Looking for relaxing beach/shopping vacation for me and my mom?

Question

I'm 26 years old and I'd like to surprise my mom with a mother/daughter beach getaway. She's not the most adventurous - she would probably rather a trip where she could lounge on a beautiful (not terribly crowded) beach and drink tropical fruity drinks. We would also love to walk around a charming nearby town and shop. Local cultural sites would be great too. Just nothing too strenuous, as she has an old back injury that limits her a bit. Any ideas? I've been looking at Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or maybe somewhere in the Caribbean. Also not sure if all-inclusive would be better or not. I don't want somewhere that's too far from an airport (we don't want to spend too much time commuting). We'll only have about 5 days, and I was thinking maybe late January, since we'd avoid spring break crowds and it'll be cheaper (and I'm paying for both of us:). Any suggestions would be MUCH appreciated! I've been going in circles...

Answer 1

Sounds like you have been to all the tourist spots around the Cancun area. Have you been to Puerto Morelos? Its right outside of Cancun on the way to Playa. It is a small fishing village with a limited amount of clubs, restaurants and most of all tourist. The beaches are for the most part, secluded. It is definitely a place to lay back and relax. Its also close to Playa, Tulum, Xel-ha and Cancun. It is not the place for shopping though. For that I would go to Playa or maybe Cancun.

I wouldn't pay for an all-inclusive. Its a waste of money, plus it ties you down to the resort instead of exploring. Plus dining out would give you an opportunity to spend time with your mother.

(my mother and I stayed here for 4 days and had the best time ever in Mexico, we did nothing but spend time with each other and relax.)

Have fun where ever you decide

Answer 2

Playa del Carmen is the greatest, you're guaranteed to have a great time! I can't say the same about Cancun or Cozumel. My aunt and uncle went to Cancun last Summer and almost got killed by a rogue swordfish... Scary!

Answer 3

I've been looking at the same kind of thing. When i visited with a trevel agent she said that all the resorts on Riviara Maya are much more relaxing than staying directly in Cancun. Playa Del Carmen has the best beaches. Most of the resorts are about an hour from the airport. A 40 minute ferry ride over to Cozumel. The island is only about a mile away.

All-inclusive would definitely make everything easier. All your meals are included and there are some activities included. Hope I helped! Have fun :)  

Answer 4

Puket,Pattaya, Koi Samu- Thailand

Simpadan, Pearl of the Orient, Tioman, Club Med-Malaysia

Har Long Bay, Ho Chi Min City , Vun Tau-Vietman

Bali, Medan,Suluwasi-Indonesia

Sentosa Island-Singapore

All the above places are value for $$$ , food very unique, people are friendy....of course beautiful sunset , tropical climate colours and intresting stuff to buy ...

Answer 5

Look up St. Pete and Sarasota Beach, Florida!

They beaches are beautiful and the towns surrounding them have some interesting stuff.