Kidcations 2017/18 Edition

kid·ca·tion·er n. 1. A savvy, outgoing youngster under 16 years old who loves having a good time while on vacation. 2. Dedicated youth(s) who may be selected to be sent on vacation to test out the coolest offerings, amenities and accommodations at a top-rated Sunwing resort perfect for families.

#1 for Families We believe there is no one better to test vacations for kids than kids themselves, which is why we call our kid-friendly vacations, “Kidcations”.

The ultimate getaway; younger travellers and their parents can look forward to top-tier, family-friendly amenities, entertainment, facilities and activities in beachfront locations across Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

We’ve handpicked these resorts for family vacations, as they feature all the large and small details that go into creating a memorable vacation for everyone. Plus, we make sure that families get to truly make the most out of the vacation with exclusive valued-added perks such as: • Kids Stay, Play and Eat FREE • special prices for teens • more value at our roster of Smile Resorts™ (see page 14 for details) • unlimited free water park* access at Sunwing’s SplashWorld® resorts In a nutshell, Sunwing’s Kidcations cater to the unique needs of children and their families – because we like to ensure that every member of the family is treated like a VIP.

*on or off site

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Fireese and Hartford are Kidcationers!

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Luxury Enjoy Royalton Resorts for families

Experience

Splash Parks

All-In LuxuryÂŽ

Clubhouse Kids Clubs

Hangout Teens Clubs

Make your family vacation at Royalton Luxury Resorts truly memorable. A great selection of age-appropriate activities, supervised by our team of professionals, will keep your children entertained throughout your entire stay.

Engage in a variety of sports and activities, including beach volleyball, ping pong, cooking classes, dance classes, trivia games, aerobics classes, and weight-training with professional instructors. Take a dip in the splash pool by day, then watch live shows and performances at the open-air theatre by night. Non-motorized water sports like snorkelling and kayaking are always fun, while the introductory scuba diving lessons in the pool attract adventure-seeking vacationers.

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Royalton Luxury Resorts were designed with familyfriendly accommodation options, kids menus to please everyone, and loads of activities.

Clubhouse Kids Clubs welcome our newest guests Children ages 4 to 12 will interact with our guests Max & RubyTM, watching cartoons, discovering the playground, and playing various games - all of which are supervised.

Max & RubyTM Give the whole family an experience to remember when you visit Royalton Luxury Resorts, and encounter everyone’s favourite bunny siblings, Max & RubyTM. Enjoy live appearances, themed activities, and evening entertainment with the loveable and adventurous pair.

Hangout Teens Club The perfect haven for 13 to 17-year-olds, these lounges feature fun-tastic games, video game rooms, Wi-Fi areas with charging stations, billiards and ping pong tables.

Kids Adventures Treat your kids to an authentic adventure with our innovative Kids Adventure program. Designed for a range of ages, these supervised programs set the backdrop for memorable experiences in an environment that is casual, fun and safe.

Rooms Designed with Families in Mind Enjoy all the favourite comforts of home and more with spacious rooms designed to accommodate families of 5 or more.

Many resorts also offer connecting rooms and/or suites so kids can have their own space while being right next to mom and dad.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

editor’s note Dear families, Welcome to the latest edition of our Kidcations magazine! Whether you’re just starting out on your first kidcation with baby in tow, or seeking inspiration on how to get teens excited about their next vacation, we’ve got plenty of destination inspiration for you.

As a mother of two active boys aged 7 and 11, I know all too well that planning a vacation where everyone gets to do as much (or as little!) as they like isn’t always straightforward.

So we’re delighted to welcome back our Kidcationers who have been busy putting some of our favourite family-friendly resorts to the test to make sure they truly lived up to Kidcation standards; as of course there’s no one better to determine if a resort is truly child-friendly than the kids themselves. From Mylianne’s adventures in Cuba where she sailed in a catamaran and took a tour in a vintage classic car, to Aziz’s water park thrills in Riviera Maya, they’ve certainly been busy. We’re also revealing our new pick of Kidcationers and where they’re heading off to this winter. We’ve also got the details on how your budding junior travel experts could become one of our Kidcationers next year.

Of course, Moms know a thing or two when it comes to family travel, so we’re sharing plenty of their hints, tips and recommendations of where to explore next. Corinne McDermott of Have Baby, Will Travel gives us the low down on family vacationing in Cuba, Deanne Ferguson of Alberta Mamas tells us why Pacific Mexico ticks all the boxes for her, and lifestyle blogger. Assa Cisse explains why her Jamaican vacation was so good it got her six-year old singing!

Of course no Kidcation is complete without explorations off the resort so our Top Five Kid-Frendly Excursions article should provide some useful inspiration. Or perhaps you’d prefer to make your vacation a full-on exploration. Our cruise vacation special gives the insider tips on how best to explore at sea with junior sailors.

Whatever you decide should be your next Kidcation, we hope that you find our latest issue a useful guide.

Happy Reading!

Rachel Goldrick, Editor-in-Chief 6 | Sunwing Kidcations

Camilla Pucholt Photography

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76 Publisher: Jacqueline Grossman Editor-in-Chief: Rachel Goldrick Creative Services Manager: Lilian Ward Copy Editors: Cortney Cook, Abygayle Norris Director, Programme & Promotional Development: Susan Oland

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Art Director: Sergio Jaua Graphic designers: Amanda Moody, Robert Tomaino, Stephanie Pagnotta, Michael La Grassa, Kayla Mollins Contributors: Irfan Rashid, Candace Derickx, Jamie Damak, Amanda Leaman-Cornacchia, Lella De Palma Connie Peters, Corrinne McDemsett, Deanne Ferguson and Assa Cisse Contributing Editors: Warren Banks, Deborah Delgado Distribution: Joy Jackson Sunwing Kidcations | 7

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Camilla Pucholt Photography

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W h a t ’s i n s i d e Top reasons we’re #1 for Family Vacations

10

Three reasons to Smile - More for the Family

14

Fly as a family

18

We will be back, Holguin

28

How to keep sand on the beach where it belongs

34

Presenting our New Kidcation Tester Winners

40

Setting our clocks to island time

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Melia Marina Varadero - A family vacation with endless fun

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Join Kidcation Tester Mylianne at Memories Holguin Beach Resort

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Jump in and make a splash

68

Top Kid-friendly Excursions

86

Join Kidcation Tester Aziz at the Sandos Caracol Eco Resort

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Calling Kidcation Testers

102

Top 5 reasons to get off the beach and get on the boat!

108

Never a dull moment on MSC

112

Relaxation guaranteed at Riu Jalisco

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Sandos Playacar Beach Resort - Kidcation Tested

by Wyatt

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Vacation Eats - Top resort picks for picky eaters

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Join Kidcation Testers Fireese & Hartford at the Family Club at Grand Riviera All Suites & Spa Resort

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Two’s company, but five is more fun!

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A vacation sure to please at Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa

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Top Experience the Difference with the #1 for family vacations. With exclusive perks and valued-added benefits at an array of top-rated resorts recommended by TripAdvisor® in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America, it’s no wonder we’re #1 to the sun!

reasons we’re

#1 Resorts tested and approved by real Kidcationers

These resorts offer: Tons of splash-worthy fun with pools dedicated for kids Tasty menu options and treats just for kids Plenty of activities available through kids and/or teens clubs

Our editors’ favourite picks for a Kidcation These resorts offer: Kid-friendly menu options Kids and/or teens club that offer a wide variety of exciting activities Pools dedicated for kids, splash areas and/or waterparks Kidcations SUNWING.CA 1010 | Sunwing

1.

Largest offering of TripAdvisor’s® top-rated family resorts

2.

Kids Stay, Play, and Eat FREE at Smile Resorts™ (just look for the Smile logo!)

Plus, you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest at these family-friendly resorts that will have everyone smiling with Sunwing Experiences. We’re with you every step of the way to make sure your family vacation is a truly memorable one: from the moment you step on the plane to your return home.

No matter the adventure you’re looking for, our team of local destination experts are readily available to help you make the most of your time away: from zipline adventures designed just for kids, to dolphin swims, to supervised kid-friendly tours and more.

3.

Larger rooms that accommodate families of 5 or more

4.

Free access to the largest waterparks under the sun

Camilla Pucholt Photography

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for Family Vacations

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Largest

water park in the Caribbean 12 | Sunwing Kidcations

n i p m Ju at Memories Splash Punta Cana Travelling with the family? Memories Splash Punta Cana is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones, and enjoy some genuine quality time away from the daily grind.

Full of splash-worthy fun, this family-friendly resort in the Dominican Republic is sure to keep the whole family smiling even after they get home. Home to one of the Caribbean’s largest on-site waterparks, the resort is complete with 20ft slides, a tipping bucket, wave pool, and splash park for younger children.

Plus, at the kids club, younger guests can enjoy safe and supervised activities from meeting their favourite characters like Toopy and Binoo™ to making new friends at the on-site playground.

Teens will also find plenty of entertainment at the teens lounge, offering some of their favourite PlayStation® games, a Wi-Fi area with charging stations, billiards table, and table tennis.

The whole family can also get together with a wide variety of sports, entertainment and recreational activities available throughout the resort such as: beach volleyball, beach and pool Olympics, tennis, and a disco. Sports enthusiasts don’t have to worry about missing their favourite televised games with a “Sports Events Guarantee™, and those looking to keep on top of their fitness game can do so at the fully-equipped gym on site.

Toopy and Binoo TM © (2014) Echo Media.

All Rights Reserved.

Toopy and Binoo™ © (2017) Echo Media. All Rights Reserved.

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Photography: Regan Baird

Camilla Pucholt Photography

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reasons to

With incredible value-added benefits and exclusive familyfriendly perks at a range of resorts only offered by Sunwing, we’ve got lots of reasons for you to smile on your vacation. Inspired by carefree family moments under the sun, we fittingly call these our Smile Resorts™. Just look for the Smile logo! In the meantime, here’s our top-three favourite perks!

1.

2.

3.

Don’t pay double when travelling solo! If you’re the sole parent travelling with your child(ren), there’s no single supplement to pay when you share a room.

Kidcations SUNWING.CA 1414 | Sunwing

Kids aged 2-12 years Stay, Play, and Eat FREE, and teens enjoy exclusive deals Enjoy some extra savings with this exclusive offer, and book your family vacation in confidence knowing that with Sunwing you get the best deal for kids and teens all year round, even during peak season times.

Exclusive perks just for kids Little ones enjoy tons of Splash-worthy Fun with dedicated kids’ pools, as well as free beach towels and bottle of water replaced daily.

Smile for families No Single Supplement

1L bottle of water replaced in your room daily

Smile kids club program

Kids pool (many with shaded areas)

Photography: Regan Baird

Kids Stay, Play, & Eat FREE

Beach towels in room upon arrival for each guest

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The best

family holiday

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Resorts & Spa

Travel with the ones you love to create unforgettable memories. Large and spacious rooms offer all the amenities and services families need for the ultimate in comfort and relaxation, while friendly staff will help you enjoy a worry free and fun family vacation in paradise.

Featuring a wide variety of family-friendly activities and services, these all inclusive resorts are designed so that you and your children will enjoy one of the best family holidays in the Caribbean. Experience fun for all ages with features including kids’ characters, cartoons, games and playgrounds.

Parents can even spend precious time alone while children are being entertained at the Kids Club, supervised by warm and professional staff.

BABY CLUB (0 – 3 years) MEMORIES KIDS CLUB Children ages 4 to 12 can socialize with others their own age while interacting with Toopy and BinooTM, watching cartoons, discovering the playground, or playing various supervised games.

TOOPY AND BINOOTM Turn your vacation into an adventure with the beloved characters Toopy and BinooTM at Memories Resorts & Spa. The playful and spontaneous pair, along with Patchy Patch, will entertain the whole family with interactive appearances, activities, games, and a live show.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

Toopy and Binoo TM © (2017) Echo Media.

All Rights Reserved.

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fly

as a

family When it comes to family vacations, the fun starts the moment you step on board Experience the Difference When you choose Sunwing, your vacation starts the moment you step on the airplane. Passengers are welcomed by a professional and attentive flight crew, and start their holiday off right with award-winning in-flight service. After a welcoming toast of sparkling wine, sit back and relax with a free non-alcoholic beverage service, choose from a wide selection of buy-on-board meals inspired by Food Network Canada Celebrity Chef Lynn Crawford, enjoy complimentary in-flight entertainment including first run movies, and take advantage of up to 23kg free baggage allowance, and more.

Friendly and professional at 30,000 feet Our friendly and professional crew are ready to serve the whole family and help you relax as you head off to start your vacation.

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Kick up the fun with Kid Packs Younger travellers can add some extra fun to their ride in the sky with our complimentary Kidcation Activity Packs that are offered to all children 10 years old and under. These fun orange backpacks feature an activity book with puzzles and colouring contests, a set of crayons to let out their inner artist, an inflatable beach ball that’s pool or ocean ready, and more. Perfect for carrying all their vacation necessities, the backpack is theirs to keep.

Plus, our in-flight entertainment includes excellent options for little ones like top-rated family favourites. Or, if they’d rather listen to some tunes while they colour or read, there’s a music channel just for kids with covers of chart topping hits and other kid classics.

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Delightful dining in the air While Food Network Canada Celebrity Chef, Lynn Crawford, won’t necessarily be on board, her recipes will! We’ve recently enhanced our in-flight menu to offer our passengers an even wider selection of quality, fresh and affordably-priced meal options inspired by the Chef herself: from the savoury and sweet Cinnamon Apple Bake to the hearty and comforting Homestyle Shepherd’s Pie. But we didn’t forget about the mini-appetites! The Kidcations snack box has plenty of pint-sized treats including Nutella & Go! Packs, raisins, and a Rice Krispie treat. Because food should be tasty as well as fun, we’ve also included colourful goldfish crackers and a squeezable pack of blended fruits.

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Travel like a VIP Set off in Style: For just $50 per person per direction, you can stretch out and get comfy with Elite Plus. Easily select your seat in advanced and enjoy priority boarding, extra legroom and 30kg baggage allowance.

Pre-boarding pampering start the pampering early at The Plaza Premium Lounge, featuring comfortable seating, a hot buffet of delicious fare, a self-serve bar, showers, magazines, newspapers and a TV. If the prospect of having somewhere to unwind before your vacation starts sounds like perfection, head to Sunwing.ca to pre-purchase the Plaza Premium Lounge offer for $25 per person* and save $10 per person on the walk-in rate. Nothing beats enjoying first-class service with your loved ones on your way to paradise.

What’s included in our award-winning inflight service?

All Sunwing packages to the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America include: • A welcoming glass of sparkling wine • Buy-on-board selection of snacks and meals ($) • First-run movies • Free non-alcoholic beverages such as tea, coffee, pop, and juice • Free checked baggage up to 23kg per person • Free 5kg carry-on plus one personal item (including a purse, laptop bag, or diaper bag) *Available at participating airports

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Learn &

If you’re seeking a hotel to enjoy with your family on your next holiday, this is the place for you.

Barcelo Hotel Group, which consists of Barcelo Hotels and Resorts, Occidental Hotels and Resorts, Allegro Hotels and Royal Hideaway Luxury Resorts are located in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Cuba–all ideal destinations for families.

Our family-friendly resorts have a large range of activities at their kids clubs to ensure that even the smallest members of the family will enjoy themselves. The parents can also indulge in a wide range of entertainment and leisure activities.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

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Where family

are made

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Kick the fun up a notch with a vacation at Grand Memories Resorts & Spa. Designed with families in mind, these resorts offer white-sand beaches perfect for building sandcastles, turquoise waters for little ones to splash in, and endless options for fun to ensure a memorable family vacation.

With complimentary kids and teens clubs filled to the brim with engaging activities, Grand Memories Resorts cater to younger guests in a fun and safe manner. Little ones can look forward to meeting their favourite cartoon characters Toopy and BinooTM, while teens can enjoy some of their favourite video games and more in the teens lounge.

Plus, the whole family can enjoy a host of complimentary activities and sports together. Kids and parents can challenge each other to a game of mini football or basketball on the multi-sport court, enjoy a volleyball game, or play billiards and ping pong.

If mom and dad are looking to enjoy some downtime, they can take advantage of numerous relaxing amenities such as calming massages at the on-site spa, or a romantic meal together while the kids are enjoying their supervised activities.

Guests that choose to stay at Grand Memories Santa Maria in Cuba can look forward to pristine beaches, a refreshing pool and a variety of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and pedal boating. Those looking to explore can easily visit the nearby market where they’ll find local art and intricate souvenirs.

Families can also look forward to plenty of adventure when they stay at Grand Memories Varadero, where they can easily visit the capital of Havana to soak up some local Cuban culture. This beachfont property offers two pools to splash around in, and complimentary non-motorized water sports such as catamaran rides and windsurfing.

Avid golfers in the family will appreciate the convenient location to the nearby championship golf course, so they can easily take advantage of the various golf packages available.

Grand Memories Resorts & Spa - let the holiday memories and experiences begin!

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

Toopy and Binoo TM Š (2017) Echo Media.

All Rights Reserved.

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Wewill

be back,

Resorts & Spa

Holguin

Journalist, Corinne McDermott, loves writing about her two greatest loves - family and travel. You can read all about her personal experiences on travelling with a baby—from packing to flying, to hotel rooms and more.

By Corinne McDermott

kidcation

Cuba is like our vacation home away from home, and just like the title of this article, “we’ll be back”! This tropical paradise is always our first choice for a sunny vacation and, in our seven visits to the island in the past ten years, we haven’t been to the same place twice. Given Cuba’s size and destination options, we haven’t needed to, but our most recent visit to Holguin may have changed that for us. We may have just found our family’s first repeat vacation location.

Our very first visit was to Varadero, and as our love of Cuba grew, we added Jibacoa, Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa Maria, and Santiago de Cuba to our list of amazing vacations in Cuba. When travelling with a baby or toddler (or in our case a baby and a toddler), Cuba is a great and easy holiday: it’s affordable, it’s clean and safe, and it’s such a friendly place for children.

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Holguin had piqued my curiosity for years since it’s home to big, well-established resorts, but is still renowned for being very low-key. Visiting Holguin for the first time felt like coming home. There’s the phenomenal beaches, rugged nature, and charming villages that Cuba is known for, with a laid-back vibe that is not at the expense of an ingrained tourism infrastructure. For us, Holguin combined the best of all of Cuba’s worlds.

We spent 11 glorious days at Memories Holguin Beach Resort. This was our longest-ever all inclusive vacation, and in hindsight I feel a bit silly for worrying that we might get bored for staying so long. In fact, our vacation was far from boring!

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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Located on Playa Yuraguanal, the location offers peace and privacy (it is the only resort on the beach) without feeling isolated.

The property is large and the grounds and gardens are beautiful. Almost every night after dinner, my husband would take the kids to explore the paths and mangroves to find crabs and frogs, while I’d relax with a cafÊ con leche and listen to live music in the square beside the lobby.

Our basic routine went as follows: breakfast, beach, lunch (sometimes on the beach, sometimes at the buffet), pool, dinner, exploring/music, show. The beach is protected by a reef that keeps the water calm and is great for budding snorkellers to explore. The water is quite shallow and stronger swimmers can easily swim there, or you could sign out a paddleboat and gear for a mini outing. We did both. There are five cascading

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pools, each with incredible views of the grounds and the sea. There were also tons of activities to enjoy! Our visits to Rocazul mini-zoo and the “bat cave” are total highlights and are not to be missed, even if the latter exposes you as a big chicken in front of your kids.

When the time came to do a little exploring, our off-resort time was just as memorable. A short drive away is Guardalavaca, with a bustling flea market and promenade leading to Playa Guardalavaca, the big public beach. We arrived in style in a ’55 Chevy that was just as awesome as the ’55 Ford we hired the next day to visit the fishing village of Gibara and tour the city of Holguin. Our Sunwing Experiences excursion to Cayo Saetia was equally memorable and totally unique to Cuba. Every Caribbean destination offers catamaran and snorkelling excursions, but ours included a visit to a former game reserve with a safari on an old-Russian military transport vehicle.

As is the sign of any great vacation, there were tears when it was over. With a daughter in academic ballet and a son in competitive hockey, escaping during the winter is next to impossible. But the thought of having Cuba as a go-to place for any last-minute opportunities to get away will definitely help keep me warm in the cold winter.

Corinne McDermott is the founder of HaveBabyWillTravel.com, and a contributor to kidcations.

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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Endless t n e nm i a t r Ente

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From exciting activities to quiet beach areas, Resort Mundo Imperial offers families the best of both worlds on their vacation. Situated in Acapulco’s exclusive Riviera Diamante district, this family-friendly resort is a beautifully designed and vibrant property that features three refreshing pools (including a thrilling wave pool for endless splashing,) and an action-packed kids club with a dedicated kids pool and playground. Explore the resort’s bustling outdoor esplanade that boasts chic restaurants, boutiques and music venues.

Those who enjoy staying active will appreciate the number of sports amenities and activities available including beach soccer, a running track, and tennis. Avid golfers can take advantage of exclusive Stay at 1, Play at 2 privileges with neighbouring resort Princess Mundo Imperial, so they can hit the greens and enjoy a free round of golf. For a bit of pampering and relaxation, Resort Mundo Imperial’s on-site spa offers a range of treatments that are sure to melt those stresses away. Plus, the resort’s fine dining venues promise a range of culinary delights – from the sumptuous international breakfast buffet to the finest Asian-Mexican fusion and signature steakhouse cuisines at the many à la carte restaurants.

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How to keep

h c a e B e h t Sand on where it belongs

By Candace Derickx

Everyone loves spending time on a powdery-white sand beach. There’s simply nothing better than squishing your toes through sand that feels like flour. Yup, sand is awesome—on the beach. Now, take that same sand and deposit it between the sheets of your bed, and it loses its appeal rather quickly. Let’s not even get started on the number of things it can do to electronics.

We’ve visited quite a few beaches and as the years have gone by, and I’ve learned a few tricks for leaving the sand where it belongs.

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BRING BABY POWDER

It seems counterintuitive to get rid of one powdery substance with another, but this little trick works every time. If your feet are dry, simply shake some baby powder all over your feet and wipe off. See ya, sand!

SHOWER AND SHAKE IT LOOSE

Don’t walk past the beach shower if you want to keep the sand clear of your sheets. And there’s nothing worse than putting on a gritty swimsuit. After the beach shower, turn swimsuits inside out to shake as much sand loose as possible, then rinse under the shower in your room. For really tough jobs, soak suits in a sink or tub. Squeeze water out and hang to dry on a towel rack.

Camilla Pucholt Photography

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Camilla Pucholt Photography

PROTECT YOUR ELECTRONICS

If you plan on bringing your phone, tablet or camera to the beach, be sure to pack them in an airtight, re-sealable bag to keep sand from getting in them when not in use. I once had sand get in my DSLR and the repair wasn’t cheap. Trust me on this.

BRING A MESH BAG

If your kids are bringing sand toys with them be sure to keep everything in a mesh bag. Rinse thoroughly at the beach shower and then hang to dry outside your room for the next day.

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PACK A BIG MAKEUP BRUSH

A huge powder brush is perfect for brushing sand from crevices and cracks. Before you pack to go home, brush flip flops and sand toys off thoroughly.

BRING PLASTIC BAGS

Of course, you can take every precaution and you’re still going to end up trekking a little bit of sand back to Canada with you. Be sure to pack swimsuits, sand toys and shoes in plastic bags for the return trip home to keep your suitcase sand-free.

Now you’re ready to enjoy the beach and leave the sand for the next visitor! Bon Voyage!

Camilla Pucholt Photography

Camilla Pucholt Photography

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More Play, More Fun for

families!

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Travelling with the family is a great experience unlike any other. Not only are you spending quality time and reconnecting as a group, but you are building memories that last a lifetime. At Starfish Resorts, we certainly recognize that everyone deserves to have the best time on vacation, no matter the age. Our carefully-designed family amenities offer just that with many activities, sports, and supervised kids programs to keep children of all ages entertained. This allows parents to rekindle their relationship with some one-on-one time without the worry.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

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Introducing Sunwing’s 2017 Kidcationers: Jacob, Jayda, Kaylia, Paige and Maddox. This winter, these travel hungry youngsters will be visiting some of our favourite family resorts. They will test out the comfiest beds, ride down the coolest water slides, taste the best ice cream, and much more.

Jacob From the town of Milton, Ontario, Jacob is as active as any 10 year old around, playing sports, making music and hanging out with family as much as possible. During the winter, he plays hockey every chance he gets, while still managing to go snowboarding with the family.

If he isn’t skating around a rink or carving down a hill, you might find him on a court working on his basketball game or even training for his black belt in karate. All of these activities usually mean a packed schedule for most kids, but Jacob still finds the time for music, belting out his favourite lyrics on the mic or throwing some cool beats on his drum set.

Since Jacob loves to keep busy with activities galore, he is an ideal Kidcationer to test out resort fun-levels and features for kids, especially at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, where he and his family will be heading this winter. Over the course of a week, with GoPro in hand, he will be checking out the varied dining options, beaches, waterparks, kids clubs and much more.

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NickelodeonTM Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana With a name synonymous with fun, Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is the perfect setting to let the kids (and your own inner child) out to play.

While his parents go check out the warm sands of Uvero Alto beach, Jacob can choose from a number of activities to test out in the Nickelodeon™ Village, from splashing around waterslides in Aqua Nick™ Playground to hanging out with popular Nickelodeon characters at Just Kiddin’ clubhouse.

He can also venture outside the Village to play ping pong, snorkel, or take cooking classes.

Whenever hunger strikes, he has 11 restaurants to choose from to help satisfy his cravings. He doesn’t even have to leave the water to sip on his favourite tropical drink, as he can easily grab one at any of the two swim-up bars or the snack bar Aqua Bite. We hope he’s ready for an unforgettable family vacation.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana

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Jayda Eleven year old Jayda loves to help her community of Vernon, BC. When she’s not volunteering at the local soup kitchen, you’ll find her riding her bike through the woods or jumping on her trampoline.

As soon as the snows fall, this west coaster will take to the hills to ski and sled down the slopes or head over to the outdoor rink to practice her skating. However, this snow bunny can’t wait to test out the blue oceans, waterslide, pools, and outdoor adventures waiting for her and her family on their Kidcation to Royal Solaris Los Cabos in Mexico.

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Royal Solaris Los Cabos Located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, Royal Solaris Los Cabos is a beautiful beachfront retreat with all inclusive comforts for the entire family. After taking in the ocean view from a private balcony, Jayda can ease into the vacation by lounging at one of three pools or by exploring the local culture and shopping with a stroll downtown. While vacationing in Los Cabos, every day will bring something new and exciting to experience.

Jayda will certainly be kept busy when she tries out the kids club, playground, and mini waterpark. Since she is filled with unlimited energy, she can continue her evaluation by testing out the various available resort activities, from video games and beach volleyball to mountain biking and whale watching.

An adventurous day will surely bring on a large appetite for delicious food, and with several restaurants, including a pizzeria, à la carte and buffet options, there is enough variety to satisfy all of Jayda’s cravings. While she is enjoying her meal, she can be further entertained with dinner shows and theme nights including Disney, Mexican Party, Girls vs. Boys, and more. At Royal Solaris Los Cabos there is non-stop fun and plenty to explore.

Royal Solaris Los Cabos

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Kaylia Nine year old Kaylia from Sainte Jean-d’Arc, Lac-StJean, Quebec, has been travelling since she was a baby, so this vacation expert in the making knows how to have fun in the sun. The most important part of her vacations is making sure to enjoy new experiences and create amazing memories with her family.

Much like her fellow Kidcationers, Kaylia keeps busy juggling dancing, gymnastics, running, and swimming. She definitely likes to stay active, but sitting down with a good book, learning about animals and keeping up with world events is equally important. Her skill at balancing a life of play and relaxation is ideally suited for a vacation at Riu Palace St. Martin, which offers a perfect blend of all inclusive amenities and tropical relaxation.

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Riu Palace St. Martin Riu Palace St. Martin is a luxurious boutique resort nestled on a sandy white cove and is the perfect destination for family getaways.

The intimate beach and tranquil surroundings are a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of larger resorts and provide a quiet and cozy escape.

Kaylia can begin her Kidcations trip lying in the sun with a cool fruity beverage in-hand before taking a dip in the beautiful infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. After testing out the pool, she can improve her knowledge of the area by exploring nearby mountain trails and enjoying stunning panoramic views.

The many different water sports offered at Riu Palace St Martin are perfect for Kaylia’s love of activity. The adventurer in her can snorkel, windsurf, sail, and paddle board until her heart’s content.

Of course, the vacation would not be complete without visiting RiuLand kids club offering activities for kids (4-12yrs). The tranquility of Riu Palace St. Martin is sure to be the ultimate oasis for Kaylia and her family.

Riu Palace St. Martin

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Paige and Maddox As the sole sister-brother duo on this year’s panel, Kidcationers Paige and Maddox from Wolfville, Nova Scotia, will be sharing their experiences from two different perspectives. Twelve year old Paige and her eight year old brother, Maddox, are both avid explorers who share a love for travel and experiencing new cultures.

Despite the many perks of living in a smaller community, it is always a treat to visit more exotic destinations with fun amenities not offered near home. While Paige and Maddox would welcome any adventure in the sun, they would be very pleased with some added kid-friendly excitement telling us that a resort with, “[a waterslide] would be so awesome!”

This thrill-seeking pair is ready to take on the endless options for fun at Riu Bambu in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and share their most memorable family vacation yet.

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Riu Bambu Resting on the warm sands of Arena Gorda Beach and surrounded by lush palm groves, the all inclusive Riu Bambu has amenities for the entire family. For some splash-worthy fun, the kids can take advantage of free and unlimited access to Splash Water World in the RIU Hotels & Resorts Complex for some of the largest waterslides in the Caribbean. If they can pull themselves away from the water park, there is more fun to be had at RiuLand kids club with lots of activities, a playground, and their own pool and waterslide.

It’s a good thing these two Kidcationers love adventure, as there are numerous fun activities to choose from at Riu Bambu. They can join in a game of water polo, feel the thrill of windsurfing, or explore the coastline by sailboat or kayak. All that excitement is bound to work up an appetite, so when hunger strikes the family can recharge by testing out the various dining options. There are several on-site restaurants to choose from, including two buffets and a poolside grill.

We’ll be following all their adventures closely when they travel this winter, so be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see how their Kidcations measured up.

Riu Bambu

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Hyatt loves families. With properties in Mexico and Jamaica, Hyatt Ziva Resorts provide a relaxing and carefree vacation in combination with premium services to ensure travellers of all ages enjoy a memorable vacation. At these all inclusive properties, everything is top notch from the delicious gourmet cuisine, comfortable accommodations, attentive service, to the world-class entertainment and daily activities that put a smile on the young and the young at heart.

Strategically located Puerto Vallarta’s downtown, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta combines an excellent location with a beautiful private beach. Little ones who love to splash around will love the warm and calm waters of the ocean and the extensive pool complex.

Just minutes from the celebrated artists’ town of San Jose Del Cabo, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos offers stunning views of the Sea of Cortez along with four pools including an infinity pool and kids pool exciting activities and plenty of dining options to choose from together with easy access to the town itself. International buffets and gourmet a la carte restaurants serving everything from Mexican tapas to sushi, together with 24-hour room service, cater to all tastes and appetites. While the kids are having a blast enjoying numerous activities offered at the kids club, mom and dad can take advantage of the indulgent treatments offered at the spa, go scuba diving, or tee-off at the golf course.

Located on a beautiful white-sand beachfront, Hyatt Ziva Cancun appeals to families who like to keep active, with numerous exciting amenities and activities. Little ones can splash around in the turquoise waters, parents can keep on top of their fitness game with classes such as Pilates. Or, those who prefer the gym can stay energized with access to plenty of equipment options.

To keep the healthy streak going, culinary classes are also available. However options to relax and indulge are also plentiful with luxurious lagoon-style swimming pools, reservation-free à la carte dining, and even a microbrewery on site for beer tastings.

In Jamaica, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Montego Bay offers families an upscale vacation with a host of luxurious services and a private white-sand beach. The whole gang can enjoy some outdoor adventures with complimentary water sports like boogie boarding and snorkelling included. The regular evening entertainment includes a number of interactive shows that will keep little ones entertained. To unwind, the Zen Spa on site offers numerous tranquil treatments.

Hyatt Hotels and Resorts are there to make sure you enjoy your vacation without a care in the world.

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A carefree vacation with Hyatt Ziva Resorts

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Setting our clocks to

island time

By Amanda Leaman-Cornacchia & Lella De Palma A typical day as a mom includes packing lunches, pick-ups and drop-offs, meal prep, bedtime routines and everything in between. With all that business, sometimes you just need to pause and wind down. So, needless to say when we got the opportunity to travel to the Caribbean destination of Punta Cana and stay at the gorgeous Riu Palace Bavaro for a week we didn’t hesitate!

Our vacation started right away when we got to the resort, where we were greeted by smiling faces and fruity slushy beverages. It was exactly what we needed! Travelling with kids can be challenging, but we would soon find out that RIU had us covered. Our party of eight checked in, dropped our baggage at the speed of light, and began our search for where we knew we would spend most of the next week: the pool, which was surrounded by a waterfall and a lush garden. Before we knew it the kids were putting on their floaties and jumping in, and we quickly found loungers and cold drinks. Let’s just say we settled in very well there.

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Long-time childhood friends, Amanda Leaman-Cornacchia and Lella De Palma are moms who left the corporate world behind to create Momming Inc. to share their daily lives and highlight the ups and downs of parenting. Travel is a favourite topic of theirs and they love passing on their personal tips and tricks.

kidcation

That being said, we didn’t spend all our time at the pool.

As Canadians one of the things we desire most about sun vacations is the beach and the one at Riu Palace Bavaro was amazing. The sand was perfectly warmed by the sun and the water was the most mesmerizing colour of blue. The kids built sand castles and drank strawberry daiquiris (sans rum!) until their hearts were content. There’s nothing quite like lying on the beach, drink in hand, with not a worry in the world.

In addition to alternating between the pool and the beach, we thoroughly enjoyed Splash Water World. It’s the first of its kind for RIU and it was free! There’s every type of watery ride – from the body vortex (a closed slide that shoots you forwards into the water) to gentler chutes for little ones. We already knew it would be pretty fun there, but we didn’t expect to have as much of a blast as we did! Watching the kids go down the water slides inspired us to conquer our fears and ride one for the first time ever. It was incredible.

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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Now, Moms innately want to stick to a schedule, but we quickly realized that island life is about taking it easy, relaxing, and veering off schedule; 4pm became 5pm became 6pm, and with each extra minute we created more memories. We were never in our rooms long, and I’m pretty sure we broke some records for quickest times showering and getting dressed. There was always too much going on and we didn’t want to miss any of it. The children particularly liked the show led by the RiuLand kids club team. (As well as nightly entertainment, RiuLand also offers a daily complimentary kids club). All four of our kids even hopped on stage and join in the dancing.

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Our taste buds were never bored either at this resort.

We managed to try every single culinary offering at all of the insanely delicious restaurants. From sushi to steak, to amazing Italian dishes. Even our picky little ones always found something tasty to eat. Plus, it was really easy to sample all of them as unlike some other all inclusive resorts, at RIU guests do not need to make reservations to try any of the specialty restaurants. We must confess that our favourite was the Cocoa Night at the buffet. After dinner we would indulge in everything from tropical fruit dipped in chocolate fondue, to freshly-made Belgian waffles with whipped cream, to mini sugar cones filled with whipped cream.

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful, tropical and welcoming environment. It was the perfect opportunity to unwind; the kids and us both had a blast.

Punta Cana and RIU, we’ll surely be seeing you again!

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are often considered to be sisters from different worlds, yet they are both equally rich in Mexican flair, hospitality, relaxation, and adventure.

It’s hard to pronounce, but impossible to forget!

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The town of Zihuatanejo maintains many of the original characteristics of the traditional fishing village from which it originated. You’ll find authentic handicraft shops and fine Mexican restaurants, cafes and taverns, coupled with a wide stretch of golden sand, ideal for a host of water sports and leisure activities.

Ixtapa, on the other hand, is a resort town with sleek all inclusive resorts and souvenir shops. A popular area for activities such as exploring on bikes, or observing many different bird species, Ixtapa also caters to thrill-seeking travellers in search of the perfect surfing, sports fishing or scuba diving spots, as well as vacationers seeking the perfect beach getaway in the Pacific.

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A truly action-packed all inclusive

Whether your family prefers soaking up the local culture, embarking on thrilling eco adventure, or relaxing on the beach, Melia Hotels International in Cuba offers a front row seat to all that and more.

Families of all ages and interests can look forward to choosing from a range of inspiring hotels and resorts in prime locations such as Varadero, HolguĂ­n, Cayo Largo, Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa Maria, and in the historical cities of Havana and Santiago de Cuba.

Create a memorable family vacation with a variety of amenities and features specially designed with kids in mind. Parents and little ones alike can look forward to endless fun and excitement in a safe environment with features such as action-packed mini and teens clubs, colourful playgrounds, gaming rooms, dedicated kids pools, mini-golf parks and more.

The whole family can get together to enjoy many other activities available such as boogie boarding, snorkelling, windsurfing, and more depending on the resort selected.

And when it comes to dining, the little ones will enjoy the menu made just for kids. However if parents are looking to enjoy some downtime, they can treat themselves to relaxing massages at the renowned YHI Spa at select hotels while the kids are enjoying supervised activities.

For the ultimate in relaxed indulgence, upgrade to Family Concierge at Paradisus Varadero to enjoy exclusive privileges and facilities, or upgrade to The Level at Melia Marina Varadero for added values such as personalized check-in and check-out, discounted spa treatments, priority at restaurant bookings, access to exclusive VIP lounges and more.

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MELIA

MARINA VARADERO

– A Family Vacation with Endless Fun

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Families that enjoy a blend of nature and activity will find the setting at Meliá Marina Varadero complements their vacation needs. Surrounded by a bustling marina that hosts a number of enticing attractions, including several restaurants, a jazz bar, artisanal shops and more, this tranquil and modern all inclusive resort has everything for a family vacation.

Offering the perfect setting from which to explore the Caribbean Sea, in addition to yachting, sailing along the coast, diving in clear waters, or fishing for marine life, the resort is a few steps away from a glistening beach equipped with complimentary sunshades, lifeguards, towels, and a bar, and is ideal for lazy family days. Children will love making sandcastles and splashing in shallow waters as you lounge in sunbeds.

Plus, this resort is designed with families’ comfort in mind as this unique property offers traditional accommodations in the hotel in addition to modern apartments in the resort’s condo section. Families can enjoy their favourite home comforts in a tropical setting with fully-equipped kitchens in these one, two, or three-bedroom apartments which offer beautiful views of Marina Gaviota Punta Hicacos.

FAMILY FUN A happy family is the best part of a vacation and Meliá Marina Varadero makes this happen with complimentary child facilities that include a daily kids club, game room, two pools and more. Plus, popular Cuban characters are there to provide entertainment and lead younger guests through various activities, such as painting, dancing, and storytelling. An extensive program of activities led by a highly qualified team of professional staff will ensure everyone enjoys their vacation.

Some of the best family moments are spent while sharing a meal together. Meliá Marina Varadero has seven all inclusive restaurants and snack bars to choose from offering a range of cuisines to suit all tastes.

With so many activities and excursions to choose from, it’s always nice to have some insider tips and information to help plan out your next stay in Cuba. For more adventure, take the family to the Dolphinarium to play with the most lovable creatures around.

Look for family-travel blogger, Dominique Lessard’s full review of Melia Marina Varadero in the next issue of Kidcations for vacation insights, advice, and more.

Join

Kidc at io n Tes te r

Mylianne

at Memories Holguin Beach Resort

By Abygayle Norris

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Meet Kidcationer Mylianne. Her contagious smile and bubbling personality earned her a spot on the Kidcations team last season. This little girl’s essentials for a perfect vacation included an incredible beach that she could play on all day long, plenty of desserts, and exciting activities she could enjoy with her loved ones. Memories Holguin Beach Resort in Cuba has ticked all the boxes.

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Mylianne, her parents and two little brothers really put this family-friendly resort to the test. With so many inclusions available, they never ran out of options for fun! The kids had a blast playing on the beach and looking for seashells, and Mylianne loved splashing around in the pool with her dad. This resort features five pools, two of which are dedicated kids pools ,and one features a waterfall. At the twostorey kids club (the largest in Cuba), Mylianne and her little brother, Karl-Frederick, enjoyed playing a round of volleyball with Toopy and Binoo and watching the characters’ live kids show. And while the kids were busy playing, mom and dad were able to relax at the resort spa, and the lounge by the shore with a cocktail from the beach bar.

Mylianne and her family were excited to explore all Holguin had to offer throughout the week. Their Sunwing Experiences excursion to Biopark Rocazul was a big hit, where they got to feed ostriches and see other exotic species like baby alligators, monkeys, and parrots – one even sat on Mylianne’s head! The family also enjoyed a sunny catamaran ride, where they got to see the beautiful landscapes of Holguin from the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

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Mylianne and her family found there were lots of dining options to choose from at the resort with four Ă la carte restaurants, a buffet and a snack bar. Some of their favourite dining experiences were the Italian restaurant for pizza, the kid-friendly breakfast buffet, and the special lobster dinner for the parents on the gazebo.

Overall this family-friendly resort certainly met Mylianne’s high expectations. This savvy young traveller loved playing on the beach in the warm Caribbean surf, splashing in the pool with her family, enjoying yummy meals from the resort restaurants and making new friends with Toopy and Binoo. The whole family had a great time from start to finish at Memories Holguin Beach Resort and can’t wait to go back.

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Life’s a beach in

Antigua

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Get ready to sink your toes into the soft sands of Antigua! This tropical paradise in the West Indies offers 365 sparkling white-sand beaches along its beautiful coast, and its protected bays and calm waters make it the perfect destination for travelling with kids.

With a beach for every day of the year, travellers will never run out of options to choose from, whether it’s making a sand castle , snorkelling in the crystal-clear shallow waters

in search of colourful fish, or simply kicking back and relaxing in a hammock with a refreshing drink in hand.

It may be hard to tear yourself away from the beach, but there’s much more to see in Antigua than sun and sand.

Head to the capital of St. John’s to wander its colonial streets, and then visit English Harbour to see where the pirates and British Navy landed – you might even find some treasure!

There are plenty of opportunities for play in this adventurer’s playground. Take in the world-class sailing regatta in the spring, where hundreds of yachts gather around the island to compete, or embark on your own sailing tour of the island with a Hobie cat ride. Golferss can tee off at a championship golf course, which provides beautiful panoramic views of the island and the coast, while watersport enthusiasts can windsurf or kitesurf in some of the best conditions in the Caribbean.

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Expect excellence from Coast to Coast

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Set in breathtaking locations on the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines of Mexico, Grand Velas Resorts redefine luxury by bringing you gourmet dining, world-class spas, and attentive service wherever you stay.

Ideal for family vacations, these resorts celebrate the best of each season from Summer Camp adventures in July and August to festive events, optional in-suite Christmas tree and wrapped presents, to a spectacular New Year’s Eve party during the holidays.

Kids of all ages also get the VIP attention they deserve, with all locations equipped with an exclusive teens club and kids club for innovative youngsters. Tiny travellers are not forgotten either.

The baby concierge provides all the comforts of home - from cribs and baby chairs at no additional cost, to complimentary welcome kits that include pacifiers to baby bottles.

Grand Velas Los Cabos With breathtaking Pacific Ocean vistas, Grand Velas Los Cabos redefines luxury and relaxation with artfully designed Jacuzzi suites and 24-hour concierge service. This luxurious resort offers lavish accommodation options, with spacious living area, private balcony or terrace, and upgrades such as in-suite massages and plunge pool. The resort also boasts superlative culinary experiences with acclaimed chefs creating gastronomic masterpieces.

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Recipient of a Five Diamond AAA rating, a stay at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is an indulgence in opulence. The contemporary architecture and breathtaking landscape set the mood for an afternoon of holistic treatments and massage therapies at the award-winning spa. While the kids discover nature excursions and beach games at the complimentary kids club, adults can immerse themselves in yoga and Pilates classes.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Surrounded by Mayan culture, Grand Velas Rivera Maya is a family retreat like no other. Teens can escape to their own hangout and nightly disco, while younger children will enjoy making piĂąatas and watching movies in the complimentary kids club. Quality family time can be spent enjoying resort activities, including snorkelling, treasure hunts, and much more.

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splash Jump in

By Cortney Cook

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and make a

™

When it comes to vacation thrills, few things compare to zooming down a waterslide or performing the perfect cannonball into the pool. Kids (and kids at heart!) can spend hours testing out the twists and turns on slides, or pretending to be pirates on ship-themed water playgrounds at a number of top-rated resorts famed for their water attractions.

Sunwing makes it easy for families to choose their ideal splash vacation with SplashWorld™, a collection of family-friendly resorts that benefit from a waterpark right on site, or enjoy convenient access to one nearby. All you have to do is look for the SplashWorld™ logo when booking your vacation!

If you’re not sure which resort has the right amount of splash for you and the family, we’ve helped narrow things down to some of our favourite SplashWorld™ resorts.

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MEMORIES SPLASH PUNTA CANA

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™ A SLIDE-FANATIC’S PARADISE Boasting the largest on-site resort waterpark in the Caribbean, Memories Splash Punta Cana will have children of all ages ready to slip and slide all day long.* The complex is made up of splash pads, spray grounds, pools, tubes and even a wave pool, so the entire family can play together. Adrenaline junkies will love the monster-sized waterslides for kids aged 10 years and up which feature seven thrill-inducing slides. The multi-lane chute is perfect for the whole family, letting brothers, sisters, dad, or mom all race each other down its four lanes at incredible speed! Or, experience a high octane, gravity-defying adrenaline rush as you descend the Kamikaze Waterslide, with its dizzying 15-metre vertical drop. Even those a little nervous of heights will be begging to go again after their first zip down this slide.

For little ones, the splash park has plenty of slides for children six and younger, and The Falls with its fun twists and turns for children six to eight years old, or the Ramp offers a short and straight zoom right into a kids’ pool. With the Snakes Waterslides, children can experience the thrill of whizzing down a big water chute with short and open routes that still offer a fun curve that will have them begging to go again.

Plus, guests who stay at Royalton Punta Cana Resort and Casino also enjoy free access to this incredible and exciting waterpark. *On-site waterslides accessibility starts for children two years and up.

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™

JEWEL RUNAWAY BAY BEACH AND GOLF RESORT

WILD WATER FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Offering Montego Bay’s largest waterpark, this resort not only features thrilling slides for kids and adults, but it includes a host of unique activities, like movies you can watch right from the pool. When you’re not spending time at the Dive-In, grab a tube for a relaxing float down the lazy river which is framed with rock grottos and waterfalls so you can hop off and splash around, or casually float along. When the kids need a little pick-me-up, they can snack on a snow cone at the Pirate Ice Hut or enjoy some of their favourite grills at the on-site dining area with a bar and grill.

Toddlers can easily join in on the splashing with the beach lagoon that features gentle splashing geysers. The splash zone includes multi-level slides just for younger children, while the bigger kids (and adults too) can zoom along some of the larger slides that feature thrilling twists and turns.

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SUNSCAPE SPLASH MONTEGO BAY

WALK THE BEACH, OR WALK THE PLANK! This popular resort in Jamaica takes water fun seriously with a massive castle-inspired waterpark, a life-like pirate ship and a relaxing lazy river. There’s no better place for playtime than the pirate ship in the middle of the lazy river where you can wave at others floating on their tubes.

The resort is also located within Montego Bay Marine Park, an underwater national park perfect for kids who want to experience the area’s unique natural attractions. With snorkelling and swimming areas, this eco-park is a water paradise for travellers of all ages.

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ROYALTON BLUE WATERS & ROYALTON WHITE SANDS MONTEGO BAY

FLOAT ON OR SLIP AND SLIDE Guests staying at either Royalton Blue Waters or Royalton White Sands resorts in Montego Bay will enjoy access to all the facilities across both locations. The best part is that right in-between these two properties is an exciting piratethemed splash park!

Complete with a pirate-ship play structure and surrounding wading pool, kids can spend hours pretending to be swashbucklers and sail the seas, zoom down the shorter slides, or wait for the Captain’s orders and tip one of the big buckets of water onto all their friends. Tiny tots can enjoy the shallow waters with fun fish to climb on, while daredevils can climb the tower to whizz down the wildest water chutes, with plenty of twists and turns. For those who prefer to kick back and relax, simply grab a tube and float along the lazy river at Royalton Blue Waters that winds through the resort.

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RIU HOTELS AND RESORTS

A WORLD OF SPLASH-WORTHY FUN Recently opened in 2016, Splash Water World in Punta Cana is RIU Hotels and Resorts’ first water attractions facility that can be accessed and enjoyed while staying at any one of the 4 RIU properties in the Dominican Republic: Riu Naiboa, Riu Bambu, Riu Palace Bavaro, and Riu Palace Punta Cana. Kids and parents alike can enjoy unlimited waterpark fun during their stay at any of these resorts.

Satisfying the demands of even the most daring guests, Splash Water World boasts adrenaline-pumping slides such as a fourlane high speed slide, or one that propels a person towards a pool, or even a free-falling slide. For younger visitors, the facility carries a children’s pool with slides and special attractions just for them.

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™

COCO KEY HOTEL AND WATERPARK WATERSLIDES, ARCADE GAMES, AND PLAYGROUNDS GALORE This Florida resort has more than its fair share of SplashWorld™ fun to try as it features a 54, 000 square-foot waterpark. Do you dare to ride all the twist and turns of the Cyclone waterslide?

The Boomerango sends you down a ramp and up a watery wall for a slippery back and forth ride. Little ones can spend hours at the smaller Parrot’s Perch Playground where a jungle gym and splashing buckets await. With 14 slides throughout the park, plus an arcade centre, there’s plenty to keep all ages busy.

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SANDOS CARACOL ECO RESORT

â„¢

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ADRENALINE-PUMPING THRILLS While this resort may be located on a beautiful tranquil beach in Playa Del Carmen, it boasts some of best water activities in Mexico. Reviewed by Kidcation Aziz, this resort recently expanded its waterpark to add some of the wildest waterslides out there. The resort had recently added a new splash area and seven new slides to create a whopping total of 29 slides to whoosh down, so needless to say the waterpark kept Aziz and his family busy for a while. If that’s not enough, there’s a ton of complimentary watersports to enjoy such as kayaking, snorkeling, water polo, water volleyball, boogie boarding, and a free introductory scuba diving lesson in the pool (per stay).

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A relaxing family

fiesta

Manzanillo

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Situated on a stunning stretch of Pacific coastline sprinkled with banana and coconut palms, and fringed by endless sandy bays, Manzanillo offers a unique blend of beach relaxation and ecotourism adventures.

From deep-sea fishing and worldclass snorkelling to hiking and bird watching in nature reserves, Manzanillo is a premier destination for nature lovers of all types.

Culture Visit the recently renovated historic centre and stroll along pedestrian walkways as you discover the local boutiques, bars, and cafés. Here, you can experience the warmth and artistry of Manzanillo’s people, while shopping for handcrafted souvenirs and indulging in delicious Colima ceviche, the town’s signature dish. Then take the family up to Mirador Las Hadas to appreciate the inspiring views of golden beaches and the twin bays hugging the Pacific Ocean that have served as the setting for a number of iconic films.

Fish Fun The surrounding warm Pacific waters are home to an abundance of marine life making it a worldclass location for deep-sea fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving. Named the “Sailfish Capital of the World”, professionals and amateur anglers alike won’t want to miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to catch fresh tropical fish and then feast on a traditional Manzanillo preparation at a local restaurant.

Eco-Adventure If the family is looking for more thrills, an ATV tour through the Sierra del Madre Occidental mountains should do the trick. The panoramic view from Cerro del Torro reveals the twin volcanoes of Colima and the expansive breathtaking landscape. Keep your eyes open for some of the most colourful birds anywhere in Mexico, before making your way to Cuyutlan’s black beach for some superior surfing.

The unending majestic beauty of Manzanillo is the perfect backdrop for a memorable family vacation.

Come for the relaxation, but stay for the adventure.

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Famil y Vacation CONCEPT BY

BE LIVE HOTELS At Be Live Collection Punta Cana we start by helping Mom and Dad prepare for family vacations. We know how stressful travelling with children can be, which is why we have created Better Together, family packages with activities for all ages. For reservations of our Family Rooms (ideal for the whole family), we offer worry-free services and areas, and extra perks that families will fully enjoy. From the moment of your arrival until check-out we offer personalized service for an unforgettable stay.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation to Punta Cana.

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Two vacations in one in

Panama Where the Caribbean meets the Pacific, Panama is a tropical paradise that offers the best of city highlights and natural beauty. The sparkling white-sand beaches, lush landscapes and friendly culture make this beautiful country an ideal destination for families.

To get that perfect blend, you can head to Panama City to explore its vibrant culture, historical sights, and colourful markets. No visit to the city is complete with seeing its famous canal. Children will love this ‘living history’ lesson as they explore one of mankind’s greatest engineering feats.

The city is also a vibrant shopping hub with its local markets and designer boutiques, and even the pickiest of eaters will find something to satisfy their palette with a wide range of delicious cuisine options. Beyond the canal, there are rivers and lush rainforests to explore; a favourite with tiny travellers is sure to be Monkey Island!

The coastline of this Central American escape is dotted with endless sparkling shores that are perfect for soaking up some sun or building sandcastles. Visit the stunning whitesand beaches of Isla Zapatillas—home to the endangered hawksbill turtles. Or, cruise the shores of San Blas Islands where you’ll find calm shallow cays and uninhabited islands.

There are plenty of opportunities for adventure on land too in this lush destination. Discover a wealth of diverse species while hiking through the magnificent jungle, where you may even come across howler monkeys, sloths, and more. If you’re looking to get your adrenaline pumping you can fly high above the rainforest canopy on a zipline tour, with lower ziplines for the little ones.

In Panama, you’ll never run out of options for fun in the sun!

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Top

Kid-f

Getting the most out of your vacation often comes down to the experiences you have while you’re away, whether it’s building a sandcastle on the beach with the family, enjoying a memorable dinner together, or going off on incredible adventures. With Sunwing Experiences, your family can choose from an extensive selection of tours and excursions offered by local destination experts to make sure everyone has the best vacation experience and returns home with a host of new memories. Whether you’re looking to soak up some culture or seek some adventure, there’s an excursion for every member of the family!

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-friendly Fit for Families

Excursions

By Abygayle Norris

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AQUATIC EXPERIENCES Most children love playing in the sea or the pool, so picking a water-based excursion is a sure fire way of getting little ones excited to board the tour bus for the day. Many destinations feature expansive waterparks, where kids can play all day whether it’s sliding down the waterslides or splashing around the wave pools. Looking to explore the deep blue? Most catamaran excursions and snorkelling tours allow children to participate, so the whole family can have a blast exploring the underwater world! Top picks include the Aquaventure Water Park in Nassau with 18 exciting waterslides (including the Serpent Slide that takes you through a shark-filled lagoon) and snorkelling in search of sting rays at Xcaret EcoPark in Playa del Carmen.

Xcaret EcoPark in Playa del Carmen

Camilla Pucholt Photography

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For more information about family-friendly excursions, visit sunwing.ca/excursions

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES There are plenty of cultural excursions that both parents and children will enjoy. Parents can soak up the culture and history of the destination while kids can let their imaginations run wild as they explore a living museum. Kids will love hearing about the buccaneer pirates that hid their treasures in the Dominican Republic or learning about the ancient Mayan civilizations in Mexico. Highlights include exploring old pirate hideouts in Santo Domingo, getting up close to the ancient Mayan culture at the magical pyramids of Chichen Itza and spotting massive ships passing through the Panama Canal.

ADVENTURE EXPERIENCES Adrenaline-junkies have lots of options to get their blood pumping with exciting and adventurous excursions, and there are plenty of opportunities for adventure for even the youngest members of the family! Some zipline tours allow kids as young as five to join in the fun, whether it’s riding tandem with a parent or flying solo on a mini-zipline tour. Firm favourites include flying across the kids zipline tour at Bavaro Adventure Park in Punta Cana, going for a cable car ride up Isabel de Torres Mountain in Puerto Plata and taking an exciting bobsled ride down Jamaica’s Mystic Mountain.

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ECO EXPERIENCES PLAN AHEAD You can’t visit the Caribbean without exploring the diverse wildlife that lives both under the sea and on land. Many destinations offer family-friendly options for exploring the natural wildlife and landscapes such as guided boat tours and Jeep safaris; kids and parents will have a blast searching for exotic species such as whales, monkeys, sloths and more! When it comes to the family favourite of swimming with dolphins; many dolphin enclosures now offer interactions geared towards non-swimmers, offering pools with knee-deep waters. Options also include taking a boat ride to Monkey Island in Costa Rica and swimming with dolphins in Montego Bay.

Pre-book your excursions before you depart at Sunwing.ca.

That way you can pay in Canadian dollars—and there’s plenty of time for you and your family to research the adventure that awaits!

Not sure which adventure to choose? Get the entire family’s input – you might be surprised by what your kids want to explore. Pack each child a notebook and a disposable camera and encourage them to document what they discover. We guarantee the memories will last long after the tan fades.

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Sandos believes that all inclusive beach vacations aren’t just for grownups, which is why their Cabo and Playa del Carmen resorts offer one-of-a-kind family activities and kids clubs open until 10pm. Pack all your suitcases and bring the whole family down to Mexico’s best beach destinations to discover everything Sandos has for kids and teens… and yes, for kids-at-heart, too!

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort in Playa del Carmen lets you slide into fun at a thrilling waterpark with a colourful splash-and-slide area for little kids, and daring slides designed for the bigger kids. The Eco-kids will like swimming in the natural cenote, along with the eco activities like wild animal photo tours, jungle survival skills and feeding the rescue animals at the Mini Farm.

Ocean-obsessed kids will go wild when they see the beach at Sandos Playacar Beach Resort in Playa del Carmen, where the All Playa Experience hosts daily beach parties. Reviewed by Kidcationer Wyatt, this resort’s kids club has its own treehouse and kiddie pool, while teens ages 13 to 17 won’t want to leave the Lite Teen Club and its arcade, video game stations, dance floor and non-alcoholic bar. Or the whole family can get together and play a round at the miniature golf course, or visit the Cupcake Café for tempting treats.

Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos provides a jaw-dropping setting between the ocean and the bay for a family getaway in Cabo San Lucas. The kids club has all-day supervised activities like games and crafts, while the gorgeous beachfront pool area has organized sports and games. If you have adventure-seeking kids, the Marina is right by the hotel with family-friendly tours to explore nearby natural attractions.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

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Stay Stay

cool cool Sandos at

at Sandos

Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos Sandos Playacar Beach Resort Sandos Caracol Eco Resort

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Family fun in the sun with

GAVIOTA HOTELS

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Get ready for a truly memorable tropical getaway with the family. Located amongst green landscapes hugging stretches of golden beaches, Gaviota Hotels in Cuba offer families a solid blend of fun, relaxation, and entertainment in top vacation destinations such as Cayo Santa Maria, Cayo Coco and Holguin.

Whether hiking, snorkelling, or exploring spectacular beaches, the resorts in Holguin provide ideal settings for family adventures. Sitting on golden sand, Playa Costa Verde has all the ingredients for fun, offering dance lessons, sailing, windsurfing, and more. Jumping in the freshwater pool or enjoying a treat at the ice cream parlour is a perfect way to relax under the tropical sun.

At Playa Pesquero Hotel, in Holguin, families will love to visit Bahia de Naranjo and Dolphinarium to take a seafari, and interact with dolphins. Back at the resort, children will love making a splash in the pool complex with a dedicated kids pool, while Mom and Dad cool off by the ocean or relax at the lobby bar.

For those seeking beach relaxation, the secluded all inclusive Playa Cayo Santa Maria could be ideal place, as it lies on a quiet beach that is perfect for lounging and leisure aquatic activities.

Those with an adventurous side could choose Playa Coco, a welcoming beachfront resort that offers shared family adventures packed with entertainment: from snorkelling at a beautiful coral reef, to horseback riding along the golden beaches, a vacation here won’t soon be forgotten.

You can also visit Plaza La Estrella, Plaza Las Dunas and Plaza Las Terrazas in Cayo Santa María; Plaza Los Flamencos in Cayo Coco; Plaza Pesquero in Holguin.

For more details, contact your travel agent or connect with us at sunwing.ca — your #1 to the sun and #1 for family vacations.

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Join

Kidc at io n Tes te r

Aziz

at the Sandos Caracol Eco Resort

By Cortney Cook If there’s a thrill out there, Kidcation tester, Aziz, is sure to find it. This energetic 11 year old from Mississauga is always smiling, especially while he’s keeping busy with all his activities such as soccer in the summer and hockey in the winter. We decided he was the perfect candidate to try out Sandos Caracol Eco Resort. Located in Riviera Maya, Mexico, this resorts offers a wide range of activities, sports and adventures for guests of all ages.

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n

Since Aziz loves high octane thrills, it would only make sense that one of his first stops would be the recently expanded waterpark to test which slides were the wildest. The resort had recently added a new splash area and seven new slides to create a whopping total of 29 slides to whoosh down, so needless to say the waterpark kept Aziz and his family busy for a while.

The kids club also offered a number of fun and exciting supervised activities, including a jungle gym, a trampoline, beach soccer, volleyball, a mini movie theater and mini disco—just to name a few. Aziz also took advantage of a number of other complimentary activities such as beach volleyball, football, kayaking, snorkelling, and boogie boarding.

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History always seems to get a bad rep for being boring, but Aziz found that Sandos Caracol really made it fun! The resort hosts regular evening Xcalacoco Events that immerse you in the ancient history of the Mayans and how they lived, and the story of the region’s exciting culture.

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In between all that fun and excitement, a guy has got to eat! Thankfully, Sandos Caracol has eight restaurants to choose from with a wide range of dining options to please the whole family: from vegetarian to Brazillian beef to sushi and more— making sure everyone’s taste buds were happy.

Aziz’s final verdict for Sandos Caracol Eco Resort: two thumbs up and a big smile!

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Destination: Dominican Republic

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Prepare for an ocean of excitement and fun with a family vacation to the island paradise of the Dominican Republic.

Bursting with diverse wildlife and filled with adventure, the Dominican Republic is a Caribbean jewel surrounded by clear turquoise waters hugging over 400km of the world’s most beautiful sandy white beaches.

Whether you’re building sandcastles on the golden sands of Puerto Plata, exploring the historical treasures of Santo Domingo, snorkelling off the white-sand beaches in Punta Cana or teeing off at a Championship golf course in La Romana, the Dominican Republic has something for everyone.

Immerse yourself in the island’s rich heritage as you explore the cobbled streets and historic landmarks of Santo Domingo. Widely considered to be the oldest city in the Americas, visitors are entranced by its Latin history, vibrant culture and cosmopolitan style. Then, discover coffee plantations, lush rainforests and sparkling waterfalls, teeming with colourful wildlife and beauty on a Jeep safari.

Try world class kitesurfing in Puerto Plata, before spending dreamy days on its tranquil beaches and peaceful lagoons.

Or if it’s a vacation of luxury and exclusivity filled with lush greenery and warm Caribbean air, both Punta Cana or La Romana offer numerous top-rated golf courses, world-renowned beaches, thrilling watersports, and ecoadventures running through the countryside and park reserves.

These idyllic settings were made to be enjoyed.

Perfect for a memorable family vacation, the Dominican Republic truly has it all.

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Calling

kidcation

testers

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Your family could win a family getaway to one of Sunwing’s best family resorts!

Kidcation Tester Contest

The search continues for Sunwing’s charismatic Kidcation Testers!

As a Sunwing Kidcation Tester, your kids’ very important duties include: · Jumping on the bounciest beds · Sampling the tastiest ice cream flavours · Trying out everything from cookie decorating to t-shirt printing at the coolest kids clubs · Slipping and sliding down the wettest water slides, and so much more! · With Go-Pro in hand, your kids will get to document their wildest moments and share them with other families looking to plan their next Kidcations!

Entering is easy!

Simply Like the Sunwing Vacations Facebook page and stay tuned for more details about our next Kidcation Tester Contest!

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A new way for families and kids of all ages to spend a whole day of fun! Jewel Lagoon Water Park is full of splash-worthy fun, and features over 10 attractions for toddlers through teens. The aquatic parks include: A family raft ride, private cabanas for rent, 5,000 square foot oceanfront sundeck, dining area with full-service bar and grill, zero-entry beach lagoon with geysers, two splash-down pools, kids gang slide, lazy river with rock grottos and waterfalls, a stage featuring daily live music, multi-level kids slides and splash zone, as well as private lockers and locker rooms. Our new water park in Jamaica has everyone saying, “I never want to leave!�

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation.

for a splash!

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A whole

country to explore

Cuba is a tropical paradise full of fun and excitement

Guiñol, circus shows at the Carpa Trompoloco or a train ride

for the young, and the young at heart. No matter

around Parque Lenin.

where you travel, you won’t be far from entertaining options that cater to the whole family.

Avid beachgoers that love to soak up the sun will find beautiful stretches of pristine white-sand in Varadero that

Kids can even have fun while learning a bit of history here. You can hop aboard a steam train for a ride around the historic sugar mills in the Valle de Ingenios just outside of Trinidad; or the rugged Grupo Maniabón mountains in Holguín.

just beckon visitors to pull up a lounger or build a sandcastle.

Pinar del Río appeals to the adventurers with activities such

Little ones that love animals and exploring nature will find

as a thrilling boat tour on an underground river deep inside

swimming with the dolphins in places such as the Delfinarios

the Cueva del Indio, where you’ll find stalactites, stalagmites

in Varadero, Cienfuegos, the Acuario Baconao in Santiago, or the

and flying bats. Sports enthusiasts will find themselves right at

fun Parque Natural Bahía de Naranjo an absolute blast. Discover

home in Cuba as the national sport, baseball, or ‘pelota’ as they

exciting wildlife at the Parque Zoológico Nacional such as rhinos,

call it comes with grandiose celebration that involves lots of

lions and hippos. Or, visit a real crocodile breeding farm - like the

music and cheering.

one at Boca de Guamá, in Matanzas. Take in a real rodeo on Isla

With something for everyone, Cuba is perfect for family vacations.

Turiguanó near Cayo Coco, or explore the island on horseback.

City dwellers can become immersed in Havana’s highlights such as the nightly Cañonazo (cannon ceremony) at the Parque Histórico Militar Morro-Cabaña, puppet shows at the Teatro

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5

Top

Reasons to get off the beach

and get on the boat!

MSC Cruise Ships

By: Abygayle Norris

There was a time when taking a cruise meant wearing your fanciest jewels and tuxedo while socializing in ritzy restaurants or bars. The focus was on adults and glitzy parties – not on family fun and exciting activities. Nowadays cruising is for all ages and the latest ships are designed with families in mind. From action-packed activities to exciting excursions, there are so many reasons why you should consider a cruise for your next family getaway.

Action Packed Activities

Space for Everyone

One phrase you’re very unlikely to hear your children utter when they are at sea is “I’m bored…” From sprawling waterparks to minigolf courses and rock climbing walls, you’ll never run out of things to do. Most cruise lines, such as MSC Cruises, also offer daily activities catering to all ages so every member of the family will have a blast enjoying everything from a treasure hunt to a salsa dance lesson.

A common cruise myth is that the staterooms are tiny, cramped and not suited for families.

The reality could not be more different. Many ships offer comfortable family suites, such as TUI Discovery 2’s outside stateroom that sleeps up to four guests, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s balcony stateroom that sleeps up to four guests. Some ships even offer bunk beds, which are sure to be a big hit with the kids! And of course, you can’t beat the shifting views of sparkling blue waters and tropical

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isles outside your stateroom window.

MSC Cruise Ship Rooms

MSC

MSC Kids Play area

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MSC Ships

Fun for the Whole Family Cruises take family-friendly fun to a whole new level.

You won’t have to worry about keeping the kids entertained for the day as they’ll have a blast making new friends at the daily kid and teen clubs on board that offer a wide range of activities for different age groups. Many ships also offer state-of-the-art modern facilities for the tech-savvy kids of the family, like the Gamerzone arcade on board TUI Discovery 2, and the unique Slideboarding waterslide game on board MSC Seaside. Of course, kids aren’t the only ones who get to have fun on board! While the kids are having a blast at the kid’s clubs, there are plenty of activities for adults to enjoy including evening shows, pampering spa treatments and relaxing adult pool decks. Parents aboard MSC Cruises can also enjoy a romantic meal alone with the complimentary Fun Time Dinners, where kids can dine with the kid club staff at the buffet while parents enjoy some private time.

Exciting Excursions One of the most unique and exciting things about taking a cruise is that you get to explore multiple destinations while only having to unpack once.

Whether it’s exploring Mayan pyramids in Mexico, watching planes land right over the beach in St. Maarten, or whizzing down world-class water slides at Atlantis in Nassau, The Bahamas, you’ll find you’ll pack so much more in on a cruise vacation. When it comes to how to spend time in each port of call, most cruise lines offer plenty of family-friendly shore excursions so you can go off the ship and explore these destinations, whether you’re looking for a high-adrenaline tour or a leisurely coach excursion. Parents with younger children will appreciate MSC Cruises family excursions that are tailored towards families with kids; the tours are only a couple of hours long and are supervised by a kids club staff member.

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The Price is Right Another misconception about cruising is that it’s expensive. Much like any vacation there are cruises for every budget. Considering everything that’s included, from entertainment and dining to kids programs, sports and amenities, cruises are actually very affordable. MSC Opera and TUI Discovery 2 both have all inclusive beverage packages where guests can enjoy unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the trip. What’s more with a cruise, you get to explore more than one beautiful destination during your vacation.

Cruise with Sunwing Sunwing’s cruise packages with MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, or TUI 2 include convenient round-trip flights, pier transfers, stateroom of your choice, meals on board and more. Set sail and create memories to last a lifetime as you explore beautiful ports of call.

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kidcation

Never a dull moment on MSC

By Jaime Damak

This summer, we challenged self-confessed beach lover and family travel blogger, Jaime Damak, to swap her lounge chair for deckchair on board MSC Cruises.

Here’s what she and her family thought of their first time at sea.

“I have to admit that when it comes to vacations, I tend to gravitate towards all inclusive beach resorts. So when the opportunity of trying out a weeklong Caribbean cruise with MSC Cruises and Sunwing came along, I had to think twice since I didn’t know what to expect.

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I could not have been more pleasantly surprised, in fact there was never a dull moment. Our ship was basically a floating city with anything and everything your family could possibly need. The kids especially had a great time playing in the sports complex and splashing around at the Aqua Park, while I got to enjoy some pampering at the spa and a wine blending session with my husband.

While we were docked in Nassau, the whole family got

Tas

d! o o ty F

to enjoy a shore excursion to Balmoral Island, a private beach paradise where we tried out exciting activities including snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding.

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The restaurants on board were simply delicious. There were plenty of kid-friendly options at the wide range of restaurants included at no extra charge. However if you do want to treat yourself to something special where the children can come along, the upgraded options were also very family friendly. We loved Eataly Steakhouse, where the kids got to learn how to make their own pizzas. While we had been concerned about hidden charges before we got on board we found that with the beverage package – that offers guests an unlimited selection of drinks on board – our time on board was hassle free.

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ng i t s a T e Win All my previous doubts about cruising had completely disappeared by the time it came time to disembark.

On the last evening, our cruise director took the mic to wish us well and ended his speech with an Italian word: ‘arrivederci’, meaning, ‘until next time’. It was the perfect word to sum up how we felt about our first cruise experience: we will certainly be back!

So m

eR&

R

Dessert

!

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Setting sail is as easy as 1, 2, 3 when you choose MSC Cruises. There are

at the mini and junior clubs, designed in partnership with LEGOÂŽ, while

activities for the whole family to enjoy - from exciting kids clubs and

adults can take in a Broadway style show in the Metropolitan Theatre.

magnificent Aqua Parks to varied dining options and family entertainment.

MSC Opera

Choose from two glamorous ships and get ready to cruise the sparkling turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Even better, kids aged 11 years and under sail free on the MSC Seaside* !

Offering unique itineraries to Cuba and the Caribbean from Havana, this recently-renovated ship offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Younger travellers will have a blast making new friends at the LEGOÂŽ Kids Club and

MSC Seaside

Teens Club, getting their video game fix at the Virtual World Arcade, and

Setting sail from Port Miami, this brand new ship will be cruising the

enjoy some fun in the sun at the Spray Park. While the kids are playing,

Western and Eastern Caribbean starting in December 2017. The kid-friendly

parents can indulge in a luxurious treatment at Aurea Spa. Plus, there

vessel boasts one of the largest and most interactive Aqua Parks at sea

are plenty of delicious dining options that the whole family will enjoy

with five different waterslides including the ultra-modern Slideboarding

including an outdoor grill/pizzeria, a family buffet and an ice cream bar.

technology (which combines a waterslide and fun game in one). There are

Many staterooms also offer balconies or oceanviews from which you can

also a wide variety of dining options to please even the pickiest of eaters,

take in gorgeous views and a nightcap when the children have gone to

from family buffets and pizzerias to steakhouses and an ice cream bar;

sleep to round off the end of another memorable day at sea.

perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or dessert. Kids will have a blast playing * subject to availability

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Family Club

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Discover a unique way to enjoy Riviera Maya with your kids and the whole family at the Family Club at Grand Riviera Princess All Suites & Spa Resort. Here, guests will find superb services and amenities to please every member of the family; from the smallest travellers to the most discerning adults.

This new section of the resort features 144 rooms (40 with direct pool access) fully prepared and designed with families in mind. Two double beds or one king size bed and bunk beds mean that everyone in the family is taken care of.

At Princess Resorts, we’ve thought of everything, leaving you to enjoy the warm Caribbean days with your family – stress free.

Discover all our Family Club has to offer, and start to imagine an all inclusive family holiday at a luxury hotel in Riviera Maya.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

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See you at

Riu

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Exclusively offered by Sunwing as part of the Signature Collection.

It is the wide range of activities that make RIU Hotels & Resorts stand out. RIU Hotels & Resorts family-friendly properties offer a plethora of water activities and sports, and a whole world of fun for the youngest of travellers in your family, ensuring everyone will have an unforgettable experience.

Riuland: Run, jump, dance and smile with Calú.

Come and meet Calú, a friendly sea turtle born on one of RIU’s wonderful beaches. After meeting the friendly hotel entertainers and their young guests, Calú fell in love with this world of activities and fun. Calú invites families to visit and experience the RiuLand entertainment program, where children come first.

Plus, with facilities such as swimming pools with slides, water games and competitions, outdoor recreational areas, play areas inside the hotel and even Calú’s dance routine, a full program of fun for all the family awaits you every day on your vacation.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation.

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Re laxation

guaranteed at Riu Jalisco kidcation

Founding member of Alberta Mamas, Deanne Ferguson is a happily married mom of two active boys. When she is not talking about Harry Potter and building Lego with her kids she is busy planning fun, family-friendly events in Edmonton, Alberta and writing for her blog.

By Deanne Ferguson Deanne Ferguson tells us how a little advance planning ensured that she didn’t need a vacation after her vacation.

Parents will often tell you that taking the kids on vacation can be just as busy as taking them to school. But don’t be dismayed, you and the family can still have a vacation where everyone enjoys all the fun and relaxation involved. Often, it just takes some searching to find what works best for you.

For us, we love taking the kids to Mexico because there is so much to do there, and it is less work for us parents than any other holiday we chose. Plus, we all come back well rested and feeling like we actually got a break.

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When we go to Mexico we always choose to stay at RIU Hotels & Resorts. Their hotels check off all the boxes for us. Beautiful locations, kid friendly, fantastic food, tons of amenities, etc. This trip, we decided to stay at Riu Jalisco in Nuevo Vallarta for two weeks with our kids, who are five and nine. Transfers are always included with Sunwing packages, however we decide to treat ourselves and upgrade to a private transportation to our hotel through Sunwing. After flying with two very active kids, keeping them entertained, finding luggage, and then navigating our way through the airport, it was so nice to get into an airconditioned car and just go and get in the pool as quickly as possible.

As soon as we walked into Riu Jalisco, we were greeted by incredibly friendly staff, and the grounds of the resort were breathtaking. In terms of accommodations, the Family Suite we stayed in is perfect for larger families; both us and the kids were very comfortable. Having that extra space is great, especially if you or the kids are light sleepers.

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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When we went for dinner the first night we were pleasantly surprised by the wide selection of dishes. The buffets were huge and there is enough of a variety each night for both our kids to find something for every meal, which made mealtime so easy.

We spent a great deal of our time by the pools, which were large and surrounded by enough trees that it was easy to find a lounger every morning without rushing down to save a spot. The kids spent hours on the slides, and they loved ordering their favourite fruity drinks at the pool with the swimup bar. Since we’re from the Prairies, we love any chance to swim in an ocean and relax on a beautiful beach, and that was one of the best things about staying at Riu Jalisco. The kids would also grab the free boogie boards and surf it up in the waves. We saw the most beautiful sunsets on that beach, and the kids loved watching the pelicans dive down to get their supper.

By the time our stay was over we were all relaxed, full, tanned and happy. Having a stress free holiday with a family can be hard sometimes but by staying at Riu Jalisco we were able to all have the vacation we wanted. I even read three books!

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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o t r e Pu ta r a l l a V and a r e i v Ri t i r a y Nais

! y l i fam

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Vallarta-Nayarit is the ideal place to spend a family vacation. There is a great variety of hotels that offer facilities and activities suitable for children, such as kids only pools and kids’ clubs. There is a limitless number of tours, excursions and activities in Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit, whether you choose to stroll along the Malecon enjoy the sculptures or the sunset, participate in a beach volleyball game, or go on a tour where you can swim with dolphins in their natural environment, to make this a unique experience.

Artistic and cultural activities can be also enjoyed with the family, such as exhibits, concerts and various performances at some of the city’s cultural centres, galleries, and theatres. If you love films, you can also enjoy a premiere at various movie theatres in the city.

The fun never ends in this beautiful tourist destination.

Without a doubt Vallarta-Nayarit is an ideal place to spend a family vacation.

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Cuba continues to be one of the most desired destinations in the world. Its blending of cultures, joie de vivre, and warm people attract many visitors year-round. It is a unique chance to discover a world that offers a colourful fusion of colonial architecture and vintage American cars that buzz around the streets.

The IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts in Cuba proudly features a large selection of hotels in various locations throughout the island. Each hotel is surrounded by spectacular scenery, including endless golden beaches, areas of natural paradise, and buildings rich in Cuban history.

Without a doubt, Cuba is an idyllic destination for family vacations. Visitors will find everything within their reach to relax and have fun at the same time. IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts in Cuba has everything for an unforgettable tropical vacation for the whole family.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacations at one of these resorts.

Unforgettable tropical vacations

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Enjoy Acapulco with your

Let´s go to the beach! You don’t have to say much more than that when it comes to Acapulco.

From the hotel zone of Playa Icacos, to Playa Condesa, to the exclusivity of Pichilingue, to the comfort of Punta Diamante, Acapulco’s beaches are world renowned for exceeding expectations.

Acapulco might be known for its parties and nightclubs, but there’s so much more fun and entertainment for all visitors, including families.

For example, El Rollo Waterpark, located in the Golden Zone is more than just pools; you can see amazing seal and dolphin shows, enjoy

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wave pools, water slides, waterfalls and games for the entire family. Just imagine the smiles when your children swim with the dolphins! If the slides are not extreme enough, there are sports that will surely entertain kids of all ages.

Acapulco is known for water sports including water skiing, scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing, body boarding and windsurfing. Growing in popularity, paddle boarding lets you explore the bay of Isaac’s Beach.

For even more family entertainment, Papagayo Park is a great choice. Located in the city centre, the park is the main green area of Acapulco.

Here you’ll find bike paths, pools, tennis courts, a lagoon, a theater and a playground.

Even a walk around the bay can have a touch of culture if you want to give your children (or yourself ) a mini history lesson. For example, you can go to the Museum of Fort San Diego to hear how this site was built in 1616 to repel pirate attacks during the time of the Nao de China, or how the fort was used in battle during the War of Independence.

BUREAU DE PROMOTION TOURISTIQUE D’ACAPULCO

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Sandos Playacar Beach Resort

Kidc at io n Tes ted by

Wyatt

By Cortney Cook

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Lights, camera, action! You’ll normally find Kidcationer Wyatt behind or in front of a camera making YouTube videos in his spare time (with his parents as the film crew)! The budding movie star from Regina, SK, is also a savvy traveller who loves to capture his latest adventures on film. But his biggest adventure yet was testing Sandos Playacar Resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, to make sure it’s truly a resort worthy of a Kidcation.

This artist, foodie, adventurer (and major cannonballer) exuded endless energy and enthusiasm while putting this resort’s facilities to the test. With nine pools including a kids’ pool at this resort, Wyatt was able to show off his cannonball skills, and then head to the expansive beach to splash around in the ocean and build some sandcastles.

Needless to say, the options for fun in the water kept Wyatt busy for a while. Other activities to choose from included a number of water sports such as kayaking, sailing and water aerobics.

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Wyatt quickly discovered that this resort truly caters to families and kids, especially with its spacious rooms designed to accommodate larger families. In particular, the kids club is chocked full of fun activities—with the wide selection of video games being one of Wyatt’s favourite perks at this resort. In his own words, the number of things to do at this resort “will blow your mind”. And while he was busy testing out the kids club, his parents could take advantage of other amenities such as the spa, the adults only fitness centre, nightclub, or adults only pool.

Wyatt also honed his inner cowboy and took on the resort’s mechanical bull. It quickly became one of his favourite features at the resort, so needless to say he probably gained enough practice to likely take on a real bucking bull!

Finally, all that excitement is bound to work up an appetite. Wyatt and his family greatly enjoyed having numerous dining options to choose from at this resort with 10 different restaurants from buffet style to specialty cuisine. However it was dessert that took the cake on this vacation as the resort is home to the delicious Cupcake Café.

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An earthly

paradise Riviera Maya is an ideal place for a family vacation. The combination of wildlife-filledmangrove swamps, coconut trees, and whitesand beaches are ideal for families, where kids can build sand castles and learn new things.

Like every earthly paradise, Riviera Maya is full of ancient human traces. Stones from antique cities and temples inform us of our past while the gentle sea breeze beckons us forward to enjoy family moments in the present.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation in this destination.

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When choosing a vacation, finding ideal family-friendly resorts that cater to kids, teens, and parents can be tricky.

One hotel chain, however, continually comes up in conversation – Palladium Resorts and Hotels.

Palladium: A popular pick for family vacations!

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Palladium Hotels & Resorts’ supervised kids clubs entice with daily programs loaded with sports and entertainment that specifically cater to different age groups, including unique and ever-so-cool activities such as archery and water polo.

The tiniest of travellers will enjoy hanging out with familiar favourites, Raggs and Friends, as they join dance and singalong parties, character breakfasts and Broadway-inspired shows!

Enjoy the spectacular beachfront location and kid-friendly options of these stand-out resorts, located on the fine shores of Punta Cana, Riviera Nayarit, Riviera Maya and Montego Bay. With exchange privileges that allow families to ‘play’ at neighbouring Palladium properties, these resorts offer an array of facilities and activities to please everyone.

Food allergies are handled with utmost care All families are unique, and Palladium Hotels & Resorts has many menus that cater to every member. Collaborating with professional dietitians, the chefs at Palladium Hotels & Resorts have created allergy-compliant recipes so they can offer guests with various food allergies and sensitivities a wide array of carefully prepared gourmet options.

Don’t forget Mom and Dad A vacation at Palladium Hotels & Resorts also means that Mom and Dad can relax. Check out Zentropia

by Palladium Spa & Wellness center at select Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Riviera Maya, Riviera Nayarit, Montego Bay and Punta Cana, which

feature a selection of soothing and invigorating treatments to detox the mind, body and soul.

Treat weary muscles with a couples massage, and indulge in a moisturizing body wrap. Whatever treatment you decide to pamper yourself with, our highly-qualified staff will tend to your every whim.

With superb beachfront locations, indulgent wellness packages, and delectable culinary offerings, a rejuvenating and energizing holiday at Palladium Hotels & Resorts is just the ticket to return to the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation at one of these resorts.

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Family fun in the Bahamas The Bahamas is a perfect playground for kids of all ages. Throw on a saddle and trot up and down our pristine shores on horseback, or kick up some sand with a little beach volleyball. Go bowling at one of our many resorts, or simply build a sand castle on the beach. Kids can even attend Kids Camp, where they can explore a replica of a famous sunken Spanish galleon. Whatever captures their interest, know that you can find fun for the whole family in the Bahamas.

NASSAU & PARADISE ISLAND Nassau & Paradise Island offers endless entertainment for kids of all ages. There are beautiful beaches to explore, numerous underwater delights to discover while snorkelling, boating excursions to Blackbeard's Cay, catamaran cruises and glassbottom boat rides around the harbor, day sailing trips, and a powerboat adventure to the beautiful Exuma Cays, plus interactions with dolphins at Atlantis and Blue Lagoon Island.

GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND Nature-based activities, the wide-open spaces, a recreation centre and a kid-friendly marketplace make Grand Bahama Island an ideal family vacation spot. There are interesting kids’ programs available at Grand Lucayan Resort and Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach Resort (which also features a nightly show for kids). You may also wish to spend your family vacation exploring the fascinating marine life surrounding the island.

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VACATION EATS Top resort picks for

pic ky e ate rs By Irfan Rashid

Camilla Pucholt Photography

Most grown ups enjoy trying a new restaurant and experiencing new cuisines. For younger travellers, straying from tried and tested menu choices is often anything but exciting. Rather than anticipating trying out new and delicious dining options during their vacation, many parents may dread taking their picky eaters to sample new cuisines.

Don’t worry! Help is at hand; read on for our favourite tips, tricks, and resort recommendations so that everyone from mom and dad to the teens and the toddlers will enjoy their next dining adventure.

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Royalton Riviera Cancun

“...when it comes to picky eaters, having lots of variety tends to help. “

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Mixing things up Appetites come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to have diverse menu options that satisfy all tastes. One thing to consider when planning your trip is the selection of food choices and options available at the resort. When it comes to picky eaters, having lots of variety tends to help.

Royalton Riviera Cancun in Mexico has a variety of restaurants to please even the pickiest of tastes, ranging from an international buffet to casual classics at The Beach Club Grill and tasty Mexican dishes at Agave—there’s even a healthy kids menu!

Whether you’re in the mood to dress up and enjoy a culinary adventure or relax on the beach with comfort food, Royalton is where it’s at.

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Keeping it fun Even the pickiest eaters can’t help but smile and enjoy themselves when meal time comes. Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Punta Cana, is known for its wide range of culinary delights and options with its Gourmet Inclusive® experience, designed to please even the most discerning palates.

Join in the resort’s Pajama Jam and enjoy a snack in your jammies with your favourite Nickelodeon characters SpongeBob, Dora The Explorer and Boots. For a little more action, sit down with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles for a Turtle Power Breakfast or hit up Aqua Bite for healthy and refreshing snacks just steps from the pool. If mom and dad are looking for an evening to themselves, they can dine on Italian classics at Verdello, savour Far East fusion cuisine at Wok Wok, and more.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts

Sensatori Hotels & Resorts

Trying new things Usually kids shy away from different foods because they seem strange. Learning about new ingredients and how to prepare meals can help ease their discomfort, while being fun at the same time. At Sensatori Azul Beach Resort Mexico, parents and kids can participate in cooking classes, preparing classic dishes using produce from the on-site 100,000 square foot green house. The educational experience is a communal one where guests prepare different dishes and then enjoy each other’s culinary creations at the end of each class. The entire family will have a blast, leaving with full tummies and feeling proud at what they’ve accomplished.

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Craving comfort Sometimes it’s nice to take a break from all the excitement and have a night in to relax with convenient room service.

There’s no need to worry about hungry kids when a grilled cheese or hamburger and fries can be brought to your suite at any time. While the kids watch a movie and have an early dinner, parents can sit on the terrace or balcony, watching a beautiful sunset as they enjoy their own meal. If it’s breakfast in bed, an intimate family dinner or late night dessert, resort such as Royalton Negril Resort and Spa in Jamaica offer 24-hour room service serving up tasty comforts that make family meal time easy and enjoyable.

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Pleasing that sweet tooth Let’s face it, often a little bit of encouragement will goes a long way in getting your mini travellers to eat their greens, so you’ll want to know which resorts offer the best desserts too. Whether that’s classic ice cream sundaes, scrumptious cupcakes or decadent pastries, there are a number of resorts that go above and beyond in the dessert department.

The Ice Cream Parlour at Playa Cayo Santa Maria in Cuba is perfect for kids who want to cool off with a different ice cream flavour for every day of the week. Scoops Ice Cream Shop at Royalton Blue Waters in Jamaica also has lots to offer with fresh baked pastries, cakes, a wide selection of ice cream and famous Blue Mountain coffee for a jolt of caffeine. If you want sophistication in your dessert choices, Mexico’s Sandos Playacar Beach Resort features the Cupcake Café, where dessert is delivered as artistic creations in a scrumptuous setting.

When there’s something for everyone, it’s easy for families to make sure their vacations, and their stomachs, are happy and full.

Sandos Playacar Beach Resort & Spa

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Your dream family vacation awaits in

Saint Lucia Looking for a tropical destination that is family friendly? Look no further than Saint Lucia. Several hotels cater to the entire family offering kid’s clubs, kid menus, adjoining rooms and kid-focused activities. Babysitting services are available at some locations and the island thrives with adventures the whole family will enjoy.

Tour Saint Lucia by land or sea, enjoy water sports and seek out rare wildlife. Some hotels feature waterparks, beach volleyball, and multiple pools for everyone’s enjoyment. The concierge can even schedule excursions that will pick you up on site. Take the family to experience incredible waterfalls, rainforests and relaxing mineral baths. Don’t forget a stop at the world’s only drive-in volcano, located in Soufriere.

On-site restaurants provide abundant food options, even for those picky eaters.

Begin your mornings with a buffet breakfast that the whole family can enjoy, and then ask the locals for recommendations for lunch and dinner. They know the real deal and are happy to steer you in the right direction.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing, tropical getaway or a more adventurous, active vacation, Saint Lucia is the ideal place for a great family break.

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Family Club Pirate Café

Join

Kidc at io n Tes te rs

Fireese & Hartford

at the Family Club at Grand Riviera Princess All Suites & Spa Resort

By Abygayle Norris

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Last year’s winners Toronto siblings, Fireese and Hartford, won us over with their love of adventure and great sense of humour. Their ideal vacation includes lots of time playing in the pool, exploring the destination they’re visiting, and trying out new flavours and foods – these two have never met a buffet they didn’t like!The dynamic brother-and-sister duo travelled to Family Club at Grand Riviera Princess in the Riviera Maya.

Located right on the beach in Playa del Carmen, Family Club at Grand Riviera Princess boasts crystal-clear waters and smooth white sands perfect for building sandcastles. The family-friendly resort offers sprawling suites with deluxe amenities including bunk beds, Jacuzzis and swim-up room options.

The suites at the Family Club were the perfect size for this family of four. Their room had bunk beds (a big hit with Fireese and Hartford) and a Jacuzzi tub, and they could walk right into the pool from their back patio.

Avid swimmers will love the resort’s 12 pools, including the main kids’ pool with an exciting splash park that has waterslides and a play structure. When it’s time to grab a bite to eat there are a variety of dining options to choose from that will please even the pickiest of eaters: from Italian classics to authentic Mexican dishes.

Family Club at

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Both Fireese and Hartford loved the splash park at the main kid’s pool and spent hours playing in the water. Fireese loved the huge play structure and the splash bucket (you’ll get soaked with all the water it drops on you!), while Hartford enjoyed splashing around in the shallow areas dedicated for younger kids. Both had a blast at the kids club, which had sections for younger and older kids with various activities for all ages. A favourite among the whole family was getting relaxing foot baths at the on-site spa.

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It’s common for siblings to disagree, but one thing these two agreed on was their favourite restaurant at Family Club at Grand Riviera Princess All Suites & Spa Resort: the buffet.

Hartford loved how the pirate-themed buffet had counters that were the perfect height for kids and all the foods that he and his sister love. The 50s-style ice cream parlour was also a big hit and the duo loved being able to have ice cream every day – sorry mom and dad!

Overall the resort was a big hit with these adventurous Kidcations testers, and checked all the boxes for their perfect vacation.

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CANCUN

The vacation of a

Your family will never run out of things to do during a Cancun vacation! Here are some ideas that will help with planning your itinerary for a fun-filled family getaway. You can enjoy a wide range of watersports and adventures such as taking the family to one of our world-renowned Mayan sites.

MAYAN CULTURE Cancun’s Mayan Culture is its crowning glory. The aura of mystery and majesty still lingers around the Mayan archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Tulum and Coba to mention but a few. These are all within easy reach through the many tours available.

CANCUN WATERSPORTS Cancun watersports will delight even the most avid watersport enthusiasts. The bright blue waters also offer some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling.

SWIM WITH DOLPHINS An unforgettable experience for children, a dolphin swim is one of those experiences that kids and parents alike with never forget. These gentle creatures are as smart as they are curious and love to socialize in the warm waters with new friends. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these precious moments on film.

CANCUN ADVENTURE For the most exhilarating adventure tours for the whole family, you can enjoy some of the longest zip lines in Latin America, go mountain biking, drive through the jungle in open top jeeps and swim in cenotes. Cancun adventure tours can be tailor-made to be as adventerous as you choose.

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There are so many things to do in Cancun, that a vacation here truly offers something for everyone!

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Viva Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

live the vacation!

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If you’re planning a sunny vacation filled with relaxation and fun, Viva Wyndham Hotels and Resorts can provide the world-class accommodations and all inclusive amenities that your family deserves. With picturesque properties located throughout the Caribbean and Central America, Viva Wyndham has plenty of golden beaches and blue waters for you to spend your days lounging under the tropical sun.

Thoughtful and Attentive A family vacation is meant for quality time spent together, having exciting adventures and creating new memories. Viva Wyndham provides a beautiful setting and convenient amenities so you can enjoy the perfect family getaway.

Full of thoughtful little touches, when you stay at a Viva Wyndham resort, you can look forward to diverse and delicious dining options, rejuvenating spas and a world of entertainment.

For families who love activity Viva Wyndham Hotels and Resorts’ VivaFit program allows you to stay in shape while on vacation with numerous complimentary activities offered from beach volleyball, to sunrise yoga, to fun watersports like sailing and snorkelling, the list goes on.

Tropical Paradise There are opportunities for both rest and relaxation, and exciting adventure in paradise. Soak up the warm Caribbean sun with beachside service, sip on a refreshing drink by the pool or explore the deep blue with a snorkelling adventure.

Viva Wyndham Hotels and Resorts is here to help you and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Two’s company, but

five

is more fun!

By Connie Peters When you have more than just a few members in the family, travelling can sometimes seem challenging when it comes to coordinating rooms, who sleeps where, and what not.

So when you’re able to book a room that sleeps a family of five or more, that type of relief can make you feel like you’ve already started your vacation—especially when you know you’re able to easily keep an eye on your busy little ones!

To make things easier for larger families, Sunwing has done its homework and you’ll find a wide selection of hotels for families of five or more to choose from in their brochure or at Sunwing.ca. One of these is the all inclusive Be Live Collection Resort in Punta Cana. Set on white-sand beaches surrounded by lush palm trees and calm seas, this resort offers multiple room categories that can accommodate a family of five or more together with a wide range of amenities that make it ideal for families of any size.

Room to stretch out Choose between a Family Suite comprising of two bedrooms with bathrooms that overlook the beach, or a Family Home which sleeps up to nine people. These units have an apartment-style feel and offer three-bedrooms and bathrooms together with ample living space, including its own bar.

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Mother of three, Connie Peters, is the founder of modernmama.com, a goto parent resource that offers practical tips and information for moms on balancing motherhood and their career. When she is not discussing motherhood and entrepreneurship in the online community, she loves to share her latest travel adventures and aspirations.

kidcation

Fun for all ages Whether your kids are four or seventeen, there’s something for everyone at Be Live. Younger kids will love the numerous games and activities available at the supervised kids club.

My daughters loved the circus celebration that included entertaining characters, trapeze fun, and ice cream. Plus, it was so great to be able to drop them off and head to the beach solo for a little while. For the older kids, the teens club amenities includes a space for your teens to socialize, play ping pong, foosball and many of their favourite video games.

There was endless splash-worthy fun at this resort as activities by the pool were arranged daily and included everything from beach volleyball, to water aerobics, dance lessons, water polo, and regular foam parties! The fun even continues into the evening with regular performances at the outdoor theatre.

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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M ce ch

Inspiration for picky eaters Buffets are perfect for families because everyone can help themselves to their favourite picks. The main Aqua buffet at Be Live has a kids section in addition to all the main options like Italian food, more traditional ‘meat and potatoes’, fish, and pretty much anything your heart desires including a giant beautiful display of desserts.

We even got to enjoy all six à la carte restaurants: from allnight pizza and burgers, to the Lobster Shack, to Steakhouse, Brazilian, Mediterranean, and Asian dishes. We loved Mylos’ Italian appetizers and pasta especially. We were also really entertained by the live cooking show at the Teppanyaki restaurant, Akero. Dessert consisted of creamy vanilla-bean ice cream served with two tempura-fried Oreo cookies. It may sound wacky, but it was so delicious!

And of course, you have to try room service at least once.

After an exciting boat trip one afternoon, we really wanted to get some downtime in. So we ordered up some comfort food like fish and chips, clubhouse and cheese sandwiches and shared all of it around our cozy living room. It was the perfect end to an exciting sun-filled day.

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My daughters loved the celebration circus that inclu d ed entertain characters, ing trapeze fun , and ice cr eam.

VIP Perks If you want to feel extra pampered, I suggest upgrading to the VIP service to access cool features such as an exclusive pool, a Wi-Fi lounge, and several VIP-only bars; then there’s kid-friendly inclusions like the playground, large trampoline, and day beds with shade.

Also, few things compare to having VIP beach waiter service bringing you a Pina Colada right on the beach!

If you’re looking for a family resort with activities and amenities for a larger family or group, Be Live Collection Punta Cana could be just what you need.

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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Enriching

experiences in the

Pearl of the Pacific Mazatlan is a perennial favourite with North American sunbirds, snowbirds and their families.

Endowed with a shoreline dotted with beckoning islands, a lovely seaside promenade, kilometres of golden beaches and blue lagoons, this sunny destination really lives up to its moniker, “Pearl of the Pacific.”

Mazatlan has 20 kilometres of soft sands for entire families to enjoy, tall waves for surfing, the largest boardwalk in Latin America and delicious fresh seafood. This destination also has a picturesque downtown with museums, cafés and restaurants, and its port is one of the most important hubs in the Pacific Ocean. To get an authentic local experience in Mazatlan, during the month of February the city hosts its 100-year-old lively carnival takes place.

With over three decades of history, the Mazatlan Aquarium continues to be one of the most impressive of its kind in Latin America. Due to its remarkable facilities, it has become a must-see attraction, when families can spend an afternoon discovering the marine wonders living on its shores. Interact with hawksbill turtles, 50 different species of fish, including stingrays. You will meet Toby, a friendly sea lion, which is the park’s mascot and the star of the show!

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation.

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A vacation sure to please at

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa

By Assa Cisse

Assa Cisse of mycurvesandcurls.com is a content creator, self-confessed Pinterest addict, and mother of two very active little boys. During her many travels, she has discovered that one of the best ways to learn is through discovering new cultures—a lifestyle now adopted by her young family.

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kidcation

One morning sitting on a bench under the covered walkways of Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa, a tune was born. It starts with “Jamaaaaaica…….’s the best”. When our younger one started singing it, it was the moment when the resort came together for us and was sealed as a cherished memory for our family.

But I’m getting ahead of myself, and you’re probably wondering what could possibly make our six-year old break into song.

Could it be the kids club? Or is it the wide variety of restaurants? How about the water park? Or maybe, it was simply that this Kidcation was everything we hoped for and then some? Let’s find out!

Why Jamaica?

We firmly believe that travel should be an important part of our kids’ education as in our youth; my husband and I have enjoyed learning other cultures through direct exposure.

Jamaica is the home of reggae, music, some of the best track and field runners in the Olympics, the origin of 10 James Bond novels, Jerk Chicken, I could go on! Throw in Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa, and my friends, you have a vacation sure to please both parents and the kids!

At 40 minutes away from Montego Bay airport, the extensive resort complex beckons your senses with close to 400 junior suites, over 70 suites and almost 50 villas with ocean view. With a full mini-bar refilled daily, a Jacuzzi, and healthy snack service in the afternoon, our junior suite was the perfect size for our family of four.

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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What to do The resort had numerous water options including the largest pool in Jamaica, and let’s just say it took a while to convince the kids to take a break from the waterpark. The beach was great, offering a range of free watersports such as paddle boating, kayaking, catamaran rides, and more.

Right across from the watersports area we found some tasty eats; the Blue Lagoon restaurant and what I believe to be the best dining option at the resort: the Jerk Hut! Oh boy – real honest to goodness Jamaican jerk chicken.

If they weren’t at the waterpark, the kids club kept our boys busy as it’s open from 9am-11pm. They loved the breakfast and night shows with the characters from the show Raggs.

As if that wasn’t enough, we also enjoyed challenging each other to a game of mini-golf and showing off our aim (or lack thereof!) during a game of archery at the sport centre.

What’s a vacation without a little relaxation at the spa?

With the kids club open all day, parents can easily indulge in some time for themselves. The facilities include a steam sauna, hot and cold pools, stone water walkways to relax your feet, a giant pool to lazily float around in, and a dry sauna to round out a relaxing afternoon.

But the fun didn’t stop there! Every night as we wrapped up dinner, we were always excited about the upcoming night shows at the theatre. They’re original, fun, and the artists provided amazing energy and entertainment.

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The food While I still can’t stop thinking about that jerk chicken I tried, I will say there were lots of other delicious restaurants available. The buffets offer numerous specialty dishes. Next, you will want to try the à la carte options: we loved the view over the infinity pool at the El Agave Mexican restaurant, or the open setup of Poseidon, the Mediterranean eatery. While these are all great options, we unanimously picked Bubba’s steakhouse as our top choice. The salad bar was great, the entrées were downright succulent, and the setting offered open area tables as well as cozy private areas for romantic dining.

Needless to say, this family will be going back to the Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa. We went in with high expectations and came away with family memories that will last a lifetime.

Read more on the blog at sunwing.ca/kidcation

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m u i r a u q a The

of the world

Unspoiled beaches, luxury resorts, world-renowned golf courses and sport fishing. Just when you think Los Cabos has it all, you discover Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park in the East Cape. Its shallow bay cradles three beautiful reefs, including the only hard coral reef in North America. A myriad of vibrant tropical fish and turquoise blue waters await your exploration at Cabo Pulmo, a family-oriented and eco-friendly park.

Jacques Cousteau once called the Sea of Cortez ‘The Aquarium of the World’. The sea contains 39 per cent of the world’s total number of species of marine mammals, and is recognized by UNESCO for its extraordinary importance. Over the past ten years, Cabo Pulmo has taken great initiatives to ensure the preservation of the reef and these efforts have earned Cabo Pulmo the distinction of being an official Mexican marine park.

Snorkellers and divers of all levels can enjoy this fantastic underwater world teeming with morays, turtles, puffers, angelfish and more. Mermaids Beach, a small protected bay, is ideal for beginners. At Frailes Rock Sea Lion Colony, you can meet friendly sea lions.

Other snorkelling sites, such as Jureles and Las Navajas never cease to amaze with incredible marine life and fascinating shipwrecks.

Experience this underwater sanctuary and interact with a rainbow of aquatic creatures on your next vacation in Los Cabos.

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to start planning your family vacation in this destination.

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t h g i all r

The kids are

in Jamaica

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When it comes to family vacations, Jamaica

relax can sip on their favourite tropical drink at

enjoy hiking through tropical forests, stroll

is the perfect playground! Known as the ‘land

one of the many fabulous all inclusive resorts.

through botanical gardens, tee off at a number

of all right’, it’s rich with beautiful landscapes,

Little ones can discover exciting wildlife in Ocho

of Championship golf courses or discover one

stunning beaches and famed for its colourful

Rios, home to the famous Dunn’s River Falls,

of the many historic and cultural landmarks for

and vibrant culture, inimitable island cuisine and

while those looking to do as the locals do can

a ‘live’ history lesson.

world-renowned music scene. Its reggae beats

visit the ‘Friendly City’ of Montego Bay.

From and lazy days by the lagoon and barbecue

Jamaica is also an adventurer’s paradise. On

nights

top of being able to climb the Falls, families

line adventures, Jamaica has something for

Beachgoers of all ages will find plenty of

can bond over numerous activities such as

everyone in the family to enjoy.

beautiful spots to soak up some sun or build

snorkelling, diving, sport fishing, or simply

Contact your travel agent or visit sunwing.ca to

creative sandcastles, while parents looking to

splash around in the warm waters. On land,

start planning your family vacation in Jamaica.

will get you grooving, while its mouthwatering jerk chicken will get that tummy rumbling.

to

river rafting excursions and zip

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