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.
It’s no newsflash that traveling with kids can be a challenge, especially during the holidays. Before you get too worked up about that upcoming long-haul flight or road trip with kids, we’ve compiled a list of great travel gear for families that will make getting from Point A to Point B easier, safer, and hopefully, more fun! From carry-on cases that double as strollers to disposable covers that sanitize airplane trays, these are some of our travel favorites.
Keep>Going First Aid Kit
A mini first aid kit is definitely something you should throw into your carry-on for the next trip. These packs have everything you need from minor boo-boos to dealing with splinters and torn clothes. Their handy zippered container comes in loads of prints and includes a carabiner (which can be surprisingly helpful for lots of travel situations). The Go Kit is a great size for travel with kid-approved bandages included. There’s also an adult kit if you prefer neutral skin-toned bandages.
Organization is key when traveling and you’ll want to be prepared for anything that might arise. Pilly Pal keeps your medications and vitamins organized in a too-cute snapping container. You can use their stickers to designate which items are included in each slot so you don’t have to remember. There’s nothing worse than having to run to the store while on vacation so this is a must-include in your carry-on backpack.
We can’t be the only ones who say all screentime rules are out the window when traveling. The Pocket Tripod is great to keep in your wallet as it is as small as a credit card and will set up your phone or tablet for kid viewing while on the airplane. It easily adjusts to devices of different thicknesses and it works great to snap that perfect family pic while you’re out and about.
If you've ever watched your little jet-setter try to play with her toys on an airplane, you know all too well the pain of collecting LEGO or crayons from a dirty plane floor. Enter the Lusso Gear Kids Tray Cover, a strap-on tray that keeps tray tables covered and toys (hopefully) off the ground. The tray has a raised border on all sides to keep sippy cups, LEGO, crayons, etc., from rolling right off mid-flight, and the strap on bottom keeps the whole thing from sliding. The Lusso Gear Tray Table Cover tray also solves the problem of your child eating snacks straight from the dirty tray table. It can also be rolled up and tucked away, which means it's just as useful at your final destination as it is on the journey.
Got a long flight planned? Maybe you really need to do the red-eye, but the thought of traveling with restless toddlers has stopped you? It doesn’t have to anymore! The JetKids by STOKKE Bedbox is a ride-on suitcase that converts into a bed in a regular coach seat. Seriously! If you’ve got a baby or toddler, the lay-flat bed feature of the BedBox makes it totally worth the price. For older kids, stick with the basic "Ridebox" (it's the same suitcase; it just doesn't have the bed converting apparatus inside), which will give your kids a set of wheels (and a suitcase) to zip around the airport. Kids can safely use the ride-on until they're about 77 lbs.
Is it a suitcase or a scooter? It’s both! For any parent who has ever had to lug their own child’s suitcase because he is just “too tired,” and for any parent who has felt that fear of missing the flight because of the snail’s pace of airport walking: the Zinc Flyte is your new favorite thing. It comes in three sizes: the mini for ages two to four, the midi for ages four to eight and the soon-to-be-released maxi for ages eight and up. The best part? It actually makes travel even more fun for kids! We can actually see this becoming a thing for kids who walk to school each day. Learn more about it here.
You have a special seat for your kiddo in the car, why not extend that to the airplane? The Cares Harness keeps young children buckled up safely with the same sort of four-point harness used in baby and toddler car seats. Consequently, it keeps kids from sliding out of their seats during unexpected bumps—and it can help kids feel more secure in the air (which means they may actually sleep on the flight!). Plus, the whole thing weighs less than a pound and fits in your purse when not in use.
Want to give your toddler a fun way to speed around the airport—without the need for a stroller? Try this nifty invention that makes getting kids to your gate on time way cooler than walking. The Luggage Eazy carry-on (made by the same company that makes Micro scooters) is just like a regular roller suitcase—with one big difference: The top of the case has a built-in seat, so your child can hop on and catch a ride whenever you want to get things going. Rolling your tot around like luggage is way easier than you'd think, thanks to the tripod-style swivel (third) wheel that pops out from the back when your child wants to use the seat. There's also an easy place for your child to prop her feet so that she's perfectly balanced, with no dangling limbs, while in motion.
Note: The seat is designed to fit kids from 18 months to four years old.
Want to travel with your toddler but NOT your toddler's bulky toddler car seat? The hifold by mifold car seat is here to help. The hifold is a high-back booster seat that folds down small enough to fit in a small carry bag. Not only is it "the most compact, lightweight highback booster ever," it also meets worldwide safety standards and complies with car seat regulations worldwide. If you’ve got older kids—at least four years of age and weighing 40 lbs or more—the mifold the Grab-and-Go Booster is a great option. It folds up to roughly the size of a paperback novel (not kidding about this at all—it is 10x smaller than the average booster and just as safe) and can tuck right into your suitcase or purse. It’s tested and meets regulatory approval in the U.S., U.K. and most other countries. We like it for those times when the rental car seat fails or you’re just not sure who is picking you up at the airport!
Headphones are essential for any flight, but what are kids to do when their free airplane earbuds keep falling out of—or not fitting into—their tiny ear canals? Try a pair of CozyPhones! These fleece-encased headphones look like wraparound ear muffs and keep the small speakers right on top of your tot's ears without sliding out or falling off—and without getting so loud the music hurts her eardrums. Plus, they're super comfy (kids can fall asleep without that bulky push of plastic headphones), come in a variety of animal-themed designs, and will keep your kids a little warmer on those long chilly flights. And, they come in grown-up versions, too!
JL Childress Spinner Wheelie Deluxe Car Seat Travel Bag
J.L. Childress
Lugging a traditional toddler car seat through the airport can be a workout—and checking your beloved seat with your luggage leaves it open to scratches, dings and grime from who-knows-what it may encounter in transit. Not with the Spinner Wheelie Deluxe Car Seat Travel Bag, which works as both an easy roller and protective cover for your kid's car seat. You'll glide through airports, train stations and cruise terminals with ease thanks to the bag's unique combination of full padding and 360-degree spinner wheels. And, if you're checking the car seat, the bag will protect your child’s car seat from damage, dirt, moisture and germs. Additional features include a top carry handle and a clear ID card pocket.
Additional reporting by Melissa Heckscher, Gabby Cullen & Amber Guetebier
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Getting to your destination can be part of the adventure when you have this handy list of car games in your back pocket
If you’re heading out on a road trip soon and want to ensure that the trip will be spent making memories with the kids (screen-free fun in the car is possible!), then we’ve got a list of car games just for you. To make your journey as enjoyable as possible, you’ll want to print out this list of easy games to play in the car. They don’t require any special gear, there are no pieces to lose, and they’re actually fun for parents and kids alike. Be sure to check out our list of road trip hacks that’ll make the drive even easier. Win, win, win!
1. The Alphabet Game: Find all the letters of the alphabet on things you pass along the highway. Variation: limit your finds to license plates or road signs to make it harder.
2. I Spy: This road trip classic has players starting with a vague clue like, “I spy something that moves” and the other players guessing from there. Only yes or no questions are allowed. Tip: put a limit to the number of questions so the rounds don’t go on for eternity.
4. Fortunately/Unfortunately: This story-creation car game for kids starts with a sentence like, “Mom came home with a chocolate cake.” The next person has to continue the story with fortunately like, “Fortunately, it had sprinkles on it.” Turn passes to the next person who uses unfortunately like, “Unfortunately, they were made of wax.” Hilarity ensues.
5. Story Volley: A similar game is story volley where you take turns creating a story back and forth between two (or more) players. This one can go on forever!
6. Open-ended Questions: Learn a little more about your car companions with this game where you can ask any question you like. Good ones to start with: What’s your favorite animal? What superpower do you wish you had? What TV character are you most like?
7. Alphabet Game (Version 2): The flow of this game is to use this phrase, “My name is ______ and I’m married to _______. We live in ______ and are shopping for ________.” All words have to start with the letter you are on like, “My name is Amy and I’m married to Al. We live in Arkansas and are shopping for apples.” Then you move on to B.
8. Letter, Word, or Sentence Guessing Game: For back seat players only, you have one kid draw a letter, word, or sentence (depending on age) on the other player’s back. Try to guess what was drawn.
9. License Plate Bingo: Using a little notebook to keep track, try and find all the state license plates. This game can carry over from road trip to road trip as who has ever seen a Hawaii plate outside of Hawaii? Parents should be ready to verify any rare sightings (to prevent cheating).
10. 20 Questions: This game has you thinking of an item while your opponent has to guess what it is. Limit your questions to 20 so you don’t go totally insane. This game knows how it is to travel with kids, clearly. For little kids, you can limit it even further to a category like animals.
11. The Name Game: Good for teens and tweens, this game has you name a celebrity like Oprah Winfrey and the next person has to take the first letter of that celebrity’s last name to start their turn and name another celebrity like Will Smith.
12. Hot Sauce or Chocolate: A variation on this or that, this game has you choose which item between two that you’d rather give up. Start with hot sauce or chocolate, choose one (clearly chocolate is the one to keep) and the next person has to add another to the pair like peanut butter so now you’re choosing between chocolate and peanut butter.
13. The Vacation Memory Game: This is a fun car game for kids! The first person starts with, “I’m going on a vacation and I’m going to bring . . . ” and then they choose an item like sunscreen. The second person starts, “I’m going on a vacation and I’m going to bring sunscreen and . . .” and chooses a second item like beach towels. The game continues until someone messes up the order and forgets an item. You can make it trickier by going in alphabetical order.
14. Count the Item: Choose an item like an American flag, tractor, or Starbucks sign and see how many your crew can find while on your journey.
15. Yes-No-Black-White: In this car game for kids, one player is the questioner and one the answerer. The questioner asks a question, trying to get the answerer to say the words “yes, no, black or white.” The answerer needs to answer verbally and truthfully, without using the forbidden words.
16. The Animal Name Game: The first player picks an animal like a squirrel. The second player has to pick an animal that starts with the last letter of the prior animal, like “lion.” And on and on!
17. Skittles: In this game, you are looking for the holy grail: the yellow vehicle. See one and yell, “Skittles!” and get one point. You may have to set your own rules about whether yellow farm equipment and buses count or should be excluded (as a fleet of school buses could cause an early end to your gameplay).
18. Cheers to the Governor (the kid version): This is a collaborative memory game you can play in the car to get to a certain number. So, if your goal is to get to 21, you start by counting one by one in order. You start with one rule, usually that 7 and 11 are switched (instead of saying 7 the person who is supposed to say 7 will say 11, and the person who should say 11 will say 7). If you make it through all the numbers, someone makes up a new rule (clap twice instead of saying three, make an animal noise instead of 15), and start counting back at 1 with the new rule. If someone misses a rule, you start back at one. The goal is to get to the point where all of the numbers are replaced with rules.
19. State Capitals: Good for all you geography fans, get the kids to list the state capitals. You can do it in alphabetical order or quiz style.
20. Cows and Graveyards: You get a point for every cow you spot on your side of the car. Spot a graveyard and lose all points.
21. Name That Tune: Play a snippet of a song from the radio and try and guess the song and artist.
22. Restaurant Race: Each player gets a restaurant like McDonalds, Taco Bell, or Burger King and players count how many of their restaurants they can find along the way.
23. Rock-Paper-Scissors: This is a classic hand game that’s a perfect game to play in the car. Two players shoot rock (fist), paper (flat hand), or scissors (the peace sign) on the count of 1,2,3… shoot! Paper beats rock, rock beats scissors, and scissors beats paper. Try the best of three, or just keep playing down the road.
Our All-Time Favorite Games to Play in the Car
24. Off Limits: In this game, you choose words or phrases that are “off limits” like family member’s names, “hungry” or “are we there yet?” (Brilliant!)
25. The Quiet Game: The player who is quiet the longest wins! Save this one for when you are really desperate.
These backpacks and suitcases will make you actually look forward to traveling with your kids
Traveling is fun, but traveling with kids? Let’s just say it isn’t always a dream come true. That’s why having luggage that works for you is a must. From versatile backpacks and lightweight carry-ons to large suitcases that pack tons of room for several kiddos, we’ve rounded up the best travel gear for parents. Keep scrolling to get prepped for your next family vacation!
If you’ve ever boarded an airplane with a baby, you know that the amount of stuff a small person needs is in inverse proportion to their size. Diapers, wipes, a change of clothes for all parties, snacks, a breast pump, and more and more and more—they all need to fit into your carry-on bag. That’s where No Reception Club comes in to save the day. The narrow shape makes it easy for any parent to carry and the stylish black exterior makes it more of an everything bag than a diaper bag. Our favorite feature is the flexible organization system with two “shelves” that velcro securely into the main compartment.
Just because you're carting around diapers and burp cloths, doesn't mean you want to give up on style. We love this backpack because it has enough structure to protect your laptop plus space for snacks and an outfit change for both you and your kid. It also has our favorite feature: the luggage pass-through.
Looking to ditch the suitcase entirely? This bag is for you. Roll up your clothes and you can easily fit enough to get you and your tiny travel partner through a long weekend or more. We like this option for parents traveling solo with a kid because it keeps your hands free to push a stroller or tend to a little one.
You only need one bag when traveling––this one! Solo New York’s hybrid backpack easily transforms into a tote bag with hideaway straps that will meet your complete itinerary needs. Our editors love the padded laptop compartment, ample interior pockets and a back panel that slides over your luggage handle to make those airport runs a breeze. The lightweight bag also comes with padded feet to protect the bottom while on the go and stylish gold hardware.
Not only does this backpack look super stylish, but it’s made with water-resistant polyester, has an interior spot for a laptop and five interior pockets for chargers, books, pens and more. There’s a secret side pocket to keep your phone, and there’s a clip in the front pocket that is perfect for keys. The pull cord on the interior lining adds extra protection from theft while traveling too.
Available in coral orange and ocean blue, this adorable backpack will be your go-to carryon choice as it has just the right amount of pockets for all your gear and plenty of space to store those extra diapers and snacks you always need.
While not an official backpack, this tote does it all. Don’t schlep 3 bags through the airport when she can have just one that does it all! A Black + Woman-owned brand known for their bag with all the room you need to pack your necessities, the Minkeeblue Nilah tote offers zippered compartments that keep shoes and other essentials separate from other items, making it the perfect solution for working or traveling moms looking to make life easier.
This sleek tech organizer keeps all your cords and electronics in one place! This would even fit perfectly in any of the backpacks above. The Bee & Kin Tech Organizer is perfect for traveling or while on the go for work. If you need help with keeping your things in one place, this is sure to do the trick!
If you need help keeping your belongings together as you zip around the airport, then you’ll love this Travel Belt! All you has to do is neatly secure your personal bag to your carry-on or checked luggage handle!
Breeze through the airport with the sleek and durable Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Hardside Spinner fro Travelpro. This lightweight option makes it possible for littles to transport it themselves due to the exclusive PrecisionGlide™ System, made up of 8 MagnaTrac® self-aligning wheels. Plus, each one comes with extrenal USB A & C ports that can connect to your own power bank.
We love this 20" carry-on as it easily stores your laptop on the zip-down side so you don't have to carry it in your backpack. It also has plenty of room for 3-5 days worth of clothes. The hard shell will stand up to wear and tear and the spinner wheels made for a smooth ride through the airport.
If you are short on space to store your luggage at home, this is the luggage for you. It collapses to 4 inches for east stowing under your bed. Plus, you'll love the seven color options.
Your luggage takes a beating no matter how expensive it is, so why not opt for a budget-worthy option that still gets the job done? Our editors love the no muss, no fuss luggage from Amazon Basics that bring simple yet functional style to your travels. This hybrid bag is large enough to carry what you need, but small enough to fit as a carry on when you don’t want to check luggage. It has internal organization, a front tilting pocket, spinner wheels and a two-level adjustable, ergonomic handle.
Traveler’s Choice New London II Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage
The sleek look of this bag is just part of the draw but its functional features have us bringing it with us whenever we travel. Pack it with the expanders closed and you’ll have plenty of space to add on souvenirs to bring home. The zippers are super sturdy and will stand up to lots of use.
Best Checked Luggage for Parents
Atlantic Convertible Medium to Large Checked Expandable Hardside Spinner
You'll love the colorful options in this collection (Sunshine Yellow! Coral Orange! Ocean Blue!) and its ability to expand to fit all those souvenirs you just HAD to have. Two handle heights means the kids can take a turn pulling it.
Away luggage is the crème de la crème when it comes to traveling. This particular suitcase checks all the boxes: nice medium size, water resistant exterior, expansion capabilities for up to an extra 1.75″ of space plus an internal compression system so you can squeeze in everything you need.
We love the split design of this luggage that has two same-sized compartments, perfect for opening on that luggage rack in your hotel room. It comes in carry-on and large carry-on (to accommodate international carry-on rules), as well as medium and large sizes for checked baggage.
Luggage has gone through a transformation over the years and that means no more crazy heavy bags that break your back before you even pack! This huge suitcase is one of our favorites because it only weighs eight pounds and is large enough to pack multiple people’s worth of clothes. It’s a spinner, has an adjustable handle and plenty of room to pack everything you need.
This work horse of a suitcase packs a ton of bells and whistles. From a built-in lock and integrated interior pouches to the two-inch expandable zipper, you can stash all your gear for your vaycay and then some!
—additional reporting by Gabby Cullen & Karly Wood
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
These all-inclusive resorts have amazing kids club programs that are included with your stay
Thinking of heading to the Dominican Republic with your family? You definitely should! It’s a quick flight from the East Coast and offers some of the most gorgeous beaches, welcoming people, and delicious food in the Caribbean. Club Med is an easy choice for families as it is truly all-inclusive. You can have them book everything from your flights to your airport transfers and excursions so you don’t even have to think about anything beyond packing your suitcase.
Club Med offers two properties in the Dominican Republic: Club Med Punta Cana and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. Which of these all-inclusive properties is best for families? We have the full scoop on both and a tip on how you can even enjoy both on the same vacation!
Club Med Punta Cana
Club Med
Club Med Punta Cana is the brand’s flagship family property and you can see the focus on kids before you even arrive. Once your reservation is booked and paid in full, you can sign your kids up for the Mini Club program that offers a full-day kids club experience. Activities like crafts, tennis, archery, circus school, and so much more are included for ages 4 and up at Club Med. For kids under age 4, on-demand care is available for an additional fee. You can even get care for your kids during dinner hours so they can head off with their friends while you enjoy a quiet meal with your partner.
The property’s Mini Club facilities were quite impressive. There’s a zero-entry splash zone for cooling off when the temps creep up. Rooms for dining and activities along with playground equipment are also available. While we were on the property, we saw tons of kids participating in everything from water games to a pirate scavenger hunt!
Accommodations at Club Med Punta Cana
We stayed in the two-bedroom family room while at Club Med Punta Cana and it was very well-appointed for families of up to five people. There’s a parent room with a king-size bed and bathroom, along with a couch that can be arranged as a bed for a child if needed. A separate bedroom with two twin beds for the kids has plenty of storage area and a door that closes. There’s also a second bathroom in the hallway and a balcony. The family rooms are conveniently located in the middle of the property with easy access to Mini Club and the main restaurant, Hispaniola.
Club Med
If you have a baby coming along with you, the Club Med Baby Welcome Kit can be reserved in advance without additional cost and it comes with a baby bathtub, bottle warmer, changing table, umbrella bed, and stroller (this is also available at Michès).
In addition to the family accommodations, you can upgrade your stay to the Exclusive Collection space where you’ll have even more room to spread out. This part of the resort offers room service for breakfast, as well as a private pool and bar.
Head to the Zen Oasis when the kids are at Mini Club for some time in the adults-only pool. Accommodations are also available in this more secluded area of the property if you are traveling without little ones.
Dining at Club Med Punta Cana
Club Med
Club Med Punta Cana has three restaurants available as part of the all-inclusive package. Hispaniola is your go-to spot for buffet dining which kids really love. Breakfast is our favorite with the omelette station taking top marks, but the dinner buffet with the chocolate fountain is a kid favorite. Hispaniola offers a gorgeous oceanfront view, was recently renovationed, and is open for all three meals.
For a la carte service with ocean views, Indigo is your spot. We especially enjoyed our dinner at Indigo with perfectly grilled meats and delicious sides. The Dominican offerings like the curry plate were also quite tasty. Samana Restaurant was closed for yearly maintenance during our stay but it offers a variety of cuisines including Caribbean, French, Italian, Asian, and more.
Things to Do at Club Med Punta Cana
If you want a full day of activities, Club Med Punta Cana is ready to provide. The Club Med app will lay out all the activities available for the day from organized beach volleyball games to power walking. There are different nightly performances and the Michael Jackson show was particularly fun.
Before you arrive, check out the themes for the nights you’ll be there. This ranges from white night to black/gold or floral. We were surprised how much the guests got into this while we were there! It’s not mandatory of course but most people would dress up in that night’s theme before they headed to dinner. It brings a festive vibe to the dining and nightly activities.
During the day, you can head to the beach for some time on the lounge chairs or watersports like snorkeling and sailing. Gear is available to check out but if your kids have their own goggles or floaties they like, you might want to bring them with you. We did find that the lobby shops were quite well stocked with anything we might have forgotten to bring with us.
Adults should definitely plan to spend some time at the onsite spa while you are there. Services like massages and facials are available for an additional cost but we think it’s definitely worth it for access to the gorgeous indoor/outdoor spa space. You can even book a couple’s massage with a view of the ocean.
Getting to Club Med Punta Cana
If you are looking for convenience, this is the spot for you. Fly into Punta Cana International Airport and then grab your shuttle to the resort. The property is located just a 20-minute drive from the airport so you don’t have a long van ride after your flight. Couldn’t be easier!
Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is an oasis in the Dominican jungle and you’re going to want to check it out. A 1.5-hour shuttle ride will get you from the airport to this Exclusive Collection property and you’ll be impressed by your gorgeous surroundings from the minute you walk through the open-air lobby and are treated to a refreshing drink.
At Michès, you’ll find the service to be elevated from access to a pre-arrival concierge to the superior room amenities. All rooms have access to breakfast room services which is very convenient when traveling with kids.
Club Med Michès is focused on sustainability and they even have a water bottling facility on-site, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles. You will find glass bottles available in your room and they replace them as you use them throughout your stay. You can also find bottle-filling stations around the property.
Accommodations at Club Med Michès
Club Med
Four villages make up the accommodations and you’ll find a different vibe in each. Explorer Cove is where we stayed and it had good access to the main area of the resort with pool, as well as the Mini Club and beach. Families will enjoy the Deluxe Family Room which has an adult room with a bathroom, a separate room with two twin beds for the kids, plus a second bathroom. Limited snacks and beverages are available in the in-room fridge and you’ll have a Nespresso machine as well.
Other areas of the property include Caribbean Paradise (a colorful area for families and couples), Zen Oasis (a relaxing area for everyone), and Archipelago (an adult-exclusive area with suites). No matter where you stay, adults have access to the Zen Pool (pictured above). Believe us when we say that you won’t want to leave this area once you’ve seen it! This gorgeous green pool has lots of spots for sunbathing or reading in the shade, as well as a swim-up bar where you can get fresh-made smoothies or cocktails as you like. Claim one of the hammocks and you’ll be in heaven.
Mini Club at Club Med Michès
Club Med
Just like at the Punta Cana property, kids ages 4 and up have access to the Mini Club program at Michès with similar offerings like circus school, water play, crafts, theater, and more. Infants from 4 months and up can have booked care for an additional price. The splash pad in the Mini Club area is available to families even if you aren’t using Mini Club that day. The dump bucket was a huge hit as you can imagine!
Dining at Club Med Michès
Club Med
The gourmet food offerings at Michès really shine and you can see that from the moment you wake up. Head over to the coffee shop where you can find hot and cold coffee drinks, frozen yogurt, pastries, and small sandwiches.
The buffet at Cayuco had pretty much everything you could want from fresh fruit to Asian bowls to fresh-made pancakes. Adults dining without their kids can enjoy their meals in the adults-only area if they wish. Don’t miss Club Med’s signature white chocolate bread while you are there! Be sure you check the schedule for nights when they offer the Secret Chocolate Room experience. The kids will go wild when they learn that they can have as much chocolate as they can fit on their plates.
Coco Plum focuses on local specialties with many different seafood options as well as non-meat options. Try the fish tacos while you enjoy the waves crashing nearby.
Coal & Copper is the resort’s steakhouse that welcomes guests for an additional fee. We had an amazing meal here and the staff was very attentive. The portions are massive so make sure you are hungry when you arrive!
Things to Do at Club Med Michès
Take advantage of all the activities offered at Club Med Michès as there really is something for everyone. The treetop palapa is a lovely venue for morning yoga before you head to the nearby Zen Pool. Tennis lessons, fitness classes, watersports, circus lessons, and so much more are on the agenda. The tough part—balancing the relaxing with all the activities.
Club Med Michès has an excellent spa that we got to visit during our stay. Enjoy your time before or after your treatment trying out the three plunge pools that go from refreshingly cold to hot. Any way you like to relax is available here.
Nighttime brings all sorts of performances like traditional Dominican dancers and circus acts. Be sure to check the Club Med app for the schedule for the day so you know what to expect.
Things to Know about Visiting Club Med in the Dominican Republic
You can arrange a day trip to Club Med Punta Cana from Michès if you want to check out the other property. Some people even split their visit between the two properties if they want a little variety.
The mosquitos come out at dusk in Michès. The resort provides bug spray and sprays the property as well but keep that in mind if you are sensitive.
Mini Club can book up so if you are sure you want to use it during your stay, book it as soon as you arrive at the resort or in advance if possible.
Many families bring strollers or foldable wagons with them. Floaties for the swimming pool are also allowed (and sold at the gift shop at both locations).
Club Med does a great job welcoming families, setting space aside for parents to relax without their kids, and bringing visitors together for shows and parties. It really is quite the fun all-inclusive family vacation!
—images by the author except where noted.
Editor’s note: This trip was hosted by Club Med but all the opinions belong to the writer.
It’s all about the little things when it comes to flying with a baby
You want to go places, but let’s face it: Your little bundle of joy may not be so joyous 15,000 feet up. Never fear, there’s no need to put off travel! Whether you’re trying to figure out where to sit on the plane or what you need to bring in your carry-on, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about flying with a baby to make your family’s jet-setting experience a little less bumpy. And if you’re looking for destination inspiration, check out our top spots to visit before the kids grow up.
First Things First: At What Age Can Your Baby Fly?
You may be ready to show off your new addition to long-distance relatives, but pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is at least three months old—or had their first set of shots—before traveling by plane. Even though airplane air is filtered before it is recirculated, it is still a closed cabin full of people, and that might pose a challenge for brand-new immune systems. That said, common sense precautions are what doctors advise once babies are old enough to fly.
"In general, I think flying is relatively safe," said Los Angeles pediatrician Elle Raker. "I’d prefer everyone else was still masking, but unfortunately, that’s changed." Raker recommends maintaining social distancing when traveling, if possible, and keeping your hands and nearby surfaces clean while aboard the plane. That means sanitize, sanitize, sanitize! (Pssst: These airplane tray covers are super-convenient for keeping little fingers safe from dirty airplane trays!)
Booking Your Flight: The Best Time and Day to Fly with a Baby
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The flight you choose—what time and what day—can make all the difference when you've got a pint-sized plane partner. So follow these guidelines to set yourself up for smooth travels:
Book your flight for a Tuesday or Wednesday According to Airadvisor.com, flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are almost always cheaper and less filled than flights that bookend weekends or on Saturdays and Sundays. This means you'll have a better chance of having an empty seat next to you (which is like winning the lottery when it comes to flying with the fam).
Fly direct—or choose a long layover Ear pain tends to be worse on takeoff and landing—so minimize these painful times for your baby by choosing a direct flight! Flying direct also minimizes the number of dirty airport floors your little explorer will want to crawl all over. If you can't bear the thought of 17 hours on an airplane, try to book a layover that allows you to spend the night (or two!) in your layover city rather than just waiting at the airport. This gives you and your brood a chance to recoup and explore a new city. That's what Mommy travel blogger Carrie Bradley, former flight attendant and founder of FlyingWithABaby, advises. "I prefer breaking up the journey just so everybody can get some rest," Bradley said. "We like to take like 48 hours and make it a mini vacation."
Pick a morning flight Regardless of your baby's sleep schedule, Travel & Leisure says morning flights are the only flights you should book since they are the least likely to be delayed or canceled. Early morning flights are usually less bumpy, which means more time letting your little one out of the car seat to explore the cabin (a must for new walkers). If that isn't possible, and you've got a by-the-clock napper, book a flight that coincides with nap time.
Where to Sit On the Plane when Flying with a Baby
Laura Green
Where you sit on the plane matters! If you're able to choose your seats for the flight, here are some things to consider:
If it's an option, get a bassinet seat (located at the bulkhead seats) Got a baby under six months? Many long-haul or international flights offer travel bassinets that clip into the wall of the bulkhead seats. These can be lifesavers for harried parents (and exhausted infants). To score these seats, you'll need to book your seats super early. The rules vary by airline, but most bassinets are only available for infants under the age of one and less than 25 pounds. For details on where your chosen airline stands, check out this comprehensive list of bassinet seats on 50+ airlines.
Book a window and aisle seat and hope for an empty row Middle seats are always the last to be picked on a plane, so reserving a window and aisle ups the chances that you'll get all three seats to yourself (Note: You can even do this if you're flying with a family of four; just book two windows/aisle seats). You can always switch if someone does book that seat between you.
Don't put your baby in the aisle seat Passengers in the aisle are in the line of fire should luggage fall from the overhead bins during a flight (this happens more than you'd think, with an estimated 4,500 travelers hit by falling airplane luggage each year). These seats can also be risky for little ones who may get their fingers or feet pinched by carts coming through the aisles. Babies and children are safest in the middle or window seats.
Don't sit right next to the bathrooms, but don't sit too far away, either! Sitting too close to the bathroom means your sleeping baby may be startled awake by the crowd noise after mealtimes (when most people go to the bathrooms). But don't sit too far from one, either; you want to be able to dash to the changing table when blowouts strike.
Seats over the wing are the least turbulent If you are worried about turbulence, a seat near the wings will offer the smoothest ride. This makes a difference when you're trying to aim a little spoon into your finicky baby's mouth during feeding time.
Airport security lines aren't fun for anyone, but they're extra stressful when you're contending with wandering toddlers or fussy infants. Here are some tips to help you prepare for (or avoid!) the wait:
Formula & breast milk are allowed on your carry-on Nursing and pumping mamas, relax! According to TSA press secretary Carter Langston, you can bring your breast milk through the security lines—even if the baby is not with you at the time (such as if you're away on business and want to bring that "liquid gold" home for your baby). This is because the TSA considers formula and breastmilk "medically necessary liquids," which are allowed in carry-on baggage in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces (that's the limit on other, non-medically necessary liquids). As of July 2022, the TSA also updated its guidelines online to add that ice packs, freezer packs, gel ice packs, and similar items required to cool medically necessary liquids are also allowed through security.
Baby food is OK Food pouches and jars of baby food are also considered medically necessary, so they're also exempt from the 3.4 ounces rules.
It's easy to get TSA approved If you think getting TSA PreCheck status is a difficult process, we're here to tell you it's not! A quick online application and an in-person interview are all you need to do to get what is essentially a "fast pass" through the security lines. Even better, as long as your littles are under 13, they can whisk through security with you without needing their own TSA approval! Apply for the pass here: tsa.gov/precheck.
Kids don't have to take off their shoes If your kids are under 12, they don't have to remove their shoes when going through security.
Ask if there's a TSA Family screening line Many large airports have a special security line for families. The signage may not be obvious, so ask a security representative to direct you if you're not sure.
Take your baby out of her stroller or car seat This is another reason to keep your baby awake until you get aboard the plane. Babies must be carried through security (though they can be carried on you in a sling) with strollers and car seats going through the X-ray machine separately. (Strollers that don't fit through the X-ray machine will have to be inspected manually.)
Children under 18 don't need a passport or ID to fly in the United States—but they DO need a passport to fly internationally To apply for a passport, go to travel.state.gov to download the forms. And don't wait! According to the U.S. Passport Office, it takes 10-13 weeks to process a new passport and "expedited" passports take 4-6 weeks. You must bring your documents to your local passport office (you can't mail them in), and both parents need to be present (or have a notarized form saying why they're not).
Ultimate Supply List for Flying with a Baby
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Packing for a flight with babies and toddlers requires a LOT of prep work. Wipes? Check! Diapers? Check! Sanity? TBD. Here's a checklist of things to put in your carry-on when flying with a baby:
The Essentials:
Baby carrier/ sling - Even if you brought a stroller through the airport, a carrier is a great way to go hands-free in the airplane while your little one snoozes. Many a mom has strapped that baby to their bellies even when making a restroom trip. Trust us: you'll be happy to have your hands.
Pacifiers/comfort items - If your baby uses a pacifier, bring at least four of them on the plane (they WILL be dropped).
Breast milk, formula, baby food - Most airlines won't provide special meals for babies, so be sure you bring everything your baby will need for the flight (and extras in case there are any delays or if you're stuck on the tarmac).
Feeding supplies - Bibs, spoons, bottles, bowls (these bowls that stick to surfaces work great with the tray table)
Finger foods - Never underestimate the power of food to keep your baby busy. Light finger foods like puffs or teething crackers are great because they can keep on nibbling without getting too full.
Wipes - Separate from the wipes you'll put in your changing kit, an extra pack of wipes is essential for all those other times you'll be cleaning up your baby (and yourself).
Changing items - Diapers, wipes, changing pad. Bring double the number of diapers and wipes that your baby usually uses in the period you expect to be traveling. Tip: Keep all changing items in a separate bag (Ziploc bags work great) so you can easily grab them from your carry-on and dash to the bathroom.
Pull-ups, if your baby can stand - These make diaper changes way easier since you don't have to lay your toddler down on that tiny table in the tiny airplane bathroom.
Toys - For younger babies, rattles, teething toys, and other sensory toys will keep your baby entertained for short spurts; older kids may want books, dolls, or puppets.
Clips to keep toys/pacifiers from falling - If your baby is anything like every baby ever, they'll be tossing said comfort item overboard shortly after they get a hold of it. Toy clips like these are an easy fix.
Baby pain relief/medications - Bring a small "emergency bag" stocked with liquid baby pain relief (Tylenol for babies of any age; Advil for babies over six months), gas drops, and any medications your baby may need.
Burp cloths
Nursing pillow (we recommend the My Brest Friend) - This may be cumbersome to carry around, but it can work as a comfy bed for your baby post-feed (and you can pass the sleeping baby to your partner easily when your baby is asleep on the pillow) It also has an attached cup-holder for when Mom or Dad gets thirsty, too.
Sanitizing wipes/ tray covers - Your baby—and especially your toddler—will want to touch everything their little fingers can reach. So be sure to bring plenty of wipes and wipe down all nearby surfaces. For the trays, disposable tray covers are great, too.
Muslin cloth - These are great for covering babies when they're sleeping or as a nursing cover. They're also nice to cover the baby's head if they are getting overstimulated by the busy surroundings.
Blankets - One for comfort and warmth and another for the floor at the airport.
Extra clothes for baby AND parents (because blowouts happen!) - Choose clothes that are easy to take on and off (no buttons!) and bring layers for when the cabin swings from cold to hot and vice-versa.
Ziploc bags for wet/soiled clothes.
Car seat (and car seat stroller for the airport)- If you are buying your baby a seat (recommended, but not mandatory), bring your car seat so your baby has a comfortable, familiar place to nap. This also helps to get your baby (and your stuff) comfortably around the airport. You can gate-check the stroller part when you get on the plane, and it'll be ready for you when you step off.
Note: The American Academy of Pediatrics says the safest way for your baby to fly is in an FAA-approved car seat or airplane harness device approved for your child's age and size installed with the airplane's seat belt. Booster seats cannot be used on airplanes.
Gadgets Worth Buying (but not necessary)
Wraparound headphones - Older babies and toddlers will love being able to hear songs or stories with these wraparound fleece headphones that won't easily slide off and also keep your baby's head warm.
Lap baby - Carrie Bradley of Flyingwithababy.com called this "a really useful product for babies of all ages." It works like a seat belt to keep babies over three months secure on your lap so you can be hands-free and baby can be comfortable.
The Flyaway travel bed - This L-shaped inflatable mattress lets toddlers lie flat and sleep aboard the plane. It also works to fill the floor space so that items your toddler is playing with don't plunge into the abyss of the airplane floor. For a less-expensive option, these inflatable footrest pillows do the same thing.
Travel play tray - This tray attaches to the airplane tray table and has raised edges to keep small toys from sliding off the tray (it also covers that dirty tray table). It's also useful for toddlers who like to play with crayons or other small items.
Airline Perks You Should Know About When Flying with a Baby
Sure, flying with a baby can be a challenge—but it's not all a drag! Some airlines offer special perks to families traveling with babies and toddlers, including:
Baby and toddler meals Most airlines offer a kids' meal that you can order ahead of time, but only a few airlines (mostly international) will serve a specialized baby or toddler meal. These usually consist of jarred baby food or meals that are soft and easy to chew. Qantas, Air France, Emirates, Eva Air, Japan Airlines, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, and Singapore Airlines are some of the airlines that offer this, according to this article from Flyingwithababy.
Bassinet seats As mentioned above, many long-haul flights offer bassinets (mostly suitable for babies under one) that can clip into the bulkhead wall. These seats usually cost more, since they're in the bulkhead row, but are worth it for parents of finicky little sleepers.
Priority boarding for families When you hear that announcement that "families with young children are welcome to board," grab your roller suitcases and go! Getting all those essential carry-on items in position is crucial, especially if you'll have stuff in the overhead compartments that you'll need to access mid-flight. If you're worried about your antsy toddlers, traveling mommy blogger Samantha Brown recommends having one parent stay in the terminal with the kids while the other boards with the stuff. That way, the littles can run around, then get on the plane after getting all their wiggles out.
Free toys and activity kits You read that right—free toys! According to Conde Nast Traveler, Lufthansa, Emirates, Nippon Airways, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Etihad, and Japan Airlines are among those who give out free kits for tiny passengers. These kits can include everything from stuffed animals and stickers to play dough and puzzles. Just ask the flight attendant when you board.
Worst-Case Scenarios: What To Do If…
Your baby may be all smiles at the airport, but what do you do if everything changes mid-air?
Ear pain If your baby is crying and tugging at her ears—or if the crying started just as the plane took off—it could be an earache. Give your baby a pain reliever that's safe for their age—Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe at any age; Advil (ibuprofen) is safe for babies over six months. You can also ask the flight attendant for a cup of warm water and a washcloth; holding a warm, moist towel against the baby's ear may help relieve the pain. Also, keep your baby sucking or chewing since this can help equalize ear pressure.
*The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against giving Benadryl to children ages two and under unless it is directed by their doctors.
Vomiting If your child vomits while on the plane, the protocol is the same as if you were on land: give sips of breastmilk or formula (or water) to prevent dehydration. You can also ask the flight attendants for some washcloths to put on your child (and you) to keep the clothing changes and seat mess to a minimum. Thankfully, children under two rarely get motion sickness, so your chances that a bumpy flight will lead to a troubled tummy are small.
Teething Liquid pain relievers can help, as well as teething toys.
Nonstop crying If no amount of peekaboo, feeding, or rocking can ease your baby's cries, all you can do is try to relax. "Make sure you stay calm," says mommy blogger Jennifer Durban in this Howcast video. "If you're stressed out, your baby will be stressed out, so try your best to relax." She also suggested getting up and walking around the cabin. "It's amazing how fascinating a bathroom can be to a little one."
Remember: Flying with a Baby Is Only Temporary
You've packed. You've prepped. You've fed, rocked, and cuddled. Still, when it comes to air travel, it's anyone's guess how your new little human will react to the experience. So what do you do if nothing "works" and your baby is that baby, the one who cries the whole flight?
"I try to tell other parents you may think everybody is looking at you—and you may feel these eyes peering—but they’re not," said Bradley, who has taken her two young daughters on international flights since they were both infants. "You just relax and do your thing, and remember that it will end. It's not forever. Just concentrate on your family."
Bradley said it's also important to remember that it's not the kids who generally cause the most problems on board. "Sure, kids cry and it can be irritating—I get that," she said. "But it’s mostly fully grown adults we’ve had bigger problems with."
And she said it's OK for parents to ask the flight attendants for help. "Even if the flight crew aren’t parents, they can help. It’s what they do," she said, adding that, as a flight attendant, she held many a baby when the parents just needed a break to use the bathroom or have a bite to eat. "I would always tell parents, 'I'm happy to hold your baby.'"
Lounge access will start your trip off on the right foot, we promise
Flying with kids is not something anyone looks forward to. There are so many things that could go wrong from blowouts to inconsolable toddlers to forgotten pacifiers and uncharged devices. As a travel editor, I’ve taken hundreds of flights with my kids, and some I would rather forget (like the flight with my can’t-sit-still-toddler when it felt like I was wrestling a 40 lb. carp for 4+ hours).
I recently flew on Alaska Airlines with my three kids and was pleasantly surprised by all the thoughtful elements the airline offers to make traveling with kids a little bit easier. Here is what I learned about flying Alaska Airlines with kids and my recommendations for making your travel experience even more comfortable for the whole family (hello, lounge access!).
What you need to know about flying with kids on Alaska Airlines:
Alaska Airlines guarantees that kids 13 and under will be seated with at least one accompanying adult as long as you book your reservation together (and subject to some additional terms).
Preboarding is offered for families traveling with little ones aged two and under. Lap infants (under the age of two) also fly free!
Car seats and strollers fly free, so you don’t have to worry about paying baggage fees for these items.
Meals for kids on Alaska Airlines
When your flight is long enough to offer meal service, you’ll definitely want to pre-order one of the Kid’s Choice Picnic Packs for your little travelers. Not only do they come with kid favorites like Pirate’s Booty, applesauce, and gummi bears, but you’ll get a retro-fabulous Wikki Stix Play Pack to keep them busy from takeoff to landing. I’ve known a few adults who might enjoy playing with these as well!
Additional Alaska Airlines offerings to make your journey easy
Lounge Access Start your travel day off on the right foot by visiting an Alaska Lounge before your departure. Access to the lounge is included with certain ticket levels or you can purchase a day pass as available. I especially enjoy accessing an Alaska Lounge when traveling with my kids because they can fill up on snacks and have a quieter area of the airport to relax before boarding the plane. Be sure you look for the pancake machine as kids will get a huge kick out of it!
Elite Leave Program
There’s no denying it; having a baby can change you from a jet setter to a homebody in a flash. Alaska Airlines recognizes this and offers the Elite Leave Program to allow you to keep your Mileage Plan™ elite status for another year during your pregnancy or parental leave.
Fly for All app
Traveling with a nervous flyer or a neurodivergent child? I definitely recommend you check out Alaska Airlines’ Fly for All app as it provides a social story that will show you what is going to happen every step of the journey from the airport to the flight.
—photos courtesy of Alaska Airlines
Note: This trip was paid for by Alaska Airlines, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Miles of beaches, delicious Jamaican food, and relaxation await
Jamaica is home to Bob Marley, Usain Bolt, Appleton Rum, warm waters, and fantastic food. With its world-famous Seven Mile Beach, Negril is one of the country’s gems. Azul Beach Resort is stunningly located along Seven Mile Beach. You are at all times literally steps to the beach; with its boutique feel, it’s the perfect oasis for 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.
Everything You Need to Know about Azul Beach Resort in Jamaica
Azul Beach Resort
With nine restaurants, nine bars, seven pools, a spa, and a gym, this smaller property offers a very relaxed guest experience. There are only 283 rooms and most buildings have only two floors, which makes the amenities ratio to guests very favorable. The family suites have a separate living area and you have 12 different room types to choose from.
No need to worry about waking up early to reserve beach umbrellas; there are more than enough for everyone. The entire resort, except for the beach, is smoke-free so you can relax especially when traveling with kids.
Highlights from Azul Beach Resort in Jamaica
Azul Beach Resort
Activities galore: Whether you want the gym, spa, yoga, rum tasting, wine tasting, margarita workshops, dancing, or foam pool party, Azul Beach has it covered. We were really impressed with all the activities the resort offered throughout the day. Our favorite activity was the foam party at the pool.
Kids Club: The Azulitos Kids Club is quite large, with a variety of activities for kids ages 4-12. When the kids are at the Kids Club, adults can spend the day on the adults-only side of the property for a different feel.
Denys Zlobin
Toddler All-Inclusive: Yes, that’s right. Almost everything you need for your baby and toddler is available, so you can pack light and relax, knowing your baby’s needs will be met.
Gourmet All-Inclusive: In addition to everything else that’s included, you’ll find a welcome bottle of sparkling wine or locally inspired beverage in your room when you arrive.
Denys Zlobin
Lots of space on the beach: We loved that you didn’t have to pay extra for the day beds; the Balinese beds and beach huts are free.
There are designated areas for beach towels during the day, and there is no need to have a towel card; just grab and go. If you arrive after 4 p.m., you can request towels from housekeeping.
Customized service: If you are celebrating a special occasion, the team will work with you to bring your vision to life, whether it’s a wedding, anniversary, or kid’s birthday celebration.
The Food! A little bit of spice and a whole lot of flavor.
Jamaican food is known worldwide, and what we loved about this property is they didn’t tone down the flavors. The food is fantastic. For traditional Jamaica cuisine, make sure to book ahead at least one night at Ackee.
We could have lived at Garfield’s Beach House and found ourselves heading there for lunch most days because it’s on the beach.
Denys Zlobin
Beans Gourmet Coffee Shop
In the morning, you can grab your specialty coffee, juices, and treats; in the afternoon, they offer sandwiches and cakes.
The food displays at Mahogany Restaurant & Kitchen were above expectations for a buffet-style restaurant.
Tips for making the most out of your stay at Azul Beach Resort in Jamaica
Azul Beach Resort
There is a resort casual dress code for dinner. For the most part, it’s fairly casual; collared shirts are recommended for gentlemen in the evening. The only thing to be aware of is sleeveless shirts and caps are not permitted during dinner.
If you have dietary restrictions, speak to your concierge ahead of time
Download the app and check out what activities or special events are happening at which restaurants.
Bring bug spray and afterbite for the noseeums.
Denys Zlobin
Things to do nearby
Seven Mile Beach: No need to go too far; you can walk along the beach steps from the hotel or spend quality time with the family on the world-famous Seven Mile Beach. Its white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach games, and watching the sunset. Be sure to pile on the sunscreen.
Rick’s Café: Take the family to Rick’s Café for a memorable experience. Kids will love watching the cliff divers or even participating. This popular tourist spot has local food, live music, and gorgeous sunset views.
Rhodes Hall Plantation: This is a good educational and fun activity for the whole family. This historic fruit plantation is still in operation and offers many activities, including horseback riding, trails, glass bottom boat rides, and snorkeling.
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 Azul Beach Resorts, but all the opinions belong to the writer.
It’s quite possibly the most kid-friendly hotel chain we know of
The Loews Regency New York may be a luxury hotel with a posh Park Avenue address (it’s nestled between scores of ritzy residences and high-end shops), but step inside and it’s as down-to-earth as you can get.
Consider this: When we arrived at the hotel on a recent afternoon, the four of us bleary-eyed after a cross-country flight, the bellman handed my kids “Loews Loves Families” balloons and initiated an impromptu game of balloon-style hackey sack. Right there in the lobby.
And that’s the kind of place this is: Upscale, but friendly. Fancy—but not so much that you feel unwelcome when you walk in with a mom bun and a gaggle of kids all shouting, “Pass it! Pass it!” while they abandon their bags on the marble floors so they can play balloon-ball with the bellman.
So if you were ever intimated at the idea of taking your kids to New York City, here’s where that worry stops. From its family-friendly location (playgrounds galore!!) to the special perks for kids and pets (snacks and treats for both!), here’s everything you need to know about the Loews Regency New York—and how the “Loews Loves Families” program makes it the perfect home base when visiting the Big Apple.
Rooms That Let You Have Your Space (with great views)
All of the Regency’s 379 guestrooms are spacious… at least, for New York City standards, (this is Manhattan, after all). Standard King rooms start at 250 square feet, with suites and apartments going up to 5,520 square feet. All guest rooms have elegant furnishings, city views, and uber-comfy beds with crisp white linens, and overstuffed pillows. There are smart TVs, personalized temperature controls, electronic window shades, plenty of built-in power outlets, bath and body products from the posh Julien Farel spa downstairs, and 24-hour room service.
Of course, nothing impressed my kids as much as the flat-screen TVs built into the bathroom mirrors (these come standard in all rooms). Suffice it to say, my kids spent a lot of time in the bathroom.
The Suite Life: If you want to splurge (no understatement, since larger suites can cost upwards of $1,500 a night during peak season), Loews’ one and two-bedroom suites will have you feeling like New York royalty, with spacious apartment-style accommodations boasting full living rooms, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and upscale furnishings.
There are also six themed “Signature Suites” that feel more like opulent Upper East Side apartments than standard hotel rooms. These include the “Uptown Bohemian Suite,” the “Nate Berkus Apartment,” the “Bespoke Suite,” the “Classic 1970s Apartment,” the “Glamour Suite,” and the “Pop Art Suite.” Insiders say these suites—which feature furniture, art, and decor to reflect the various themes—are often booked by locals who need a luxe home-away-from-home while their Manhattan townhouses are renovated.
Fun Fact: The Loews Regency New York is the first Loews hotel in the country, opening in 1963.
“Loews Loves Families” Perks for Kids
Traveling with kids takes planning, and the Loews Loves Families program—which is available in all 26 Loews hotels and resorts across North America—wants to make that part a bit easier by supplying things that you know you’ll need but don’t want to pack. The hotel also prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere, and this is reflected all over the hotel, including the dining rooms, where kids are always welcome.
Families at the Loews Regency (or any Loews, for that matter) can expect:
Baby & kid supplies: This includes complimentary cribs and baby bath amenity kits as well as night lights, bed rails, playpens, baby bathtubs, humidifiers, stuffed animals, kettles, and noise machines.
Complimentary baby proofing: If you’d like the hotel staff to cover the outlets before your arrival, just let the hotel know before you check in.
Welcome amenities: Upon check-in, kids will get a welcome amenity (balloons and snacks for us, but smaller kids may get stuffed animals, coloring books, and locally-themed goodies). You can also request cookies and juice be delivered to your room upon your arrival.
*Above items are subject to property availability.
Food kids will eat—in an environment grown-ups appreciate: If you want to dine in, there are kid-friendly menus at the restaurant (and in-room dining) that include fresh organic baby food for your smallest foodie, as well as kid faves like burgers, pancakes, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Good to Know: Breakfast at the Regency Bar and Grill is a veritable Who’s Who of Manhattan’s social and business scene (it’s the home of the original “Power Breakfast,” which Forbes magazine described as a place “at which the city’s movers and shakers get in an early morning meeting before limo-ing off to Wall Street, City Hall or some media conglomerate.”). So if you want to dine at the hotel, we recommend breakfast.
Free coffee and tea in the lobby: This one’s all for Mom and Dad. But, you know you’ll need it.
Insider’s Tip: Use the concierge! When we needed to find a kid-friendly restaurant that would be good for the grandparents, the concierge found the perfect place and made the reservations for us. He also helped us even before we got there by recommending the best way to get to the hotel from Newark Airport. Be sure to reach out before you embark on your trip by emailingregencyconcierge@loewshotels.com.
And… Bring your Dog!
Want to bring your dog with you (we did)? No problem! The “Loews Loves Pets” program will treat your furbaby like the VIP she is, with silver bowls, treats, doggie bags, and pet placemats in your room when you arrive. You’ll also get a doorknob hanger that notifies the cleaning crew not to come in (or to come in carefully, if that’s what you prefer) when your dog is left behind.
The hotel can also provide everything your pet needs, including plush pet beds, litter boxes, scratching posts, pet toys, leashes, collars, and more. Want to take your dog with you on your adventures? Ask the front desk for a dog-walking map plus a list of pet-friendly restaurants nearby. Or, if you need someplace for your pooch to play while you’re away, the hotel has connections to nearby pet-walking and pet-sitting services.
Note: The pet fee is $50 and the hotel can only accommodate two pets per room.
Location, Location, Location!
If you’re not from here, you might think Manhattan would be a scary place for littles—The noise! The crowds! The bumper-to-bumper traffic that makes catching a cab a bonafide skill! But in this largely residential neighborhood filled with designer stores and swanky brownstones, you’ll find nothing of the sort. Instead, there are wide open sidewalks, tree-lined streets, and nobody anywhere trying to sell you a double-decker bus tour (save that for Times Square).
The best part? Central Park is just two blocks away, and it’s the perfect place to let your kids stretch their newfound city legs. So put on your walking shoes and check out these nearby spots:
Central Park’s Billy Johnson Playground (5-minute walk): Stroll into the park to find this magical playground inspired by the natural landscape of Central Park, featuring a miniature rock bridge, numerous water sprinklers, and a 45-foot granite slide built into the existing hillside.
Central Park Zoo (5-minute walk): A 7-acre zoo nestled into the southeast corner of Central Park (just two blocks from the hotel!), featuring animals from tropical, temperate, and polar zones from around the world. Don’t miss the Tisch Children’s Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with the goats, sheep, cow, and pot-bellied pigs. For visiting information, click here.
Heckscher Playground (10-minute walk): This is Central Park’s oldest and largest playground, and it’s a must-see! The sprawling playground features multiple swings, slides, and an extensive water feature with elevated walkways connected to the ground via ladders and slides. Even cooler, all of it is set against Umpire Rock, one of Central Park’s most dramatic rock outcrops that kids will love scurrying up and around.
Subway to… the rest: Of course, Manhattan is a small island, so anything you want to see is always just a few subway stops away (there’s a subway stop three blocks from the hotel, or you can ask the bellman to call you a taxi). Iconic spots such as the Empire State Building, FAO Schwartz toy store, Rockefeller Center, and the Theater District are all less than 2 miles away, or you can take the E Train from the Upper East Side to Lower Manhattan to check out One World Trade Center Observatory, which offers a spectacular view from the 100th through 102nd floor—and a 47-second, LED projection-assisted “Sky Pod” ride to get there that will be the highlight of your trip.
Loews Regency New York
540 Park Ave., New York, NY
(212) 759-4100 Rates: Standard rooms start at $399 in the winter (Jan-March) and go up to $739 per night in the fall. Kids under 18 stay free.
Online: Loewshotels.com/regency-hotel
—all images courtesy of the author
Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Loews Regency New York but all opinions belong to the writer.
Our favorite airplane hack while traveling with kids? Saran wrap
You’re excited about your destination. The journey to get there—maybe not so much. But before you start writing preemptive apology letters to your fellow airplane passengers, try some of these genius airplane hacks to keep your brood calm, happy, and organized on even the longest of flights. From where to sit on the plane to how to pack so you can whip out the right stuff at the right time (Hello, emergency lollipops!), here are the best travel and packing tips for your next flight.
According to air travel experts, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least popular days to fly—which means not only will you get a better deal on your flight, but you may end up with a free seat next to you in the air. In contrast, Sundays are the most expensive, according to TravelFreak.com.
True, some airports will whisk families through security to help weary moms and dads get through the lines without having to tame tantrums or retrieve runaway kiddos—but it's not a guarantee. To help make sure your wait in the security line is a quick one, apply for TSA PreCheck status, which lets you and your kids breeze through security a little faster (PreChecked travelers use a separate line and don't need to remove their shoes or belts nor remove liquids, laptops or light jackets). Children under 13 can use the TSA PreCheck lane when traveling with a parent or guardian who has the indicator on their boarding pass. Even better? It only costs $85 for five years.
Insider Tip: Make sure to apply for PreCheck status at least two weeks before your flight, then add your "Known Traveler Number" to your reservation.
Every parent knows it takes something as simple as, "Sorry, we ran out of the Pirate's Booty" to send a cranky kid into a hangry downward spiral. To avoid this in-air calamity, pre-order any onboard snacks (besides the ones you pack) ahead of time. Most airlines will let you do this within two weeks of your flight, allowing you to prepay for meals or snacks so that you're guaranteed your food of choice even if you're sitting in the last row to be served (most airlines even have kids meals, which reportedly taste way better than their grown-up counterparts).
If you've got a kid who gets queasy easily, sitting at the front of the plane or between the wings is your best bet since this is the most stable part of the airplane. The back seats, by contrast, will be the bumpiest when the air gets choppy. That said, if you've got a kid who's new to the potty, choose a seat in the back, so you're close to the lavatory. Sitting in the rear of the aircraft also means you're within easy reach of in-flight amenities (you can usually get cups of water or seconds on snacks), and you'll have a bit of room to stretch your legs if you need to rock a nearly-snoozing child.
Use this hands-free phone hack to make watching movies easy.
Want to make it easy for your kids to zone out with a show or movie during the flight? TikTok user Shoshoni Van de Venn posted this genius hack that uses an airsickness bag to make a hands-free phone holder.
Use a pillowcase to bring extra items on board.
Melissa Heckscher
Most airlines won't let you bring two carry-on bags on board—but pillows don't count! TikTokker Anya Lakovlieva posted this awesome travel hack that lets you use a pillowcase as an extra bag. So fill up that "pillow" with any stuffies, jackets, or extra clothing you want to bring on board, and you'll have a comfy headrest and an added carry-on!
When your wiggly tot needs to get to the bathroom, pronto, digging through your carry-on to find diapers and wipes need to be a lightning-fast feat. To prep for this inevitable moment, use a clear packing cube to make an easy-to-grab potty kit that you can whisk out of your carry-on the moment you see your wee one wiggling. Packing cubes are also great for separating snacks, spare clothes, toys, and other items you'll need to grab at a moment's notice. Try these EZPacking Cubes for clear plastic pouches or these compression mesh cubes that let you squish your stuff down to fit it all in.
Insider Tip: Bring extra Ziploc bags in case you need a place to put soiled or wet clothes.
This blow-up footrest lets your little ones lay flat (if they're small enough) or put their feet up to get cozy. It also works to keep toys and crayons from falling to the floor since it takes up almost all of the space in front of the seat. Blowing it up can be a little tedious—you use your mouth or a pump (sold separately)—but once it's inflated, your tot will be the envy of your seatmates. Buy it here.
Use a phone wallet for easy access to travel documents and credit cards.
When you're shuffling kids through security, keeping all of your travel documents easily accessible is a must. So carry your phone and your credit cards in one of these wearable "phone wallets" so you can whip out your tickets and pay for snacks without needing to open your purse. Not only that, but you'll be able to quickly snap a photo or hand over Youtube Kids at a moment's notice. Win-win!
Use busy boxes to keep kids entertained without screens.
Melissa Heckscher
Sure, you can hand over your phone and let kids veg out the whole flight, but if your kids are too young for marathon TV sessions or you want to occupy them for a few minutes without a screen—airplane busy boxes are a fun way to pass the time. Make them yourself by filling a pencil case with a variety of small toys and games suitable for your child, or head to Etsy and buy one, made-to-order. Stellar seller 2Plus3EqualsWe makes magical ones that can be personalized with your child's name.
Insider Tip: Don't show them to your kids until you're up in the air!
"Surprise Eggs" are your friends.
ZURU
If the wild success of YouTube channels like Ryan's World is any indication, simply opening a toy is almost more fun than playing with it. So bring along wrapped or boxed toys that your child can "unbox" while in flight. It can be as simple as filling plastic Easter eggs with tiny toys from the Dollar Store or buying pre-made kits online, like this 30 toy-filled eggs set on Amazon. Our choice: "Surprise Balls" like Mini Brands Toys (which come with tiny replicas of popular toys and are gender-neutral) take at least 15-20 minutes to unwrap, open, and explore, and they're relatively small to toss in your carry-on. Keep them a secret, then hand them over when your kids get fidgety.
Insider Tip: Bring Play-Doh for kids to stick to the tray table—it works great for anchoring small toys in place!
Listen to Stories.
Yoto
There are only so many books you can bring to read to your child on a plane. So leave the storytelling to this genius little gadget that makes it easy for kids to listen to stories or songs without needing to know how to read the controls. All they have to do is slide the sturdy story card into the slot and push a button. Content cards range from Disney faves like Frozen and Spider-Man to kid-lit classics like The MagicTreehouse and Ramona Quimby. There are even cards that let you record your voice so you can read a story, sing a song, or just talk to your child and they can listen to your voice on demand.
Coloring is a no-brainer way to help pass the time on a long flight. To keep crayons from slipping and sliding off of the fold-down tray, bring triangle-shaped ones that will lay flat.
Your kid won't travel without her favorite lovey, but you know that doll is bound to end up on the dirty airplane floor. What's a parent to do? Strap one of these handy tethers onto your kids' important items to keep them from falling onto the ground (or getting lost). Note: You can attach one end to your child's wrist (or yours) if you can't find any other place to loop it.
Don’t feel like lugging your toddler’s car seat but need something more than the airplane seatbelt to keep your little wiggler in place? Try this airplane hack that uses a safety harness that straps onto the airplane seat to create the same sort of five-point harness your child is used to, without the bulk. Because it holds the child's chest area as well as the waist—the same way a car seat seatbelt does—the FlySafe harness can help restless kids fall asleep more easily on a plane. It is designed for kids that weigh 22-44 pounds and is small enough to fit in your purse.
Use a folding travel desk to keep things within reach.
If your child likes to draw or craft her way through a long flight, a fold-out desk like this one is the perfect way to keep all those art supplies within reach and off the airplane floor. There are pockets for all the things your child needs, and it folds up easily for easy carrying to and from your destination. It also works to cover that infamously dirty tray table.
When you're rushing to make a flight and you don't want to worry about your child toddling into restricted areas or making a beeline for the airport store, this strap-on child seat fits on the back of your rolling luggage and lets your kid cruise right along with your carry-on. It works with children up to 50 pounds and attaches to any 20-24" rolling suitcase. Want something a little more sophisticated? Micro's Luggage Eazy has a built-in kid seat on the top of its roller case so you can zip through the terminal in style.
Get a seat with a bassinet.
Laura Green
Did you know most international flights offer bassinets that attach to the wall of the front row in coach? It's true... and it's amazing! To secure one of the few seats on the plane that offer this perk, book your seats way ahead of time by calling the airline directly and requesting the bassinet seats. The bassinets make a great napping and tummy time space and are available for babies up to about a year (though age and weight limits vary per airline). Check out this post from FlyingwithaBaby, which compares bassinet seats (and rules for them) for almost all major airlines.
The last thing you want when you've just reached cruising altitude is to hear the sad wail from your little one that can only mean one thing: something hurts. To help any in-flight ouchies (such as ear pain, which is common during the winter when kids have constant stuffiness), bring a bottle of infant or child Tylenol or Advil (plus the measuring cup that comes with it), just in case.
You don't want to know what might be lurking on the tray table where your one-year-old just plopped his pacifier. One of our favorite airline hacks is to keep those yuckies covered with a disposable like this "Tray Mask." That way, when your kids pour their pretzels out of the bags (because you know they will), you can rest assured knowing the table is clean.
If you don't want your extra pacifiers collecting dirt and grime, grab a few extra to-go dressing cups the next time you eat out. Each one is a perfect binky-holder.
Get this suitcase that doubles as a lay-flat bed.
JetKids
JetKids has invented what may be the coolest travel gadget for kids: The JetKids By Stokke Bedbox works as a scooter suitcase in the airport (your kids can roll themselves or be pulled by you) and transforms into a lay-flat bed for babies and toddlers in-flight. At $199, it's a pricey purchase, but considering the peace of mind you'll get knowing your little one will snooze the flight away, it may be worth it.
If the power on the tablet runs out, and you're up for a family game, whip out a few air travel BINGO cards and start scanning the aisles for your winning items. See a beverage cart? Check!! Hear someone sneeze? BINGO! You can make your own cards or try one of these free printables.
The frequent flyers over at Nourishing Little Souls picked up this hack from a flight attendant for when their little ones’ ears pop en route. Simply pour steaming hot water onto paper towels and stuff them into the bottom of two cups. Then, hold the cups so that they’re sealed over your kid’s ears; any pressure disappears in a flash.
Make in-flight snack time a game.
Melissa Heckscher
Tots love to open and close things, so take a cue from Lemon Stripes by stretching out the mid-flight snack by stashing their favorite nibbles—goldfish, granola, raisins—into a days-of-the-week pill case. They'll get a kick out of popping open each compartment and picking out the treats inside.
Use saran wrap or portable cup covers to minimize in-flight spills.
Keep in-flight juice messes to a minimum by covering open cups (like the ones flight attendants hand out) with a piece of Press n' Seal. Stick a straw into the top and voila! Looking for something you can use again and again? Try these ingenious portable cup covers that fit onto almost any cup.
Abandon screen time rules.
Keiko Zoll
If endless episodes of Dora The Explorer or a few hours of Minecraft is all it takes to keep your little jet-setter happy on a cross-country journey, let it happen. When it comes to screen time on an airplane, we say there are no rules. Quiet kids = Happy plane.
Insider Tip: If you're downloading movies to the tablet, don’t forget a jack splitter so your kids can watch together. Also, don't forget to download your airline's app so you can watch free movies and shows in-flight (most airplanes without courtesy screens offer this).
Hear us out: If your kids are having trouble popping their ears during takeoff and landing, sucking on lollipops can help. It also helps during temper tantrums and meltdowns (You're on a plane: You do what you have to do). Don't be afraid to offer them to the harried parents a few rows up—this airplane hack works like magic.
