By Jennifer Olvera
vacations, by definition, are supposed to be relaxing. When it comes to traveling with families, booking an all-inclusive getaway relieves budgetary stress so everyone can focus on spending quality time together. While some all-inclusive destinations are geared toward adults and couples, there are a number of equally posh locales that make families with children feel at home.
Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, Turks and Caicos
Three miles of white, sandy beaches await at this family-friendly spot on Providenciales, where almost all activities, meals at 16 restaurants, drinks and land and water activities---as well as gratuities---are included in the price. Guests can opt to hop aboard a hydrobike or windsurfer or swim in any of the resort's six pools, including a toddler area and pirate-themed water park, set amidst Caribbean-, French- and Italian-inspired villages. Family suites decked in rich fabrics and mahogany details range from oceanfront rooms to suites and villas; all include butler, room and concierge services. Additional perks for kids include Sesame Street characters, Xbox 360 and a teen disco. Grownups will appreciate the property's 12 bars and the fact that there's a supervised kid's camp for children of all ages.
1 Lower Bight Rd.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
(649) 946-8000; (800) 726-3257
Franklin D. Resort, Jamaica
This all-suite, hacienda-style property mimics the feel of a tropical home and is situated amidst thick foliage with views of the Caribbean Sea. Unlimited top-shelf drinks appease adults, as does the fact that a "Vacation Nanny"---who will change diapers and read stories---is included in the room price. A range of supervised, age-appropriate activities keep kids occupied each day. Among the choices are donkey rides, picnics and arts and crafts projects. Activities the whole family can enjoy include glass-bottom boat rides, kayaking, snorkeling and wind-surfing. There's also a family disco. Rooms have a full kitchen; however, meals are included, as are alcoholic beverages. Of the property's four restaurants, two are adults-only, so parents have the opportunity to get away.
Main Street
Runaway Bay, Jamaica
(800) 654-1337
Starfish Trelawny Resort and Spa, Jamaica
Located along a 3-mile white sand beach with four swimming pools with water slides and a swim-up bar, and countless water sports, this resort appeals to an all-age clientele. There is also a flying trapeze, rock-climbing wall and banana boat. A children's center is open daily, and after-hours babysitting services are provided for a nominal fee. An Internet cafe keeps family members connected, while the spa offers a spot to unwind. Dining options are plentiful, ranging from a buffet to four a la carte eateries that dish up Mediterranean, Japanese, Italian and Jamaican cuisines. Meals, drinks and some activities and entertainment are included in the room price. However, guests who want to take advantage of a more extensive all-inclusive plan must purchase a "platinum plan," which affords unlimited meals, premium drinks and motorized water sports.
54 Main St.
Falmouth, Jamaica
(877) 467-8737
Atlantis Resort, Bahamas
Among the biggest draws at this popular resort is its marine habitat, which features over 50,000 animals and more than 200 species. Guests can view moon jellies and piranhas through underwater tunnels, explore open-air lagoons and choose to (safely) walk with sharks at the bottom of a shark exhibit. Of course, participating in an interactive dolphin adventure is an option, too. Dining choices range from adult-friendly (restaurants from Bobby Flay, Nobu Matsuhisa and Jean-Georges Vongerichten are on site) to family-ready; there are 21 destinations to choose from. There's a spa, casino, library, pottery studio and fitness center on the property, too. Guests can select from a variety of room categories (both casual and luxurious) as well as pick their own inclusive plans. However, guests also can choose to book accommodations only.
One Casino Dr.
Paradise Island, Bahamas
(888) 877-7525
About the Author:
Jennifer Olvera, a DePaul grad, has been writing professionally--and covering topics from health to weddings, shopping and the green scene--for over a decade. In addition to penning international travel features for Chicago Tribune, LA Times and Frommers.com, she has become one of the preeminent dining, food, and entertainment writers in Chicago. Jennifer's work has regularly appeared in Zagat and Chicago Sun-Times as well as on Citysearch.com and Gayot.com.
