Educational travel: hotel programs that teach while vacationing

Will you be pulling your kids out of school this year for travel? You can admit it here...we do it too! While we believe that travel aids a child's education, we also value the lessons they're learning in school. Therefore, when we do take kids out of class, we try to find museums to visit or hotel programs for kids that offer classes, lessons, or special programming. Below, our favorite hotel … [Read more...]

Warm weather vacations to book now

Ready to get away from cold winter weather, but a 'lie on the beach' vacation isn't quite your style? The following warm weather vacations at family-friendly resorts offer some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving for kids and teens. Stay active, be warm!   Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, Key West, Florida: Tucked away on Key West’s southern edge along the largest private … [Read more...]

ATV adventures and snorkeling with Punta Venado

There are as many Riviera Maya eco-tours as there are amazing natural wonders along this part of the Caribbean, and each offer something a little bit different. We've reviewed the fast-action activities with Alltournative, but for a change of pace, a day with Punta Venado offers both ATV adventures and snorkeling, plus relaxation. Don't worry: the kids will still be highly entertained with … [Read more...]

A day with Alltournative tours: Tulum and Jungle Maya adventure with tweens and teens

Mexico's Riviera Maya is rich with geological and cultural excursions for active families. It's system of cenotes (underground rivers) and abundance of Mayan ruins are accessed by many tour operators, but which one to pick? We spent the day with Alltournative Tours, a leading eco-archaeological guide service specializing in active, adventurous tours. Like most local tour companies, … [Read more...]

Swim with whale sharks in Cancun Mexico

One of the most memorable excursions in Cancun for my family was to swim with whale sharks. These harmless giants can be found in the open water approximately 20 miles off the coast of Cancun (past Isla Mujeres) from May to September, and if you're visiting the Riviera Maya area during this time period with older kids and teens, it's definitely an activity to consider. Who to book with: We … [Read more...]

Top three hidden gems of the Caribbean for families

As a top destination for cruises and tours, the Caribbean has no shortage of enticing tropical landscapes and attractions. The region’s predictably warm, balmy weather and aquamarine sea attract visitors year-round. And yet, the Caribbean still harbors some lesser-known places which can offer a more low-key excursion. These are not the types of places you’ll find all-you-can-eat buffets or … [Read more...]

Dreams Punta Cana Resort and Spa

Playas Uvero Alto Provincia La Altagracia Dominican Republic This review was submitted by Lindsay Aycan of Toronto, Ontario, who traveled to Punta Cana with her husband and two kids in July 2010. Punta Cana Resort and Spa, an all-inclusive property owned by Dreams, is located in the Dominican Republic, situated next to both the tropical jungle and the ocean. Recently named the Best … [Read more...]