Thursday, April 17, 2008

Family Vacation News: Windjammer Cruises - Out of Biz?

Windjammer Cruises -- with sailings on elegant tall-masted ships, the antithesis of the big cruise line behemoths-- has been regularly offering summer family programs in the Caribbean, with "Junior Jammers" and "Teen Jammers" activities. Alas, that fantasy family vacation has faded out, according to reports at Cruisemates.com that Windjammer Cruises are officialy out of business. Yet the Windjammer Cruises website shows no signs of demise. So presumably the story is still unfolding... hopefully someone will continue to run cruises on such beautiful ships.
Sunday April 6, 2008 permalink comments (0)
All-Inclusives for Family of Five
Families with three kids are often made to feel like "fifth wheel" outsiders who can't fit into regular rooms designed for four. Many hotels and resorts offer adjoining rooms as a solution, but that's an expensive option and also best suited for families with older kids.
So it's welcome news that popular holiday packager Apple Vacations has a set of promotions for "families of five", at well-known all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the DR. Even nicer, pricing is clearly indicated for adults and for kids.
check out Apple's Family of Five packages
more suggestions for Families of Five more about all-inclusive resorts
Photo of Hotel Marina El Cid Riviera Maya © Teresa Plowright
Friday April 4, 2008 permalink comments (0)
Family Vacation News: More Nick Hotels Coming
The original Nick Hotel in Orlando is a huge hit with families, and no wonder: with two on-site waterparks, and games and entertainment by Nickelodeon.
Now get ready for up to twenty more Nick Hotels around the world, created as a partnership between the Nickelodeon tv channel and the giant hotel company, Marriott International.
The first "Nickelodeon Resort by Marriott" will open in San Diego in 2010. Read more.
Wednesday April 2, 2008 permalink comments (0)
Hawaii News & Deal
I've long been interested in the Molokai Ranch and Lodge, on the less-known island of Molokai: the property has a staggering 64,000 acres - over 35% of the area of the island-- including white-sand beach; and lodging includes the intriguing option of "tentalows", canvas bungalows on wood platforms, with beds, private bath, and solar-powered lights.
The Molokai Ranch and Lodge is the major-- if not the sole-- player on the island for tourism, so I was surprised to read this week that this unique property is closing down. It's a tale of disputes over what new development will be allowed on the property-- our Guide for Hawaii for Visitors has details.
Also in Hawaii -- and on a much lighter note-- some spring promotions are on offer at the Hanalei Colony Resort, on Kauai's North Shore. Kauai's a verdant island and the North Shore is a beautiful place to stay; this laid-back resort has super-large suites, and excellent dining and spa on-site. Check out this and other family travel deals.
more about Hanalei Colony Resort Top Things to Do on Kauai for Families
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Tuesday April 1, 2008 permalink comments (0)
Ski Season Extended...
Spring skiers can enjoy the slopes for an extra week at family-run, family-friendly Okemo ski resort, thanks to abundant snow: closing date has been moved to April 20 2008. There's some good deals on the slopes in these last weeks, too.
Okemo -- near the small town of Ludlow, Vermont -- has five mountain areas, free skiing and riding for kids six and under, free beginner lifts.
more about Okemo more ski resorts, by region
Monday March 31, 2008 permalink comments (0)
Walt Disney World Vacations
If you're planning your summer vacation, your thoughts may be turning to Orlando and Walt Disney World. Where to stay, is one big question. Orlando has so many choices, from luxury resorts that welcome kids, to NickHotel (with onsite water parks, and Nickelodeon theme), to budget-minded family-friendly hotels.
But there are many who will only stay "in the World". The Disney World resorts -- Luxury, Moderate, and Value-- all meet a high standard, and have the Disney ambiance; and all -- even Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground-- confer a great set of perks.
Free shuttle from the airport, Extra Magic Hours in the theme parks...
Read about Perks of Staying at a Disney World Resort
see other Orlando Resort Top Choices

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