Luxury Family Vacations

A family recently contacted us wanting ideas for a special trip in Britain.  So it got us thinking and we thought we’d share five with you... Are you in?

1. Experience the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Scotland is growing in popularity. This year is the 62nd Military Tattoo commemorating HM, The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.  The Military Tattoo is a great event. Who doesn't get excited by pageantry and bagpipes?  In addition to exploring  Edinburgh during the Tattoo, we can add a visit to Glamis Castle, the childhood home of HM, The Queen Mother, St Andrews and maybe Scotland's oldest distillery.
 
2. Harry Potter Tour of England. Explore London through Harry Potter's eyes before you travel on to Gloucester and Oxford where prime city locations were transformed in the films into Hogwarts School.  Your itinerary includes a tour of The Warner Bros. Studio London - The Making of Harry Potter, which showcases a huge array of sets, costumes and props.

3. Savor the Royal Scotsman Rail Journey and Scottish Island Experience. Explore Edinburgh before joining the The Royal Scotsman Orient-Express train for a unique and luxurious rail journey of a lifetime.  Follow it up with a fantastic island hopping adventure taking in the remote and windswept Outer Hebrides, the romantic isle of Skye, Mull and the historic islands of Iona and Staffa. Now honestly, have any of you done this one yet?
 
4. Smell the blooms at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. While the Floriade in Holland is the horticultural event of the decade, not everyone will clamor to get there, and the Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most famous flower shows in the world.  Spend a week and  include visits to gardens like Highgrove, the private gardens of the Prince of Wales, Blenheim Palace, Hampton Court Palace, the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew, RHS Wisley and Sissinghurst.  Oh, of course, having proper afternoon tea is a must!

5. An Exclusive Castle Celebration in the Scottish Mountains. Enjoy the exclusive use of a highland castle with friends.  No, it's not haunted as far we know... Spectacularly situated on the shores of Loch Ness, the castle sleeps up to 30 people.  Your experiences include a private cruise along Loch Ness, a trip on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, the opportunity to ascend a mountain in a private gondola, and a gala dinner in traditional Scottish dress as a finale.

Yes, there's more happening in England this year than the Olympics!

Summer is here, and families that haven't planned ahead want to know where to go.  And of course, key on the mind of many is where they can get great value for price paid. One of our best family vacation destinations is... Club Med Ixtapa. Yes, some travelers have concerns about the destination, but Mexico is a big country and, after all, there are places in the US that one wouldn't take their family to.

I still have fond memories of our family vacation at Club Med in Ixtapa - -and that was before their fabulous recent renovation.  It was simply a great getaway for our kids and for us, because everybody had a good time, the flight wasn't too long, there was plenty to do, our kids met other kids they got along with and the food was great and everybody got to eat whatever they wanted. Activity wise we enjoyed swimming and sailing, archery, tennis, soccer, volleyball, bocce ball and trampoline.  Perhaps you've enjoyed a family vacation here, too? If so, let us know your take on this resort, and if you felt safe there.

So I was surprised to read about the incredible family vacation deal available at this all-inclusive resort: from $199 per room in a Family Club that accommodates 2 adults, 3 children and an infant.  A family of 6 can enjoy a 3-day vacationat Club Med Ixtapa for $597, or a 7-day vacation for $1,393.  The deal at $199 per room is only valid through June 30 and again from August  21 through December 17.  The price goes up to $299 for travel from July through August 20, which is still a great deal when you consider all that's included -- making this one of the best all inclusive family vacation destinations. The catch is families have to book by June 28th to get this vacation deal. You can read more about Club Med and as we have a preferred relationship with Club Med, our luxury travel agency can make it happen.

Buenos Aires has two airports, and flying in from Mendoza, we arrived at the bustling Jorge Newbery Domestic Airport located on the shores of the Rio Plata. The scenic drive enroute to the Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt took about 20 minutes, and was our first look at this attractive city of some 12 million residents. Impressions included wide green spaces, lots of memorials, and lots of dogs, both being walked on leashes, or roaming about on their own.  

Buenos Aires is an amazing city, with a number of distinct neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and characteristics. The top luxury hotels are mostly in the Recoletta district, which is full of Parisian-style buildings from the belle-epoque period, and populated by numerous luxury shops. The city's top visitor's attraction, the cemetary where Eva Peron's is now buried, is also here (though her tomb is hardly the main reason to visit). 

The Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt is an amazing destination onto itself. This oasis within a magnificent city truly offers the best in service, ambience, and comforts. The hotel is in two buildings that face each other, both overlooking an outdoor patio and green space between them. The older building was the original private residence of the Duhau family, where rooms are more classic, and the public areas ornate and regal. In the newer wing, rooms are contemporary in style, and the sparse lobby more utilitarian. Both buildings are connected underground via an art gallery. The Ahin spa offers a variety of treatments and modern fitness center, and the indoor lap pool, lined with marble, just begs one to take advantage and swim some laps. In the palacio wing there's the smoking bar, a lovely wood-paneled old-style lounge, dining venues, and a wine and cheese bar. We had lunch at Duhau Restaurante, and without a doubt had the most luxcious beef the entire trip that you could cut with a work and nearly melted in your mouth.

A few of BA's top hotels are in the area, so it's definitely the fashinable place to stay. There's a shopping mall just up the block and the Recoleta Cemetary, BA's top attraction, and Saturday craft fair are few short blocks away.

Nearby is the Palermo district, with beautiful residential community and some top museums, and further afield the fast growing and modern Puerto Madero district, anchored by the attractive Bridge of Woman.  In the historic Plaza de Mayo area is the Presidential Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral, and the area seems popular for local [peaceful] demontrations, which often take place in the middle of the streets and block traffic. (On our visit there were two such demonstrations on two adjacent streets off the plaza.) Another old historic district is San Telmo, full of antique shops and outdoor cafes around Plaza Dorrego.  One can't comment about Buenos Aires without mentioning La Boca district, the city's Little Italy.  

Based on the huge volume of vacation bookings we’re seeing, 2011 is shaping up to be a great year for travel. One of the most common questions our expert vacation planners are being asked is what we are recommending this year as great vacation destinations. So we went directly to our experts for their recommendations and we’re sharing them with you.

1. Australia – This destination is both exotic and cosmopolitan, offering something for everyone including adventure, lots of attractions, good food, friendly people and fun! From the vineyards of Western Australia, to the vast Outback or the iconic Great Barrier Reef, there is no destination quite like Australia. Following in the footsteps of Oprah’s visit here last year, we have some amazing once-in-a-lifetime deals available right now.

2. Africa – Spurred in part by the recent World Cup, Southern or Eastern Africa is always one of the world’s top destinations to visit, and we’re seeing renewed demand. There’s nowhere else on the planet that offers the type of wildlife on view here, and an African safari is not only exciting, but also enriching and fulfilling. Africa offers unbelievable luxuries and comforts at some fabulous resorts and camps, and it’s quite impossible to convey the wonder and thrill of sitting within yards of big game like lion or elephant, in their own backyard, in an open-air vehicle.

3. China – Always increasing in interest, China remains a top vacation destination. A little tip – the most unique and enriching experiences in this fabulous country are found off the beaten path, not on the lower-priced mass-market tours. You will find it a much better value and be rewarded with a much better experience by allowing an expert to plan a more customized and unique itinerary for your visit. Given the sheer size of the country and the enormous diversity of culture and sights, China lends itself to repeat visits.

4. South America –South America is becoming increasingly popular. As its largest country and site of both the 2016 Olympic Games and the 2014 World Cup, Brazil is rising fast on people’s “must visit” barometer. Argentina remains hugely popular, and a good value for the dollar. Peru is a fascinating destination as well, rich in culture and archeological treasures. Each of these countries is a source for some very unique itineraries, especially for the adventurous traveler.

5. Hawaii – Hawaii in general has always been a very popular destination, but Maui in particular is a top family vacation, wedding and honeymoon destination. There is easy access from the west coast and great proximity to Lanai and Molokai, which both offer unique activities such as rodeos and trail rides in addition to the beautiful sightseeing on Maui itself, including Hana, Haleakala and the Iao Valley. New this year for Hawaii is the introduction of an all-inclusive option for groups at the Sheraton Maui. Though not yet available for individual travelers, the long awaited all-inclusive concept is something that will be very popular for family reunion and destination wedding groups in particular. Also opening this summer on the island of Oahu is Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, which promises to incorporate several new and innovative experiences for its guests. There are so many exciting things to do in Hawaii outside of being at a beach resort. And don’t miss out on a zip line adventure!

Of course, just listing five top vacation destinations doesn’t do the planet justice. There are so many destinations that warrant our time and interest. For many of our customers, Europe is still a top destination, with Italy always ranking on top. In sheer volume, certainly Europe remains a key destination in 2011. However, we’ve sought to profile a few other top picks where we’re seeing growing demand. It is worth mentioning, however, that we are offering a fabulous air-inclusive Europe Vacation in our current sweepstakes, so please feel free to enter!

The possibilities are limitless when it comes to planning personalized travel itineraries, whether it’s for the solo traveler or a large group.  Recently, I was privileged enough to arrange and escort a large luxury group to Italy. It was an amazing trip I will never forget. 

From the sheer thrill of window shopping the fashion houses of Gucci and Armani in Milan; being face to face with the world’s greatest masterpieces in Florence, and walking in the footsteps of ancient nobility in Rome.   The experience of visiting the magical Italian cities with my group of 147 travelers, comprised of adults and kids, was fantastic from start to finish. 

The trip started off with a departure from the Sacramento airport aboard privately chartered first class jets that flew directly to Milan.  Upon arrival, we were whisked away from the main terminal in luxury motor coaches to the five star Hotel Principe di Savoia Milano for four glorious nights.  The hotel is beautiful (also seen in Sofia Coppola’s movie, “Somewhere”).  During our stay, we enjoyed a private viewing of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper and a private tour of the city with ample time for retail therapy.  We also ventured by privatized train cars to Venice with catered hosts serving drinks and snacks along the way and enjoyed the comforts of the 1924 paddle steamer, Concordia, during our day on Lake Como.  Milan, Venice and Lake Como were fabulous!

From Milan we traveled by train, again by privatized cars with hosts, to Florence.  Our luxury motor coaches transferred us to the Westin Excelsior for three nights.  The Westin is in a prime location and right along the Arno River.  Since Florence is so compact, you will see everyone walking and riding bikes.  Private guides were available to take smaller groups on walking tours of the city.  While in Florence we took a day trip to the Tuscan countryside to Siena and San Gimignano.  Wow!  If those walls could talk!  Siena is so unique.  We were able to walk to the Piazza del Campo where the Palio di Siena (a horse race with bareback riders) is held.  San Gimignano was much like Siena but set on a very high hill.  It’s famous for its “skyscrapers” (actually towers).  The drive back to Florence was a great time to relax and enjoy the beautiful sights.  It’s so nice to be chauffeured around and not have to worry about directions!  When we arrived back at the Westin, a parents night out was planned on the fly with childcare, videos, games, toys and activities for the kids.  It was a huge success and the kids loved it, not to mention all the moms and dads that appreciated their time together.  

After our three nights in Florence we traveled by private train cars with hosts to Rome, the Eternal City.  Once again, luxury motor coaches were waiting to take us to the stunning St. Regis for three nights.  We arranged a privately catered dinner in the Ritz Ballroom that evening:  a very opulent, over the top space that has hand painted frescos on the ceiling and gorgeous chandeliers.  It really took our breath away! 

A day trip to Pompeii was outstanding.   Our luxury motor coaches took us in style to the south where we enjoyed a private lunch and then explored the partially buried city.  Afterwards, we visited the cameo factory which was a unique shopping opportunity.  The next day we had a private city tour of Rome with a visit to the Vatican & Sistine Chapel.  We ended our Italy trip with a farewell feast with music and magicians for the children at the Antico Ristorante Pagnanelli in idyllic Castel Gandolfo.  The next day was hard for the entire group to depart the St. Regis for the Rome airport.  It seemed we had only just arrived in Italy!   As we boarded our private jets, we said goodbye to “la durata dolce dell’Italia” (the sweet life of Italy) as we headed westbound for Sacramento!  Learn more about Italy vacations.

Sarah de Fazio
sarah.d@travelstoreusa.com

In recent years the bar’s been raised on the dude ranch experience, with newer resorts that offer more comforts and more choices for couples as well as family vacations. These resorts pamper guests while offering outdoor adventures and all-inclusive vacations. Two ranches of note, both in Montana,  are The Ranch at Rock Creek and Resort at Paws Up.  If you’ve stayed at either, we welcome your insights.

About an hour’s driver from either Butte or Missoula, the more intimate Ranch at Rock Creek offers 29 rooms and a variety of accommodation types — from tents to five bedroom homes.  Taking up some ten square miles, the ranch offers horseback riding, fly fishing and spa services. The main saloon includes a bowling alley with four lanes, Karaoke and a screening room. All-inclusive rates here include meal, beverages,  internet, phone calls and activities.  A new general manager, formerly from a Ritz Carlton, will see to some improved enhancements. A few of our travel experts have stayed here and can offer their personal insights and make your arrangements.

A purveyor of  glamorous camping known as “glamping,” the Resort at Paws Up, is much larger, accommodating up to 150 guests. Originally opened five years ago, the ranch has expanded with luxury tented accommodations that compliment two- and four-bedroom vacation homes.  Guest here have access to more than 100 miles of hiking, biking, horse and ATV trails. Kayaking, fly fishing, rafting, golf, rock rapelling and nature viewing are all available.

Let us know if we can tickle your vacation fancy with one of these, or another, option. Read more about USA tour deals and vacation options.

Those of a certain age remember Marineland, one of the more popular theme parks that predated SeaWorld in San Diego. Marineland closed many years ago, and about a year ago the Terranea Resort was opened on the same site.

The Terranea Resort (on Conde Nast’s hot list) offers an ideal escape from the city. The view/location is stunning, and provided instant relief from the weight of the world. Built on the Palos Verdes Peninsula bluffs overlooking the Pacific and Catalina Island, this luxurious resort offers spacious rooms, a popular spa, nature walking trails, creative and innovative dining, and falconry. There’s also a 9-hole par-3 golf course. (The 18-hole Trump National Golf Club is minutes away.)

The only thing Terranea is not is intimate. It features some 500 rooms and numerous meeting room facilities, thus catering to groups, weddings and the like. There are some 300+ hotel-style rooms, plus bunaglows, casitas and 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom villas.

I was here for a few days attending a conference, and found the staff arttending to our group consistently attentive, and the servers at meals were delightful, warm and hospitable. The culinary choices creative and delightful, including such memorable treats as an avacado parfait and goat cheese brulee. (I did find service in two of the restaurants on two occasions a bit under par, however.)

The resort is ideal for couples and for family vacations, and features three pools: a family pool complete with a sand pit, water slide and fun fountain kids love to play in; an adult pool, and a lap pool at the spa. (Surprisingly there are no tennis courts.)

Terranea is one of our preferred resorts, and we offer complimentary breakfast and resort credit when we make your reservations. Read more about Terreana Resort.

Dan Ilves
dan.i@travelstoreusa.com

Our boat took us to Amalfi, another gem on the edge of the coast. Streets are busier with traffic than Positano, which has more walking streets. The port was crowded with boats, beach is smaller with lounge chairs filled. The imposing 13th Century Cathedral of Sant’ Andrea is worth exploring.

Hotel Santa Caterina is a 15 minute walk or a 5-minute hotel shuttle from town. (5-star luxury property). Convento di Amalfi is a newly refurbished hotel built in a 12th Century monastery, a 10-minute walk to town but taxi back as it’s built into the hillside. Contemporary interiors. I saw both of these hotels from the boat – was unable to visit them for a first hand look inside.

I went by taxi to Ravello, about 20 minutes drive from Amalfi. The streets are incredibly winding with one lane each way along the edges of the cliffs. Gorgeous views around every curve. Much too difficult to attempt to drive it if you are not a local. I visited Hotel Palazzo Sasso in Ravello, an award winning 5-star hotel originally a 12th century villa. The hotel is perched up on top of a hill with stunning views. Rooms and suites are beautiful, traditional Italian with contemporary touches. Fabulous views from the pool and terraces. Handmade tiles, antique carpets, personal service, excellent spa.

Right next door is Hotel Caruso, one of the Orient Express Hotels. I was not able to have a look inside but the views are the same as at Palazzo Sasso.

Ravello is not as busy as the other towns along the coast – perfect for clients who want the beauty of the Amalfi Coast but also want a quieter location. Palazzo Sasso has a 2 star Michelin restaurant, a beach club a few minutes away with a sundeck and access to the sea.

I visited a new hotel in the town of Maiori, further along the coast. The hotel was new and very pretty, but it was on top of the cliff with no elevator or road, so guests have to walk up a long set of steps to reach the hotel. Staff will handle luggage and there are plans to eventually install an elevator from the streets below but until this is done, it’s not a hotel for most Americans. The town is larger than the other more charming coastal villages and is more of a “working town,” which also detracts from choosing this location.

Further down the coast is the little port town of Palinuro. This is not a typical tourist town but is a seaside getaway for Italian families. The town is quite charming, but there are no luxury hotels close by. There is a resort hotel called King David within walking distance of town. This is not the place most travelers want to see if they have in mind a trip to the Amalfi Coast, but for those looking for authenticity in a coastal town in southern Italy, it’s a nice spot.

The return flight was Naples/Rome/LAX. Unfortunately this time I was flying economy. The Alitalia flight from Rome to LAX (13 1/2 hours) was not easy as it was a daytime flight all the way, window seat 3 across, my individual entertainment system did not work so I could not watch movies, and my seat did not recline! I look forward to seeing the new seats once all the aircraft are reconfigured.

I always love returning for Italy vacations no matter how I get there. The food is fabulous, the people are engaging, the history, art, architecture are fascinating, the rhythm of life is warm and rich.

Katie Cadar
katie.c@travelstoreusa.com

We arrived in Vancouver on an August afternoon prior to embarking on a cruise. The city was positively sparkling – perfect weather, sunny and warm. The cafes had doors and windows wide open with patrons enjoying the sunshine and sitting outdoors.
 
We stayed at The Wedgewood, a Relais Chateau hotel in the center of the city, an easy walk to excellent shops and restaurants. The hotel has an old world European charm with warmth and personality. It is family run, with the owner taking care to create the decor and atmosphere herself. The lobby has an inviting sitting area with fireplace and the entry to the restaurant is right there. Bacchus Bar & Restaurant, and Piano Lounge is filled with paintings, Venetian chandeliers, comfortable sofas and chairs, and serves excellent food and wine. The place is hard to leave!

The rooms are good sized, elegantly furnished in traditional style. The deluxe executive guestrooms have a 2-person soaker tub in the bedroom (this is a popular category).  The Penthouse Suites (there are only two) were my favorites – living rooms with fireplace, large spa tubs in the bathroom, antiques and art, a patio with sitting area. The Wedgewood is an intimate boutique hotel where you feel “everyone knows your name.” Concierge, desk clerks, restaurant servers, all were warm and charming. 
 
We walked to the Shangri La Hotel several blocks away. This sleek contemporary luxury property is the first one of the Shangri La group built in North America. (The plans for others are on hold due to the economy.) The lobby has hugely high ceilings, marble and glass. There is a small dining area on the ground floor. Guests arriving by car enter by driving down to the discreet underground entrance.  This works well for high profile clients as they can be checked in once in their room. The hotel occupies the first 15 floors of a 61 floor office and residence building. Guestrooms are contemporary-Asian, some with balconies. Floor to ceiling windows, luxurious fabrics, warm  tones of gold, brown, beige, fabulous bathrooms with granite vanities and recessed sinks, state of the art entertainment centers. The fitness center was impressive – it is shared with the residents who live in apartments on floors above the hotel. The spa is amazing with private treatment suites.
We dined at Market, the Jean George restaurant on the 3rd floor.  The restaurant has four different dining experiences, each with it’s own atmosphere. (casual cafe, modern dining room, outdoor covered terrace, and the bar. We sat out on the terrace as the days were long and the weather so warm. Dining was everything you would expect from a Jean George restaurant – superb. (Don’t miss the ginger Margarita!)
 
We had a look at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, newest of the Fairmont group in Vancouver. It sits right across from the convention center at the port, and is the perfect location for an overnight prior to a cruise departure. Great views of the harbor if the rooms are on higher floors, streamlined, contemporary. The lobby feels cavernous, very high ceilings. (The owner of the hotel also owns the Shangri La, so much of the contemporary Asian touches are similar.) It has a busier atmosphere, escalators go up from the lobby to one of the dining venues and more elevators. One of the dining areas felt a bit like a cafeteria, and there was techno music in the lobby lending a club feel to the place.  The hotel features their Willow Stream Spa and outdoor pool with harbor views.
 
Last time I was in Vancouver I stayed at Four Seasons which is in the center of the city. Elegant and contemporary, all the Four Seasons service you expect.
 
Vancouver is worth a few days before a cruise – the city is vibrant and fun – great shopping ,dining, with lots of activities. Choose your hotel according to taste – there is something for everyone.

You can review some of our preferred hotels & resorts in Vancouver or read more about Canada vacations.

Katie Cadar
katie.c@travelstoreusa.com

Arrival at Hawaii’s Manua Kea Resort includes a relaxing, seated check-in service with refreshments, cool towel and flower lei. You observe the breezy open air lobby and hallways that are serene and sport a shiny terracotta red tile flooring and large array of artwork. (There are over 1,600 pieces gathered by Mr. Rockefeller and Davis Allen in 1965.)  A lobby hostess escorts you to your room and then it happens… THAT BREATHTAKING VIEW!  Now you understand the Rockefeller’s statement: ”Every great beach deserves a great hotel.”

Wonderful quirky patterns, textures and that signature orange color have taken over your room. (You may also get a turquoise room.)  A spacious lanai off both the bathroom and bedroom are where you will want to daydream. Of course there is comfortable seating on both. Cabinets and night stands are a hand-rubbed teak with lots of space for personal items; some of the drawers have spiffy leather pulls. Flat screen TV’s are hidden behind sliding teak doors – a nice touch to remind you to look outside instead of in. When you stand on your lanai and look down on the beach, day or night, there is nothing more moving then that space in front of you. It is what makes people want to write songs or propose to the one they love.   
                                 
Now, let’s head off to the beach. Natural white sand Kauna‘oa Beach, one of Hawaii’s best-ranked beaches. You can’t wait to dive into the crescent shaped sandy-bottomed cove. Volcanic rock spills into the two sides of the cove which is perfect for fish to hide in. Snorkeling is beyond compare with numerous fish, turtles, octopus and the occasional daytime manta ray. 

The Mauna Kea is clearly attractive for family vacations. Multi-generational families are obvious on property. Some will be talking over their awesome golf game, others excitedly show pictures of the big fish caught that day, to be served for dinner at the resort. Surprisingly enough, there is room for families to romp and play and space for the couple that wants to be alone. Enhanced beach and pool services, new padded chaise lounges, beach umbrellas, cabanas, and thick orange beach towels make it fun to be here.
 
Behind the pool is a meeting area that hotel guests really enjoy. Cool off in a rec-room with big screen TV’s to catch up on football scores. Share in Hawaiian culture through lei-making, hula, crafting classes, music, and more. Kids programs are located here as well as my husband’s favorite fresh made cookies served throughout the day. Within walking distance is the new golf clubhouse restaurant, “Number 3”, for a quick bite, even if you are not a golfer. Remember too, there is a complimentary shuttle that goes between Mauna Kea and Hapuna Prince Resort for additional golf, activities and more beach options. (Hapuna’s beach is also renowned.)

Sunsets are an event at Mauna Kea. At the Manta & Pavilion Wine bar you can choose from 48 distinctive wines available in small 1-4 oz. pours. The cooking is done in an exhibition kitchen to show off the chef’s culinary talents. Sitting under the stars here could not be any more spectacular, wow. The restaurant, Monette’s, showcases steaks and fresh seafood all with a fantastic island twist. I had potato encrusted mahi that was light and crispy yet melted in your mouth.     
                
Once the night has arrived the hotel turns on spotlights headed out to sea. And then slowly as the small plankton builds up in the water the graceful manta rays start appearing to feed. It is very magical to see them in their evening nautical ballet. 

The Mauna Kea golf course has solidified its place in Hawaii’s history as one of the most scenic and favored. The course surrounds the resort and wraps around some of the most beautiful areas on the Big Island. 

I didn’t really know what to expect, as this hotel has four decades of history.  You still feel and see much of the retro character, but it has been updated and current in 2010. I loved having an ipod dock to play my favorite tunes. The keyless entry to my room is very Star Trek. Hotel staff has high energy and is full of suggestions to make your stay memorable. You soon realize this resort is a fresh expression of Mauna Kea style that still retains her timeless tradition of Aloha. Thank Goodness.  More on Hawaii vacations.

Katy Kennedy
katy.k@travelstoreusa.com

I used to think Manzanillo was the poor step sister to Puerto Vallarta and Zihuatanejo – that was before I visited.   It is much smaller than the aforementioned resort towns, not having as many resorts and hotels.  And much smaller beaches being made up of a lot of crescent bays.  The two major hotels in Manzanillo are the Barcelo Karmina Palace, a nice 4-star property where we stayed.    The other is the infamous Las Hadas, made famous and putting Manzanillo on the map when the movie “10” was filmed there. (Suite 420 at Las Hadas is the “Bolero” suite, costing approximately $1,100.00 per night. )

Karmina Palace is a lush, well kept, u-shaped resort with every accommodation a large suite.  Most of the suites have some kind of water view and all suites have terraces. There were 2 flat screen televisons; one in the bedroom and one in the sitting area. The housekeeping service was impeccable.  

A Premium Club option gives you WIFI in the room (at a cost), upgraded amenities by Bulgari, a stocked mini bar, private check-in and check-out area, and unlimited dining in the alternative restaurants.  Even though the WIFI has a cost, if you don’t use it in your room you can only get it in the lobby area.  Only Premium Club suites offer the option of in-room WIFI.   

DINING: This is an all-inclusive property, offering the usual buffet (great breakfast choices), a beautiful Mexican palapa restaurant built over a rocky bluff at one end of the property and an Italian restaurant.   Before Christmas they will open their Japanese restaurant. We experienced the Mexican restaurant and the lobster crepes were awesome. They offer a lot of fresh seafood. 

SPA: They have a small spa offering a range of services. I opted for a one-hour deep tissue/sports massage.  My therapist, Lucy, did a wonderful treatment. Since it’s a small area, they have no relaxation area nor comfy waiting area.  They offer wall benches in the locker room and come and get you there. They have a nice steam room. 

BEACH AND POOLS: This resort caters to families, providing Club Barcy for the little ones. There is a wonderful waterslide that has a Mayan temple built around the stairway to the top of the slide. There are two pools that are adults only catering to couples. There are waterfalls and an area under the falls with lounges.  The grounds around the pools are terraced and if you’re at an adult pool you can’t hear the sounds from the family pool as the adult pools are the farthest away and closest to the lobby.

ENTERTAINMENT:  At 11PM, the Mexican restaurant becomes a night club open until 2AM.  Problem with that is from any room you hear the music. They also perform stage shows and while I was there, they had a ballet company that performed songs and dances from Disney movies – in Spanish ;0)  They also had a bizarre short children’s show with strange Disney characters, Donald Duck being the scariest. 

Las Hadas, in my opinion, is still living on it’s laurels from “10”. Having been finished in 1974 after ten years of building, Las Hadas (the faeries) was opened to 300 guests, friends of the owners. Since it’s opening, it has had refurbishments, but not in the way of larger bathrooms or bigger rooms. Some of the rooms we inspected were very small and the bathrooms tiny.  The entire Moorish-style resort is made up of cobblestone streets, paths, lots of bougainvilla, birds of paradise, palms and other beautiful vegetation. They have a central “street” that offers a travel agency, a couple of shops, car rental.  There are many towers and turrets and the place itself seems magical. Their beach is better than Karmina Palace’s, but still is not a big beach. They also offer a marina for visiting yachts, tennis courts and a golf course.   The 18th hole of the golf course is in front of Karmina Palace, right at the ocean. (Guests of Karmina Palace get reduced rates at the Las Hadas course.)  Karmina Palace and Las Hadas are neighbors.  Las Hadas is European plan, but they offer an optional meal plan.  

The only other two resorts in this area is Club Maeva, which caters to Mexican clientele and a Tesoro property that is a high rise building – a rare sight in this area.   I really can’t recommend either of these places to discerning travelers. 

CITY OF MANZANILLO – There is not much here, a few shopping streets and it’s not as picturesque as P.V. or Zihuatanejo. Their city symbol is a huge sail fish, about 125-feet high in the main square.  There is some of the best big game fishing on the Pacific in this area.  Manzanillo is the largest Mexican seaport on the Pacific, receiving cargo daily from Asia and Australia. Its power plant also supplies power not only to the state of Colima, but also two or three of the surrounding states.   With this industry in Manzanillo, they have a thriving economy.  The seaport employs 12,000 workers just by itself.  They are also building a new cruise port right in the town of old Manzanillo to be separate from where the cargo ships dock.

THINGS TO DO HERE: Sea kayaking, snorkeling/diving, big game fishing, ATV off road jungle/beach excursions, ruins and tombs of Tampumacchay.

COLIMA CITY - This is a beautiful colonial city with a verdant and large central square and the Church of the Ave Maria.  We visited the Governor’s Palace and the city hall. Both equally charming. The city of Colima is one hour’s drive from Manzanillo on good roads and definitely worth the trip.  Colima sits near an active volcano with a twin that’s not active. 

ISLA NAVIDAD -  This beautiful location is also about an hour from Manzanillo.  All of Isla Navidad is owned by a wealthy family from Guadalajara.  (Guadalajara is only a 3-hour drive and makes a nice combo with this beach area).  Isla Navidad sits both on the ocean as well as a large lagoon.   The area is fabulously beautiful. Located in this bucolic setting is:

WYNDHAM GRAND BAY RESORT -  Though Wyndham runs the management, it’s still owned by the family from Guadalajara.  This is a 5-star property – no doubt.   It’s immaculate, grand – as it’s name implies – and a destination in itself.  It has a meandering, lush 27-hole championship golf course.   We had a delicious lunch and a tour of the property.  Their Presidential Suite is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen anywhere.  There is no bad view from the rooms, even those with little or no water view looked out at the jungled hillsides or the gardens.  They offer a beach that isn’t on the ocean but on a lagoon.  It’s palm lined with Bali beds, lounges and umbrellas and extremely beautiful.  The property is built up a hillside. I would go back to the Grand Bay to stay in a heartbeat. The nearby small peninsula, Barra Navidad, is approached only by launch from Grand Bay and offers restaurants, shops and bars.  Grand Bay also has a very impressive marina and we saw luxury yachts there from Juneau, the BVI’s and Bahamas.  They also has a lovely spa, offering a large spa menu and they famous Four Hand massage.  This is a place of beauty, peace, tranquility and a true getaway feeling. More on Mexico vacations.

Linda Lewis
linda.le@travelstoreusa.com

Club Med Ixtapa Pacific beckons with a spectacular beach, gorgeous sunsets and loads of fun activities; and it has been beautifully renovated and upgraded, too. The resort looks more like a 5 star hotel.  The rooms and suites are very spacious and nicely appointed with all sorts of amenities ( many with robes, slippers, thick towels, soft linens, very cheerful and modern furniture). There was daily turndown service, with chocolates on your pillow. Quite a change from our previous stays.

All rooms have safes, a mini fridge and plenty of storage space.  I loved the deluxe family “rooms” (actually two rooms separated in the middle by the bathroom area [with separate toilet, shower and tub.]  We had a partial ocean view with balcony that was really enchanting. There is even a suites-only building with a private pool and concierge service.

The grounds were lush, and full of flowers , with birds and iguanas wandering around.  There was an alligator in the pond, but I never saw it.  Some of our family members did. 

The beach was beautiful, with chaise longues and cabanas.  Tall trees provided shade from the hot sun rays.  The water was so warm, like I had not experienced in many years. 

Club Med Ixtapa has several pools, with exclusive ones for the children, and one for adults only.  Here too, the water temperature was super.  I enjoyed doing the aqua gym.

There are so many activities, that one can be busy from morning till night (tennis, power walk, various exercise classes, soccer, ping pong, volleyball, trapeze, water polo, etc. Unfortunately, I never got to try many of them.

As many know, Club Med is an all-inclusive resort. The food was very good and a nice variety.  The restaurants staggerred their hours, so that if you slept past the closure of one, you could get something at one of the alternative ones.  El Encanto, the big main dining room with its buffet meals (was subdivided into several rooms, which gave it a cosier feeling]; Miramar (an Argentine steak restaurant) with only outdoor seating right by the beach, and Luna Azul partially outdoors, with a roof and serving more of a fusion cuisine.  The latter two were not open every night, and one needed to reserve the previous day.  Sirena, a children’s restaurant was not open during our stay. The tropical fruit was amazing, and the Mexican cuisine was outstanding.  Cooks were making tortillas from scratch, so the tacos, enchaladas and quesadillas sure tasted good.

There is a small boutique, selling some clothes, Mexican crafts, and sundries.

Club Med is great for family travel. The children’s clubs are run extremely well.  The GOs in charge are dedicated and well trained.  Our grandchildren loved participating in their activities.  Everyone was welcoming and concerned with the guests well-being.  And Eduardo Jonas was the friendliest chef du village I have ever met,  paying equal attention to the little ones as well as grown ups.
 
For those who like to keep up with world news, there was a daily printed newspaper in French and English, as well as schedules of activities for everyone and those pertaining to the children’s clubs.  Also there was TV5 (the French channel, to my delight), CNN, and other stations.
 
Club Med Ixtapa is about a 30-minute ride from the airport.  Very picturesque, as you drive past the old city of Zihuatanejo,  hills, fields, some hotels in Ixtapa, and travel along a nice highway.  Everything was very clean and in good condition everywhere.

There are many Club Meds around the globe and this was my ninth stay at one. This was by far the most luxurious of any. We were very impressed with the level of accommodations and service. They exceeded our expectations.  All of us are ready to go again.

Suzanne Allswang
suzanne.a@travelstoreusa.com

The Westin Ocean Villas is a new fractional ownership property with 1,021 units, 1 ½ miles north of The Westin Maui Resort on 14 acres. It’s hard to argue with the brochure description: “luxurious Hawaii vacation experience featuring a unique blend of resort and condo living with custom studio and one-bedroom villas of extraordinary comfort and convenience, masterfully designed, richly furnished, and impeccably finished.”

The lobby area is large and very open, nicely decorated with warm colors and invites you to sit, relax and start a very enjoyable vacation. The center grass & courtyard area are spacious and open. There is a water slide at the pool but it does not feel overcrowded, and 12 oceanfront BBQ stations on the property. They have a general store and a deli where you can purchase sandwich supplies, microwaveable meals and such. There is only one restaurant/bar for breakfast/lunch and dinner.

The property does not have a resort fee and internet use is free, daily maid service is provided. The north building has balconies, which the main wing does not. Each one bedroom or studio has a maid entrance door from the hallway and then separate entrances to the rooms from an entryway beyond that. You can book one or the other or you could also book them as connecting rooms. Each studio has a small kitchenette with sink, small counter top range, microwave and studio size refrigerator. In every unit you have a stackable washer and dryer. The one bedroom units have full kitchens with full size ovens and refrigerators and dining area large enough to seat 6. They are all very nicely decorated with earth tones and have carpeting in the bedroom/living area, with tile flooring in the kitchen/bathroom area. All granite counter tops in every unit, also some start-up amenities such as dish/laundry soap, sponge cleaning supplies, etc.

They have a small gym and a game room with pool table and video games. There is a lounge area with showers for either early check in or late check out use available. The beach area is large and has plenty of room for lounge chairs without being crowded. Child care and activities are offered on property and can be booked for both full days and half days as needed. Families with small children will want to request accommodations in the North Building, where they will have a children’s pool and amphitheater with popcorn & other snacks.

You can make out a grocery list prior to check in and the bellman will go shopping and have the kitchen stocked upon arrival. The cost for that service is $10.00 plus the cost of supplies.

Katie Cadar
katie.c@travelstoreusa.com

The Resort at Paws Up is an ideal family vacation for those seeking luxury, adventure and lasting memories during the summer months! Reinvigorate family bonds, build camaraderie and create memories to last a lifetime.

Kids can spend their day in the “Kids Corp of Discovery” program learning to navigate 37,000 acres like the true explorers of 1803, Lewis & Clark. Dad can test his skill at the 12-station sporting clay course, while mom enjoys a relaxing spa treatment in the privacy of her own treatment tent at Spa Town. Together, families will experience the thrill of a river float trip or a trail ride on horseback, and at day’s end, everyone from grandpa to the twins can gather for stories of their days’ adventures in their own expansive Big Timber Home, or around a bonfire at Tent City.

The Paws Up “Kids Corps of Discovery” is held Monday through Saturday. Full and half-day programs are available for children ages 5 to 12. Programs will include organized, themed activities with age-appropriate crafts.

No matter the time of year, adventure is abundant in Montana’s Rocky Mountains. Whether it’s in the saddle of a horse, on a mountain bike, swinging a golf club, or driving an ATV, The Resort at Paws Up will take you places few have ever been. When you combine America’s most beautiful lakes and rivers in the majestic Rocky Mountains with a one-of-a-kind luxury resort, you truly have the ultimate outdoor playground.

Gail Woloz
gail.w@travelstoreusa.com

An ancient civilization has risen from the sea….. Invigorate your imagination.  Be inspired.  Ignite your soul… this is the most lavish resort in the Caribbean. Located on Paradise Island, Bahamas near Nassau.  Atlantis offers experiences to suit all ages – pools, beaches, waterslides, dining, marine habitats, a casino,  world-class shops and a spa! 

From world-class luxury accommodations to moderately-priced comfort, Atlantis Resort gives you a range of choice that will accommodate families from 2-8 people.  The Atlantis grounds have 34-acres filled with waterfalls, streams, lagoons and underwater viewing areas.  11 exhibit lagoons and 11 million gallons of water with sea turtles; stingrays and sharks. The resort claims it has the “largest marine habitat in the world”.

Kids will be especially interested in the Atlantis waterslides. The steepest rides take off from a five-story Mayan Temple: a 60-ft. vertical drop ends in a clear tunnel inside a shark-filled lagoon. There’s also a pair of Challenger slides where you can race your friends. For the little ones, there are smaller slides.

Atlantis features include a giant casino, 35 restaurants, Mandara Spa, and The Dig – a maze of tunnels and chambers with ruins and underwater views of ancient Atlantis and sea creatures.

What’s special about the Atlantis Resort for families?
• Atlantis’ “waterscape” is famed and one-of-a-kind
• water fun includes the pools and waterslides noted above; a rope suspension bridge; water tricycles; the quarter-mile Lazy River Ride; the Goombay Baths and Slides saltwater pools; an Adventure Water Walk with geysers and fountains.
• two kids’ pools have mini water-slides and fountains
• the beach has snorkeling, paddle- boating, kayaking, banana boats, more.
• at the Atlantis’ Discovery Channel Camp (for ages 4 to 12) kids might: explore Base Camp — a replica of a sunken Spanish Galleon– or a technology lab; arts and crafts; expeditions around the “waterscape”.
• Club Rush has a dance floor, movies, videogames and is open early evening for kids 7 to 13, and later for kids 13 and up.

Whether guests choose golf and tennis, a once in a lifetime swim with dolphins or a tour through historic Nassau, there is never a loss for excitement, adventure and exploration. 

Gail Woloz
gail.w@travelstoreusa.com