape Curacao

I'd avoid all-inclusive resorts and stay in an airbnb. You can rent a villa in many countries for $100 - 150 per night. You don't pay by the head. Airfare will be your biggest expense. Food and drink in markets are cheaper than restaurants and become part of the fun. I have even paid for a local person to cook an authentic meal. Adventure is where you find it and depends on your interests.
For tropical consider the Caribbean or Mexico. I'd also consider the Algarve in Portugal or southern Spain which aren't exactly tropical, but are still warm.

This! It’s hard to convince ppl to go off resort in Mexico . The reality is amazing dining, endless rental opportunities in beautiful properties , local vibe and just a better vacation IMO ... not to mention you save thousands!!!

Jasmine There are many safe places to go in Mexico.

Roy me too. I also avoid all inclusive resorts. I love airbnb you can get great accommodations for much less $.

Hard rock Mayan Riviera
This place is beautiful

Tulemar Resort, Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Fabulous! Tulemarresort.com
TULEMARRESORT.COM
Tulemar Resort Costa Rica | Welcome to Tulemar Resort

Dominican, Punta Cana Royalton Bavaro Resort

Your money would go a long way in Nicaragua...Ometepe especially. Amazing place to vacation!

I can recommend my best friend's luxury oceanfront home in hawaii which could easily fit you all. Checks all your boxes. feel free to pm if you'd like a link.

AmyKeola Asam pm me please too

Bahamas, Atlantis. Hands down.

Costa Rica

we love Baravo Resort in Punta Cana- food good- niice clean beach- and look for the kids eat free week.. and I think 12$ will be enough.. we've been going every yr for the last 3 yrs and last Feb I paid almost 4k for 2 aldults- 2 kids 10-8yrs

Feb 2022 lol that's some pre planning

Gary just getting a feel for whats out there...time flies and it’ll be here before you know it

Michelle not likely. It's over a year away lol. The world could be over then

Mexico. The grand moon palace...
About 1000/adult (member pricing) The have waterpark and such. Awesome resourt and cheap enough you can do what ever you want and have cash left over

Jacob I’ve been to Moon Palace...it’s at the top of our short list, thanks!

Michelle I have member pricing if you want, should be reasonable. And places like swoop are cheap for flights

Jacob might take you up on that! Thanks so much!

Jamaica
a bit higher in price than Cuba, the Dominican or Mexico but worth every $. You can stay at an airbnb. Have fun!

Anastasi yeah and get murdered or harrased to buy shit

Gary never happened to me, that's quite an overgeneralization. People are nice, kind and chill - it was very safe even at night in both in Montego Bay and Negril when I went, and that's considering they had a state of government emergency in 2018

Anastasi and you never got asked to buy things or asked for $?
Ever consider you just got lucky or unnoticed

Gary some did, but if I wasn't interested, I know how to decline firmly but politely

Anastasi Cuba , Dominican or Mexico. You sound like every Canadian or American going on a vacation.
Some people just got no idea what traveling really is

Gary I've been travelling for over 20 years, thank you for your assumption though.

Gary the OP asked for a family vacation, not backpacking through Patagonia.

Anastasi everyday

Anastasi yes you've been travelling to Cuba, Mexico and Dominican..
So has my parents and every other parent I know

Anastasi you mean you've been a few places over the last twenty years lol

Gary yes, quite a few - not just the Caribbean.

Anastasi expect to tip a person that just walks by u

I been to Jamaica, Greece, Croatia , Portugal, London, Amsterdam, Philippines, Scotland, Ireland and I live in japan..
I highly suggest Greece. Food, it's safe and many hidden paradise

Gary I’ve been to Greece and it’s beautiful unfortunately not in our budget right now and the flight times might be a little long for the little ones.