40-Plus, Stress-Free Getaways

40-Plus? Yup. There are plenty of vacation getaways for the over 40 crowd. It seems that so many people have asked me about all inclusive vacations that don't cater to the honeymoon crowd, I feel I must take time to put in my thoughts on the subject. There is a tendency to think that a resort might be "too young for me" when you start to distance yourself from the 20-somethings. If you are old enough to have children that are married, or maybe you have grandchildren, the thought might cross your mind that some resorts may be "just for the kids". Well, I am here to tell you that there are plenty of resorts that are more than right for a visit from anyone over the age of 40.

So, you say that you want an adults-only all inclusive vacation? No problem. Numerous adults-only resorts have opened in the last couple of years. Add these to the previously operating adult facilities and we have a ton of options. I will point out a number of popular resorts for the over-40 group but I first want to provide a few tips. Also, some resorts that allow families are perfect for adults over 40 since they are in more remote locations and tend to see a mainly adult-crowd.

1. April-October is wedding season. When people get married, they take off for a honeymoon. Travel from November-March at adults-only should give you the best shot at a more "mature" crowd. January-April 15th has long been considered the traditional "peak season" for return travelers to the Caribbean.

2. Smaller, more intimate resorts will carry less of a party vibe. Honeymooners that are around larger numbers of like-minded individuals are more likely to be the ones doing upside-down shots at the swim-up bar. The more elegant and formal the resort, the less likelihood of a "too young" crowd.

3. Avoid resort chains, like Sandals Resorts, that are mass-marketed to the honeymoon crowd.

4. Definitely avoid hotels that are deemed "Spring Break friendly". The majority of all inclusive resorts have begun to shun the Spring Break crowd, but be sure to do the proper research before committing to a trip during March.

The following is a list of resorts that have a variety of age groups and should be perfectly acceptable for the over-40 crowd. (I can't guarantee that every week will be the same in terms of age ranges. Also, there WILL always be some younger people on-property.)

El Dorado Maroma in the Mayan Riviera
Half Moon in Montego Bay, Jamaica
Coyaba Beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica
Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Anse Chastenet in St Lucia
Le Blanc Spa in Cancun
Blue Waters in Antigua
Almond Beach Club in Barbados

These are just a few of the examples of resorts for the over-40 crowd. I will say that a number of others will fit the bill at other times during the year. Also, keep in mind that age may not matter. I tend to want to hang around fun people of ALL ages. Find what fits you and have a great all inclusive experience.