I know I'm killing you guys with all my questions, but I had my heart set on Cozumel this winter after considering the DR because I miss Mexico and it's supposed to be super-safe there, but all I read about is diving, diving and more diving - and I don't plan on doing any. Would it still be an enjoyable place to explore or can anyone recommend an alternate Mexico vacation in an area that's also considered just as safe? I'm more worried about my 13 yo and his father will probably freak when he hears where I want to take him as it already is.

Isla Mujeres. It's right across from Cancun and you can walk around it or rent a golf cart or bike to get around. It's pretty small and really colourful. Or Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Akumal, or Isla Holbox.

I was thinking about Isla Mujeres but I was leaning toward an all-inclusive since they're pretty reasonable after all things considered. I don't see any of these places having these kinds of resorts when I search online. Unless I can find a reasonable flight and somewhere separate to book in advance to stay at. Thank you for the list of places I can research.

I agree with Courtenie and think any of those places listed would be good. Akumal might be a good choice for a 13 year old, and I'm pretty sure there are a couple of all-inclusives. You'd be able to snorkel right from the beach to see those giant turtles. You would also be close to Xplor and Xcaret in case you wanted to do something different for a day or two.

you can also visit a cenote or multiple to swim for something to do, and visit Tulum

Sorry Courtney, what's a cenote or multiple? Giant turtles?! That'd be awesome. I think I'm going to have to bring this info to my travel agent. He'll know what to do. I know I sure don't really know where to start here. Not used to off the beaten path ideas and planning, but I'm open to it and my son would love the turtles and ruins.

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/.../secret-swims-the-cenotes...

You're so awesome, Courtenie Rachael. Thanks...

Five years ago I took my then-eight year old to Playa del Carmen. We stayed in a couple of little hotels right in town and had the best time. We spent half our days at the hotel pool (I needed shade) and half at the beach. We ate at different restaurants along 5th avenue, the main street that runs through town. She brought her savings and we haggled for a hammock for her... She loved it. We went to Xcaret one day which was fun too.. A full day of interesting things to see and do. Another day we did a snorkeling excursion.. Morning in the ocean, afternoon at a cenote with a lunch at the beach in between. I love Mexico!

I've seen a lot of your posts on here; and my advice is that you really do need to see a travel agent and book with them.

Wendy, I remember Xcaret and Chichen Itza from many years ago and I loved it. And Anita, I think you're right, although I thought I could find better pricing than I would with an agent... ? Maybe not.

If you want to do all your own research and leg work and book yourself ditectly with the tour operator or airline/hotel/transfer then mayne (and only maybe) you could save a few bucks. But ive noticed you've posted so many questions (other than just this post), that dealing with a professional would be worth it.

My daughter and I booked fabulous tours with Viatours this summer when we were in Cancun. Try the Sivatica tour for sure.

Cenotes are amazing.

Please stop with the Mexico is dangerous propaganda. If you aren't buying, dealing drugs, you will be as safe in Mexico as you are in Canada or the USA. I have traveled extensively in Mexico with basic Spanish and NEVER had a problem. I've even been for several nights where the students disappeared. This past summer I spent several nights in Ciudad Juarez, "murder capital of the world." I walked at night and no one bothered me. I have, however, been robbed in Italy and Portugal. And homeless people scream at me periodically here in the USA.

diving in the DR sucks! I lived there for 7 months, so much more to do there!