Travel

Of all the world’s family playgrounds, the Caribbean just might be the best. To get the most from your Caribbean family vacation, look for the fun and features offered in an all-inclusive resort. Most family vacation packages will usually offer the following:

* Reduced rates for families

* Tap drinks and convenient meals

* Water sports and beach activities

* Water slides and deluxe swimming pools

* Pampering for grown-ups, such as spas, dining rooms and cocktail parties

* Amenities including babysitting

* Family programs and kids’ activities

However, there are times when there are just so many all-inclusive Caribbean family travel resorts out there that it’s difficult to pick just one. Given the financial cost and emotional investment, the stakes are high. How do you know which one goes with you and your family best?

All-Inclusive vs. All-Included

When you see a hotel advertising an “all-inclusive” package, you’d assume that everything is included at one price. Be careful, because all-inclusive Caribbean family vacation packages do not necessarily incorporate everything. Your meals and snacks, drinks, kids’ programs, activities and certain water sports are usually included, but some may be limited.

Here are some additional points to consider:

* Gear for snorkeling is frequently free, but there may be a limit on how long you can use them. And if you want to join a snorkeling boat trip on your Caribbean family travel, it may have an additional cost.

* Scuba gear is usually extra.

* Spas always cost extra, unless you have purchased a special Caribbean family vacation package.

* Off-property outings are not included, though a shuttle bus to a nearby town may be free.

* Even if your resort is not “all-inclusive”, you may have access to special meal plans and/or activities.

* Kayaks, aqua trikes, wind surfing and other non-motorized water sports are usually included. Additional fees may be charged for jet skis, water skiing and other motorized water sports.

Kids’ Club

Most all-inclusive Caribbean family vacation packages offer kids clubs. Many resorts provide cute and friendly little clubs with toy rooms, TVs and video games for older kids. A warm and friendly staff will be available to care for your kids.

Check to see if your resort offers multiple programs for children. There should be a variety of activities and programs for kids of all ages. Beaches Resorts, Club Med in Punta Cana and Atlantis in the Bahamas offer various children’s programs with their all-inclusive Caribbean family vacation packages.

The Littlest Ones

More and more Caribbean resorts are now providing nurseries and infant care for guests traveling with babies and toddlers. This is welcome break for parents, because even those few hours of nap time in the nursery can leave you feeling invigorated and able to fully enjoy your own little piece of Caribbean paradise. Make sure that your travel agent can confirm that babysitting service will be available during your vacation.

If you’re concerned whether on-site doctors or nurses are available, try one of the bigger Caribbean family travel resorts. They’re your best choice.