On our recent trip to the DR, we stayed at a resort up in Miches — about an hour and a half from the airport. It’s remote, peaceful, and exactly the kind of place where you go to unplug and pretend you don’t have 237 unanswered emails.

Noah (my oldest) and I took the hotel shuttle, which was perfectly uneventful. (Well, other than the shuttle driver pulling over, chasing two children, and then getting into a fight with what appeared to be their mother.) The same could not be said for my younger two kids, who landed later and didn’t have the shuttle as an option. So I, in a moment of temporary parental delusion, sent them an Uber.

Spoiler alert: NEVER. DO. THIS.

It All Starts With a Delay

The Uber was already sketchy before it even started moving. The app said the driver would be there in X amount of minutes, but X quickly turned into Y, and then Z. Fine, delays happen. But once the driver finally picked up my kids, things went downhill — and fast.

Just outside of town — aka the last place with lights, witnesses, and strong cell signal — the driver pulled over on the side of the road in a fairly remote area. He told my kids (via Google Translate, because he spoke no English) that he would not take them any further unless they gave him $90 USD. Cash. Right there. On the spot.

The Shake Down

To be clear, my kids aren’t fluent enough in Spanish to realize right way what is going on — they’re more Duolingo-level “I can order tacos” fluent. Jonah tried to negotiate and offered an extra $40, thinking this guy was just trying to hustle a tip. The driver refused. He wanted $90, or no ride. He would leave them outside of a town on a dark road.

At this point, I’m on the phone with them from the resort — pacing, panicking, and trying not to let my brain spiral into every Dateline episode I’ve ever watched. I told them: just agree, I’ll figure out the money. I’m assuming he’ll take the bribe and get back on the road.

Eventually, after 15-20 nerve-wracking minutes parked in the dark on a Dominican roadside, he drives.

Remote Doesn’t Even Begin to Describe It

Noah and I are at the resort and I am losing my minds. There’s still more than an hour to go and the road ahead? Jungle. Literal jungle. Flashbacks hit hard — I was drugged in the DR back in 2017 (something I’ve never shared about publicly), and here I was again, regretting ever setting foot in this country thinking things had improved. Spoiler: they haven’t.

I alerted the hotel staff. I told them what was going on. At 10:30 PM I asked them to call the police. Their response? “We’ll try to find the number.” Cute.

Fast-forward an hour later when I am begging for the police: I realize they absolutely were not calling the police. Why? Because, surprise again — they all knew exactly what this was. A known Uber scam. And they weren’t going to mess with the status quo. (Keep in mind I don’t know about this scam yet.)

The Arrival (and the Shakedown, Part II)

While my kids are en route with a possible extortionist, I’m running around the hotel trying to pull together the $90 in cash. ATM #1 declines me. ATM #2 finally coughs up enough. I’m now armed with $60 in USD and $33 USD in Dominican pesos, which I guess equals please-don’t-hurt-my-kids money.

And just when I think it’s over, the kids call again — “He’s lost.” Oh, now he’s lost? I had to get a hotel staff member to give him directions. Technically, I begged 3 staff members to speak with him and finally, one did.

When my kids finally arrive — hours later — I literally run to security to meet them. I’m shaking, crying, thankful they’re okay. We walk to the front desk… but guess who follows us?

Yep. The driver. Onto the property. Past security. And now he’s demanding more money. Loudly.

And Still, No One Helps

The money I’ve already gathered is sitting there, on the front desk counter, as he continues asking for more money. Security watches. Hotel staff watches. No one intervenes. In fact, they pull out a taxi chart and start explaining that I still owe him money. Except I’ve already paid more than the listed rate of $140 USD.

Also, did we forget what an Uber is? It’s supposed to be cheaper than a cab.

At this point, I’ve gone from scared to full-blown furious. I push the cash toward the driver and refuse to pay another cent. He still won’t leave. Security still won’t help. The front desk starts pointing at my daughter and blaming her, which, what? WHY?

After 10 tense minutes of refusing and stonewalling, the driver finally gives up and leaves. Not because hotel security removed him — oh no. Because I screamed at him until he realized I wasn’t backing down.

So, What Did We Learn?

If you’re thinking about taking an Uber in the Dominican Republic: Don’t. Do not for any reason ever step foot in an Uber in the Dominican Republic.

Here’s why:

• Many Uber drivers run cash scams and hold tourists hostage mid-ride.
• Most drivers speak no English, making negotiations (or SOS calls) nearly impossible.
• Locals — including hotel staff — often know this is happening and won’t intervene.
• Security? More like silent spectators.
• Only use verified hotel transportation or private transfer companies.

The Bottom Line

I truly believed the Dominican Republic had cleaned up its act in the last decade. And maybe in some areas, it has. But this experience reminded me — painfully — that scams like this are still alive and well, and tourists are still easy targets.

So take it from me: unless you want to recreate your own real-life Taken movie, DO NOT TAKE AN UBER IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC. It’s just not worth the risk.

FYI: Yes, I have reached out to Uber. They don’t care.

The post NEVER Take an Uber in the Dominican Republic appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Rooms Bigger Than Your Patience

The rooms here are spacious enough that hopefully, you won’t have to listen to the kids argue about who’s breathing whose air. Pictured here is a regular room but they have larger rooms that can accommodate more. They also have connecting rooms for families that need more space.

Pools Galore (Lifeguards Included)

The resort boasts enough pools to ensure that you can avoid anyone you know (including your kids, but don’t tell them that). The presence of lifeguards means you can relax on the sidelines, sipping something tropical, and not leap up everytime someone shouts, “Watch this!”

Baby Club, Because Toddlers Need Vacations Too

Yes, they have a Baby Club. No, it’s not a nightclub for toddlers, though that would be adorable. Kids aged 1-3 can enjoy activities more suited to their pint-sized attention spans while you do something reckless, like reading a book uninterrupted.

Black & White Junior Club: Teenager Heaven

It’s like they know the universal truth: if teens are happy, everyone is happy. With unlimited food you are halfway there when it comes to keeping them happy, their own hang-out space will get them the rest of the way there. This club offers them a haven with video games, arts, sports, and a chance to meet other teens who also pretend they don’t want to be seen with their parents.

Sports Facilities

With archery, basketball, volleyball, and soccer available, you can shoot some hoops or arrows (at targets, please), and feel less guilty about that extra dessert at dinner. It’s vacation calories, so they don’t really count, but your jeans might think otherwise. Plus, they have tennis courts and pickleball courts. I took a pickleball lesson and it was great. I went from never playing before to feeling confident enough to play with friends when I returned home.

Eat, Eat, and Eat Some More

Their array of restaurants caters to the pickiest eater, except Kusko, which is mainly fish and I (being the mature adult I am) do not eat fish. Granted I am allergic and although this is occasionally an issue Grand Palladium Palace went above and beyond to ensure I was safe eating.

From Mediterranean flavors to Texas barbecue, your taste buds can go on their own global tour without leaving the resort. And, since I am Texan I can vouch for the bbq. At Chic I had a BBQ rib that was next level, the meat fell right off the bone, as it should.

Zentropia Spa & Wellness: The ‘Adults-Only’ Sanctuary

This is where you escape when you need a break from your beloved offspring. The spa offers massages, steam baths, and a serene sanctuary where the only screams you hear are your own—screams of joy, of course.

The hydrotherapy is extensive and includes a sauna, Turkish Hamman, ice room, jacuzzi, cold plunge pool, mud, and more! It was hands down the best hydrotherapy I’ve ever done.

Shows and Entertainment: Better Than Bedtime Stories

Every night, there’s a different show. These range from live music to karaoke to dancing to Chic a musical journeys. It’s like having Broadway on the beach, but you don’t need to dress up unless you want to impress the guy selling popcorn. For Chic, men need to wear pants otherwise they can’t be seated.

The Beach: It’s Huge

The beach is so expansive, that everyone can stake out their territory without encroaching on another’s sandcastle-building real estate. All along the beach are tons of lounge chairs and I was able to always find an available seat no matter what time of day I headed out.

Infinite Indie Excursions

Outside the resort, adventures await. Zip-lining through the jungle, swimming with dolphins, or exploring islands—choose your own adventure or let your kids choose and just nod approvingly. A Saoona Island day trip is pretty great, but it does take a while to get there. I do not recommend it for anyone with small children.

Best Accessibility in Punta Cana

I know that is a bold statement but I’ve been to at least 8 resorts in Punta Cana and this is the first time I’ve seen a ramp into the pool. And not just one pool, every single large pool. On top of having ramps, they have wheelchairs that go into the water that you can get from the lobby. If you get around by wheelchair this is what I consider to be the absolute best resort for you to vacation at.

The post 10 Reasons the Grand Palladium Palace in Punta Cana is a Family Haven appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Grand Palladium Palace Punta Cana

Grand Palladium Punta Cana has a little bit of everything. Rooms that can accommodate up to five people, swim-out rooms, loads of restaurants and bars, live entertainment every single night, and more. For the kids, there’s a baby club, kids club, and even a tween/teen club. The beach is 1 kilometer which means there is always a place for your family to sit. All of the main pools have ramps and they can provide you with a wheelchair that can go into the water if needed. Parents will love the spa with extensive hydrotherapy.  Check current rates. 

Margaritaville Cap Cana Island Reserve

Margaritaville Cap Cana is small but has a lot going on. Their beach is massive and they’ve got loads of amenities including multiple pools, fantastic food, a game room with a pingpong table, shuffleboard, and tvs set up for playing video games, and live entertainment.

They will even deliver floating tacos to you in the pool! If you are traveling with teenagers instead of younger kids, then you will love this place. Read our full review: Margaritaville Cap Cana Island Reserve and check current rates at Margaritaville on Expedia or price out an entire vacation package with Apple Vacations. 

Dreams Onyx Punta Cana

An all-inclusive resort located in Uvero Alto and adjacent to their sister property Breathless, where Dreams Onyx guests have exchange privileges.

This resort has 502 rooms all of which have a Jacuzzi on the balcony. All of the downstairs rooms are swim-out rooms with pools in front of the terraces. If you stay in a room on the second or third floor, you give up the swim-out amenity for a view, which is fine since there are five swimming pools on the property including a large saltwater pool close to the ocean. Since my visit they’ve added a couple of massive waterslides.

Pools are not the only thing this resort has lots of, because they also have eight bars and eight restaurants! Restaurant selections include French, Italian, and Asian cuisines.

All guests also have shared access to the 24-hour fitness center with free weights and cardio plus the spa. Check current on Expedia or price out an entire vacation package with Apple Vacations. 

Jewel Palm Beach

Jewel Palm Beach Resort is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the ultimate in relaxation and luxury. The all-inclusive resort caters to families and adults alike, with special options available for each. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be treated like royalty, with champagne and wine at the ready, and five bars and seven restaurants to choose from. The World Cafe buffet is a foodie’s dream come true, with island after island of gourmet cuisines from around the world.

But it’s not just about the food and drink – Dreams Palm Beach has so much more to offer. The property itself is beautiful, with lush greenery and nice touches like playful porch swings. Two large pools and a hot tub offer plenty of space to splash around in, and the stunning beach is just a stone’s throw away. If you’re lucky enough to score a honeymoon suite, you’ll even have your very own hammock on the deck – the perfect place to relax and soak up the Caribbean sun.

For those looking for a little something extra, the Preferred options are a must. Families can enjoy exclusive access to a lounge with gaming tables and a private swimming pool, while adults can choose from a range of options just for them. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast looking to be wowed by Clemente the bartender, or just looking to relax in the sun, Dreams Palm Beach has everything you need for the perfect vacation. Check current rates. 

Bahia Principe Brand Bavaro

Get ready to fall in love with the amazing Punta Cana! Its white-sand beaches, tropical weather, and unique culture make it the ultimate family vacation spot. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, look no further than this hotel. Its impeccable ambiance and accommodations cater to travelers of all ages. Kids can enjoy the thrilling themed waterpark or join the Bahia Scouts program, all under the watchful eye of their attentive staff. Meanwhile, parents can kick back and soak up the sun on the pristine beach.

As part of the Bahia Principe Bavaro complex, guests get to indulge in the recently added Las Olas, a beachfront leisure area featuring a mouth-watering array of five restaurants serving Indian, Greek, Fish Market, Rodizio, and Mexican cuisine. To top it off, guests get the chance to book one complimentary hour per day of water sports directly at the hotel’s beachfront watersports center. Get ready to make unforgettable memories at this resort that will last a lifetime. Check current rates. 

The Majestic Colonial Punta Cana Resort

Majestic Colonial Punta Cana Resort is a luxurious resort with everything from family-friendly activities to adult-only areas, so everyone in your group can have a great time. The resort also has its own water park with slides and lazy rivers, as well as an on-site spa and fitness center. Accommodations range from standard rooms to suites and villas, so you can choose which one fits your needs best. Check current rates. 

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana

If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation experience that is sure to please everyone in your family, then the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is the place for you. This hotel offers a wide range of activities, such as pool and beach parties, live performances by world-renowned artists, and outdoor adventures like zip lining and horseback riding. Plus, they have their own casino with slot machines and table games – so you can try your luck! The accommodations are just as impressive; they offer everything from standard rooms to full-on suites with balconies overlooking the ocean. Check current rates. 

The Westin Punta Cana Resort & Club

Last but certainly not least is The Westin Punta Cana Resort & Club. This all-inclusive resort offers luxurious accommodations with views of both the Caribbean Sea and La Cana golf course (which happens to be one of the best courses in Latin America). They also have several restaurants serving up delicious cuisine from all over the world – so everyone in your group will find something to enjoy! And if that wasn’t enough already, there are plenty of recreational activities available at this resort too – such as tennis courts and a kids club offering supervised activities for children ages 4-12 years old. Check current rates. 

Nickelodeon Punta Cana

The Nickelodeon Resort in Punta Cana is an all-inclusive paradise on the Dominican Republic coast that offers so much more than just fun in the sun. Kids will be over the moon with the swim-up suites where they can jump right into the pool from their room! But that’s not all! The waterpark is the perfect spot for families to spend their days, enjoying a lazy river and waterpark fort complete with spray toys and a splash bucket. You can also sign up to get slimed! We got slimmed and it was so much fun!

The kids club and character meet and greets will give your little ones a chance to make new friends while you relax in a cabana on the beach. And let’s not forget the eleven on-site restaurants, including the unique Spacewalker that serves your food from a pouch! Trust me, this resort will leave your family with unforgettable memories. Check current rates at Nickelodeon Punta Cana.

Club Med Punta Cana

Club Med Punta Cana is the perfect getaway for your family! Located in the Dominican Republic, the resort boasts a beautiful beach and is only a 10-minute drive from Punta Cana Village and the airport. While exploring the Village’s fancy restaurants, bars, and shops, parents can entrust their children to Club Med’s programs for babies through teens. The programs offer a vast array of water and land activities, including a creative playground inspired by the world-famous acrobatic shows, CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil.

If you are traveling with children aged 2 and under, Club Med Punta Cana offers a complimentary Baby Welcome service upon request. There’s truly no need to worry about packing a stroller, diaper-changing mat, baby bath, or a pack ‘n’ play. You can find it all here!

Additionally, Club Med’s Tiara luxury family suites are designed with your family in mind. The suites feature a separate bathroom and bedroom for children, ensuring privacy and a comfortable stay for the whole family.

If you’re looking for a break from the kids, don’t miss Club Med Punta Cana’s new Zen Oasis. This adults-only retreat is an advanced and modern vacation destination. So whether you’re traveling with the whole family or just your partner, Club Med Punta Cana has everything you need to create lasting memories.

Check current rates at Club Med Punta Cana.

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino – a Caribbean paradise that has something for every type of traveler! This 5-star all-inclusive resort boasts of over 1,000 spacious rooms divided into three main concepts: family-friendly, adults-only, and unique.

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll love the variety of activities such as the waterpark, Panchi kids club, Vibe teen club, bowling alley, arcade, escape room, ice cream parlor, candy shop, and much more. It’s the perfect destination for happy family memories that will last a lifetime. Check current rates.

No matter what kind of vacation experience you’re looking for, these Punta Cana resorts are sure to provide it! From luxurious amenities to exciting activities – not to mention stunning views – each one will offer something different but equally amazing for your whole family. So why wait? Start planning your dream getaway today! You won’t be disappointed.

Read Next:

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Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post 11 Best Family Resorts in Punta Cana in 2025 appeared first on Mommy Travels.

You must look for a resort that provides everything, including facilities like kids’ clubs, sports, entertainment, spacious accommodation, and dining options. That’s where an all-inclusive Club Med resort comes into the picture. Here, you can find all the above amenities and enjoy additional things like spa treatments, golf courses, excursions to nearby attractions, etc.

With that said, let’s explore some of the best Club Med resorts around the world that are perfect for family stays. 

Club Med Caravelle

Club Med Caravelle can be your ideal holiday destination if you love the mountains and beach equally. Located on the island of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean’s heart, this resort is surrounded by tall mountains, lush rainforests, and coral reefs. It boasts an ideal location on a white sand beach with crystal clear waters. 

The spacious rooms with scenic views in the newly built Sainte-Anne region are perfect for large families. Or you can also book a suite with a beach-facing balcony.

There are two restaurants and four bars on the premises of this resort, which means a lot of tasty delicacies to try. You can either head to a buffet or enjoy an intimate dinner with your family by the beachside. 

Club Med Caravelle also offers a range of activities for kids, 2 to 3-year-old kids can learn new things in the shade of coconut palms at the Petit Club Med. Similarly, there is a tennis school and kitesurfing opportunities for the elder ones. With all these things on board, your kids will cherish every single moment spent in this paradise. 

Check current rates at Club Med Caravelle. 

Club Med Kani, Maldives

Want to enjoy a dreamy holiday with your loved ones in the Maldives? Bring your vision into reality by planning a stay at Club Med Kani. 

Although everything about this resort is exceptional, the overwater bungalows set it apart. Imagine opening your room’s windows, and all you see around is crystal-clear water. Each beachfront bungalow has two interconnecting bedroom suites, perfect for accommodating large families.  

To complement the peace, some adventurous activities are also available, especially for the kids. You can take them kayaking, surfing, or even sailing. And for yourself, you can book a relaxing Balinese massage by the ocean. 

The resort’s Vehli, Kandu, and Kaana restaurants offer a range of local and international cuisines like Asian soups, tapas, and sandwiches. Whether dining under the stars on the ocean side or exploring the dishes of the buffet, the food options are endless. 

Check current rates for Club Med Kani. 

Club Med Columbus Isle, Bahamas

If you want a more private getaway to a beach with your family, the Club Med Columbus Isle in the Bahamas can be an ideal destination. The cottage’s interiors are based on an eye-soothing color scheme of turquoise and magenta. And, the balconies are large enough to host private night parties. Stepping out of the resort, a private 89-acre pristine beachfront awaits you. 

Even for kids, especially teenagers, the fun and learning opportunities are endless at the nearby teens’ club. From embarking on adventurous kayak trips to playing volleyball at the beach, your kids will never have a moment of boredom during their stay.

If you want to enjoy the best of Bahamian cuisine, Christopher’s restaurant in the resort is a perfect place to be. Or you can treat your taste buds with Mediterranean-themed food at the La Pinta Beach Lounge. The restaurant’s bar is also a nice place to spend a relaxed evening with refreshing cocktails. 

Check current rates at Club Med Columbus Isle.

Club Med Cancun, Mexico

The Club Med Cancun in Mexico is a complete package of entertainment and convenience for families on vacation. Located by the Caribbean Sea, this resort offers various outdoor activities like pickleball, tennis, golf, archery, and, it is heaven for water sports lovers. With opportunities to indulge in scuba diving, fly-fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling, 

If you stay in the resort’s luxury ocean-view suites, you can get unlimited access to all the available amenities. You can also enjoy massages and facial treatments at L’occitane Club Med SPA. Or take excursions to explore nearby attractions such as the Ancient Kingdom of Ek Balam, Isla Mujeres, and Yucatán Peninsula. 

How can we forget the food? The resort has many restaurants and bars. Hacienda Restaurant is one of the tourists’ favorites for its premium Mexican cuisine and its 5-themed dining halls by the poolside. 

For Argentinian food and high-quality wines, you can dine at the Estancia Restaurant on the terrace with beautiful ocean views. Also, the Taco Arte and The Creperie Restaurants are renowned for their international and local cuisines and picturesque landscapes. 

Check current rates at Club Med Cancun 

Club Med Punta Cana, Hispanolia

Located on the breathtaking island of Hispaniola in the Dominican Republic, booking a stay at Club Med Punta Cana will be worth every penny. This resort offers a getaway to the white sand beach and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. 

To enjoy the trip as a couple, the Baby Club Med offers to take care of your kids. They offer top-notch childcare services and several interactive activities for infants. And, your little ones can also explore the natural surroundings under expert supervision. 

You can participate in an array of outdoor activities like tennis, golf, archery, and horse riding. They also offer a variety of water sports, including kite surfing, sailing, and scuba diving. 

There are numerous recreational activities to discover, but one that you might not find in any other Club Med is the acrobatics show you can find here. The depiction of world-class gymnastic skills in this show will fascinate your younger ones.

You can find various sea-view restaurants and bars in the resort’s surroundings, each with something interesting. For example, the Indigo Beach Lounge has an intriguing dining menu of sea, salt, and fire. The chef will prepare dishes with your choice of salts, spices, meats, and vegetables. Other unique activities include attending pancake parties and baking workshops. 

Check current rates at Club Med Punta Cana.

Club Med Marrakech La Palmeraie

Located in Marrakech, Morocco is an oasis in the desert. Club Med Marrakech just opened the Family Oasis Extension with a family pool, playground, bar, and some waterslides. They also have other pools, an assortment of kids clubs for kids ages 4 months through age 17. 

Families will love the theme nights like white night with a garden party or Marrakech night were you enjoy live music and eat all Moroccan food. Mom will love the spa, dad will love the golf course, and kids will love the trapeze. Check current rates!

Bottom Line: 

Planning a trip with family calls for extra attention, as you must take care of everyone’s needs and safety, especially when kids are accompanying you. But don’t worry; a reservation at an all-inclusive Club Med resort can be your ultimate solution. 

Read Next:

25 Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families

Top Family All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

The post 7 Best All-Inclusive Club Med Resorts For Families  appeared first on Mommy Travels.

We have not stayed in very many hotels with special themed rooms other than at Great Wolf Lodge. Going into next year we are hoping to stay in some of these unique rooms found around the world. Here are 15 cool hotel rooms for kids we are hoping to stay in next year.

15 Cool Hotel Rooms for Kids

1. The Pineapple at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana 

Inspired by the famous pineapple under the sea, famed home to SpongeBob SquarePants, this sumptuous one-of-a-kind villa is the signature dwelling at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana – the world’s first and only Pineapple.

With 2,292 square feet of incredible indoor and outdoor living areas, including a garden, patio, signature infinity pool, and private butler caters to your every whim, the 2 bedroom / 3 bath villa is a palatial paradise in the Dominican Republic.

Rates at the Pineapple start at $3,800 per night, including the Gourmet Inclusive Experience of all gourmet meals served a la carte, premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service and full-service concierge. Granted, at that price we will never stay here!

2. Eloise Suite at The Plaza New York Plaza

Outrageous pink and black décor by Betsy Johnson adorns the walls of the 625 sq. ft. suite on the “tippy-top floor” of the Plaza Hotel.

Named for The Plaza’s famous resident in Kay Thompson’s Eloise books, the room features everything Eloise. From Eloise-themed tea for two at The Palm Court to Eloise-approved books and toys, kids will be absolutely delighted by the over-the-top suite that offers guest a day in the life of the precocious little heroine.

And yes, it is expensive to stay here. Check current rates. 

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3. UFO at the Treehotel in Harads, Sweden 

Kids are immediately transported to space in this out-of-this-world treehouse in the woods. Fashioned as a UFO, the intergalactic suite is built for two adults and three children, with a living room, in-room bathroom, and two large separate beds.  1..2..3…ready for takeoff to every child’s dream! Check current rates on Expedia. 

4. Wizard Chambers at the Georgian House Hotel

Immerse your child in magic and marvel in The Wizard Chamber, created for Harry Potter aficionados in London. Concealed behind a bookcase door, the Gothic décor evokes the magical style of Hogwarts lodgings. Each room features faux castle details such as stained glass windows, stone walls, cauldrons, four-poster beds hung with velvet curtains, and an abundance of other curious artifacts. Check current rates on Booking.com. 

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5. Legoland Beach Retreat in Winter Haven, Florida 

At the Legoland Beach Retreat, guests have the opportunity of staying in their own beach-themed bungalow decorated with whimsical LEGO^®décor inside and out. Designed to look like it’s made of giant Lego bricks, each bungalow room can sleep up to five people with one king-sized bed for parents and a small nook that has bunk beds for the kids.

In addition, each bungalow is centered around an expansive outdoor play area, all within view of the bungalow’s shaded patios, where parents can put their feet up, kick back, and relax while the kids play. Check current rates on Expedia. 

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6. Hotel De Glace

Located just outside of Quebec City, Quebec is one of the coolest kid hotel rooms available according to my friend Sarah. As long as you are okay with sleeping in a -3 to -5 degree room. In past years, the Hotel De Glace won the hearts of little kids across the world with their Frozen suite. The animators of the film actually stayed at the hotel when drawing up plans for Elsa’s ice castle. 

Other incredible themed suites have included The Great Gatsby and the iconic Canadian Hockey Suite. The hotel melts away each year and so with each Winter comes a brand new selection of suites. Check current rates on Expedia. 

7. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando has Despicable Me suites. We stayed at a Universal hotel for the first time, but we stayed over at Cabana Bay where the rooms were 1950’s throwback rooms. The next time we are at Universal we plan to stay in one of these despicable me rooms. They look awesome! Check current rates on Hotels.com. 

8. The Palms Pink Suite

Hot Pink Suite at The Palms in Las Vegas. I love Vegas and I take my kids there fairly often. One of these days we are going to stay in this hot pink suite! Granted, I typically would not recommend staying here with the kids. The Palms would be better for a girl’s trip. Designed by the famous “Happy Chic” designer Jonathan Adler, this 2,350-square-foot suite is the ultimate bachelorette party pad. The suite’s dreamy décor features corseted, lace-up chairs, custom art, and terrazzo bubble floors.

5 Days in Las Vegas with Kids

18 Delicious Family friendly restaurants in Las Vegas

Things To Do In Las Vegas With Kids

11 Best Kid-Friendly Las Vegas Hotels

9. Fantasyland Hotel

Space-themed rooms in Edmonton, Canada. One of my friends stayed here a while back and it looked awesome! The room has one queen bed and capsule bunk beds for the kids. Plus, there is a two-person Jacuzzi. They have an assortment of other themed rooms including a Hollywood theme and Arabian themed.

10. The Shire of Montana

This is a Hobbit-themed house. This Hobbit House offers visitors an interesting underground lodging experience full of imagination. Inside the house isn’t really that cool, but the outside is neat. It is small, so it can only accommodate 3 people. Kids must be 12 years old or older to stay here. Check current rates on VRBO.

9-Day Summertime Montana Road Trip Itinerary

11. Grand Mirage Resort

The Grand Mirage Resort in Bali has some interesting rooms that kids will like, including rooms with bunk beds and themed rooms like this girl’s room. For the kids, Grand Mirage Bali Resort features kid’s mini water park, pool slides, an indoor playground, a kid’s club, kids e-lounge, a foam party, and many more. Check current rates on Hotels.com. 

12. Blue Hills Ranch

Just 15 minutes outside of Waco, TX you will find a Blue Hills Ranch, a 150-acre resort with green rolling hills, lakes, giraffes, zebras, otters, kangaroos, and more. Here you can rent one of their themed cabins, like the Hook cabin or the Kraken cabin pictured here. Both the animal encounters and the cabins have to be booked well in advance. 

13. Iniala Beach House

Iniala Beach House in Takua Thung, Thailand has some seriously cool rooms for those traveling with kids. You cannot book the room shown, but your kids can stay in it. It’s the kid’s club which is a kid’s hotel and should they want to they can stay the night. 

14. Graduate New York “Big” Suite

Located on the sixth floor of Graduate New York, the Loft Suite has been fully transformed into a toy-filled suite just as Tom Hanks’ character, Josh Baskin does to his NYC apartment in the film. Sleeping up to six guests, making for the perfect family getaway, The Loft Suite provides iconic childhood toys and games complete with a real Zoltar machine and themed bunk beds. A life-sized floor piano and mini trampoline are also included, and the most nostalgic part? Guests can watch Big on an old TV via VHS.  

15. The Curtis Hotel

The Curtis Hotel in Denver has a bunch of themed rooms but I think their video game-themed room is by far the best one. It even has an old-school Donkey Kong game in the room! In the lobby, they have board games you can play as well. Check current rates!

This list could keep going. We’ve stayed at Aulani in Oahu and we all love it. The rooms were not themed out, but they were nice and we enjoyed it. Same for a hotel in Portland, Riverplace. It was not themed but is one of our favorite places I’ve ever stayed in.

Read Next:

23 Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families

Top 9 Destinations for Teens and Tweens in the United States

18 Best All-inclusive Resorts for Teenagers

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. 

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post 15 Cool Hotel Rooms for Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Location

First off, let’s talk about the resort’s location. Nestled on the coast of the Dominican Republic, this resort boasts stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. It’s a verdant oasis that’s surrounded by coconut trees, and pristine beaches. The resort is situated between Punta Cana’s famous fishing village and the sparkling turquoise waters of Bavaro Beach. It offers an idyllic setting, perfect for families looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This isn’t a good fit for couples or anyone traveling solo, it is very heavily geared towards families with 4 – 12-year-old children. 

Amenities

Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is an all-inclusive resort that caters to every traveler’s needs but mainly four to twelve year olds. Whether you’re into water sports, beach lounging, or luxury living, there’s something for everyone.

Spa

The resort boasts a five-star spa, where you can indulge in luxury massages, facials, and body treatments. I didn’t try the spa, so I don’t know if it’s worth it or not. A 50-minute massage is around $149 from what I can recall. They did let me take a few photos of the hydrotherapy area. It looked great. 

Fitness Center

There is a fitness center, where you can stay active during your vacation. I was able to get in a solid workout here. Granted you will be sweating profusely walking around in the hot sun. Not a ton of shade at this resort. You must wear closed-toe shoes to use the equipment. 

Aqua Nick

But the highlight of the resort is its popular waterpark, aptly named ‘Aqua Nick’. This attraction features small slides, a lazy river, splash pads, and other water activities that cater to all ages. Trust me; as a big kid myself, I had a blast floating the lazy at this waterpark. It’s non-stop fun and excitement that will keep you entertained all day. (If your teen is 18 or 19 know that they cannot use the water slides. Jonah outweighs Eden by 50+ lbs and he was allowed to use the slides and she was not. It’s age based not weight based.)

Special Events

Two of the nights we were there we noticed that there were special events going on. We attended the White Beach Party and the Orange Carpet events. At the White Beach Party, there was a BBQ, several bars, and live entertainment like acrobats.

The Orange Carpet event also had a buffet with an impressive dessert spread. The live entertainment was some of the characters dancing to a few songs. I believe the children were allowed to go out and dance with the characters for one of the songs, but there were so many parents it was hard to see. 

Get Slimed

There were opportunities to get slimed with a group or you could pay for a private slime experience. The group sliming took place at Aqua Nick in the afternoon and sometimes at sunset. 

 

 

 

 

 

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Food

Although the food was good, it wasn’t as good as I have experienced at other Karisma Resorts. Considering this is mainly a children’s resort the food was fine. We ate at the buffet and a handful of restaurants. I was super excited to try out the Bloody Mary you see on their website but they don’t actually offer it. 

Brgrs PH

I don’t know how to order it but they offer a giant hamburger for the table that will easily. Our food here was pretty good, but not as good as the Italian. 

VERDELLO | Sicilian Kitchen

Verdello’s offers really solid Italian food. We enjoyed this restaurant a lot and by the end of our trip it was our favorite. 

Spacewalker

Spacewalker was a fun spot for dinner. You have to make a reservation to dine here. There is a simulator thing for kids here so be prepared to spend $5 for your kiddo to do this. 

Sugarcane Buffet

They had a pretty extensive buffet with a lot of options. In the morning they had a mimosa and Bloody Mary cart. 

Bars

There were a lot of bars. They all had the same stuff more or less. There was a bar at several pools, the beach, small-looking pop-up bars around the property, and the theater. I thought their cocktail menu was super creative and many of them I had never heard of. 

Rooms

We stayed in a basic room with two beds. There was a fold-out couch but the couch was broken. So, if you need the couch make sure they know so you don’t have any issues. The room had a mini bar with a few beers, a few sodas, two bags of chips, and some water. There is a coffee pot and stuff to make two cups of coffee. The bathroom has a slightly separate toilet area and a shower only, no bathtub. The shower had shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. The sink was a double sink with hand soap and lotion. We had a large balcony with some chairs and a couch and a view of other buildings. It was a good place to hang dry clothes. If you do not stay on the first floor you will not have a swim-out room. 

Store

Do your best to not have to buy anything at the store here, instead pack everything you think you will need. I paid $33 for an average size box of tampons. Yes, that’s probably TMI but I was stunned at the prices! You expect to pay maybe double but this was triple, maybe even quadruple. 

If you have kids ages 4 – 12, Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is the perfect destination. (I do not recommend this for families with teenagers. There is not enough for them to do.) From famous Nicktoons characters like Spongebob and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to live shows, the resort has it all. There are also kid-friendly dining options and a dedicated ‘Kids Club’ that’s open every day, so your little ones are entertained while you take some time off.

Conclusion: 

As a traveler who’s been around, I can honestly say that Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is one of the best vacation destinations that I’ve visited for families with children ages 4 – 12. It offers a perfect balance of luxury, relaxation, and fun activities. I highly recommend you book your stay at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana, and let the memories begin.

Read Next:

Margaritaville Punta Cana

Dreams Flora Resort and Spa in Punta Cana

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana appeared first on Mommy Travels.

The Dominican Republic recorded staggering tourism figures in 2022 and became the most visited location in the Caribbean. 

Here is everything you need to know to spend a well-deserved holiday by the beach with your kids and have the most memorable time in the Dominican Republic.

General Information for the Dominican Republic

More than 100 nationalities will enjoy visa-free entry to the Dominican Republic with only some countries from Africa and Asia needing visas to enter. All passengers need a Dominican Republic e-ticket to enter, which includes an entry and exit card, a health affidavit, and a customs declaration.

Despite its Caribbean location, you can easily reach the island from several airports in the USA and there are even direct flights from Europe’s Spanish, German, and French airports.

The two biggest health concerns in the Dominican Republic are Malaria and Hepatitis B. Both are preventable; you should eat at reputable establishments and always wear mosquito repellent. 

Things to do with kids in the Dominican Republic

Now that the formalities are out of the way, we can get into the fun stuff! These are the attractions and activities you simply can’t miss when traveling with kids to the Dominican Republic:

Get an adrenaline rush at Bavaro Adventure Park

You know you are in for a treat when ‘adventure’ is in the name. Here the whole family can ride on Segways, go zorbing, hop on a bungee trampoline, walk on a high line, and get up close to a gigantic animatronic dinosaur.

Make your dreams come true at the Dolphin Island Park

Every 90s child with a Lisa Frank notebook dreamt of one day swimming with dolphins. Now you can make that dream a reality and share this precious memory with your own kids at Dolphin Island Park.

Explore the magical ocean at Marinarium Marine Park and Aquarium

This unique 40,000 m2 marine park takes you on an aquarium adventure like you couldn’t dream of. Snorkel with sting rays and take selfies with sharks, all in their natural habitat. Go on a glass-bottom boat cruise and explore the fascinating underwater world of the island’s reefs. 

Enjoy a lazy day on Isla Saona

The Dominican Republic is a treasure trove of activities but sometimes you just need to sit back, relax, and soak in the outrageously beautiful setting you find yourself in. Take a day trip to Isla Soana, off the eastern tip of the island, and enjoy the day lazing on the marble sand with palm trees swaying in the breeze.

Go whale watching in Samana Bay

If you are lucky enough to be in the Dominican Republic between December and March you should venture out in search of the gentle giants of the ocean. The Samana Peninsula offers some of the best whale watching on earth during this time as thousands of humpback whales gather to mate and give birth, a spectacle your family won’t soon forget. 

Scape Park

Scape Park is a nature made park with ziplining, swimming holes, caves, and more. Book tickets in advance. 

Travel tips for families to the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has developed into a world-class tourist destination and families can visit the Caribbean gem knowing they will have unparalleled facilities. But there are a few things to keep in mind when traveling abroad with children.

Food

Resorts have excellent food options and there will always be child-friendly options available. You will even find basics like yogurt and fruit available for fussy eaters. But if your baby is drinking formula or eats very specific packaged soft food, you might want to bring your own supply. Many leading brands from the USA are available but you might have trouble getting to local shops and the prices are usually substantially inflated. 

I do highly recommend trying to get your kids to eat Dominican food. It is so good. An easy item to introduce is Dominican potato salad. 

Accommodation

The beachfront in the Dominican Republic is laden with all-inclusive resorts where both kids and parents will have the time of their lives. Places like Eden Rock Cap Cana and Club Med Punta Cana are in private bays and there is everything from golf to Zumba classes and children’s activities. You can also opt for a more private option and rent a house where multiple families can spend time together and explore the island’s hidden treasures.

Other hotels we like include

• Margaritaville Cap Cana Island Reserve
• Dreams Flora Resort and Spa Punta Cana
• Dreams Onyx Punta Cana

Transportation

Many people opt for all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic, minimizing the need for transportation. If you do want to visit a town or an attraction away from your hotel, arrange with a reputable transportation company and make sure your driver is licensed. They won’t have car seats so you might want to bring one with you if you are traveling with an infant. You will also want to have a body sling to carry your baby because strollers are difficult to manage in historic towns.

Read Next:

Best Eco Lodges Around the World

Allure of the Seas

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Dominican Republic with Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Many Thanks to Apple Vacations for sending us to Margaritaville Cap Cana Island Reserve.

Apple Vacations is the nation’s largest provider of Nonstop Exclusive Vacation Flights. The Apple Vacations robust product line includes popular vacation destinations throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, the Hawaiian Islands, Central America and South America, as well as ski resorts throughout North and South America.
 

Suites

Enjoy bright colorful rooms with lime and orange ascents in every type of room. Swim-out suites are what I highly recommend booking. We had a swim-out suite and it made the entire stay even more fantastic than it already was. The suites do have around 4 bottles of alcohol in them, so if your kids have their own room you may want to be mindful of this. If you have a butler you can just request they be removed from the kid’s room. During your stay, you get a credit to use at their little on-site store where you and your kids can purchase snacks they would like to have in the room. 

The TV had a schedule of each day’s activities which I found incredibly helpful. I also appreciated the Bluetooth speaker. We used it on the patio a lot so we could listen to our music while we hung out. The 24-hr room service was a nice perk too. We had breakfast in our room most mornings. The breakfast buffet was great, but we preferred our breakfast in the room.

In the room are two pairs of flip-flops that you can wear around the resort. There are also two robes in the walk-in closet.  The shower is a two-person shower with two rainfall shower heads. There’s a massive tub should you want to soak instead or you need to bathe your child.

Food

The food at the resort was fabulous, which shouldn’t have been a surprise given they are part of the Karisma brands. Every meal we had was excellent. We definitely enjoyed some more than others but that certainly doesn’t discount the other restaurants. 

Floating Tacos

Two words that will elevate your vacation: floating tacos. Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. These were by far our favorite dining experience at the resort was the floating tacos. You can order them to be served at the pool off of your room if you have a pool there or down at the It’s 5 o’clock Somewhere pool. It’s exactly what it sounds like, tacos that are on a floating tray and you stand around in the pool and building and eating them while washing them down with a fruity beverage. It came with 18 tacos, chips and salsa, and guacamole! We had ours at the pool attached to our room where it was less chaotic. I am not sure why this was so much fun, but is was one of the highlights of our entire trip. Granted, we love tacos. But doesn’t everybody.
This does cost extra but it’s totally worth it. 

West Indies – Rum Runners

The Caribbean restaurant was one of our favorites and a must-try. It was so good. It can be a little intimidating reading the menu and trying to pick something. None of us knew what we were ordering, but everything was so good we went again for lunch the next day. They offer island-inspired dishes like Dominican sancocho, Caribbean fish broth, chicken pibil, and the always-fresh catch of the day. We haven’t had a lot of experience with Caribbean food, but it didn’t matter. The descriptions were enough for us to each pick out something we enjoyed. Caribbean food always seems to have loads of flavor and this definitely did. 

JWB Steakhouse

The Steakhouse was our other favorite.  Everything we ordered here was superb including the simple bread dish served at the beginning of your meal. Dining here is a must during your visit. All of their steaks are marinated with herb butter and sea salt, and expertly finished on a wood grill. So. although the service is a little slow at times it’s worth the wait.

Frank & Lola’s- Italian Trattoria

The pizza here awesome and so were the traditional items like lasagne. Like the steakhouse, it took a really long time. So keep that in mind when deciding what time to eat. 

LandShark Brewery & Grill

Here you can enjoy a Landshark lager made at their on-site brewery located behind the bar. The Landshark beer made here is less boozy than what they make in Latin America. In addition to brewing Landshark they brew three other seasonal beers, including an American pale ale. None of these four beers go into a bottle or a keg. They each come straight from the barrel into your glass.

Bars

It wouldn’t be Margaritaville without a handful of bars to choose from. They are all equally great and no matter which one you go to you should be able to order exactly what you want. My personal favorite was the 5 o’clock somewhere bar because you could sit on a swing at the bar and have drinks. 

The open air bar that is like a lobby, Punch, has live entertainment off and on throughout the week. My favorite was the rollerblade guy. 

 Activities

They have a lot of planned activities that are fun to participate in, but also equally fun to just watch. One afternoon we watched a super funny pool game where two people that had been blindfolded try to find a small ping pong ball that was floating around in the water. They are given directions but everyone starts screaming and it gets so confusing it’s almost impossible. 

Game Room

There is a small game room on site with a pingpong table and a shuffle board table. There were also two tvs set up for playing video games.

Parakeet Kid’s Club

My kids were too old for the kid’s club so we didn’t experience it first hand but it appeared to be quite good. According to their website the club has tons of island-inspired fun with supervised activities curated for kids aged 4-12.

Fitness Center

Their fitness center is excellent. It had tons of equipment including

• Punching Bags & Mitts 
• TRX 
• Multi-Press Stations 
• Treadmills 
• Ellipticals 
• Rowers 
• Bicycles 
• Olympic Plates 
• Free Weights 
• Resistance Bands 

Tennis and Pickleball Courts

They have tennis courts and pickle ball courts that you can use throughout your stay. 

St. Somewhere Spa

In addition to all the offerings you would expect like scrubs and massages, it has a hydrotherapy area with a sauna, steam room, and red-light shower, sensory pools, thermal loungers, and more. The spa is also home to a lagoon-like “polar pool” where water is kept at 50 ° F to stimulate blood flow and improve circulation. 

Pools

No explanation needed. Lots of pools. 

Beach

The beach has that white powder sand that everyone always prefers. And it is beautiful but like many locations right now in the Caribbean, it’s got a seaweed problem. That’s why we never got into the water. It didn’t really matter though because there were so many pools. And when your room has a pool, it’s your favorite place to be!

Their beach has tons of chairs and beach beds with shade. We never had to fight for a spot because there were so many available. There’s also a small bar right on the beach so you never had to wait long to get your drinks. If you are a timeshare holder/vacation club member there’s a private area on the beach just for you. 

Check current rates!

Read Next:

Now Onyx Punta Cana All-Inclusive Vacation

Dreams Flora Resort and Spa Punta Cana

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Margaritaville Cap Cana Island Reserve appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Dreams Onyx Punta Cana is a lovely all inclusive resort for families in the Dominican Republic. Keep reading to find out why your family will enjoy spending your vacation here. 

Have you ever considered going to Punta Cana?

I just went for the first time and it was AWESOME!

Dreams Onyx Punta Cana

Dreams Onyx Punta Cana (formally Now Onyx) is a brand new family-friendly all-inclusive resort (opened for less than a year) located near Punta Cana in Uvero Alto, just 25.9 miles from the airport. I got to spend a long day here on my most recent Gnational Gnomads trip with Travelocity.

This was probably my favorite day during my trip to the Dominican Republic. It was hard to pick a favorite because all six of the resorts I visited there were fantastic. Right next door is their sister property Breathless Punta Cana where Now Onyx guests have exchange privileges.

Massive Beach

One of the things I appreciated the most was the massive palm-studded beach in front of the resort. The sand was so soft and white. While I was there I saw security making sure vendors would not hassle you. This privacy made the experience better than expected. 

Luxurious Rooms

This smoke-free resort has 502 rooms all of which have 24-hour room service and air conditioning. Room layouts include either one king bed or two double beds.

If you are traveling with kids there are rooms available with pull-out sofas. All the balconies have a whirlpool and chairs to sit in. All rooms have one full bathroom with a shower and hairdryer. In the closet are bathrobes, slippers, and a safe. Along with a minibar stocked with beer, soda, juice, and water, there is a tea and coffee maker.

5 Swimming Pools

All of the downstairs rooms have patios that open up to semi-private swimming pools. If you stay in a room on the second or third floor you give up the swim-out amenity for a view, which is fine since there are five swimming pools on the property including a large saltwater pool close to the ocean. If your kids have eczema, like mine, then they will want to stick with the saltwater pool, it’s easier on their skin.

Gourmet Cuisine

Pools are not the only thing this resort has lots of, because they have 8 bars and 8 restaurants! Restaurant selections include French, Italian, and Asian cuisines.

I was able to enjoy breakfast and lunch here and both were fantastic. Of course, I had to try a Dominican breakfast. It did not disappoint, although it was just a one-time thing for me. I still prefer a Mexican breakfast.

One of the perks of staying here is that you have access to all of the restaurants at Breathless as well. During your stay, I recommend eating at Breathless’s Mexican restaurant, Picante. They have an amazing spicy margarita you can’t miss!

Dreams Onyx Preferred Club

If you want an even more indulgent and luxurious experience you can upgrade to the preferred club for an extra nightly fee. The Preferred Club gets you into a larger room closer to the beach, a better mini bar aka top shelf, and two exclusive lounges and an exclusive air-conditioned restaurant. The Preferred club area has its own pool, Jacuzzi and swim-up bar.

The Preferred Club rooms are for two adults only, no kids. Although there are kids in the other part of the resort when you are in this section you would never know it.

When I looked up the extra cost I found it to be around $20 more a night. That, in my opinion, is totally worth it.

Here is a video tour of this section. Luckily, they have pretty decent WiFi, so I was able to walk around and stream. 

Private Pool Island

Other I thing I think is worth it is paying for a private island! In the adults-only section, you can reserve a private island. I spent a few hours on one and it was awesome. Here’s a little video of Pattie from Living la Vida Loca, Ava from Spa Travel Gal, and I hanging out. 

At one point we got poolside massages. This is definitely worth upgrading for!

Other Amenities

All guests have access to the 24-hour fitness center with free weights and cardio that is shared with their sister resort Breathless Punta Cana.

All guests also receive free parking.

Core Zone Teens Club

The teen’s club named the Core Zone is open from 9 am until midnight. This is great because that means your teen has the option to spend little to no time with you. We all know how fun teens can be at times! They will be thrilled to go do their own thing and not be hassled by the rest of the embarrassing family. Instead, they can participate in games, sports, and other stuff with people their own age. They will be happier and in turn, you will be happier.

Explorers Kid’s Club

Kid’s club aka the Explorer’s Club is for kids between 3-12 years old. Here kids can do arts and crafts, play on the playground, go on a treasure hunt, play video games, watch a movie, and more. All Explorer’s Club staff members are certified by the American Red Cross in CPR for children.

Other activities available for everyone including:

• 2 tennis courts
• Paddle court
• Beach volleyball
• Pool tables
• Dance classes
• Spanish classes
• Aerobics & water aerobics
• Non-motorized water sports
• Snorkeling
• Introductory scuba diving lesson in the pool
• Sailing
• Kayaks

The Spa by Pevonia is shared by both properties as well. I did the fish foot thing. I cannot remember what it was called. They have 15-minute sessions and 25-minute sessions. Everyone should try this once! It’s an interesting experience.

Check current rates. (affiliate link)

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Dreams Onyx Punta Cana Next All-Inclusive Vacation appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Jewel Palm Beach Punta Cana

After spending only a few hours at Jewel Palm Beach Punta Cana (formally Dreams Palm Beach), a family-friendly all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic, it is easy to see why it’s named Dreams. Being greeted with champagne and wine and dining at 5 bars and 7 restaurants is a dream.

Fantastic Food

24-Hour Room Service

Room service is available all the time. Plus, they keep your in-room fridge stocked with soft drinks, juice, bottled water, and beer.

Coral Market Buffet

The World Cafe buffet alone is a foodie’s dream come true with island after island of gourmet cuisines from around the world. Plus, you can customize your own pasta and pizza here. I made up my own pasta and it was incredible!

My friend Pattie from Living La Vida Loca made her own pizza which she also deemed incredible. People that love food will also love the cheese fries at Perfect Grill down on the beach.

Killer Cocktails

Cocktail enthusiasts will be wowed by Clemente the bartender in the lobby bar.  He pulls out all the tricks as he creates his signature drink the Dominican Beach.

Pristine Property

But the dreams extend way beyond food and drink. The property is beautiful with lush vegetation everywhere and nice touches like porch swings. They even have a flamingo pond! 

There are two large pools and a hot tub for everyone to enjoy. Their 500 rooms are spacious and if you score a honeymoon suite there’s a hammock on the deck. When selecting a room try to get a beach view. Their beach is stunning with loads of mature palm trees.

Exclusive Options

A nice option when staying here is upgrading to Preferred. They have Preferred options for families or adults only, which differs from Dreams Onyx where it is only for adults. Here at Dreams Palm Beach families that have an exclusive lounge with gaming tables and a private swimming pool. Preferred guests also get service down on the beach.

Spa

Pattie and I spent some time at the spa and it was absolutely wonderful. We each got a reflexology treatment outside in our private cabana. They have a nice hydrotherapy circuit set up outside too with sauna, steam rooms, whirlpool, hydro-massage, spa showers & ice plunge pool. Hydrotherapy is included with all treatments.

This spa has treatments for kids and teens as well.

Family Amenities at Jewel Palm Beach in Punta Cana

Core Zone Teens Club 

This club features daily activities, a vast array of sports & games and nightly social events for kids ages 13 – 17.

Explorer’s Club

For kids ages 3-12 years old, they have an Explorer’s Club. Kids can stay active & entertained here while you enjoy adult time. The Explorer’s Club is completely supervised by our American Red Cross-certified staff. Parents can keep in touch with their kids throughout the day with complimentary pagers and cell phones provided by the club

Included Activities:

• Ping pong
• Basketball
• Beach and pool volleyball
• Bocce-ball
• Jogging trail
• Darts
• Giant chessboard
• Tennis/tennis clinics*
• Board games
• Yoga/Stretching
• Aerobics
• Beach football
• Dance lessons
• Cocktail and cooking lessons
• Rum tasting
• Spanish lessons
• Ocean Trampoline
• Baseball cage
• Archery &pistol ranges
• Inflatable climbing iceberg
• Beach Olympics
• Mexican bingo
• Dominican Market – fine handicrafts, hand-made jewelry and more
• Theatre with live entertainment
• Themed nights
• Casino
• Water aerobics
• Kayaks
• Windsurfing
• Snorkeling
• Catamarans
• Introductory scuba classes in the pool
• Hobie Cats

Rooms

Dreams Flora Punta Cana has 620 guest rooms and suites with a wide assortment of layouts and amenities. If possible get a honeymoon suite aka a Preferred Club Master Two-Bedroom Suite Tropical or Partial Ocean View. All the suites have patios overlooking the beach. These suites are huge.

They do have some swim-out rooms that open up directly to a pool. I prefer rooms like this, so thought it was worth mentioning.

Check current rates!

If you are looking for a fun activity to do while you are in Punta Cana check out Scape Park.

Other Resorts in Dominican Republic:

Dream Onyx Punta Cana All-Inclusive Vacation

Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana

Margaritaville Cap Cana Island Reserve

Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa an Adults-Only Paradise

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Jewel Palm Beach Punta Cana appeared first on Mommy Travels.