Spain with young kids? Want to plan fun trip where kids can use their Spanish

[Anonymous]

How about Costa Rica for a safe, closer venue, but still Spanish speaking? Most people in the tourist industry speak English, but are more than willing to work with you on Spanish if you try

If you're still thinking of Spain, we took our DS to Madrid & Mallorca @ age 3. There are a lot of great playgrounds in both places.

We've been to Barcelona 2x with DS (age 6mo & 7yo). He only remembers a little of the second trip, so I wouldn't worry so much about how much Castillian you do or don't get in. Pick your trip based on what you want to see.

Barca is a very cool city. But keep your wits about you. Beside heavy pickpocketing in the touristy Ramblas & Arab quarter, there always seems to be some demonstration or another going on. Think lots of loudspeakers and firecrackers, which can both be deafening if you're caught too near. Gracia is a nice, family-centered part of town where you can rent an apartment and blend in with the tons of families that hang out in the plazas at night.

Bilbao is more kid-friendly than you might think. There is a HUGE playground next to the famous museum. Also, San Sebastian was a lot of fun in the summer: beaches + great food + merry go round + miniature theme park waaaay up on a hill.

Puerto Rico is where DH is from, and the island has been experiencing a lot of crime lately. Not as bad as Mexico. We have been there a lot of times in the past, but it always seems a bit shabbier and more run down each time, so we've been giving it a pass over the past two years.