To honor U.S. military members and civil first responders, the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is offering their second year of Salute to Service specials. Resort room rates have been slashed to $99 per night for stays beginning Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2011 through January 18, 2012. Although I am neither a member of the military nor a first responder, I have had the pleasure of staying at this upscale family resort, and let me tell you, $99 is a smokin’ deal! In fact, this special rate is the lowest offered by the resort all year, representing 70 to 75% off the standard room rates of $329 to $409.
With the choice of two TPC PGA-Tour golf courses, golfers will love the Salute to Service package with unlimited golf at just $179 per night for one person. That’s a great discount for golf-loving military and first responders since the walk-up rate for a round of golf is $175.
If the spa is more your thing, head on over to the gorgeous Lantana Spafor a heavenly treatment or two.
While mom and dad are busy with these grown-up distractions kids aged 4+ will have a ball with arts and crafts, toys galore, and outdoor fun at the Range Riders kids’ camp.
If you ask me, the best part of JW Marriott San Antonio is the River Bluff Water Experience, which features pools, two huge waterslides, a 1,200-foot lazy river lined with Cypress trees, and a zero-entry tot pool with fountains and mini slides.
Active duty and retired members of the military or their dependents and civil first responders (fire, police, paramedics) should request the Salute to Service rate (rate code: SIU) when making reservations at www.jwsanantonio.com. A military or service I.D. is required at check-in. Enjoy, my military and first responder friends. You deserve it!
A Note from The Travel Mama: I received a complimentary stay at the JW Marriott San Antonio a couple of years ago. I received no compensation or benefits related to this post. I just love this hotel and think this is a wonderful deal for military and first responders.
Photos from the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa website.
If you’re anything like me, every now and then you crave a little bit of good, old fashioned girl-time. Of course, you love the husby or boyfriend and children dearly, but there’s really something special about getting away for a weekend of non-stop gals-only goodness. I’ve put together a list of five U.S. girlfriend getaway destinations to tempt you and your friends, no matter what type of vacation you seek.
Parties & Pools - Las Vegas, Nevada Las Vegas is a hot spot for girlfriend getaways. Exploring the amazing hotels and casinos is always a thrill, even if you’re not a gambler. Of course throwing a few coins into the slot machines can certainly take the edge off – and might just buy you a round of cocktails (like it did for me)! If you want to try something a little adventurous, you can sign up for a G-rated pole dancing class for girls only, where a professional dancer will give you a workout and help you learn to let loose for a few hours all in good fun. And really, what better way to relax with your best gals than over a big, pink cocktail in the sun around one of America’s most glamorous pools?
Culture & Shopping – Chicago, Illinois If you and your girlfriends have a more cultural bent, make a weekend of it in Chicago. The Windy City has a huge number of institutions where you can expand your mind and artistic sensibilities, including the famed Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Institute of Chicago. And then there’s the shopping. Chicago has a lot of great shopping, from the high-end stores along the Magnificent Mile to the unique, bohemian boutiques in the Wicker Park neighborhood.
One of California’s Plentiful Beaches (Photo by Mike Baird, Flickr)
Relaxation & Cheap Thrills – Los Angeles, California With L.A.’s strange mix of ultra-glam and gritty, there’s a lot of wonderful ”no good” in the City of Angels for a group of fun-loving girls to get up to. For starters, you’ll want to give Hollywood at least a passing glance – maybe stick your hands in Johnny Depp’s handprints on the Walk of Fame or try to catch a glimpse of George Clooney getting his morning paper in Beverly Hills. Beyond those cheap thrills, though, Los Angeles is a great city for relaxation. You might also want to get to the beach for a bit of tanning time, maybe take a surfing lesson, or even do a grown-up’s tour of Disneyland in nearby Anaheim!
Nashville’s Music Scene (Photo by jramspott, Flickr)
Live Music Scene & Long Chats – Nashville, Tennessee Nashville is a happening city that makes a good central destination for girlfriends hailing from different parts of the country. The obvious thing to do in Nashville is check out the live music scene, with several musical genres on tap for friends of varying tastes. Nashville is also full of gorgeous little cafes, diners, bistros, and coffee shops where you can easily while away afternoons over fresh salads, a glass of white wine, or a foamy cappuccino during long chats with your best friends.
New Mexico’s Ten Thousand Waves Spa (Photo by Lori Grieg, Flickr)
Rejuvination & Nature Appreciation - Santa Fe, New Mexico The mountainous capital of New Mexico is a perfect hideaway for ladies that want to rejuvenate. Santa Fe is small, but packed with great shopping (especially if you like the Southwest style, like handmade turquoise jewelry), a massive number of restaurants per capita, and a relaxed nightlife. The city is nestled into the base of the Rocky Mountains, so there are a lot of outdoorsy activities if you want to get away from it all. During the winter, you can make it a cozy ski holiday. In the summer, take a hike or visit some ancient Native American pueblo villages. Santa Fe has tons of spa options, including Ten Thousand Waves, a luxurious Japanese-style spa tucked away in the mountains above the city.
No matter which of these destinations you pick, you are sure to find delicious food, excellent spas, and fun shopping to share with your besties. And really, you’ll be so busy giggling and gabbing that you might just forget where you are!
Travel writer and wanderluster, Megan Eaves is the author of two travel guidebooks and runs the Irish travel website www.irishjaunt.com. Having traveled to 25 countries and lived in four, she is an expert on Ireland, China and the American Southwest, where she grew up, and also often writes about her adventures around Europe, especially Prague, where she is currently living. More about Megan and her writing is on her website, www.meganeaveswriting.com.
What is your favorite destination for a girlfriend getaway? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I have expounded on the bountiful kid-friendly benefits of Disney’s new ship, Dream. But the latest addition to Disney Cruise Line’s fleet offers plenty of fun for adults too. Many people think a Disney cruise is just for kids. Not true! In fact, not counting casino space (Disney does not offer gambling at sea), Disney offers more adult-only space than many cruise lines.
Disney Dream Fireworks
Relax at Quiet Cove Pool Quiet Cove Pool is an adult-only space that provides a splendid retreat from the boisterous family-friendly fun at Mickey’s Pool, Donald’s Pool, and the Nemo’s Reef splash area. Check the kiddos into their respective camps and pull up a lounge chair for some serious mama-time filled with magazine reading, pina colada sipping, and relaxing in the hot tub. Or, burn off those extra calories from the breakfast buffet by swimming a few laps.
Senses Spa & Salon Treatment Room
Escape to Senses Spa & Salon
Dream’s spa offers massages, body wraps, facials, aromatherapy and more. Looking for romance? Check out the Senses Spa Villas for services catering to couples, which are offered in private Mediterranean-inspired Villas. Each Villa has a private verandah off the suite with a whirlpool and comfy double loungers. Salon services include manicures, pedicures, hairstyling and blowouts, plus teeth whitening, and a barber shop for traditional men’s grooming services. Next time I’m on board, I’d love to indulge in a Senses Spa & Salon Fire & Ice Pedicure, which the Disney Cruise Line website describes as, “sublime as your feet and lower legs are soothed with our cooling gels and then warmed with a heated stone massage.” Sign me up!
Entrance to Palo
Savor Fine Dining at Palo or Remy
Similar to the original ships, Magic and Wonder, this latest addition to the Disney fleet offers upscale Northern Italian dining at Palo for guests aged 18+ at an additional charge of $20 per person for brunch or dinner. Dream takes it one step fancier with a new adult-only dining option featuring fine French cuisine at Remy for $75 per person. While I didn’t get a chance to sample the cuisine at Remy, I can tell you from firsthand experience how delectable the cuisine is at Palo from my brunch and dinner experiences during my Disney Mediterranean Cruise.
Remy is named for the adorable rat-turned-chef in the Disney film, Ratatouille, and features such dishes as smoked bison with fennel salad and blood oranges and lobster with vanilla bisque and lobster roe foam. For dessert, how about a white chocolate and Meyer lemon purse with blackberry-violet sherbet or vanilla poached pear with cassis mousse and hazelnut meringue?
Unwind at the Cove Cafe Looking for a latte and a little me-time? Head to the Cove Cafe to grab a scone and a cappuccino away from the joyous screams of children. This adult-only spot is a great place to dive into your latest novel without interruption or to check your emails on your laptop (Wi-Fi available at an extra charge).
Pink Champagne Bar
Enjoy Night Life Disney-Style The District is a grown-up paradise on Dream filled with watering holes and dance clubs aplenty. You can watch the game at 687, get your groove on at Evolution, or sip cocktails with faux city views at Skyline.
My favorite after hours spot aboard Dream was Pink. Men might be intimidated by this aptly named champagne bar, but for girly girls like me – it is heaven! Champagne-colored walls, comfy pink arm chairs, and flute-shaped chandeliers made me feel like a genie in a bottle of bubbly. Order a glass of sparkling wine or a cocktail fit for a princess, like the Royal Bellini made with peach puree and champagne.
For an oceanview, head to the top deck and grab a drink at Currents, an outdoor bar that overlooks the adult-only Quiet Cove Pool. On our last night, a bunch of fellow journalists and our travel mates gathered here to gab and have a drink (or two!). Disney is the only cruise line that presents an at sea fireworks show, which we could see perfectly from our perch above the pool. It was a truly magical way to end our cruise.
The AquaDuck
Take a Spin on the AquaDuck Children 42 inches and taller delight in taking a whirl down the first water coaster at sea, the AquaDuck. But, believe me, this waterslide isn’t just for kids! I was amped up to ride this contraption ever since I first learned about it during a press preview meeting I attended at Walt Disney World a year prior. I even added it to my bucket list!
The AquaDuck was off-limits for most of our two-day media cruise while television and radio personalities got first dibs on rides aboard inner-tubes fitted with television cameras that recorded their waterslide journeys. After those final night drinks and fireworks, my husband convinced me to leave the kids in their respective camps just a wee bit longer while we took the Duck for a spin. We convinced Hip Travel Mama(not to be confused with me, the regular ol’ Travel Mama) and her hip husband to join our late night revelry. The four of us felt like little kids again boarding our tandem two-person floats, giggling and screaming our way down and around the ship on the slide. This was one of my most memorable and joy-filled experiences on Dream; I highly recommend a late night spin on the AquaDuck, especially with friends!
What activity would you most like to experience on board Disney Dream? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
A Note from The Travel Mama: Disney Cruise Line hosted my family’s two-night media cruise aboard Dream. Trust me, I was singing DCL’s praises long before I became a travel writer!
Nearly 1,000 spas across the U.S. are celebrating this year’s Spa Week April 11-17. Tired mamas can take a mini vacation from the dishes piled in the sink, mounds of laundry, and never-ending to-do lists with a spa service for just $50. These treatments normally cost anywhere from $75-$500. Each location will offer two to three of their most popular spa services at the discounted Spa Week price. I was lucky to preview a service from EnviouSkin, a participating spa in San Diego. What a wonderful and affordable way to indulge in some much needed me-time!
Photo courtesy of Spa Week
Options & Locations Galore Choose from treatments like a 60-minute Intensive Hydrating Facial at Visible Difference Day Spa in Lexington, MA; a 70-minute Package with Herbal Mineral Bath and Wrap with Light Therapy Treatment at Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa in North Bonneville, WA; or a 60-min Pain Killer Massage at Elixir Mind Body Massage in Denver, CO.
Childcare Available
Need a babysitter? That’s no excuse! Eighty-two LifeSpa locations are offering FREE child care while you get pampered during Spa Week.
EnviouSkin treatment room
EnviouSkin Review
I was invited by San Diego’s EnviouSkinspa to check out one of their Spa Week offerings firsthand. I received a thoroughly relaxing 50-minute Selenite Crystal Massage (normally $145 for 90 minutes). Located in the eclectic University Heights neighborhood of San Diego, where bookstores, independently owned coffee shops, and unique cafes abound – EnviouSkin specializes in skin care, massage, and waxing.
First my massage therapist, Orlando Ramos, offered me a choice of which scented lotion I preferred: Kukui nut, lavender, or orange blossom. After sniffing each, I selected the Kukui nut, an alluring scent reminiscent of coconut oil and a warm day at the beach. The Selenite Crystal Massage uses traditional massage techniques blended with soothing strokes using heated smooth Selenite crystals to help ease away tensions. Orlando said, “I’m a huge believer in the healing power of crystals and the healing power of touch. This combines both.”
Selenite crystals at EnviouSkin
The spa’s youthful owner, Kim Schweizer, hails from Frankfurt, Germany where she attended school to become an esthetician for three years. The same schooling takes just six months in the United States. Kim said she wants to bring the European experience to her clients, adding, “Nothing is more rewarding than making people feel good.”
Well, my trip to EnviouSkin during Spa Week certainly made this mama feel great!
Book Your Spa Week Treatment You deserve some me-time too! Browse the $50 Spa Week directory now and book your treatment ASAP because spas will book up before you know it.
What is your favorite spa or spa treatment? Please share in the comments below!
After a hectic day that included a trip to the emergency room for one of our children (don’t worry, she’s fine!), the minute my husband and I stepped into the lobby at the Intercontinental Montelucia Resort & Spa in Scottsdale we could feel our tensions begin to drift away. During our trip to Arizona to visit family this past fall we dumped left the kids at my parents’ house and checked into this luxurious resort for a mini romantic getaway filled with fine dining, good wine, spa treatments, relaxation and, of course, romance.
Intercontinental Montelucia in Scottsdale, Arizona
A Hopeful Welcome At check-in we were invited to choose from a myriad of colorful rocks in a decorative wooden box. We were to then make a wish when dropping the stone into the Joya Fountain located at the entrance of the resort’s on-site Joya Spa. Never mind that I dropped my wishing stone in the wrong fountain, my wish was granted.
Joya Fountain Tradition
A Meal to Remember A bellman dropped our bags in our room while we headed straight to our overdue dinner reservations at Montelucia’s signature restaurant, Prado. While this fine-dining restaurant’s decor and name are Spanish, the menu was filled with Italian-inspired offerings thanks to the influence of its Head Chef Claudio Urciuoli, who hails from the Cinque Terre region of Italy. Two classical guitarists, the Sonas Brothers, played Spanish flamenco music intermingled with renditions by the Eagles and other well-known artists.
To ease our rattled nerves, we ordered a bottle of a wine. I was a little surprised to find a few Arizona wines on the menu and even more surprised by how much I liked the sangiovese blend from an Arizona winery, Paige Springs.
The signature restaurant, Prado
Next, we ordered a scrumptious antipasto platter to ease our rumbling bellies. It was a delightful mixture of tastes and textures including Manchego cheese, prosciutto, olives, giant toasted almonds, orange blossom honey, and crackers. The we split the Local Lettuces. While the salad was visually stunning with its curls of bright, thinly sliced carrots and hot pink watermelon radish, the sherry vinegar dressing was too acidic for my palate. Next time I’d try the Panzanella – an Italian salad made from homemade bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta and wild oregano.
You can choose both a pasta and main course in the Italian tradition, but we skipped the noodles and went straight for the entree. My husband sopped up any remaining broth from his bowl of Caciucco, a traditional Tuscan seafood stew. Meanwhile the tangy, pillows of olive gnocchi were the highlight of my Coumbia River Coho Salmon dish.
Caciucco, traditional Tuscan seafood stew
After my husband and I (playfully) argued over which dessert to order, our waitress brought us all three choices: a white chocolate coconut cake served with passion fruit, a warm chocolate cake served with vanilla gelato, and an apple crostata served with bourbon caramel. The argument then continued over which confection was the best. My husband insists it was the crostata but if you like chocolate, the Moelleux au Chocolat is absolutely not to be missed.
Grounds for Romance Not quite ready to turn in for the night, we took a stroll through the resort’s fountain-filled grounds before warming up in hanging chairs nestled beside a roaring fire pit. It was the perfect way to top off our romantic evening.
Warming up by the fire after dinner
Room with a View Our room had a rustic Spanish elegance featuring carved wood furniture accented with a modern crimson couch on which to snuggle up before climbing into the plush platform bed. The massive tiled bathroom with sunken tub and separate two-head shower was impressive but the best part was the view. Giant doors slid open onto our balcony, which overlooked the pool, the resort’s plentiful fountains, and the burning fire pits below. In the not-too-far distance we could see the outline of the camel’s head of the famous Camelback Mountain illuminated by the light of the moon.
View of the resort and Camelback Mountain from our room’s balcony in the morning
Breakfast for Two For a casual breakfast of gourmet coffee and house-made pastries, we considered popping into Crave Cafe. Instead we opted to return to Prado for the breakfast buffet. We chose the continental version with fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, bagels with cream cheese and lox, and an array of pastries. Those seeking a heartier meal can order the full buffet with eggs, meats, and other savory selections.
Yogurt and granola parfaits on display at the Prado’s breakfast buffet
A Spa Escape No romantic getaway would be complete for me without a trip to the spa. Joya Spa invokes the feeling of an exotic Morrocan escape with its decorative tile-work, an abundance of bright throw pillows, and sheer curtains draped across entryways. My husband worked out in the spa’s fitness center while I indulged in a massage treatment. Afterward, we relaxed together beside the Joya Terrace roof-top pool.
Traditional spa treatments like facials, nail treatments, hair service, massages, and body treatments of all kinds are available. If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out their hypnotherapy, tarot readings, meditation sessions, and even belly dancing classes!
Traveling with kids? Drop off children ages 5 to 12 for a few hours of FREE childcare in the Planet Trekkers kids’ club with the purchase of any spa service 50 minutes or longer!
Joya Spa
Worth Wishing For What was my wish? To relax and connect with my husband, forgetting about our stresses and responsibilities for a little while. The Intercontinental Montelucia Resort & Spa certainly made that wish come true. It would have been nice to have time to lounge by the main Kasbah Pool, take a spin on the rentable bicycles, and hike Camelback Mountain. But our parental duties called. Maybe next time we visit this resort we’ll bring the kids. Then again…maybe not!
Where do you wish to go for a romantic getaway? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
Located on one of the most spectacular spots of real estate in the world, everything at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona seems to have been created to allow the scenic landscape take center stage.
Sedona’s famed Enchantment Resort
An Enchanting Welcome The minute we arrived at Enchantment, someone was there with a warm welcome to walk us to check-in. There was no ornate, grand entrance to the hotel’s lobby. Instead, natural elements like stonework, vibrant green vines, colorful flowers, and cyprus trees led to an unobtrusive stucco building. The children were greeted with a gift bag filled with a stuffed toy coyote and a coloring or puzzle book. You can warm up by the fire in over-sized leather chairs in the lounge here before dinner or duck into the game room to watch television or play board games with the kids.
Entrance to the Enchantment Resort lobby
Boynton Canyon Hiking Trails One of my favorite memories from this trip was hiking the Vista Trail with just my little girl, Karissa. We paused to stare at tiny wildflowers, note the strange purplish hue of the prickly pear cactus fruits, and guess where our room was from where we stood on the trail. Karissa kept asking if we could take Sedona home with us. When I asked her what she meant, she said, “I want to keep it and put it in our back yard because it’s soooo pretty here!”
There are several hiking trails accessible from Enchantment. Two of Sedona’s most beloved trails are located just behind Mii amo Spa. Head to the left for Boynton Canyon Trail, which is 2.4 miles each way. Go to the right to hike Vista Trail up to Kachina Woman rock formation, which stands guard over one of Sedona’s famous energy vortexes. This hike should take about 20 minutes up and 15 minutes down, unless you are hiking with a five-year-old, then it takes longer! Both were too rigorous for my two-and-a-half-year-old to hike for any distance.
My daughter beaming with pride at the top of Vista Trail below Kachina Woman rock formation
Camp Coyote Our daughter begged to go back to Camp Coyoteafter her half-day adventure here. This kids’ camp is for children ages four to 12. Choose from half-day or full-day camps plus summer evening camps. The camp is renowned for incorporating its natural surroundings and the Native American heritage of the area into its activities. Campers might take guided nature walks where they learn about Boynton Canyon’s plants, insects, mule and white-tailed deer, jackrabbits, and other inhabitants. Or they might do sand painting, weave dream catchers or design arrowhead necklaces. Standard kids’ camp fun is available too in the form of trucks, toys, and craft projects.
Camp Coyote
Mii amo Spa This spa is located on the same property as Enchantment Resort and is open to Enchantment guests but is also a destination spa with guest rooms of its own. From sunrise stretches to medicine walks, aqua aerobics, and cooking demonstrations…activities and lectures abound at Mii amo. I didn’t get a chance to try any of these out, but I was able to indulge in a massage at this world-renowned spa. The facilities are nearly as stunning as the setting. After my treatment I took a dip in the indoor pool with its soothing fountains. Then I relaxed in the outdoor hot tub while staring at the breathtaking view of Boynton Canyon, overwhelmed with a feeling of gratitude to experience such beauty.
Indoor and outdoor pools with a spectacular view at Mii amo Spa
Dining Options Two of the onsite restaurants feature expansive windows to allow diners to gape at the gorgeous red rocks in which the resort is nestled. One of the most upscale dining options in all of Sedona is located here, Yavapai Restaurant, which offers 180-degree views of Boynton Canyon.
We had dinner one night at Tii Gavo, the more casual dining option at Enchantment. With its candlelight and swanky bar-like atmosphere, this would make a lovely date night option. However, eating here with our noisy young children was like leading a marching band blaring through a church as my husband and I (unsuccessfully) attempted to keep our offspring from annoying the other diners. The mushroom empanadas appetizer was the star of the meal with its earthy mushrooms, flaky crust, and tasty tomatillo sauce.
Mushroom Empanada at Tii Gavo
A third restaurant is available at neighboring Mii amo Spa. Since the spa is for guests 16 and older, don’t plan to bring little kiddies here to eat. Before my spa treatment I enjoyed a quiet solo lunch at Mii amo Cafe of miso soup and a salmon Caesar salad. Everything was fresh, light, and delicious -the picture-perfect spa cuisine.
Each morning, a charming bucket of orange juice and a USA Today is delivered to resort guests. We brought a few breakfast items with us and supplemented them with coffee made in-room and a couple of room service items, which saved on time and money. Try the homemade granola – it’s heavenly!
Morning delivery of orange juice and the paper
Accommodations Guest rooms are designed for comfort at Enchantment. If you are traveling with children and can afford a glorious upgrade, I suggest booking a casita. Our one-bedroom casita was decked out with a patio and outdoor barbecue plus my kids’ favorite, a gas-powered fireplace around which we warmed our tootsies after chilly fall hikes.
The eat-in kitchen featured a stove, microwave, coffee maker, refrigerator, pots, pans, dishes, eating utensils, and even a toaster. The spacious family room was so large and comfy; it felt more like a home than a hotel. The Murphy bed was more restful than a sofa pull-out and took up no space when stowed away. The bedroom had two queen-sized beds and a second television plus its own bathroom.
My kids warming up by our in-room fireplace
So, Is It Worth the Splurge? Although there are more affordable accommodation options in Sedona, I think Enchantment Resort is worth a splurge. My husband announced during our stay, “I never want to leave here.” I asked him why and he said, “Because it’s beautiful and there’s a fireplace and even the soap smells good. Seriously, there are no worries here.” (The soap, by the way, was made with olive oil and it did smell really, really good!)
This is the most upscale resort in Sedona. Could you stay somewhere for less money? Yes. But you come to Sedona to stand in awe of something bigger than yourself, to breathe in fresh air, listen to the sounds of gravel crunching beneath your feet, climb to the top of something majestic, and forget about your inbox, laundry, and to-do list for awhile. Staying at Enchantment submerses you in all that beauty and relaxation. Isn’t that the point?
What resort do you think is worth the splurge? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
A Note from The Travel Mama: The Enchantment Resort provided my family with complimentary accommodations, our dinner at Tii Gavo, and my spa treatment. I always provide my honest opinion, no matter who’s footing the bill.
Think the days of luxury traveling are over once you have kids? Not even. Here are a five of my favorite luxury resorts for family escapes ideal for even the most discerning little travelers. Mom and Dad might even have fun too!
Curtain Bluff Antigua, West Indies A classic Caribbean resort, Curtain Bluff boasts that it “works” for the entire family, and third generations of families (a.k.a. repeaters) who return year after year would agree. As an all-inclusive resort, you and your kids will enjoy a myriad of activities including sailing Hobie Cats and windsurfers, diving, water-skiing, snorkeling and fishing trips, and tennis. The convenience factor: meals, drinks and activities are all-included. While Mom and Dad enjoy the signature Caribbean Green Coffee body wraps at the Seaside Spa, your kids can also have treatments tailored to young adults.
The Resort at Paws UpMontana,USA How cool would it be to have your own personal Santa? You can at this luxury resort and ranch when you book the “Last Best Christmas Vacation” package which also includes a ginger bread house building contest and more. The resort is a winter wonderland offering cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice skating, tubing and snow shoeing. This all-season resort also offers a Kids Corps of Discovery Program plus Spa Town for the big kids, where you can relax in the great outdoors. The activities are endless year-round.
Hotel Guanahani & Spa St. Barthélemy, French West Indies The glamour of St. Barts in the French West Indies is not just for stylish adults. Hotel Guanahani is the largest resort on St. Barts located on two beaches ideal for families. Book the Family Suite with private pools or the Butler Suites for the ultimate in pampering. There’s an array of activities for everyone including sailing, scuba diving, horseback riding and tennis. While the kids participate in the Junior’s programs and the daily Kindergarten, parents can relax on the beach, enjoy duty-free shopping in Gustavia or spend the day at the award-winning Spa by Clarins.
The Ritz-Carlton, NaplesFlorida, USA This luxury resort is a fantastic choice for families seeking a sophisticated yet fun beach resort. In addition to the fabulous views of the Gulf of Mexico and miles of immaculate beaches and excellent dining, this resort also has a fabulous learning program for your little marine biologists. Nature’s Wonders offers daily interactive discovery programs for children ages five and older. Watch Discovery and National Geographic programs with the whole family in the Nature Vision Theater. Book the Resort Reconnect package to decompress in luxury with family and friends.
Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya Mexico This five diamond resortoffers endless stretches of beaches, calm sea, three pools, exotic flora and fauna and their own Little Fans Club, with a host of activities for children aged four to 12 years. Parents, while the kids are busy, hit the Spa where you will enjoy the VIP couples suite for an Itzam (Earth) Experience. Then visit the Mayan Temazcal for a Shaman Blessing. Book the Family Travel package in the Two-Bedroom Grand Selva Family Suite offering personal butler services to ensure Mom and Dad don’t lift a finger.
Which of these resorts appeals to you most? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
Tiffany Dowd is a regional hotel inspector for a leading luxury travel publication based in Boston, MA. For more luxury travel tips, read Tiffany Travels or follow @LuxeTiffany on Twitter.
Whether splashing in the waves, searching for fishies while snorkeling, or sipping a tropical drink from a lounge chair, nothing says “family vacation” more than a day at the beach! I asked some of the best family travel bloggers to tell us about their all-time favorite family-friendly beach hotels. From where to take a dip with babies and toddlers to the best beach hotel for active families, there’s sure to be something on this list that will appeal to you. As a beach-loving mama, I couldn’t resist including a favorite of mine too!
Last summer I posted a story about the 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools. There must be a lot of water lovers out there because this is consistently one of the most popular posts on Travel Mamas. Grab your sunscreen and sand toys - this year we’re headed to the beach!
Hilton Waikoloa Village on The Big Island, Hawaii
(Photo courtesy of Sharlene Earnshaw)
Most Superb Slice of Tropical Paradise by Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo
With its lagoon surrounded by white sandy beaches, three unique pools, relaxing spa, two championship golf courses, and dolphin program, it’s hard to beat the family friendly fun at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. Where else can you snorkel with sea turtles, slide down a 175-foot waterslide, take a luxurious coconut milk bath, and chow down Polynesian style at a luau without ever leaving the resort? Kids will love the crafts, games, and water activities they can participate in at the resort’s Camp Menehune, while parents experience some child-free time participating in one of Waikoloa Village’s many activities or simply savoring some peace and quiet at the adults-only pool. With so much to do at this tropical island resort, your family may never want to board that airplane home!
Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado, California
(Photo courtesy of Hotel Del Coronado)
Grande Dame of Beach Hotels by Colleen Lanin, a.k.a. The Travel Mama Lucky for me, the Hotel Del Coronadoon the Coronado peninsula across from downtown San Diego is a mere half-hour drive from my home. A tourist attraction in its own right, many people stop by “The Del” (as it is known to locals) just for the day to eat its famed brunch, enjoy its immaculate stretch of beach, peruse its fancy-schmancy shops, or snack on fresh crab legs and sip martinis in its swanky seaside bar. Adding to its old-school charm and glamorous vibe, many movies have been filmed here, most notably Some Like It Hot starring Marilyn Monroe. This is a favorite place to bring out-of-towners; its stunning beach and turreted architecture always elicit oohs and ahhs. After years of daydreaming of spending the night at this grande dame of beach hotels, my husband, then baby daughter, and I checked in for a long weekend. It lived up to all of my inflated expectations…and then some! During the summer, the resort offers family-friendly activities like S’mores Night on the beach and Flick N’ Float movie night, where kids can watch a film from an inner tube. For the holidays visitors and guests alike can take a spin on its oceanside outdoor ice skating rink!
Holiday Inn on the Beach Destin, Florida
(Photo courtesy of Jennifer Close)
Most Affordable Beach Hotel for Busy Kidsby Jennifer Close, Two Kids and a Map Holiday Inn on the Beach Destin, Florida is perfect for parents on a budget who are looking for activities to keep their kids busy. The hotel’s KidSuites come complete with bunk beds, a separate area for mom and dad, and video games. The Buccaneer Program for kids runs through the summer and includes carnivals, treasure hunts, Parent’s Night Out and much more. There is a DVD rental box for watching movies in your room but there is plenty to keep the kids busy in the clubhouse area. Besides sitting on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, there are two pools (one of which is inside for those rainy afternoons). The hotel is also very close to many family friendly activities like Big Kahuna’s Waterpark, miniature golf, and tasty restaurants.
Club Med Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico
(Photo courtesy of Corinne McDermott)
Best Beach Resort for Babies & Toddlers by Corinne McDermott, Have Baby Will Travel
Sapphire-blue Pacific water meets the golden sand of Playa Quieta to create a wonderful setting for a fabulous resort that welcomes every member of your family. Club Med Ixtapa Pacific offers spacious, renovated rooms, lush gardens and grounds, two great pools, plus all the usual Club Medactivities. There’s the Mini Club for kids four and up, the Petit Club for guests aged two to four, and the Baby Club, for babies as young as four months. You’ll also find baby-welcoming amenities like cribs, high chairs, baby baths, baby food and snacks, as well as several stations for preparing baby’s food and bottles.
Viva Cala Mesquida Resort on Mallorca, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Andrea Fellman)
Best Quiet Island Beach Retreatby Andrea Fellman, Have Kids Still Travel Mallorca is just off the coast of Spain and is apart of the Baleric Islands. It is the hottest European vacation destination and for good reason, it has over 200 beaches! Unlike the neighboring party island of Ibiza, Mallorca is a great family destination. Viva Cala Mesquida Resort is a perfect choice for a private family getaway. The hotel even has a mascot, Bufo the Galactic Super Hero! Bufo entertains the kids nightly at the Bufo Disco. Plus, the Bufo Mini Club offers childcare daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. The resort has two sandy playgrounds complete with all of the buckets, shovels, and toys your kids will need. The kiddie pool has a few different slides and is shallow enough to splash around with young ones. The beach is only a short walk down a paved path and it is set in a very private and secluded bay.
Forte dei Marmi, Italy
(Photo courtesy of Amie O’Shaunessy)
Beachy Destination Most Worthy of the Journeyby Amie O’Shaunessy, Ciao Bambino Most people think of Cinque Terre or Positano when they dream about the coast in Italy. Both are incredible and must be experienced. For families with young children, however, these destinations can be tough with rugged terrain and limited open space for running around. Not so in Forte dei Marmi. A plethora of beach clubs offering chairs, umbrellas, and fresh meals plus calm waters and a flat sandy beach make this venue a joy for a family beach holiday, Italian style. We recommend the California Park Hotel in Forte dei Marmi on Ciao Bambino. This hotel is just blocks from the beach with friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere for all.
Azul Beach in Riviera Maya, Mexico
(Photo courtesy of Kara Williams)
Top Pick for Pampering by Kara Williams, The Vacation Gals
I have at least a half-dozen favorite family-friendly beach hotels, but one that really stands out among my frequent tropical vacations in Mexico is the all-inclusive 98-room Azul Beach. Kids are greeted with smoothies (parents get champagne!). The resort partners with Fisher-Price, so you can borrow toys for use during your stay. Also on complimentary loan for little ones: a baby monitor, stroller, bathtub, bottle warmer and more. For older children (ages four to 12), every day brings fun activities at the Azulitos Kids’ Club. My family loved lolling on one of the comfortable beach beds just steps from the ocean, especially because we enjoyed the services of our very own beach butler! He brought us cold drinks and offered snacks, and when we left our bed to frolic in the mellow waves, he’d fluff the pillows, tidy it up, and leave our kids towel animals! If Azul Beach is booked when you’re looking to travel consider the sister property, Azul Sensatori, just down the beach. This is a newer and bigger property, with 438 spacious rooms, including guaranteed family connecting suites. Both Azul properties are near Puerto Morelos, on the Riviera Maya, a short 20-minute drive from Cancun International Airport.
The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida
(Photo courtesy of The Breakers)
Awesome Active Family’s Resort by Amie O’Shaunessy, Ciao Bambino I get restless on the beach so it’s always important for us to find beach hotels that have plenty of alternate activities. The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida fits this requirement in every way. Golf, tennis, a world-class spa, boating, croquet, shopping, excellent restaurants…check! They also offer top-notch children’s amenities including a kids’ club for ages three to twelve and an enormous game room. There’s no getting bored at this hotel, even in bad weather. Top it off, the service is exceptional and there is nothing that staff won’t do to ensure every age is happy and relaxed while on vacation. Read our complete family-friendly hotel review about The Breakers for more information and offers.
Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club on Kauai, Hawaii
(Photo courtesy of Glennia Campbell)
Beach Resort Most Deserving of Multiple Visitsby Glennia Campbell, The Silent I
My favorite beach hotel in the world is the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club on Kalapaki Bay in Kauai, Hawaii. My family likes to try a new place for every vacation, but Kauai Marriott is one of the few places we go back to repeatedly. The hotel is situated on a strip of golden sand overlooking peaceful Kalapaki Bay. The beach is usually far less crowded than Poipu on Kauai’s South Shore. If you don’t want to get sand in your suit, there is a narrow strip of grass shaded by palm trees where you can pull up a deck chair and read while the kids frolic in the gentle waves. The last time we visited, our nine-year-old took a surfing lesson right in front of the hotel while we sat and watched from the patio at Duke’s Canoe Club, tropical drinks in hand. The hotel also boasts the largest single-level pool in the state. We love the Kauai Marriott so much, we bought a half timeshare so we can go back “home” every other year.
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages in New Port Beach, California
(Photo from www.CrystalCoveBeachCottages.com)
Coziest Seaside Cottagesby Debbie Dubrow, Delicious Baby Crystal Cove Beach Cottages in Newport Beach, California are the perfect place to recuperate after a few days at Disneyland. These restored historic cottages, located in a secluded cove, aren’t fancy, but you and the kids will be outdoors enjoying the sunshine, the sand, and the tide pools all day anyway. Each cottage has a microwave and refrigerator, so while you won’t be doing any heavy cooking, you can certainly pour yourself a cold glass of wine after the kids are in bed. Reservations can be made up to seven months in advance and the cottages fill up quickly.
Did your favorite make the list? Leave comment below about which beach hotel you like most and why!
Learn more about these fabulous family travel bloggers:
Glennia Campbell (Beach Resort Most Deserving of Multiple Visits) writes and publishes the family travel blog, The Silent I, chronicling her family’s adventures around the world. The three of them have traveled to 25 countries, kid in tow, including Greenland, Libya, and the Galapagos. She is co-founder of MOMocrats, a political collaborative blog for progressive moms, and is a contributor to the Korean-American parenting blog, Kimchi Mamas.
Jennifer Close (Most Affordable Beach Hotel for Busy Kids) loves to explore and take new adventures with her family. She writes about her adventures on her family travel blog, Two Kids and a Map, and writes about exploring Pensacola at Pensacola with Kids.
Debbie Dubrow (Coziest Seaside Cottages) blogs about traveling with her three kids (ages five, three and one) at DeliciousBaby.com. Check out her kid friendly city guides for ideas about things to do with kids in cities around the world. Follow her on Twitter at @deliciousbaby.
Sharlene Earnshaw (Most Superb Slice of Tropical Paradise) is the Blog Editor in Chief for Trekaroo, and mother to two travel addicted toddlers. If you can’t find them enjoying the day at one of California’s spectacular beaches, then they are probably off discovering something new on one of their many travel adventures. Follow her on Twitter at @doubleadventure.
Andrea Fellman (Best Quiet Island Beach Retreat) is a mom who hasn’t lost her style to Motherhood. She is the creator of Savvy Sassy Moms an online destination and information source for everything fun and fashionable for moms, babies and kids. She also writes about her passion for traveling with kids over at Have Kids Still Travel.
Colleen Lanin (Grande Dame of Beach Hotels) Hey! That’s me! I’m the creator/editor of TravelMamas.com, a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in Babytalk Magazine (sister publication of Parenting), San Diego Family Magazine, and 101 Things To Do San Diego. Want to know more about me? Check out About Travel Mamas. It would be sweet if you would follow me on Twitter too at @TravelMamas.
Corinne McDermott (Best Beach Resort for Babies & Toddlers) is the mother of two and the founder of Have Baby Will Travel: Your Online Guide for Travel with Babies and Small Children. She’s appeared on Canada’s top-rated talk and morning shows delivering tips on travel with tots, and her writing’s been featured in such magazines as Canadian Family and Oh Baby magazines. Corinne contributes a monthly column to parent resource sites across North America as a Family Travel Expert. Connect with Corinne online at Have Baby Will Travel or on Twitter at @hvbabywilltrvl.
Amie O’Shaughnessy (Awesome Active Family’s Beach Resort & Beachy Destination Most Worthy of the Journey) is a mom with perpetual wanderlust and the editor of Ciao Bambino, a worldwide family travel resource providing the insight and information parents need to plan everything from weekend getaways to multi-week vacations with kids. Ciao Bambino makes it easy for families to uncover the best of where to go, where to stay, and what to do once they get there.
Kara Williams (Top Pick for Pampering) is a freelance writer who co-owns TheVacationGals.com, where she and her buddies cover all things related to family travel, girlfriend getaways and romantic escapes. She makes her home in the Colorado Rockies with her husband and two school-age children. Follow her on Twitter at @karasw.
From where to enjoy a night out on the town to why you should step outside your comfort zone but avoid tequila shots…here are my seven tips for ensuring you have a fabulous girlfriend getaway in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!
As “The Travel Mama” it seems like I am always on the go with my children. Grown-up getaways, on the other hand, are a bit of a rarity. So, it was quite the treat when I was invited by The Villa Group and Discount Mexico Vacation Hotels for a long weekend away in Cabo San Lucas with four other mom bloggers: Andrea Fellman of Savvy Sassy Moms, Laurie Cooper a.k.a. Clueless Mama of Guessing All the Way, Heather Spohr of The Spohrs Are Multiplying, and Mindy Roberts of The Mommy Blog.
Mindy (The Mommy Blog), Laurie (Clueless Mama), Andrea Fellman (Savvy Sassy Moms), Heather (The Spohrs Are Multiplying), and Me (The Travel Mama)
1. Take to the Water
Cabo San Lucas is a water-lover’s paradise. Beach activities abound, like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, glass bottom boat tours, and of course, Cabo’s world famous deep sea fishing. The last time I went to Cabo, I stayed with my family on the Pacific Ocean side, which meant the waves and undertow were too dangerous for these activities. Who wants to pile into a rental car or cab every time you want to have some beach fun? This time I stayed at Villa del Palmar, one of The Villa Group’s three Los Cabos locations, situated along a gorgeous stretch of sand before the more tranquil Sea of Cortez.
Even someone like me who tends to get seasick can enjoy a tour of Cabo’s famous Los Arcos sea rock formations aboard a catamaran. Our two-and-a-half-hour sunset cruise took us from the Sea of Cortez into the rolling Pacific Ocean and back again. A dinner of grilled chicken and steak with rice, beans, chips, guacamole, and salsa was served. And, of course, there were free-flowing margaritas, cervesas, and other bebidas. When the boat’s crew gathered the passengers for a dance party, I was wary. I was ready for solid land and, well, it seemed a bit cheesy. First a handful of men were selected to participate in a dance contest of sorts. These five good sports bopped, gyrated, and generally embarrassed their wives and children. It got everyone laughing and ready to join in some line dancing. It wound up being a whole lot of fun!
The famous Los Arcos in Cabo San Lucas
2. Get Pampered
No girlfriend getaway is complete without a trip to the spa. The Desert Spa at Villa del Arco (a Villa Group property next door to our resort) was divine. I was treated to an 80-minute massage. Often when I get a spa treatment I feel like I have to hurry up and relax…like at any minute the service will be over and I’ll be scooted out of there. But this massage went on and on. Just when I’d think my time was up, my therapist would start massaging another limb. My attendant did not waste time sticking my hands in warm mitts (not needed!), spraying aromatherapy mist into the air (I can do without) or leaving me lying there “to relax” while disappearing to some unknown place. No, this treatment was pure, all-out kneading, rubbing, and pampering. Mmm…heaven!
Desert Spa at Villa del Arco
3. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
Vacations are a great time to set your adventurous alter ego free and try something you might never do at home. For me on this trip, that meant parasailing with Andrea (Savvy Sassy Moms) and Laurie (Clueless Mama). While we waited for our boat for ten Mexican minutes (a half hour), I started to get un poquito nervous about our impending flight, so I ran off to the bar to grab liquid courage (white wine for Andrea and me and a Miami Vice for Laurie).
You know you’re in Mexico when you must fling yourself onto the boat when it swooshes closer to you with one big crashing wave. No docks for us…just grab hold and throw yourself in (whilst a boatman holds your beverage). In mere moments we pulled up beside another boat into which we climbed, all the while trying not fall into the rollicking sea. I didn’t have time to take a sip of wine before the co-captain pulled me over and tried to get me to slip into the parasail’s safety harness. I said, “I’m not ready! I’m not ready!” and insisted Andrea go first (who has experience bungee jumping and skydiving and therefore had no trepidation about a measly parasail flight).
Laurie was another story. She and I decided we would fly together in a tandem carrier but she chickened out and removed the harness when it was our turn to go. Laurie doesn’t normally even ride roller coasters, so this was very far out of her comfort zone. The day before, Laurie had told me how she almost got off the airplane in her hometown of Denver, so nervous was she about leaving her kids and the familiarity of home behind. I reminded her of this and said, “What if you had gotten off that plane? Aren’t you glad you’re here? If you don’t go, you’ll regret it.” We guzzled down our drinks and before we knew it, we were soaring through the air.
While Laurie speculated at the likelihood of our survival if the ropes tethering us 600 feet in the sky suddenly broke, we giggled nervously and tried to soak up the beauty of Cabo below us. Doing something scary together creates a unique bond between people, especially new friends. It was by far my favorite, scariest, silliest, most intense memory of the trip.
Parasailing with Laurie (Clueless Mama)
4. Take the Vacation Ownership Tour
All five of us mom bloggers went on the vacation ownership tour as part of our experience at the resort. Afterwards, as special guests of Villa Group, we were videotaped giving feedback about the tour, our experience at the resort, and Cabo overall. Our tour was similar to what regular vacationers would experience. It started with a delicious, complimentary breakfast buffet with bacon aplenty, chilaquiles (a Mexican breakfast dish), fresh omelet bar, pastries and more. Then we walked through a couple of sample condominium options. Finally, we sat down with a sales person (well, ours was the Vice President of Villa Group) and discussed options and pricing over champagne cocktails. It was all rather low-key and painless…fun even.
Discount Mexico Vacation Hotels offers a family of four a four-day vacation for $399 in exchange for going on an hour and a half tour. An affordable, upscale vacation like this is certainly a fair trade-off for such a brief interruption in a long weekend getaway. I say, go for it!
My one-bedroom suite at Villa del Palmar
5. Don’t Do Tequila Shots
I certainly like to drink my share of wine, margaritas, and pina coladas. But I draw the line at tequila shots, or shots of any kind really. I stopped doing shots in college and for good reason.
At a recent neighborhood get together someone (my husband, surely) joked about breaking out the tequila to which one of my friends said, “No good ever comes from tequila shots. No one ever says, The night started out with tequila shots and ended wonderfully.” It’s true. Most stories that start with tequila shots end with somebody throwing up, fighting, falling down, passing out, or some combination thereof.
This is why when my fellow mom bloggers started drinking tequila shots, I declined. I gave away my shots to one of my bloggy friends (who shall remain nameless) who wound up taking an early cab home (accompanied by a non-drinking friend) when she started to feel woozy. My advice? If you decide to drink, alternate alcoholic beverages with glasses of water and steer clear of the shots. You’ll thank me the next day!
Sunset cruise dance party
6. Enjoy a Night Out On the Town
Even if there are a lot of entertainment and dining options at your resort you should venture downtown for at least one night of frivolity. The Villa Group resorts offered several restaurants to choose from at its Cabo locations, including a sushi restaurant, fine-dining establishment, and standard Mexican fare as well as themed party nights plus bars where you can enjoy cocktails while taking in a stunning view of the ocean.
Downtown Cabo San Lucas offers numerous modern restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. After a dinner and live music at Desperados Restaurant & Cantina, we ventured out for a few rounds of Karaoke.
Finally, it was time for what I’d been waiting for…dancing! The last time I went dancing (not including weddings) was the last time I visited Cabo…three and a half years ago. We went to the hip Nowhere Bar to boogie for a bit with beautiful people. I was pretty excited to be out of the house, with adults, soaking up some nightlife when all too abruptly my friends announced it was time to head back to our resort. I wasn’t ready to go and (unsuccessfully) attempted to convince the girls to stay out longer. Ahh…well…I guess I’ll have to go back to Los Cabos again so I can get my groove on!
Villa del Palmar’s gorgeous pool with waterfalls and whale-shaped waterslide
7. Soak it Up
One of the best things about a little reprieve from the kiddos is taking some time to yourself to simply relax. Just sitting by the ocean listening to the waves crash on the shore as I read magazines, uninterrupted, felt like a splendid luxury.
On the last day of the trip, I choked up a bit at the airport before flying home when I told Laurie (Clueless Mama) how much I missed my kids. It’s good to miss them. It reminds me to appreciate the little moments I often take for granted…the sounds of my children giggling in our backyard as I cook dinner…the way my little boy hides under the pillow in his crib playing peek-a-boo and refusing to get up from his nap…the way my daughter bursts into my room every morning, too early but full of smiles and bouncy energy, ready to start the day.
I think it’s important to take notice of those moments AND to appreciate a break from the ordinary because all too soon…I’m back to the daily grind and daydreaming of a moment of peace during which I could do something as languorous and unlikely as flipping through a magazine without children clamoring at my side with requests for more juice and pleas for one more episode of Dora the Explorer.
Want to learn more? Check out the Villa Group multimedia player below to explore locations, pricing, and more. Click on the ”video” button to see my fellow mom bloggers and me living it up in Cabo and to watch interviews about our experience.
What are your tips for a girlfriend getaway or a trip to Los Cabos? Please leave a comment below!
A note from the Travel Mama: My flight, accommodations, and many other expenses for this trip were paid by The Villa Group and Discount Mexico Vacation Hotels. All of the opinions expressed in this post are my own. I would never recommend anything I don’t truly like and believe in!
To celebrate the one-year anniversary of TravelMamas.com, one lucky family will win a vacation package to San Antonio, Texas at the world’s largest JW Marriott Resort! Because the point of a vacation is to relax and have fun, the two-night package at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa includes special goodies to pamper every member of the family. Approximate retail prize value is $1,000. Read on to learn how to enter!
Earlier this month my family spent a few days at this beautiful resort. All vacations hold a special place in my heart for the moments of togetherness and wonder that can only be felt through travel. However, some destinations stamp a bigger imprint on my heart. It is the memories garnered on these trips that lull me to sleep on restless nights. The world is big with many new places to explore so I seldom like to return somewhere I have already been. However, I am already dreaming of a return trip to San Antonio, and to this JW Marriott in particular.
Lantana Spa Let’s start with something all moms deserve…a little relaxation at the spa! After a dip in the whirlpool, I received a Saving Face facial. This included a gentle enzyme peel and healing mask as well as an upper body massage and nourishing hand treatment. If you can’t decide between a facial and a massage, this is a good choice because it felt like both rolled into one heavenly treatment.
Next, I had a Restorative Organic Massage with a scalp massage, hot towel massage and foot treatment. While this allowed me to slip into that lovely state of spa-induced half-awake, half-comatose Zen; it felt more like a body treatment than a massage to me. With eight other massages to choose from, next time I think I’d opt for the Citrus and Sunflower Organic Massage, which combines essential oils with a traditional full body massage.
Rather than hurrying back right away, I took advantage of this rare bit of me-time by showering and readying at the spa. They had everything I might need right there from lotions, soaps, and mouthwash to disposable razors. I was a happy bowl of pudding by the time I left to rejoin my family!
The Lantana Spa suggests you arrive at least a half hour early to check-in and take advantage of the spa’s hot tub, sauna, and steam room. I suggest you go even earlier; how often do you get to relax and have some time to yourself, free of a kid pulling at your pants leg or complaining that their brother got the bigger half of the cookie?
TPC PGA-Tour Golf Course I have only golfed once in my life but my husband, Phil, was thrilled to have a chance to golf at a TPC PGA-Tour golf course. He was given the choice of two courses, one of which was regarded as easier and therefore more appropriate for the non-professional. Phil is a pretty decent golfer so he chose the more difficult course.
A view of one of the resort’s two TPC PGA-Tour golf courses from the adult infinity pool
Here’s what Travel Daddy Phil had to say, “Hold on to your golf pants…when they say the course is tough, they mean it! Greg Norman designed the course and it was definitely intended to challenge. The practice areas and course were in perfect condition and it was just gorgeous. I was supposed to play with a couple other guys but the impending rain kept them off the tee. Although I played by myself, I had a great time, and, I didn’t have to tell anyone what my score was!”
Range Riders Kids Camp If you will be staying here during a busy time, like spring break or summer, be sure to sign up for Range Riders before you leave home so you can snag a spot in this delightful camp for kids.
Upon check-in at the hotel my daughter, Karissa, received a treasure map that led us to Range Riders. Following the map’s path was a wonderful way to get her excited for her adventure away from mom and dad!
An enthusiastic Karissa following her treasure map to Range Riders
During warm weather, kids are asked to bring a bathing suit and sunscreen for a splashing good time with the counselors and other campers at the kiddy pool. No need to worry about safety either since kid-sized life vests help keep children safe poolside.
I stopped by a couple of hours into Karissa’s Ranger Riders experience and she begged me to let her stay longer (which I happily obliged). She had a busy day, filled with lunch, crafts, and make-believe play. She had a lot to show for her efforts too. A photo of Karissa standing by the Range Riders’ life-size plastic bull was placed into a frame that she painted herself and decorated with stick-on jewels and puffy letters to spell-out her name. She also drew a stick-figure portrait of her family with special markers on a souvenir Range Riders t-shirt.
Due to my daughter’s age (we celebrated her fifth birthday at the resort), this was Karissa’s first experience at a hotel kids’ camp. Many resort kids’ camps start at the age of five, but this program allowed kids aged four and older who are potty-trained.
The Range Riders Kids Camp
When I asked Karissa if she liked Range Riders, she said, “I loved it!” What did she think was the best part? “My teachers, Miss Perry and Miss Courtney!” I can’t think of a better endorsement than that.
River Bluff Water Experience The best part of our stay at JW Marriott San Antonio was the time we spent together at the resort’s River Bluff Water Experience.
We could’ve spent all day just splashing in the little kids’ zero-entry pool, with its fountains, three small slides, but there were too many other watery diversions to enjoy!
The kids’ pool and splash area with the Water Tower in the background
My husband and I took turns climbing the Water Tower to zoom down the Acequia Tube Slides with our daughter in a double inner tube. There are two exhilarating options – one slide that is mostly open-air and one mostly-enclosed tube slide. Karissa didn’t want to brave the latter, so I went it alone (for research purposes, of course!).
Not only was the River Bluff Water Experience a whole lot of fun, but also it was beautiful. The 1,200-foot lazy river was lined with Cypress trees and walls made from natural rock. I almost felt as if I were floating down a real river through the Texas Hill Country!
For some mischievous fun, kids can spin and pump various mechanical doo-dads to spray other guests afloat on the river. This may have been my two-year-old son Leo’s favorite part! He giggled and stomped his feet as he watched in awe when his actions from above made the water shoot out below.
Leo spinning a pump to spray water onto the lazy river
Restaurants and More For dining, there were six restaurants plus room service to choose from. The fanciest was 18 Oaks, where I dined on a sublime steak. The most unique eatery was the High Velocity Sports Barwith its winding wall of television screens. For a quick breakfast or snack option, there was also a Starbucks onsite.
The winding wall of television screens for the ultimate in sports viewing at High Velocity
A favorite memory from this trip was listening to live country music echoing through the resort’s two-story lobby as my kids joyously danced about. The lobby contains a bar on the lower level with billiards plus checkers and chess tables inviting guests to linger in this expansive lounge.
A Truly Special Place While San Antonio offered plenty to dooutside the resort, the JW Marriott San Antonio was the kind of place you don’t want to leave. Maybe it was because it was a new resort, but the staff exuded a warmth and excitement that is rarely found. You could easily spend a whole week just enjoying the resort’s amenities and never get bored.
So what are you waiting for? Enter to win a family getaway at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country!
Travel Mamas Anniversary Vacation Package Giveaway The winning family will receive:
- Two Nights Accommodations in a Deluxe Room at JW Marriott San Antonio
- Breakfast for a Family of Four Daily
- One 50-Minute Spa Treatment at the Resort’s Lantana Spa
- One Round of Golf at One of Two Onsite TPC PGA-Tour Golf Courses
- Four Hours at the JW Marriott’s Range Riders Kids Club
THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED. THE WINNER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED BY EMAIL. IF THE WINNER DOES NOT CLAIM THE PRIZE WITHIN ONE WEEK, ANOTHER WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN AT RANDOM. THANK YOU FOR ENTERING! This contest ends at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on Saturday, April 3, 2010. The winner will be selected at random using Random.org and will be notified by email. If no response is received within one week, the first winner will forfeit the prize and another entrant will be selected. JW Marriott will provide the prize to the winner. The value of the package is $1,000. The prize is valid for one year and must be redeemed by March 31, 2011. The prize information must be presented when making reservations. There is no cash value. There are no substitutions in the prize package items. The prize is not transferable.
Here’s how to enter:
You can enter a maximum of four times, using each method of entry once. The first option is required for entry. For each bonus entry, you must add an additional, separate comment to this blog post.
REQUIRED ENTRY: Leave a comment belowabout which feature of JW Marriott San Antonio you would most like to experience and why. Please be specific! General comments will be disqualified.
I want to win a luxury vacation at Marriott’s NEW @JWSanAntonio to celebrate @TravelMamas 1st anniversary! http://bit.ly/9rYlN8
BONUS ENTRY:Become a Fan of Travel Mamas on Facebook. Then submit a comment on the Travel Mamas Fan Page wall stating why you deserve to win a getaway to JW Marriott San Antonio. Be sure to come back here and repeat your comment below!
A note from the Travel Mama: In preparation for this incredible giveaway, my family and I were hosted by the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spafor a three-night stay.
Who could use a little pampering and quality time with one of your best girlfriends? Me, me, I could! If a weekend away filled with shopping, a spa visit, and an interruption-free dinner in Los Angeles sounds like your cup of chai, check out the Mom’s Makeover Madness Sweepstakes sponsored by TMobile on DisneyFamily.com.
With onsite activities like an elaborate water park, miniature golf, and live audience-participation shows, the Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida is a destination unto itself or an affordable hotel option for families who want to take free shuttles to nearby Disney World theme parks and other attractions. I recently spent four nights at the Nick Hotel with my daughter (Karissa, almost five), son (Leo, almost two), and mom (Grandma Ellen, 65). Read on to learn how you can win a two-night stay and other Nick-style fun for a family of four at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort!
All of the rooms at the Nick Hotel are suites. (As a light-sleeper, all I can say is, Halleluiah!) We stayed in a two-bedroom KidSuite, with bunk beds in a character-themed room, a king-size bed in the master, and a pull-out queen sofa bed in the living area. There was also a kitchen area equipped with a small fridge, sink, microwave, and coffee maker – making simple breakfasts and snacks a snap. A suite allows for better sleep, and therefore less cranky pants and a happier vacation for all!
After a long day of air travel (with a screaming toddler) from San Diego, we wanted to take it easy our first full day at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort. However, the overcast weather did not cooperate with our plans to explore the on-site Lagoon Water Park and Pool. I worried there wouldn’t be enough to keep us occupied, but there was plenty for us to do!
First we played a couple rounds of free miniature golf. Even my little guy got in on the action!
After lunch and naps, we headed to The Mall. From restaurants to entertainment and shopping, you can find all sorts of indoor fun here.
First, we checked out Nickelodeon’s 4-D Theatre. We sported 3-D glasses to experience stuff “jumping” out at us from the movie screen. The fourth “D” came in the form of misted water, scents (think flowers), and rumbling seats. You can pay per flick, or for a little more, get a wristband for unlimited viewing throughout your stay. My daughter was scared by the first movie, Deep Sea, about ocean creatures but she stuck it out nonetheless. Her brother, on the other hand, started crying less than one minute into the film so I had to whisk him away. I took Karissa back in for a viewing of Nick Jr’s The Wonder Pets: Save the Sheep! This show did not require the glasses and was more her speed.
Next stop? The Kid’s Spa. Karissa chose sparkly blue from a rainbow of colors for her finger nails. She’s quite the girly girl and loved the attention from her sweet nail technician. The spa also offered temporary tattoos (for both boys and girls), hair braiding, and pedicures.
Minding the pretty nails, we headed for The Arcade, where there were games for little ones (virtual bowling and mini basketball) to teens (ski ball, Guitar Hero, and air hockey). The kids earned points while playing, and redeemed them for little trinkets and toys.
Before dinner, we attended Nick Live Goes Wild, a high-energy audience-participation game show at Studio Nick. The losing team’s dad got a cream pie in the face, while the winning team’s tween son got doused with slime (which, apparently, was a really cool thing for a boy that age)! Late night shows included Family Improv, Who Knows Best?, and Karaoke.
Nick After Dark was also located in The Mall for children ages five through twelve. Alas, my children were too young to participate but backstage passes to the Nick Studio and hands-on slime-making would be enough to keep most kids happy for an evening while mom and dad slip out for some grown-up fun.
There was so much to do- I couldn’t squeeze all of the information about the Nick Hotel into one story! Check back next week to read about character dining and the resort’s fabulous water park in Nickelodeon Suites Resort – Part 2.
Want in on the fun? Enter to win a two-night stay below orbook a two-bedroom KidSuite for just $99! That’s nearly 50 percent off the average standard rate! This awesome rate is being offered for a limited time to Travel Mamas readers only. The final date to book this deal has been extended to February 28, 2010. Learn more about this offer.
Enter to win a two-night stay in a two-bedroom KidSuite at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort! The winner will also be awarded one character meal (for two adults and two children), four 4-D Movie wristbands, 300 points for use at the arcade, and a gift basket of Nickelodeon goodies. Approximate value is $500. The contest ends on Saturday, March 6, 2010. The winner will be randomly selected using RANDOM.org and will be notified via email. If the prize is not claimed within one week, the winner will forfeit the prize and an alternative winner will be selected. Based on availability. Not valid during Holiday Weeks, Special Events and Expected Sell-Out Dates. Two Night Accommodations (Room and Tax) Resort Fee Not Included. THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. The winner will be announced on Travel Mamas on Monday, March 8, 2010.
You can enter a total of four times. To enter now:
1) Make a comment below about why you would like to have the “slime” of your life at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort. All generic comments like, “Thanks for the contest” or “I want to win” will not count as entries.
2) Tweet this contest! Copy and paste the following phrase into Twitter. Be sure to post another comment with a link to your tweet! I want to have the slime of my life with a FREE 2-night stay at @NickHotel on @TravelMamas http://bit.ly/dfvn7h
A note from The Travel Mama: The Nickelodeon Suites Resort invited my family and me to stay at their resort for three nights free-of-charge. We also received a free character breakfast. It was so much fun - we booked an extra night at a discounted rate.
Tomorrow my family is headed to the Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida. Mama’s happy when the kids are happy, so I know I’ll be happy here!
To prepare for our trip, I have been showing my almost five-year-old daughter, Karissa, around the Nick Hotel website. I’ve promised a trip to the Kid’s Spa to get her finger nails painted any color she wants. I’m sure the whole family will love the free live entertainment and shows like family improv and Karaoke. Karissa is beyond excited about a character breakfast with favorites like Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob SquarePants.
My daughter is most jazzed up about the gigantic water park filled with fountains and slides. It’s supposed to be a bit cloudy during our stay, but since the water is heated and she and her nearly two-year-old brother, Leo, adore anything to do with water, I’m sure we’ll be spending a lot of time poolside!
I first learned about this hotel when one of the travel industry experts I interviewed for my story on the 10 Best Family-Friendly Pools in the World, Theresa Jorgensen of SixSuitcaseTravel, recommended the Nickelodeon Suites Resort for its seven slides and flumes, and easy access zero-entry. A 400-gallon tank spills water on splashers throughout the day but the highlight is the daily sliming each afternoon.
Sound fun? You can go too! Check out this sweet deal just for Travel Mamas and Travel Daddies like you!
Exclusive offer for Travel Mamas readers: $99 rate at Nickelodeon Suites Resort
Limited time only! Book by February 19, 2010 – OFFER EXTENDED – Book by February 28, 2010!
Start planning your next great getaway with Travel Mamas and Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida. From water parks to getting slimed, you’ll enjoy it all at Nick Hotel. Meet SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and experience interactive Nickelodeon entertainment. Pack your bags because for a limited time your family vacation starts at just $99 a night on select nights through May 2010.
$99 per night in a 2-bedroom KidSuite on select dates
Average cost without discount is $189. That’s a savings of nearly 50%!
Call 1-877-642-5111 and ask for Travel Mamas. Or book online.
Valid for new reservations only. Offer based on limited availability through May 31, 2010. Must book by February 28, 2010. Rates and conditions subject to change. Restrictions apply. Black-out dates: 2/12 – 2/18, 3/12 – 3/18, 3/25 – 4/8, 4/16 – 4/27, weekends in May, 5/28 – 5/31. Cannot be combined with any other special offers or promotional rates. The resort fee of $25 USD, plus tax, per night will be charged, which includes scheduled bus transportation to the four Disney Theme Parks, Universal Studios, Wet N Wild and SeaWorld, poolside entertainment, water park features, business center, high-speed internet, parking and unlimited local phone calls. This fee is not included in the room rate and will be charged regardless of service usage.
A note from The Travel Mama: The Nickelodeon Suites Resort has invited my family and me to stay at their resort for three nights free-of-charge. It looks like so much fun, we decided to book an extra night at a discounted rate.
You can also enter to win a two-night stay at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort! To find out more and enter see:
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