City Hotels - Pitstops for Kids

Where to stay in Peru: Casa Andina hotel review

September 28, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

In a country like Peru, it can feel daunting to know which hotels to book for a family vacation. Undoubtedly, you want a place to stay that’s clean, safe, reliable, and friendly. Being close to attractions is nice, too. During my stay in Peru with Vantage Adventures, we stayed in Casa Andina hotels at every stop, and by the end of our trip, seeing each Casa Andina was a welcome sight.

This Peruvian hotel brand is nothing like the cookie-cutter hotel chains you may be picturing. Each property is unique to the region or city in which it’s located, and all have their own flavor. The only thing I found the same at each Casa Andina was the exceptional service and the clean, modern hotel rooms.

There are two types of Casa Andina: ‘Classic’ and ‘Private Collection’. The Classic Casa Andina hotels cost approximately $130 per night, and feature basic but comfortable lobbies, a basic but good included breakfast, and WiFi in your room for about 35 soles a night ($7). You’d think that because Classic hotels are lower in cost, they’d be located outside of desired areas, but in Cusco and Machu Picchu, I found Classics to be right in the heart of things, in ideal locations.

Private Collection Casa Andina hotels feature everything that the Classics do, but with upgrades to the rooms, to the service (though I must say I had great service at every Casa Andina) and to the grounds. You get a bigger, more impressive breakfast buffet included, and most Private Collection hotels also have an on-site restaurant for additional meals. Room rates are around $400 per night.

I stayed in four Casa Andina hotels in Peru: two Classic and two Private Collection. Here are my thoughts:

Casa Andina Cusco Cathedral:

This Casa Andina Classic is located adjacent to Plaza de Armes in Cusco. The location truly could not be better. From my room on the second level, I could look out over the street and see the dome of the cathedral. I had a very spacious room, though it was a corner room, with two big windows, a bathroom with a shower, and a flatscreen TV (and the aforementioned WiFi). Other travelers told me the rooms not facing the street were smaller, but quieter.

Downstairs, the lobby was small but pretty, with a doorman and coca tea on a refreshment stand at all times. The breakfast buffet was simple (think eggs, yogurt, juice, bread, toast, jam, and coffee), and there was no coffee service in the room. Personally, I loved this hotel, and would absolutely stay there again, mostly due to it’s perfect location.

Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco:

The Casa Andina Cusco is also located in Cusco (obviously), and is a Private Collection option in the historic center. It’s location is arguably just as good as the Classic hotel’s location. What makes this hotel unique is its historical significance. Originally a colonial mansion from the Spanish rule era, the hotel is a delightful maze of adobe-walled rooms with thick tile floor, interior courtyards with fountains and gardens open to the sky, and an elegant restaurant with original Renaissance era paintings. All this is in the heart of bustling Cusco, but is remarkably quiet.

Because the hotel is historic, rooms are smaller than most for the Private Collection, and some have only interior courtyard windows (instead of windows to the outside). However, I found the privilege of sleeping in a mansion to be a fair tradeoff. Instead of a large lobby, the Cusco has a warm, welcoming reception room with fireplace, as well as one of the city’s best bars. Its largest courtyard features tables and chairs around a pretty fountain. Adjacent, the hotel restaurant serves a breakfast buffet with made-to-order omelettes (ask your waiter) and both hot and cold choices that are authentically Peruvian (as well as some staples like cereal, fruit, and bread).

The staff was welcoming and warm from the general manager to the cleaning staff, and I felt safe and cared for completely.

Casa Andina Machu Picchu:

This Classic Casa Andina is located right down the stairs from the train station in Aquas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). On one side of this five story hotel is the Urubamba River, and on the other, the Inca Rail tracks. Despite this somewhat lively location, it was not loud, surprisingly. The lobby was basic (like other Classics) but warm and welcoming, and I enjoyed all the amenities I’d found in the other Classic I visited. My room was large, with a shower and bath and a flatscreen TV, and I had a great view of the river.

The breakfast buffet was similar to the other Classic, and located in a dining area at the basement level. From this Casa Andina, I was able to easily walk everywhere in the town, and could be at the bus stop for Machu Picchu in under two minutes.

Casa Andina Sacred Valley:

Probably the most visually appealing of all the Casa Andina hotels I visited, the Sacred Valley Private Collection location was a welcome sight after a long drive from Cusco. Located in Ollyanta within a ten minute drive to the Inca Train station, Casa Andina Sacred Valley is a beautiful resort nestled on a big property of lawns, gardens, and even a children’s playground. Truly an oasis in the valley, this property is the one you want to return to after a day of sight-seeing in and around the busy but sometimes overwhelming towns of the valley.

My room was spacious, with a flatscreen and wide window to the stunning natural scenery of the mountains and the gardens of the hotel. The Casa Andina Sacred Valley is made up of several buildings housing the rooms, so the walk outdoors to the lobby/reception area and the dining room and breakfast area is a welcome chance to take a peek at what the day has in store. Everything is secure, quiet, and peaceful. There’s a spa on premises, as well as inviting hammocks on the lawn.

No matter which Casa Andina you choose, I feel confident you can count on consistent service and standards. Read more about planning a family trip to Peru! Learn more about booking your own trip.

Where to stay in Peru: reviews of Casa Andina hotels

As I disclose when applicable, I was hosted by Casa Andina for the purpose of review. All opinion remains my own.

Holiday Inn Downtown Omaha review: A family-friendly place to hang your hat

August 8, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Time to rack up those IHG points! If your family is enjoying the multitude of things to do in Omaha, consider hanging your hat at the Holiday Inn-Downtown Omaha. This hotel, a few blocks away from the concentration of downtown attractions, has just the right balance of quality and family-friendly touches to make it a home away from home.

Holiday Inn Downtown Omaha review:

This Holiday Inn has gone out of its way to make itself family-friendly. They offer free lodging to children 19 and under as long as they’re staying in their parents’ room. Up to four children age 12 and under can eat for free at the restaurant in the hotel restaurant, Burger Theory, which offers standard pub fair and a wide selection of beers.

Then, of course, there’s the pool area, featuring an indoor waterpark with a splash pad, buckets that dump over a play structure, and a 3-story water slide that goes outside the building and comes back in. This slide does not dump into a pool, but has a long flat area at the end for slowing, although you’ll stop moving just about as soon as you reach the flat. Be aware there is no lifeguard; however, there were quite a few people there when we visited, and safety wasn’t an issue. The area also offers a leisure pool ranging from 3-4 feet deep–most of it in the 3 to 3’ 6” range—with a whirlpool (3′ 6″ deep) and a hot tub. Every room gets five wrist bands per day for the pool area; extras cost $10 apiece.

Rooms & other amenities:

We were given a room with a king-sized bed, TV, and writing table, separated by a partial wall from a living/office area which included a second television and another desk. The room also had a microwave and refrigerator. The table lamps all included electric plugs, which is a nice feature for a family traveling with multiple electronic devices. The decor was streamlined and understated, and it was generally a restful room to return to after a long day. Our one issue was getting the room to a comfortable temperature, as we had the wall thermostat set at 80 and we were still cold at night.

The hotel also offers an open wireless network, a business center, a coffee shop in the lobby, and a fitness center. Parking is free in the lot behind the hotel—a nice perk for a downtown hotel–and a free shuttle leaves the premises every half hour during business hours. It runs to any location within a 3-mile radius, which includes a whole lot of attractions. It also goes to the airport 24/7.

Rates/location:

Room rates start as low as $127 in the off season. The Holiday Inn-Downtown Omaha is located at 1420 Cuming St., Omaha, Nebraska.

Our family was given a room for our stay at the Holiday Inn Downtown Omaha in exchange for an honest review.

Des Moines area hotel review: Hotel Pattee

June 24, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

If you’re looking for charm and character off the beaten path, while still staying close enough to access the fun of a metro area, try the historic Hotel Pattee, in Perry, Iowa. This lovely old building, which first opened in 1913, offers the serenity of a small town location close to nature while still being close to a metro area with lots of attractions.

Art sculptures at the roof top courtyard of Hotel Pattee, photo: Sheila Scarborough

Guests can access the Raccoon River Valley Nature Trail just by crossing the street. (You can rent bicycles next door.) Nearby, you’ll find places to kayak, canoe, and play golf. You can spend a relaxed day in Perry, soaking up the small-town flavor. Or you can make the easy drive (forty minutes of four-lane highway) into Des Moines to take advantage of museums, a living history farm, amusement parks, horse racing, and more.

Room amenities:

Each room in the Hotel Pattee, whether classic, premiere, or suite, is decorated to a theme. The hotel is filled with artwork. Our inner room faced brick walls and a roof, yet when my kids opened the wooden blinds the first morning, they discovered a quirky sculpture park housed in the enclosure. Even more delightful was the discovery of a platter full of chocolate chip cookies (really soft, chunky ones!) on the stairwell landing every evening.

Indian Room, photo credit: Hotel Pattee

Because it’s an older hotel with heavier construction, the rooms are more soundproof than most. We had ample room to walk around two queen beds, two chairs, an ottoman, and a cushy lounge. Even with a rollout cot in the room, we weren’t tight for space. We also had a large bathroom with a jetted tub, separate walk-in shower, and double sinks.

We did not have a refrigerator or microwave, nor is there a swimming pool. However, the hotel does provide free wifi, as well as a hot tub, both dry and steam saunas, and two lanes of bowling, all free to guests, as well as massage and spa options available for an extra fee.

On-site, complimentary bowling

Dining/Entertainment:

While you’re staying at the Hotel Pattee, take advantage of the live music in the lobby on Friday and Saturday nights. Grab a book and lounge in the charming Soumas courtyard, with its fabulous recycled-art gates. Be sure to enjoy Dave’s Milwaukee Diner, which provides great food and train-themed artwork. For breakfast, we recommend the Pain Perdu, a house specialty.

Also take time to visit the nearby Firehouse Ice Cream (which also serves burgers) and Firehouse Museum (free, though they accept donations). If you’re lucky, Brian, the owner, will give you a personal tour. And the hamburgers were out of this world.

Rates:

Rooms start at $114 a night, and packages are available.

Location:

The Hotel Pattee is in Perry, Iowa, at the corner of Willis Avenue and Iowa 144.

My family and I stayed at the Hotel Pattee as guests of the hotel, for the purpose of providing an honest review.

Tips for AirBnb Italy: Where to stay in Florence and Rome

March 16, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Originally thought of as only a step up from couch surfing, Airbnb has caught on with family travelers in the US. But what about using Airbnb while traveling abroad? We used Airbnb exclusively throughout Italy, and found the process to be just as secure and convenient as in the states. If anything, Airbnb Italy owners were even easier to work with, and the lodging savings were even better!

Airbnb Italy: Where to stay in Florence and Rome

When renting with Airbnb, it can be hard to know much about the apartment owner or manager. Will he or she be the type to welcome you with a bottle of wine and a binder of suggested itineraries, or be more hands off? You can’t be certain, but while reading reviews, look for information about the owner in addition to the apartment itself. The ‘best’ owners will receive glowing reviews of their own.

We had the pleasure of staying in this lovely Florence apartment, which was only steps from the central Ponte Vecchio bridge. Tucked away behind a pottery shop, this apartment was absolutely ideal. (The photo above is the actual entrance to this apartment.) Better yet, no one was using the owner’s second apartment rental, and she graciously offered our family both. For the first time in a week, our family of five was able to spread out. Our owner was the ‘bottle of wine upon arrival’ type, and even scoured the neighborhood for Christmas Day restaurant reservations for us. Truly, this was above and beyond.

The apartment we rented had a living room, bedroom with extra day bed, and pull-out bed to sleep five. There was a full kitchen (without oven…just stove top) and a dining table. All the little things were there: a hair dryer, shampoo and soap, detergent, and kitchen staples such as olive oil and coffee filters. A grocery store was located just around the corner.

We had a small patio and air conditioning and heat, plus the second apartment with all the same amenities. In fact, the apartment layouts are almost identical. The only exception: the bedroom is bigger in the lower apartment and the living space is bigger in the upper apartment.

In Rome, we rented from Airbnb again, and again, we had a great experience with the owner in terms of the accommodations, communication, and ease. We rented this unit, which was located in an upper middle class neighborhood directly on the Tiber. We were in easy walking distance of the Vatican area, a ten minute walk to Piazza Populo and Villa Borghese, and only meters from the Metro station where we could grab a train to other points in the city. Our longest ‘commute’ was to the Centro Storico (old city) where we spent a lot of time. It was a thirty minute walk without much in terms of metro access, but the entire way was scenic.

This apartment was by far the roomiest we had in Europe, with two bathrooms (a luxury!) and three bedrooms (one of which could be a living room space instead). The kitchen is very small, but we used it for snacks and breakfasts, opting to eat out for dinners. The grocery store is just around the corner, though it does close early and open late by American standards. We felt very secure here, as the apartment building had a doorman and a very elegant lobby. We loved all the space we enjoyed here; our only complaint: the street noise could get loud. I used ear plugs.

What to expect with any Airbnb rental in Italy:

Communication from the owner. You should hear from them within a week of your check-in date, with detailed instructions for finding the apartment and asking about your arrival time. Download the AirBnB app for the easiest communication.
Personal greeting. You will be met at the apartment by the owner or manager and given a tour.
A per-night, per-person lodging fee. This is paid in cash to the owner (usually at the end of the stay). It’s 2,50 euro per person, per night in most cases.
Feedback left for you after you depart. Remember to leave the owner feedback as well. This helps both of you for future trips.

What to expect only sometimes:

Some apartments require a deposit, usually in cash, which is returned before your departure. It will be disclosed whether this is required in the apartment description on AirBnB.
Some will have a bottle of Italian wine ready for you to uncork. Others won’t even have a bottle opener in the house. You just never know!

Grown up getaway: Society Hotel Portland

February 5, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Love unique properties, boutique hotels, and repurposed buildings? Portland has the motherload. It seems that every time I turn around, a new boutique property has opened in my favorite Northwest city. The latest: The Society Hotel, which we checked out on a rainy January weekend.

No doubt about it, the Society Hotel is ideal for a grown up getaway, parent-child mini-vacation, or girls’ weekend: rooms are sized for two, not the whole crew. I visited with my teen son, for a weekend of soccer, college touring, and city fun. The property was recently repurposed from the historic building’s heyday as sailors’ quarters in the 1880s, and the renovation has been done beautifully, with dark paneled wood, period wall decor and flooring, and of course, the high ceilings and long windows of the era. Lodging options include a mixture of full and queen rooms, small suites, and bunkhouse beds.

While the Society is built around the bunkhouse/European hostel concept, it’s decided upscale. No scruffy backpackers here…during our stay, we saw primarily the urban hipster, Millennial crowd. Upon entering the lobby, we were immediately both wowed and put at ease: the vibe is trendy, but warm and cozy. In the heart of the lobby area is the Society Cafe, which serves incredible coffee and pastries in the morning and craft cocktails at night. Situated around the cafe counter are sofas, a fireplace, cozy tables and chairs. Certainly, you could order an herbal tea and just sit for an evening (which I did). Across from the check-in desk, a bulletin board awaits guests with ‘pinned’ activity suggestions from around the Portland area.

The hotel is now LEED certified, and has WiFi included, as well as a text-service that connects guests to the front desk day or night. The Society is located in the city’s historic Old Town/Chinatown district, which I love: during our stay, my son and I were in the heart of the city, steps away from Portland’s famous food truck pods, Voodoo Donut, and the Pearl District. Public transport is right around the corner. Normally, this type of city center location, combined with boutique ambiance in an historic building equals a high room rate, but this is the beauty of the Society: rates start at just $75 for rooms and $40 for bunks.

Room types:

The Society has three room types. By far the most unique is the bunkhouse, which offers hostel-style bunks with, again, an upscale flair. Each bunk has WiFi, a reading light, outlets and plugs, and a privacy curtain. The bunks reminded me of high-end overnight train compartments. Bunkhouse guests share bathroom facilities, a small kitchen, and laundry facilities, and have access to private lockers. Bunks are $40, and would make a fun option for a group.

The hotel also houses 26 private rooms on the upstairs levels, which have either a full or queen bed, wash station with sink and mirror, and plenty of storage in the form of pegs, hangers, and under-bed cubes. These rooms truly do have a European guesthouse feel. Bathrooms are shared on each hallway, and are very spacious and clean. Shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel were provided, as well as towels and bathrobes. In the US, it is definitely a departure from the norm to feature shared bathroom facilities, but we found it to be no big deal. For $75/night in the heart of Portland, it’s a steal, really.

If you really want your own bathroom, opt for a suite. They’re still only around $110/night. These rooms are bigger than the standard rooms, but not by much; don’t expect square footage to rival your house, as can be the case with some hotel suites.

Amenities:

I’ve saved the best for last. My absolute favorite feature of the Society, even more so than the cozy lobby and cafe, is the rooftop deck. This 5th floor outdoor space is partially covered (for the rainy weekends like the one we ‘enjoyed’), and wrapped with beautiful wood benches, a Zen garden, and landscaping. You get 360 degree views of the city: I loved coming up here with my coffee in the morning, then again to see the city skyline at night, with a glass of wine. The Society has thoughtfully put out a little locker of cozy blankets to use while enjoying the space.

There is no dedicated parking at the Society, which I fretted about before arrival. I hate worrying about my car, and I hate paying dearly for city parking. The front desk staff gave me the inside scoop on where to find street parking, and we found we easily parked within a quarter block of the hotel during our entire stay. Nights were complete free, and during the day, we were gone in the car most of the time. In total, I may have spent $5 on parking over three days. That sure beats the heck out of $30-40 nightly parking fees at surrounding hotels.

In a nutshell, if you want a unique, historic place to stay in the heart of Portland without the city prices, and are willing to adjust your expectations a bit when it comes to lodging, the Society is for you. I encourage you to give it a try! I know we’ll be back!

As I disclose whenever applicable, we stayed at the Society on a media rate, for the purpose of review. All opinions remain our own.

Where to stay in Paris on a budget with kids

January 25, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

When we planned to spend five days in Paris with kids, we knew we’d be on a budget. To make it possible for us, we chose to book a HomeAway apartment rental in an outer arrondissement. This arrangement allowed us enough sleeping space for our family of five, a kitchen to cook some meals in, and a washing machine for our laundry. We already trusted HomeAway, as we use this site for ski vacations in the States. Abroad, we had the same positive experience we’re already accustomed to, even in Paris on a budget.

Why stay in the Montmartre neighborhood:

Montmartre is a neighborhood of contradictions: it’s both touristy and authentic, tacky and elegant. During our week-long stay, we found that the atmosphere changes as you climb the hill: at the bottom, you’ll find a working class neighborhood with more than its share of night clubs, but at the top, the elegance of Sacre Coeur awaits, with smaller cafes and street artists. The latter is filled with tourists, but below, we found a more genuine Paris experience, where the restaurants and stores served the locals…and were priced accordingly.

Pros:

Staying outside the most popular arrondissements can save money on accommodations.
The Montmartre neighborhood (and the 18th arrondissement) has a local, artsy vibe that’s fun for older kids and teens.
The Chateau Rogue metro station is convenient to downtown.

Cons:

While Montmartre is a destination in itself, it’s not in the heart of the go-to tourist attractions: you’re a metro ride away.
Can be loud at night in some areas.

Paris on a budget: Why apartment living is where it’s at:

We set up camp at this HomeAway apartment, located just steps from the Metro station and a five minute walk from Sacre Coeur. In the heart of the holiday season, we paid only $500 total for five nights, which is drastically less than we’d spend on two hotel rooms per night for our family of five.

While the space was small, we all had our own beds, and the space was functional. We saved even more money by eating in several nights during our stay. Directly down the street from our apartment was a convenient grocery store where we stocked up on essentials, and several bakeries were just below us. We stocked up on breakfast items, coffee, bottled water, snacks, and the makings of a few easy meals, such as soup and baguette. We still ate most our meals out, but having some in saved us time and money.

You never know how hands-on or hands-off your host will be when you book through HomeAway, but this time, we hit the jackpot. The owner of this apartment was very communicative and helpful, both before our trip and during. She met us with a smile when we arrived tired after a transcontinental flight, and spoke English well enough to give us a tour of the small apartment (we don’t speak French). Renting this apartment also gave us access to free WiFi, a laundry machine, and the extra space of a living room.

A few HomeAway tips:

Download the app for easy communication with your host.
Book early for the best pricing, but don’t be afraid to try for a last-minute booking…some hosts discount their properties if unsold during peak weeks.
Read the fine print: check to see if you’ll need to leave a damage deposit or any required city tax fee, and whether it will need to be in cash. For our rental, a €250 cash deposit was required (returned on departure), and this would have been a pretty big hiccup if I hadn’t been prepared ahead of time.
Check both the map in the listing and the reviews. Look for information on the host as well as on the property itself.

Montmartre during the Christmas season:

While I’m now sold on staying in Montmartre during any time of year, it was particularly magical during the Christmas season. A ten minute walk from our apartment found us at the top of the hill by Sacre Coeur, where we had a great view of the Eiffel Tower and festive lights twinkled from every corner.

The above post was written in partnership with HomeAway. As always, all opinions remain my own.

Where to stay in Chicago: Westin Chicago River North

December 21, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

The moment we entered the elegant lobby of the Westin Chicago River North at the blustery, snowy start of our winter Chicago weekend, we felt awash in warm and hospitality. While our hands and feet warmed up quickly, that cozy feeling never went away. For the entirety of our two night stay, we were met with smiles, helpful staff, beautiful surroundings, and convenient amenities. Here’s why we’ll definitely be back:

Westin Chicago River North provided impeccable service and hospitality from start to finish. Every question we had was answered promptly and competently, our room was spacious and had everything we needed, and the location was ideal for a fun weekend in the city.

We stayed on the 9th floor, with wonderful river views. We had a double with a full bath and shower, plenty of sink and counter space, and a spacious closet. WiFi is free for SPG members (free to join) and we had robes and a large flat screen TV with plenty of free channels so we could settle down comfortably during the chilly nights we visited. Out our window, we could watch the snow fall on the the Chicago River and enjoy the skyline.

River North has a club level lounge, which we took advantage of. For an added fee to your nightly rate, guests can access this lounge on the 20th floor, which puts out a full breakfast every morning, snacks during the day, and appetizers and small plates in the evening. All day long, a fridge with soda, water, and other non-alcoholic drinks are on offer. We find that with a family of five, this upgrade is always worth the money. Our rule of thumb: if we’ll be at the hotel to enjoy breakfast and at least one other trip to the lounge per day for snacks, the value is there. During our stay, the lounge put out several appetizers, cut veggies and dip, fruit, cookies, and a soup of the day each evening. We found this to be more than enough for us for dinner. At very least, it’s enough to feed the kids before having a dinner out for the adults. Wine and beer is also available in the lounge for an added fee. Other guests can also use the lounge, during which they pay $15 per visit per person. (Don’t do it this way…it won’t be worth it!)

From the River North property, we were only two blocks from the CTA lines we needed both for the train and the bus. We could easily visit the Sears (Willis) Tower, Millennium Park, and the Museum Campus (all in different directions) within 15 minutes by public transit. We loved being right on the river for a genuine Chicago feel. Note: Chicago’s CTA (Chicago Transit) is different than the Metra (short for Metropolitan Rail), which services the suburbs.

Special Westin touches:

I love Westin’s StayFit program, which allows you to rent exercise clothing and shoes for only $5. The gear is clean and stylish, and saves me room in my carry-on bag. The exercise facility on site is convenient and contemporary, and while not terribly large, it met my needs just fine.

Westin also provides a SuperFoods menu among their room service offerings in many hotels, including River North. Anything I can do to stay healthy and eat well during a trip, I’m grateful for!

I can’t say enough good things about the Westin River North concierge desk. During my stay, I was helped by three concierge staff members, and all three were excellent. I got wonderful recommendations on what to do in the city, then very specific directions when I needed them, and a swiftly called cab exactly when necessary (at oh-dark-thirty for a trip to the airport). Trust me, this doesn’t always happen!

The front desk staff at River North always greeted us with a smile, asked if we needed any bottled waters before heading out in the morning, and had infused water on hand in the lobby. Bowls of fresh fruit were abundant, and every public space was clean, well-lighted, and welcoming. When we returned after the end of a busy day in the city, we felt the sanctuary of a home away from home.

Rates:

Nightly rates started around $150 at the time of our visit (non-holiday weekend). Upgrading to club level was an additional $50 per night, which would definitely pay for itself.

Location:

The Westin River North is located at 320 N. Dearborn. We arrived from O’Hare, and took the Metra train Blue Line easily to the property. Valet parking is available if arriving by car.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we were hosted at Westin Chicago for the purpose of review. All opinions are our own.

Photo credit: Amy Whitley, Westin

Fun holiday events at favorite hotels this season

December 2, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Will you be celebrating the holidays on vacation this year? If so, we have a round-up of holiday events at hotels, with deals and and happenings at some of our favorite resorts and family vacation hot spots. Read on to learn where to book your holiday getaway, whether you’re headed to sand or snow:

Tropical and beach holiday events:

Head to South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island, Florida for a tropical holiday paradise. The Captiva Holiday Village runs from Nov. 27 – Dec. 21, 2015 on this popular southwest Florida barrier island. Families traveling to Captiva Island during Captiva Holiday Village weekends enjoy a Mullet Band parade, lighted boat parade, South Seas holiday strolls, a Junkanoo Parade, a carol sing at the Chapel by the Sea, sunset arias, a holiday golf cart parade and much more. Check website for schedule.

In Boca Raton, Florida, the Boca Raton Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort will host its third annual New Year’s Eve celebration, Rock the Block, an over-the-top, quarter mile long block party offering live music, indulgent cuisine and festive activities for all ages.

While this event is designed to be family friendly, adults will not miss out on a full-fledged party: everyone will enjoy an extravagant buffet dinner complete with an abundant raw bar, sushi bar, premium carving stations and indulgent kids options. Free-flowing Champagne will complement a deluxe open-bar. The night will begin with the Spazmatics, and the resort’s Grand Lawn, located on one end of the Block Party, will be transformed into a carnival complete with a 300 ft long zip line, a Wipeout-style obstacle course, spider tower, balloon artists and carnival games. Don’t miss the private fireworks at midnight! Learn more.

In Dana Point, California, Monarch Beach Resort is offering the “Winter Sandy-land” package that includes a “snowman” sand building kit, nightly milk and cookie turndown, and more at this coastal hotel. Need more incentive? The St. Regis has year-round swimming via private beach and an outdoor fire pit surrounded by couches for families to cozy up in the evenings. Rates start at an incredible $245/night for a stay at this iconic property. It’s good through December 30, 2015.

At Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts in North Florida, families can book Breakfast with Santa, complete with a buffet, children’s craft table, candy bar, and photo opps. Families also enjoy gingerbread house decorating parties and Santa’s Workshop, where kids can create an arts & crafts holiday gift. The activity list doesn’t end there: sign up for hayrides with Santa, Christmas caroling, holiday movie nights, baking class, or story time with Mrs. Claus. Those staying for New Year can ‘enjoy’ the resorts’ 15th annual New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge, or the ‘Noon’ Year’s Eve for the younger set.

Mountain holiday events:

Santa is coming to town…or rather, to Keystone Resort, Colorado, beginning Saturday, Nov. 28 through Christmas Eve. From photo opportunities and story time to parades and ice skating, the holiday spirit is alive and well at Keystone. Events include the Keystone Chocolate Village, celebrating its 20th year, featuring a working chocolate gondola, cascading chocolate waterfall, four-foot tall chocolate Christmas tree, and many other winter scenes.

Additional family activities at the resort include Kidtopia events like a Giant Snowball Launch and Bigfoot Adventure Walk. All season long through Kidtopia, kids can play on a huge snow fort and participate in free activities that are scheduled by the day and week. Here’s the whole 2015-2016 Kidtopia winter schedule. And remember, kids ski free at Keystone, even during the holidays.

At the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, located at Northstar Resort, special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus are scheduled in The Living Room, the hotel’s spacious front lobby, followed by story time with Mrs. Claus in the evenings. Kids are also invited to participate in Ritz Kids crafts with Mrs. Claus. For the adults, the Art of Mixology, on December 6, offers an entertaining, educational experience featuring freshly cut herbs, use of classic ingredients such as bitters, and infused liquors to create three unique cocktails paired with appetizers.

Santa’s Gingerbread Workshop is designed for parents to enjoy with the kids, alongside a Ritz-Carlton pastry chef…oh, and holiday beverages are included. If you’d rather not make edible crafts, try the Atelier Holiday Workshops, offered by a local Truckee business, where families can learn to make hand-crafted wrapping paper. If you’re planning a stay over the actual Christmas holiday, book at table at Manzanita, either for the lunch buffet from December 21-January 3, or for the holiday dinner December 24th and 25th.

At Mt. Hood Meadows, visit Santa on December 20th…on skis! Families can also join Santa for a holiday breakfast buffet at the Mt. Hood Meadow’s Vertical North Pole restaurant, located at the top level of the North Lodge. Santa will be on the slopes from 10-10:30 am. Nearby in Hood River, the Columbia Gorge Hotel hosts a Lights & Santa Visit. This historic national landmark looks even more beautiful during the holiday season, when the hotel and riverside grounds are festooned with lights. Enjoy a Holiday High Tea on December 19, 2-4 PM, and An Evening with St. Nick on December 20, 6-6:30 PM.

At Sunriver Resort in Central Oregon, families can take advantage of a long list of holiday events and happenings for kids, including sleigh rides, elf tuck-ins, visits with Santa, and tons of excitement at Fort Funnigan, the resort’s gathering place for children. Funnigan’s Very Crafty Christmas takes place on December 19, 2015, during which kids become elves in Santa’s workshop, making gifts for Mom and Dad.

The day after Christmas, kids can return to Fort Funnigan for the Holiday Pajama Rama from 6-9 pm. This pajama party includes pillow fights, sessions at the fort’s Bear Factory, and yummy dessert. Holiday let-down will be a thing of the past!

At The Omni Grove Park Inn outside Asheville, North Carolina, gingerbread reigns! This hotel will continue the tradition of their annual gingerbread house contest, first begun in 1992. Hundreds of intricate holiday designs will be on display, along with 80-themed Christmas trees and thousands of twinkling lights. Families can book the Gingerbread Holiday package from Nov. 15 to Dec. 29, 2015, which includes deluxe accommodations, their Art of Breakfast Buffet in the Blue Ridge restaurant, one gingerbread cookie per registered guest, and overnight valet or garage parking .

Educational travel: hotel programs that teach while vacationing

September 11, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Will you be pulling your kids out of school this year for travel? You can admit it here…we do it too! While we believe that travel aids a child’s education, we also value the lessons they’re learning in school. Therefore, when we do take kids out of class, we try to find museums to visit or hotel programs for kids that offer classes, lessons, or special programming. Below, our favorite hotel brands for families, and what they’re offering kids this autumn:

Appalachian Mountain Club lodges, Vermont:

For families planning a fall foliage getaway or a winter trip into the outdoors, AMC’s Highland Center offers eco and educational programming for kids as young as three. Located in the White Mountains on the Appalachian Trail, their L.L. Bean room comes stocked with family-friendly equipment and their staff offers nature walks and hikes geared toward families. Plus, the Highland Center won’t break the bank: rooms are affordable and meals are communal.

Select Ritz Carlton hotels:

Select Ritz Carlton hotels offer Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program. We reviewed their Laguna Niguel snorkeling excursion last summer, and are pleased to see the program offered in several locations, including Maui. Kids begin their Ambassadors of the Environment program in a classroom–don’t worry, it’s fun–where they see a slideshow about the marine animals they will encounter and learn about the unique environment local to the hotel. Guides then take kids (and parents too, if they sign up) off-site to snorkel, take a beach walk, or explore local flora and fauna in another capacity. Water bottles and snacks are included, as well as a photo CD of the experience.

Dar Les Cigognes, Morocco:

This boutique hotel converted from a wealthy merchant’s home offers private cooking classes which can be booked by visiting families. Amanda Mouttaki of Maroc Mama tried out a cooking class with her child, and loved how the class was completely customizable (great for food allergies). Traditions in Moroccan food were explained, and of course, the final product was happily consumed.

Gleneagles Hotel, Scotland:

Travel writer Jen Miner of the Vacation Gals experienced authentic, wild falconry with her kids during a family visit to this well-known hotel. The British School of Falconry was established at Gleneagles, which means the kids were taught this ancient sport by actual professionals in the field. Gleneagles also offers a wide array of additional sports and outdoor activities for families, including archery. Note: not up for an international trip? Falconry is also taught to families staying at the Woodstock Inn, Vermont.

Masseria Torre Coccaro, Italy:

This working farm-turned hotel in Puglia, Italy allows kids to cook with the resort chef before eating their creations, including pasta and pizza. Families learn about the olive groves in this part of the country, and the mills that produce food. Learn more on Global Mouse Travels about their stay and culinary adventures at Masseria Torre Coccaro.

Turtle Beach Resort, Barbados:

At all-inclusive Turtle Beach Resort, Barbados, kids can take dialect lessons –children on the island speak with Bajan accents–and learn a few words of island slang. Pastry classes are also offered, where kids use local ingredients such as noni flour and cactus, and families can play beach cricket with hotel staff…an island favorite. Best of all for animal lovers and budding marine biologists, kids staying at Turtle Beach can learn from Turtle Pioneers, experts on the dozens of turtles that nest here each year.

Preferred Hotels (international):

We love the Preferred Hotels brand so much, I contribute to their Preferred Family website, dedicated to family travel. It’s easy to see at a glance which Preferred hotels are kid-friendly on the Preferred Family site (criteria for the distinction includes kids’ clubs, kid-friendly dining, and kids’ programming). The best Preferred properties will offer an array of classes for kids from golf clinics to scuba lessons. Send the kids to the tennis courts or to the nature trail with Preferred the next time you book Preferred!

Mountain View Grand Resort, New Hampshire:

This luxury mountain property is all about bringing kids to the outdoors, and the outdoors in. According to Luxe Recess, the Mountaineering Club is where kids gather for screen-free activities ranging from frog races to cardboard box races in the pool. Best of all, this programming is free during the day time hours. Mountain View also hosts a ‘meet the farmer activity’, during which guests can collect eggs and interact with sheep, llamas, cattle, and alpacas.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji:

Lucky enough to be headed to Fiji? Last year, we told you about Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort‘s Learn and Play programming, outdoor and hotel programming designed for families and school-aged kids. Kids 6-12 even help out in the hotel kitchen, assisting the resort chef to create a meal start to finish. This year, the resort has added their Connect with Kids program, a unique and culturally educational travel experience for children and their parents staying at the resort. This new program allows families to head off-site to visit a local primary school to meet children of similar age groups in their classroom and participate in that day’s curriculum.

Atmosphere Resorts and Spa, Philippines:

With an in-house biologist and a marine sanctuary right at its doorstep, this property in Dumaguete is a natural choice for families looking to educate themselves during vacation. The resort offers kids’ classes in marine biology and art, all in a relaxed atmosphere. Read more on Globetotting.com.

The American Club, Kohler, Wisconsin:

This five-star resort is known for golf, but they start ’em young. In addition to more mainstream children’s programming, parents can sign kids up for private golf session that include video and swing analysis software. The crew at Road Trips for Families tried it out, noting that families can group siblings together in one lesson, a nice cost-savings.

Want to find educational pit stops in addition to educational opportunities at hotels and resorts? Check out Trekaroo’s Road School series!

Photo credit: Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji and Amy Whitley

Where to stay in Grand Rapids: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel review

August 24, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

The following post is written by Pit Stops for Kids’ Midwest contributor, Kate Basi.

Situated on the banks of the Grand River in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is one of the landmarks of the city’s skyline. It consists of two distinct sections—the historic Pantlind Hotel, built in 1913, along with a modern glass high rise tower that offers stunning views of the city.

Room amenities:

Our family of six was given a Tower luxury suite, with views of the river and the city on three sides. A spacious living room included a 42-inch TV and sleek, modern mirrored decor. We had ample shelving and a spacious mini-fridge as well as a jetted tub with luxurious shower options. The only thing we lacked was a microwave.

The bedroom included a king-sized bed as well as a second TV, a lounge couch and a spacious desk (complimentary wifi) that gave this working mom room a place to be productive while the kids watched TV. The view of the river from that desk was icing on the cake.

We were also given a connecting bedroom with similar decor and two queen beds. Smaller and more functional (for instance, it had only a walk-in shower, not a tub), that room nonetheless had a desk and great views of its own. The layout, as well as the luxury bedding in both rooms, allowed everyone in our family of six to follow their normal sleep schedule despite being away from home.

It’s the details that make the Amway Grand Plaza such a great place to stay. Our suite came with plush his-and-hers bathrobes, and the kids were particularly entranced by the mural artwork on the underside of the coffee table, which was reflected in a mirror below.

That attention to detail can be seen in other parts of the hotel as well. Without fail, the staff was helpful and courteous, and generally responded quickly to questions or requests.

The fourth-floor fitness center includes an outdoor tennis court and an indoor pool, as well as a workout room set up with multiple ellipticals, treadmills, stationary bicycles, and weights. The pool area is relaxing and designed with beauty as well as function in mind. Parents can lounge on cushioned wicker chairs and couches separated by potted plants. Our kids enjoyed seeing the water change color under the fiber optic lights. As an added convenience, the fitness center boasts a snack bar. The hours are extensive, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

What To Do:

The Amway Grand Plaza is located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, connected by skywalk to DeVos Convention Center and within easy walking distance of numerous attractions. There are at least four museums–the Public Museum of Grand Rapids, which includes a planetarium and high-visibility traveling exhibits (King Tut, when we were there); the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum; the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum; and the Grand Rapids Art Museum. The Amway’s riverside location offers not only beautiful views but also access to the river walk on either side of the water. Downtown Grand Rapids boasts numerous pedestrian/bicycle bridges and cultural opportunities, from carillon concerts at the university across the river to a ballet school, a concert hall, live music at the band shell on Rosa Parks Circle, and an ice hockey arena that hosts big-name tours.

Dining:

The Amway Grand Plaza includes two upscale dining options: Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse on the ground floor of the Pantlind wing and Cygnus 27 on the 27th floor of the Tower. For more family-friendly pricing, visit GP Sports, which offers bar & grill fare (burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and appetizers). Gluten-free and vegetarian options are notated on the menu. Coffee lovers will be happy to know that there is also a Starbucks in the building.

Rates:

Room rates start at approximately $200/night on weeknights. Our Tower Luxury Suite was in the $400/night range. Valet parking is available for $29/day, self-park for $19.

For downtown lodging close to almost everything and a comfortable, luxurious night’s sleep, you can’t do better than the Amway Grand Plaza.

Location:

187 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan, adjacent to DeVos Convention Center.

Our family stayed at the Amway Plaza Grand as guests of Experience Grand Rapids in return for an honest review.