Following Dubya

Regardless of what you think of the man's politics, the man has definitely got one thing right: Latin America is worth a visit.

When a friend asked for recommendations on a beach hotel recently, we rattled off a list. Then it occurred to us that, without trying to, we seemed to be aiming for Latin shores. While many Spanish-speaking destinations have not pursued their tourism marketing to the extent of say, Hawaii or the Canary Islands, that may be to your advantage: you'll find relatively lower rates at some properties that offer attentive service and more to do than just bask on the beach (although personally we love basking). Below, a varied group of suggestions for getaways a la playa, with rates for the end of April:


Paradisus Playa Conchal, Costa Rica - This all-inclusive resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World that's sprawled out over 2400 acres, is noteworthy for catering equally well to adults and children. Family Concierge suites feature child-specific amenities such as mini-sized bathrobes, minibars stocked with drinks for kids and adults, and nightly turndown service with milk and cookies. Their Kids' Club will welcome your infant as well as older children, leaving you free to explore the golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones II, the spa, casino or the adult-only pool. Of course, there's a pool the kids can enjoy with you, and specific events designed just for families.

Rates are $718 night for the Family Concierge Suite (all-inclusive)

Sivory Punta Cana, Dominican Republic - This member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World is not overflowing with child-specific amenities, but it's a breathtaking property that caters to all of its guests with style. The focus here is on relaxation and cuisine, with a spa that offers up a Vichy shower and numerous body treatments, and restaurants featuring Mediterranean, French and Asian-fusion cooking. If that's not enough to help you relax, an 8,000 bottle wine cellar and a private beach should do the trick.

Rates start at $480 a night for a deluxe junior suite, and go to $850 a night when including their meal plan. Note that children ages 2-6 are charged a nominal fee, and children over 6 are charged as adults.




Early evening in a Morgan's Rock guestroom

Morgan's Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge, Nicaragua - Morgan's Rock is just one facet of a large reforestation and conservation program that stretches out over 1000 hectares. The owners take their commitment to ecotourism seriously: furniture in the rooms and bungalows was made from wood left over from construction of the lodge, lamps were made using leftover metal, and the pool uses natural salt instead of chlorine. The staff protects the sea turtle eggs laid on the lodge's private beach, and the owners have reintroduced native flora and fauna to their property. None of this means sacrificing the good life, however: wonderfully fresh and delectable meals are made on property (and included in your room rate), and all bungalows feature king-size beds, sofas, private outdoor showers, and westward-facing decks from which to view the glorious sunsets. The lodge actively encourages your interest in the surroundings with tours of the property, and you can also go mountain biking, kayaking or fishing.

Rates begin at $225 per person for a double, with children paying $115, and include 3 meals, local non-alcoholic drinks and a limited choice of 2 daily tours.

Pueblo Bonito Rose, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - This resort is rated #1 by TripAdvisor's travelers for family hotels in Cabo San Lucas. Perhaps a little over the top with the attempts at Mediterranean decor, the property nonetheless features nicely-furnished rooms with full kitchenettes (we'd go for the Luxury Suites, which include the sofa bed that Junior Suites don't). There's also a calm-water beach, a kids' club for the 4 and up group, and daily activities including lessons in Spanish and salsa.

Rates start at $299 a night for a Junior Suite, $374 for a Luxury Suite

Hasta la vista!