Where to Go NEXT Spring Break
But First, Let’s Address The Recent Spring Break Travel Disruptions
This has been such a rough week or two for spring break travel. First, too many Canadian tourists got food poisoning from a Royalton resort in the Riviera Maya. Then news broke about cartel violence in Puerto Vallarta. Even though Puerto Vallarta is geographically very far from Cancun, I know that when headlines start stacking up, it all begins to feel like “Mexico” is one big question mark.
If you’re feeling hesitant about an upcoming trip, that doesn’t make you dramatic. It makes you human. When you’re traveling with your kids, your parents, or people you love, safety feels personal. And it should.
Travel will always come with some level of uncertainty. The world is dynamic. But there are some smart ways to protect yourself and hedge against that uncertainty. Here’s what I recommend…
To quote my favorite Florida weatherman, Dennis Phillips, “Rule #7: Don’t freak out.” When Puerto Vallarta like things happen, wait for more information. Then map things out. So many people have been assuming that Puerto Vallarta is close to Cancun. It is not.
For any sort of travel, wash your hands frequently, use bottled water, avoid any food that’s been sitting out too long, and travel with basic meds (anti-diarrheal, electrolyte packets).
Buy travel insurance. But remember, if you’ve put down a non-refundable deposit, you can’t cancel a trip and get a refund because you’re worried about the possibility of something happening. “Fear” and “Worry” are not covered reasons for cancellation. Consider Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) waiver add-ons for trips where you feel any uncertainty. It will add to the cost of your trip, but it will give you peace of mind. You can run a quote for travel insurance here. (For CFAR, make sure you check the CFAR box.) Another quick tip — make sure you know how your travel insurance works and what it includes before you travel! Just like we should all read the manual that comes with our cars…read your travel insurance policy documents!
For any international trip, sign up for the US STEP program. Let the US government know where you are! Also, read the State Department postings on individual countries.
Take the road less traveled. For my clients who are struggling with Mexico, I’ve been redirecting them to Belize, Honduras, and Panama. These countries can be a tough sell because most people don’t know anyone whose ever been. (Maybe you’re hanging out with the wrong people?) Open to your mind to places you’ve never been to. Keep reading this post for some really interesting suggestions! Ready to talk? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
Here’s Where I Think You Should Go on Vacation…
I have relationships with all of these properties and can upgrade your stay with perks and amenities when you are ready.
Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman (Virtuoso Perks)
Oman is one of my favorite destinations. It is so…beguiling. Honestly…it’s one of the coolest places I’ve ever been. Six Senses Zighy Bay sits between dramatic mountains and a private stretch of beach on the Musandam Peninsula. You can literally paraglide into the resort. That’s the level we’re talking about.
Why it works for spring break (for adventurous families):
Private pool villas across the property
Long sandy beach with calm swimming
Adventure programming (hiking, snorkeling, mountain biking)
Wellness focus without feeling preachy
If your family wants a spring break story no one else at school will have — this is it.
Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai (Virtuoso of Marriott Stars & Luminous perks)
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa is deep in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. This is quiet, cinematic desert luxury. LOL with Marriott points for all you Bonvoy addicts. Supercharge your stay with my Marriott Stars & Luminous top-producing advisor status.
Why it works:
All-suite property (every suite has a private pool)
Desert wildlife roaming freely (Arabian oryx sightings are common)
Included desert activities (camel trekking, falconry, dune drives)
Easy to pair with Dubai for a city + desert combo
It’s not a beach week. It’s a desert reset.
Ibagari Boutique Hotel, Roatán, Honduras
Ibagari Boutique Hotel is small, design-forward, and on a gorgeous beach.
Why consider it:
Calm swimmable water
Boutique feel (fewer crowds)
Easy access to world-class snorkeling and diving
Great for families with older kids
It’s unexpected — and that’s the point.
Explora Patagonia National Park, Chile (Virtuoso Perks)
Explora Patagonia National Park is for families who want wide-open landscapes instead of lounge chairs. This is active, immersive travel.
Why it works for the right family:
Guided hiking and exploration built into your stay
Remote, cinematic scenery
Simple, modern rooms focused on the views
Incredible wildlife and stargazing
If your spring break goal is “let’s do something meaningful,” Patagonia delivers.
Anantara Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort, Abu Dhabi (Virtuoso)
Anantara Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort rises out of the Empty Quarter like a mirage. It’s dramatic and surprisingly family-friendly.
Why it works:
Large rooms and private pool villas
Huge infinity pool overlooking dunes
Desert adventures (sandboarding, camel trekking)
Easy pairing with Abu Dhabi or Dubai
It feels cinematic — in the best way.
Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize
Blancaneaux Lodge is rainforest before beach. Think wooden cabanas, waterfalls on property, river tubing, birds of every hue, hiking trails, and evenings around a fire.
Why families love it:
Waterfalls and jungle explorations right outside your door
Bright, clean rooms that still feel organic
On-site restaurant with local/chef-driven food
Great base for Mayan ruins + caves + kayaking
If your family wants adventure that’s still luxury-leaning, this is it.
Jumby Bay Island, Antigua (Virtuoso Perks)
Jumby Bay Island is a private island resort just off Antigua — reachable by boat and instantly quieter than most of the Caribbean. This is classic, polished, and extremely easy.
Why it works for spring break:
Multi-bedroom villas and private residences
Calm, swimmable beaches
Complimentary bikes (kids love this)
Strong kids programming without feeling chaotic
All-inclusive format (but elevated)
If you want refined, low-stress, and very well run — this is a strong family move.
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Puerto Rico (Virtuoso & Marriott Stars & Luminous Perks)
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a Virtuoso property — and one of the easiest luxury spring break options in the Caribbean (no passport required). It feels exclusive, but logistically simple. LOL and also more Bonvoy points for the addicts. (Remember — supercharge your stay with my status as a top-producing Marriott Stars & Luminous advisor.)
Why families love it:
Large suites and private residences
Calm beach with swimmable water
Multiple pools (including a great family pool)
Excellent spa and dining (parents win too)
Easy nonstop flights from major US cities
If you want luxury without complicated travel, this is your answer.
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, St. Lucia (Virtuoso Perks)
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort sits between the Pitons on one of the most dramatic beaches in the Caribbean. This is for families who want scenery with their sunshine.
Why it works for spring break:
Villas with private plunge pools
A protected cove beach (great for swimming and snorkeling)
Large main pool with views of the Pitons
Nature + adventure nearby (hiking, boating, rainforest experiences)
It’s beautiful. It’s memorable. And it feels a little more “wow” than a typical beach week.
COMO Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos (Virtuoso Perks)
COMO Parrot Cay is a true private island resort — reached by boat and instantly calmer than most of the Caribbean. It’s also a Virtuoso property. This is for families who want space, privacy, and zero chaos.
Why it works for spring break:
Multi-bedroom beach houses and private villas
Many accommodations with private pools
Long, uncrowded white sand beach
Two main pools (including an adults-only option)
Excellent food and a strong wellness focus
It’s understated luxury. No loud music. No crowds. Just turquoise water and room to breathe. If you want spring break to feel restorative instead of exhausting — this is your move.
Lovango Resort + Beach Club, St. John
If you want “We did something cooler than everyone else,” this is it. Lovango Resort + Beach Club sits on a private island just off St. John. You take a short boat transfer and suddenly you’re in your own world.
Why it’s great for families:
Private villas and treehouse-style suites (translation: space and privacy)
Gorgeous infinity pool overlooking turquoise water
Beach club access with calm swimming areas
Easy access to St. John’s national park beaches
It feels exclusive without feeling stuffy. For families who want barefoot luxury but still want their teens to think it’s cool — this is a strong contender.
The Shore Club, Turks & Caicos (Virtuoso Perks)
The Shore Club Turks & Caicos is a Virtuoso property — which means my clients get preferred partner perks (think breakfast, upgrades, resort credits). It’s on Long Bay Beach, which is quieter and calmer than Grace Bay.
Why families love it:
Multiple pools (including a gorgeous lap pool and family pool)
Shallow, swimmable water
Large suites and multi-bedroom villas
Easy access to watersports
If you want Caribbean perfection without feeling like you’re in a cruise port, this is it.
Malliouhana, Anguilla (Virtuoso Perks)
Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts Collection is part of Auberge and is in the Virtuoso network. This is elevated Caribbean. Think cliffside views and two beaches within walking distance.
Why it works for spring break:
Spacious suites
Gorgeous infinity pools
Calm, swimmable beaches
Excellent dining (for parents who care about food)
It’s refined but still relaxed enough for families.
Royal Caribbean — The Newest Ships
If you want maximum entertainment with minimal planning, look at:
Icon of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas
Wonder of the Seas
These ships are floating cities.
Why families love them:
Massive waterparks
Surf simulators
Neighborhood concepts so it doesn’t feel chaotic
Tons of dining options
Deposits are small. But cabins for 4–5 people? Those disappear first. If cruising is even remotely on your radar for next spring break, it needs to be booked now.
The Bottom Line
If you’re watching everyone this week thinking, “We should do something great next year and maybe that’s not Mexico,” let’s talk. Spring break is not a “decide in February” situation. Preferred destinations, large suites, connecting rooms, multi-bedroom villas, and prime cruise cabins sell first. Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
About Krista
I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. I attended the University of Notre Dame for undergrad and I have my MBA from the University of Chicago. Before building my travel business, I spent 20 years in the investment management industry and over a decade living and working in London, England. I’ve personally traveled to 80 countries and now design thoughtful, highly customized trips for travelers who value expertise, access, and a seamless experience.
I offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation for travelers considering a custom itinerary or luxury cruise. Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
For travel inspiration and real-time updates, you can follow along on Instagram or connect with me on Facebook. I also share a curated list of travel products I genuinely use and recommend in my online store.
What I Offer…
Custom itinerary design for complex, multi-stop trips
VIP hotel benefits through Virtuoso and preferred partner programs (including complimentary breakfast, hotel credits, and priority for upgrades where available)
Luxury ocean, river, and expedition cruises with added onboard credits
Vetted villa rentals with concierge services worldwide
Private guides, small-group touring, and unique local experiences
Private aviation and yacht charters through trusted partners
Airport transfers, VIP arrival and departure services, and full ground logistics
Travel protection and support when plans change
I work best with travelers who want expert planning, trusted partnerships, and someone in their corner from start to finish. That’s what I am best at! Ready to talk travel? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
