Family Travel

Kids Fly Free on Air Tahiti

November 6th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

tahiti-holidayTahiti and Bora Bora are not the first places that parents think of when they are trying to choose a location for their next kid-friendly adventure. French Polynesia is known as a romantic destination with French-influenced cuisine and secluded tropical resorts.

True, Tahiti and Bora Bora are the honeymoon capitols of the South Pacific. But the beaches, natural surroundings and surprisingly kid-friendly culture make these islands a better family destination than people might imagine.

Air Tahiti Nui has a promotion that proves this fact. Their kids-fly-free offer is one of the best deals currently available to flying families. Prices from LAX to Tahiti are as low as $369 one-way. A package with two round trip adult tickets starts at $1432(from LAX). Two children can fly for free as part of this package. Tickets must be issued on or before December 31st.

Parents might also be surprised to know that some of the finest hotels on Tahiti and Bora Bora offer extensive kids programs. One example of this is the Saint Regis Bora Bora Resort. Despite having all the ingredients of a romantic resort: a full-service spa, state-of-the-art exercise and sporting facilities, and a full array of honeymoon suites, the resort has an extensive menu of children’s programs for kids ages 5-12. Features include a section of beach especially set off for children, while activities include classes in Polynesian craft-making. The Saint Regis also has babysitting services and children are made welcome at any of the in-house restaurants.

The Four Seasons Tahiti, which is known for its over-the-water bungalows with traditional Tahitian thatched roofs, welcomes families with kids activities including diving and classes in traditional Tahitian art and dance. This particular resort also has a teen beach area. An in-house marine biologist is available to teach youngsters about the organisms that inhabit the water under the bungalows.

Tahiti and Bora Bora are expensive destinations, but the family-friendly culture is evident, even at the finest resorts.

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Planning Your Trip to the BCS Championship in Pasadena

November 5th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

rose-bowl-bcs-championshipsThe great American past-time that is College Football is gearing up for its 2009-2010 Bowl Schedule. There are in fact, 34 games in the current Bowl Schedule, but only a handful truly bring the crowds, blood, sweat and tears. The main event, the BCS Championship Game will be played in Pasadena’s Rose Bowl on January 7th, 2010.

Tickets from the northeast to sunny so-cal will run just under $300. Mid to south west Rose Bowl seekers will find tickets at $300 and tickets from the southeast around $350. Online ticket vendors like StubHub are offering BCS Championship tickets starting at a whopping $596.

Lucky for you the Rose Bowl is quite a beauty and set in a charming city with a small-town atmosphere. Pasadena, best known as the “City of Roses” has several local attractions and sights to keep you busy and entertained. There are also number of decently priced, quality hotels within a 2 mile radius. The Courtyard by Marriot Pasadena is, by far the closest and will run you around $309 a night (a definite increase in price here because of the championship game). A great alternative would be to stay in the neighboring Glendale area or downtown Los Angeles.

Must see attractions:
The Huntington Library, 4 miles from the Rose Bowl, is a 207 acre gem. 120 acres are landscaped and include a botanical garden containing more than 14,000 different species of plants, a Japanese Zen garden and a spectacular “Jungle.”

Old Town Pasadena will take care of your shopping, dining and nightlife fix. Big brand stores like Urban Outfitters and Tiffany’s sit adjacent to a fun dive bar (Barney’s Beanery) and a favorite fondue restaurant (The Melting Pot).

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Cruise Critics Unveil World’s Best Cruise Lines for 2009

November 1st, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

cruiseThe editors of Cruise Critics, a popular independent cruise reviews and news site, has revealed its Best Cruise Lines list for 2009. The awards honor the world’s top cruise lines based on 33 different categories including “Best for Romance”, “Best Family Cruise Line”, “Best for Healthy Dining” and “Best Spa” amongst others.

Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor in chief of Cruise Critic, says that “There’s no ‘one-size fits all’ in cruising, but, rather, a whole host of options for every type of cruiser…Our 2009 picks represent not only the best cruise lines, but also some of the best travel companies in the world.”

Royal Caribbean won the award for “Best Family Cruise Line” with its wealth of options and on-board activities designed specifically for families. Carnival cruise line won the award for “Best for First Timers” with its creative itineraries and customizable packages for first-time cruisers, singles and travel groups. Crystal cruise lines scooped up the “Best Luxury Cruise Line” award, while Princess Cruises won the “Best for Romance” award. The Royal Caribbean Freedom Class ships were named the cruise ships that are “Best for Kids” and “Best for Teens”. Royal Caribbean was also named the best cruise liner for fitness enthusiasts.

The “Best Spa” award went to Costa’s Samsara Spa, while the “Best for Weddings at Sea” went to Princess Cruises.

Cruise lines that won awards in the food and dining category include Carnival, Oceania, Celebrity and Seaborn. These cruise liners are famous for their all-you-can-eat buffet stations, high quality restaurant selections, luxury dining options and healthy dining fare available for all guests.

NCL’s Courtyard Villas won the award for “Best for Big-Ship Suites”, while the Regent Seven Seas won the award for “Best Luxury Staterooms”. Cruise ships that won awards in the ‘Activities’ category included Carnival cruise lines (“Best for Nightlife”), Disney’s Castaway Cay (“Best Cruise Line Private Island”) and Holland America (“Best for Activities”).

CDC Releases Winter & Holiday Travel Tips Regarding H1N1 Virus

October 28th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | 1 Comment »

With the 2009 H1N1 pandemic underway, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have made a formal announcement on recommendations for travelers this winter and holiday season. The CDC is encouraging people who are at risk with the flu, or those that have recently developed flu-like symptoms, to get appropriate medical care and even delay their travel plans if needed.

People who are most at risk for contracting the H1N1 Virus are:

  • Children younger than five years, adults who are 65 years or older, pregnant women, and very young children under the age of 2
  • Those who have a history of health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, neurological or kidney disorders, a weakened immune system, chronic lung disease or cancer
  • The CDC recommends that these people exercise caution when traveling and to be conscientious about whether they start to experience flu-like symptoms

Recommendations from the CDC:

  • Do some research about your destination to make sure you’re not putting yourself at risk for swine flu
  • Check with your health insurance providers to make sure you have access to health care and medical coverage for any emergency situations while traveling
  • Pack your own medical kits so you have access to hand sanitizers, antiseptic and other basic first aid supplies
  • Anyone who experiences flu-like symptoms or develops the flu while traveling should avoid continuing on their travel route for at least 24 hours until the symptoms subside, and avoid all contact with other people. Most cases recover and get well at home. The H1N1 vaccine is the best way to reduce your chances of infection.
  • Travelers planning to visit a foreign country this season are encouraged to contact the embassy or consulate to learn about any health recommendations, travel restrictions and screening process that may be in place for overseas travelers

The CDC also maintains a health website with updates about the latest health information for over 200 international destinations, vaccination information and tips for safe and healthy travel.

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Royal Caribbean Teams up with Make-A-Wish Foundation, Unveiling World’s Largest Ship

October 27th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

Royal Caribbean will be unveiling the world’s largest ship the Oasis of the Seas on November 30, 2009 at the Port Everglades Cruise Terminal in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. What’s more, the cruise liner plans to host a celebration fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Royal Caribbean plans to donate 100 percent of the sales from 1,000 of its staterooms to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, an organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Those that book one of the staterooms will have the opportunity to secure an exclusive discounted price on four-night cruise packages departing on December 1, the night after the event.

Children and their families who are part of the Make-A-Wish Foundation will be able to participate in the festivities on November 30, and enjoy the special inaugural event that includes live music, entertainment and access to signature amenities on board including the Vitality Spa and Fitness Center, the Pool and Sports Zone, and two Flow Rider surf simulators. All guests attending the celebration will also have the chance to enjoy a special dinner in the Opus Dining Room, and participate in gaming activities in the Casino Royale.

Royal Caribbean has hosted more than 1,300 children who have wished to go on a cruise destination since 2000, and this event will be one of the biggest celebrations to date. The cruise line has raised more than $480,000 to make the wishes of children come true this year.

The Oasis of the Seas cruise ship will be the most revolutionary cruise ship in the world, according to a recent press release from Royal Caribbean, spanning 16 decks and accommodating for 5,400 guests at double occupancy. The ship has been built with 2,700 staterooms and features a neighborhood concept design with several themed areas including the Royal Promenade, Central Park, the Boardwalk, and the Entertainment Place among others. More information about the event can be found here.

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Enticing Travel Deals to Europe’s Top Destinations

October 25th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

paris-franceDestinations in Europe have not fared as poorly as some places in the US during the tourism industry’s two-year doldrums. Tourists have continued to visit popular continental cities like Paris and Rome. However, other European cities have fared much worse, forcing hotels to lower their prices. The summer high season, when most tourists travel to Europe from North America, is now past. Prices for hotels, airfare, and packages are down more than usual this fall: as much as 30%. In addition, the US Dollar is currently worth more – compared to the Euro and British Pound – than it has been in several years. This means that Americans can finally take advantage of a favorable rate of exchange.

Hotels in Amsterdam and London are, according to the New York Times, struggling to fill rooms and trying to undercut the competitions’ prices. As a result, deals like Concorde Hotels and Resorts $120 per night offer, are easy to come by. (Concorde runs more than 20 upscale hotels across Europe).

Just how low have prices gotten? When compared to last fall, this season’s hotel and airfare packages are more than 30% cheaper in Amsterdam. Even Rome, which has fared better than most European cities during the past two years of tourism industry woes, has seen a 17% drop in package prices compared to October 2008.

American Express, in conjunction with dozens of upscale boutique hotels in Europe, is offering free nights for its cardholders. Their promotion, featuring the boutique luxury hotels of the world, offers travelers who pay with their Amex a free night when they book at least two nights at qualifying hotels. More info here.

Some of the finest hotels in Paris are trying to woo tourists with similar incentives. The Waldorf Arc de Triomphe is offering a fourth night free for visitors who book during the low season.

Would-be Europe visitors can compare the package deals on sites like Orbitz and Travelocity using the comparison tools at LowFares.com.

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How to Get the Cheapest Hotel Rate Anywhere

October 24th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

Hotels are often the most expensive aspect of a family vacation. Unless you plan to pitch a tent or impose on relatives or friends, the cost of a room (or two) is a necessity. Luckily, there are strategies that can help frugal families find the best deals.

1. Booking sites do not necessarily offer the lowest prices. Though it is handy to log on and compare rates, many hotels have special promotions that are not always listed on these sites. In addition, if a hotel is listed as not having any rooms on a booking site, there may still be rooms available for those who call the hotel directly. It sounds old fashion, but working the phones is still a good way to find good deals.

2. Don’t always travel on the weekend. Weekend hotel rates can be twice as much as weekday rates. If a family can work a vacation around the weekend, they can take advantage of Sunday night and Monday night rates, which can be much lower than Friday and Saturday prices.

LowFaresTip3. The opposite strategy can work for hotels that cater to businesspeople. If you don’t mind staying near a business park or in the downtown of a major city, the rates at a business-oriented hotel are much cheaper on the weekends than during the week.

4. It’s worth checking into package deals. Flying families can sometimes find good prices on airfare-and-hotel packages. This is especially true if they are planning to visit a major tourist destination. Though the airline tickets might be near full price, the hotel part of the package can be discounted more than 50%. Of course, this is only a good idea for those families that are already planning to fly.

5. If you do use booking sites, it is best to compare prices to make sure that you are getting the best deal. Check sites like www.lowfares.com to see prices from Orbitz, Travelocity, and other sites side-by-side.

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Ghostly Good Times at America’s Theme Parks

October 21st, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

halloweenHalloween has become one of the year’s biggest holidays. Theme parks are seeking to draw new customers by putting their own special mark on the spooky proceedings leading up to October 31st. Families won’t even need to journey to Florida or California on the actual day of Halloween in order to take advantage of the special events. In fact, many of these celebrations began in early September and will continue after the trick-or-treat candy has been handed out.

Disney World in Orlando will feature Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party until November 1st. Children can trick-or-treat with Disney’s legion of mascots and then enjoy a nightly Halloween parade and Halloween fireworks shows. Event is held from 7pm-12am on the following dates

* September 4, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29
* October 1, 2, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
* November 1

Find ticket prices here

Anaheim’s Disneyland also has a trick-or-treat event on select nights in October. In addition to Disney characters handing out candy, there are Halloween craft stations, live shows, prizes and other interactive events. Event dates available: October 21, 28, 29, 30. Take advantage of advanced ticket prices for $32. Day of event price is $39 with October 30th priced at $42. Buy your tickets online and print them at the convenience of your own home here.

Legoland in Carlsbad, California is getting into the trick-or-treat spirit with the Brick-or-Treat Party Night and Brick-or-Treat Trail. Children are allowed to collect candy while walking along the life-sized Lego path. The event, which runs for the entire month of October, includes awards for the most creative costumes. Tickets start at $25!

Six Flags theme parks across the nation are offering Halloween experiences for older visitors each Weekend in October. There are actors in scary costumes and specially decorated rides. Because some of the haunted-house-type special effects are quite realistic, these events are best for older children. Tickets are $54.99

Universal Orlando and the original Universal Studios in California are both offering Halloween Horror Nights that are perhaps even more frightening than the Six Flags celebrations. Both theme parks will have multiple haunted houses and haunted trails with special effects worthy of the latest horror movies. Tickets are $56. Some dates may already be sold out so get your tickets fast!

MSNBC recently ran a story about the top Halloween celebrations at America’s theme parks. The list can be found on the news organization’s website.

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Kid Friendly Attractions in Big City Hong Kong

October 12th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

Hong Kong is not usually considered a family travel destination. It is known for its urban features and cosmopolitan atmosphere. However, there are plenty of family friendly attractions in the former British colony. Sure, Honk Kong’s Disneyland is an obvious children’s destination, but this vibrant Asian metropolis has other youth-centered options as well. It is a great place to introduce children to Asian culture. That culture includes a special place for children, making family travelers feel welcome in more places than they might expect.

Eating is often a family affair in Hong Kong. Dim sum restaurants in Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island might seem chaotic, but they offer children a chance to choose from hundreds of different appetizer-style dishes. The choices, atmosphere, and prevalence of families make this an almost sure bet for a memorable meal.

Ocean Park, on Hong Kong Island, is a large aquarium with a theme-park atmosphere. It is fun and reasonably priced at about $27 for adults and $13 for children. The park features rides and boat cruises through various marine habitats. The admission price includes access to a life-sized re-creation of an ancient Chinese town.

victoria-peak-travel-hong-kongAlso on Hong Kong Island is the Victoria Peak Tram. Younger travelers might like the tram itself because it travels up an impossibly steep hill. The views at the top are spectacular. Even antsy, young travelers will pause for a few minutes to take advantage of the chance to actually look down at the city’s skyscrapers.

Kowloon has fewer family attractions. However its bird and fish markets are fun places to window shop. There are literally hundreds of thousands of birds of different species in cages hanging from the walls and eaves of the crowded market stalls and shops.

Kowloon is also home to many small Buddhist temples. Older children might enjoy visiting these as they offer insight into Hong Kong’s culture and also have an attractive ambiance.

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Cream of the Crop Colorado Ski Deals for the Family

October 9th, 2009 | By LowFares | Posted in Family Travel | No Comments »

monarch-mountain-coloradoSki season is fast approaching. In an effort to attract new customers, some resorts in Colorado are offering unbeatable promotional prices. Families who take advantage of these pre-season deals may be able to stay and ski in the Rocky Mountain State at significantly reduced prices. And, for die-hard skiers who want to hit the slopes more than once during the coming months, season passes for the ’09-’10 season are also being sold at a discount.

Steamboat Ski Resort has a special season pass deal for families. Skiers who purchase a season pass will receive a free season pass for a child (12 and under). To qualify, the adult must be the child’s parent or legal guardian.

Colorado’s Loveland Resort also has it’s share of family-centered deals. The resort’s 4-pack provides four lift tickets for any day of the ’09-’10 season for only $109. This price means significant savings for slope-happy families. In addition, season-long passes for children ages 6-14 are only $149.

Winter Park Resort is offering reduced rates on accommodations. Prices for the remainder of 2009 are as low as $45 per person. Another promo is especially useful for weekend warriors: book a room for two nights and get the third night free.

Colorado’s Monarch Mountain has one of this season’s best deals. Season passes purchased before November 7th are $319 for adults, $189 for teens, and $99 for the twelve-and-under set. Those prices are pretty standard, but Monarch offers extra incentives for skiers. Season pass holders will not be confined to the resort’s slopes. They receive three free days of skiing at each of a number of area resorts, including Loveland Ski Area, Powderhorn Resort, and Sunlight Mountain Resort. It doesn’t get any better than that for avid skiers who feel that their options are limited when they purchase a season pass to a single resort.

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