lanyga

We're looking for a destination for an all inclusive vacation in the summer months. We will be traveling with an infant and a three year old, as well as extended family that includes a 6 year old. Here are our requirements:
1. Beach resort with easy access snorkeling and other beach activities.
2. Great pool area, preferably one that has a kid-friendly area for the younger ones.
3. Good food (this is where we're having the most trouble after reading reviews for various all inclusives)
4. Nice, clean rooms that are not outdated. We're not expecting the Ritz or Four Seasons but we're used to accomodations of the Westin calibur.
5. We'd like to keep our budget per family in the $3,000's for 6 to 7 nights(paying for 2 adults and one child each for all inclusive) not including air.
6. Mexico is not out of the question.
7. The resort must have some kid-friendly features, but doesn't necessarily need to have a kids program for all ages of kids we have.

The resorts that have come the closest to our criteria are
Iberostar Paraiso Lindo
Iberostar Paraiso Maya

I am a little concerned after reading some of the reviews, though, particularly when it comes to food.

We've done Beaches Negril and Beaches Turks & Caicos, and we're hoping to find something just one level nicer, if such a place exists.
Any help is greatly appreciated!

laplaya

Highly recommend Bermuda for summer. *****
Safe, manicured island with flowers.
Beautiful, pink beaches.
Excellent food/hotels.
Dress code in restaurants. (I think it was jacket & tie, skirts)

Only thing is I did not opt for all inclusive, and not sure which hotel has it.

Try tripadvisor for hotel reviews.

schmerl

The Iberostars are great resorts. The Lindo and Maya share all facilities, so you can save some money by staying at the Lindo. The Maya rooms are a bit bigger though and the Maya has elevators in the buildings.
Food is very subjective. What one person loves, another hates. We had no complaints about the food at the Iberostar Paraiso complex. There is enough variety that there is always something for everyone. The ice cream is REALLY good!!!
The snorkeling is not the best at the Iberostar complex though. You could always take an excursion if that is important to you.
You may also want to look into the Barcelo . It's a UGE complex that does have some good snoekeling right at their beach and also has a "water park" for the children.

laplaya

Also recommend St. Lucia.. beautiful island.

Lush, tropical, waterfalls...scenic.

boscoe

I recommend the Barcelo in Rivera Maya, Mexico. There is decent snorkling offshore - especially in front of the palace section. They have a wonderful kids pool area, and good food. Stay in the Colonial/tropical or the newer Palace sections. Your kids will love it.