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Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great …

August 20, 2018 By admin

Having an only child can be tough for a water park getaway so we started a tradition of bringing along my daughter’s “vacation brother.” Last year we went to Sesame Place and this summer we headed off on a close-to home getaway to Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, NY.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

I knew the kids would love the non-stop activities and I was hopeful the moms would have some time to relax. Lucky for us, I was right. Great Wolf makes things super easy with waterproof room key wristbands (yes, they also charge things to the room), plenty of luggage carts and an easy to navigate layout. The kids put on their complimentary wolf ears at check-in and we were ready for fun.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

There are several Great Wolf Lodge locations around the country and each one varies a bit but today I’m sharing my top 10 tips for visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

1) Allow ample time to explore the indoor waterpark.

Great Wolf Lodge’s indoor park is the main attraction here so you’ll want to explore all the waterslides (ranging from single tubes to rafts), pools and hot tubs, lazy river and splash areas. My daughter especially enjoyed the wave pool, rope climbing lily pad area and the many water slides.

There are activities for tots to teens and lots of seating areas and tables where you can leave your things while you are in the water. The waterpark seems large at first, but after one lap you’ll have the layout down. Children 48″ and taller will be able to ride most slides and life jackets are provided for young children.

2) If weather permits, don’t miss the outdoor pool area.

The outdoor pool is large with a zero-entry shallow end and plenty of seating. Since my daughter and her friend are good swimmers, they were able to happily swim around while the moms enjoyed frozen drinks under the shaded bar area. Win-win.

We ate lunch here as well and enjoyed prompt service and surprisingly good food (fish tacos, chicken wings and fries for the win).

Best of all, you can enjoy complimentary marshmallow toasting at the end of the day.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

3) The Howlers Peak Ropes Course is awesome for kids of all ages.

The large outdoor ropes course was a big hit with our adventurous kids and I loved that they could go at their own paces. Watching their confidence grow with each crossed path and high-flying slide was amazing. Helpful staff members are available to assist when necessary and everyone is safely attached to a climbing harness.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

The main course is for kids (and adults) 48 inches or taller and a smaller ground level course is available for young children. Be sure to bring sneakers or crocs along for this.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

4) Magiquest is a must!

MagiQuest was definitely the highlight of our trip for the kids. This interactive scavenger hunt combines computer screen stations, enchanted paintings, talking animals, and several fairies, who, when your wand is pointed at them, will offer clues. The game costs $14.99 and the wands range from $17-$45 depending on the topper. Completing the entire series of games can take days so be sure to agree on time limits in advance. I loved watching kids help each other in the hallways as they searched for clues and swapped status updates. The wands can be reused so be sure to bring them if you visit another Great Wolf Lodge.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

5) Check out the Indoor Activities.

From the 24-hour Northern Lights Arcade, Howly Wood XD Theater rollercoaster, to Ten Paw Alley and Howl at The Moon Glow Golf and the Creation Station, kids can participate in many indoor activities.

Some of these are more hidden than others so be sure to look around or ask directions if you get lost. Check out the Paw Pass if you plan to plan to do several of these paid activities.

Scoops Spa is a great spot for pampering.

Scooops® Kid Spa is a great spot for pampering.

6) Save time for Pampering.

All that swimming can get exhausting so if you can, plan some time for pampering. There are spas for grown-ups and children with a wide array of services. Elements™ Spa Salon is a full-service adult spa with a Zen-like atmosphere offering massages, manicures, pedicures and facials. Scooops® Kid Spa specializes in manicures and pedicures for children 12 and under. The pricing is on the expensive side but if you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, this is a great place to indulge. Reservations are recommended.

7) Don’t miss the free entertainment!

From storytime with the Great Wolf characters to dance parties, games, yoga, walks and arts and crafts, there are many free activities offered for kids of all ages. Be sure to bring your camera for the character appearances.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge, Poconos, PA

8) Be sure to pack right.

Depending on the time of year, you won’t need much more than swimsuits, cover-ups, water shoes and goggles. Towels and life jackets are provided and shorts and t-shirt are the norm for clothing around the resort. Leave your fancy clothing home unless you plan to go off property. A waterproof camera, iPhone cover, personal safe and these water park necessities are always good to bring along. Sunscreen and hats are only necessary if you are visiting in summer. The indoor waterpark is kept at a warm 84-degrees so don’t overdress.

9) Use the resort facilities and waterpark after check-out.

Guests at Great Wolf Lodge check out at 11am but can use all the facilities for the remainder of the day. Store your suitcases in the car and rent a locker for the day if you have time. Pack a pool bag with swim items and a dry bag with a change of clothing to wear home.

10) Choose your room carefully.

Great Wolf Lodge offers a wide range of suites to fit all families and budgets. Standard Family Suites feature two queen beds and a full-size sleeper sofa making them a great choice for families of 4-6.

Other suites feature themed kids sleeping areas with bunk beds, a queen bed and sofa sleeper and other room amenities include fireplaces, Whirlpools and private master bedrooms. We were upgraded to a spacious Majestic Bear Suite which featured a large breakfast bar and patio overlooking the pool. Check out the room floorplans before you book. Each suite at Great Wolf Lodge includes a microwave, mini fridge, coffee maker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board. I recommend bringing along easy to make breakfast items as well as beverages and snacks.

Have you visited a Great Wolf Lodge? Tell me below in the comments.

We received reduced pricing on our accommodations for review purposes but all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Road Tripping: Escape to Long …

May 22, 2018 By admin

As a born and bred Long Islander, Long Island’s East End holds many fond memories like ice cream eating, swimming, berry picking, pumpkin picking, animal-petting and soaking up the fresh air and sunshine. When I received an invitation to enjoy a girlfriend’s getaway including visits to the East End’s most popular attractions, I quickly secured my spot. Long Island’s East End is a great summer (or fall) escape for couples, families and girlfriend getaways and this trip did not disappoint.

Escape to Long Island’s East End

Travel Tips

Driving to Long Island’s East End can be brutal so try not to go during peak times (especially Friday afternoon) if you can. Break up the drive with a stop at the Long Island Welcome Center (exit 51-52) where you’ll find super clean bathrooms, local snacks and beverages, plus outdoor space for kids (and dogs) to run around.

Long Island, East End, Family Travel, Summer Travel

The Long Island Welcome Center is en route to Long Island’s East End

Where to Stay

Long Island's East End, Long Island, Hotels, Family Friendly

Hotel Indigo is an ideal pick for a getaway to Long Island’s East End.

We stayed at Hotel Indigo Long Island – East End in Riverhead which is right off the Long Island Expressway and centrally located to all of Long Island’s East End attractions. I loved the modern decor and chic lobby vibe reminiscent of a boutique hotel, a rare find in Suffolk County.

My room was spacious and comfortable with earthy tones, plush bedding and contemporary furnishings. It had all the in-room conveniences I love (spacious bathroom with Aveda bath products and make-up wipes, Keurig coffee maker, free wifi) plus some other perks that are great for families like a dorm-sized fridge and microwaves (just ask at reception). The hotel is also pet-friendly so the whole family can enjoy an east end getaway.

Additional amenities include an outdoor saltwater swimming pool, furnished deck area, fitness center, and spa.

There is a complimentary shuttle to drive guests around and bikes can be borrowed from the lobby. The hotel is a hotspot with locals and visitors with special events throughout the summer and fall so check the schedule before you book your stay.

For dining, the Bistro 57 restaurant is one of the best in the area offering farm fresh dining and locally brewed beverages with innovative presentations (weekends book up, so make reservations in advance).

Shopping

The Riverhead Tanger Outlet Mall has something for everyone with shops ranging from Disney and Crocs to Kate Spade and Off-Saks Fifth Avenue, etc. If you’ve got a new home (or maybe a beach house) to decorate, you will definitely want to hit the Pottery Barn, William-Sonoma, Restoration Hardware and West Elm outlets. Stop by the information center to pick up a coupon book (free for AAA members).

Eating and Drinking

Long Island’s famed wineries are spread throughout the North Fork so plan to visit one or more depending on your crew. Most wineries offer large areas for picnics and kids are always welcome so pack some sandwiches and outdoor games if you’re taking the family.

Long Island's East End, Winery, Long Island, Travel

Be sure to stop at a winery or two when you visit Long Island’s East End.

We stopped at Osprey Dominion Vineyards where we were treated to a delicious wine tasting and informative vineyard tour. We sampled Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Rose, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, as well as a warmed Spice Wine.

Their award-winning wines are proudly displayed inside and gifts and snacks are also available for purchase.

We really enjoyed hanging out on the scenic grounds, sipping wine and listening to live music. Such a perfect girlfriend getaway moment.

If you do bring kids here, a food truck serves kid-friendly fare like hot dogs and corn.

Another fun spot is The Riverhead Ciderhouse. Check out the outdoor garden area or lounge on vintage sofas by the fire.

Long Island's East End, Riverhead Ciderhouse, Long Island Travel

Come hungry to The Riverhead Ciderhouse on Long Island’s East End.

If you love cider, you’ll have a hard time deciding what to order but the $10 cider tasting is the perfect solution. I tried the Apple Annie, Cherry, Strawberry and Spring Fling and they were all deliciously smooth and refreshing.

This is a great place to drop by any time of day but I recommend coming hungry so you can sample their tasty culinary offerings like giant pretzels, table-made guacamole and innovative pizzas.

The large apple orchards can be seen from the parking lot so you know everything is super fresh.

If you love pies, make a quick visit Briermere Farms. They only sell whole pies to go (fresh or frozen) but if you’re looking for a small snack, I highly recommend the Raspberry Walnut Squares.

For the Kiddos

Garden of Eve Organic Farm & Market – Long Island’s East End was originally all farmland and there are plenty of farms and gardens left to explore. If you’re coming with kids, Garden of Eve is a nice option due to its manageable size, affordable attractions (just $5) and fun offerings like a bouncy castle, climbing tower, pedal cars, slides, hay rides and petting zoo.

Garden of Eve Organic Farm, Iong Island, East End, Summer Travel, Family Travel

Pick up some fresh produce at the Garden of Eve Organic Farm & Market on Long Island’s East End.

We enjoyed a hay ride around the farm where we learned about the organic produce grown each season and finished our visit feeding the cutest animals including baby lambs.

Long Island Aquarium – Located on Main Street in Riverhead, Long Island Aquarium is a full-scale aquarium with a theme around the “Lost City of Atlantis.”

Long Island Aquarium, East End, riverhead, family Travel

Kids of all ages will enjoy visiting the Long Island Aquarium on Long Island’s East End.

One of Long Island’s best family attractions, the indoor and outdoor Aquarium features tropical fish, butterflies, bugs and birds as well as a gargantuan shark tank, interactive ray bay, penguins, a touch tank, an adorable sea lion show and so much more.

Have some ice cream and stroll the outdoor waterfront area if the weather is nice.

Splish Splash

For a family-friendly day trip, stop by the East End’s famed water park. I’ve been here with my daughter several times it never grows old.

Splish Splash is a great family outing on Long Island’s East End.

From wave pools and lazy rivers to log fumes and thrill rides, you will be laughing and splashing the entire day. There are toddler and baby areas so even the youngest babes can enjoy a day here.

Have you visited Long Island’s East End? Tell me your favorite memory in the comments below.

Special thanks to Hotel Indigo – Long Island East End for accommodations and some meals during my stay and to Osprey Dominion Vineyards, The Riverhead Ciderhouse, Garden of Eve Organic Farm and Market and Long Island Aquarium for hosting my visits. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Where to go: Caribbean …

February 2, 2017 By admin

Do warm temperatures, fancy pools, watersports, scenic beaches and tropical beverages sound good to you and your kids? Same here! If you’re looking for a quick family-friendly winter getaway filled with thrilling activities, you can’t go wrong with a Caribbean adventure.

Where to go: Caribbean Adventure for Families

The Caribbean Tourism Organization has named 2017 the Year of Adventure in the Caribbean with a cutesy A-Z list of fun activities below but first I’ll share some of my favorite family friendly Caribbean resorts. Click the links to read my reviews…

Nickelodeon Resort, Punta Cana – Think luxe accommodations, awesome cuisine, character entertainment, sports galore and nonstop water-park fun.

Beaches Turks and Caicos – Your kids will beg to stay and play with the Sesame Street gang at this famed all-inclusive resort where you pay one price for everything (including watersports!).

Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, Bahamas – This mega-resort is sure to please adventurous kids of all ages with aquatic adventures, animal encounters, top cuisine and pampering accommodations.

THE ‘A to Z’ OF ADVENTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN

Awaken your love of sea creatures by swimming with dolphins in Anguilla

Buckle up for go-kart racing in Barbados

Climb Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica

Dive among the famous shipwrecks in Grenada

Explore the historical forts of Curaçao

Fall in love with nature discovering rare birds in St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Gaze at the beauty of Angel Falls in the Venezuelan rainforest

Hike the Waitikubuli Trail in Dominica

Immerse yourself in the local French culture of St. Martin

Jump Up at Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago

Kayak with eco-tours in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Learn to “cook like a local” in Haiti

Mountain bike around Martinique

Nourish your senses with the sights and sounds of nightlife in Sint Maarten

Open your mind to new experiences in Cuba

Parasail by day; party by night in the British Virgin Islands

Quench your thirst for discovery with cave tubing in Belize

Reach new heights while sky diving in St. Kitts & Nevis

Surf’s up! “Hang 10” along Rincón Beach on the northwest coast of Puerto Rico

Take to the skies with an aerial tour of Guyana

Unleash the explorer in you with a visit to a drive-in volcano in Saint Lucia

Visit Stingray City in the Cayman Islands

Water sports, water sports, water sports throughout the Islands of The Bahamas

Xmarks the spot! Learn stories of hidden pirate treasures in Antigua & Barbuda

YOLO! Climb The Quill in St. Eustatius or visit the Montserrat Observatory to erupt your fascination with volcanoes

Zipline through tropical rainforests in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Do you have a favorite Caribbean island? Tell me below in the comments.

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Tips for Visiting Nickelodeon …

September 21, 2016 By admin

What’s a great spot for a family vacation? Everyone asks me that question and today I’m sharing my new favorite answer…

My 6-year old daughter and I just returned from the brand new Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana where young Nickelodeon fans and luxe resort loving parents can kick back and enjoy a five-star Caribbean beach vacation wrapped up in an easy to plan, all-inclusive experience. With gorgeous beaches and pools, plush accommodations, entertainment for all, five-star culinary experiences, pampering amenities and water park fun, Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is sure to please parents and kids alike. Here’s what you need to know…

Tips for Visiting Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana

BRING SMALL BILLS – Staying at an all-inclusive resort is the key to a relaxing family getaway for me as I can say “yes” to kiddie-coladas without calculating costs. Gratuities are included in the pricing but tips are always appreciated so be sure to stock up on small bills for drivers, housekeepers, bellhops and airport personnel. Tip: The Dominican Republic requires a $10 tourist card for each traveler (paid at the airport) so be sure to have cash on hand.

Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana features 208 incredible suites.

SUITES ARE SWEET – From Pad Suites and Flats to Swim-Up Suites and SpongeBob’s signature villa, The Pineapple, the resort’s 208 suites are really amazing with spacious bathrooms (think double sinks and a free standing tub), complimentary WIFI, free phone calls and a fully stocked (all-inclusive) mini-bar. For pool loving families, the Swim-Up Suites are not to be missed. Tip: Bring pool floats, kickboards and swimmies.

SUN PROTECTION IS A MUST – The Caribbean sun is super strong so be sure to bring along plenty of sunscreen, hats, rashguards and sunglasses for all. Beach cabanas can be reserved a day in advance and there are plenty of umbrellas around the lounge chairs at the beachfront infinity pool and Aqua Nick area. Tip: Lounge chairs at the infinity pool fill quickly so get there early if you can.

The Nickelodeon character breakfasts are a must for kids.

BOOK THE CHARACTER BREAKFAST IN ADVANCE – If you’re visiting with kids (and I bet you will be), you will not want to miss this fun filled breakfast at Zest. This was our favorite meal and a great way to mix, mingle and dance with my daughter’s favorite Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob, Dora and Paw Patrol. Tip: There are two versions each week so be sure to book the one with your kid’s favorite characters.

BRING SOME TOYS AND SIPPY CUPS – For young kids, bring along some age appropriate toys and activities as these items are very pricey on site. Also, drinks are served to children in real glasses which is a plus for me but if you’re nervous about that, pack some sippy cups. Tip: The airport is approximately 45 minutes away so keep some toys handy for the ride.

Be sure to order dessert at Spacewalker.

SET YOUR DINNER SCHEDULE IN ADVANCE – Many of the dinner restaurants require advance reservations so set these up at Spacewalker, Wok Wok and Verdello, the most wanted family friendly reservations. Tip: Be sure to order dessert at Spacewalker and have your camera ready when it arrives.

Sugarcane’s breakfast offerings are sure to please kids and adults alike.

MAKE THE MOST OF KARISMA’S GOURMET INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE – From over-the-top breakfast selections, poolside dining, casual fare and 24-hour room service to themed restaurants, bars, lounges and adults only dining, make sure to sample the dozens of dining options. Tip: Don’t miss the Machete Burger at BRGRS.PH if you’ve got a hungry crew.

The Just Kiddin’ ball pit at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is so fun.

CHECK OUT AQUA NICK AND JUST KIDDIN’ – Aqua Nick was by far my daughter’s favorite spot with its lazy river, pools, splash center, slides, water cannons, slimings and gigantic nose shower. The colorful Just Kiddin’ kids club was a close second with its giant toy collection, crafts area, video game zone and big orange slide that ends in a huge ball pit. Tip: You can’t arrive at Just Kiddin’ in wet bathing suits so dry off first and bring a change of clothes.

Vassa Spa features five al fresco treatment areas.

STEAL SOME ADULT TIME – While the kids are enjoying all the fabulous kiddie offerings, parents can sneak away for some pampering at the 14,000 square foot Vassa Spa, one of the most beautiful spas I’ve ever seen. Tip: Book one of the outdoor massage services and be sure to leave time to enjoy the pools and sauna.

The Caribephoto team at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is great at capturing vacation memories on film. (Photo credit: Caribephoto)

SMILE FOR SOME AWESOME PHOTOS – The resort has so many gorgeous backdrops you will definitely want to capture the family on film. My favorite spots include the beachfront infinity pool, slime time, Aqua Nick and the beach. Vacations are a great time for professional photos and the Caribephoto team took some really great photos of my daughter so be sure to check them out to arrange a family photo shoot or just look for their photographers around the resort. Tip: Bring a GoPro or waterproof phone case to capture all the fun Aqua Nick moments.

For more details, read my Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana review on TravelMamas.

What’s your favorite thing about the new Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana? Tell me below in the comments.

Thank you to Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana for hosting my stay. All opinions are mine, as always. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

2016 Best Family Vacations in …

April 25, 2016 By admin

Since I’m in Disney World this week (be sure to follow along on Instagram and Snapchat!), I thought I’d share some exciting findings from the 2016 Family Fun Travel Awards which ranked some of the best family vacations. The winners include the most family friendly resorts, historic sites, national parks, museums, cities and more. Without further ado, here are the winners in the Northeast category…

2016 Family Fun Travel Awards – Northeast

Best Family Vacations in the Northeast – Hershey, PA

Top Family Resort: The Hotel Hershey, PA
This is one sweet hotel. You could spend a whole vacation on the premises, enjoying indoor and outdoor pools, walking trails, a ropes course and zip line, kayaking, and more. But you wouldn’t do that, would you? No, you wouldn’t, because the roller coasters and waterslides of Hersheypark and the delicious desserts of Hershey’s Chocolate World are minutes away by shuttle.

Hershey, Pennsylvania is one of my favorite vacation spots! If you’re heading to the sweetest place on earth be sure to check out my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Hersheypark and Top 10 Family Friendly Things to Do in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Best Family Vacations in the Northeast – The Statue of Liberty

Top Historic Site: Statue of Liberty National Monument/ Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, NY & NJ
Between 1892 and 1954, more than 12 million immigrants debarked on Ellis Island under the blazing torch of Lady Liberty. Today, families still visit these iconic American monuments by boat, but they’re highly advised to reserve tickets far in advance. Ellis Island’s kid-geared audio tours paint a vivid picture of life as an immigrant; and if you’re ready for the burn (and are over 4 feet tall), venture the 377-step climb to Lady Liberty’s crown.

The Statue of Liberty is a perfect day trip for a NYC vacation or staycation. Before you go, be sure to check out my Top 5 Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty.

Top National Park or Preserve: White Mountain National Forest, NH
This wilderness park takes up about a quarter of the state of New Hampshire—and outdoor fun is serious business here. In winter, families flock here to ski; in summer, they come to hike, bike, boat, and explore granite caves (try Polar Caves Park in Rumney, NH). The base towns of North Conway, Jackson, and Lincoln all offer diverse lodging and dining options.

Top Children’s Museum: The Strong Museum of Play, Rochester, NY
A leader in the field of play and games, The Strong is a research center, toy museum, and all-around amazing interactive kid space rolled into one. The indoor butterfly garden, climbing wall, aquariums, and mini passenger train complement a host of hands-on learning areas, including the new Build, Drive, Go exhibit that features construction toys and vehicles of all types.

We’ve visited this museum on several occasions and it is definitely worth the trip.

Best Family Vacations in the Northeast – Boston, MA

Top Kid-Friendly City: Boston
Boston is big enough to offer a smorgasbord of awesomeness, from the New England Aquarium and Fenway Park, to first-class art, science, and children’s museums. Even so, it never feels like a mega-city—it’s walkable and clean, with good public transport and distinct areas to explore, like the Italian North End (homemade pasta!), Boston Harbor, and the bustling college town of Cambridge. Plus, it’s the birthplace of the American Revolution, which even the most jaded tween has to admit is pretty cool.

Boston is one of my favorite US cities. If you’re headed to Beantown this summer, be sure to check out Boston with Kids: Top 10 Family Friendly Attractions.

Have you visited any of these family friendly spots? Tell me below in the comments.

Thanks to Momtrends for inviting me to the #Momtrendstravel blogger event and providing me with a goody bag. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

How to Save Money at Atlantis …

October 30, 2015 By admin

Unless you live under a rock, you’ve heard how fabulous and fun Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is for family vacations. All that fun comes with hefty price tag but today I’m going to tell you how to save money at Atlantis.

How to Save Money at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, Bahamas

Read on to find out some of my favorite money saving tips for visiting this kid-friendly Caribbean hot spot.

The best way to experience Atlantis Paradise Island Resort without breaking the bank is to stay at the nearby Comfort Suites Paradise Island hotel. Most travelers don’t know this but Comfort Suites Paradise Island hotel guests receive free access to Atlantis’ exclusive features (think water parks, pools and beach) and charging privileges in all restaurants and bars. The newly renovated property is within walking distance and rates include daily breakfast and free Wi-Fi. You’re welcome!

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Save Money, Budget, Family Travel

Many rooms at Atlantis offer stocked kitchens so families can prepare meals.

I always bring emergency food and snacks with me but you’ll save a ton of money if you stock an extra suitcase with snacks and breakfast/lunch friendly food like peanut butter and jelly. When we stayed at The Reef, our only breakfast option was a super busy (and painfully slow) Starbucks and it was either wait for a $5 muffin or take a shuttle over to another area for breakfast each morning. If you don’t want to travel around the large property with hungry kids, bring food from home or stock up at the supermarket on your way to the resort. PS – Many guest rooms have family-friendly kitchenettes.

Atlantis is the opposite of all-inclusive and this means you will find yourself shelling out big bucks for extras or saying no to your kids all day. To avoid this, get some activities offered on property (like glitter tattoos) in advance and surprise your kids with them during the trip. When we visited over the summer, there was a decorate-your-own-cupcake activity that cost around $10 per cupcake so be sure to manage your kids’ expectations for extras and souvenirs before you go.

There is no shortage of great restaurants at Atlantis and many of the worlds best chefs have outposts here. One of the best budget friendly options is dining family style at Carmine’s where kids and adults can share Italian favorites and desserts without breaking the bank. If you’re traveling with young children, most restaurants offer affordable kid meals that can often be shared as well.

Atlantis, How to Save Money, Budget Travel, Beach Toys

Bring your own snorkel gear and beach toys.

Bring your own snorkels, water toys and other beach essentials. I know these can be bulky to travel with but you will save a lot of money not having to rent or buy them on property. The resort charges $12 an hour to rent a snorkel and fins so if you plan to snorkel, it pays to bring your own. If you travel a lot, stock up on beach toys at the end of summer when a big bag of sand toys is just $3 and you can leave them behind without feeling guilty.

Take advantage of complimentary activities at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort. There are plenty of free activities for guests staying at Atlantis including movies, The Dig, character parades, casino lessons, gym access and more so be sure to work these into your schedules.

If you’re planning a trip to Atlantis, be sure to check out my latest TravelMamas.com posts:

Top 20 Things To Do at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort

5 Things to Do on Paradise Island with Kids in the Bahamas

What are your favorite money saving vacation tips?

If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Pretty in Pink. Everything …

October 8, 2015 By admin

If you follow me on Instagram, you know that one of my daughter’s favorite New York City haunts is The Plaza Hotel.

The Plaza Hotel, New York City, NYC with Kids

Pretty in Pink. Everything Eloise at NYC’s Plaza Hotel

If you think this legendary NYC hotel is just for grown-ups, think again. From The Plaza Food Hall (with fro-yo, cupcakes and cookies galore) to Rawther Fancy Tea Parties at the hotel’s Eloise Shop and Afternoon Tea at The Plaza’s Palm Court, there are plenty of adventures for kids of all ages.

Plaza Hotel, New York City, Pretty in Pink, Eloise at The Plaza

Pretty in Pink. Everything Eloise at NYC’s Plaza Hotel

Check out my All Things Eloise at The Plaza story on TravelMamas.com to find out my favorite Eloise inspired activities.

Do you have a favorite Plaza Hotel memory? Tell me below in the comments.

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Fancy Treats in NYC: Afternoon …

June 2, 2015 By admin

Most little girls love to host tea parties so you can imagine my daughter’s excited face when I told her we would be celebrating her fifth birthday with afternoon tea at The Plaza Hotel. Most of her teatime knowledge comes from Fancy Nancy (Pinkies up!) which meant she immediately started planning her “fancy” tea party outfit.