Wanderlust: Great Travel Destinations For Kids


This summer I was seriously bit by the travel bug! From Guadalajara and Los Cabos to quick getaways to our beach house on Lake Michigan, the past few months have been nothing less than a whirlwind. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve always loved to travel, but this year I was able to rediscover my passion for it.
But traveling with kids is no easy feat – it can be expensive and quite frankly, exhausting. The key is to find destinations that are enjoyable for the whole family. Since so many of you have been asking me for advice on this topic lately, I thought I’d share my tips and finds with you on the blog! Whether you’re booking an end of summer family vacation or planning a holiday getaway, I’ve got ya covered!

Janet Mandell of Fashionaholic wearing Zara with a Delsey Suitcase
Janet Mandell of Fashionaholic - Travel Destinations for kids

Best Travel Destinations For Kids

Turks & Caicos

Resort(s): Beaches Turks & Caicos + The Shore Club 
We took the kids to the Turks & Caicos Beaches Resort a few years ago and they have been begging us to go back ever since! The all-inclusive is honestly ideal for the entire family. I feel like all-inclusive resorts sometimes get a bad rap, but I swear this one is so luxurious. Plus, Beaches is currently offering a special (up to 65% off!) at all three of their Turks & Caicos locations! So after 3 years of begging, we’re heading back for four  days in October.
This time around, we’ll be splitting our time between Beaches and The Shore Club Turks & Caicos! This will be our first time staying at The Shore Club and we are SO excited. The resort grounds are absolutely heavenly. An indulgent spa, four pools, three restaurants, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking views elevate this resort beyond paradise. The Shore Club – while it’s only been open for a year – has gained some serious traction. Its a smaller resort with the finest amenities and first class all the way. TSC may be best for children a little bit older!
Pro Traveler Tip: If you’re planning in advance, apply for a airline affiliated credit card. Each time you spend, you earn points that can be used for miles! My favorites? Citi Bank AAdvantage Airlines Miles Credit Card! You can save big $$$ by using the miles you earned from your Citibank AA. You can save on 2 coach flights if you plan ahead of time. This is how I save on 2 full fares every time we travel!

Courtesy of The Shore Club TC
Photo courtesy of The Shore Club Turks & Caicos

Dorado, Puerto Rico

Resort(s): Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve 
Once a plantation, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is now one of the most exclusive Caribbean luxury resorts in Puerto Rico. This resort is considered to be by far the best in the Ritz-Carlton collection – all of which are known to be family-friendly AND romantic. This destination is remote and luxurious, while also immersing guests into the environment. It is set on Dorado Beach, overlooking the water, surrounded by palm trees and greenery. This property is full of adventure and relaxation. With a state of the art spa and aquatic playground at theWatermill for the kids.
We just booked this resort for our first four nights in Puerto Rico and I seriously can’t wait to share my experience with you all.
Pro Traveler Tip: We find ways to save on every vacation we take. When I know we are planning a vacation, I plan which credit card to use and charge all my bills to earn miles and points. When you book in advance, the air is much cheaper. We booked our Puerto Rico flights in advance by 5 months….and you can fly first class for almost the same price as coach. Best time to book is on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Courtesy of Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Photo courtesy of Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Puerto Rico

Resort: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
For the second half of our trip, we will be staying at the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort! This property is absolutely stunning. Not only is it unbelievably luxurious, but there is also SO much to do! The service is impeccable and the activities are endless: aquatic center, spa, junior golf course, tennis center, the beach, a babysitting service, children’s playground, a kids club, and the list goes on and on.
Its about 1 hour away from the Ritz-Carlton property at Dorado Beach, but it will definitely save you some cash! Unbelievably 5-star luxury resort and you can save cash?! HOW?!
Pro Traveler Tip: Let me fill you in a little secret: I signed up for the American Express Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) credit card about 6 months ago. It’s great if you are a frequent traveler and flyer! Since signing up, I have earned enough points to receive three nights for FREE in a 1300 sq. ft suite! Talk about AMAZING. Since we travel with both our children, its nice to have that privacy and have them sleep in the separate area.

Courtesy of St. Regis Bahia Beach Purerto Rico
Photo courtesy of St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico

Aspen, Colorado

Resort(s): Aspen Snowmass Village + The Westin Snowmass Resort
Sometimes it’s nice to escape the sun and enjoy the cool mountain air. There are some great ski resorts in Aspen, especially Aspen Snowmass Village! This resort is great for younger ones learning to get on the skis for the first time. Its on a smaller scale then the other ski resorts and cities. I found it much easier to learn how to ski as a first timer myself 2 years ago!
Westin Snow Mass Village is another great skin in and out resort. However its not as affordable, so I would use points or another great way is to book all your travel and hotel stay through Expedia.com or hotels.com!
Pro Traveler Tip: Expedia and Hotels.com have a frequent user program where you stay X amount of days and the next 2 or 3 days is free depending on which hotel you stay on your next visit!

Courtesy of Westin Snowmass Resort
Photo courtesy of Westin Snowmass Resort

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