Best Places to Travel with Kids & Still Feel Like an Adult
I’ve resisted writing about this for a long time. Even though a large portion of my business is made up of tiny travelers, I’ve never embraced the descriptor of “family-friendly”. Something about it has always made me feel a like I’ll loose my edge — or “cool factor” so to speak — when it comes to having a pulse on the travel industry. I’ve come across many parents who wrestle with the question “if my kids come on my vacation, is it really a vacation at all anymore?” I, too, have been in the same position. Does bringing my little one along mean I’ll be swapping cocktail hour for nap time? Exotic and off-the-beaten-path for tot-toting tours and kid-filled resort pools? I firmly believe in the importance of adult escapes and kid-free vacations, but we know that traveling is important for our littlest passengers — travel helps children increase their flexibility, build new levels of tolerance when it comes to patience and unpredictability, builds confidence and usually encourages them to try some new foods along the way. All in all, your little jet-setter will come home more adaptable, open-minded and a better citizen.
So, is “family-friendly” always" “ uncool”? After taking my two-year-old to three new countries this year, I’ve learned that the answer is not at all.
Pack up the kiddo’s and hit the road (or the skies) — here are eight spots that are ideal for parents & kids alike.
Rosewood Miramar Beach, Montecito
Why It works:
Located right on the beach, Rosewood Miramar Beach delicately balances luxury and suitability for families. The resort’s Manor Pool is as chic as it comes, surrounded by citrus and olive trees and saddled with seven stylish cabanas. At sunset, set your little ones free to roam the massive resort lawn — or let them stop by the Scoop Shop for a treat. The beachfront location is ideal for swimming and the hotel specializes in beachside picnics that will have the whole crew excited for lunch. As an added bonus, the town of Montecito boats miles of flat bike lanes for exploring like a local. There’s a reason why celebrities families flock here, afterall.
You’ll Enjoy:
Ragan Stone Travel is a member of Rosewood Elite, Rosewood’s highest preferred partner level. Each stay includes complimentary daily breakfast for two guests, a $125+ resort credit, late check-out & early check in plus an upgrade on arrival, if available.
GLENAGLES, SCOTLAND
WHY IT WORKS:
Activities abound at Gleneagles. There are truly so many things to do, and I know first-hand from my own' family’s experience here. The Estate is truly a playground — filled with unique experiences like falconry and gundog guiding to the aptly named “Wee Course” — one of the most scenic rounds of beginner golf you’ll ever play. Sneak away to the American Bar and drop the little ones at “The Den”, a supervised kid-zone for crafts, movie nights and games offered complimentary to all guests. Top it all off with a spacious family room, equipped with large living areas and kitchenettes, making it a breeze to see the Scottish Highlands as a family.
YOU’LL ENJOY:
Thanks to my friend and colleague, Ashley Thomson, Director of International Sales at Gleneagles, clients who stay with me will appreciate VIP treatment at the Glorious Playground. They’ll also enjoy complimentary breakfast for two guests, a resort credit, early check-in, check-out and an upgrade if available.
JUMBY BAY, ANTIGUA
WHY IT WORKS:
Imagine that the finest resort in the Caribbean welcomes families. Now imagine that it’s also all-inclusive. That’s Jumby Bay. This private island, located off of Antigua, is a sanctuary for sun-loving families. Sip cocktails on the beach while your littles ones learn to sail, water-ski, paddle-board and more — all in your eyesight. Parents will appreciate the expansive beach, decadent spa and easy-to-navigate island (there are no vehicles!) — plus a weekly activity schedule provides opportunities for dinner celebrations on the beach, fitness instruction and even conservation with the Hawksbill turtle program. Book one of the newly constructed Family Suites for the ultimate escape — a massive 3,000 square foot accommodation with two bedrooms and a full-size pool, or gather the cousins & in-laws in one of the island’s residences, available up to 8 bedrooms.
YOU’LL ENJOY:
Arrive with ease and let us provide complimentary VIP arrival & departure services to and from Antigua, plus a $200+ resort credit and guaranteed early check-in, late check-out (when available).
NIHI SUMBA, INDONESIA
WHY IT WORKS:
Indonesia is probably not the first destination that comes to mind with the kids, but here’s why you should keep it on your list. A stay at Nihi Sumba is a true off-the-grid escape. Set on its own rugged island, you won’t soon find any Daniel Tiger or bounce houses — Nihi Sumba goes back to the basics. where you and your kids can combine immersive experiences like chocolate making with unforgettable moments like swimming with wild horses. Not for the faint of heart, Nihi Sumba is a whopping 20 hour journey from a city like Atlanta — but the destination is worth the trek. You’ll be in-awe of the unspoiled beaches, tropical forests and rugged cliffs and inspired by the resort’s commitment to sustainability and support of the local community. A one-of-a-kind journey guaranteed to change you and your children forever.
YOU’LL ENJOY:
A stay at Nihi Sumba booked with Ragan Stone Travel will include complimentary daily breakfast for two guests, a $125+ resort credit, late check-out & early check in plus an upgrade on arrival, if available.
EDEN ROCK, ST. BARTH’S
WHY IT WORKS:
I know what you’re thinking — St. Barth’s? With kid’s? As it turns out, there’s far more to this tiny island than popping champagne and dancing on tables — kids and parents can both thrive here. St. Barth’s numerous beaches and small size make it ideal for families to hop from beach to beach, before stopping in Gustavia for lunch. Most restaurants and beach clubs welcome children and Eden Rock’s guest-only beach club is perfect for island-hopping families. Although there’s no pool, the calm and shallow waters of St. Jean beach are perfect for little legs — and kiddos will love watching planes land in the distance while the snack of fresh fish, milkshakes and enviable fruit plates. If the hotel is intimidating for your wild ones, try an Eden Rock villa — with a portfolio of 150 villas, all staffed with your personal butler and most with a pool, it’s possible to find your perfect spot.
YOU’LL ENJOY:
All Ragan Stone Travel clients receive complimentary breakfast at Eden Rock (even when you stay in a villa), the daily breakfast is served a la carte and with a delicious array of fresh juices and coffees. You’ll also enjoy a resort credit and VIP status through our preferred partnership with Oetker Collection.
