Greetings Savvy Travelers!
Spring is just around the corner and I am sure many of you are looking forward to escaping somewhere fun (and maybe warm!) for spring break. There are some really great luxury resorts that are perfect for family vacations. When planning a vacation with your kids it is important to ensure your destination includes family friendly food (for those picky eaters), lots of age appropriate entertainment (think water parks and children’s programs), and of course it helps if there are spas and fine dining options for the adults. Let me help you plan the perfect spring break vacation for your family!
"From the bottom of my heart I thank you for your help- not just with the travel arrangements, but for your support and encouragement. I will always call you with my travel needs. All the best!
- S.M.
GOOD TRAVEL CENT$ FOR SAVVY TRAVELERS
The airlines are changing the way they do business. It has come to the point where all airlines are charging for luggage and most are starting to charge for seat assignments. It is best to pre-book your luggage and pay online prior to your arrival at the airport to avoid increased luggage costs.
Do you travel frequently on the same airline? If you have their airline credit card they may offer complimentary check-in luggage. Check with your favorite airline to see what the costs are for check-in luggage and seat assignments and if they offer a credit card with added benefits.
"We had a great time in Grenada at Sandals Resort! It was a wonderful choice for us. The food was excellent and the property did not seem to be overly crowded over Christmas. We were able to get a nice spot on the beach each day, if not at the pool. We would definitely recommend it. Thanks so much for your recommendation. We have passed your name to some friends looking for travel advice and hope they reach out to you soon. " - K.W.
THIS MONTH’S TRAVEL TIP
Since we are talking about family vacations, I thought I would share a few tips on making your family vacation enjoyable for everyone.
When traveling with small children it is always good to slow down. The less pressure you feel see everything, the more enjoyable and stress-free for everyone. Remember to include time for bathroom breaks, snack breaks, and nap time. Be flexible, children’s moods and interests can change quickly. If you and your children find something you’d rather do, be spontaneous and go with the flow.
Allow your children to bring along a few home comforts from home. This could be a stuffed toy, a handful of Hot Wheels or books. Home-made activity packs (filled with coloring pencils and paper, card games & small board games) can help keep your children entertained on the plane, train or even on a rainy day.
Most importantly, build in some private adult time. Many resorts include supervised kiddie clubs that will allow your children to burn off energy and enjoy the company of kids their own age. This can give you parents some time to enjoy the spa, do some snorkeling or simply relax with a cocktail by the pool.
"Maui was just incredible. Four Seasons Wailea was 5 stars in every way. Really enjoyed our stay and the service! Thanks so much for hooking us up. We definitely will be using you in the future." - D.H.
GRAND VELAS RESORT IN MEXICO
This AAA 5 Diamond resort is great for families and also has an adult only section. It’s the cream of the crop for all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. The spacious rooms are very clean and the grounds are beautifully landscaped. There are three sections to choose from at this resort:
Ambassador – adult and family section
Grand – Adult only section
Zen – Both families and adults
Family activities include: swimming with the dolphins, scuba diving, kite surfing, kayaking and more! There’s a Kids Club and Teen’s Club so everyone is sure to have an unforgettable experience.
The Grand Velas is the only resort in the area to offer a culinary tour, their restaurants span the globe in eight venues including our internationally-acclaimed Cocina de Autor signature restaurant. I can tell you first-hand that the cuisine is FANTASTIC! Some of my personal favorite restaurants were Piaf and Frida, both AAA 4 diamond awarded restaurants. The servers were very knowledgeable about the food pairings and wine.
The ideal time of year to visit for optimum weather is December – May. Travel mid-April thru mid-December for the best package deals. This is a very popular resort, so plan ahead and book your stay early.
Click here to take a virtual tour of the Grand Velas Riviera Maya.
AN AFRICAN SAFARI IS THE PERFECT FAMILY VACATION
Build lasting memories as a family as you set off on an East African Safari Vacation! There are few greater wonders on earth than visiting one of its wild places, and even better, seeing wildlife in its natural setting. Here are just a few reasons to book your family vacation in Africa:
The Spectacle
Everything from the Great Migration of more than 1.5 million animals moving throughout the Serengeti ecosystem to trekking gorillas, the wildlife in this region of the African continent is breathtaking!
Everyone has Fun
A safari has something for everyone! There are a huge range of activities to enjoy – game drives, walks and incredible star gazing, as well as cultural activities and interactions. There’s even time to relax if you want! On a safari vacation, everyone has a good time – together!
Family Friendly Accommodations
I can book an extra-large family room so that you’re close with your younger kids or grandchildren, be sure there is a pool for your teens that need to blow off steam, book a tent close to the main lodge so grandpa doesn’t have to walk too far – just let me know your needs, and I will customize your safari to make it a trip your family will never forget!
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SOME GREAT PROMOTIONS ON AFRICAN SAFARIS
Contact me to discuss!
"Our trip to Italy was phenomenal and you did an amazing job!" - D.N..
MESSAGE FROM MARGI
“Life is either a great adventure or nothing."
~Helen Keller
This month, I am happy to introduce my newly redesigned website - CreativeTravelAdventures.com. The site is stuffed full of the same great information but in a fresher, more modern look that is mobile and tablet friendly. Take a look and let me know what you think!
Happy Travels!
Margi Arnold, CTC, Luxury Travel Advisor, President
