The Costco Connection - February 2018

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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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

T O D D BI GEL OW

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.