Hi Mo! My suggestion, fly in. I say this only because there has been some problem in the Peten area with banditos. Anyone who knows me on this site knows that I totally espouse winging it and driving on your own and finding a place when you get there. Its never failed for me anywhere in the world. But, this may be one not to wing it, especially with children. Tikal is wonderful. There are two hotels, not fancy, and I think I mentioned this to you before, right there (Lan, where are you when we need you!!!!!!!!). You can stay in Flores and bus in, but there is much to be said for staying near the place to wake up to the sounds of it. Do make sure you pick up the "Lonely Planet" book. It will give you a wealth of information on the site.