PETER GREENBERG
Peter Greenberg is the
multiple–Emmy Award–
winning travel editor
for CBS News and host
of The Travel Detective
on public television
( petergreenberg.com).
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At costcoconnection.com,
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TRAVELCONNECTION
WHAT’S YOUR DEFINITION of “family
friendly” when it comes to your vacation? Is it kid-friendly activities or comprehensive child care?
Healthy menus or opportunities for parents to
interact with their kids with new experiences?
And, of course, does “family friendly” also mean
affordable? In my book, the answer is all of the
above, especially if you’re headed to Mexico with
your family. Here are a few options.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta
Traveling with an infant? This resort on the
Pacific Ocean stands ready to start your child’s
life off in the lap of luxury. The Kids Spa offers a
Baby’s First Haircut service, complete with a cer-
tificate commemorating this rite of passage.
The all-inclusive rate for the resort covers the
services of a Baby Concierge, cribs, bottles, strollers, baby bathtubs, diaper disposal and even rattles in case that special one got left on the plane.
Teens can get specially targeted facials (;;;) and
hang out at a teen club with video games, nonalcoholic beverages, and cooking and dancing
classes. For adults: sandy beaches, golf and a spa.
Paradisus La Esmeralda, Playa del Carmen
Along with a private bay, nine restaurants and
a multitude of bars, the resort’s Family Concierge
program is designed to give parents a truly hassle-
free vacation. Suites come with a dedicated butler
to coordinate activities for both parents and chil-
dren. Your offspring can be your very own
“mini-me” in child-size bath-
robes and slippers.
There is also a tear-free
amenity kit, and the minibar is
thoughtfully stocked with fruit
juices. The hotel’s turndown
service includes milk and cookies. Twenty-four-hour babysit-ting is available for a fee, and a
Visit the aquarium, aviary, butterfly pavilion and ancient ruins, and enjoy a fireworks
show at night. Swimming with the dolphins
will cost extra. For further immersion in
Mayan culture, sign up for a trip to the ancient
remains of Chichén Itzá.
Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach,
Cabo San Lucas
At this resort, it’s all about the food choices
for families. Its Market at Quivira offers a range
of cuisines and communal tables.
The ;;;;s Diner offers hamburgers, hot dogs, fried chicken and milk-shakes. There’s a New York–style deli;
an Italian pizza, pasta and lasagna
station; a creperia; traditional
Mexican foods; an ice-cream stop;
and La Huerta (The Orchard), specializing in fresh organic foods and vegetarian entrees. Fair warning to
chocoholics in the family: The food is
covered through the all-inclusive
plan—except for the chocolate shop.
Time your visit in the fall and
the family can assist the Sea Turtle
Conservation Team as they release
hatchlings at dawn. Year-round, the
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COSTCOCONNECTION
Costco Travel offers packages to these and many other
properties around the world.
Costco Executive members
can now earn a 2% Reward, up
to $1,000, on quali;ed Costco
purchases when they book
vacation packages, cruises
and rental cars through Costco
Travel (terms, conditions and
exclusions apply). Using the
Costco Anywhere Visa Card by
Citi adds another 3% cash-back reward. To learn more,
click “Travel” at Costco.com or
call 1-877-849-2730.
THE
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Grand Velas
Riviera Nayarit,
Puerto Vallarta.
All in the family
Getaways for everyone in your group
Moon Palace, Cancún.
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