CHOOSING THE PERFECT HOTEL FOR A FAMILY VACATION
Not that easy is it, with the kids? Here’s some pointers
Planning a family vacation can be a lot of fun — at least it should be — but it’s tricky. An important first step is picking the right hotel. That can make a big difference.
You want your family to be happy and comfortable. (I mean, we presume you do.) So, what should you look for? Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect hotel and amenities for a family vacation.
Spacious Family Rooms or Suites
So, this is a big “duh” but spacious family rooms or suites are very important. They give everyone enough room to relax and enjoy your time together. A large living space can help keep kids entertained while adults can unwind. Definitely look for hotels that offer rooms with separate areas for sleeping and lounging.
Having a suite can also make it easier to manage bedtime routines or enjoy snacks without having to be in a single room. And you know you’ve been in that single room… point taken?
Kid-Friendly Dining Options
When traveling with kids, it’s essential to find dining options that cater to their tastes. Essential is a friggin’ understatement. Look for hotels that provide child-friendly menus with familiar favorites like pizza, pasta, and — yuck, but it’s not for us, is it? — chicken nuggets. Some hotels even have special dining areas designed for kids, making mealtimes fun and relaxed. Just don’t get tempted to leave them there! You still have to take them with you when the meal is over…
Consider hotels that offer flexible meal times, so you can eat whenever works best for your family’s schedule. This means fewer stressful moments. A great hotel might even have a hotel movie room where you can enjoy a film together.
Swimming Pool and Recreational Facilities
A swimming pool is a big hit for families on vacation. Kids love to splash around and play games in the water. You love to splash around and play games in the water (er, just not all the games you like to play in the water…) Some hotels may also have water slides or splash pads, which can add extra fun. For the kids, we’re talking!
In addition to pools, check for other recreational facilities like playgrounds, game rooms, or sports areas. These spaces are great for families to play together and stay active.
Convenient Location
Choosing a hotel in a convenient location is key for a stress-free vacation. You want to be close to attractions, restaurants, and shops. Staying near popular sites makes it easier to explore without a commute. Look for hotels that are within walking distance to family-friendly activities.
A central location also gives you more flexibility with your plans. If you can easily return to the hotel for breaks, where the whole family can relax and recharge. For more trips out of the hotel!
Free Wi-Fi and Entertainment Options
Having free Wi-Fi is important. It keeps everyone entertained. You will be happy for that distraction for the little ones from time to time — just stay off business email! Let someone else sort out the problem! Your only problem should be figuring out how to wean your offspring off of crappy chicken nuggets.
Some hotels offer entertainment centers, such as this hotel movie theater in Berlin, which can be a fun outing for the whole family.
So, yes, a good hotel will make all the difference. This doesn’t mean it has to be a grand, five star classic — in fact it almost definitely won’t be — but the right amenities really can make your trip more enjoyable. And, you know, they’re only kids for a short time.
