My wife will be attending a conference next June in Mexico City and we have talked about setting out from there to see some of Central America. I know it is a long time away but wondered if anyone here has some sugestions about points to visit or avoid. Thanks.

Begin with Costa Rica - It is really refreshing country in terms of ecology, nature and very peaceful. Great beaches and active volcano.

Akhullar, thanks. Would you recommend one coast over the other?

I've heard fantastic things about Guatemala.. It's close to Mexico and the people and culture is very hospitable....and the towns and city's are great along with some of the Mayan ruins (I've seen pictures from a friend and they are gorgeous!!)...

The Atlantic Ocean tends to be slightly warmer and less rough in comparsion to the Pacific... but the beaches vary by each town/city...

let us kow of your decision :)

Akhullar, thanks. Would you recommend one coast over the other?

I'd say avoid the Atlantic coast. In my many trips to Costa Rica, I've avoided the area. Also avoid going into SJO City (We did a mistake of spending a day there) If you touched Arenal area (Tabacon Springs) and Tamarindo area you cannot go wrong. We divided the regions of CR and oer the years picked one and focussed on it.

I will have to convey these options to my wife and see what grabs our interest and purse strings, thanks for the input. :)

we are planning a family vacation w/kids there next spring. What would be good places with beaches for the kids and possibly alongside a hotel with a pool?