Whether you are looking to check out the Guggenheim, see a show on Broadway, or take a walk through Central Park, a visit to New York City is something that all families should experience. When looking for a New York hotel for families, you’ll find that space is at a premium and most properties only offer small, cramped rooms that aren’t particularly suited for traveling with kids. A family suite is the only option when you need a spot for you to hang out while your toddler naps. We recently stayed at INNSiDE New York NoMad and their family suites are the perfect option for families visiting New York. Here’s the full scoop on what you can expect when you stay there:
The Family Loft at INNSiDE New York NoMad
Meliá Hotels International
When traveling with family, space is at a premium. You have luggage and backpacks and strollers to deal with and they can easily take over your hotel room. That’s why the family loft at INNSiDE New York NoMad is so perfect. You’ll get two adjoining rooms with a king-sized bed and a queen-sized bed, plus two bathrooms (which are KEY in our opinion). Best of all, you’ll have space for a crib and all the kid gear you’ve brought with you.
Having two rooms means your toddler can nap in one room while you watch TV or read a book in the other room. The property also offers other layouts with dedicated living rooms and a balcony with city views.
Meliá Hotels International
Even the standard-sized rooms at INNSiDE New York NoMad are quite spacious compared to other New York hotels we’ve visited. All rooms have a mini fridge, coffee maker, and yoga mat. The organizational features of the bathroom made it easy to keep toiletries off the countertop so things didn’t get too cluttered.
Amenities at INNSiDE New York NoMad
The Wilson | Kate Loweth
When you enter the hotel lobby, you’ll find the entrance to The Wilson, a restaurant offering everything from New England clam chowder to Brussels sprouts tacos and mac n’ cheese. You’ll get a kick out of the options on the kids’ menu that include “I don’t know” (pancakes with berries and syrup) and “I’m not hungry” (chicken fingers). There’s even a dog menu for your four-legged friends.
It’s easy to pop down and grab some eats to enjoy in the property’s outdoor Rose Garden when the weather cooperates or order up some room service after a long day. Be sure to take a look at all the Wilson references throughout the restaurant, including the famous volleyball!
INNSiDE New York NoMad | Kate Loweth
INNSiDE New York NoMad also has a 24-hour fitness center with stunning city views and colorful meeting rooms for when you need a group gathering space. The weekend we were there brought a DJ to the lobby for a fun and festive vibe.
The Location
INNSiDE New York NoMad | Kate Loweth
When visiting New York with your kids, it’s super convenient to stay at a hotel that’s close to the subway and other tourist destinations. New York is a very walkable city and you’ll want to take advantage of that when you visit.
INNSiDE New York NoMad is only a few blocks from Penn Station, making it a great option for those flying into Newark and taking NJ Transit to the city. It’s about a 15-minute walk to the Empire State Building and 20 minutes from Times Square. Just past Times Square, you’ll find all the Broadway theaters and lots of dining options. Keep going just a bit more and you’ll be at Central Park.
While all these spots are definitely walkable with (willing) kids, you can also hop on the subway if you want to experience that part of New York. There’s a subway station for the 1 Train a block away that will take you south to the World Trade Center, north to Central Park, and beyond.
Jamaica is known for its white sandy beaches and these resorts deliver
If you are looking for a sunny vacation spot where everyone will be happy about the food, the music, the water temperature, and the chill vibes, then Jamaica is for you. We’ve rounded up seven properties that cater to families and go the extra mile.
Azul Beach Resort is stunningly located along Seven Mile Beach and no matter where you go on the property, you are always steps from the beach. With its boutique feel, it’s the perfect oasis for both couples and families. When you visit Azul Beach Resort, it will be hard to choose what you love the most—the stunning sunsets, the food, the beach, or the people.
With nine restaurants, nine bars, seven pools, a spa, and a gym, this smaller property offers a very relaxed guest experience. There is so much to do here; even on a rainy day, you’ll have many things to keep the family happy. The activities team does a great job keeping kids busy with activities like the foam party at the pool.
As part of the Sandals family, Beaches Negril is a true family-friendly ultra-all-inclusive resort. Jamaica has two resorts, one in Ocho Rios and one in Negril. The property in Negril just underwent renovations on all their rooms and suites. The resort caters to all age groups with dedicated programs for infants, toddlers, and teens. There is a new 18,000 sq ft water park with lazy rivers, water slides including some for toddlers, a dining area, and more. Parents can enjoy the all-inclusive amenities, including premium drinks and gourmet dining at 11 restaurants.
As the only resort chain with a partnership with Sesame Street, your kids can meet some of their favorite characters during their stay. Parents with babies will love the infant program at no extra cost, and this is one of few resorts that offer childcare for infants under one year. The Kids Club program ranges from babies to teens.
Beaches Resorts provides terrific value for families who dive with all-inclusive diving at no extra cost! Beaches truly is for all and was the first resort company in the world to complete training with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and Autism Certification. Their kids’ programming includes options for families who have special needs.
Bahia Principe Grand is in Runaway Bay, between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, and the highlight is the gorgeous sandy beach. It’s a large property with three pools facing the ocean and a new waterpark that the kids will love. We especially love that the areas around the pool are lit at night. The property features six restaurants, 11 bars, a kids club, and a spa. Take advantage of the complimentary kayaking, snorkeling, or catamaran rentals for 1 hour daily.
Moon Palace Jamaica is a beachfront resort with scenic views along the shores of Ocho Rios. The resort’s all-inclusive package includes a dedicated kids’ club where older children can engage in supervised activities and children under four years old can participate with parental supervision. One feature that parents of infants will love is the baby menu, where parents can schedule freshly prepared pureed meals for their entire stay. Parents can save on the cost by booking during their kids/teen stay free offers. This resort also offers a 24-hour room service option.
Grand Palladium, Lucea
Grand Palladium is an indulgent escape located between Negril & Montego Bay. There are two hotels on the property, and guests have full access to both facilities, including all pools, beaches, restaurants, and bars. A highlight of this property is the private beaches and coves that give a sense of privacy and seclusion away from the busyness of the rest of the island. Though it’s a large resort, it’s still walkable, but if you prefer or need it due to mobility challenges, some golf carts can take you around the property.
Parents will love that this resort includes a baby club for kids ages 1-3, a mini club for ages 4-12, and a Junior club for teens. With one of the largest pools in Jamaica, a kids’ pool, and an adults-only pool, there is something for everyone.
Hotel Riu, Ocho Rios
Hotel Riu Ocho Rios is a large beachfront resort featuring 900 rooms, five pools, one children’s pool with slides, 11 restaurants and bars, and 24-hour service. The kids will love Splash Water World and the RiuLand Kids Club. The hotel is on a long white sand beach, with a section allocated only for guests.
Royalton Blue Waters, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort nestled on the stunning shores of Montego Bay, offers guests 228 suites, 7 bars, nine restaurants, pools, and a pirate-themed waterpark. This luxury resort with a boutique feel is excellent for families. The kids club is for children aged four and up.
Amenities include water sports, poolside cabanas, a lazy river, and more. The pirate-themed waterpark will surely be a hit with kids of all ages.
For families who want to avoid a long drive from their airport, this property is only 34 minutes from the Montego Bay airport.
We recently visited Beaches Negril and we were some of the first to experience the new Beachfront Firesky Reserve Villas & Eventide Penthouse Collection. This new accommodation level is sprawling, and modernly designed, and it comes with a smiling butler to top it all off. The resort itself is just a 1.5-hour drive from Montego Bay, which offers direct flight options to plenty of U.S. destinations.
The Villas and Penthouses are perfect for big families who want to splurge
The Beachfront Firesky Reserve Villas & Eventide Penthouse Collection provides a great option for large families and multi-generational family travel. It’s also an option for 2-3 different families traveling together as friends who are keen to share accommodation. Some of the units can sleep up to 18, so there are several different options you can dream up to get your money’s worth staying in one of these penthouses or villas. And if you’re looking to cut back on cost, we expect the other accommodation options at Beaches Negril will be amenable, too.
The Beachfront Firesky Reserve Villas & Eventide Penthouse Collection are booking out fast, so if you’re looking to visit Beaches Negril this upcoming peak season you’ll need to move fast.
Location, location, location
The resort is on 7 Mile Beach, which is home to white sand, no seaweed, warm water, and some of the most beautiful sunsets we’ve seen in the Caribbean. The beach is safe for children as there are no waves, or high tides. It’s where you can go to wade about in the ocean for hours on end. You’ll see fish, rays and jellyfish (confirming run-ins with the latter may sting, but the pain is fleeting). Families can enjoy walks down the beach, or parents can drop off the children at the Kids Club and enjoy an adults-only stroll.
The Kids Club and Waterpark get 5-stars
The Kids Club was newly built in 2023 and is the most luxurious amenity on offer at Beaches Negril. The care providers make you feel welcomed and secure with strong eye contact, bright smiles, and a lot of kindness. It’s clear they run a tight ship, and while kids go here to let loose, the staff is very much in control. The infant room has bassinets and new toddler beds for those under 5s who want to catch some rest-eye on vacay. The decor is well balanced with bright colors and neutral wood finishings and even has an inside two-story “soft play” as the Brits would call it. It feels like Montessori meets DZ Discovery Zone in Paradise. They even have a room full of strollers to rent when needed, too!
The Pirate Islands Waterpark provides endless hours of fun and laughs for the children, and there are two additional water slides that offer extra thrills for both children and adults alike. The covered waterslide is a tad bit scary the first time, but the second time down it’s all smiles.
The Villas & Penthouses are expensive, but there are no additional hidden fees
The price you commit to paying upfront for your Beaches Negril holiday is the price you’ll pay—which feels like a luxury in this day and age. We sailed, snorkeled, and went paddling in a glass-bottom canoe and didn’t pay any additional fees. We recommend bringing cash if you want to buy any souvenirs on the beach or get the kids’ hair braided by the gal who hangs out with Big Dave just past the water activity station. It costs around $80 for a full head of braids for a person with long hair past shoulders. If anyone tells you a different price, feel free to use this review to support your negotiation!
Luxury touches for both adults and children
The room service menu has an in-room live cooking option, which lets you enjoy staying in while still feeling like you’re eating out. It’s an experience only those with a kitchen are lucky enough to enjoy so if you do go with the Beachfront Firesky Reserve Villas & Eventide Penthouse Collection, we say make the most of it.
There are adult and children-sized robes hung in the closets. We think these cozy robes are best worn while enjoying room service breakfast in the morning, or stargazing with your own telescope from the balcony at night. There are also board games in the closet, and we are happy when any destination encourages less screen time and more together time.
Sandals impresses with its philanthropic initiatives and inclusivity programming
Beaches is owned by Sandals. It’s a corporate giant. While visiting Beaches Negril, we were delighted to learn Sandals is seemingly a corporate giant with a lot of heart. It funds a school in the Negril community, invests in wildlife protection, and also has programming that caters specifically to children with autism.
The food can be a hit or miss, but there are indeed some definite hits
While food isn’t always the main attraction at all-inclusive destinations, we had high hopes because Beaches and Sandals market their 5-Star Global Gourmet Dining as the industry’s premier dining experience. But, the food at Beaches Negril can be a hit or miss. The new Peruvian restaurant is good. The sushi restaurant is not so good. The Jerk Shack is great, but it’s missing some sides on the menu. Mariachi is disappointing, yet its morning menu under the restaurant name Stew Fish is delicious.
Our Favorite dishes at the resort include Jamaican breakfast platter at Stew Fish, Jerk Chicken at The Jerk Shack, Tiradito Clasico ceviche and the Peruvian mac & cheese at Yaku, and triple chocolate frozen yogurt with chocolate cake crumbs and Rice Krispies as toppings from Yo Yo’s.
Also, on the room service menu, we recommend fried chicken with jerk sauce for a tasty late-night snack, and a fruit platter and jug of Blue Mountain coffee enjoyed in bed before the kids wake up.
The team at Beaches Negril has a few kinks to work out before peak season
The cellular network isn’t great at the resort and the butler can be hard to be reached by the phone provided. We spent the first 48 hours feeling like we were either trying to get ahold of the butler, or the butler was trying to get ahold of us. In the end, we found texting the butler was the best way to make plans, or ask questions.
Also, in full transparency, our penthouse accommodation wasn’t 100% guest-ready, but we are hopeful they’ll get it all sorted by the time peak season kicks off.
Silence is hard to come by during peak hours
Beaches Negril is all high fives, water slides, and frozen yogurt swirls. The programming and activities on offer make for nonstop entertainment and family fun. But, we must caveat, if you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing family getaway, then this spot may not be the right fit for you. Between the blasting music, determined parasailing and cannabis salesmen on the beach, and the joy-filled children running around the resort at their heart’s desire, silence is hard to come by throughout peak hours of the day and evening.
Beaches Negril may be the perfect one-stop-shop vacation for some (or even most) families. But for others who enjoy a balance between nesting, activity, and cultural immersion, we recommend possibly combining your Beaches Negril trip with a few nights elsewhere, or making a few off-site excursions.
Off-site Excursions to Consider
Visit Rick’s Bar, rated one of the best bars in the world, which is just a 15-minute drive from Beaches Negril. You can get the butler to organize a taxi there or Big Dave on the beach can take you there on his boat and make a snorkeling stop en route, too. For some incredibly legit local jerk BBQ, visit Push Cart (part of luxury boutique hotel Rockhouse). The food is delicious, the cocktails are made with white rum, and the sunset above the cliffs there is another beautiful one to experience while in Negril.
There’s a private cave dinner at The Caves Hotel just up from Rockhouse that’s also an option if you want to splurge on a meal outside of Beaches. It’s apparently Naomi Campbell’s favorite hotel, and you can enjoy a 5-course meal by candlelight in a cave for $175 per person, all drinks included. It’s expensive, but if you have a special occasion you’d like to celebrate without the children present, it makes for a good option.
Rockhouse also has a sister beach property called Skylark which is just a few properties down from Beaches Negril, which has authentic Jamaican decor and a hip crowd.
If you want to stay on property at Beaches Negril and still experience some “mom and dad” romance, you can organize a private meal for two on the beach. It comes with an up-charge, but guests love it.
Getting to Beaches Negril
Book the flight to Montego Bay, then let Beaches Negril do the rest from there! Whether you take a bus or private transfer, the resort will organize your arrival and departure, which makes for a low-stress start and end to your vacation.
We say book the flight, mon.
Beaches Negril is where you go to indulge in doing everything the Beaches Negril way. So we say “dive in,” and make the most of it. If you arrive with eyes wide open based on all we shared above, happy family memories are pretty much a guarantee at Beaches Negril!
Make sure to capture all the vacation fun—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Beaches Negril but all opinions belong to the writer.
Save some money on your next family vacation by bringing the kids along for free
Taking a cruise is at the top of many families’ vacation wishlists. The ability to enjoy activities for every age group, eat plenty of tasty food, and see great destinations without changing hotels makes cruising the ideal vacation. Even better? Enjoying a cruise that allows children to sail for free. Because while a cruise is a lot of fun, the cost can quickly add up. Some cruise lines offer this perk year-round and others have specials to keep an eye out for. To make it a little easier, we put together a list of those cruise lines that offer this special option to those vacationing with young children.
Home to the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean looks to ensure that you never hear the dreaded “I’m bored!” In addition to having the tallest slide at sea, Royal Caribbean ships offer activities such as surf simulators, Broadway musicals, youth and teen clubs, multiple restaurants, and trapeze school. Royal Caribbean often has Kids Sail Free promotions where children 12 and under cruise for free with two passengers. These deals apply to three nights or longer sailings when booked in the same cabin as qualifying guests.
With highly rated kid and teen clubs, putt-putt golf, dance classes, movies under the stars, and special parents’ night out events, Princess Cruises offers plenty of opportunities for vacationing families to have fun. From onboard shows to the educational programs developed in conjunction with Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, cruising on The Love Boat promises to be entertaining. There are also plenty of dining opportunities to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. On Princess, 3rd and 4th passengers on the same booking sail for free (excluding fees, taxes, and deposits) on select itineraries, including unique destinations like Hawaii, Antarctica, and trans-Atlantic voyages.
Families sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line have plenty of opportunities to have a vacation they won’t forget. With stops at ports worldwide, including multiple locations in Africa, there’s a trip for every type of group. With an eye on helping with the comforts of those traveling with children, Norwegian has family balcony staterooms near the pool deck and youth program areas. There are multiple choices for dining from main dining rooms, buffets, and room service, with children 12 and under eating free at all of Norwegian’s specialty restaurants. In addition, 3rd and 4th guests in one stateroom sail for free on select sailings.
Known for its elegance, Holland America Line isn’t just for older passengers. Families with young children are welcomed warmly onboard, and there are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy. Those ages 3 to 17 have access to the onboard kids club, where there are plenty of activities and educational presentations depending on ports of call. Dining options offer everything from specialty restaurants to burgers and hot dogs. And larger families will enjoy the suites, some offering complimentary laundry services. To help encourage more family travel, Holland America allows guests 18 and under to travel for free when booked as a 3rd or 4th guest on select cruises. The offer has no expiration date but is limited to up to two children per booking and doesn’t include taxes, fees, or port charges.
A unique vacation experience is taking a river cruise. More intimate ships with passenger numbers in the hundreds instead of thousands, river cruises allow guests to visit smaller cities more inland than a traditional cruise line. While some river cruises don’t allow children, CroisiEurope has family-friendly cruises in Portugal, the Rhine, Italy, and Spain that enable children ages 16 and under to sail free. With all-inclusive menus that they adapt for younger pallets, excursions, and waived single supplements for grandparents sailing in a separate cabin alone, it’s an opportunity to experience a different type of cruising.
A newer addition to cruise lines that have ships based out of the United States, MSC Cruises has been a staple in European cruising for over 30 years. The fourth largest cruise line in the world, they know cruising and families. Family-friendly excursions with special pricing for children, kids clubs, and special kids’ areas in restaurants add to a vacation everyone will remember. And MSC’s partnership with The LEGO® Group as their exclusive entertainment partner means new play areas, plenty of LEGO bricks to build with, and an experience once every cruise dedicated to everything LEGO. MSC occasionally has promotions where children age 17 and under sail for free as the 3rd and 4th passengers on select sailings. These promotions are subject to availability and exclude fees, taxes, and drink packages for minors.
Have you dreamed of taking a family vacation on a classic tall ship? Star Clippers makes it possible! With destinations in the Caribbean, Central America, and Europe, there are plenty of opportunities to explore new cultures. While this line doesn’t have a kids club, there are nautical activities on board, such as knot-tying classes, climbing the mast and helping the crew hoist a sail, and excursions on shore to keep them entertained. Now through July 31, 2023, Star Clippers has a “kids under 18 years old sail free” offer, plus 10 percent off for grandparents on select 2023 and 2024 cruises, making it the perfect time to schedule a unique family reunion.
Hand over the stress of planning to the experts and you’ll get to enjoy your vacation from start to finish
If you are the travel planner in your family, you know what goes into coordinating everything from flights to airport transfers to excursions once you are there. In the “olden days,” people used to consult an in-person travel agent who would take care of these tasks for them. But with everything available online these days, most travelers take on this somewhat stressful responsibility themselves. There’s a better way.
We enlisted the services of Funjet Vacations to plan a recent trip to the gorgeous all-inclusive Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa; it could not have been easier. Direct flights, a private airport transfer, an on-site concierge for excursions, and the confidence in knowing that the property we selected was vetted made this option a no-brainer for our family.
Dreams Los Cabos
Dreams Los Cabos
From the moment you arrive at Dreams Los Cabos, you will feel the relaxing vibes take over. Located on the Sea of Cortez, you’ll be just a 30-minute ride from the airport and an even shorter ride to downtown Cabo San Lucas. Have Funjet Vacations arrange your ride from the airport via Amstar so you don’t have to deal with finding a taxi after a long day of travel.
Families can spread out in a suite that comes with a separate kitchen area, balcony, 24-hour room service, and so much more. All-inclusive amenities include access to a number of a la carte restaurants including French and Italian cuisine, seafood, and steak. Get your fill at the breakfast buffet with Mexican favorites and a made-to-order omelet station.
The main pool is at the center of the resort and includes multiple areas with lounge chairs, a swim-up bar, and even a water slide for the kids. Be sure to look for the massive iguanas sunning themselves near the waterslide. Send your kids to the Explorers Club (more on that below) and head over to the adult’s-only pool near the seafood restaurant. Here you’ll find a quieter zen vibe with another swim-up bar.
You’ll want to note that Dreams Los Cabos is located right on the beach but often the waves are too intense for swimming.
Kids’ Club at Dreams Los Cabos
Dreams Los Cabos
Kids ages 3-12 will flip over all the fun that’s offered at the property’s Explorers Club. From arts and crafts to video games to outdoor water play, the activities available really cater to all ages and interests. If you are lucky, the bungee trampoline and climbing wall will be on the schedule during your visit. Parents who want to have a kid-free evening can drop their brood off for karaoke night, movie night, or everyone’s favorite—the campout on the beach.
Activities at Dreams Los Cabos
Kate Loweth
Nightly entertainment during our stay ranged from live music near the lobby to a mariachi band that walked through the property. Mexican Night was a highlight with musicians and dancers performing on the main stage by the beach. We loved ending our night with this bit of Mexican culture!
Nightly movies on the beach were also a huge hit with the kids (and adults too). Head down to the sand where they have lounge chairs and popcorn waiting for you to enjoy while you watch family favorites like Puss in Boots.
You’ll find trivia contests, Aqua Zumba, and singalongs taking place throughout the day by the main pool. Download the resort’s app so you know what to expect for the day’s activities.
There are many ways to make your Dreams Los Cabos vacation one you won’t soon forget. We definitely recommend that you book the Balinese Beds during your stay as it will give your family a private area to enjoy the beach views with your own plunge pool. You’ll have a dedicated server to bring you margaritas and virgin piña coladas along with fish tacos and guacamole. Head up to the second floor of your private space for some lounging in the sun. You can even cue up your favorite show or play your playlist through the speakers.
The property’s on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, and manicures. Spend your afternoon enjoying the sauna and steam room after your session. For the most indulgent experience, book a massage on the beach so you can enjoy the crashing waves while you truly relax.
Another next-level option offered at Dreams Los Cabos is their Le Petit Chef interactive dining experience. This experience was really delightful as it told the story of a tiny chef who prepared each course for you from salad to dessert. Your meal comes to life as you watch this tiny chef gather veggies, swim through the sea, and build an igloo. Offered at the Italian and French restaurants for an additional fee, we definitely recommend you book this with the concierge when you visit.
Things to Do in Cabo with Kids
Kate Loweth
As part of your Funjet Vacations booking, Amstar offers a number of excursions for your off-property days in Cabo. Adventurous families will enjoy a day of ziplining over the desert at Wild Canyon. Other activities there include ATVs, camel rides, and a water park. Visit the resident animals and walk across the massive rope bridge (if you dare!). You can also book dinner cruises to see the famed Cabo arch, snorkeling excursions, and dolphin encounters.
An Amstar representative is available at the property for booking excursions and airport transportation if you didn’t make the arrangements in advance.
The Funjet Vacations Experience
When you book your family trip with Funjet Vacations, you’ll have over 45 years of experience in your corner. They offer customized vacation packages for your family that can include everything from direct flights to airport transfers to excursions. The hotels and resorts that Funjet recommends include luxurious all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, Hawaiian hotels with stunning surroundings, upscale and trendy locations in Costa Rica and Panama, popular U.S. vacation destinations, and a wide selection of charming European accommodations.
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.
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.
Minutes from the airport but miles away from your everyday life, Velas Vallarta is just the all-inclusive family vacation you need
While you might think of all-inclusive resorts as reserved for honeymooners, we’re here to say that they really should be at the top of your list for your next family vacation. All the planning that typically goes into a family vacation is left up to the experts. Just show up with your swimsuits and appetites, ready for a real vacation.
Puerto Vallarta is just a short flight from much of the U.S. and it’s the ideal destination for foodies, parents, and beach-loving kids. Velas Vallarta offers massive suites, activities for all ages, an amazing kids club, and so much more. Peek our highlight reel below and then scroll on for the nitty gritty details.
The suites at Velas Vallarta are perfect for families
Whether you are planning a vacation with toddlers or teens (or even your extended family), Velas Vallarta has the suite for you. All rooms are condo-style with a kitchen that includes a coffee maker (KEY for early risers), microwave, cooktop, and full-size fridge. The two-bedroom suite has two bathrooms, a large living room, and a spacious deck. Bringing the grandparents along? Add on the attached studio room or go for an even bigger option to keep everyone happy. Some suites even have their own plunge pool!
All-inclusive means that your suite will be stocked with sodas, beers, bottled water, snacks, and pretty much anything you need when you get snacky. Room service is available 24 hours so you can get tacos and margaritas delivered immediately upon arrival from the airport.
Trust us, you are going to be spending all your time at the pool. Connected by a fun waterway, there are two main pools at Velas Vallarta. The activity pool has a swim-up bar, water volleyball net, and activities throughout the day like water aerobics. The other pool has a more tranquil vibe with loads of shaded lounge chairs surrounding it. There's even a mini pool for the kids right near kids club.
You can get drinks and food delivered to you poolside, which is pretty much the vacation dream. If you forgot your pool floaties or goggles at home, head to the shop in the lobby for everything you might need.
Sandy toes more your thing? The beach at Velas Vallarta is right beyond the pool and easy to access from your suite. Shaded lounge chairs are available if you want to set up camp for the day.
In addition to 24-hour room service, Velas Vallarta has top-notch dining with plenty of variety for kids. For breakfast, head down to Restaurante La Ribera where you can enjoy Mexican favorites like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles while you watch the waves crash nearby. We recommend getting your lunch served poolside with taquitos topping the favorites list for both kids and parents. Upscale dinner vibes are on tap at Restaurante Andrea where the menu changes from Asian to Italian and more depending on the night.
Kids Club at Velas Vallarta
Velas Vallarta
Kids ages 4 to 12 can take part in activities through the on-site Kids Club, all included as part of your stay. With water balloon fights, stone painting, board games, and mini disco on the agenda, we know the kids won't want to leave. Kids Club hours run from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. with a break for lunch. You can even get in an early dinner sans kids if you want.
Activities at Velas Vallarta
Velas Vallarta
If keeping busy is how you enjoy a family vacation, you can definitely lean in to all the activities offered at Velas Vallarta like karaoke nights, circus shows, Spanish lessons, and crafts. Early risers can join in beachside yoga to set the mood for the day. While the kids are at Kids Club, book some time at the on-site spa for relaxation and rejuvenation. There are also tennis and pickleball courts, a fitness room, and a nearby golf course.
If you time your visit right, you might even get to join in a sea turtle release as there's a protected nest right near the resort!
Things to Do near Velas Vallarta
Kate Loweth
When you are ready to venture off-property, the hotel can arrange transportation to get you to the trendy Zona Romántica or wherever you'd like to visit. For a feel of a real neighborhood with a central square, church, and shops, head to Pitillal and spend a few hours walking the town. The kids will love all the paleta vendors (go for the melon for a refreshing treat) and you can snag some huaraches to bring home with you.
Getting to Puerto Vallarta and the Resort
Kate Loweth
Velas Vallarta is conveniently located next to Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport and you can easily take direct flights there from Dallas, LA, SF, and many other U.S. cities. You can prearrange pickup from the airport with the resort for less than $20 and they will have VIP Transfers waiting for you upon arrival. This is key when traveling with kids because the airport can be a bit hectic and overwhelming after a long flight. A 15-minute ride will have you at the resort in no time with a margarita to welcome you.
Avoid a hefty cellphone bill, maximize your kids club time, and get the excursions you want on your next family cruise
Taking a cruise seems like an easy vacation, right? Pack your stuff, get on a ship, and let the fun come to you. While we’d love to tell you this is all there is to it, in reality, there are variables that’ll make or break your entire trip. We’ve gathered a few cruise tips and tricks that will take your vacation from good to unforgettable (show times matter), so before you pack it up and head to the open seas, double-check our list that’ll have you prepped and ready to sail with your crew.
Cruise Tip 1: Do your research.
Gabby Cullen
Your kids’ age will play a role in which cruise you decide to book. Cruise lines offer different amenities, so look at companies and packages before booking your trip. For example, Disney Cruise Line is one of the best for families with kids ages ten and under, while Royal Caribbean has fun and entertainment that tends to be more appealing for teens and young adults. Holland America Line offers loads of local information and learning opportunities so that you really get to know the area you are visiting.
Cruise Tip 2: Book your excursions in advance.
This is part of the research, but it’s just as important. Decide which excursions are appropriate for your kids’ ages and book them before you get on the ship. If you wait until you arrive at a port town, the tours, water sports, and other adventures are often completely booked.
Cruise Tip 3: Pay attention to dining and show times when booking your cruise.
This is important to consider when cruising with kids. Do your kids need to eat early? Are they good with a kiddie dinner and evening at the kids club? Do you want to eat and then see a show as a family? These are all questions you’ll need to ask yourself (and your kids) before you book your dinner time.
Cruise Tip 4: Arrive at your disembarkation port a day early (at least).
Getting off an airplane and on a cruise ship on the same day can be incredibly stressful. If possible, arrange to arrive a day ahead of time. That way, you’ll be calm and ready to go when it’s time to board the ship.
Cruise Tip 5: Pack a carry-on bag for embarkment day.
Your luggage will be taken on board ahead of you and dropped off at your stateroom, but you might not have access to it for several hours. Pack your carry-on accordingly; swimsuits, snacks, sunscreen, diapers, and a change of clothes.
Cruise Tip 6: Download the cruise app.
This will give you tons of important information: what restaurants are open, which shows are playing and when, when activities are happening, and what you need to know when you get on and off the ship at a port. Usually, this is also where you can add your credit card information, view your cruise folio via the app and sign up for excursions and events that come with extra charges,
Most cruise ships have great kids’ club that stays open late. Your kids will be under constant supervision and constantly entertained with games, challenges, arts and crafts, and more. Some cruise line kids’ clubs will even escort your child to and from dinner for you.
Cruise Tip 8: Check the dress code.
Some cruise lines require upscale dress codes for certain nights. Some dress codes vary by night and dining location.
The onboard restaurants open and close at various times of the day, but there is always something to eat if your family is hungry. And, if you can’t find something, head back to your stateroom for room service. Many cruise lines offer a 24-hour service.
Cruise tip 10: Consider the tight living arrangements.
Unless you’re splurging on a suite, you’ll likely have a family stateroom, which isn’t usually very roomy. You’ll have to fit everyone, and the luggage, in this small space, so talk about being respectful and staying tidy before you go. You might also consider bringing storage organizers like an over-the-door shoe hanger or packing cubes with outfits already picked out, so you can store the suitcases for the duration of your trip. This is a situation where the answer to the never-ending vacation question of “to unpack or not unpack” is to unpack.
Cruise Tip 11: Keep your phone on airplane mode.
There’s nothing worse than coming home from a cruise to a massive cellphone bill. Whether you plan to use the ship’s WiFi or not, as soon as you get onboard, put your cellphone in airplane mode. This way you won’t accidentally start roaming while at sea. This can be a very expensive lesson to learn.
Cruise Tip 12: Save room in your suitcase and get the laundry service.
If your ship offers a laundry service, it can really be a space saver for your luggage. Usually, there’s a 24-hour turnaround and everything comes back fresh and folded. On a recent one-week Holland America Line cruise, this service cost $49 for the entire week. Very reasonable!
Cruise Tip 13: Make note of the embarkation times.
Don’t be those people you can see all over YouTube literally RUNNING for their cruise ship as it takes off from the dock. Embarkation times are not a suggestion. Make sure you allow plenty of time to return to the ship on port days.
If you’re the person who starts blasting Christmas tunes right after Halloween and you’re ready to up the ante, we’ve got the challenge for you. Hotels.com is giving away 25 free hotel nights, but you have to survive 24 straight hours of holiday music to claim the prize!
“Last Christmas” may not have been a “White Christmas” but it’s still “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year.” “Do They Know It’s Christmas” without “Silver Bells” and “Underneath the Tree?” If All You Want For Christmas is a Not-So-Silent Night then head to Hotels.com to enter. The entry includes your written submission on why you would survive and thrive in a room blasting Christmas tunes. Video optional, but encouraged!
The lucky(?) participant will stay a night in the extremely festive holiday hotel suite, where the music never stops. In the morning, Lance Bass will croon you a wake up call if you’ve somehow managed to fall asleep to “Jingle Bell Rock” and “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer.” Once the 24 stay is completed, the winner will receive the 25 nights deposited into a rewards account, a $1,000 travel stipend and a $500 room service credit.
If you don’t manage to secure this one-of-a-kind experience, Hotels.com has plenty of other holiday stays to choose from. And check out our list of winter wonderlands where you can carol to your heart’s content!
For Mother’s Day this year, I have a request. Sure, I’ll take a card and flowers, maybe even a macaroni necklace. But before the mental load is placed on me to decide how I want to spend the day, or where I want to be taken for dinner, let me make it easy.
Here’s what I want for Mother’s Day: I would like just a single day of alone time.
I am 46. I work full-time and have a few side gigs. In my house with me lives my 2 ½-year-old son, husband, a couple of dogs, my parents and an apex predator goldfish who recently Jeffrey Dahmered six of its siblings. My husband and I, like so many, haven’t seen the inside of our offices in 13 months. My make-shift office at home used to be a section of my bedroom designated for work. It has slowly morphed into an office with a section designated for sleep.
I haven’t gained the COVID-19. I rounded it up to 20 instead for good measure. I’m currently wearing old maternity stretch pants while I write this because nothing else fits. Including my wedding rings. Having a baby at almost 44 has me simultaneously riding the waves of both toddlerhood and perimenopause, and let me tell ya—they go together like oil and water. I’m pretty sure I could use a higher dose of my anti-anxiety meds prescribed to me following my son’s birth, because, well, see previous sentence.
Speaking of him, he’s been gone from school all week with the croup that has turned into a sinus infection that has turned into a head cold. He has no idea why he’s not at school though and doesn’t care. He’s having way too much fun climbing daddy like a tree while he’s on a conference call, and eating dog kibble right out of the bin because, as he says, “mmm, it’s so tasty.” At least it’s high-quality dog food, and probably better than the crap he’s actually willing to eat lately.
I love my people SO MUCH, but please, for the love of God, Mama needs a little tiny break.
What I want isn’t new. I’m not reinventing the wheel. Moms have been taking ‘mom trips’ for years, gathering their own mothers or girlfriends together for a good time; trading yoga pants, eye patches and “more coffee” emblazoned mugs for their old fancy heels, makeup and big ole glasses of wine. All of a sudden, Instagram is fired up with group photos from the #kidsfree #girlstrip with shots, karaoke, facials and more wine in the hot tub. But let’s be honest: everyone is still in bed at a reasonable time.
That sounds fun, but it’s not exactly what I want. For 24 hours, I want to be left alone. I want to check into a hotel room and faceplant onto the bed. I want to sleep in, order my own damn room service, watch Bravo and Hallmark channels, take a long skin peeling hot bubble bath and not be texted, touched or asked any questions. Not a single one. Is that too much to ask? If it makes my absence feel better, I’ll wear the macaroni necklace the whole time. Even in the tub.
Why do I and so many others need this? Well, for starters, a 2019 study of parenthood in four wealthy countries found that U.S. mothers have it the worst. And that study concluded before the COVID-19 pandemic started and things got really bad.
Women are drowning in stress, juggling a lot of balls in the air at any one time, trying to figure out which balls are rubber, capable of bouncing back if dropped, and which ones are glass. Between February and December 31, 2020, nearly 3 million women left the workforce due to the pandemic. The rubber vs glass balls analogy indicates that the career ball is rubber and will bounce back. But the pandemic rages on, so only time will tell if it was glass after all.
Do you fantasize about disappearing for a few hours or a night? Then do it. Whether that means a night at the Ritz Carlton, the Motel 6 or on the couch of your best friend with no kids. Now’s the time to pull together those hotel and credit card points and convert them into a free night somewhere. Cash in on those favors people owe you and ask one of them to babysit. Those friends who have said throughout the years, “Let me know how I can help.” Well, now they can! Send the kids to their house and unplug at your own, if not for a night, then a few hours.
My girlfriend Laura Washburn of Crownsville, MD has done this for herself a couple of times. “About once every six months, I check myself into a hotel alone for the night. Preferably one with a water view and room service,” she said. “I’m immensely grateful for my life, my loved ones and my career but as a professional, mom, stepmom, wife, daughter, aunt, sister, friend and household manager, someone always needs something from me. In those 24 hours, I’m just me again. Being responsible only for myself is freeing.”
For Mother’s Day this year, another friend has asked for what she calls: “Live like my husband day,” where she can “enjoy my kid when I want to, and then just walk away at will and not be responsible for any of her care.”
There’s a reason why airlines tell you that in an emergency situation, fasten your oxygen mask before you help others fasten theirs. We are no good to anyone if we ourselves are out of gas. Dads and partners: are you reading this? Help a mom out. Help her take care of herself, so she can get back to taking care of everyone else. In the end, everyone will benefit from this gift.
Political affairs pro, freelance writer, Philly native, dog and human mom, Key West obsessed, former Capitol Hill staffer, one-time stand-up comic, fledgling novelist, side hustler, beauty products junkie. Lives in MD with her husband Josh, son Huckleberry and two giant retriever lap dogs named Frank and Stein. Connect with me here: https://aimeelubin.com/
