When summer hits full swing, it’s your job to change your kids’ cries from “Mom, I’m bored” to “It’s the best summer ever!” Leave the worry of planning to the experts and choose an all-inclusive vacation that presents sun and sea along with all the details taken care of for you. After all, you deserve a vacation too. Fly to Runaway Bay, Jamaica, where they take all-inclusive to the next level, or drive down to Galveston, where you can board the all-new Carnival Magic and sail away.
By Car: Galveston, TX
What to Do
The Carnival Magic is the newest in the Carnival Dream class and pushes off from Galveston for Caribbean cruises that are worthy of the name. The magic begins in the Sports Square, a recreational area that has every sports-oriented activity imaginable – volleyball, basketball, foosball, ping-pong and mini golf. The first-ever ropes course at sea soars above the colorful Sports Square, giving you amazing views and a great adrenaline rush if you dare. You can slip around the two waterslides and water features of Waterworks, or dive in for a movie and a swim at the Seaside Theatre. You’ll want to check out Camp Carnival, where kids can enjoy all the fun of summer camp designed just for them. With the kids happily off on their own adventures, you can steal away to the adults-only Serenity Deck for some relaxation and the best views on the ship.
800/764-7419; carnival.com/magic
Where to Stay
With so many activities on board, you might not spend much time in your room, but when you do, you’ll discover everything your family needs. The most appealing option is the two bathrooms and five-berth staterooms that are some of the roomiest at sea and boast plenty of storage space. A majority of the rooms aboard the Magic have an ocean view, and every room has integrated entertainment systems that allow you to check the daily schedule and meals right from your cabin. Kids will be thrilled to hurry back to their stateroom each evening to see the creative towel sculptures that have been crafted while they were at dinner.
Where to Eat
With so many options on board, you can find everyone’s favorites and never eat the same thing twice. You won’t be disappointed with the never-ending buffets and elegant table dining service, but the Magic also offers some unusual restaurants at sea. Cucina del Capitano pays homage to the Italian ties of the Carnival Cruise fleet and serves up family-style recipes from the Italian captains’ childhoods. Hearty portions of pasta served in rustic sauces are the highlight of the menu, but selections of seafood and short ribs are also available.
By Plane: Runaway Bay, Jamaica
What to Do
When they promise everything is included, they really mean everything – even a vacation nanny assigned to each family. Franklyn D. Resort and Spa sits on a small private beach in Runaway Bay and epitomizes a no-fuss family vacation that gives everyone a chance to relax in the lush Jamaican plantation house atmosphere. The resort caters specifically to families, so you’ll have no problem finding activities to suit every age and interest. Children’s programs are at the heart of the resort, so you can expect to find everything from tie-dye parties to cultural crafts and sandcastle building lessons. Of course, your nanny can accompany your kids to any activity you choose, giving you an opportunity to check out the spa or relax on the beach. Water is all around you, and you can try everything from kayaking and glass-bottom boat rides to snorkeling and swimming in the three resort pools. Adventurers will want to check out the scuba diving opportunities at the resort, which include a Bubblemaker’s program for kids 8 and up. All the activities are included, so be sure to try them all.
800/654-1337; fdrholidays.com
Where to Stay
Family-friendly vacationing begins with your lodging, and you’ll find that every detail has been met with families in mind. Each of the 78 suites on the property provides an ocean view with separate living and dining areas and a fully stocked kitchen. Upon arrival, you’ll see that your refrigerator has been filled with fruit, juices, yogurt and other snack foods. Your nanny will keep the refrigerator stocked so you can find your favorite when the afternoon munchies hit. Suites can be booked with up to three bedrooms, so you’ll find plenty of room for your whole family to spread out.
Where to Eat
The Franklyn D. Resort offers so many appealing dining options that it will be hard to choose. Kids will be thrilled to learn that there is a restaurant designed just for them. Favorites such as spaghetti and PBJ sandwiches are offered at a buffet that is just the right height for smaller travelers. With plates loaded, children can join their parents in the Verandah Restaurant, where French and Jamaican specialties are served overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Of course, parents need a little something special while on vacation too, so the Pier Restaurant offers gourmet Italian fare in an adults-only luxury setting by the sea.
