A vacation with your partner or friends should be on your list for 2024

With the holidays on the horizon and all of that togetherness planned, now is the perfect time to book an adults-only vacation for the new year. Parents need time away. Adults-only vacations can strengthen your relationship with your partner, your favorite group of moms, or even your own mother. You can remember what you were like before you had kids. You can relax on the beach and actually read a book. Yes, a whole book!

These adults-only all-inclusive resorts know what parents want: delicious dinners that last well past sunset, afternoons spent at the spa, swim-up suites, and nobody calling you “mommy” or “daddy.” Here are some of our favorite resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, the U.S, and beyond.

Hyatt Zilaria Cancun | Mexico

Whether you plan to spread out your towel at the infinity pool or at one of the oceanside cabanas, you are in for a treat at Hyatt Zilaria Cancun. All of the 310 rooms are extra-large suites and they even have swim-up suites if you want that easy access to the water. Evening entertainment is available if you are looking to take advantage of your late bedtime. The property even has a romance concierge who is at your beck and call to arrange a dinner under the stars or couples’ massage on the beach.

Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort | Dominican Republic

Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort
Melia Punta Cana Beach Resort

Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort is the place to go if you are looking for an adults-only, wellness-inclusive sanctuary.  Situated alongside the white sand and turquoise-blue waters of Bávaro Beach. Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort offers a fully immersive “Wellbeing 360 Experience,” that includes activities like yoga, meditation, culinary classes, bike tours, botanical garden workshops, and fire ritual ceremonies. Those looking for a more introspective space can visit the resort’s Silent Spaces which offer solo painting, sound healing spots, reading pods, and spiritual labyrinth rituals. We are relaxed just thinking about it!

Hammock Cove Antigua

We know you’re going to feel pampered at this adults-only all-inclusive resort as your reservation comes with your own guest ambassador ready to book your couples massage or organize a champagne breakfast in bed. All the rooms are private villas so you’ll feel miles away from your everyday life. Gastronomy is a huge focus here with Michelin star dining options available. Don’t leave without enjoying a Carribean-flavored cocktail at the three-tiered infinity pool.

Mirival Arizona Resort and Spa | Tucson, AZ

Whether you are planning a moms’ weekend or are looking to bring a little more zen back into your relationship, Miraval delivers. The Sonoran desert is well known for its healing properties and you’ll be able to feel it and when you visit. The pace is slow and the sun is plentiful—this area near the Santa Catalina Mountains typically sees about 350 days of sunshine a year. Unplug and enjoy yoga, meditation, and breathwork before you head to the spa for an intuitive massage or reiki treatment.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa | Dominican Republic

This five diamond resort is set on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Retreat to your luxury suite with a balcony or terrace that’s perfect for watching the waves crash along the shore. You’ll enjoy many different types of gourmet cuisine including French, Italian, seafood, and Pan-Asian. Book a couples massage and then enjoy the whirlpool with sauna and steam room. If you want to take advantage of your later bedtime, the resort offers shows, dance lessons, theme nights, and movies on the beach.

Treasure Beach by Elegant Hotels | St. James, Barbados

Treasure Beach by Elegant Hotels

The adultsonly, all-inclusive Treasure Beach is set on a stunning stretch of the Platinum Coast with a variety of gorgeous suites to choose from. Foodies can perfect the art of pastry-making and food-styling, savor signature dishes with an interactive Chef’s Table experience, and try wine-tasting and pairing sessions with the resort’s sommelier. Enjoy complimentary water sports or tours of the island’s art galleries. Following the day’s activities, guests can enjoy nightly cocktail sundowners against a picture-perfect Barbados sunset.

Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa | Crete

This visually stunning property welcomes guests to Greece’s largest island, Crete, for some rest and relaxation. Massive lagoon pools wind their way around the property, making you feel like you are floating on water. You can choose from pool-view rooms, swim-up rooms, and overwater bungalow suites with hot tubs. Dining centers around local Mediterranean cuisine including some top-notch Green wines. You’ll definitely want to try out some of the wellness offerings including spa treatments which include access to the sauna, jacuzzi, hammam, and indoor heated pool.

Castle Hot Springs | Arizona

From as far back as the late 19th century, elite families like the Rockefellers and the Vanderbilts would make the bumpy journey via stagecoach to remote Castle Hot Springs, an oasis in the desert well known for its restorative water. The once-popular resort eventually declined and then burned down in 1976. The resort was brought back in February 2019, and those looking for relaxation and a zen-like atmosphere have enjoyed it ever since. Once there, couples will find just 32 bungalows and cabins, along with the signature natural hot springs. The restorative water flows into bedroom soaking tubs, the main swimming pool, and three rock grotto pools. The water can also flow into your veins if you swig the resort’s own Lithium Lagerbeer, made from the natural spring water. Spa services incorporating spring water are available, as well as horseback riding and yoga.

 

Live like Eloise, a pirate, or Aladdin in these themed suites

Who says a hotel has to be just a place to sleep? It’s time to make the hotel the destination by staying in a place that’ll whisk you away the moment you turn the key. Want to sleep in a Jurassic Park Gryosphere?  That’s a thing! How about a fairy world suite that’s so authentic you’ll feel like you’ve shrunken down to the size of a mushroom cap? You can do that, too. From theme park suites to kitschy roadside attractions, here’s our list of amazing themed hotel rooms:

Jurassic World Kids’ Suites at Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Orlando, FL

Loews Royal Pacific

These suites have authentic Gyrosphere beds that’ll make your kids feel like they’re going to wheel right out of the room and into the Jurassic section of Universal’s next-door theme park. Kids get their own themed rooms, complete with floors that look like grass, and a Jurassic jungle mural on the wall. Grown-ups will appreciate getting their space, too, with tastefully designed king rooms connected via a door modeled after the dinosaur enclosure.

Online: Loewshotels.com/royal-pacific-resort

 

Live a Fairy’s Life at the Roxbury Motel – Catskills, NY

Roxbury Motel

This two-story cottage is so decked out in magical forest trimmings that will have you thinking you’ve shrunken down and joined Tink and her team in Neverland. The cottage has two bedrooms and a Cedar stairwell bound by branches and greenery that will make you feel like you’re ascending a tree into the canopy above.

Note: If fairies aren’t your thing but a trip to the Catskills is, the Roxbury has several other amazing themed dwellings, including a Medieval Castle-themed cottage that’ll have you feeling like you’ve been whisked into an episode of Game of Thrones, and a Cinderalla-themed cottage that’s got a full-size bathroom nestled inside a giant pumpkin (!).

Online: Theroxburyexperience.com

 

Step Inside the Adventureland Suite at The Disneyland Hotel – Anaheim, CA

Disneyland Hotel

All we can say is: If you can shell out the few thousand dollars it takes to stay a night at Disneyland’s luxuriously themed suites, we’re jealous. The hotel has five “Signature Suites,” each one more gorgeous than the next. And while it’s hard to narrow down a fave, we’d have to go with the Adventureland suite, a two-bedroom suite decorated with exotic furnishings and one-of-a-kind curios. It looks like a place Indiana Jones would hang with Walt himself.

Online: Disney.go.com/hotels

 

Step into Agrabah at the Hilton New York Times Square’s Aladdin Palace Suite – NY

Hilton Times Square

Anyone who’s a fan of Aladdin will want to check out this colorful Times Square suite that’s straight out of the fictional land of Agrabah. Furnished with Jasmine-inspired silks, framed prints from the Broadway show, layers of Moroccan rugs, and a genie lamp that was an actual set piece, guests will feel suitably transported (even though the awesome skyscraper view is 100 percent Big Apple).

Guests will also be treated to specialty drinks, complimentary breakfast, and free parking. But the best part? The room comes with up to four premium orchestra seats for the show, located at the New Amsterdam theater right next door.

This suite will be available through Oct. 31. 

Online: Hilton.com

Related: This Times Square Hotel has an Aladdin-Themed Room—And Comes with Broadway Tickets!

 

Slumber In the Jungle at the Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo, CA

Madonna Inn

This sprawling Victorian mansion just off the 101 Freeway in Central California is a shrine to all things kitsch. It has 110 individually-themed rooms, each one offering its own brand of over-the-top style, from the signature Madonna Suite (think velvet furniture and pink flower prints galore) to the three-bedroom “Harvard Square” with red leather and dark wood touches. But we like the Jungle Rock Room best for its authentic, otherworldly gaudiness, with vines draped across the ceiling and an actual rock waterfall in the shower.

Online: madonnainn.com

 

Eloise Suite at The Plaza – New York, NY

Tiny sophisticates will want to hit NYC in style after spending the night at the Eloise Suite at the infamous Plaza Hotel. Inside the perfectly replicated abode, everything is pink and white with a zebra carpet—just as Eloise likes it. Your little Eloise-in-training will feel right at home, especially considering that the closet is stocked with Eloise’s clothes (try them on!) and the shelves are filled with her favorite books, toys, and dolls.

The room also comes with tea for four at The Palm Court, a special welcome letter from Eloise, welcome sweets and goodies chosen by Eloise, and an Eloise gift bag with a special tote bag, Eloise robe, and other fun Eloise gifts

Online: Theplazany.com

 

Despicable Me Kid’s Suites at Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay – Orlando, FL

The submarine door (you have to crank the iron wheel to open it!) is just the beginning of the adventure at these immersive suites that will thrill any fan of Gru and the gang. Kids will love sleeping in their own room, which is outfitted with missile-shaped beds and a Minion mural on the wall, while adults get their own quarters with a king-sized bed and not a minion to be found.

Online: Loewshotels.com/portofino-bay-hotel

 

“Great Indoors” Family Room at Basecamp Tahoe City, CA

Love the idea of camping but don’t want to deal with setting up the tent and sleeping in actual nature? This family suite is the next best thing! Complete with an indoor tent (already set up for you!), faux firepit, picnic tables, and twinkling ceiling stars, you’ll get the perks of the Great Outdoors—without having to actually be, you know…outdoors. And when you wake up, you can explore the actual wildlife, trails, and outdoor activities Lake Tahoe has to offer (the hotel is a five-minute walk to the lake).

Online: Basecamptahoesouth.com

 

Savannah Room at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Orlando, FL

 

While the rooms here are spacious and filled with African art and decor to match the theme, the best part of staying at Disney’s upscale safari-themed lodge is the view: Book a Savannah View room and you’ll be able to spot more than 30 species of Disney’s resident African wildlife—including giraffes, ostriches, and zebras—from your hotel room balcony! It’s better than watching TV (at least, that’s what you’ll tell your kids).

Online: Disneyworld.disney.go.com

 

Make Like a Pirate at LEGOLAND’s Pirate Island Hotel – Orlando, FL

LEGOLAND

Say “Arghh” and step inside the colorful pirate suite at LEGOLAND Florida’s newest hotel. The suite comes with a separate kids’ room outfitted with a bunk bed with a pull-out trundle, plus a fully outfitted LEGO play area. Meanwhile, pirate parents can rest easy in their own room while their littles search for treasure (there’s an in-room treasure hunt with real treasure every day!). That, and it’s all just 130 steps from the theme park!

Note: All LEGOLAND Hotels have themed rooms, with choices including LEGO Ninjago Rooms, Adventure Rooms, Kingdom Rooms, and Pirate Rooms. There’s also a “Beach Retreat” hotel with individual Caribbean-style bungalows. 

Online: Legoland.com/florida

 

Get in the Game at the Curtis Hotel’s Video Game Room – Denver, CO

The Curtis

Donkey Kong arcade console? Check! Mario-themed color scheme? Yep! Retro candy to fuel your sugar high? You bet! This tastefully designed retro suite (it opts for sophistication over kitsch-ification) is an ode to 80s and 90s gaming. Your kids will be all, “Where’s the Xbox?” But now’s your chance to show them the art of pre-TikTok fun.

Splurge-Worthy Extra: Want to go old-school with a group? The Curtis (which has a slew of other awesome themed rooms, including a “Ghostbusters” room on the 13th Floor!) has a “90s-inspired package” that lets you rent the whole floor and soak up the 90s era nostalgia with your BFFs. The package includes an endless selection of 80s and 90s snacks (think cheese puffs and Razzles); a set of iconic “moon shoes” for every guest room; a 90s-inspired silent disco; retro clothing accessories including chokers, bucket hats, and slap bracelets; and a dedicated floor attendant who is at your service throughout your stay.

Online: Thecurtis.com

 

Over-the-Top Themed Suites Outside of the US

Barbiestaycation.com

The Barbie Ultimate Staycation at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is everything your Barbie self wishes she had, including a toy Barbie Dreamhouse propped in the room for pretend play, plenty of pink/Barbie branding to keep you in the mood, a “Pink Afternoon Tea,” and a fully stocked closet with enough wardrobe changes for your mini to put on the Barbie fashion show of her dreams.

SpongeBob Squarepants Villa in Punta Cana – This two-bedroom, three-bathroom suite looks just like the famous yellow sponge’s undersea pineapple abode—with indoor and outdoor living areas, an infinity pool, and private butlers to cater to your whims.

Harry Potter Room (the Wizard’s Chambers) in London – You’ll walk through a hidden bookcase down a candlelit,portrait-lined hallway just to find this spellbinding Harry Potter-themed room located inside the 172-year-old Georgian House Hotel. Once inside, the room features stained glass windows, stone walls, archways, trunks, cauldrons, four-poster beds hung with velvet curtains, and an assortment of magical extras that Potter-obsessed muggles will love.

A family-friendly resort with the gorgeous blue waters of the Caribbean you’ve been dreaming of

We’re pretty sure that your dream family vacation includes things like top-notch food, a stunning beach, massive suites, and an amazing kids club—but does it also include an amusement park? You’ll get this and so much more when you visit Falcon’s Resort by Meliá in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. All the rooms are suites and you’ll love that even when at max occupancy you’ll never have to fight for a lounge chair by the pool.

Along with some serious relaxation vibes, this all-inclusive resort embraces the “resortainment” experience with tons of activities available throughout the day to keep kids (and parents) busy.  When the kids find out that you also have access to next-door Katmandu Park during your stay we know they’ll never want to leave!

The Property and Suites at Falcon’s Resort by Meliá

Kate Loweth

From the moment you arrive at Falcon’s Resort by Meliá, you’ll feel like a treasured guest. The property’s six buildings surround a central pool area with swim-up bar and a lively restaurant serving up tasty Dominican and American cuisine. Don’t miss out on the empanadas and mofongo!

The property has 9 dining establishments offering Asian, Latin, Mediterranean, and Caribbean menus. Families will enjoy the convenience and variety of offerings available at the breakfast and lunch buffets. In addition, you can order room service any time of day (get the croque monsieur for breakfast) as part of your all-inclusive stay.

Kate Loweth

All the 432 rooms are luxury suites so your family will have plenty of room to spread out. We suggest you go for the Beyond Master Suite Swim-Up room as it has a master bedroom with an attached bathroom with a shower and soaker tub. The living area includes a large dining area and bar counter, along with a sitting area that includes a sofabed for the kids. Best of all, you’ll have your own concierge who is available to make spa reservations and assist with any request you have during your stay.

The suite comes with outdoor access to your own private hot tub and a pool that’s shared with other Beyond Suites. We recommend booking a swim-up suite with a garden view if you want a little more privacy. Rooms with an “exclusive view” will be facing the inner pool complex.

BLAST! Water Park at Falcon’s Resort by Meliá

Meliá Hotels International

One of our favorite kid-friendly features of Falcon’s Resort by Meliá is the water park. Located behind building six, this fenced-off area has a number of different water play areas that are great for kids from toddlers to teens. The little ones can enjoy splashing in the zero-entry pool with fun sprayers while older kids can get doused by the dump buckets before they try out the slides. There’s a bar and lunch spot in the water park making it super convenient for parents. Families who plan to spend a lot of time at the water park will be best off requesting a room in building five or six for easy access.

Kids Club and Activities at Falcon’s Resort by Meliá

Meliá Hotels International

You may never see your kids again after you stop by the Habitat Club at Falcon’s Resort by Meliá. This large kids club offers drop-off care and activities for all ages from little ones to teens. You can join in family yoga in the morning and then bring the tweens over for a movie and video games in the afternoon.

Kate Loweth

As part of the resort’s “resortainment” program, they offer activities at the water park, beach, and main pool throughout the day. We especially enjoyed the foam party and afternoon yoga on the beach, Latin dance lessons in the evening, and rum history and tasting.

The Beach at Falcon’s Resort by Meliá

Kate Loweth

Just a quick five-minute golf cart ride or 10-minute walk will get you to the gorgeous Bávaro Beach. Here you’ll find lounge chairs reserved for hotel guests, an open-air restaurant, a food cart, and bar. You’ll definitely want to spend the afternoon enjoying the bright blue waters of the Caribbean. Of note: the resort does a great job of dealing with the seaweed with nets keeping it from coming ashore.

Katmandu Park

Falcon’s Beyond

Guests of Falcon’s Resort by Meliá get access to the brand-new state-of-the-art Katmandu Park where you can experience immersive entertainment like you’ve never seen before. Enter a steampunk-themed world where you can fire blasters to earn points in EtherQuest™, venture into the Himalayas in the Legend of the Desirata™, experience a daring underwater rescue aboard the Voyage of the Fathom Wanderer™, and blast your way through an unforgettable game of chess in the Challenge of the Mad Mage™!

In addition to these 4D interactive experiences, guests can put their skills to the test on the High Point Adventure course and see how fast they can make it through the Quagadon™. Families will especially enjoy Expedition Golf where you can wander ice caves and putt down a waterfall. Little ones can enjoy the Soft Play area where there are special sections for babies, toddlers, and juniors (ages 5-8).

Guests of all ages are welcome at Katmandu Park but most of the activities are geared towards older kids and adults. Standard room guests get a 1-use pass while Beyond Suite guests get a multi-use pass. Katmandu Park is right next door to Falcon’s Resort by Meliá and you can get there via golf cart from the resort.

What We Loved About Falcon’s Resort by Meliá:

  • The resort feels very zen while still having lots of activities to keep you as busy as you want to be.
  • The food was the best of any all-inclusive we’ve been to. Even the buffet had a lot of options that kids would like.
  •  Very large rooms that are ideal for families
  • Gracious and welcoming staff. They remembered us throughout our stay and got to know our likes and dislikes.
  • The water park was a great place to spend the day with kids of all ages.
  • Easy access to the beach and plenty of lounge chairs.
  • Katmandu Park added a great entertainment option, especially for families with older kids. You’ll be amazed by the steampunk theme that is carried throughout all the 4D experiences and activities.

Falcon’s Resort by Meliá
Online: melia.com

Katmandu Park
Online: puntacana.katmanduparks.com

Editor’s note: This resort was paid for by Falcon’s Resort by Meliá but all opinions belong to the writer.

Get ready to plan your summer vaycay! Karisma Hotels and Resorts recently announced the soon-to-come debut of the Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya—coming to Mexico in June 2021.

This new Nick resort will feature your kiddo’s fave character friends, including SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, Dora, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and more.

The resort boasts 280 all oceanfront, swim-up suites for up to five guests, and one of the largest water attractions in Mexico. Each suite comes with playful Nick-inspired decor and furnishings. Add to the Nick-themed fun and upgrade to one of the four rooftop penthouse Signature Suites—such as the Pineapple Suite or the Turtle Lair Suite. Parents will love this extra-special feature: all suites come with two bathrooms so you don’t have to share with the kids!

When it comes to water-side fun, this resort has it all. The Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya features Aqua Nick, a six-acre water park. Aqua Nick attractions include more than 1,820 square feet of river rides and 2,000 square feet of slides.

As if the water-soaked entertainment isn’t enough, the resort also offers plenty of interactive experiences with 20 of Nick’s signature characters. The Nickelodeon Place entertainment area features Club Nick (a free play zone for kids with themed days, a craft lab, character meet and greets, and more) and the ’90s inspired SNICK Lounge.

Mario Mathieu, Senior Vice President of Business Development, Design and Construction of Karisma Hotels & Resorts said, in a press release, “After the huge success of the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, we could not be better poised to expand the brand experience with our resort with all oceanfront swim-up suites, along with themed experiences with an extended cast of 20 your favorite Nickelodeon characters.” Mathieu added, “his property features many firsts such as the new Turtle Lair Suite, even more dedicated entertainment spaces such as SNICK Lounge and Mainstage, and the one-of-a-kind Aqua Nick with its epic slides, river rides and the teen-friendly Soak Summit, which will be a destination in itself.”

Even though the resort won’t open until June 2021, you can book your getaway right now. Visit the Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya here for exclusive opening rates.

—Erica Loop

Photos courtesy of Karisma Hotels and Resorts

 

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Celebs are just like us, kind of. With summer in full swing, celebrity parents are headed off on fab family vacations. From overseas adventures to near-home getaways, these notable names are taking time off work, hanging with their kiddos and making memories.

So what’s it like to go on a celebrity vaycay? According to their Instagram posts, it’s pretty darn awesome. If you’ve ever wanted to travel with the stars, check out these famous faces and their summer plans!

Kristen Bell

The actress/mama, husband Dax Shepard and their kiddos skipped the lux tropical vaycay for some quality family-time in Michigan!

Chrissy Teigen

Teigen, hubby John Legend and their two kids are taking it easy in Portofino. Along with leisurely strolls and yacht-side play, it looks like the couple and their oh-so-cute kiddos are enjoying some serious family time.

James Van Der Beek

The former Dawson and his broad of five kiddos vacationed in tropical Punta Cana. Between the surf, the sea and the palm trees, the Van Der Beek clan ceratinly had a magical summer vaycay.

Busy Philips

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzHBqsCgke9/

The mama of two celebrated her big 4-0 in a Cabo with friends, family and a gorgeous party. Scroll through her IG post for a glimpse at the party decor and the main menu!

Kate Hudson

The actress and entrepreneur got in some sweet snuggle time with daughter Rani Rose on an early-summer trip to the Amalfi Coast.

Khloe Kardashian

Khloe and baby True spent some quality time together in the Turks and Caicos last May as vacation season kicked off!

Gabrielle Union

The actress took some time off to spend with her new baby daughter Kaavia.

David Beckham

In true soccer star fashion, Beckham took daughter Harper to watch some World Cup action in France. And the the seven-year-old even got to meet the England Lionesses.

Victoria Beckham

Her hot hubby may have spent some serious soccer-filled time with daughter Harper, but the rest of the fam still got in some summer vacation action. Posh posted this sweet family pic from a trip to Seville, Spain.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

The actress and model shared this fam photo of son Jack and beau action star Jason Statham.

Pink and Carey Hart

Hart posted these sweet pics of the couple’s kids on a fun-filled (and bike ride-filled) day out in London.

Hoda Kotb

New mommy (for the second time) and Today co-host Kotb showed off her patriotic side during a July Fourth stroll.

Drew Barrymore

Barrymore took to the beach for a summer-time July Fourth holiday getaway.

Molly Sims

The model mama and her daughter got matchy-matchy in coordinating swimsuits at East Hampton Bay Beach.

Andy Cohen

The Bravo-celeb spent time pool-side in East Hampton with son Benjamin.

Jessica Alba

Alba and her broad got in some family vacation time (and a history lesson) during a trip to Rome.

Whitney Port

The Hills’ star snuggled with her little love post-flight in Vermont.

Kelly Ripa

What a difference eight years makes! Ripa posted a throwback pic of her fam and one from this year’s vaycay.

Eva Longoria

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzVL7jkn-En/

Forget about a tropical getaway. This celebrity parent visited London with her kiddo. And, based on her IG post, the family is off to Budapest next.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Chrissy Teigen via Instagram

 

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Still trying to decided where to go for your family’s summer vacation? Studies show that traveling with kids has tremendous, lasting benefits no matter where you go, but some destinations might be a little more exciting than others. AAA has released its list of the top 10 travel destinations for summer 2019.

Based on data from AAA Travel bookings for trips Jun. 1 through Aug. 15, 2019, these are the top 10 destinations for this summer.

photo: Marc Richards via Pexels

  1. Orlando, Florida
  2. London, England
  3. Rome, Italy
  4. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
  5. Dublin, Ireland
  6. Paris, France
  7. Seattle, Washington
  8. Anchorage, Alaska
  9. Honolulu, Hawaii
  10. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

“Millions of Americans are making plans for summer vacations, visiting famous landmarks in Europe, family attractions stateside, and anything in between,” said Paula Twidale, vice president, AAA Travel. “AAA recommends travelers plan ahead and book early with the expertise of a knowledgeable travel agent to maximize your vacation experience, saving time and money so you can focus on making vacation memories that will last well after summer fades away.”

If crowds aren’t your thing or these popular destinations are already booked for the summer, there are plenty of other hotspots to check out. “These top locales are sure to see an influx of travelers this summer, but some people will be looking for great vacation spots with slightly fewer crowds,” continued Twidale. “Other destinations to watch this year that didn’t quite make the top 10 list include Montego Bay, Jamaica; Calgary, Canada; Amsterdam, Netherlands; and Anaheim, California.”

—Shahrzad Warkentin

 

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Photo: Club Med Punta Cana

One of our favorite actors, Neil Patrick Harris, and husband Chef David Burtka, couldn’t be prouder of their twins Gideon and Harper. Neil took to Instagram to share the celebratory fun they had at Club Med Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, celebrating their twins’ sixth birthday.

 

The family had loads of circus fun at Club Med CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil and on the beautiful sands of this Caribbean beach.

 

Photo: Club Med Punta Cana

Looks legend…dary! Maybe next year we can all tag along.

Are you a fan of NPH? Let us know in the comments below!

We have been to the mountaintop of family vacations, and what we’ve seen on the other side is thrilling. Club Med Punta Cana is an all-inclusive resort and active family’s dream vacation destination. From the expected to the unexpected, a vacation at Club Med Punta Cana aims to please. All on the edge of the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. All-inclusive. All-elujiah!

CREACTIVE

Possibly the most unique offering at Club Med Punta Cana is CREACTIVE, a new acrobatic playground for adults and children alike that is the result of a partnership with Cirque du Soleil. Cirque-trained performers safely challenge, support, and entertain guests as they test the limits of their comfort zones through acrobatic trapeze, suspended bungee, and trampoline. More comfortable with your feet on the ground? CREACTIVE also engages participants in the circus arts, including face painting, choreography, and music.

Dining

As with many all-inclusive resorts, Club Med Punta Cana offers three restaurants and two bars that range from gourmet (grilled lobster and passion fruit petit fours come to mind) to guaranteed pleasers (think burgers, fish, and ice cream). And while the restaurants do open and close on a schedule, you are never far from a snack, surf side cook-out, or all-day a la carte offerings as you please.

Sports

Snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are all included in the resort’s water sport offerings with instruction for no additional fee, and if you’re interested in trying kite surfing, water skiing, scuba diving, or paddle boarding, all you have to do is ask. They, along with other more exotic water sports and excursions, are also available with instruction for a fee. And though Club Med Punta Cana is situated on a stretch of pristine caribbean coastline, water sports aren’t the only athletic endeavors at the resort. Archery, tennis, volleyball, fitness classes (including one-on-one instruction and personal training), golf, and mini golf are all included.

Spa

After soaring through the air and sailing through the seas, guests can wind down at the serene beachside Spa L’Occitane, complete with private bungalows, freshwater infinity pool, and some of the best masseuses we’ve ever encountered. 9 air conditioned rooms, including 1 for tandem treatments, a relaxation room and tea room round out the experience.

Kids Club

There’s no doubt that Club Med Punta Cana offers a catalogue of activities, entertainment, and experiences for families to enjoy together. However, the unique children’s clubs have an array of sports, creative games, group outings, and entertainment for every age from tots to teens. Clubs are available for drop-off (or drop-in, if you prefer) for ages 4 months -17 years old as part of the all-inclusive offerings of the resort. So while mom and dad enjoy dinner or a sailing excursion alone, the kiddos can happily rock the club house (and age-appropriate pool, playground, and splash pads).

Accommodations

Club Med Punta Cana’s premium accommodations are clean, comfortable, cheerful, and convenient for kiddos (strollers and little legs will have no problem navigating the property). Stay tuned for a brand new adult-only Zen Oasis component coming in December 2015 that aims to up the ante for luxury-minded travelers (or multi-generational families who might not all have pint sized passport holders). But when you’ve got kids in tow, thread count doesn’t matter nearly as much as the amount of fun you have together as a family, and it doesn’t get any more fun than running off to join the circus (or learn how to sail, golf, play tennis, or salsa dance).

Club Med Punta Cana
APT Postal 106 Higuey Punta Cana
Dominican Republic
809-685-5500
Online: clubmed.us

What other unique vacation activities does your family enjoy? Tell us in the comments section below.

—Shelley Massey