Family vacations are truly something special, in part because they don’t happen all the time. Between limited vacation days, school schedules and of course, money, it can be tough to make a real getaway happen.
If you’ve ever looked into planning a family vacation, you probably know that all-inclusive resorts ease the burden of trying to budget for every little thing and figuring out activities that everyone wants to do. But enough of the hotel deals you see touted over and over again on television and in magazines. We asked travel agents which properties are perfect for relaxing with the family for one set price ― from once-in-a-lifetime trips to relatively affordable deals.
Take a look.
Families with little ones will love the Paradisus resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, according to one travel agent. "The Paradisus chain holds some of the best reviews for families and couples," said Gina Libretti, president of G World Travel. The all-inclusive property has a dedicated "Kids Zone" and activities for children. Drop the kids off and explore the adult amenities, or stick together as a family.Pricing for a one-bedroom suite, with a king bed and sofa bed, starts at $316 per night.
The Brando is a luxury all-inclusive resort set on the remote atoll of Tetiaroa in the French Polynesian islands. It's reportedly Obama-approved, too. "This is an ideal resort for families as well as honeymooners and clients seeking seclusion," said Dan Ilves, senior vice president of Travel Store. "All activities are included and for those interested, there is onsite marine research center." You can relax even further knowing that The Brando uses a deep seawater air-conditioning system and relies entirely on renewable energy sources. Ilves encourages guests to take a tour of the facility, which he says is fascinating.A one-bedroom villa, which can hold up to two adults and two children, starts at $2,600 per night.
Several travel agents are fans of the Grand Velas resorts, and for good reason. "My top choice for an all-inclusive in Mexico is Grand Velas," said Sheri Kirkman, a travel consultant with Ariva Travel. "They offer children-friendly areas in the resorts and adult-only areas. The food is top notch." Grand Velas resorts are located in Playa del Carmen, Nuevo Vallarta, and Los Cabos. The all-inclusive package for a one-bedroom accommodation begins at $1,100 a night.
Soak in desert beauty at the Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona. Set among the Rincon Mountains, Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest, this all-inclusive engages people of all ages. Do yoga, go on a sunset horse ride, hike, mountain bike, swim, fish -- the options are endless. For a double occupancy room, the all-inclusive deal starts at $655 per night.
Do you have a dream of horseback riding, mountain hikes and catching wild Chinook salmon with your family and friends? Yes? Plan a getaway to Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, on a remote section of Canada's Vancouver Island, ASAP. "[Clayoquot is] a somewhat exclusive, luxury summer camp for families," Ilves explained. Luxury tent accommodations keep you keep you close to nature but in absolute comfort. The slew of activities includes horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, spa services and more.The all-inclusive rate starts at $1,800 per person, per night.
The villa-style all-inclusive Alsol resort is set on one of the largest marinas in the Caribbean, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Travelers love the ease of Alsol, as it's only a 10-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport. The all-inclusive package includes three meals a day, certain alcoholic drinks and set activities for kids and adults. The all-inclusive package for a one-bedroom accommodation starts at $367 a night.
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Fregate Island is set in the Seychelles, an island nation in the Indian Ocean off the eastern coast of Africa. "[The resort is] just a 15-minute helicopter ride from Mahe International Airport and a gorgeous, scenic flight," Ilves said. "There is a wonderful kids club to keep little ones occupied." But if you prefer keeping the kids right by your side, observing the natural wildlife around Fregate Island's seven beaches is a total family affair. Conservation of marine life, wildlife and indigenous vegetation is at the heart of this resort.The rate for an all-inclusive private pool residence, which can hold up to two adults and two children, begins at $3,400 per night.
Ilves recommends the Namale Resort and Spa on the Fijian island of Vanua Levu for families with teenage kids, rather than little ones. The all-inclusive resort is set in "one of the best areas for diving and snorkeling, as well as many other activities such as horseback riding and kayaking," he said.The resort is a 30-minute flight from Nadi International Airport and consists of 19 private bungalows and villas.Pricing for an all-inclusive package in a luxury family villa starts at $2,500 a night.
Libretti recommends the St. James's Club if you'd like to enjoy an all-inclusive resort in Antigua. The beachfront resort has a plethora of activities to enjoy, including diving expeditions.Pricing for an all-inclusive package in a double occupancy room begins at $760.
