Boston with kids: a stay at Marriott’s Custom House

Marriott's Custom House is hands down the most unique Marriott Vacation Club property I've ever seen. Originally built in 1847 as a--you guessed it--custom house for 1/5th of the world's wealth brought in at the busy harbor, the hotel is one of the most impressive historical buildings in all of Boston, and yet its one-of-a-kind features are seamlessly integrated with Marriott Vacation Club's … [Read more...]

The Four Seasons Vancouver: kid-friendly luxury

Last week, had I been asked to describe the Four Seasons family of resorts, I would have used phrases such as 'exceptional reputation', 'luxury accommodations', or 'famed attention to detail'. After spending three blissful days at the Four Seasons Vancouver, I can add: 'family-friendliness'. Surprised? You shouldn't be. The same qualities that make the Four Seasons Vancouver an outstanding … [Read more...]

Courtyard by Marriott Portland/Beaverton

8500 S W Nimbus Drive Beaverton, Oregon The Courtyard by Marriott in Beaverton makes for a nice, centralized home base while exploring the Portland area. While we'd normally stay downtown and take advantage of the MAX system, if you plan to visit the suburbs as well as the city center, Beaverton is a good option. We had a mixed bag of service at this location. Prior to arrival, I was … [Read more...]

A Pit Stop a Day (Day 23): Embassy Suites Sacramento

We spent our last night on the road at the Embassy Suites Sacramento Riverfront Promenade (100 Capitol Mall, Sacramento CA). Embassy Suites is a favorite hotel chain of mine due to their high quality amenities, top-notch service, and the extras they provide, such as made-to-order complementary breakfasts and manager's reception' hours with snacks and cool drinks on-hand in the late afternoon. … [Read more...]

A Pit Stop a Day (Day 2): Hyatt Place Portland OR

  9750 NE Cascades Portland, OR Our first overnight of our road trip was spent at Hyatt Place in the Portland Airport Cascade Station area. What a great hotel for families (especially families of 5)! The Hyatt Place is definitely geared with convenience in mind, from the spacious lobby with 'guest kitchen' (where you have access to space to heat your own foods or buy freshly-made … [Read more...]

Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa

3800 South Virginia Street Reno, NV On our long drive from Southern Oregon to Death Valley National Park, my family and I had the pleasure of  pit stopping' for one night at the Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa in Reno, NV. We've made it a point to stay in Reno in the past, praising Reno's all-season outdoor recreation opportunities and increasingly evident family atmosphere, but this time, the … [Read more...]

John Ascuaga’s Nugget Casino Resort

1100 Nugget Avenue Sparks, NV As I disclose whenever compensated while reviewing a location, my family did enjoy a complementary stay at John Ascuaga's Nugget. We did, however, pay full price for all food and extras. This compensation came with no expectations or agreements for a positive review. Due to its night life and casino industry, it's easy to overlook Reno, Nevada as a family … [Read more...]