Safest Itinerary with Baby

[KristenFMR920]

We have a 18 month old (at time of sailing) and I was wondering if the Eastern or Western Carribean is safer and better for a family. Any thoughts?

 

Western=Cozumel, Caymans, Belize, Honduras

Eastern=Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Marteen, and Princess Cays

[mymollysue]

I am going to go with the Eastern itinerary!

[cb at sea]

I'm NOT a fan of Mexico, so I'd go Eastern, too. But, the Western ports aren't any more dangerous than anywhere else. Due caution, wherever you travel is always a good idea! But, you don't have to go toooooo cautious....just be aware of your surroundings and don't flash wads of cash or hugely expensive jewelry. Really, just act like you're walking to your car in a mall shopping lot....it's really less dangerous than that!

 

Princess Cays is the private beach...just like being on the ship, but you're at a beach!

[Woodmnky]

I'm a bigger fan of the Eastern itinerary as well, that being said we have sailed the Western more often and with the exception of an unfortunate incident in Jamaica we have never not felt safe. Princess Cays does make for a nice day with a toddler as you can get off the ship when you are ready (after nap for example), play for as long as you want and get back on the ship. There is a buffet served on the beach or you can return to the ship for lunch.

[crusinmama06]

With those ports - easily Eastern.

 

With that being said, we have never felt unsafe anywhere. We are just more aware of our surroundings. When we were in Cozumel, our guide told us to "Keep our blonde daughter close" because young blondes are kidnapped for randsom and worse in Mexico. :eek:

 

I knew this in advance but it's not something you want to hear when you are on vacation.

[6rugrats]

Eastern, wouldn't even consider the other.

[lgionet]

I have done both with 2 kids under 3 years old and didn't have any issues/problems. Always felt safe. If I had to choose from the above you mentionned I would say Eastern.

[Keith1010]

I would go with Eastern.

 

I believe the most enjoyable and safest of the ports for the 18 month old will be Princess Cays.

 

Remember, use lots of sunscreen on the 18 month old, in particular, but also for the adults.

 

Keith

[Mack2]

I would also recommend Eastern. In terms of excursions to do, I've always felt that the western excursions are more "adventurous"... There are nice beaches on a western itinerary, but more people do Western for the ATV rides, snorkeling, and zip lining.

 

Beautiful beaches in the Eastern.

[Champagne]

I recommend the eastern.