CELEBRATION VACATIONS FROM FAMILY-FRIENDLY VACATIONS

(featured Oct. 10, 2008 on Good Morning Arizona, News Channel 3)

HAWAII - The Wyland Waikiki, a 4-star luxury boutique hotel in center of Waikiki is offering every 3rd night free and other specials. Hawaii's first artist-themed hotel showcases the creative talents of Robert Wyland, whose famous whale & dolphin pictures, sculptures, and photographs adorn the property. Lounge by the pool, and rejuvenate at the spa. Book by Nov. 29 and valid for travel through Dec. 21, 2008.  7-night land packages start at $519 per person with GoGo Vacations (based on double occupancy on a hypothetical date arrival for Oct. 21), and includes fresh-flower lei greeting, round-trip transfers from airport to hotel, every 3rd night free, breakfast for two daily, guaranteed double upgrade to a 1-bedroom suite, Aloha breakfast briefing morning after arrival, Food n' Fun dining discount card, one-day trolley pass and hotel taxes. There are additonal discounts on activities available such as the 2-for-1 sightseeing on the Star Sunset Dinner & Show Cruise.  Airfare not included in rate above, but fares are as low as $395 per person on US Airways non-stop to Honolulu from Phoenix (checked dates of Oct. 21-28, 2008).

FLORIDA (other than Disney) - Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa - Located in Fort Myers on Florida's Gulf Coast, this luxurious, AAA 4-Diamond property is offering an incredible $109 special on its Deluxe Waterview Rooms through November, saving you 40% OFF. The best part: These rates are valid 7 days a week including Thanksgiving. The resort's 1-bedroom suites are only $159 per night (regularly $229). This resort was named one of the Top 10 Spa Resorts in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler , features 6 restaurants, 6 pools, 5 tennis courts and a 40,000-square-foot spa; and has an on-site marina with brunch and dinner cruises departing on the resort's very own yacht. Blackout Dates: Oct. 16-18; Nov. 5-10. Note: There is an additional $15 daily resort fee. Book by Oct. 18.

EUROPE - The 5-star Hilton Molino Stucky in Venice, Italy is offering rooms starting at just $183 (€149) per night! Comparable hotels are nearly twice as much. Winter is a great time to experience the narrow streets and canals of Venice without the crowds of summer. The Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is located on Giudecca Island and is the only hotel in the area with a rooftop pool. The Hilton and its 5 restaurants and bars overlook the whole of Venice and its magnificent waterways and attractions. This price is available for the hotel’s advance-purchase rooms for stays through Feb. 23 and must be booked 21 days before your stay. This offer also coincides with Venice's Carnival (Feb. 13-24).  If you wish to add breakfast to your stay, advance-purchase Bed & Breakfast rates are $232 (€189) per night. These also require a 21-day advance booking; be sure to quote PR20AB.  Blackout dates: November 5-6, 20, 24-25; December 11-13

CARIBBEAN & BAHAMAS- The Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas--an extraordinary mega resort--is offering a super fall special , with four-day/3-night getaways starting at just $229 per adult in the Beach Tower (plus taxes and gratuties).  Kids under 12 stay free, and kids 6 and under eat free when everybody purchases an optional dining plan.  At Atlantis, you can swim with dolphins at the new Dolphin Cay, wander among 50,000 exotic sea creatures, plunge down 7-story water slides, and play at the Caribbean's largest casino.  This offer is good for Mon & Tues arrivals through October 29, 2008, with slightly higher rates available through December 18, 2008.

CRUISING - Cruise from $60 per person for a family of four! Cruising still represents one of the best vacation values out there and numerous specials exist this fall. A special cruise-only rate as low as $421.44 per person for a family of four sharing an interior cabin is currently available on the November 30 sailing on a 7-night Mexican Riviera Cruise from Los Angeles on Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas including port charges, taxes and fuel supplements. That's only $60 per night for accommodations, all onboard snacks & meals, great entertainment and a free kid's club services. What a deal!

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FUN FALL GETAWAYS FROM FAMILY-FRIENDLY VACATIONS

(featured Sep. 22, 2008 on Good Morning Arizona, News Channel 3)

Fall is a great time to travel--prices are low, the crowds have gone home, and the weather is mild. Yes, there is always the possibility of a hurricane, but you can protect yourself against that through hurricane protection. Consider the savings on these packages below and go now!

HAWAII - 11 night Cruise on the Celebrity Millennium from $849 for an inside cabin (Cat. Z) on an Oct. 6-17, 2008 sailing, including tax and fuel supplements. This cruise departs from Ensenada, Mexico (just a short drive or flight from San Diego), then has 5 days at sea before making stops in Maui (Lahaina), Kauai (Nawiliwili), Big Island (Kona), and Oahu (Honolulu). Hawaii has always possessed a mystique and allure that's hard to resist. From emerald green rainforests and thunderous volcanoes to palm-fringed beaches and indescribable sunsets, Celebrity's Hawaii promises something for everyone. Join Celebrity's Hawaii Cruises and experience a land that is open and welcoming, yet marbled with mystery. Air to Ensenada and back from Honolulu on these dates is running from $485 per person.

CARIBBEAN - Beaches Resorts (3 in Jamaica and 1 in Turks & Caicos)
This chain of kid-friendly all-inclusive resorts is heaven for the younger set, thanks to its partnership with Sesame Street, a super daycamp, and terrific waterplay areas. From September 1 to November 4, the Wonderfall season delivers a line-up of special events, including live stage shows with Elmo, Gordon, and Abby Cadabby. Prices during this period are up to 50% less than in peak periods, plus families can get one free night when they stay five or six nights, or two free nights when they stay seven nights.

DISNEY - Disney’s Magic Your Way Packages
This fall, Walt Disney World Resort is offering special rates from as low as $49 pp with its Magic Your Way package. Through Dec. 23, 2008, you can take advantage of a 5-night package at select Disney Value Resort hotels and enjoy such events as the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, The Osbourne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Mickey’s Jingle Jungle at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Accommodations and tickets based on two adults, one junior (ages 10-17) and one child (ages 3-9).

Also, for the first time in Disney history, guests celebrating a birthday will get in FREE at a Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme park in 2009 on their birthday--(a 1-day, 1-park admission ticket).  Take advantage of this great offer, and start planning your family's celebration vacation today.

CRUISES - New Nickelodeon Cruises on Royal Caribbean
Based on the success of the first-ever sold out Nickelodeon Family Cruise with Royal Caribbean, the two companies are teaming up to create two brand-new cruise adventures setting sail in summer 2009. The west coast itinerary, aboard Mariner of the Seas, will sail from Los Angeles, CA, on July 26, 2009 and will travel through the Mexican Riviera (exact locations to be determined). The east coast itinerary, aboard Freedom of the Sea?the largest ship in cruise industry?will depart from Port Canaveral, FL, on Aug. 9, 2009 and will sail to St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Coco Cay, Bahamas. On board, Nickelodeon will provide interactive game shows, meet-and-greets and performances by Nickelodeon stars, special screenings and premieres of new Nick shows and movies, and plenty of Nickelodeon’s signature slime. Pricing and packages available in mid-October.

MEXICO - The all-inclusive RIU Santa Fe Resort is offering a special through October 30 where kids stay FREE. A family of four (two adults & two children ages 2-12) can stay in a garden view room for only $724 including round-trip ground transfers and taxes. A playful and relaxed atmosphere helps attract families to this beachfront 3 1/2 star resort on the southern Baja California peninsula. Have a spa treatment while the kids are at the mini-club. Airfares fluctuate, but start at about $507 per person round-trip from Phoenix.

SAN DIEGO - Need a near-cation instead? The Catamaran Resort is offering a 5th night free and kids under 18 stay free. For 5 nights during October from Thursday to Tuesday, the rate comes to $694 for two adults including tax. Play and party at this South Pacific-themes hotel on Mission Bay. Rent jet skis, enjoy gourmet alfresco dining, and treat yourself to a massage at the full service spa and health club. The kids always love going to SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, Legoland, or the beach.

 

 

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10 ADVENTURE TRAVEL TRENDS

(featured April 14, 2008 on Good Morning Arizona, News Channel 3)

Please call Family-Friendly Vacations at 800-664-8918 for complete information on booking your stay at one of the properties featured below.

 

ALL-GIRLS or ALL-GUYS GETAWAYS :  More men & women are leaving their spouses or significant others at home and heading off to vacation with their same-sex friends or family members.

Rancho de Los Caballeros in Wickenburg, AZ offers several great packages for this type of vacation including:

•  “ Guys, Guns & Golf ” from $789 per person (2-nights accommodations, 2 rounds of golf, 1 round of trap or skeet shooting, 1 spa treatment, 3 gourmet meals per day, and a cowboy cookout).

•  “ Giddy Up Gals Getaway ” from $598 per person (2-nights accommodations, horse and tack education, unlimited trail rides, an afternoon of team penning, 3 gourmet meals per day, a cowgirl cookout, and a nature hike or ride with the resident naturalist).

 

ACTION-PACKED VACATIONS :  Some people call action-packed vacations The Bucket List for the movie starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, two terminally ill patients who want to complete a list of things to do before they kick the bucket.

Ultimate 5 Lifetime Adventures packs 5 of what it calls the world's greatest adventures into 1 week: a military-developed Ropes Challenge Course, skydiving, Indy car racing, rappelling and piloting a primary combat trainer aircraft--priced from $8,900 per person. It's only $4,900 per person for a mini-course of 3 of these items.

 

FAMILY ADVENTURE VACATIONS :  Some families (including multigenerational) are forgoing theme parks and all-inclusive resorts for "more genuine nature-based, cultural, and education and learning excursions. This is attributed in part to baby boomers who have the means to travel "coupled with a strong interest in bonding more deeply with families."

Wildland Adventures cater to young travelers and their families by planning fun activities like camel rides, caving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, swimming in pools or boogie boarding at the beach, and traveling to wildlife or archaeological sites with easy trails and stimulating learning opportunities. Prices start at $1,965 per person for an 8-night Costa Rica Family Vacation.

 

AFRICAN TRAVEL :  While the Kenya Tourist Board says the sporadic and isolated violence has calmed and tourists were never in danger (the situation was internal and occurred in places where tourists generally don't go), there has been a downturn in tourism in Kenya and some spillover to other countries in East Africa.

Intrepid Travel offers worldwide trips that share a common philosophy of getting out there and experiencing the real world. Africa destinations include South Africa , Namibia , Botswana , Mozambique , Madagascar , Zimbabwe , Zambia , Malawi , Tanzania , Uganda , Kenya , and Ethiopia in Southeastern Africa . They are currently offering a “Buy One, Get the 2 nd at 50% off” special on African trips if booked by April 30. Trips start at $870 per person for a 5-night African Insight Tour to South Africa , Zambia and Botswana .

 

SOFT ADVENTURE VACATIONS :  An increasing number of people are choosing a vacation that centers around a theme, such as a culinary tour in Asia or wine vacation in Israel . Yoga has also seeped into the mix.

Best of Both Women's Adventures has yoga on all of its trips, and may also include wine tasting, bird watching, mountain biking, rafting, glacier trekking, horseback riding, sea kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, aerial canopy tour and surfing on others. Prices start at $1,600 per person for the 4-night Puerto Rico Surf and Yoga Trip.

 

Other top trends include:

•  Roots Vacations (IE Traveling to places where your ancestors lived)

•  Volunteer Vacations (IE Combining volunteerism with vacation)

•  Expeditionary Travel (IE Conservation-minded tours that support science)

•  Charity Travel (IE Trips that raise awareness and funds)

•  Expedition Cruising (IE cruising to Antarctica , Galapagos & Alaska)

 

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Kid-Friendly Spa Getaways

(featured January 29, 2008 on Good Morning Arizona, News Channel 3)

Spas are not just for adults any more! A new trend has many spas adding services and specials just for the younger set so they can be pampered too.

So, what makes a destination spa family friendly? For starters, you should ask for a list of the facilities that they offer, and then check out for yourself how many are for children. Just because a spa promotes itself as family friendly, that doesn’t make it so. Children won’t be happy going to the same place to do the same stuff every day—they want a varied routine. A family friendly spa understands this, and will provide a variety of different areas for the children to meet in.

Another point to consider when asking the question, what makes a destination spa family friendly is how many different types of activities the spa offers. In order for the family spa experience to be successful, everyone will have to have their needs fulfilled—including the children. The best way to accomplish this is to make certain that the spa provides adequate and interesting activities and services for the children.

Finally, when considering what makes a destination spa family friendly you should ask to see the backgrounds of the child care workers, and ask for references. Nothing would make for a more stressful vacation (the opposite of the goal!) than constantly having to worry that your children are in good hands. A truly family friendly destination spa will understand this, and do everything they can to make you feel comfortable. Talk to other people who have left their children in care of the spa’s employees, and then talk to the child care people yourself to put yourself at ease.

If you prepare and make sure that the destination spa you are considering is family friendly, you will truly have a vacation experience that the entire family will remember fondly.

1) The Broadmoor is a luxurious retreat conveniently located just minutes from downtown Colorado Springs. It has 700 rooms and suites, 185,000 square feet of flexible event space, 15 restaurants, cafés and lounges, three golf courses, a tennis club, and world-class spa.

The Spa at The Broadmoor is consistently rated one of the premier resort spas in the country, offering the finest in spa services as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and a relaxation room. The Spa Kid's Collection allows parents to introduce their children to the importance of nurturing one's mind, body and spirit. They blend pampering with learning and fun, starting your child on his or her journey to lifelong health and wellness.

Services for kids include:
Extreme Express Massage - This “extreme” massage is for your extremities! Your head, neck, arms, hands, legs and feet work hard to support you while you pile on extreme requirements – from soccer and Wii to cheerleading or just hanging out. For ages 15 and under (30 minutes / $80)

Junior Ice Cream Manicure and Pedicure - Have your mani/pedi and your milkshake too with this over the top treatment that comes with a complimentary chocolate, vanilla or strawberry milkshake! Your choice of chocolate, vanilla or strawberry soak and lotion complimented by a strawberry body sherbet foot exfoliate and marshmallow foot mask. Choice of polish and take home photo of you in the salon are included. Sip, spoon or gulp down your choice of chocolate, vanilla or strawberry milkshake. For ages 11 and under ($75)

Princess Hair Updo - Perfect for flower girls and attendants or someone who just wants to be a princess for the day. An Updo creation on dry hair for an unforgettable style for a very special occasion. For ages 11 and under ($60)

Tween and Teen’s Facial and Lesson - While receiving a full Somme Vitamin Facial our estheticians also educate tweens/teens on proper at-home care. For ages 12 & up ($130)

Tween and Teen’s Make-up Lesson - This makeup applied and explained by our experts is highly pigmented, has full light reflective coverage, sun protection and is long-lasting and water-resistant. This makeover will not only make you look great, but is good for your skin, especially fragile tween and teen faces. Service price includes a credit towards purchase of mineral makeup to take home. For ages 12 and up ($60)

Junior Hair Cut and Style - Our talented and friendly hair stylists have a way with even the wiggliest young people for this shampoo, cut and quick blow dry.for ages 11 and under ($40)

2) The Topnotch Resort and Spa is a premier New England destination resort and spa located on a 120-acre wooded estate in beautiful Stowe, Vermont. They offer special spa treatments just for teens 16 and over. Guests under the age of 16 are also welcome in the indoor and outdoor family pool areas and hair salon, and must be accompanied by an adult.

Consistently acclaimed as one of the Top 10 spas in the US, Topnotch Spa has been exquisitely renovated and expanded to 35,000 square feet. The 30 treatment rooms are home to more than 120 rejuvenating and exotic treatments and services.

Teen Services include:
Total Teen Facial - involves deep cleansing, toning, steam, mask, extractions and a facial massage. Our staff will also educate and discuss home care routines which will assist in clearer, healthier skin. (50 minutes $120)

Super Sugar Scrub - An exfoliation treatment for the body, this treatment made from pure maple sugar will mildly exfoliate, hydrate and soften the skin. Leaves the skin purely cleansed and extremely soft. You will also receive our cornmeal soap and loofah mitt to use at home. (25 minutes $70 / $75)

Teen Massage - A full body massage which focuses on the back, shoulders and legs using a light citrus aromatherapy oil. This massage will relax and rejuvenate and is perfect for the new spa goer. (25 minutes $70 / $75)

Teen Tune-Up - A one-on-one session with a certified personal trainer. This session will focus on strength training, flexibility and cardiovascular conditioning. You will also receive a take home program to follow. (50 minutes $75)

3) The Lansdowne Resort is a AAA Four Diamond award-winning property in Lansdowne--Virginia's rolling Hunt Country within 20 minutes from the Capital Beltway. The resort features 305 sumptuously appointed guest rooms and suites boasting new enhancements as part of a $55 million resort renovation.

Spa Minérale, Lansdowne Resort’s new 12,000-square-foot destination spa, welcomes guests to a lavish oasis where soothing massages, pampering salon services and invigorating skin treatments leave you feeling completely renewed. To celebrate the next generation of spa-goers, Spa Minérale has designed a program so young spa-goers can learn the techniques that will set the foundation for a lifetime of beauty and healthy skin. Young spa-goers are guests age 13-17. * Young spa-goers who receive closed door treatments must have a parent or adult in the room for the duration of the service.

Young Spa Services include:
YS Mini Massage - Concentrating on the head, neck, arms and shoulders, this is a perfect introduction to massage. This will help the active young spa-goer unwind and relax. (25 minutes $65)

YS Total Facial - Young skin can be so unpredictable. This facial is designed to introduce our young spa-goers to healthy skin care. Enjoy this cleansing and relaxing facial and leave with a skincare routine for home. (50 minutes $105)

YS Ultimate Massage - Concentrating on the full body, this massage will be personalized for you. Designed to relax stressed muscles and provide relief for any muscle soreness from sports activities. (50 minutes $105)

YS Vitamin C Facial - Invigorate your skin with the rejuvenating powers of vitamin C while enjoying a relaxing facial massage. (25 minutes $65)

YS Mini Manicure - Introduce your young spa-goer to proper cuticle care and nail shaping, then finish it off with the latest hot colors and polish. (30 minutes $40)

YS Ultimate Manicure - Enjoy all the mini manicure has to offer, plus warm paraffin, hand and forearm massage (45 minutes $65)

YS Mini Pedicure - Get those active feet to soak in our custom whirlpool footbath. Nails are cut and shaped, cuticles are softened and perfected, and feet are exfoliated and massaged. All finished off with the latest hot colors and polish. (30 minutes $65)

YS Ultimate Pedicure - Enjoy all the mini pedicure has to offer plus your lower legs and feet are treated to a light massage and then dipped in warm paraffin. (50 minutes $90)

4) Arizona Grand Resort (formerly the Pointe Resort at South Mountain) is the an AAA Four-Diamond all-suite hotel located just six miles from Sky Harbor International Airport. It's a world beyond any Phoenix resort you might imagine at the doorstep of 17,000 acres of South Mountain Preserve.

Enjoy the Arizona water park voted in the Top 10 by the Travel Channel. One of the nation's largest resort water parks, it features an eight-story high tower with three thrilling water slides, gigantic wave pool, relaxing river tubing, Wild Cat Springs for kids, and a 25-person hot tub.

A visit to the Arizona Grand Spa is sure to rejuvenate your mind and body, whether it is a relaxing massage, cleansing body treatment, hydrating facial or one of many salon services. A collection of spa services are designed to pamper your little ones.

Just for Kids Spa Services:
Pretty Princess Package - Treat your little princess to the royal treatment with our Pretty Princess manicure and pedicure featuring glitter polish or gemstones, plus a glamorous hairstyle session. She'll also take home her very own jewel-toned tiara. (Ages 6 to 11 / 90 minutes / $80)

Pedicure Party - Round up your pals for your very own pedicure party at Arizona Grand Spa. This special party is designed for three or more people (teens or adults) and includes: finger foods, magazines, music, pedicures and fashion accessories (teens). For ages 7+ Please note: The Pedicure Party requires a 48 hour notice to set up. ($80)

Teen Massage - Deep tissue massage including stretching that is designed to target the muscle groups associated with their sport or activity of choice. (Ages 13 to 18 / 45 minutes / $100)

Teen Skin Care Session - Education is a central component of our Teen Skin Care Session. This full skin consultation will teach your teen about their skin type and how to care for their skin as well as tips on nutrition for good skin health. Session also includes standard cleansing and an exfoliating facial. (Ages 12 to 17 / 50 minutes / $100)

Teen Back Scrub - Acne is by far the most common skin complaint among teenagers, affecting many areas of the body including face, neck and back. Our Teen Back Scrub includes skin consultation, exfoliation, cleansing, extractions and mask application. The session also includes education on keeping skin clean and healthy as well as proper nutrition. (Ages 13 to 18 / 50 minutes / $115)

Teen Citrus Lavender Salt Scrub - Hydrates the skin while salts and enzymatic papain gently exfoliate dry, dead surface cells leaving skin smooth, fresh and hydrated. (50 minutes / $125)

Teen Intro - includes a choice of two: 20 minute facial, 20 minute massage, a standard manicure or pedicure or wax (bikini, lip or brow). ($125)

Teen Tagalong Session - Combination package consisting of a 45-minute massage, 50 minute skincare treatment, mani/pedi, and a light lunch ($239)

5) Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn in Florida is set on 24 fabulous acres, amid the non-stop excitement of Orlando, Florida only a mile from Walt Disney World Resort.

The resort features 777 roomy and comfy suites, two interactive pool complexes (with multiple slides, climbing nets, water jets, and a 400-gallon dump tank), netted basketball court (with multiple-height hoops for kids of all ages), mini golf course (challenging you with nine holes and lots of sand traps and obstacles), shaded kids play area (offering wet ‘n’ dry attractions like slides and squirt games), and the Arcade (a 3,000-square-foot game room, with rentals for in-suite use).

The Kids’ Spa pampers your children with unique services just for them. It is going through re-construction right now, but should be back open for summer, 2008.

Kids' Spa Services:
Temporary Tattoos - Hypo-allergenic. $6-16.

Hair Wraps - $1.50 per inch plus beads. $20-30 average depending on hair length. They use 100% cotton cloth, and braids last an average of five days to two weeks. Beads are hand-crafted. Half-crown - $50. Extensions - $65+. Full cornrows - $100+. Full-head box braids - $200+.

Manicures - $20+

Pedicures - $30+

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Unique Worldwide Family Vacations

(featured October 2, 2007 on Good Morning Arizona, News Channel 3)

 

Families are becoming more adventurous and exploring more of the world together than ever before. Whether it's just with Mom and/or Dad wanting to share some family time, or a multi-generational trip with Grandma and Grandpa, a family trip to another part of the world can be a life-changing experience for kids and teens.

 

Many companies now offer exotic trips that are specifically geared for families. We feature some of the best here – tour prices given below are based land-only for a family of four with two children under age 12 (under age 11 for Disney and Tauck).

 

•  Thomson Family Adventures offers guaranteed departures for small family groups traveling together over school breaks to 10 destinations including Belize , China , Costa Rica , Ecuador , Egypt , Morocco , Panama , Peru , Portugal , Tanzania and Turkey . Three itineraries to Costa Rica are offered for ages 6 & up including a “Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Beaches” 7-night trip and a “Multi-Sport Adventure” 8-night trip. Trips are all-inclusive (except gratuities, alcohol/soft drinks, and incidentals) and start at about $10,160 land-only for a 7-night Costa Rica trip.

 

•  Intrepid Travel offers “real life experiences” for families to 19 destinations including New Zealand, Malaysia, Morocco, Turkey, Thailand, India, China, Vietnam, Indochina, Borneo, Europe (Spain, Italy, Central Europe), East Africa, Nepal, Egypt, and Tanzania. The least expensive family adventure trip offered is an 8-night trip to Morocco which starts at about $3,750 , ranging up to a 14-night East Africa Family Safari which starts at about $8,040 . Intrepid is offering a 25% discount for children right now if booked by Dec. 7, 2007. Trips include accommodations, guides, admissions/attractions, and some meals.

 

•  Adventures by Disney offers 18 exciting destinations for families including Costa Rica , Ireland , England & France , Mid-Atlantic USA, Italy , Southwestern & Western USA, Austria & Czech Republic , Australia , China , Germany , Provence & Paris, and Spain . Trip prices include accommodations, guides, activities, some meals, gratuities and travel insurance. The least expensive trip is the 7-night Spirit of America Adventure to Washington DC , Virginia and Williamsburg starting at $7,596 , up to the 12-night China trip starting at $18,996 . Early booking rates may be available at a lower cost.

 

•  Tauck Bridges offers 10 unique, luxury itineraries for families including Alaska , Galapagos , Costa Rica , Tanzania , Australia , London & Paris, Italy, and the Southwestern & Western USA. Trip prices include accommodations, most meals, gratuities, guides, sightseeing, and tax. The least expensive tour offered is the 7-night Red Rocks & Painted Canyons for $8,440 (2007 rate), up to the 10-night Tanzania trip for $22,760 (2007 rate). Pricing for 2008 tours will be out by mid-October.

 

•  Globus Family Vacations offers 9 family destination trips to Europe, Costa Rica , Hawaii , the Mid-Atlantic USA, Southwestern and Western USA.  Trips include accommodations, some meals, sightseeing, guides and tax.  The least expensive trip offered is the 6-night Irish Jaunt for $3,378 (2007 rate), up to the 10-night Colosseum to Big Ben" trip in Europe for $8,396 (2007 rate).  Pricing for 2008 rates will be out by mid-October.  Young travelers can currently save up to 50 percent when sharing accommodations on select 2007 Globus Family Vacations.

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GIRLFRIEND'S "BIG CITY" GETAWAYS

(featured July 31, 2007 on Good Morning Arizona, News Channel 3)

1) San Francisco - Galleria Park Hotel Girlfriend's Shopping Extravaganza Package

Priced from $146 per room, per night (plus tax)

Shopper's beware! You won't be able to resist the shopping located right outside the front door of the Galleria Park Hotel in San Francisco. Crocker Galleria Shopping Center is their next door neighbor, and counts Polo Ralph Lauren and Gianni Versace as anchor stores. Union Square, with its world-renowned department stores, is a mere 2 block stroll, and within those 2 blocks are Gap, Loehmann's, Loehmann's Shoes, H&M, Ann Taylor, the flagship Banana Republic store, and many more. They are the premier address for ultimate shopping!

Package Includes:
Discount coupons to local department stores
Complimentary parking
Complimentary evening wine reception.
Offer subject to availability. Offer must be mentioned at time of reservation; groups, corporate or negotiated rates do not apply; not valid with other offers or previously booked reservations; subject to availability at time of reservation; black out dates may apply; rate is based on double occupancy and does not include occupancy tax.



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2) Miami - Sonesta Hotel & Suites Coconut Grove - "Just Us Girls" Package

Just Us Girls Package starting at $239 per night plus tax.  A perfect way to reconnect, unwind and enjoy being a girl...

Package Includes:

-Accommodations
-Daily Full American Breakfast for 2
-Afternoon Dessert and Champagne for 2 in their Panorama Restaurant & Lounge or at the Pool Bar
-Complimentary transportation to The Village of Merrick Park and "Premier Passport" with savings and offers for an splendid day of shopping and dining enjoyment.
-Rates do not include taxes. Subject to availability. Children under 17 stay free with an adult. Not available for groups or during special events.

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3) New York - Omni Berkshire Place - Get Your Glam On Package

Pricing starting at $354 per night

Get Your Glam On Availability:
5/01/07 - 12/30/07



Plan a getaway to New York with your girlfriends! Experience our luxurious accommodations with nightly turndown service and receive a sensation bar tailored to your getaway--including a "chick flick" DVD, a "girlfriends tarot card kit," a bottle of wine with chocolate-covered strawberries and lip masque and gloss.

Promotion Details:

-Deluxe room accommodations
-Nightly turndown service
-Sensation bar including:
"Chick flick" DVD
"Girlfriends tarot card kit"
Bottle of wine and chocolate-covered strawberries
Lip masque and gloss


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4) Chicago - Hotel Orrington - Girlfriend Getaway Package

Priced from $279 per room, per night

Chauffeurs, Champagne and Shopping. Hotel Orrington has a special package just for you and the girls. Enjoy champagne and strawberries in a chauffeured Towncar to Old Orchard for some shopping. Dine in style with a decadent $75 food-and-beverage credit good at The Globe Cafe & Bar, Narra Restaurant with famed Chicago Chef Jacky Pluton or the Indigo Lounge. Spend the night in the lap of luxury, enjoy a day out shopping with the girls and a stylish night with dinner and drinks.

-Offer available through: 12/31/2007
-Available on Sun Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat
-Terms and conditions:  subject to availability


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5) Quebec City, Canada - Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac - Centennial Package

Le Chateau Frontenac is one of the most historical hotels in Quebec City, sitting atop a hill above the city with great views.
Centennial Package

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts marks 100 years of grandeur! To help celebrate, Fairmont Hotels around the world will offer a Centennial Package unique to the destination.

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac emblazons heritage at every corner with its European charm, cobblestone streets and a little je ne sais quoi! The castle is prized as being both the finest place to stay for proximity of all the sights and a must-see destination of its own in Quebec City, celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2008.

Package Includes:

Two-nights in a deluxe riverview room
A welcome amenity (Château Frontenac historic book and a bottle of local Ice Cider)
Daily buffet breakfast for two at Cafe de la Terrasse restaurant
A centennial souvenir photo taken of you by a professional photographed, framed and ready for you to take back home
In the winter - a wine pairing dinner for two at Le Champlain restaurant, followed by a caleche ride through Old Quebec
In the summer, a dinner for two on the Plains of Abraham, where you will be dropped off by a private caleche.

Availability:
The Centennial Package is available now through December 22, 2007.

Rates:
The two-night package is $1,907 CAD, based on double occupancy. Taxes excluded, gratuities included.

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Guys Getaways - The Mancation!

(featured on Good Morning Arizona in June, 2007)

1) Speed Meets Spa - Two great packages for a special experience

Come to the Wine Country for an incredible "Monaco in Sonoma" Package -- speed and spa, only from The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa and Jim Russell Racing Schools. What could possibly follow the exhilaration of a day spent speeding around a racetrack in a formula racecar? How about a few days of comfort and luxury at one of the Wine Country's finest destinations? The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa has partnered with the Jim Russell Racing School to offer this special "Monaco in Sonoma" package--three days of racing school, each followed by an elegant evening in one of our luxurious guestrooms. We'll even include treatments in our world-renowned Spa to soothe your aching muscles.

"Monaco in Sonoma" Package Rate:
*Through December 31, 2007: from $4,995

-3-day Techniques of Racing Course
-3-night stay at The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
-Two 50-Minute Spa treatments or two rounds of golf at the Sonoma Golf Club
-One dinner for two
-Wine tasting for two at Gloria Ferrer
-One bottle of Gloria Ferrer sparkling wine on arrival

Please ask about the option of adding a suite upgrade and luxury car rental

Sunday through Thursday occupancy and based on availability. This offer cannot be combined with any other Special or discount.


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2) Plan a Beer-Drinking Tour at MicroBreweries in Portland, Ore.

There are more breweries in Oregon's Portland than in Munich, and gentlemen, someone has to drink all that beer. Take a taste tour and find your favorites.

1) Go to the Widmer Brewery. It's been around for over 15 years and is the brewery that introduced seasonal beers to the United States.
2) Stop in at BridgePort, Oregon's oldest craft brewery. There are two pub locations in Portland, one in Northwest and one in Southeast, to cover you no matter what side of the Willamette you find yourself on.
3) Take your pick from one of the many McMenamins locations sprinkled all over town and the outlying areas. This is an institution in Portland. Buildings run the gamut from a renovated hotel to old, restored movie theaters where you can grab a beer and a slice of pizza and watch a movie.
4) Check out the renovated warehouse known as the Lucky Lab. It's a smoke-free, laid-back pub in the heart of Southeast Portland. Most menu items come in under five bucks, and on Mondays, 20-ounce pints are just over two bucks.
5) Head over to Portland Brewing, home of McTarnahan's Amber Ale. Every year Portland Brewing has a charity keg-tossing contest, and the throwers have to wear kilts.
6) Graze the selection at Belmont Station if you can't decide on a brewery or a beer. This is a terrific store that offers most local labels and flavors in bottle for sale.

Room rates at McMenamin's Edgefield location in Portland start as low as $50 per night for a private room (single occupancy), or $80 for a double-queen room.
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3) Where the Pros Play: Pinehurst, N.C.

Pinehurst Resort has hosted more pro championships than any course in the country. It offered mancations before we knew to call them that. Still, imagine the glory if you could par a hole that Tiger Woods once bogied. By day's end you'd be the legend of the spa.

Putter Boy Package:  The Putter Boy is for golf purists who value quantity and quality in equal measure. Add more value when you book midweek in Spring and Fall!

Package includes:
Unlimited golf daily on any of 8 golf courses (upgrade to No. 2 for $150) with cart, one sleeve of golf balls, practice range, and club storage
Resort accommodations
Dinner (beginning on evening of arrival)
Breakfast (through day of departure)
Tennis court, beach club (seasonal), and hotel fitness center usage
Book your stay on any Sunday through Wednesday during our spring & fall season and receive a $300** gift card

Putter Boy Package Rates start at $452 per person per night in summer

 

Pinehurst Centennial Package:  This exclusive offering includes championship golf and special commemorative gift!  

Package includes:

• One round of championship golf on Pinehurst No. 2**

• Two additional rounds of golf on your choice of 7 courses

• Caddie for your No. 2 round

• Short game clinic - how to play those No. 2 greens

• One Golfer's Massage at The Spa at Pinehurst

• Special No. 2 commemorative gift

• Resort accommodations

• Breakfast and dinner daily

• Book your stay on any Sunday through Wednesday during our Spring and Fall season and receive a $300*** gift card.

Summer rates start at $1,235* per person and include:


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4) Early Celebration of Super Bowl XLII with a Guys' Night Out at the Pointe South Mountain Resort

It's no surprise that the Super Bowl will be held Feb. 3 in Glendale. Although it may be snowing in the Arizona high country, the month of February in the Valley of the Sun boasts an average temperature of 70°F during the day. Since it's a local event, save your money for a ticket or a big-screen TV, and celebrate early now with the Guy's Night Out Package at the Pointe South Mountain Resort. They've combined clubs, cards, and Coronas--everything guys love--and packed them into a weekend package that's sure to inspire an annual tradition. Hey, maybe you can rent a DVD of last year's game to watch in your suite.

Grab your friends for a weekend built for guys, including:

-Presidential Suite plus additional Resort Suite
-Complimentary poker set - one commemorative Pointe South Mountain Resort poker set including 11.5 gram logo'd chips and 4 custom logo’d decks of cards in metal carrying case.
-Coronas, Coronas, Coronas - 12-pack on ice complimented by chips & salsa.
-Lights, camera, action - one complimentary in-suite movie!
-Four Rounds of Golf - Phantom Horse Golf Club offering a perfect blend of traditional links and desert golf in the Southwest.

May 1 - Sept 3, 2007: Rates start at $439* per night.

Sept 4 - Dec 31, 2007: Rates start at $499* per night.

*Subject to change and based on availability. Not available for group business. Does not include resort fees or taxes. Must be booked 5 days in advance. Blackout dates may apply. Four Swedish massage treatments may be substituted for rounds of golf during those dates.


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5) The Ultimate Mancation Package at the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa

Vegas is the ultimate destination for a guys night out on the town--just a 5-hour drive or 1-hour flight from Phoenix. No matter if your budget is limited to Circus Circus or the Bellagio, or perhaps something in between, you'll manage to have a great time. While this package is a fantasy for most, remember, fantasies can come true, and what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

This one-of-a-kind package deals style in spades at JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa. Be men and travel like the rock stars you are.

This package includes:
-a private stretch limo transportation to the resort
-four days and three nights in two, two-bedroom suites for up to four adults
-executive casino host to present $1000 in gaming chips per person for Rampart Casino and an on-hand hostess during play
-one Ferrari 360 Spider for the entire stay
-one day to test drive a racecar with a Suzuki Hayabusa engine
-1/2 day of golf and a brand new set of golf clubs
-1/2 day at Aquae Sulis Spa
-breakfast daily at Ceres
-dinner nightly including one night of a Chef prepared meal including some of the world's most exotic game, seafood and wine and post dinner cigars, cognac and conversation with the chef.

Available throughout 2007 for $49,000.00 including tax and gratuities

 

For more Guys Getaways ideas, check out our latest e-newsletter online at www.family-friendlyvacations.com