Today, there are endless possibilities for family vacations — exploring kid-friendly destinations, starting new traditions or returning to old favorites. Family vacations are on the rise in 2023, as 47% of travelers report their travel was motivated by time with loved ones.
Anyone in charge of family reunions can attest that planning means figuring out logistics, wrangling schedules and researching things to do for the whole party. However, the effort is always worth the time spent together.
Blair O’Neal — a television personality, model and former professional golfer — knows a thing or two about the importance of family vacations. “My husband and I are both extremely dedicated to our careers and our children. And that doesn’t leave a lot of time for much else,” she said. “Vacations force us to decompress, reconnect and re-center our attention as a family.”
“Let’s face it, we’re all very busy. But we need those times to build lifelong memories outside of our daily grind,” Blair added.
What are Blair’s tips for successful family vacations? It starts with planning. “Set your intentions as a group or family before arriving. Is your goal to rest and relax? Minimize the schedule and try to make what you have for dinner the hardest decision of your day.“
“Is your hope to sightsee and be active? Plan your itinerary in advance, but leave room for flexibility,” she said. “Try not to be so rigid with your schedules on vacation, or you’ll risk falling into the same stresses when you’re away.”
“Lastly, pick your travel companions wisely — they can make or break a trip,” Blair advised.
After you establish expectations with your travel party, it’s time to choose a destination. “Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, has always been our favorite getaway. We live in Phoenix, so it’s a short flight,” Blair explained. “We haven’t been to Cabo since before the pandemic, so just being back will provide much-needed R & R.”
Next, select your lodgings. For Blair’s family, Cabo Azul, a Hilton Vacation Club has what they need. “Cabo Azul has everything we’re looking for. We have two young boys, so quite frankly I’m not sure we would attempt to stay anywhere without spacious Suites,” she said.
“People don’t talk enough about how challenging it is to travel with kids, particularly babies and toddlers — cribs, monitors, sound machines, blackout curtains, meal prep, parent privacy.”
It’s not just the Suites with plenty of room. The kid-friendly resort amenities are also a plus. “Letting our boys play in the pool, listen to the ocean and build sandcastles on the beach is what vacations are all about,” said Blair. “These are experiences we’ll never forget.”
Read “4 Ways To Vacation Like A Local In Luxurious Los Cabos.”