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2016
21
June
Where Can You Find a Safe, Laid-Back Beach Destination for a Family With a Toddler?

Question:

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Nycki

Wondering if anyone can recommend a cheap hot, relaxing laid back place to vacation? I've done a ton of backpacking but like 10 years ago so not sure about prices anymore. We would like to go for a month or more and have a one year old. Would prob rent a lil place and make our own food as opposed to backpacking all over. Would prefer somewhere safe and family friendly but also not crazy touristy. A nice beach is a huge bonus!! I remember loving Montezuma and Puerto Viego in Costa Rica! Would love suggestions

Humans say...

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Ellyce

Nycki go to Bali!

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Nycki

Haha Sara!!! Girl I would love to it's one of my favs but the flights r to far and pricey right now for us!!! I need something closer lol

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Jane

Check out San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua.

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Nycki

Yeah love it there!! I've been twice but 10 + years ago! I can only imagine it now!! I'm cheap and travelled off 10 a day before for everything. What would u say is the norm now for there? What r food prices like?

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Jane

We went almost 3 years ago and it didn't seem overly touristy/inflated. I suspect you could keep your costs low if you really wanted to. I think we felt like we were getting good value, even in Grenada, but I've never been a hardcore budget traveller. We had our 3yo and 5yo with us and they had a blast.

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Nycki

Ya fair enough! I was pretty hardcore budget traveller when I was younger because I would stay 6 months or so but it was never that much fun lol! I stayed in some pretty shady places
I prob need to up my budget a lil! Cool though thanks for the suggestion!!

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Ashley

My hubby and I stayed in Granada a few years ago on our honeymoon. We had a private room in a hostel for $25/night. The hostel also had computers, hammocks, free pancake breakfast and a kitchen. And a pool! Eating out with drinks was about $30-40 a meal for both of us, but if you cooked it'd probably be less than $10 a day.

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Nycki

Thanks Ashley for the info!! Sounds like my kinda honeymoon! Granada is great!

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Ron

Hey, Sara. That is exactly what I was going to say. We just got back from a month in Bali and Gili Meno. Loved it. Flight very long, but once there, very inexpensive, safe, beautiful, and family friendly.

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Nycki

Oh a month good on ya!! I loved the gili islands! Ah paradise! I loved ubud to!!

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Nycki

Has anyone been to isla mujheres recently? I spent a month there years ago but remember loving it!!! Not much to do but go to the beach but I'm so ok with that!

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Ron

I'd be interested in what people have to say. I loved my visits there, but haven't been since 1994, and even then it was becoming really developed. It would still be a great low key family vacation even now, I am sure.

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Nycki

yeah it's probably still pretty chill hey! Oh the beach and water there is to die for!!

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Ron

Yes, they are great. I have terrific memories of staying at Poc-Na Hostel, one of the best located hostels in the world, I believe - for $8/night including breakfast!

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Nycki

Haha yup I stayed there as well

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Tricia

Malaysia easy to get around cheap, very family, great beaches, and great food ! Perhentian islands and redang gorgeous.

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Nycki

Love Malaysia! A lil to far of a flight right now but great suggestion! Thanks

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Kelsey

Tofo, Mozambique ... not necessarily cheap to get there but cheap to live. Absolutely gorgeous and the people are amazing. Plus There are a couple ex-pat families in the area with young kids which could be fun!

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Nycki

That sounds amazing! Would love to go to Africa!

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Kelsey

Africa will blow your mind, but of all the places i went while i was there, Mozambique would be one of the best to have an authentic experience but still feel very safe with a little one.

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Nycki

Yeah I've heard Mozambique is unreal! I forsure need to
Put it on my soon to travel bucket list!! Thanks for sharing your experience!!

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Dominiqu

I would highly recommend Cabarete on the North Coast of the DR or Treasure Beach in Jamaica.

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Nycki

Thanks Dominique I will look into those places! I've been to Jamaica a couple times but never treasure beach

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Lindsay

Kauai.

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Nycki

Oh Kauai has always been a dream destination of mine! Can you recommend any particular places to stay?

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Lindsay

Nycki it's absolutely stunning there!... beautiful, laid back, safe & family friendly. We went pre-parenthood and stayed at the Sheraton in Poipu. Recommend this area!! For budget friendly accommodation I'd just peruse airbnb... we just spent 3 glorious weeks in Italy in various airbnb accommodations and had nothing but positive experiences for amazing prices! I think car rental was very reasonably priced there & can save money buying own groceries even despite that pesky US dollar
Plus, activities are cheap because there's so much natural beauty to explore

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Andrew

Santorini,Greece...was Beautiful and laid back.

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Nycki

Oh santorini sounds amazing! I've heard great things! Did u find it pretty budget friendly? Maybe it's cheaper now with their economy

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Andrew

We stayed a week in a Family run Villa with a kitchenette. Was 45 a night canadian


A.I. says...

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The Best Affordable and Family-Friendly Beach Destinations for a Relaxing Vacation

Finding the perfect spot for a laid-back, budget-friendly vacation can be a challenge, especially when traveling with a young child. However, there are plenty of destinations around the world that offer a blend of affordability, safety, and family-friendly amenities, all while providing a relaxing beach atmosphere. Here are some recommendations to consider:

1. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen is a charming coastal town in the heart of the Riviera Maya, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable living. The town offers a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, shops, and parks, making it an ideal spot for families with young children. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly vacation rentals to mid-range hotels, and the local cuisine is both delicious and inexpensive.

2. Gili Islands, Indonesia

The Gili Islands, located off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia, are a true tropical paradise. These islands boast pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back vibe that's perfect for families seeking a relaxing getaway. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly beach bungalows to mid-range resorts, and the local cuisine is a delightful fusion of Indonesian and international flavors.

3. Caye Caulker, Belize

Caye Caulker is a small island off the coast of Belize, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant Creole culture, and affordable living. The island has a "no shirt, no shoes, no problem" vibe, making it a perfect spot for families looking to unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly beach cabanas to mid-range hotels, and the local seafood is both fresh and affordable.

4. Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Mirissa, a coastal town in southern Sri Lanka, is a hidden gem that offers an authentic local experience, breathtaking beaches, and affordable living. The town is known for its stunning sunsets, whale watching opportunities, and welcoming community. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range beach resorts, and the local cuisine is a delicious blend of flavors from around the world.

No matter which destination you choose, remember to embrace the local culture, immerse yourself in the laid-back lifestyle, and enjoy the quality time with your family in these affordable and family-friendly beach paradises.









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