BuffettNews.com

My parents are planning on a taking a trip in December to the Caribbean and we are looking for places that would be good for families with older children (17 and 22). Does anyone have any ideas or experiences? Thanks!

Check out this website - I was referred to it by another Buffetnewser: www.traveltalkonline.com

Another valuable source is www.tripadvisor.com

As I've only been to one Caribbean resort so far (the Ritz Carlton, in Montego Bay, which was really great and would be pretty good for parents w/ older kids), I can't offer much first-hand knowledge, but those two websites have a lot of trip reports and reviews.

Enjoy the planning - It's almost as much fun as the actual trip, in my opinion!

Thanks.. I'll check those out!

I really wouldn't consider 17 and 22 "children", I would consider them old enough to want to do more than be entertained at the resorts kid's club.

What I think you need to look for is a resort that will cater to a broad range of people. One that has activities, a clean beach, a nice pool (with a swim up bar ), and several restaurant choices either on site (if at an all inclusive) or within walking distance. What you want to avoid is a resort that is "family friendly", meaning one that is known to attract many families with small children (think kiddies running all over the beach/pool area and constantly knocking your drink over! ).

There are a ton of places that fit that bill. Just depends on what island you have in mind and maybe that would be determined by how much you want to spend. Do you want to go all inclusive (drinks, food, tips and taxes included) or do you want to stay at a place where you go off property for all or most of your meals?

Lots of things to consider when picking a resort. Who woulda thunk it, right?

I just got back from 9 days in Jamiaca and the resort I stayed at would be more than suitable for people of that age. If you want more info on this all inclusive resort, just pm me.