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12 Reasons to Stay at the Fairmont San Francisco For the Holidays

I’ve always heard of the Fairmont San Francisco’s wonderful holiday decorations, but never had a chance to see them in person.  I recently spent the night there while in town for business.  I not only got to see their beautiful displays up close, but also toured this historic building, which offers much more than meets the eye to lucky guests who stay here.

Christmas decorations in lobby of Fairmont San Francisco hotel

The lobby is quiet now, but will soon be a popular holiday tourist attraction.

Here are twelve reasons why you should stay at the Fairmont San Francisco, whether you are visiting from out of town, or a Bay Area local looking for a fun family outing.  (West Coast readers:  take advantage of the low fare sales right now for a weekend getaway to SF!)

  1. Beautiful lobby decorations including a 2 story gingerbread house.  (Due to the popularity of the holiday display, public hours may be limited, but hotel guests are guaranteed access.)

    Fun fact: They use so much candy it has to be ordered in July.

  2. Family-friendly accommodations:  Spacious rooms, many that can sleep up to 5.  And double rooms have 2 queen beds, often hard to find in the city!  For an even jollier stay, book the Santa Suite.   And all suites have a sofabed!  (You would be surprised how often hotel suites only accommodate 2 people.)

    This closet! Parents who want privacy can put a crib or rollaway in it. (Trust me, many kids would love this space.)

    1 bedroom suite at Fairmont San Francisco

    There are lots of suites that connect to other rooms, so bring the whole family!

    Dining area in 1 bedroom suite at Fairmont San Francisco

    Not all suites are alike. I can help select the one with the space you need.

  3. Exclusive Virtuoso amenities for my clients:  Daily breakfast for two, $100 food and beverage credit, upgrade on arrival if available, early checkin/late checkout if available, wifi.
    Breakfast buffet at Fairmont San Francisco

    Use your Virtuoso breakfast amenity to eat at the buffet or order ala carte.

    Omelette station at Fairmont San Francisco

    The staff is so friendly!

  4. Another exclusive for my clients:  Access to a private Holiday VIP lounge with snacks served 3x daily.

    Restaurant and lounge at Fairmont San Francisco

    The Holiday VIP Lounge does not open until Dec 14. But don’t worry, I did a quality control check in the Laurel Court bar

  5. A private outdoor garden for guests (and dogs) to enjoy.

    Outdoor garden at the Fairmont San Francisco

    It’s nice to have a quiet retreat when in the middle of a city.

  6. The only luxury hotel with panoramic bay views.
    San Francisco Bay views from Fairmont hotel

    Alcatraz and Angel Island visible from my room. On higher floors, you can also see the Golden Gate Bridge.

    Corner suite at Fairmont San Francisco with panoramic bay views

    And for even better views, book a corner suite!

  7. Rooms with balconies, too!

    Rooms with balconies at Fairmont San Francisco

    They overlook the garden, and face the bay.

  8. An excellent location – walk to Chinatown, Market Street, Union Square.

    Gates to Chinatown in San Francisco

    I never tire of visiting Chinatown.

  9. Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar with live music in the evening – only hotel guests can make advance reservations.

    The Tonga Room was closed for a private event during my stay, but no worries, there were many other ways to get a festive drink.

  10. Excellent use of space:  Plenty of outlets, and even USB ports by the bed.  And I loved the hidden coffee cupboard with a Keurig (my preference over Nescafe).
    Coffee nook closed in hotel room

    Cupboard closed – nice and clean for those of us who don’t like hotel room clutter.

    Coffee nook open in hotel room

    Shelf pulls out for easy access, push it back in when done.

  11. Chromecast in every room so you can stream holiday shows from your laptop or mobile device.

    Suite living room at San Francisco Fairmont

    Love the new decor, all rooms and suites were renovated in 2015.

  12. There’s a dining table inside the gingerbread house!  (Be sure to reserve it early.)

    Dining table inside gingerbread house at Fairmont San Francisco

    Available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

I loved this hotel so much, I booked my own family for another visit before Christmas so that they can enjoy the holiday magic, too.

Contact me to book your stay at the Fairmont San Francisco.  There are many room configurations in two different buildings, so I can explain the pros and cons to pick the best one for you, ensure you receive the exclusive Virtuoso amenities, and reach out to my contact at the hotel to personally oversee your reservation and VIP you.

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5 Expert Tips For Your Private Tour

You’ve made a great first step by booking a private guide at your destination.  You will certainly have a better experience and learn more than if you explored on your own.  Here are five tips to make sure you get the most out of your experience.

Many visitors arrive by bus and just take pictures, but we had the benefit of a driver-guide who told us the current theories and pointed out key details both in and around the henge.

  1.  Make sure you know which admission fees have been paid in advance, and which you are expected to pay for on arrival.  Also check if you need to pay in cash, and try to have exact change if possible.  Sometimes the guide has to go to a special window to purchase tickets, and that makes it faster and easier.  You will also need to have cash for gratuities.  Research the appropriate amount for drivers, guides, and driver/guides for your destination.

    A private guide is a must at a very large site with minimal signage like Pompeii.

  2. Trust the guide to plan your time well.  Often websites or brochures provide little description of of a private tour, because it’s customized to the client.  Tell them in advance any special interests you have, or “must see’s,”  but don’t instruct them too much on what you want to do and see. The point of hiring a private guide is to have their expertise and show you things the other tourists miss. Otherwise, you might as well just rent the headsets and follow around the rest of the crowds!

    People must have wondered why our guide at the Tower of London was pointing out the large grassy area, while they were all crowding around one sign aross the walkway wearing their headsets.

    If traveling with children, it is helpful to let the guide know at the time of booking their particular interests, and anything they have studied in school that may be relate to the destination.

    Our guide talks about the Sistine Chapel, and points out key details to look for when inside, since we are not allowed to speak in there. It was nice to get some fresh air away from the crowds, too!

  3. Let your guide know what you need to make your experience more comfortable.  Tell him/her if you need to walk at a slower pace, you missed or didn’t understand something they said,  you need some water, you need to sit and rest.   (Any serious mobility limitations should be disclosed before you book.)   It’s your tour, and they want to make sure you are enjoying it.

    When biking in Thailand, you can go at your pace, not the pace of the slowest person in a group tour. And stop where & when you want.

  4. Look for clues that you might be running behind, or the guide seems concerned or is trying to speed things up.  Due to cultural differences, some guides might make subtle hints vs saying outright that you are behind schedule. In some cases, especially excursions where there are going to be several stops, they may have the pace scheduled to the minute, and you don’t want to miss something by dawdling early on. When you stop for a meal or in a gift shop, ask how much time you have before you order appetizers, an extra round etc.

    We wrapped up souvenir shopping quickly in Stonehenge because our guide wanted to take us to a lesser known archeological site. We pulled off into a small unmarked parking area, and took a short hike up a hill, to find we had the place all to ourselves.

  5. Speaking of meals, invite your guide to be your guest if you stop to eat.  If they decline, do not push them, as they may want some time alone, or  need to tend to personal business. Also offer to treat them if you get drinks, ice cream, or other snacks along the way.

    Our Tuscany tour included lunch at a winery with the tour guide, prepared by the winery owner’s mother-in-law! The main course was a ragu made from wild boar on the property. We gobbled it down too quickly to take a picture.

I have connections with some of the best guides around the world, who offer everything from short city orientation tours, to highly customized special interest tours, to exclusive behind the scenes experiences.  To make your next trip the best it can be, send an email to suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.

I book my clients with a fantastic driver/guide on the Amalfi coast! (Do you really want to be on a bus or drive yourself?)

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15 Reasons Families and Foodies Love Grand Velas Resorts

If fine dining is an important part of your travels, then you may have turned up your nose at all-inclusive resorts, which have somewhat rightly earned a reputation for “quantity over quality.”  But I urge you to take a look at Grand Velas Resorts, in three Mexico locations, which have broken that mold.

Beautiful entrance to Cabo resort with architectural features and ocean views

Welcome to Cabo!

They are earning woldwide acclaim for offering dining on par with the world’s best restaurants, representing cuisines from around the world, with menus created by internationally acclaimed chefs.  And guests still get all the benefits of the all-inclusive model:  lots of on-site activities included, children and teen programs,  world class spas, evening entertainment, and gorgeous oceanfront views.  (Travelers without kids should take note:  each resort has an adults only section, with adults only pool and adults only restaurants.)

Here are 15 reasons families and foodies are raving about Grand Velas Resorts:

  1. Kids program for ages 4-12 that runs until 11 pm at night, which means a romantic dinner for mom and dad.   Familes and kids can also enjoy bonfire nights, cooking classes, and educational, athletic and artistic activities.

    Child in chef's hat during cooking lesson

    A future chef!

  2. The most expensive wine collection in Mexico.
  3. Five signature restaurants, each with its own chef and kitchen, offering amazing culinary experiences. And no limits on how many times you dine!

    A collage of gourmet entrees and desserts

    These dishes did not come off a steam table.

  4. A spa that was named the best spa in the world by Virtuoso.

    Grand Velas Riviera Maya spa with chaise lounges by pool

    Before spa treatments, guests experience the 7 step Water Journey.

  5. The only all-inclusive restaurant to be awarded AAA 5 Diamonds, headed by a chef with 2 Michelin stars (click to see video) and worldwide acclaim.
  6. Huge suites, at least 1000 sq ft, with either a king or two queen beds.  Two bedroom family suites, and suites with plunge pools are also available.
    Ambassador Suite interior with two queen beds

    Ambassador Suite with 2 queen beds.

    View of ocean from balcony, showing private plunge pool

    Grand Class Suite with plunge pool.

  7. Room service offered 24 hours a day.
  8. Teen club open until midnight with video games, a killer sound system, disco floor & lights, karaoke & their own “bar” for snacks & non-alcoholic drinks.

    Two view of the teen club, one with a pool table and the other of a snack bar.

    The teen club also has video gaming booths, HD screens and seats with built-in speakers. ping pong, foosball and air hockey.

  9. An exclusive wine-tasting experience: a private jet can take guests to the vineyards of Ensenada.
  10. Beautiful oceanfront pools for everyone: adults only,  kiddie pool with water slide, family pool, swim up bars.

    Romantic picture of oceanfront infinity adults only pool

    The perfect place for a luxurious honeymoon or anniversary trip.

  11. The Chocolate Clam tasting menu offered in each restaurant (not a dessert, it’s named for the uniform brown color of its shell).

    A dish served in a chocolate clam, part of the resort's unique tasting menu.

    Make sure you stay long enough to try the tasting menu in each restaurant.

  12. No wristbands! And no waiting in line for restaurant reservations. Your personal concierge takes care of this when you arrive, and checks in with you throughout your stay.
  13. Wine pairings by expert sommeliers.

    Expert sommelier in front of a large wine collection.

    Over 50 wines are availalble to guests at no extra charge.

  14. An in-suite minibar that is personalized and replenished daily.
  15. Baby Concierge who will provide all necessary gear, and arrange for delivery of diapers and other supplies.

Virtuoso amenities guests can receive when they book through me include upgrades on arrival (if available), one way airport transfers, resort credits, spa discounts, a bottle of tequila (amenities vary by resort).

Limited Time Kids Go Free Offer!  

Book by July 31 and kids age 4-12 stay free, plus get other added value perks, for travel through December 18, 2018.  (Terms and conditions apply.)

Aerial views of the three resorts: Los Cabos, Riviera Maya, and Riviera Nayarit

Los Cabos / Riviera Maya / Riviera Nayarit

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No Lacking for Luxury in Miami

The problem with planning a trip to Miami is not finding a hotel, it’s trying to decide on which one, as there are over 15 Virtuoso properties in the Miami area!  So during my 3 night trip in January, I was thrilled to visit several, so that I could understand how to match the right property to my client.

To the beach!

My home hotel was the Faena, centrally located on Miami Beach. If you like technology, then you’ll love this hotel, which doesn’t even have buttons in the elevator.  You enter your floor number and then a private elevator arrives to whisk you nonstop to your destination.Rooms have high tech toilets and central control panels for lighting.  My spacious junior suite could really be called a 1 bedroom as it had a door separating the living area.

The ‘wow’ factor:  a $16M gold-plated woolly mammoth on prominent display in the garden.

No guessing which hotel this is!

The Miami Beach EDITION, a Ritz-Carlton hotel, was a just a few minutes down the beach walk.  The rooms have a minimalist style, perfect for the beach.   Rooms in the bungalow section overlook the retro pool, and include bi-level loft suites with over 1500 sq ft of space for families.

My clients will enjoy their complimentary breakfast here.

I loved the lush grounds which offered plenty of shade, a lovely deck overlooking the main pool, an outdoor poolside bar, and sandy play area for kids.  The fun continues inside with a bowling alley and the smallest ice rink I have ever seen!  A great option for families with kids of all ages.

Parents will strike it big when the kids see this.

When you enter The Setai, you’ll want to stay here even before seeing the rooms, as the lobby lounge and restaurant are stunning.

I could have stayed here all night.

No worries, though, as this all-suite hotel offers spacious luxury suites with kitchens (starting at 600 sq ft), plus 3 infinity pools, and the best views in Miami Beach, since it was built before height restrictions were put in place.

The worst suite you can get at The Setai.

And the best, the 40th floor Penthouse with gorgeous panoramic views.

Upgrade your stay by booking into the Ocean Suite Tower, and you’ll get a 45 min spa treatment, beverages replenished in your suite daily, and complimentary valet parking and car service.

For travelers seeking a quieter beach location, then Acqualina Resort is your dream come true, on Sunny Isles Beach about 30 minutes away from Miami Beach.   It’s just as fantastic, but it’s a residential area without a oceanside promenade, so guests practically have the beach to themselves.

Watch the kids without getting sand between your toes!

Acqualina features some of the largest residential style suites available in the area, in up to 4 bedroom configurations, so it’s perfect for an extended family. And on property amenities include a beachfront grill only available to guests, who can dine by the water or by the pool.

I’d say “home away from home” but my home doesn’t look anything like this.

Suite dreams!

All ages will be happy with amenities including 3 oceanfront pools, the 20,000 sq ft ESPA spa, and AcquaMarine, an innovative ( and complimentary)  marine biology-based children’s program.

If you need me, I’ll be here.

My clients receive the following Virtuoso amenities at these resorts (and sometimes more) when I book their stay:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Breakfast daily for up to two in-room guests
  • $100 Hotel credit
  • Early check-in/late check-out,subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

My trip wasn’t all work and no play.  I got to enjoy an educational and yummy food tour…

When I saw this at the first stop on our food tour, I regretted having breakfast.

…then headed out to the Everglades with some Brownell Travel buddies to see alligators and ride an airboat.

You don’t have to tell me twice.

I highly recommend staying  long enough to enjoy some of the many fun activities Miami has to offer.  It’s important to book early, especially for peak periods like the holidays!

My 10 min of beach time at days’ end.

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Spring Break Inspiration Part 2 – Adventure

Looking for a family vacation that’s full of adventure?  Love wildlife encounters and spectacular natural scenery?  Here are 4 popular destinations for families who like to be on the go and get up close to nature.

Galapagos

Don’t let the small geographic footprint fool you.  It’s packed with incredibly diverse scenery and wildlife, some which cannot be seen anywhere else on the planet.   A Galapagos cruise offers the best variety for families with different interests and ability levels.  You can be on the go from breakfast to dinner,  or take some time to relax on deck and enjoy the scenery.   You can explore underwater or sightsee from a boat, choose between a hike or a paddle, or even get up early for yoga.

Getting the toys ready!

Showing us the love

I had the opportunity to experience Lindblad Expeditions’ new ship in the Galapagos in March, which is great for multi-generational groups because it offers the broadest range of activities, including a glass bottom boat for non-snorkelers.  And their new children’s program developed in partnership with National Geographic is fantastic, even the adults wanted to participate.

Kids are kept busy with scavenger hunts, zodiac driving lessons, photography and video workshops, and even a pizza & movie night.

Mexico

I firmly believe Mexico is underrated as an adventure destination.  If you want to stay at a traditional full service beach resort, yet have some off-property adventures, then this is the place to be.  And there are so many choices for places to stay, you can go back again and again.

The Riviera Maya offers archaeological ruins, cenotes, and fantastic snorkeling, and a huge selection of resorts from large all-inclusives to luxury boutique hotels.

This snorkel trip requires a hard hat!

The Baja peninsula has a more arid climate, and some of the best whale watching and snorkeling in the world.  Other outdoor activities include ATV tours, hiking, and kayaking.

How many kids can brag that they got to pet a gray whale on vacation?

Travelers who aren’t interested in the beach can go on a hiking expedition visiting wilderness lodges in the Copper Canyon, or enjoy cultural sites in colonial cities such as Oaxaca and San Miguel de Allende.

Oaxaca is world famous for its food, my son wants to go back just for these street tacos.

Costa Rica

Sloths and monkeys and iguanas, oh my!  If you want nonstop action and scenery ranging from volcanoes to rainforests to beaches, this is the place to go.  Clients never complain about being bored, if anything they have trouble fitting everything in!

So ugly he’s cute.

Most clients can visit 2 or 3 locations during a 8-10 day trip, if they don’t mind moving around. This allows them to experience a variety of locations like Arenal volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park.  But the resort area of Guanacaste is great for families who prefer to stay in one location, have a traditional resort vacation, but still have access to adventure activities like rafting and ziplining.

Even little ones can have big adventures!

Peru

If you like to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities, then consider a trip to Peru including visits to Cuzco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, which can be done in a 7-10 day itinerary. Families can enjoy short nature walks to full day hikes, purchase crafts at local markets, explore archaeological ruins and temples, or paddle around a lake spotting wildlife.

I don’t want to feed the llama.    Said nobody ever.

 

They won’t ever forget this view.

And if you have the time, this is a great add-on to a Galapagos cruise!

Contact me to start designing a fantastic adventure for your family!

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Spring Break Inspiration Part 1 – Europe

As a family travel specialist, I solve the problems that frustrate parents when they try to plan a trip overseas. Some of the services I provide include:

– Finding guaranteed connecting rooms or family rooms that sleep 3 or more guests
– Arranging age appropriate activities that are fun for everyone
– Hiring expert guides who can engage even young children
– Arranging family photo shoots to capture the memories forever

Happy kids = happy parents (and vice versa!)

My clients also receive exclusive amenities at preferred partner hotels, which may include free nights, daily breakfast, and hotel credits.

Here are offers from some of my clients’ favorite hotels in Europe:

LONDON

The Corinthia Hotel is loved by many clients for its excellent location close to many attractions, luxurious rooms, and huge spa. Virtuoso clients receive a 4th night free through April 22, 2018, and these amenities:

A luxurious retreat after a busy day in London!

  • Daily breakfast for two
  • £85 Hotel Credit
  • Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
  • Access to the extensive Thermal Floor at award-winning ESPA Life at Corinthia
  • Complimentary 24-hour gym access
  • Complimentary Upgrade (if available at check-in)
  • Butler Service for River Suites and Penthouses
  • Complimentary use of the hotel car within Central London (Zone 1)

The award-winning spa-aaaaah.

For travelers who book by April 9, there are bonus amenities! Get all of the above and a choice of one of the following:

  • Guaranteed early check-in
  • Guaranteed late checkout
  • Guaranteed upgrade to the next room category

* Offer applies to Deluxe King Rooms up to The Whitehall Penthouse

Check out The Crafty Concierge which offers lots of great ideas for families in London.

It’s just a 10 min walk to the Golden Jubilee Bridge

PARIS

Esprit St Germain is located near Luxembourg Gardens on the Left Bank, within walking distance of the Louvre and Notre Dame.  Families love it for the warm hospitality towards children of all ages, making it feel like a home away from home.

Book the Prestige room on the top floor to get a private terrace with this gorgeous view.

They are offering a 4th night free through April 30, which includes the following complimentary amenities:

  • Daily American breakfast
  • Lobby bar with champagne, wines, spirits AND minibar in room (yes, complimentary!)
  • WI-FI
  • Access to the fitness centre, steam room, and sauna
  • Access to the business centre
  • Daily newspaper of your choice
  • Flowers and fresh fruits daily

Blackout dates: March 3 to 7, 2017 (inclusive). Valid only for Superior & Deluxe Rooms

Feel like a guest in someone’s home while enjoying complimentary drinks in this “bar.”

ROME

The Hotel Eden near the Spanish Steps just completed an extensive renovation, so it’s more stylish than ever. They are offering a 4th night free through March 31, and my clients are eligible for Dorchester Club amenities:

  • One category upgrade guaranteed at time of booking
  • 100 EU hotel credit
  • Daily full breakfast buffet for 2 people
  • Unlimited wifi for unlimited devices

Who says historic hotels have to have dark rooms?

They still have their lovely rooftop dining room overlooking the Borghese, featuring some of the best views in Rome, where guests can take breakfast, or enjoy music and cocktails in the evening.

 

They don’t even charge for the view!

You can read about traveling to Rome with kids in a previous blog post.

Roman sites are impressive, but hiring a guide gives deeper understanding, and helps make navigating the crowds less stressful.

LISBON

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is offering a 4th night free. My clients always receive the Four Seasons preferred Partner amenities, which include daily breakfast and a spa credit. And if you book a suite, they’ll also pick you up in a limousine on arrival!

Plenty of room for the whole family.

A run with a view

Lisbon is a beautiful city steeped in history, but there are many kid-friendly attractions including an aquarium and safari park, or you can hire a driver for a day trip to beaches or castles.

Sometimes getting out of the city is the best way to enjoy it.

For a special treat, you can go for a spin through winding cobblestone streets with a professional photographer in a vintage Moto-sidecar. Check it out here.

For help finding your family’s perfect European vacation, contact suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.

 

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Summer Vacation Solutions

Don’t panic if you haven’t planned summer vacation yet. There are still many options available, and you can even get some pretty good deals.  I have many offers in my inbox, I just pulled out a sampling of what’s available around the globe.

Kids Free in the Galapagos

With Lindblad Expeditions’ 50th Anniversary Savings, book a Galapagos trip by July 1, 2017 and the first child travels free, the second at 50% off on select departures!  Snorkel with sea lions, hang out with giant tortoises, hike right next to iguanas and blue-footed boobies and kayak along the most idyllic bays. You’ll do, see, and learn more with the most experienced Expedition Team in the islands! 

Yes you can get this close! 
Bucket list item- check!
Fun for all ages!


And if you can’t make it this year, book any 2018 expedition before June 1, and you’ll be guaranteed the 2017 rates.

I had the pleasure of traveling to the Galapagos with Lindblad in March, check out more of my photos here.  

Cruise to the Great Land

Several lines still have space available for Alaska this summer.  Crystal Cruises is offering Kids’ Sail Free when sharing a cabin with 2 adults on most departures.  That can be combined with their Crystal Clear Choice promotion which offers a choice of savings, including a $600 per person onboard credit!  AND my clients also get an additional onboard credit courtesy of Virtuoso.

From ship to glacier in a few hours

Regent Seven Seas is offering a Book Now Bonus on all sailings, including $250 per person shipboard credit for Alaska.  And if you select a Virtuoso Voyages sailings, you also receive your choice of amenity, either a shipboard credit or an exclusive shore excursion.

Glacier Bay is just one of several locations
where you can see spectacular glaciers

Seabourn’s Extraordinary Opportunity Event runs through June 13, with special savings on select 2017 departures including:
• Three Veranda Suite Category Upgrade
• Veranda for Oceanview category Upgrade
• Onboard credits up to $1,000


Say Aloha to Hawaii

Four Seasons Resorts on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island are offering resort credits of up $200 per night for select dates (credit varies by room category booked).  The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is offering a $1000 activity credit for guestrooms, and $2000 for suites.  Stay longer than 5 nights and the credit increases, and all this can be combined with our Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities.

Maui beaches rock!

Kings Pond is fun for families who like to snorkel
at Four Seasons Hualalai

Hit the Beach in Miami

Acqualina Resort & Spa in Miami is offering a Family Escape Package through Sep 30, including

  • Daily access to the Children’s Center, home to the AcquaMarine program offering educational marine-themed programming for children ages 5-12
  • Access to the resort’s beachfront basketball, soccer lawn, foosball and ping pong tables.
The kids may never want to leave

  • Daily activities for toddlers including bike time on a no-pedal Strider Balance Bike, stretch sessions and relay races on the beach
  • A $40 spa credit for up to two adults 
  • Daily buffet breakfast for two (or four in a two-bedroom suite)
  • Complimentary Valet Parking
  • Complimentary Wifi

Parents may never want to leave, either!


Caribbean Getaways

Ritz Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach is offering a Stay Longer promotion, with 10-30% savings on Ocean View and higher rooms.  The longer you stay, the more you save.  And you receive a $50 per night resort credit, as well as Virtuoso amenities.  No passport needed to visit Puerto Rico! 

Besides these beautiful rooms, they have residences
and a 5 bedroom plantation


Shore Club Turks & Caicos lets you stay for 7 and play for 5 when booking a full size suite or penthouse. Rates include breakfast daily, free calls to the USA & Canada, Kids Club for 4-12, use bicycles, tennis court, fitness center, and non-motorized water sports, and wifi.  And of course you can enjoy their four pools: Adults Pool, Family/Resort Pool, Colonnade Pool and lap pool.

An exclusive retreat on Long Bay Beach

Nicaragua Ecolodge Package

My “go-to” Central America supplier is offering an amazing program that includes two of the most authentic and luxurious ecolodges in Nicaragua at a fantastic low price.  You first visit Jicaro Island Ecolodge, one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, located on a private island on Lake Nicaragua.  

You don’t have to rough it at an ecolodge

Then you are transferred to Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge, a Virtuoso property located right on the beach.  You can choose from a wide selection of tours in each location, including visits to volcanoes, artisan markets, and colonial towns.  Rates include 3 meals a day at Jicaro, and breakfast at Morgan’s Rock, plus other value-added amenities.

This beach!

Don’t let summer slip away without making some fabulous family memories! To get started, contact Suzette at suzette@family-treks.com.

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Spectacular Spring Break Savings!

“I don’t really care about saving money on my vacation.”  Said no one ever.

If you want to plan a spring break getaway, NOW is the time to book. I have been able to find some great early booking values, most of which are only available  because of our agency’s preferred status with a particular resort, or through a tour operator who only works with travel professionals.

Here is a recap of the savings I found for clients in the past week:

$11,000 savings on a multi-gen family vacation – Grandpa wanted to take his kids and grandkids to Florida in April, so he needed to book a combination of rooms and suites.  This was the amount saved over the rate published on the resort website after applying a Virtuoso discount and an exclusive 4th night free offer.

One Bedroom Oceanfront Suite
One of the beautiful oceanfront pools
Lucky kids!
This same family could have stayed at another resort offering a 50% discount on ALL junior suites booked in combination with a 1 BR suite. It would have totaled to >$1000 per night savings over the published rates. What a great deal for families who want a connecting room for the kids, and suites have kitchenettes as well!

This beach!
Hawaii Villa Savings – I found a Book Early offer for March on 2 and 3 bedroom Maui villas through a supplier who only works with travel advisors.  The client is saving thousands of dollars since they needed multiple villas for their party.
Space, privacy, and your own plunge pool

Views of Lanai from a practically private beach.
Haleakala – One of Maui’s spectacular natural wonders.
$1500 savings on a 1 Bedroom Suite – The same tour operator also has Book Early rates on hotel rooms and suites at many resorts.  This luxury resort is my favorite for families on Maui!
A waterslide, swim-up bar, adults only pool, huge spa,
award-winning restaurants, and a gorgeous beach.
And this view!  What more can a family ask for? Well…
…How about complimentary breakfast every day?
(A Virtuoso amenity exclusively for my clients.)
I was even able to find a great deal for a client traveling to Europe over the holidays:  a 200£ savings per room per night for New Year’s Eve. And they will get the Virtuoso amenities which include daily breakfast and a 100 USD equivalent hotel credit.

This room is worthy of a special occasion.
This place will be hopping on NYE!
To be frank, there generally there aren’t a lot of Christmas “deals” to be found.  I do have the advantage of knowing suppliers that often have rooms blocked at a below market rates.  But inventory is limited, so the early bird has the best chance to score one of those rooms.

Even if you end up paying the published rates,  remember that you still get a better value when I book you, because of our preferred agency amenities, such as daily breakfast for two, upgrade on arrival if available, and resort credits.

It’s understandable that many travelers want to wait until after the holidays to start planning trips for next year. But it’s likely the best offers will be gone by then.  Imagine how relaxing it would be to not only have your spring break travel planning out of the way, but also know you have saved yourself a lot of money! 

So give yourself the gift of a more restful holiday season by sending an email to suzette@family-treks.com, and from there I’ll do all the work!

I’ll take this image over sugarplum fairies dancing in my head any day.
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High Adrenaline Hawaii

I recently vacationed on the Big Island of Hawaii with my family which includes two teens.  We had not been there since they were very young, so this time we got to experience some more active adventures.

This island has a large variety of unique activities, so if you are looking for more to do than just lay on the beach or by the pool, it could be the perfect destination for you.  Check out some of the fun things we did:
Stargazing at Mauna Kea
While looking through telescopes is not a high energy activity, getting to the top of the volcano does take some effort.   The Visitor Information Center is at 9200 ft, and at nightfall temperatures drop into the 50’s or below.  So we packed long pants, hats, gloves, and sweatshirts along with our bathing suits.   If you have a “true” 4WD drive vehicle you can drive to the  14000 ft summit on a steep gravel road (check safety guidelines first). 
Setting up the telescopes
Here you have one of the clearest night sky views on the planet, we could easily see the Milky Way with the naked eye.  We also  saw Jupiter, Mars and Saturn through telescopes, and watched deep space images on video monitors.
 

The Milky Way seen from Mauna Kea


Zodiac Raft Trip to Kealakekua Bay
Inacessible by car, Kealakekua Bay is one of the most protected harbors on the island and has exceptionally clear water. It is also the site of the Captain Cook Monument, the only foreign-owned land in the United States.  The crew will fill you in on the whole story.  You can also book catamaran trips and kayak trips, but if you like speed and watching dolphins surf next to you, the zodiac boat is the way to go.
Chasing a fish off a volcano
Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
There is a lot to see here, and I generally recommend my clients spend a night or two at the summit. (I review the pros and cons with my clients as we design their itinerary.) 

Checking out a steam vent with a GoPro
Walk through a lava tube
We powered through a full day trip from our resort, and were still able to drive the entire length of Chain of Craters Road, have dinner, then go back to see the glow in the caldera after dark.
Kilauea by day and night
What’s exciting right now is a new lava flow which started right before our arrival.  It does require  advance planning as views are only accessible from a parking area about 45 minutes outside the park entrance, and you must hike a few miles along an emergency road.
Note: Lava conditions can change in hours, so visitors need to read the current updates on the NPS website, and talk to rangers before heading out on any hikes.
Lava arches at the end of the road

Night Snorkel With Manta Rays

This was not only the highlight of our trip, but could very well be one of the most amazing wildlife encounters we will have in our lifetime. Because of the particular tour we booked, we had at least a dozen huge manta rays (3-10 ft. wing span) swimming within inches of us.  Yes, it was scary at first, but it didn’t take long to relax, realize we were safe, and enjoy the experience.  You can see a video my son took with his GoPro here.

This isn’t a spaceship, it’s the underside of a manta ray!


And More Snorkeling!
The Big Island is known for some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii and we were not disappointed.  This is one of our favorite activities (we call ourselves “snorkel snobs”), so we chose a resort that had good snorkeling on site and several good beaches nearby, including one with black sand.  There were also lots of turtles at our resort, so it was not unusual to see them in and out of the water. 

Great snorkeling right at our resort
Lots of coral reefs and fish like this Moorish idol
Naptime!
There are many other fun adventures on the Big Island that we didn’t have time to fit in our trip:


Waterfall zip line ~ ATV or horseback riding at Waipio Valley ~ Swim with dolphins

Akaka Falls


Helicopter flightseeing  ~ Lava hike ~  Bicycling tours ~ Scuba and SNUBA


Lava fields

For more information about how to plan a fun Hawaii vacation for your family, send an email to suzette@family-treks.com.

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Private Guides – Your Best Travel Investment

On our trip to Italy this summer, I tried out several companies we use for private tours.  My expectations were exceeded, and our experience was so much better than if we had done it alone.

Vatican Museums – The crowds were so overwhelming, I could not imagine visiting without a private guide.  She was able to pull us aside as dozens of large tour groups filed by with headsets on, and then show us something interesting (even for the kids) that everyone else was missing.  

Couldn’t even see the pictures when the hall was filled with tour groups

While many people just popped their heads in the papal apartments, we were learning how different Raphael and Michelangelo were both in artistic style and personality. Before entering the Sistine Chapel, we relaxed in the beautiful courtyard as our guided explained what to look for when we got inside.

Prepping for the Sistine Chapel

Pompeii– We took a day trip to Naples from Rome, and I previously wrote about our experience hiring a private driver.  Before we headed off for our drive along the Amalfi coast, he dropped us off for a 2 hour tour of Pompeii with a guide. I had heard it was huge but had no idea until I saw it for myself.  It literally is a city, with block after block of streets that all look alike, and minimal signage. 


The streets go on and on and on…

Most guests take a self-guided tour with headsets, which can run out on the busiest days.  Our guide, who also led school field trips, expertly led us around the site so we could understand what life was like for residents. Often other visitors nearby leaned in to listen, as the stories she told were not found on any signs.

Learning about the “McDonalds” of Pompeii

Tuscany– We explored with our own car most of the time, but one day we had the luxury of a private driver.  Finally my husband and I both got to relax and enjoy the scenery rather than focus on a map and scan for road signs.  

Wouldn’t you rather enjoy this view while someone else drives?

We visited a honey farm, a cheese farm, and a winery where we had a wonderful lunch prepared by the owner.  He also took us to the hilltop village of Montalcino so we could see the fort.  He dropped us off outside the castle so we could enjoy the scenery rather than waste time in the car looking for parking.

This Brunello wine came home with us.
Say cheese!

One day we drove ourselves to Volterra, where we met another guide who grew up there.  She showed us around the ancient Etruscan village, and took us to the shop of an alabaster artisan I had met in San Francisco, when his replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa was put on display.

If this looks familiar you may have seen it in a Twilight movie,
this is the home of the Volturi
A master in alabaster

Florence– We day tripped by train from our resort, so our time was limited.  The guide we hired for a city orientation tour met us at the train station, and she took a few minutes to get a feel for how we’d like to spend our time. Since we had seen enough churches and museums, she took us to the food market, which we would have never discovered on our own. 

Before the lunch rush.

Then she led us on a tour of the city, guiding us through side streets so we avoided the worst of the crowds.  She pointed out where Leonardo di Vinci and Michelangelo once stayed, and told the back story on funny signs we saw everywhere. 

Hunting for these signs amused the kids.

We planned to visit the Accademia on our own, so she had done us the favor of reserving our tickets in advance.   She ended our tour at the will call window (which was practically impossible to find unless pointed out), made sure we got in the right line (there were 3 very long ones), and recommended a nearby cafe for lunch.

The original David

When you hire a private guide, you will save time, you will learn more, your kids will have fewer melt downs, and overall you will have a better experience.  Whenever we’ve visited a town or museum on our own, we found ourselves wandering a bit aimlessly. (And in the summer heat, efficiency is key, you want to make every step count!) 


Wish we had a guide at the Colosseum, very few signs here

If you have a special interest in art, history, food, etc., then you’ll really appreciate having a guide who is an expert in that field, rather than taking a generic city tour where the guide is reciting a memorized spiel.


Beautiful Florence, one day is not enough!

You don’t have to hire a guide everywhere you go.  But consider investing some of your travel dollars in locations where a private guide will make the difference between a good vacation, and a great vacation.

Water taxi to the Venice airport, another worthwhile splurge
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