(Family Features) If your family suffers from the winter doldrums, a dose of sunshine may be just what they need. Give everyone something special to look forward to this year by planning a vacation that appeals to kids, parents and grandparents alike.

Leaving the country for breathtaking views and relaxation at the world’s beautiful beaches may provide the boost of vitamin D you need, but it also requires a little extra preparation compared to the average road trip. Ensure your memory-making excursion goes off without a hitch by doing the legwork in advance to avoid unnecessary stress.

Plan your winter getaway with these tips for an elevated experience.

Strategize for Stress-Free Travel
As you prepare for your next adventure, planning ahead is essential to ensure a seamless experience, especially when traveling internationally and for long-haul trips. Whether you’re seeking a dreamy beachfront destination or a European vacation, collaborating with a travel advisor as your first step in the planning process can significantly enhance your trip since they provide expert help and ideas tailored to your preferences. One of the key advantages is that their services typically come at no cost to you, allowing you to relax while the experts handle everything from finding the best deals to managing essential travel requirements, such as country entry guidelines and passport regulations.

Discuss Resort Options
Once you’ve settled on a location, it’s time to go over the lodging options with your travel advisor. Whether you’re looking forward to digging your toes into the sand or craving a little adventure, it’s always best to identify what matters most for your trip. Researching resorts that offer a true “all-inclusive experience” can help ease stress and keep the focus on family fun. Consider stays at Sunscape Resorts & Spas offer features like a kid’s check-in experience, welcome treats, connecting rooms and more, all designed to “Press Play” on Unlimited-Fun. This way, your family’s needs and wants are covered – with best-in-class service, all access restaurants, unlimited drinks and a supervised Explorer’s Club for Kids while teens have their own space at the Core Zone Teens Club.

One way to maximize your resort stay is to sign up for hotel loyalty programs, like World of Hyatt’s loyalty program, to earn rewards and benefits that can go toward free nights, exclusive member rates, upgrades and more. Plus, travel advisors who book directly can input your loyalty information to help ensure you get the most out of your getaway.

Ask Your Advisor for Insights
Travel advisors commonly visit locations and resorts, so they know the destinations inside and out. Ask your advisor if he or she has traveled to your desired vacation spot and consider the expert advice offered, from must-have meals to recommended attractions and excursions.

Consider Travel Packages
One way to make memories that last a lifetime is to explore any special family packages that are available at the time of booking. For example, Sunscape Resorts & Spas is offering exhilarating getaways perfect for the kid in everyone with the Press Play on Fun package available through Dec. 20 for travel through Aug. 16, 2025.

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It includes a delightful welcome amenity and exclusive gift, breakfast in bed, a reserved spot by the pool or beach and a family photo on the beach to capture all those smiles. The resorts take family fun to the next level in vibrant, colorful beachfront locations in Mexico, Curaçao and the Dominican Republic.  

Make a Beach Trip Checklist
If you’ve ever traveled so much as an hour or two away from home, you know how important a checklist is to avoid leaving behind any must-haves. A trip to the beach calls for an entirely new set of essentials.

If you plan to spend time at the beach (or pool, for that matter), consider adding these items to your suitcase:

• Swimsuits
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Hat and sunglasses
• Beach- or pool-friendly shoes
• Goggles
• Books or magazines
• Beach bag
• Reusable water bottle or tumbler
• Waterproof phone case
• Cash for tips

To start your winter vacation planning, visit hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/sunscape.

SOURCE:
Hyatt Corporation

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

(Family Features) If you’re looking to get away, fall is a perfect time to plan an escape. With smaller crowds at many popular destinations and more comfortable weather, scenic autumn landscapes and cozy hideaways await.

Planning Your Fall Vacation

To get your planning started, consider these tips to enjoy a spectacular fall vacation without breaking the bank.

Choose a Destination with Beautiful Scenery
When planning a fall vacation, research the cost of living for potential destinations. Some places may have lower costs for accommodations, dining and attractions, allowing you to stretch your budget further. Considering destinations known for their stunning fall foliage, such as New England, can allow you to take advantage of budget-friendly activities, like nature walks or sightseeing, that capitalize on the beauty and charm of the season.

Time Your Trip to Take Advantage of Deals
Timing is key when it comes to finding the best deals. Consider traveling during the shoulder season, which is the period just before or after peak tourist seasons. During this time, prices for accommodations and attractions are often lower and there are fewer crowds. If you have the freedom to choose when to go on vacation, look for off-peak days or midweek travel. Prices tend to be lower during these times compared to weekends or popular travel holidays.

Pack Essentials to Save on Unnecessary Purchases
Packing strategically can help you save money and avoid unnecessary purchases. Consider packing these essentials:

• Layered clothing: Instead of bulky sweaters or coats, opt for lightweight layers that can be easily combined to keep you warm.
• Reusable water bottles: Bringing a reusable water bottle helps you avoid buying bottled water and reduces waste.
• Snacks: Packing snacks like granola bars or dried fruit can help you reduce food costs while you’re out and about.
• Travel-size toiletries: Transfer your favorite products into smaller containers or purchase travel-size bottles instead of buying pre-packaged versions.

Pick Budget-Friendly Activities and Attractions
Popular destinations often offer a wide range of budget-friendly activities and attractions. Consider these ideas that won’t break the bank:

• Hiking and nature walks: Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage by exploring hiking trails and nature reserves. Many of these outdoor activities are free or have minimal entrance fees.
• Local festivals and events: Research local festivals and events happening during your trip to immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the area.
• Local markets: Explore farmers markets or craft markets to discover unique products and support local businesses. Often free to enter, these markets offer opportunities to sample local food and purchase souvenirs.
• Museums and galleries: Look for museums and galleries that offer free or discounted admission during certain days or times to explore local art and history without spending a fortune.

Save on Accommodations
Finding affordable accommodations during the peak of fall can be challenging, but with these tips, you can save money while still enjoying a comfortable stay:

• Book in advance: Plan your vacation early and take advantage of early bird discounts or promotional offers.
• Consider alternative accommodations: Instead of traditional hotels, explore options like vacation rentals, hostels or bed and breakfasts, which can be more budget-friendly and provide a unique and personalized experience.
• Stay outside the city center: Accommodations located outside main tourist areas are generally more affordable. Consider staying in nearby suburbs or towns and utilize public transportation to explore the city.
• Use price comparison tools: Take advantage of price comparison websites to compare rates across different accommodations to find the best deals and save money on your stay.

Find more tips and tricks to save on fall travel at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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FISH CAMP, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — Tenaya at Yosemite is pleased to announce the completion of a 244-room remodel in its main Lodge, along with the addition of new amenities to enhance each guest’s experience.

Tenaya at Yosemite

Inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, Tenaya at Yosemite reimagined the era’s timeless charm with a modern touch. The rooms are designed with a focus on warm wood tones and a palette of soothing, earthy colors to create a tranquil haven promising a peaceful interlude from the exhilaration of Yosemite’s great outdoors. Elegant furnishings and soft textures echo the natural beauty of the Sierras, while handcrafted details and understated patterns lend a distinguished nod to the movement’s exquisite design philosophy.

Each lodge room’s headboards, nightstands, desks, luggage bench, and acoustical TV wall panels have received custom upgrades designed by Allen & Philip Partners and built by Samuel Lawrence Hospitality. These new case good furnishings are complimented by Kellex Seating desk chairs, ottomans and sleeper sofas, as well as new lounge chairs by Kovet Hospitality and dining chairs by Sandler Seating.

Tenaya at Yosemite’s lobby and concierge area has also been fully remodeled to seamlessly bridge the guestroom’s new design elements throughout the property.

In addition to the hotel’s redesign, Tenaya at Yosemite has also unveiled new amenities – including a new pickleball court played with grass rules, a new bocce ball court at the Explorer Clubhouse, a new 18-foot rock-climbing wall with Sierra Nevada Mountain views, and a new dedicated canine play area to expand their dog-friendly services.

Among the on-site additions, Tenaya at Yosemite has begun running new shuttles into Yosemite National Park. Tenaya Shuttles takes guests directly into the heart of the park for convenient access to Yosemite’s iconic sights and hikes. Tenaya Shuttles are available to all overnight guests for $39 per seat, with children two and under riding for free, departing from Tenaya’s Port-Cochere at 7 a.m. and returns from Lot 7 at 3 p.m.

“The experience at Tenaya at Yosemite offers an escape from the ordinary and it was important that we carry that overall experience through to our room design and services,” said General Manager, Brett Archer. “We have taken our guests needs into account through the redesign and expanded our on-site offerings with the overall goal of providing seamless service and simplifying their stay. We hope that, through these changes, they can further enjoy the outdoor exploration in our backyard knowing they have a tranquil space to come back to.”

Owned and operated by Delaware North Parks & Resorts, the AAA Four Diamond rated Tenaya at Yosemite is the perfect year-round gateway to a Yosemite National Park vacation. The resort offers three unique guest accommodations nestled along the Sierra pines, including the Tenaya Lodge, The Cottages, and the Explorer Cabins.

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Tenaya at Yosemite is home to an array of signature restaurants serving locally sourced, sustainable ingredients and craft beverages. For an all-day adventure, Tenaya arranges immersive guided outings into the park with Yosemite 360° Tours, along with an abundance of seasonal activities located on property. For rejuvenation after national park excursions, Tenaya offers full-service treatments at Ascent Spa, and indoor and outdoor pools with cabanas for private service. Tenaya is located just two miles from Yosemite’s south gate entrance and 62 miles from Fresno-Yosemite International Airport.

To learn more about Tenaya at Yosemite or to book, please visit, www.VisitTenaya.com.

About Delaware North Parks and Resorts
Delaware North Parks and Resorts operates lodging, food, beverage and retail services, recreational activities, and educational programming at destinations in North America, Australia and New Zealand. This includes lodging in and near many iconic national and state parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Shenandoah, Sequoia & Kings Canyon and Olympic National Parks and Niagara Falls State Park, as well as at cultural attractions such as Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Delaware North’s newly enhanced Explore Better content and travel planning platform provides a valuable resource for travelers who are considering a visit to a national park and other outdoor destinations. To learn more about Delaware North’s hospitality management expertise, visit https://www.delawarenorth.com/divisions/parks.

About Delaware North
Delaware North is a global leader in the hospitality and entertainment industry. The company annually serves more than a half-billion guests across four continents, including at high-profile sports venues, airports, national and state parks, restaurants, resorts, hotels and casinos. Building on more than a century of enduring partnerships and a commitment to local communities and sustainability, Delaware North’s vision is to delight guests by creating the world’s best experiences today while reimagining tomorrow. Learn more at www.DelawareNorth.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Delaware North Parks & Resorts

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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