You may think of tropical getaways as romantic interludes for couples only, but many all inclusive resorts actually cater to families, with special activities that allow children to have a memorable vacation – and that allow parents some special one on one time, as well. Here are some tips to getting a good value on your next all-inclusive family vacation.

Why consider all-inclusive?

All-inclusive tours can really help you save money, and they can help busy parents to relax. Most all-inclusive resort vacations include beverages, meals, taxes, entertainment, activities, and even gratuities in the price of your accommodations, so you can just relax and enjoy yourself.

Is an all-inclusive vacation right for your family?

An all-inclusive vacation may mean spending less for your vacation – or it may mean spending more. It all depends on your traveling style.

An all-inclusive vacation may not be for you if your family enjoys doing a lot of independent adventuring and exploring because you’ll be paying for these additional things in addition to your all inclusive rates.

If your kids are excited to try new adventures in a new place, and you tend to get stressed out every time you need to pay for yet another thing on your vacation, you might particularly appreciate the all-inclusive travel experience.

Choosing the right all-inclusive

The best thing to do when you are first starting out is to ask your family and friends about any all inclusive resorts that they have particularly enjoyed. The experiences at these so-called tropical paradises can vary greatly, and it’s difficult to get the information you need from a brochure or a corporate website. Talk to people about recommendations and spend some time combing through travel websites, agent advice and reviews (by travelers) of different resorts.

Travelling with your kids

When you are traveling with kids, it’s a good idea to look for a good discount (by traveling during an off peak time, for example) at a quality, well-known resort – rather than securing a cheap regular rate at a place you’ve never heard of. Its one thing to be stuck somewhere you would rather not be stuck – but when you have young kids with you, you want to keep any ghastly surprises to a minimum.

Also, make sure that the activities included at the resort will be of interest to your children. Some children love the resorts “kids’ clubs,” which often provide great educational and cultural activities for all different age groups (and they give the parents some time alone). But some children may be wary of joining new kids and new caregivers in a new place. You want to make sure to keep everyone’s needs in mind when you are planning such a trip.

How do you get started?

Research and give yourself many options to pick from and see what the different resorts offer.  Once you’ve narrowed down your options of family friendly resorts to just a few, it is important to read all the fine print. Find out exactly which activities and attractions are paid for at the resort, and which are not. Some packages offer free fares to children; others offer discounts. Sometimes, kids stay and eat for free. Sometimes, you’ll find kid clubs are included in the price, but nannies and babysitters are not included. It’s important to be very clear with the inclusions and exclusions so you are sure you are comparing resorts fairly.

Two good websites to check reviews from recent guests are:

www.tripadvisor.com
www.debbiescaribbeanresortreviews.com

and also check out the resort website.

Traveling often comes with hidden charges, and savvy travelers are aware of them ahead of time. See if you will be paying any additional airport charges, governmental travel fees, security fees, airport fees, shuttle fees, and so on. If you aren’t sure what exactly the price includes, pick up the phone and double check before booking

Researching will really pay off!  An all inclusive family vacation is best planned far in advance. Get the brochures and start looking.

Peace of mind

Choosing that perfect vacation can be very stressful, especially if you are paying for it yourself online.  Here at Gaudet Family Travel we pride ourselves in personalized service.  We will work together with you to find the perfect vacationing spot at a price within your budget.  Gaudet Family Travel encourages you to get online and see what’s out there. Then you can talk to us about the different options and the features and activities that you want to make sure you’re all inclusive vacation includes.  There are a lot of unknowns and we can help you cover everything.

For my clients everything I quote them included the full package.  The bonus is that our price is the same as what you would pay on-line.  The hidden truth is that everybody pays the same price – the difference is the service.

Spending extra time making the right choice on where to stay will make all the different in your vacation experience.  Whether you want to lounge by the pool, or have an all out family adventure, we will be able to find a resort that will cater to your families needs. Then all you need to do is pack your bags and get ready to relax.

Quick Thoughts On How To Decide:

• Decide on a destination
• Resort amenities and programs to fit your lifestyle
• Look at the location ( on beach , near towns)
• Look at the list of resort amenities and see what is included and what cost extra
• Check number of restaurants and see what is included for dining
• Kids club and ages
• Check layout of the accommodations
• Check start rating
• Narrow down your choices and consult with friends who have traveled
• Check the reviews

Now that you’re off to the DR, get ready to relax or is it to play.  In preparing, if you are only read one thing, read and that this Inside Scoop with your documents.  It’s packed with tip to pave your way to fun!

Whether a family vacations or a singles getaway to enjoy water sports, `the DR provided grat value with lots to keep you busy.  Or not.  An international destination (check out the racy Europeans swimsuits), it offers a great mix from relaxing beach days to exciting excursions.

Tips:

• Plan ahead of seal selection and plan a transition day before and after – while often necessary if an airline changes a flight, you’ll benefit by slowly down.
• Be realistic; we know you want value for money in balancing choices and amenities, but no matter what your budget, aim to relax and enjoy.  Special requests are requests only, e.g. ocean view suite, these are premium (but ask for free upgrades when you get there!)
• Take a valid passport
• Electrical service is 110 volts (60 hertz). Voltage irregularities are common in the country;  use surge protectors for appliances and computers (but who takes those)
• Telephones are widely available at resorts and the DR has a good cell phone and internet access.  Check with your cell phone provider about roaming charges, safety and privacy.
• The currency is the Dominican peso; Canadian and US bills are accepted at most tourist places (and often preferred).  Only change money at the bank or the resort.  Major credit cards and travellers cheques are accepted in major tourist areas. While ATM`s are in cities and most resorts, they aren’t everywhere. For security , log the dates you’ll be away with your credit card company
• The DR enjoys was tropical weather year-round with the average temperatures 77-87F 25-30C and an average day may see full sun or a sun cloud mix.
• The local time zone is Eastern Caribbean Time, known in North America as Atlantic time Zone, 1 hours ahead of Toronto
• Easter Holy Week is observed with some resort restrictions on tours and motorized water sports.  Alcohol might not be served outside the resort area.
• We strongly recommend medical and cancellation insurance.  The best insurance is your credit card company, but if you do not have any Gaudet Family Travel can get you what you require for your trip.
• Travel with a positive attitude – with extra security as past of travel, having patience and a spirit of adventure will carry you through any experience!

Shopping & Tours

Some of the best deals include amber and the beautiful laminar – a semi-precious stone found only in the DR (that will remind you of the sea).  Gold, cigars and rum are also good buys; check Canadian customs allowances.  If you want to buy something from beach and street vendors, ask how much the item is, off half and bargain from there, but don’t haggle just for fun, vendors make their living from tourists.  If you love nature tours, there are many available for adults, teens and kids including bird watching, mountain biking, hiking, eco adventures, rafting and kite boarding.

When you arrive!

After clearing customs, if on a charter (your counsellor will confirm), meet your rep outside the baggage area for the bus to your hotel.  Others might say they’ll drive you and you’ll be reimbursed–not true! Before you get on, check luggage to ensure it’s secure and loaded on your bus. The bus may drop travellers at other resorts– it’s a great way to see other properties. You’ll be advised of the time/place for your orientation meeting–don’t miss it. The tour rep works part-time at your hotel (and other resorts) during

posted hours. Since others are leaving, rooms are often not ready when you arrive, but start on the fun. If you’ve packed a swimsuit in your carry-on

or can shed clothes, head to the pool or beach. Your hotel’s front desk will hold luggage. If you see something broken or unacceptable in your

room, notify the front desk. Many banks and stores close in the afternoon, but most hotels exchange money. Take your passport to cash travellers

cheques; many merchants want to see photo ID with credit cards. Keep your passport in your in-room safe or hotel’s safety deposit box.

When you’re there!

Enjoy local food and drink, in moderation: sun and alcohol don’t mix. Avoid uncooked food and food from street vendors. Due to rabies, avoid street animals (much of the first Jurassic Park movie was made in the DR). Drink purified/ bottled water and wash your hands often.  Ice at the resorts is safe but check with your tour rep. Many travellers go to the beach early to “reserve” beach chairs with towels: don’t leave valuables or swap

chairs already taken. Beach towels are at the hotels; to reduce loss, sometimes a deposit is charged, returned on your departure.  Water is a precious commodity:  when people leave the beach to get ready for dinner, expect reduced water pressure/ hot water; just return earlier. Avoid timeshare sales: there’s no “free” lunch. If you book tours, make sure you can handle them: no Advanced Scuba diving if you can’t swim. For local nightlife, go with others and return to your resort.

What to do…what to do…

There’s so much offered in the DR: while beaches are a main attraction, get out of the sun for a different kind of fun. If you book excursions through your counsellor (less cash needed onsite), you’re guaranteed a spot, can budget in advance and avoid “fly-by-night” operators. Otherwise, purchase tours only from companies at the hotel or the local rep. While attractions differ depending on your locale, there are many ways to be busy.   Swim with dolphins, sharks or stingrays (stingers removed). Hike and bike jungles,

lagoons and caves. Explore the underworld of coral, reefs and tropical fish with  scuba diving and snorkelling.   Saddle up for horse riding on a mountain or coastal trail: from beginner to challenging, or take a wild safari outback trip (cold drinks included).   Fore! If you golf, the DR speaks your lingo with challenging and gorgeous courses such as Teeth of the Dog and Playa Grande.   For other suggestions, see www.godominicanrepublic.com

The international language of courtesy

Delays and cancellations are all part of travelling. Indeed a slower pace of life is guaranteed in the DR: enjoy it! All countries have customs and although paying, you’re a guest– don’t expect that everyone speaks English. Just as visitors to Canada don’t expect you to be fluent in their language, learn a few words in Spanish for your visit. Tread lightly–on holiday

we’re all more casual, but littering and cigarette butts are unwelcome everywhere. When you brush your teeth, don’t run the water until rinsing. Most staff works long hours, a smile, patience and a kind word can take you a long way!

When you leave

Do a room sweep for belongings. If you leave clothes or gifts for a staff member, leave a note as s/he’ll need it to pass hotel security: clothes for children, toiletries and school supplies are welcome. Although there’s usually a noon check-out, you may be able to pay a late fee, or pack what you need for those few hours and check your luggage with the hotel.

Before you purchase wooden items, check for worm holes: if so, your item will be confiscated at customs. Do not buy or accept anything suspect or that may be taken from you at customs such as plants, narcotics, meat/animal products or endangered species parts.

Packing List

• a valid passport for each person
• copies: passport, travellers cheques,
• ID, cancellation/medical insurance
• itinerary/contact info to home contact
• if a solo parent, notarized letter from other parent allowing trip
• credit cards/cash, travellers cheques, fanny pack for these & passports
• medications, e.g. for Montezuma’s Revenge
• prescriptions, glasses
• mosquito/bug repellent, after bite topical
• toiletries, personal hygiene, face cloth
• laundry soap, facial tissues, ear plugs
• hat, sweater/jacket, swimsuit/cover-up
• books, magazines, travel games
• notebook/pens, flip flops, first aid kit
• for kids; a few favourite toys
• women: dressy outfit; men: shirt/dress
• pants & jacket
• sandals, comfy shoes
• camera, extra film or memory card
• binoculars, sunglasses, sunscreen
• address list for postcards/emails
• small gifts for resort staff/room maids
• sports equipment, flashlight/batteries
• Your sense of adventure & humour!

Delighting in the spirit of adventure- a vacation from home to explore places that are not your home – knowing life is different there and knowing this is a point of travel — enjoying the journey, not just the destination – a privilege best used with patience, humour and curiosity – fun — coming home with great tales to tell!!!