No Roads, No Towns, No Connectivity: Families Focus on Nature and Whitewater Rafting the Green River in Utah’s Desolation Canyon

Western River Expeditions’ offers a 5 Day Desolation Canyon family rafting vacation on the Green River.

SALT LAKE CITY –  Utah’s Desolation Canyon, carved over millennia by the 730-mile Green River that is spawned by glacial melts on the Continental Divide in the wilds of northern Wyoming, is one of the most remote (no roads, no towns, no cell or data service) destinations in the continental United States. It also tops the list when it comes to family rafting vacations.

From June 1 through Aug. 8, a small plane transports guests from Moab, Utah, on a scenic, 40-minute flight to a desert plateau overlooking the Green River where after a short hike, Western River Expeditions’ 5 Day Desolation Canyon family rafting vacation begins.

The Green is less strident than the Grand Canyon’s rollicking Colorado River. Instead of the world-class rapids on the Colorado, whitewater on the Green is playful, marked by over 60 warm-water Class I-III rapids, packed with more than enough splash to elicit excitement for ages 5 and up.

While paddling on the Green, guests typically surrender their senses to twisted mountains, dramatic cliffs, and towering plateaus carved by an ancient inland sea. Rates are $1,645 for ages 16 and up and $1,025 for ages 5-15 including…

• exploring 88 river miles
• the option to paddle two-person inflatable kayaks
• or, relax in a guide-powered oar boat
• witnessing 40 million years of geologic history
• maneuvering 60+ fun-filled Class I-III rapids. One of the greatest features of this expedition is that the rapids are spread fairly evenly throughout the length of the trip so the action keeps it exciting all journey long.
• visiting famous Wild West outlaw hideouts. Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch found that the rugged terrain here offered a perfect hideaway.
• wondering about the past at now-derelict homesteads built of native materials
• getting to know an ancient culture that both foraged and planted corn from the 7th to the 13th centuries, leaving behind Fremont Native American petroglyphs
• hiking off-river with a seasoned guide well-versed in the region’s history and geology
• deluxe camping on broad, sandy beaches along the river bank
• enjoying host-prepared adult and children’s meals sourced from local farmers and producers
• sunbathing on and off the water shaded by ancient cottonwoods
• watching a Trip Jester entertain the children so parents have some down time

On its journey south through Utah towards the confluence with the Colorado River in Canyonlands National Park, the Green has created such an unforgettable universe that Desolation Canyon has been singled out as a National Register of Historic Places.

Calling this “the ultimate, back-country family river trip,” Jason Taylor, an operations manager who oversees all of Western River Expeditions’ trips in Utah, noted that the five-day program is appropriate for children as young as 5. It’s also a great river trip for extended families and first-time rafters. Five guides are assigned to trips that accommodate up to 25.

One plus that families come to love is the fact that in this remote environment cell and data service are non-existent. Instead of connecting to electronic devices, the connection is with family, guides and other guests. Children focus on the designated Trip Jester who, in a fun and informative way, shares insights with kids of all ages into this world of wonder. Creative games, swimming, arts and crafts are all part of the fun.

While some time- and career-stressed parents may have difficulty connecting with their own children, Taylor said that by trip’s end, they’re melding with their families and creating stronger family bonds and memories.

“We see children transform from being needy and whiney to independent and happy. Everybody grows on this trip. In fact, this truly is the perfect family vacation. Some families come back every couple of years,” he said.

For more details on this trip see https://www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2018 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit http://www.westernriver.com/.

Western River Expeditions is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. From March through October, the operatort escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its Moab Adventure Center division (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the “Best of State” award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for fourteen consecutive years (2004-2017).

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Free Hotel Nights Promotion This Summer in The Palm Beaches

The AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa has an award-winning 42,000 square foot Eau Spa, three Har-Tru tennis courts, two oceanfront pools, a fitness center and exciting kids and teens programs © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Discover The Palm Beaches (DTPB), the tourism marketing organization for Palm Beach County, has unveiled its highly-anticipated “Free Nights” hotel promotion for Summer 2018. For a limited time, 13 hotels are offering guests a free night, while prices start from about $115 to $700 per night – a savings of almost 50 percent compared to winter rates for some of the participating properties. This diverse collection of hotels and resorts provides travelers of nearly any budget an opportunity to enjoy the wealth of experiences available throughout The Palm Beaches.

“Visitors will find our legendary luxury experiences at an exceptional value during the summer,” said Jorge Pesquera, president and CEO of DTPB. “You’ll find the best vacation experiences in affordable packages – so we invite you to discover how this outstanding travel destination offers amazing value for getaways or memorable family events.”

Free-Night Promotions

The following hotels and resorts are offering free-night promotions, with a free extra night added to a stay at regular rates. Details pertaining to each offer are as follows:

• Best Western Palm Beach Lakes Inn — West Palm Beach, Florida

A part of West Palm Beach’s history for 50 years, this classic Florida hotel has hosted Elvis and Marilyn Monroe. Conveniently located across the street from the Palm Beach Outlets, this hotel features a tropical pool and courtyard, gazebo, waterfall, and meditation garden.

• • An Extra Night for Tropical Fun: Stay three nights at the hotel’s regular rate, and the fourth night is free. Available from May 1 – September 30, 2018. To book, call 561-683-8810, ext. 452.
• Boca Raton Resort & Club – Boca Raton, Florida

One of the country’s premier resort destinations and private club facilities, the Boca Raton Resort & Club features amenities including a half-mile stretch of private beach at the Boca Beach Club, Spa Palazzo, two 18-hole championship golf courses and the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, the Resort’s tennis program, full-service 32-slip marina, seven swimming pools, three state-of-the-art fitness centers, and a variety of water sports.

• • Another Day in Paradise: Book best available rate for three nights, and the fourth night is complimentary for summer arrivals (including July 4^th and Labor Day Weekend). Available through October 31, 2018. This offer must be booked 60 days before arrival. To book, use the promo code “PBADPA” at www.BocaResort.com. The complimentary fourth night is reflected in the daily room rate for this promo code as 25% off the room rate, per night, for four consecutive nights.
• The Brazilian Court Hotel — Palm Beach, Florida

Just steps from Worth Avenue and the Atlantic Ocean, The Brazilian Court is a historic landmark infused throughout with Roaring ’20s glamour. Guests can savor the cuisine of internationally acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud at Café Boulud, enjoy pampering at the world-renowned Frederic Fekkai Salon & Spa, or relax by the secluded, palm-fringed pool.

• • One More Night in Tropical Boutique Style: Stay two nights, and the third night is free, or stay three nights, and the fourth night is free. Available May 1 – September 30, 2018. When booking, savings is included in rate. To book, call 561-655-7740. 

• The Breakers — Palm Beach, Florida

Ready to revel in the sunshine? Once you stay, you’ll understand. And once you start saving, you’ll want to stay longer. Founded on the sands of Palm Beach in 1896, The Breakers is known for its gracious staff and seaside glamour. Amenities geared to families include a 6,100-square-foot Family Entertainment Center and interactive playground, Camp Breakers for kids ages 3 – 12, poolside bungalows for daytime rental, and a roster of daily activities designed for guests of all ages. While here, guests also receive complimentary daily benefits-including free daily breakfast, kids’ menu meals for ages 12 and under, unlimited golf, and more (applicable to guests booked at prevailing regular rates. Not available to groups).

• • Sixth Night Free: Sixth night free when you stay six consecutive nights in a Premium Guest Room category or higher. Available May 1 – October 31, 2018 (some restrictions may apply). This offer is combinable with the Complimentary Daily Benefits, including free daily breakfast and much more. To book, visit www.TheBreakers.com.
• Casa Grandview — West Palm Beach, Florida

If you seek one of those “out of the way” hideaways off the beaten path, for ultimate privacy and relaxation, discover the best in South Florida hospitality at Casa Grandview. As a AAA 4-Diamond historic property, this boutique hotel offers a luxurious, but casual, tropical Florida atmosphere.

• • Free Night in a Vacation Rental: Sixth night free when you stay six consecutive nights in an Art Deco Apartment, Nola or Savannah Apartment. Available June 1 – October 31, 2018. This offer is based on availability, and certain restrictions may apply. To book, reserve online at https://casagrandview.com with the promo code “SUMMER”.
  • Fun-Filled Family Vacation with a Free Night: Receive one night free when you book a new stay of seven or more nights. Available June 1 – October 31, 2018. To book, reserve online at https://casagrandview.com with the promo code “FV2”.
• The Chesterfield Palm Beach — Palm Beach, Florida

Recognized as a historical landmark by the Palm Beach Preservation Foundation, this glorious boutique hotel combines modern Florida sophistication with old-world English elegance. Its indulgent amenities include a tranquil outdoor swimming pool, a wood-paneled library, and the legendary Leopard Lounge & Restaurant, which features exciting international cuisine, creative cocktails, and live music.

• • 3 Nights for the Price of 2: Stay a little longer in one of the hotel’s unique rooms or suites, offering as much unrestrained luxury as you need. Every third night you stay is free. Offer applies to all room types. Maximum of 3 free nights/9 nights total. Available through December 31, 2018. To book, call 561-659-5800 or 800-243-7871.

• Delray Sands Resort — Highland Beach, Florida

Nestled between Boca Raton and Delray Beach, Delray Sands combines the intimacy of a boutique hotel with resort-style amenities in an oceanfront setting. Families will appreciate the separate children’s pool and proximity to Palm Beach’s top attractions, including shopping and entertainment at Mizner Park and Delray’s Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens.

• • Have an Extra Night Beachfront: Stay two nights, and the third night is free. Available from May 1-September 30, 2018, excluding weekends. To book, call 866-943-0950.

• Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa — Manalapan, Florida

Situated on a secluded private beach on seven acres of the Atlantic coast with breathtaking ocean views and lush tropical gardens, the AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa was recognized as Florida’s top resort in 2015 and 2016 for the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. After being greeted with a glass of champagne upon check-in, guests are escorted to spacious accommodations designed by Jonathan Adler featuring private balconies with hanging chairs to enjoy ocean views. The resort’s many amenities include the Forbes Five-Star, award-winning 42,000 square foot Eau Spa, three Har-Tru tennis courts, two oceanfront pools, a fitness center and exciting kids and teens programs.

• • More Beach Time with a Free Night: Stay three nights in an Ocean View Room category or higher, and the fourth night is complimentary. Available from May 1-31, 2018. To book, call 800-328-0170.

• Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham West Palm Beach — West Palm Beach, Florida

Rooms at this family-friendly hotel, which is convenient to I-95 and steps from the Palm Beach Outlets, include separate living rooms, full kitchenettes, full size refrigerator, dishwasher, two burner cook-top range and two 42″ LCD TV’s. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor pool and a free bike-share program.

• • Fourth Night Free: Stay three nights at regular rates, and the fourth night is free. Available May 1 – September 30, 2018, based on availability. To book, call 561-472-7000, ext. 723, and ask for booking code “LKCC”.

• Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa — Jupiter, Florida

In addition to its tropical beachfront location, Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa is the home of two award-winning restaurants, an oceanfront pool, hot tub and state-of-the-art fitness center. Family-friendly activities range from basketball and tennis to movie nights to Sea Turtle Walks with local experts.

• • More Time to Explore Jupiter: Stay two nights, and the third night is free. Available through December 20, 2018. To book, call 877-389-0571.

• PGA National Resort & Spa — Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

This AAA four-diamond resort not only has a 28-year legacy of hosting prestigious golf events including the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic and the Ryder Cup, but also offers guests a world-class spa, state-of-the-art sports and racquet club along with an outstanding array of gourmet dining experiences.

• • More Time for Spa and Golf: Stay two nights, and the third night is free. Available through September 30, 2018. To book, visit http://www.pgaresort.com and use the promo code, “DIS3FR”.

• Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa — Palm Beach, Florida

Discover breathtaking oceanfront views with a contemporary twist at Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa. Poised between the Atlantic Ocean and palatial Palm Beach mansions, our contemporary exterior harbors guest rooms and suites that are equally exotic. Outside, choose between the serenity of the ocean steps away, or the private pool & cabanas.

• • Free Night Oceanfront in Palm Beach: Book best available rate for three nights, and the fourth night is free. Available through September 30, 2018, excluding arrivals on Wednesdays, subject to availability. To book, visit www.tidelineresort.com or call 561-540-6440.
• Wyndham Grand Jupiter At Harbourside Place — Jupiter, Florida

Edging Jupiter’s Intracoastal Waterway, the Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place is surrounded by distinctive dining, shopping, and entertainment. After a refreshing night’s sleep in plush, signature bedding, guests can enjoy a swim in the sparkling rooftop pool, then lounge poolside with a hand-crafted cocktail, while soaking up the views and gentle breezes.

• • Another Night to Do More in Jupiter: Stay three nights, and the fourth night is free. Available May 1 – September 30, 2018. To book, visit http://www.wyndhamgrandjupiter.com and use promo code “H4NF25”.

Discover The Palm Beaches, formerly the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau, is the official tourism marketing corporation that promotes the collection of 39 cities and towns commonly referred to as “The Palm Beaches,” which spans more than 2,300 square miles and 47 miles of pristine, golden beaches from Boca Raton to Jupiter and Tequesta. Tourism is among Palm Beach County’s major industries, generating $4.7 billion in direct visitor spending and supporting 70,000 jobs with an economic impact of about $7 billion. Once recognized as a tropical escape for elite travelers in the late 1800s, America’s First Resort Destination® is making its resurgence as The Best Way To Experience Florida®, welcoming a record 7,890,000 people in 2017. The Palm Beaches are home to nearly 17,000 hotel rooms, ranging from historic resorts to boutique inns. The destination features more than 100 family-friendly attractions, world-class luxury and antique shopping experiences, 125 miles of peaceful waterways for on- or in-the-water activities, more than 150 artificial reefs that line the Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf Stream current, 160 golf courses, award-winning restaurants and a thriving entertainment scene boasting more than 200 art and culture organizations.

Situated along I-95, The Palm Beaches are also home to Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), with more than 200 daily direct flights to 27 domestic and international destinations in the United States and Canada. The Palm Beaches are also conveniently located next to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood and Miami International airports, each one only an hour away. In addition, with the new Brightline train, transportation into The Palm Beaches from Fort Lauderdale is even faster and more convenient – with connections to Miami and Orlando coming soon.

For more information about The Palm Beaches, visit www.ThePalmBeaches.com and connect on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @PalmBeachesFL, YouTube at Discover The Palm Beaches and the hashtag #ThePalmBeaches. Tune-in to The Palm Beaches TV for 24/7 streaming content of the destination’s hotels, attractions, restaurants and experiences.

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Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Colorado Rockies offers Kids Stay & Play free package for summer

The Colorado Rocky Mountains are the perfect destination during the summer months, with warm days, cool nights, lots of sunshine and plenty of adventures for the entire family. Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) is the perfect jumping off point for summer family fun, thanks to family-focused lodging packages, dining options and adventures designed to maximize the travel budget while ensuring everyone has the time of their lives.

CBMR is offering a value-minded Kids Stay & Play FREE package: children under the age of 18 stay for free and all family members on the reservation receive a free single scenic lift ride ticket to experience the mountain.  The package is available at all CBMR Properties, including The Grand Lodge, the Lodge at Mountaineer Square and the Elevation Hotel & Spa, all conveniently located at the base of the mountain.

The Grand Lodge features the resort’s largest outdoor pool and hot tub, an on-site family-friendly restaurant, and the Wildflower Spa. Looking for a bit more space?  Book the Kids Stay & Play FREE package at the Elevation Hotel & Spa or the Lodge at Mountaineer Square and CBMR will sweeten the deal with 50% off lodging upgrades on selected room types.

For the past few years, CBMR has been focused on adding new summer activities to enhance the experience for the entire family. Summer activities at the resort now include the Adventure Park, featuring a climbing wall with an auto-belay system, bungee trampolines, and the Flying Gopher Miniature Golf Course – 18-holes of a true Crested Butte experience.

A new adventure added this year is the Crested Butte Zip Line Tour.  The guided tour, which debuts in June 2011, includes five zip lines, ranging from 200-380 feet, and a series of features, such as a suspension bridge, a “Burma Bridge” and a net climb. The Crested Butte Zip Line Tour is available during the summer and winter seasons; the resort will offer the only guided zip line tour at a Colorado ski resort, and one of the only winter canopy tour operations in the state.

The resort is also home to the Evolution Bike Park, which features over 25 miles of single track cross country and downhill trails designed to allow riders of all abilities to progress and improve their bike handling skills. The park experience begins at the Crested Butte Rental & Demo Center, where riders can choose from a full fleet of Specialized® rental bikes. The Crested Butte Rental & Demo Center also has pedal-less bikes made by Specialized® that are designed to teach young riders the basics of balance while learning to ride. The resort offers a variety of lesson packages, many including bike rental. Lessons are available in both two-hour and four-hour increments.

If Mom and Dad need a little time to themselves, the resort offers kids’ day camp for children ages 3 through 14. Camp CB pairs quality childcare with fun, outdoor activities allowing kids to create their own memorable summertime experiences. For older kids – tweens and teens – the Camp CB Summer Adventure program combines outdoor mountain activities, Adventure Park access and summer sports with various educational themes. For the youngest adventurers, the Camp CB Nursery is the ideal location for children ages 2 months – 3 years old.

Families also have the opportunity to explore the Trailhead Children’s Discovery Museum, located in the base area. The museum offers educational fun with exhibits such as the Dig Pit, The Trail Lab, The Pirate Ship Theater and many more.

Family fun in the mountains also includes rafting, horseback riding, The Adaptive Sports Center’s Ropes Course or hiking in some of the wilderness areas that surround Crested Butte.   The spectacular wildflowers throughout the fields, mountains, and valleys gave the area its official title of “Wildflower Capital of Colorado”. Also plan to take a stroll through downtown Crested Butte with its Victorian storefronts, old coal-mining influences, and quirky small-town character.

When it’s time to fuel up, head to the base area or to town for kid-friendly favorites. The resort offers a great family atmosphere at 9380, the restaurant located slopeside in the Elevation Hotel & Spa. Patio seating is perfect on a warm summer day and 9380 offers a variety of options suited to all tastes. Plan to experience downtown Crested Butte in the evenings, where the restaurant options are almost endless. Families love The Secret Stash, a gourmet pizza joint where kids – and adults – can sit on the floor while they enjoy out-of-this-world options. Also check out Izzy’s for breakfast or lunch, to try a homemade bagel or potato latke.  Another great place with lots of options at very reasonable prices is the Last Steep. Try the Curry Shrimp & Coconut Salad or the Fish Tacos, alfresco.

Crested Butte is a community that loves festivals, concerts, and parties.  For family focused events, visit during the Crested Butte Music Festival’s Bluegrass in Paradise weekend, July 5-10, with twelve bands performing over the weekend and an expanded Bluegrass Kids Camp for ages 7 to 17 on July 5 – 8.  For those interested in the arts, the Crested Butte Arts Festival is taking place August 6 & 7, with 175 artists of all kinds exhibiting their work.  The festival has added Art Alley, where budding artists (ages two+) are invited to participate in hands-on art activities that mimic the mediums of the exhibiting artists. All projects are free and kids can take home their own works of art.  Also, every Monday and Wednesday through the months of July and August, free concerts are held downtown at the Crested Butte Art Center and in the resort’s base area.

Summertime is the ideal time to slow down, relax and reconnect with the family in Crested Butte.  There are endless options for adventure – for young and old, a tempting variety of events (guests will find something going on nearly every weekend), and incredible value thanks to packages like CBMR’s Kids Stay & Play FREE. For information or to book this great summer package visit www.skicb.com or call (800) 600-2803 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            (800) 600-2803      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte consists of a small historic town that remains true to its heritage and radiates an unparalleled welcoming and inviting spirit that celebrates a simpler life and time, and the mountain resort. Thanks to a widely diverse landscape, whether beginner or burgeoning national champion, outdoor enthusiasts of all levels will find a new challenge with each visit, from world-class mountain biking, to legendary skiing and snowboarding, to a secluded fly-fishing experience.

For more information about Crested Butte’s lodging, conference, meeting facilities, and special packages, call Crested Butte Vacations, (800) 600-2803 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            (800) 600-2803      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit the web site at www.skicb.com.  For information on ski area real estate opportunities call (970) 349-4999 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            (970) 349-4999      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or (877) 805-6109 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            (877) 805-6109      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit the website at www.cbliving.com.

Not Your Typical Family Summer Vacation

With the school year winding down, the question weighing on many a parent’s mind is, “What am I going to do with them for three months?” Here are some intriguing friendly locations you might not have thought of:

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa

Where: Chiang Rai, Thailand

What: Elephant Camp

Why: Kids eight years and older can learn how to care for the endangered Thai Asian elephants at Elephant Camp under the tutelage of skilled mahouts who will teach them how to feed, bathe, and ride these gentle giants.  Guests can contribute to helping their elephants with a donation to the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, Anantara Golden Triangle’s charity.

Summer Perk: Summer is, contrary to popular belief, a lovely time to visit Northern Thailand, as the short bursts of rain cool the air and keep the flora lush and green. And there are deals to be had and far less tourists to contend with!

Rates: Anantara Golden Triangle offers a special Mahout Discovery package that includes accommodation in a room with daily breakfast and a three-day mahout training course. Rates for this special package begin at $402/night (not inclusive of taxes) for a Deluxe Room, double occupancy (children under 12 sharing a room with parents are free of charge and receive 50% off the daily breakfast).

Jakes

Where: Treasure Beach, Jamaica

What: Caribbean fun

Why: Kids have a variety of activities, such as a mosaic tile workshop led by the artist who is largely responsible for the unique mosaic design found throughout the property as well as watercolor painting classes. There are interactive cooking lessons to teach aspiring young chefs Jamaican cuisine, trips to stunning waterfalls where kids can jump from a rope swing Tarzan-style into the water, and Farm Tours where they follow the food from farm to table.

Summer Perk: Book four nights at Jakes and receive the fifth night free.

Rates: Starting at $95 per night

Shakti

Where: Ladakh, India

What: Little ones in Little Tibet

Why: Outfitter of bespoke village walking tours, Shakti introduces children to snow-crested landscapes untouched by Western influence through a culturally-sensitive tour replete with colonial-style creature comforts. Guides lead guests on walks and activities such as monastery visits, rafting, and sightseeing between Himalayan villages, while porters supply day packs with lunches.* Families retire to Shakti’s fully staffed (and thoughtfully renovated) homes rented from villagers. Kids as young as six will love riding the region’s indigenous two-humped camels, while older ones may prefer to raft the Upper Indus, one of the great rivers of India.

Summer Perk: The weather is consistently sunny and dry on this high altitude plateau.

Rates: A seven-night walk with customizable itinerary and luxury homestead accommodations starts at $530 per night/per person, based on two to three adults, including meals, activities, guides, and ground transportation. A two-night Shayok River Rafting Journey offers ‘glamping’ in luxe-bedded tents; Western-style loos and showers is an optional add-on. Children between three and 16 will pay 50% of the adult rate.

White Elephant Hotel Residences

Where: Nantucket, MA

What: Classic New England Summer

Why: Kids can enjoy the surf at the nearby Children’s Beach and Jetties Beach – both beaches have swing sets, slides, and climbing equipment. There are also numerous activities such as whale-watching, fishing, biking, golfing, and bird-watching. The cabanas by the new members’ pool come equipped with pool toys, towels, and sun screen, and after a day at the beach, children can eat from their special menu at the delicious Brant Point Grill.

Summer Perk: Can’t beat the charm of Nantucket or the miles of beaches surrounding the island.

Rates: Starting at $350 in June for a King room with the Hot Dates/Cool Rates promotion

Crystal Cruises

Where: Alaska

What: Family friendly programming, excursions, and eats

Why: Crystal Symphony offers children’s programs and activities on select sailings including the Fantasia playroom and the Waves arcade, complete with a Sony Playstation® 3, Nintendo Wii™ and Xbox 360™. A daily newsletter, tailored by age group, provides details on kid-friendly activities, like sushi making with Nobu-trained chefs, Bridge and galley tours, ice cream parties, scavenger hunts, and Computer University@Sea® classes.

Summer Perk: The Alaska Summer Series has allied with the National Park Service where Park Rangers come aboard to teach children about natural history; kids and teens can even become Junior Rangers!

Rates: Children 11 and younger pay 50 percent of the minimum fare when accompanied by two full-fare paying adults. Throughout the year, the line occasionally sets special promotions in which children can sail free when sharing a room with two adults.  

Royal Mansour Marrakech

Where: Marrakech, Morocco

What: Joujou Kid’s Club

Why: Along with the idyllic playroom, everyday there is a schedule of events including an Arabic course, arts workshop, writing games, modeling clay, swimming pool games, dress up, and reading. Parents can also arrange for outings around Marrakech, including camel rides through the Palmeraie. Summer Perk: Take the whole fam to check out the Festival National des Arts Populaires where Berber music, folk dance, and street performers fill the streets of Marrakech and provide wonderful – and free – entertainment.

Rates:  Rates for a full individual riad start from €1,650 per night.

Parrot Cay

Where: Turks & Caicos

What: Caribbean fun

Why: The resort introduced children’s offerings based on input from guests, with a range of tailor-made activities including shell painting, tie-dying T-shirts, making necklaces from fossilized shark teeth, organized scavenger hunts, and sailing trips around the island. These activities are particularly popular since they allow the kids to make friends with others on the island.

Summer Perk: Now through October 31, with the Extend that Summer Feeling offer, guests at Parrot Cay get four nights for the price of three or seven nights for the price of five, including breakfast. AND kids eat free all summer!

Rates: Starting at $450 per night for a Terrace Room

La Réserve Genève

Where: Geneva, Switzerland

What: La Petit Réserve

Why: Children can explore the world of “La Petite Réserve” and let their imaginations run wild. The property features a creative ensemble of tree huts and an open air playground on the beautiful lawns.

Summer Perk: La Réserve Genève’s exquisite wooden speedboat is the perfect way to get out on the lake and take in the Swiss scenery and the city views.

Rates: Rates start at $682 for a superior king room

GoldenEye Hotel & Resort

Where: Oracabessa, Jamaica

What: James Bond-style Family Vacay

Why: The watersports program at GoldenEye is supervised by trained lifeguards and will teach children about water safety, snorkeling, jet skiing, and kayaking and expose them to the amazing undersea world of extraordinary creatures and corals. Kiddies can carve coconuts, embark on nature walks, learn bonfire building and fishing with Ramsey (who has worked on the property since the days of Fleming), or stay up to stargaze with Brian, resident astronomy buff.

Summer Perk: Families save 46% off high season winter rates.

Rates: Starting at $448 for a Lagoon Suite

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek

Where: Beaver Creek, Colorado

What: Teen & Tween treatments at Allegria Spa

Why: Tweens and teens can ditch the ‘rents for some much deserved pampering at the Allegria Spa. Eight-12 year olds can indulge in the ‘Diva Deluxe,’ which includes a bubbling footbath, nail and toe art, a primadonna updo, and sweetcheeks makeup application. 12-16 year olds can recreate their favorite makeover scene with the Uptown Girl package, which includes a cranberry orange scrub, Swedish massage, teen facial and makeup application.
Summer Perk: Fridays at the Park, a free weekly event with snacks, live music and activities for kids and the whole family.

Rates: Diva Deluxe- 70 minutes for $125, and Uptown Girl- 120 minutes and $250

For more family travel features, visit

http://www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin