Family Time In Ixtapa

A note to everyone who enjoys Club Meds and their "antidote to civilization": The Club Med Ixtapa on the west coast of Mexico is re-opening this month after extensive renovations. A lot of money has gone into re-doing the 298 guest rooms, which were comfortable but no great shakes in the past. Now the rooms, which are spread out in casitas across the property, are larger and appointed with stuff like flat-screen TVs and internet access, with 60 family suites available. The public buildings have also been spruced up and a new restaurant has been added.

The property itself occupies a gorgeous slice of beach on the Pacific Ocean, with public buildings done in bright colors with features like arches and Mexican tile. We went there several years ago with a two-month old baby and 11-year old big brother, and everybody had a good time. Club Med long had a reputation as being a kind of '70s-throwback experience of swinging singles and annoyingly peppy "g.o." counselors, but they worked hard to change their ways in the last ten years. Now they cater more to families, with kids' camps that provide supervision and activities for kids who range from infants to teens. Our older son enjoyed the freedom of coming and going from camp activities; the baby just drooled a lot and took his naps at camp while his mother swam and roller-skated.

I've always enjoyed the non-stop activities, such as sailing, paddling, archery and basketball, that don't have to be scheduled and can be done spur-of-the-moment. The buffet food is generally good, thanks to the French influence of Club Meds, and the counselors are always a mix of European, Canadian and American kids who provide a cosmopolitan flair to the place. For active families who also like to laze around a beach and pool, eat well and hang out together (because there is truly nothing else to do in Ixtapa, Mexico), I recommend it.

If you go, drop us a line and let us know how the renovation looks. Adios, mes amis!