Azul Beach Hotel: A Riviera Maya boutique all inclusive resort

All-inclusive Mexican hotels are convenient for families, but their sheer size can sometimes mean a lack of a personal touch. Enter the boutique all inclusive resort experience. We've long been fans of boutique hotels for families, but definitely need simplicity of all-inclusive pricing, so we jumped at the chance to try Azul Beach Hotel along Mexico's Riviera Maya. Azul Beach Hotel boasts fewer … [Read more...]

Travel products to protect against Zika Virus

We love family adventure, but we're careful to be mindful of threats to family safety while we travel. Before you go to Central or South America, or the Caribbean, make sure you pack these travel products to protect against Zika or other mosquito-borne illnesses. And of course, always consult a health care professional before any trip to a destination known to have a Zika threat, to discuss any … [Read more...]

Dominican Republic with kids: Power snorkeling at Sosua Beach

During our Fathom cruise in the Dominican Republic, we knew we wanted to both visit a local beach and take a snorkeling trip. We were able to do both during a power snorkeling trip with Wild Play Adventures. Usually, we opt to skip official cruise excursions in favor of booking privately. You get a more personalized experience, usually for less. However, in the case of our DR trip, the … [Read more...]

Dominican Republic with kids: 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

Located in the countryside outside of Puerta Plata, Dominican Republic, the 27 Waterfalls of Damajuana is the most talked-about experience on the north side of the island. Is it worthy of the hype? In a word, yes. What is the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua? The 27 Charcos of Damajagua is exactly what it sounds like: 27 waterfalls in a row in the middle of the Dominican jungle. Unregulated until … [Read more...]

Dominican Republic with kids: Exploring Puerto Plata with Marysol Tours

If you find yourselves on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic near Puerto Plata, you’ve probably come to the island via Carnival or Fathom cruise, to Amber Cove port. (Most all-inclusive resorts are located at the far tip of the island at Punta Cana.) From Amber Cove, the town of Puerta Plata is only about 10 minutes away, and well worth a visit in your exploration of the area. You … [Read more...]

Impact travel with teens: What to expect on a Fathom cruise

If you have kids over age 8, and are ready to dive into some form of volun-tourism while you vacation, a Fathom cruise to the Dominican Republic may be a great place to start. Fathom cruises combine the fun of a cruise vacation with a meaningful way to give back, and, perhaps even more importantly, a way to connect with local people in a meaningful way, getting to understand local issues, customs, … [Read more...]

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Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico with kids

There's a reason I keep writing about vacationing in Puerto Rico with kids: this destination is affordable and convenient to reach from many points in the US and Canada. Within just a few hours, families can be on tropical beaches and exploring a different culture, without even needing a passport (for US citizens). If you're planning a Puerto Rico vacation, we have another great resort pick … [Read more...]

Puerto Rico: An exotic vacation, without the exotic hassles

The following post is written by guest reviewer Sue Rodman of Field Trips with Sue. In many ways, a Puerto Rico vacation is the ideal family friendly destination. While it's undoubtedly in paradise, it's not hard to get to Puerto Rico from the east coast of the US. In short, Puerto Rico is a family-friendly exotic destination made easy. The sun drenched white sand beaches of the … [Read more...]

Puerto Rico hotel review: Condado Plaza Hilton

The following post is written by guest reviewer Sue Rodman of Field Trips with Sue. The sound of crashing waves lulls you to sleep at night, and eases you into the morning. The view is like a cruise ship, nothing but water and white caps as far as the horizon. Welcome to the Condado Plaza Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the only hotel to overlook both the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil … [Read more...]

5 touristy things you must do on Grand Cayman with kids

Sometimes, attractions are touristy for a reason. On Grand Cayman, kitchy fun is alive and well, and well worth a place on your itinerary. The key is to augment these activities with downtime the local way...chilling on a beach house porch, taking a walk through town, or going for a sunset swim. Here's what to do on Grand Cayman with kids (and where to stay to escape the tourist traps). Seven … [Read more...]