Orbitz Blog

Articles for March, 2009

Go green: eco-friendly Mexico vacations

Tuesday, March 31st, 2009

Mexico vacation By Lena Katz

Whether you’re heading straight to Cancun or taking a jeep to an undeveloped beach village, Mexico vacations have endless eco-travel adventures that will amaze and engage. And since you can’t see everything — in one trip or a thousand — here are some I think are the best, just to inspire you in time for Earth Day.

The Riviera Maya is best known for Cancun, but moments away from that highrise heaven, some of Mexico’s biggest and best “green” attractions await. Taking the spotlight this year is Tres Rios, the ecological preserve eight miles outside Playa del Carmen. Though Tres Rios has existed for 8 years, it’s garnering worldwide attention right now because of the opening of Hacienda Tres Rios, a beautiful and tranquil eco-hotel located right on the beach, at the convergence of three rivers and the Pacific Ocean.

Hacienda Tres Rios sets a new standard for “green” luxury: no longer defined by furnished “tent-alows” or boutique spa retreats, this category now encompasses large properties with gourmet restaurants, shops and wonderfully comfortable guest rooms featuring mini-bars and balcony hot tubs. The property was designed and constructed from the ground up to conform to rigorous sustainable tourism standards; the developers conducted studies and observation for four years before breaking ground. Now nearing completion, the 326-acre Tres Rios property includes 150 acres of nature preserve, much of which is open to visitors. Features include ten cenotes (natural spring pools fed by underground rivers), a kayak-able river, interpretive nature walks and an offshore reef.

Long before developers considered “greening” Playa del Carmen, the tiny island of Isla Mujeres (Isle of Women), just a stone’s throw off the eastern coast of the Riviera Maya, was destined for sustainable tourism. This idyllic little island was sacred to pre-Columbian Mayans for centuries…and after Europeans discovered it, it was used primarily as a pirate getaway and a fishing village. These days, it’s a very popular daytrip destination, with the main activities being snorkeling, beach volleyball, exploring on foot or by golf cart (there are no cars), and swimming with whale sharks. Popular visitor attractions are El Garrafon Marine Park, the sea turtle farm on Sac Bajo, and  the ruins of an ancient Mayan temple to the moon goddess, Ixchel.

Mexico vacation Though most people only think of Cozumel as a cruise ship stop, this island is actually a renowned diving destination that’s determined to keep its on- and off-shore landscapes pristine — and also to protect its rare flora and fauna. Dedicated conservation programs within the island’s parks and preserves protect the marine turtles, crocodiles, nesting birds and mammals. Chankanaab is the largest park on Cozumel. Faro Celarain is an eco-reserve known for its sea turtle sanctuary. San Gervasio is the site of Mayan ruins — like Isla Mujeres, sacred to the moon goddess Ixchel.

Though among the most crowded of the Riviera Maya’s attractions, the ruins of Chichen Itza outside Tulum are absolutely amazing and belong at the top of every Mexico vacation “must-see” list. Ditto for the Gran Cenote that’s next-door-neighbors with Tulum. Annoyingly, motorized transportation is the only logical way to reach the ruins or the cenote — and tour buses seem to be most people’s favored vehicle. Have patience, head a little further south, and you’ll reach 1.3 million acre Sian Ka’An Biosphere Reserve, the largest reserve on Mexico’s eastern coast. Massive Sian Ka’an has five public entrance points, 23 archaeological sites, and is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’re fully surrounded by the jungle, the sea and the legacy the Mayans left behind.

Xel-Ha and Xcaret are two aquatic theme parks that are family-friendly in the extreme, ecologically and culturally conscious, and easy to spend a day in apiece. The multi-faceted natural glory of the Riviera Maya is neatly collected and presented for guests of Xel-Ha. Enjoy the River Float, the Turtle Camp, the Grotto El Dorado, the Mayan Cave… At Xcaret, a Mayan village has been re-created at the water’s edge. By day, guests swim in the natural lagoon, play with dolphins, and float down underground rivers. At night, they witness a one-of-a-kind stage spectacular performed by a cast of hundreds.

Related Orbitz resources:

Lena Katz lives on the Left Coast and writes about tropical islands, beach clubs and food, but her heart belongs to NYC.

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Volunteer family vacation proves meaningful, memorable

Monday, March 30th, 2009

By Jennifer Michaels

Many parents are finding that volunteer tourism, or “volun-tourism” is a way for regular moms and dads to take the whole clan on a meaningful family vacation that would make Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie proud.

My husband and I decided to join the growing trend of do-gooder tourists. Our decision to do so was based on our realization that our children may not have appreciated everything about our globe-trotting family vacations. Every time we’d hear whining or fighting in the backseat, we’d look at each other, roll our eyes and get even more motivated to find ways to make it “count." After plenty of “Go Fish!” games by many pools, we figured we should educate them about something much more meaningful. After all, isn’t it our responsibility as parents to teach our kids that vacations have more to them than 600-thread-count sheets (those, of course, are pretty nice too!)?

Though traditional voluntourism began in the 1960s, it has picked up speed. A recent survey suggests that millions of Americans have done some form of long-distance volunteering in the past decade. Instead of traveling across the ocean, altruistic travelers are sticking closer to home these days to help neighbors in need.

Family vacation For our family vacation, we chose to hop in our car and drive south from Tampa to Naples, Florida, to participate in a program called “Give Back Getaways” from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel company. We cleaned up the Naples beach with our two sons and a naturalist from the hotel’s Nature’s Wonders program, explaining to them how the natural surroundings of our Florida beaches can get destroyed by litter and trash.

Teaching our kids about the ecology of a place is just as important to us as trying to bribe them into tasting the local flavors. Surprisingly, my children took the clean-up task seriously. They turned the trash-hunt into a beach treasure-hunt of sorts, competing to see who could fill up his bag the quickest. After we collected trash, along with some beach specimens, we headed back to Nature’s Wonders to check out our finds under a microscope.

We then took hotel transportation to the nearby Conservancy of Southwest Florida, where exhibits give a more in-depth look at how discarded items stay on the bottom of the ocean floor. With visual displays that read, “Here Today. Here Tomorrow” the kids could see how the non-decomposing trash just sits on the ocean floor. We also had another lesson from a naturalist as we took a boat ride through the canals.

There are many other ways to have a hands-on volunteer family vacation in Naples. Animal-lovers can choose from a range of activities, including helping Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge protect the habitat by clearing trails of non-native and invasive plants. Or, the property’s Golf Resort invites guests to accompany hotel staff in an assembly line as they package meals to be distributed locally in Collier County and Southwest Florida. Programs throughout the year at the resort also include making cancer awareness bracelets for Cancer Alliance of Naples (CAN) and building homes with Habitat for Humanity.

Family vacation If you are looking for another good family vacation destination, check out Amelia Island. Amelia Island is one of our favorite Florida destinations for old-time charm. The barrier islands off the coast of northeastern Florida are the perfect place for quiet contemplation. Our children learned how to kayak in tandem with us, teaching them that teamwork is the only way to get ahead in the waters — great for family bonding. There are many opportunities to give back to the local landscape there as well.

If you choose to head south instead, two South Florida resorts have partnered with several non-profit and charity organizations to meet the needs of volunteering vacationers as well:

Marco Island Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa: “Volun-tours” can lend a hand at the local YMCA of Marco Island with landscaping or beautification efforts. Charitable vacationers will receive a 15% discount at the spa to soothe sore muscles.

Doral Golf Resort & Spa: Guests can take part in a morning beach clean-up at the Biscayne Nature Center or sign up for mural painting with Hands on Miami. Guests are “thanked” with a complimentary breakfast to refuel.

There are so many opportunities to help communities during your family vacation. All you have to do is ask. Usually, a concierge or hotel manager can help you find reputable local causes that won’t turn away an offer to help. In the process your kids will learn that it is better to give than to receive. And, maybe the “souvenir” will be the wonderful feelings that you have knowing that you helped along your journey.

Related Orbitz resources:

Jennifer Michaels is the National Family Travel Examiner for Examiner.com. In addition to her freelance work for Orbitz.com and Away.com, she currently runs her own Web site, FamilyTravelPlanet.com, where she aims to take the hassles out of travel with kids.

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Renovations add luxury rooms, lazy river to Orlando hotels

Friday, March 27th, 2009

Orlando-hotels By Pamela Mareghni

Whenever I’ve planned a Florida vacation, the Walt Disney World®Resort is usually the first place that comes to mind. And a Disney vacation really does have it all — with over 20 theme resort hotels, four theme parks, two water parks and two nighttime entertainment districts. Now it has even more to offer with the newly renovated Regal Sun Resort. I can’t wait to see all their updates on my next Florida vacation. Beyond the Walt Disney World®Resort, there are many Orlando hotels to choose from, including the new Hilton Orlando and currently-under-renovation Peabody Orlando.

Newly-Renovated Hotel in the Walt Disney World Resort: Regal Sun Resort

The Regal Sun Resort’s $25 million renovation was just completed in fall 2008. Just a few of the highlights include all-new rooms, a new large hot tub overlooking Lake Buena Vista, a pool area twice as big as before with a gradual “beach entry” and a kids’ interactive water playground. There is also a 24-hour café in the lobby and two new lounges, one with a view of the lake.

New Orlando Hotel: Hilton Orlando

The Hilton Orlando is slated to open in September 2009. While you have many Orlando hotels to choose from, this one really stands out. It is both a business traveler’s dream — being connected to the North/South building of the Orange County Convention Center via a covered walkway — and a pleasure traveler’s escape — having two resort pools and a lazy river. It also has a full-service spa, a 9-hole putting golf course, restaurants and a 24-hour marketplace. I could see myself drifting in the lazy river or putting around and never even making it over to Disney World!

Orlando Hotel Expansion Project: The Peabody Orlando

The Peabody Orlando is undergoing a $420 million expansion project with an expected opening of Fall 2010. Some of the highlights of the renovation include over 1,600 luxury rooms, a unique grotto pool with a pool bar, poolside cabanas with high-speed Internet access and a Napa Valley wine-themed restaurant. I think having a meal at this restaurant overlooking the grotto pool would be an absolutely enchanting dining experience.

With all these great new additions to the Orlando hotel scene, I know I will have a lot of choices to ponder before booking my next Florida vacation. Basically, whether you want to explore Walt Disney World®Resort or the greater Orlando area, there are many great new and updated Orlando hotels to choose from, both inside Walt Disney World®Resort and just outside it.

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Pamela Mareghni loves exploring cultures and languages through her voyages, which range from Fargo to France. Next to traveling, her second favorite thing to do is write about traveling.

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AirTran adds flights to Denver, Midwest cities

Thursday, March 26th, 2009

Flights
By Joe Brancatelli

AIRLINE WARS

AirTran Airways Challenges Midwest and Northwest at Milwaukee: AirTran Airways never got over its unsuccessful attempt to buy and merge with Milwaukee-based Midwest Airlines. After its 2006 bid drove Midwest into the arms of Northwest Airlines and an investment group, AirTran began bulking up its flight schedule at Milwaukee. Now AirTran has announced another 40 percent increase in flying in Milwaukee in direct competition with Midwest, which has been slashing its own schedule in recent months. In May, AirTran will launch new service to Branson, Missouri; St. Louis; Minneapolis/St. Paul, which is a Northwest Airlines hub; and seasonal flights to Denver.

THE SLUMP UP FRONT

The Premium-Class Plummet Reaches the Pacific: Premium-class traffic has been collapsing since last August and December, the latest month for which figures are available, was no different. According to IATA, the global airline trade association, premium-class traffic in December fell 13.3 percent following an 11.5 percent decline in November. The weakness had been predominantly across the Atlantic in recent months, but now the slump has reached the Pacific market, too. Transpacific premium traffic fell 19.7 percent in December and 17.3 percent on routes between Europe and the Far East. Intra-Asia premium traffic fell even faster, dropping 25 percent in December. These numbers haven't gone unnoticed by the region's major airlines, either. Singapore Airlines will reduce capacity by 11 percent in the coming months. Included in the cuts: the end of Vancouver-Seoul-Singapore flights in April. And it's logical to assume that Singapore Air won't be resuming daily service on its ultra-long-haul nonstops to Singapore from Newark and Los Angeles. (The frequency was reduced to five times weekly earlier this year.) Qantas and Virgin Blue, the two major Australian carriers, are also scaling back in the region, although Qantas is not cutting flights to the United States, and Virgin Blue's V Australia subsidiary has launched its much-anticipated Sydney-Los Angeles service.

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Joe Brancatelli is editor and publisher of JoeSentMe.com, a non-commercial Web site for business travelers. Copyright 2009 by Joe Brancatelli. Licensed by contract for Orbitz use.

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Family vacations: 5 steps to make flying with an infant easy

Wednesday, March 25th, 2009

Family-vacation
By Benjamin Berman

Since my daughter was born 15 months ago, she has been on 18 flights, including family vacations from our home in Chicago to both coasts. Needless to say, my wife and I have learned quite a bit about how to travel with an infant. Hopefully, the lessons we learned from both our mistakes and successes will help make your travels with your bundle of joy a little easier.

Okay, so I broke it down in to 5 steps, taking you from booking your flight all the way through traveling. Let us begin…

Step 1. Booking a flight.

If you can, pick light travel days to start and end your family vacation! (See Jim Cohn’s blog on Flying with kids during the busy holiday season). And, most important, travel during your baby’s nap time. It doesn’t matter if it is a short flight or a long flight. If you have a child under one, travel during nap time. Do I need to say it again? The longer your baby is asleep in the air, the easier your flight experience will be. Think about the times your baby takes a nap before you purchase airline tickets. Of course we all look at the prices first, but my wife and I do our best to pick flights between 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m., as my daughter naps during these blocks of time.

If you don’t follow this one, and you choose to take the first flight out in the morning after your baby wakes up, or the little tike sleeps on the way to the airport, you’re making life much more difficult on the plane for yourself, your baby and your fellow passengers. Wouldn’t you rather be able to read a book, listen to music, and relax on the plane rather than dealing with a fussy baby? By the way, notice I said nap time, not bedtime. Those late-night flights may be cheaper, but spend a couple extra bucks and avoid the headache of waking a sleeping baby at 11 p.m. in an airport and having to deal with all that comes with waking a sleeping baby.

Step 2.  Time to Pack.

Ok, we all are packing light these days to try and avoid the extra costs of checking luggage. I get it, but, don’t pack too light with those carry-ons. Bring a blanket or two, some favorite toys, books, and plenty of milk and/or juice. In fact, my daughter really likes her adorable “puppy pillow” for travel, which comes in handy throughout our trips when she wants to put her head down on the plane or in the hotel. If your baby is old enough to eat “real” food, bring plenty of snacks too. My wife and I use blankets not only to keep our baby warm and comfortable during the flight, but also as a makeshift play area. We usually bring a second blanket (germs everywhere in airport!) to lay on the ground at the gate with some toys and let our daughter have a little play time. She plays, and we relax or do last-minute prepping for the family vacation. This is also a nice little helper to tire her out so she’s ready to nap after we board.

Step 3. Traveling through the airport.

Don’t be fooled into leaving the stroller at home or checking it with your luggage. Use it in the airport. Even if you have an infant car seat adapter (see Step 4), don’t worry about getting these beastly strollers through security — they fit. We have a big stroller and have no issue when we fold it up and send it through the TSA machines.

Ah, think you have a stroller and you’re set? Not so, bring the baby bjorn too. We put our baby bjorn in a compartment under the stroller, and when we get to security, one of us takes my daughter in the bjorn, while the other handles the bags. The bjorn is also very helpful if traveling alone with your baby, as it gives you two free hands to maneuver bags.

Step 4. The infant car seat.

Remember, we’re only talking about infant car seats. The rules change with bigger car seats. That said, we  don’t check the infant car seat with our luggage either. Yes, even if you have the baby bjorn. Your infant car seat has an adapter to fit in the stroller, right? So leave it (and your baby) in there until you get to security. Also, when you get to the gate, ask if the plane is full, and if not, ask to be next to an empty seat. Most airlines will allow you to bring your child on the plane in the infant car seat if you have an empty seat next to you. This will make the flight so much easier as you can let your baby eat, play and sleep in the infant car seat (and not on you). Oh, and if the plane is full, you can gate check the car seat just like a stroller and it’ll be waiting in the hanger when you get off the flight. For those who don’t heed my advice and check the car seat upon check-in, still remember to ask about the middle seat, as it can make a great little bed for a baby to nap on if you don’t want to hold your baby for the entire flight.

Step 5. Awake time on the flight.

Scared about the awake time on the flight? Baby will fuss and cause a ruckus? Fear not, you brought lots of food and toys. First, don’t be afraid to jump off your meal plans and feed the baby (we’ve been known to alter snack times on flights), or use some of those toys and books you brought to entertain him/her. And, finally, if that seat belt light is off, don’t be bashful, get up and walk the aisle or stand in the back of the plane and rock, sing and sway. Whatever it takes. Heck, flight attendants might know a new lullaby.

Now, don’t forget to sit back, relax and enjoy your flight — and your family vacation.

Related Orbitz resources:

Benjamin Berman, an attorney at Orbitz, is the ridiculously proud and
pathetically obsessed father of his beautiful baby-girl Sydney, who he
and his fantastic wife, Julie, take to and from Boston (in-laws!) and
other U.S. cities 6-8 times a year.

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French Canada is a fun, easy international family vacation

Tuesday, March 24th, 2009

By Donna Mulligan

Family-vacation-1 After a spring break vacation of roller coasters and amusement park rides in Virginia, I planned a summer family vacation with our kids to Canada. My boys wanted to know what kind of roller coasters they had in Canada. I tried to paint them a picture of the great outdoor playground we would experience in French Canada. They were skeptical.

Quebec is the French-speaking province in Canada, steeped in history, rich in culture and an excellent choice for a family vacation. We flew into Montreal and headed north to the Laurentian Mountains. In the winter, this is a skier’s paradise, but the summer brings opportunities for fishing, biking, hiking, gondola rides, picnics and more.

We rented bikes (equipped with the piggy back for my 4 year old), and the boys found an amazing spot on the river with hundreds of tadpoles. They were disappointed they could NOT bring them home, but were quickly distracted because the sky was bluer then ever and the trees were definitely greener …Maybe we just found the time to notice the sky and the trees.  And it was amazing the amount of stars that filled the night sky in Canada. Away from all the city lights below, I swear we saw at least 10 shooting stars! The kids were thrilled.

From the Laurentians, we headed east to Quebec City and Charlevoix. In Charlevoix, we stayed at the most spectacular Fairmont Le Manoir Richeleau, which sits on a bluff overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Here the river is so enormous it is like looking out to the ocean.

Charlevoix is a haven for artists, poets and writers. Galleries, displaying magnificent local paintings, dot the countryside and invite visitors with their quaint, genuine charm. Every home is meticulously maintained with fresh bright paint and flower boxes galore — a true expression of the proud “Quebecois” who live here.

Family-vacation-2 Our French skills were minimal, and communicating in the local restaurants and markets in the Charlevoix countryside was interesting. The “French Toast” we ordered in “English” didn’t translate well — so we settled on 5 plates of plain ol’ toast and jelly for breakfast. It wasn’t a disappointment to us though. It was a fun experience and the kids liked paying the bill with the new “colored” currency.

In Charlevoix, we also went whale watching on the St. Lawrence River. I bought disposable cameras for each of the boys (ages 4, 7, 9) and they went crazy taking pictures of all the whales we saw. Even though the guide was French speaking, the boys quickly learned what the “nord” side of the boat meant.

We  took a ferry (with our car) to Isle-aux-Coudres. We rented tandem bikes and rode around the island exploring windmills and treasure hunting on the beaches.

We spent the last night of our vacation in Quebec City, the only walled city in North America. The kids enjoyed shopping and buying hockey souvenirs from Canada.

This was our first international family vacation and a very impressionable one for our boys. Without the jet lag of European travel we all experienced the friendliness and charm of French culture, closer to home.

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Donna Mulligan is a full-time working mom to 3 hockey players. Her family's favorite travel destinations include Killington, Vermont, the Adirondacks, Florida's Gulf coast, and Quebec City.

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A little effort makes family vacation fun and educational

Tuesday, March 24th, 2009

Family vacation London 1 By John George

Last summer, my wife and son took a family vacation to London. The trip was a 10th anniversary celebration for Jenny and me, and it mirrored our honeymoon.  Back in the '90s, we took a cruise to Britain aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2. What a super trip as newlyweds!

This time, we reversed the trip by booking flights to London, and sailing home on the Cunard’s new Queen Mary 2.  And of course, the bigger difference was that we brought our 9-year old son along!  As the old saying goes, “…and baby makes three.”

The trip was a significant undertaking for us, both in terms of time and funds. We wanted to do something to help our son to appreciate the trip and, we hoped, to gain a better understanding of the place, people and culture of Britain.

We considered enrolling him in a summer school class on some aspect of British history, or even looking for a teacher or tutor to give him some lessons. These ideas didn’t pan out for us. One of Zeke’s aunts had the idea of a research paper, and that’s what we settled on. His challenge was to choose an aspect of British history or culture, read up on it, and compose a short essay.

Family vacation London He took to the challenge well, and immediately decided he wanted to write about Churchill and the Battle of Britain. Interestingly, if he were doing the assignment now, I’m sure he would select something to do with pop music. So do the interests of pre-teens shift with time….

He checked out a number of books, videos and Web sites, and composed a two-page paper on the valiant efforts of the RAF in repelling the German air raids in 1940.  Surprisingly for us, there was little grumbling about this “school-like” assignment. Of course, the payoff was a really cool family vacation!

The payoff for Mom and Dad came on our second day in London, when we happened by the monument to the RAF along the Thames, near Westminister Bridge. Zeke immediately recognized it and pointed out to us with pride the famous quote from Winston Churchill:  “Never in the field of human conflict…” Later, when we visited the Imperial War Museum, the depictions of the air war in Europe were all the more interesting for him as well.

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John George is a full-time working dad to his 11-year-old son. After visiting every continent, save Antarctica, he was domesticated by his wife Jenny. Their family enjoys cruising, beach vacations and getaways to the Big Apple.

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Baseball fans score with a ‘spring training’ Florida vacation

Monday, March 23rd, 2009

Florida-vacation1 By Jennifer Michaels

My son’s first word was “ball.” At that moment, I knew I better gear up for a life of sports. That was 1998. Since then, my family has taken plenty of Florida vacations to witness spring training.

Of course, my family is not alone in its passion for baseball. This spring, nearly 2 million fans will attend close to 300 spring training games in 15 cities. Florida is clearly no rookie when it comes to spring training. With winter winding down and basketball season heading to a close, we changed the clocks and bought our new cleats. The incessant pleas to “Take me out to the ballgame” have begun. And in our house, that means a Florida vacation, where baseball fans and major leaguers gather to warm up — both figuratively and literally.

Our family has spent many springs watching Florida’s Grapefruit League play in Tampa. It’s a great family vacation – especially with multiple generations. My father, my husband and my two sons hate to miss a game. With 16 out of 30 Major League teams making Florida home for their training programs, the deep-rooted tradition continues this year. Some hotels have jumped into the game, offering attractive packages and souvenirs. For instance, the Intercontinental Tampa is within walking distance to several popular shopping and dining destinations, and convenient to George Steinbrenner (Legends) Field. Visitors can take home a “Fan Tool Kit,” complete with a team-specific chocolate amenity, baseball for signing, Cracker Jacks, peanuts, popcorn, Bazooka gum, soda, and famous song lyrics.

Cheap tickets, easy autographs

Tampa has the home-field advantage, being conveniently located to all the fan-favorite teams. Guests can catch the Astros, Braves, Cardinals, Dodgers, Marlins, Mets, Nationals, Phillies, Pirates, Reds, Blue Jays, Tampa Bay Rays, Indians, Orioles, Red Sox, Tigers, Twins and Yankees, who play just a few miles from the hotel on Legends Field. The Tampa Bay Rays train just a few hours south in Port Charlotte at Charlotte Sports Park, which was recently renovated to host the team this year. It's possible to plan a family vacation that combines Orlando’s theme parks with ball park stops along the West Coast to make everyone happy. (I imagine if I had some “Cinderellas” at home that we’d be visiting the Magic Castle along with Walt Disney World’s Wide World of Sports Complex to catch an Atlanta Braves game at Cracker Jack, now Champion® Stadium.)

In addition to the weather, there are other reasons for a Florida vacation during training season. Not only are the spring training ticket prices often cheaper (many general attendance or lawn seats are $10 or less), but players are more accessible to sign autographs and say “Cheese!” for the cameras. If an autograph is your goal, take the kids to Orlando area’s Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee, where the team set up fan heaven, known as “Autograph Alley.” The spring home of the Houston Astros, this is the smallest ballpark in the Grapefruit League, making it really kid-friendly. It even features a playground for the youngest spectators when they don't feel like sitting still anymore.

You don’t have to look far for more action. Stops throughout the state include historic ballparks such as Holman Field at Dodgertown in Vero Beach, where the Los Angeles Dodgers train, to Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, where the St. Louis Cardinals and Florida Marlins play. The Detroit Tigers train in Lakeland, located one hour southwest of Orlando. With 72 years of training history now under its belt, “Tiger Town,” will receive the honor this year of having the longest-standing relationship between a Major League team and its training city. Bright House Field in Clearwater is the place to be to watch a Phillies game or head over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge to Sarasota and watch the Cincinnati Reds play at Ed Smith Stadium.

Joe DiMaggio once said of Opening Day, "You look forward to it like a birthday party when you're a kid. You think something wonderful is going to happen." And maybe, if you are lucky enough this April 6, it will.

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Jennifer Michaels is the National Family Travel Examiner for Examiner.com. In addition to her freelance work for Orbitz.com and Away.com, she currently runs her own Web site, FamilyTravelPlanet.com, where she aims to take the hassles out of travel with kids.

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Las Vegas hotels: Top 10 off-Strip superstars

Thursday, March 19th, 2009

Las-Vegas hotels By E.C. Gladstone

New visitors to Las Vegas generally assume all the action is happening on the Strip (a.k.a. Las Vegas Blvd South). And there’s no denying it’s the center of town — if not the universe ;-) … But as locals know, many noteworthy Las Vegas hotels have sprung up all over our valley in recent years, fiercely competitive for your attention and frequently offering amazing values!

Just to be clear, I’m not talking about downtown, or Strip-adjacent properties like the Las Vegas Hilton, Palms, Hard Rock Hotel, Rio, Platinum Hotel and Spa, Palace Station, Gold Coast and Orleans, but farther-flung Las Vegas hotels which may not get the attention they deserve. Here are ten destinations, each with particular strengths:

M Resort Spa Casino

Just opened at the Southernmost edge of the Las Vegas Valley (closer to Henderson than the Strip), M is an elegant, modern casino-resort with several dining and drinking destinations — including the expansive Studio B buffet, 32 degrees beer bar (96 on tap!), and Hostile Grape wine cellar (120 by-the-glass!). The 390 standard rooms (and 5 two-level loft suites) are just below 5-star level, with addictively soft beds, iPod-friendly Bose stereos, 42” flatscreen TVs, turndown service, atmospheric lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows with motorized shades, and marble floored bathrooms featuring in-mirror TV, make-up vanity, rainfall showerheads, and soaking tubs with a view! There are outdoor patios everywhere overlooking the huge pool deck (with voyeuristic daybed quays), a nicely appointed mid-size spa, and even the casino center bar is an above-average meeting place.

Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa

One of the most elegantly designed casino resorts anywhere, suburban Summerlin’s Red Rock dazzles from top to bottom, yet remains approachable and fits in its setting adjacent to the Red Rock Canyon nature preserve. Built around a dramatic circular pool deck, Red Rock features a destination-worthy spa, nice sportsbook, 16-screen cinemaplex, 72-lane luxury bowling center (the largest in Vegas), Kids Quest play area, Rande Gerber’s funky Cherry nightclub and several strong dining options, including T Bones steakhouse (on par with the Strip’s best), Hachi sushi and casual Salt Lick Texas barbecue. The spacious four-star level rooms have a masculine-mod feel and ergonomic excellence at all turns, from the pinspot nightlights and Bose stereo by the plush bed, to the good desk area (with included Wi-Fi service) to the massage showerhead, thick towels and angle-adjusting TV over the deep soaking tub in the functionally roomy baths. Also, this Las Vegas hotel has some truly stunning specialty suites.

Eastside Cannery

Boulder Highway is usually dismissed as a locals trap and tacky holdover of a past era. But the new Eastside Cannery looms over this mini-Strip like a Jetsons-era monolith. Inside, the fun cartoon style atmosphere continues, from the theme-killing can-shaped door handles to the PinUps center bar and on. But the rooms themselves sport functionally tasteful modern design in a generous, high ceiling format, with top quality beds, 37” flatscreens, and floor-to-ceiling windows with 180 degree views. Deluxe accommodations add a sexy four-star level bathroom! The One Six skylounge is a cool destination. And right next door is Sam’s Town, which has a lot of other things to recommend.

Las Vegas hotels Green Valley Ranch

Entering this suburban Henderson resort (adjacent to the District shopping mall) can be a challenge, but once inside, the Italianate property doesn’t disappoint. Family-friendly offerings like Fatburger, a 10-screen cinema and big video arcade blend with the hip/romantic Hank’s steakhouse, Drop bar and Terra Verde Italian. The pool deck is one of the most gorgeous at any Las Vegas hotel. And recently redecorated rooms mixing mid-century and classical influences include big Panasonic flatscreens, Bose stereos, gooseneck bed lamps, opening windows (!), coffeemakers, spa-quality robes and four-star level bathrooms. Wi-Fi, fitness and spa facilities are included in the resort fee.

Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort

Though a Lake Las Vegas hotel is a ways out of town (between Henderson and Boulder), once at Loews, both the lake setting and golf offerings make it a worthy destination. With a Moroccan theme, the terraced property is sublimely designed for quick navigation, featuring two pools (one with a slide!), a white sand beach on the lake, private casbahs, and a Japanese restaurant, Marssa, helmed by Master Sushi chef Osamu Fujita. The pet-friendly rooms have a distinctive moorish influence in the art, tapestries and lamps with a large LG flatscreen, instant Keurig coffeemaker (with Emeril’s coffee capsules), and big bath sheets in the marble-lined bathroom. Wi-Fi included. Both Loews and the adjacent Ritz-Carlton (below) have very strong kids’ programs and water activities, making this a great family getaway.

Ritz-Carlton Lake Las Vegas

Anyone familiar with the 5-star level Ritz-Carlton chain knows what to expect from this Las Vegas hotel: classical elegance and excessively thoughtful service at every turn. In its mere 320 standard rooms and 64 suites (some of which are truly palatial), virtually every amenity has been thought of, including flatscreen TVs (some with DVD), full coffee service, excellent shower and tub, Bulgari products, bedding you’ll cry to depart, and romantic balconies. The large and well-serviced concierge club here offers virtual full-meal gourmet “snacks”  throughout the day. The destination spa, pretty gardens, private mini-beach and adjacent village (with an intimate casino) complete the package.

Las Vegas hotels JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa

One of the few truly destination-style properties here, Summerlin’s JW Marriott offers the classic American resort experience, including a well-regarded spa, three major golf courses within a mile, an expansive tropical pool area and gardens…and of course an attached casino. Chef Gustav Mahler’s Spiedini, the cozy Carmel Room, and J.C. Wolloughan’s (a traditional pub custom built in Ireland for the property) are among the dining and drinking options. Standard guest rooms feature rainfall showerheads, jacuzzi tubs and optional balconies; Wi-Fi, Strip shuttles and spa passes included in resort fees.

Silverton Lodge

Themed like a Colorado fishing lodge, with the 4000-fish Azure reef tank — a free attraction that kids love (especially the mermaids!) — the recently expanded south-of-the-Strip Silverton is a manageable-sized casino hotel that is clean, friendly and easygoing. Rooms are spacious and well maintained with Bath & Body Works amenities. For dining and drinking, steakhouse Twin Creeks has a great variety of atmospheric seating options for groups and couples and features a huge selection of “boutique bourbons,” crafted cocktails and great meat. Mi Casa Mexican cantina, the Seasons buffet, Johnny Rockets burgers, the Shady Grove (with ten-pin bowling inside an Airstream trailer!) and jellyfish-accented Mermaid Lounge are all worthy too. An unmarked area by the poker room test-markets new slots and gaming machines. A small fitness room is free for guests. Oh, and for a unique retail experience, stroll through the attached Bass Pro Shop.

South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa

Size matters at the South Point, on the far south end of LV Blvd, where standard rooms are nearly junior suites with iPod-friendly stereos, flatscreens, coffeemakers, etc. The casino itself is XXL too, and the property includes a 16-screen cinemaplex, 64-lane bowling center, huge sportsbook and bingo room, even one of the country’s finest Equestrian centers. The Big Sur oyster bar and Michael’s Gourmet Room are well-regarded eateries here. They are one of the few properties with complimentary airport shuttle service.

Las Vegas hotels Aliante Station

Though the farthest afield from the Strip (in Northwest Vegas, adjacent to Aliante Golf Club), this newest entry in the Station Casino family is a cute little sister to Red Rock, mod and classy while approachable and easy to get around. The rooms are one of the best parts — virtually four-star quality with comforting earthtones and woodgrains, geometric built-in furniture, and an oversized smart-waterfall shower. Soft towels, premium bedding, Tarocco bath products, turndown service and great floor-to-ceiling window views finish off a job well done. This Las Vegas hotel features include a well-equipped 24-hour exercise room overlooking a moderate sized but cabana-heavy pool deck, and the fantastic Pips Cucina and Mrkt restaurants.

Also notable: Sunset Station, Santa Fe Station, Suncoast

Insider Tip: Off-Strip casinos often offer better slots payouts and other gaming advantages and promotions to keep locals as regular customers. Join the players clubs, and ask!

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E. C. Gladstone is a contributing editor at VEGAS Magazine,  and interviews top Strip entertainers, restauranteurs, moguls and behind-the-scenes players for other local and national publications and websites. Like many Las Vegans, he sleeps only when absolutely necessary.

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Business travel: New hotels open in Seattle, Tempe

Tuesday, March 17th, 2009

Business travel
By Joe Brancatelli

HOTEL HOT SHEET

Do We Need All These Properties? Almost half of the nation's hotel rooms are now empty, yet new properties continue to open because the big chains can't plug the development pipeline. Hilton, for example, has opened a 210-room Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Minneapolis. Meanwhile, Hyatt has opened the 346-room Grand Hyatt Seattle and a 567-room hotel in Sha Tin, in the New Territories area of Hong Kong. Also in China, Renaissance has opened a 684-room hotel in a 60-story high rise in the Cloud Nine commercial complex. The lobby is on the 25th floor. And there are two more hotels in overbuilt Arizona, too. Starwood has opened an Aloft hotel in Tempe and Radisson has opened a 154-room property in Yuma. … Meanwhile, the Don Shula Golf Club in Miami Lakes, Florida, has been reflagged as a Hotel Indigo. And Florida's Naples Grande Beach Resort (formerly the Registry Resort) has become part of Hilton's Waldorf Astoria Collection.

NEED TO KNOW

On-the-Road Intelligence to Help You Travel Smarter: Several struggling casinos in Atlantic City have teamed up with Amtrak and New Jersey Transit to launch a rail connection from New York and Newark. The ACES Train will operate on Friday, Saturday and Sunday between Penn Station in Manhattan, Penn Station in Newark and the Atlantic City train station. Fares currently start at $50 one-way. … Caribbean travelers take note: KLM drops its flights between Amsterdam and the Dutch territory of Aruba at the end of March. … A new version American Express card tied to the Hilton HHonors program is loaded with perks. The Surpass card offers complimentary HHonors Gold status if you spend $20,000 a year and top-level Diamond status if you charge $40,000 a year. It also awards nine HHonors points for each dollar spent at Hilton properties, six points per dollar spent on some categories of purchases and three points per dollar for all other spending.

TRAVEL TECH TALK

Better Travel Through Technology: A group of mobile-phone makers says it will standardize handsets so that they can use common AC chargers. The group includes Nokia, Motorola and Samsung and two wireless carriers, AT&T and T-Mobile. The consortium promises to introduce the standardized chargers by 2012. … A year behind its announced schedule, Southwest Airlines has launched a test of in-flight Internet service. The test will be expanded to a total of four aircraft next month.

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Joe Brancatelli is editor and publisher of JoeSentMe.com, a non-commercial Web site for business travelers. Copyright 2008 by Joe Brancatelli. Licensed by contract for Orbitz use.

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