If your family has a case of the winter blues, take a vacation to sunny San Juan, Puerto Rico. Though this tropical island is just 35 miles wide and 100 feet long, the capital city contains more than enough attractions to keep the whole family busy. Learn about the island’s rich history – from the native Taino to the Spanish colonials to modern day — or experience colorful Puerto Rican culture at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico. This national museum holds more than 1,100 paintings, sculptures and works of art dating from the 1600s to today. And, of course, don’t forget those sunny, sandy Puerto Rican beaches. Several resorts offer family-friendly, inclusive packages.
For a touch of the high life, stay at the Ritz Carlton San Juan. Swanky amenities for the grown-ups include a casino, full-service spa, yoga lessons and rum tastings, while the kids can have fun at the Ritz Kids program. This day care offers activities and childcare for kids aged five through 12, seven days a week. The resort also has five restaurants and rooms with wireless Internet, mini-bars and ocean views.
The InterContinental San Juan Resort and Casino also offers inclusive packages. Choose from family-friendly perks such as in-rooms movies complete with pizza and sod, and babysitting services. Drop the kids off at the Planet Trekkers Kids Club, open to children ages four to 12, and head for the resort’s casino and spa. The resort also has four restaurants, two lounges and an outdoor pool.
The San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino caters to travelers with kids, as well. This resort’s family packages include in-room movies served with milk and cookies and discounted tours of the El Yunque Rainforest and Bio Bay for the whole family. Nested on Condado Beach, the resort also has a day spa, casino, four restaurants and an oceanfront swimming pool.
Other family-friendly resorts include the Caribe Hilton San Juan. Not only do kids under age 18 stay for free, children under age five ear for free while kids ages six to 12 eat for 50 percent off. The Caribe Hilton offers day care through its Kids Paradise Club. Adults can enjoy the day spa, casino, tennis courts and swimming pool. Other amenities include five restaurants, a coffee shop and a lounge.
The Isla Verde Beach Resort also welcomes families with children. Rooms feature private balconies, mini-refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Kid-friendly amentieis include the Banana Ice Cream Parlor, packed with sweet treats for the little ones, a swimming pool just for kids, babysitting services and a game room. Adults will enjoy the swim-up pool bar, nearby golf course and five restaurants. This beachfront resort also offers a range of water sports, beach volleyball and biking and jogging trails.
The Ritz Carlton San Juan
InterContinental San Juan Resort and Casino
San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino
Caribe Hilton San Juan
Isla Verde Beach Resort