Since before our son could toddle, he’s been traveling alongside my husband and me. We’ve bundled him, backpacked him, and “Bijorned” him on boats, planes and automobiles. 

We’ve trekked together across many continents, and explored cities and deserts nearer home, instilling in all of us, a love of exploration and renewal.

Our family odyssey has taught us invaluable lessons — some profound, some hilarious, and some that smelled suspiciously like goat. Here are seven big takeaways from our travels that extend far beyond the school gates.

Curiosity creates lifelong learners

Young people sometimes show a premature weariness with life — it’s all algorithms and eye rolls. But the world outside WiFi is endlessly fascinating.

Our son’s curiosity exploded in the best way possible once he saw how kids lived around the world. We’ve watched pre-teens hunting for food with their parents in Africa, seen children clean their classrooms in Japan, and youngsters fish at dawn, in the Amazon.

In Fiji, we looked on in awe as children made music with found objects, showing a deep resourcefulness and creativity we rarely see at home. My son learned an invaluable lesson that day; when there’s no toy shop, you must make the toys. 

All our minds have been opened many times — and honestly, if my son ever loses interest in TikTok, I’ll credit the children of the Andes.

Confidence comes from climbing, not clicking

True confidence stems from real achievements and a sense of being capable. While American society often promotes confidence, it sometimes leans into a “fake it till you make it” mentality. The idea of posing in front of someone else’s Maserati doesn’t build genuine self-esteem.

True, hands-on experiences create a deeper sense of accomplishment and identity, and travel is a short-cut to that. It’s important your kids, partner, and family see you trying new things, solving problems, and having fun — whether it’s figuring out where to buy sunscreen, replacing lost contact lenses, or picking the perfect picnic spot.

Our family has learned this first hand during our travels. We’ve all faced moments of uncertainty and confusion — wondering where to catch a bus, deciphering signs to find waterfalls, or trying to figure out opening hours in another language. Tackling these challenges together has given us a “we’ve got this” attitude. 

Empathy needs no translation

In this digital world, connecting both to nature and to people has never been more important. I’ve watched our son connect to a Masai tribe in Tanzania and to a woman carrying a small goat in Peru. I’ve looked on as a beautiful lady served our son soda in Japan and admired our son’s gratitude in receiving it. 

I’ll never forget the time, high up in the Andes, a group of women grabbed him as he ran up the stairs to greet them at 12,000 feet altitude, and then nearly fainted in their arms as the lack of oxygen hit. They wrapped him in blankets and made him a cup of cocoa. 

It was extraordinary to see him give himself over to this tribe of mothers without a word of English being spoken. It takes a village, sure — but sometimes it also takes an Andean auntie with a flask and a good sense of humor.

Think outside the goldfish bowl

Fixed perspectives can suffocate potential and understanding but shopping at a busy weekly market, doing laundry at a local laundromat, or trying a food that might be considered a pet (side order of guinea pig anyone?), creates not just curiosity but also empathy. 

We’ve been to a cat park in Lima, Peru, and there was a shared sense of joy, peace and play with every human and creature in the area, and, in Madrid, a history-filled whole roast suckling pig dining, remains a family highlight.

In transit, we’ve had to visit a local eye doctor (Austria and Spain), a tailor for to fix a camera bag (Zimbabwe), and a local electronics shop to fix an iPad (Japan), which were all adventures of their own. 

And it’s not just kids who can learn. Camping is not my first choice of a vacation but when my son wanted to go, I rented an RV and it turns out, that for a few days, I can enjoy life in a mobile home. And yes, I brought half my house for a three-day camping trip. And yes, I used all of it. Don’t judge.

When the plan becomes cereal in bed

Life doesn’t always play out as it should and neither will your vacation. Things screw up, everyone makes mistakes, and sometimes things are less than the photo presented. We learned as a family how to research, leap, pivot and that sometimes it’s okay to go back to your room to sleep and wait to get out to the next place. 

On a walking trip through Japan, after a day that saw us hike at a high elevation for 7.5 miles, from Matsuzaki to Hiroshima, the three of us ended the day snuggled in our room, enjoying bowls of cereal in bed, instead of a group dinner. 

While exploring the Dolomites, a magical hiking day turned into a mad dash down the mountain when torrential rain clouds arrived with lightening. It felt like an episode of The Amazing Race to return to the tram to hitch a ride down before it closed for the day. Travel is chaos with a sense of direction, and learning to pivot is part of the package.

Adventures lead to smarter choices

Many people often have an unrealistic understanding of what’s safe and what’s risky but travel can teach us valuable lessons about making sound decisions and clearly navigating through life.

In Africa, when our son asked if he could stand and put his head out of the roof of our Jeep, our guide responded: “There are few rules out here in the Bush, so do what you want. I’ll tell you this however, the nearest doctor is six hours away and he is a shaman. The nearest doctor the way you are used to it is a plane ride away, so choose your actions carefully.” He sat down.

On a Japanese commuter train, we watched everyone clean up before they departed, and now we’re just as committed to always leaving our public areas just as tidy when leaving.

You can tell your kid to watch their phone until you’re blue in the face, but it may take being in a group when an adult is pickpocketed, such as happened to us in Spain, for them to take notice. 

Coming home with new eyes — and heated toilet seats

There’s a huge amount of joy in budgeting for a trip and anticipating the adventures that lay ahead – but mistakes happen. 

I once had to return a bunch of scarves to a Japanese museum gift shop because I’d wrongly calculated the exchange rate. And that’s fine because we also found joy in unexpected places; for example, we learned that the Japanese use heated toilet seats, and so my husband purchased one as a souvenir!

Returning home after traveling makes us fully appreciate the comfort and security of our everyday lives. These moments of gratitude, mixed with the excitement of our adventures, inspire us to value what we have and think about how we can protect and share these experiences for future generations.

From the peaks of Patagonia to the canyons of California, our journey continues. But the real treasures? Curiosity, resilience, empathy and an unshakable belief that cereal in bed sometimes beats fine dining.

Pack light. Laugh often. The world is waiting — with snacks.

Margot Black is a Los Angeles-based travel writer, mom and founder of Black Ink PR.

The post 7 Life Lessons Kids Learn from Traveling the World appeared first on L.A. Parent.

My family and I have not stepped inside a zoo for many years, but when we had a collective slice of time last Saturday morning, we headed to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to take a safari excursion and get a peek at the park’s new features.

In L.A., we charged up our car and let our newly licensed 17-year-old son, Sol, take the wheel for the 2 1/2-hour drive. On the navigation screen, he punched in the address — 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido — but before he pulled off, I handed him a foldable, laminated Rand McNally map of Southern California so that he could visually grasp where he was going. We live so much on the inside of our screens that our sense of spatial awareness continues to slip away.

Sol opened up the flaps of the map. “Wow, how much did this thing cost?” he asked, incredulous.

“It’s not an ancient relic,” I said. “It was $9.99 and I got it from Staples.”

“Wow,” he said again, his eyes wildly scanning the spread-out map, not knowing where to land.

“Find Los Angeles first,” I said. “Then, go south to find San Diego and Escondido, but take a look at all the towns we’ll pass through first before we get there. It’s like a preview of the drive, and it helps you get your bearings, I think.”

This quick exploration of our route was a prelude to our day of learning through excursion.

Jurassic Park vibes

We had not visited the San Diego Zoo Safari Park since Sol was in elementary school, but driving into the the park, with its jungle-like canopies of trees, elicited a refreshing familiarity. “It makes me want to watch “Jurassic Park” when we get back home,” my husband, Marcus, said.

“Well, Steven Spielberg was influenced by the Safari Park,” our guide, Delaney, told us. The entrance to the fictional Jurassic Park in the movie echoes the entrance to Safari Park, which was opened in 1972 and serves as the sister location to the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. The Escondido-based park, which mostly houses animals from arid environments, spans more than 1,800 acres that dip and rise like the savannas in Africa and Southeast Asia. It is home to more than 3,100 animals representing over 340 species.

Safari Excursions

While visitors have always been able to enjoy watching the animals by boarding a tram, Safari Excursions is the newest structure at Safari Park. Arriving a little early for our “cart safari” tour, my family and I lounged in the open-air, immersive gathering spot designed with a nod to a Kenyan safari camp, with exposed wood beams, lush greenery, wooden stools, rich textiles and bright wall paintings and textiles.

We listened to the sounds of birds and insects float in and out of the cool, airy space, allowed the photographer to take a family photo of us and discussed which animals we each were excited to see. While we were just a party of three, the lounge area can easily fit large groups of people at one time.

The safari excursions are an additional cost after the paying for park entrance. Options include:

Cart Safari – guided 1-hour cart tour of park highlights for $82 per person

Wildlife Safari – guided 1-hour tour in the back of an open-air truck that rides inside a savanna wildlife habitat for $118 per person (ages 3 and up).

Deluxe Wildlife Safari – For 90 minutes, guests get to venture into habitats representing Africa and/or Asia for up-close views of wildlife for $143 per person (ages 6 and up).

Behind-the-Scenes Safari – This guided 90-minute tour takes you to areas not available to the public, with opportunities to get up close to wildlife for $118 per person (ages 3 and up).

Behind-the-Scenes: Elite Adventure Safari – Here, guests can explore the park on a 3.5-hour tour to learn about how staff cares for wildlife, then hop onto a safari truck and tour the savanna. Some walking required. Cost: $80 per person (ages 3 and up).

We opted for the cart safari, hopping on the cart with a chatty and extremely knowledgeable Delaney as she drove us first around the “Asia” savanna before looping around the outskirts of “Africa.” We marveled at the massiveness of the rhinos and elephants, envied the lions lounging across fields of grass, waved at Frank the gorilla as he rested his foot on a tree stump and watched us watching him.

I asked Delaney how animal activists in recent years have responded to the safari park. While some activists believe that all animals should only live in the wild, in their original habitats, others — after taking a more intimate safari tour — develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the park’s role in conserving endangered species and extending the life of vulnerable animals through extensive healthcare even while aiming to replicate the animals’ natural environments.

One such success story is Msituni,a four-year old giraffe born at the park who was unable to walk. After months of critical care that included giraffe-sized orthotic leg braces, she gained the strength to walk around 11 months old. We watched Msituni and her older and taller fellow giraffes munch on twigs while Delaney explained that their enviably long eyelashes help keep flies and gnats out of their eyes.

Another source of great pride is that park is home to the rarest breed of horse in the world: the Przewalski’s horse — a critically endangered species of wild horse that was categorized as extinct in the wild until 1996. In recent years, scientists have used tools such as San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Biodiversity Bank to expand the strength of the species’ population. 

Roar & Snore: Glamping with Wildlife

Speaking of eyes, if you love the parks so much you’d like to close your own eyes and spend the night our in the wild, consider checking out the new “Roar & Snore” glamping option. The premium tents feature a queen-sized bed and two portable cots to comfortably sleep four.

The tents overlook the savanna habitat where rhinos, giraffes and other wildlife roam freely. The adults-only option allows guests to explore the park after dark, enjoy classic camp activities and hear stories about San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation work around the globe. Cost: $245/person

Unique Safaris

If you like wine or beer with your safari, you’ll want to check out these features:

Sips on the Savanna: Wine Wildlife Safari, Mimosa Wildlife Safari and Craft Beer Wildlife Safari. Enjoy sipping a delicious beverage among the wildlife of the African savanna. Begin with a meet and greet mingle and your first drink in a souvenir aluminum glass. Next, board a covered, open-air safari truck and venture into an expansive habitat for up-close views of giraffe, antelope and more. Then it’s off to a breathtaking viewpoint for more drinks and savory snacks while taking in the sights and sounds of African wildlife.

Note that Wine Wildlife Safari is offered in the winter, Mimosa Wildlife Safari is offered in the summer and Craft Beer Wildlife Saffari is offered in the fall.  

Another unique option is the Behind the Scenes: Wild Cat Adventure. Guests can spend the morning visiting the wild cats of the Safari Park. See the park’s wild cats, peek into some of the wildlife care areas to learn what it takes to look after these diverse cats and hear stories about the park’s current conservation projects while traveling in a tour cart with a personal guide. 

Cassandra Lane is Editor in Chief of L.A. Parent.

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As a born-and-raised Angeleno, the East Coast has always held a certain allure with its four distinct seasons, historic buildings on every corner, Ivy league universities, lobster rolls and peacoats.

Drawn to its beauty, peacefulness and fresh seafood, New England is where my mother chose to recalibrate after she and my dad divorced. During school breaks in L.A., my sister and I got to try out life along the Atlantic while visiting our mom in her home in Sandwich, Mass., the oldest town on Cape Cod. We’d have picnics by the lake, visit glass artist studios, tour college campuses, eat delicious seafood and take long walks along the beach.

Today, while I’m firmly rooted in Los Angeles and raising two girls of my own, I find myself longing to recreate those slow East Coast adventures that only a sweet New England town can offer, so I was thrilled to recently explore Rhode Island’s South County, the southern half of the smallest U.S. state, which is nestled between Connecticut and Massachusetts. 

Block Island: a step back in time

Shortly after my arrival, I met some other journalists and writers at George’s of Galilee, where we had our first (of many I’d soon learn) plates of calamari and “stuffies,” a popular New England dish of stuffed clams. We hopped aboard the one-hour ferry ride from Point Judith, an easy 40-minute drive from the T.F. Green International Airport, and sailed into a thick blanket of fog that transported us back in time to Block Island.

Though the other writers traveled from nearby Long Island and New York, none of us had ever been — or even heard of — this small island, which sits only 12 miles off the southern coast of Rhode Island. Just under 10 square miles, Block Island is lesser known than its more famous neighbors Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and Aquidneck Island, home to Newport and its famous mansions, but it’s full of fun facts that add to its Old-World charm and mystique. It’s the smallest town in the smallest state, the whole island enforces a 25-miles-per-hour speed limit, the fire and rescue teams are volunteer-run, instead of addresses, houses are identified by “fire numbers” and all mail is picked up at the town’s post office.

Block Island is home to only 1,000 full-time residents. One of them is Jessica Willi, lifelong resident and executive director of Block Island Tourism Council. “There’s not a lot of new things, but it’s new to a lot of people,” she says.

It’s precisely this absence of the constant whir of city life that attracts new visitors. We checked into our rooms at the charming Inn at Spring House, the latest addition to the family-operated Spring House Hotel reserved for guests 21 and over. From my balcony, I could see migratory birds taking a moment of respite on bare branches and the ocean just beyond the trees. Taking a note from the birds, I put up my feet and rested, too, a simple act we parents tend to forget.

We started day two at Odd Fellows Café, where locals and folks who just got off the morning ferry ordered their coffees and breakfast sandwiches before a guided tour of the Southeast Lighthouse. Year round, you can visit the grounds and see where the lighthouse once stood on the precipice of Mohegan Bluff before getting relocated 300 feet inland in 1993. Enjoy stunning ocean views where there is “nothing between here and Portugal,” except for the country’s first commercial offshore wind farm. From May 24 through Oct. 12, visitors can venture inside the national historic landmark, originally built in 1875, which includes a museum featuring photos, old equipment and other artifacts from the lighthouse’s long history.

Though most businesses don’t open until around Easter or Memorial Day, when the island fills with families and visitors carrying on tradition, the beauty of Block Island is also in its quiet moments offseason, where you can bike from Baby Beach for kid-friendly fun to Cooneymus Cove for sunset hikes, cozy up in a pub over stuffies and beer at McAloon’s, or reconnect with nature at Abrams Animal Farm and Aviary. 

Apparently, this is what my soul needed. Owned and operated by the Abrams and Draper families, the farm is free and open to the public year round. The families’ gift to the island was to “spark a little sense of curiosity and wonder,” says Logan Mott Chase, office manager of Block Island Resorts. “To inspire people to take better care of the environment and animals.”

It’s no surprise that our group of writers, who spend so much of our time behind computer screens, lit up at the opportunity to feed curious lemurs, eager goats and Lucky, a sweet, giant Bactrian camel.

Wickford Village: the allure of small-town living

We bid farewell to Block Island to take the ferry back to Point Judith for breakfast at T’s Restaurant. The small local chain serves up breakfast classics and local favorites such as coffee milk, Rhode Island’s official state drink. Properly caffeinated, we explored the shops, galleries and restaurants of Wickford Village, a charming town founded in 1709 in the city of North Kingston.

I was equally invigorated by the beautiful walk along Main Street, which parallels Wickford Cove, as I was by conversations I had with local artists and shop owners like Melissa Beckwith, whose dream came true when she opened up her artisan boutique Serendipity with her mom 10 years ago, and Guy Cassaday, a former toy designer for Hasbro-turned-painter and one of the 29 artists who operate the co-op gift shop Harbor View Artisans.

A delicious lobster roll lunch at Wickford on the Water rounded out our neighborhood tour.

Art and history in Westerly and beyond

Hungry for more small town charm — and lobster rolls — our guides took us to Wakefield, Westerly and Ninigret Park, where I finally got the chance to meet one of Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s famous giant trolls. The park is also home to Atlantis Rising, an international sand sculpture competition and festival that includes live music, kids’ activities, food and onsite camping.

In Wakefield, we visited The Glass Station, glass artists Eben Horton’s and wife Jennifer Nauck’s studio and gallery. Horton is known for his interactive art installation, Glass Float Project on Block Island, where he’s been hiding hundreds of glass-blown orbs around the island every summer since 2011. “Floats bring such joy to people,” Horton told us as he casually made one of the orbs that will be hidden this summer.

In Westerly, well known to Swifties as the location of Taylor Swift’s vacation home, we visited another historical landmark, Watch Hill Lighthouse and its museum. Though the lighthouse isn’t open to the public, it’s still worth a visit to walk down the private road to the southerly most point of mainland Rhode Island. Overlooking the vastness of the Atlantic and breathing in its salty air, I was reminded once again to slow down and savor this moment.

When we dined at River Bar, a few miles north, I needed no reminder to savor each bite of fresh oysters, homemade bread and uninterrupted conversations.

Hobbit houses, horseback riding and other not-so-rugged adventures 

We spent our final two nights at The Preserve Sporting Club & Resort, an upscale, all-ages playground of sorts in Richmond, R.I. During our property tour, which is one of the many complimentary resort activities, we realized just how expansive both the grounds (3,500 acres) and the amenities are. In one day, you can take an off-roading adventure in one of their exclusive Bentley Bentaygas, learn to fly fish, go clay shooting, take a yoga class, have tea time with a pony, relax with a luxurious spa treatment or, my favorite, enjoy trail riding on one of their happy-go-lucky horses. 

Though the resort is most certainly luxury, to my surprise it’s also very family friendly. From paint the pony experiences and ice cream manicure/pedicures to sling-shot crafting and archery, Rhode Island native and owner Paul Mihailides made the resort as kid-friendly as possible, in large part due to his own children and grandchildren who are often on the property.

Even the The Preserve’s signature dining experience at the Maker’s Mark Hobbit Houses is enchanting to kids and adults alike. Guests can book this whimsical four-course private dining experience with whiskey pairing or take advantage of the seasonal décor for a special photo opportunity, perfect for Easter or holiday cards.

I find myself itching to give my California girls a taste of those quintessential summers along the Atlantic shoreline, too, a glimpse into world-renowned Ivy Leagues, historic museums and, of course, New England’s signature seafood. But perhaps East Coast adventures can happen at any time, for any reason, always there to remind us West Coasters of the distinct food, beauty and charm of the other coast.

Nina Harada is a native Angeleno, mom of two daughters and Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

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For years I dreamed of visiting Lake Louise, a hamlet nestled within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. I would pore over photographs of the lake’s turquoise, glacier-fed waters surrounded by towering peaks and think to myself: “One day.”

My “one day” came last September when my husband and I arrived in the Canadian wonderland for our anniversary. And I can honestly tell you that no photo can capture its true essence. You must see it, feel it, experience it. This fairytale location visited by tourists from all over the world is the ancient home of the Stoney Nakota First Nations, who considered Lake Louise a sacred place where the earth’s energy gathers into a vortex.

When we mention Banff to friends, most aren’t exactly sure where it is, but getting to Banff from L.A. is like going to Seattle or Denver — super easy and just a little over three hours. We took the 7 a.m. flight from LAX into Calgary, picked up our rental car and cruised the scenic Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) to Banff — a beautiful and straightforward 1½-hour drive.  

By 3 p.m., we were munching on cheesy waffle fries, roasted cauliflower and margherita pizza at the Three Bears Brewery in downtown Banff.

We wanted to celebrate our anniversary day in Lake Louise, but since the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a grand alpine resort overlooking the lake’s serene waters, gets pricy during the summer and early fall peak season, we stayed in downtown Banff the first night, spent our anniversary night at the Chateau, then came back to Banff for another two nights.

When we were putting our itinerary together, it sounded like we’d have to endure a lot of driving back and forth, but because the highway is easy to navigate and the views are nonstop, our plan was perfect.

Downtown Banff: A charming base

Banff is a charming town nestled in the Rockies (Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade). The downtown area is walkable and filled with restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries, a grocery store, hotels and two spots to enjoy the famous Beaver Tails (we loved the cinnamon sugar ones).

We made downtown our base, drove to different locations after breakfast and came back in the late afternoon. (There are also public shuttles and buses to take you to various spots in Banff.) In the mornings, we picked up coffee and croissants from Wild Flour Bakery, took a 10-minute walk to the Bow River, found a bench and enjoyed our breakfast to the sound of the river flowing. We strolled the Art in Nature Trail, admiring the unique sculptures and wood carvings by local artists as we made our way to Bow Falls.

When you arrive at the stairs, walk up for even more incredible views. One afternoon, we took a relaxing river float here. If you want a little more exhilaration, rafting is also available.

Lake Louise: A fairytale setting

This glacial lake is a showstopper, but getting here takes a little advance planning during the peak season. There are public shuttles from downtown, but you have to reserve your spot in advance. The drive here is an easy, scenic 50 minutes, but there is only one public parking lot, and it fills up early in the morning.

We chose the fairytale option and spent one night at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, located at the edge of the water. The beauty of this lake will take your breath away. The rock flour carried in the glacial melt that trickles into the lake is what creates the jewel-like, crystal-clear, blue-green color that shimmers in the sun. And when you walk into this historic luxury hotel with the large picture windows framing this magnificent view, you, too, will feel like a prince or princess in a castle.

We spent our day on the lake canoeing the serene, glass-like waters, followed by hiking, dining lakeside and sipping champagne while watching the sunset. We woke up early to catch the sunrise the next morning, but our eyes were drawn again to the lake. Because of the glacial melt, the lake water is always freezing, even in the summer, so swimming is not an option.

After waking up to Lake Louise, Fairmont guests can take the hotel’s private shuttle to Moraine Lake, located in the Valley of Ten Peaks and only accessible by park shuttles. This gem has a unique beauty of its own, with an intense azure-blue color that’s most spectacular when you climb the Rockpile Trail and see the lake from above. The climb is easy with steps that gently take you to the peak. The unique color is thanks to the rock sediment deposited in the lake by the surrounding glaciers throughout the summer.

Johnston Canyon Hike: Immersed in nature

Jut 30 minutes from downtown, you’ll find a hike that literally immerses you in the canyon with a rushing creek below you, lush trees towering on your right and the polished limestone canyon rock on your left — an incredibly unique experience.

What’s wonderful about this hike is how accessible it is. The suspended catwalks guide you to the lower falls and the upper falls. As I made the gentle climb up, I was in awe of the fact that we were suspended above the water and the treetops of the forest. The metal railings and the paved paths allow all abilities and ages to enjoy this stunning scenery. We saw families with babies, young kids and older couples.

There are benches and viewpoints along the way to savor the scenery even more. There is a store and café at the base if you want to pick up snacks and drinks. We brought our own nuts, fruit and water and found a quiet spot with a great view.

Emerald Lake: Serenity in the Yoho Valley

This serene beauty lies deep in the Yoho Valley and is so worth the hour drive from downtown. The two-hour hiking trail encircles the lake and takes you up close to the effects of a receding glacier. The first half of the hike is filled with dry vegetation, but the second half feels like a tropical island where you’re walking on ancient tree trunks protruding from the ground. Even though there were lots of other hikers, there were moments that felt like we were in our own secluded paradise with glistening water, blue skies and glaciers.

My cousin Tina and her family had visited Banff and the surrounding lakes during the summer, and when I called her to get some insider tips, she had the best description of her trip: “There were times that I looked out and I thought to myself: ‘This is what heaven must look like.’”

My thoughts exactly.

Good to Know

• Take comfortable, casual clothes that you can layer. Evenings and early mornings are cold, even in the summer months. Take two pairs of shoes. I took my Brooks sneakers that I usually walk in and my Brooks trail running shoes for the hikes. You’ll go through mud and dirt, and most likely there will be some rain.
• You’ll need a Park Pass for Banff National Park. It’ll be easier to buy online before you go so that you can bypass the line at the park gate.
• Canoe on at least one lake. Each one is spectacular.
• Reserve your spot early for Parks Canada Shuttles.
• Check out Roam Public Transit for tips on getting around Banff.

Elena Epstein is Creative Director of L.A. Parent and mom of two daughters.

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Summer is nearly here — have you planned your family’s getaway? Experience Oxnard, the perfect beach town where OX Marks the Spot for your budget-friendly escape with beautiful beaches and immaculate SoCal vibes.

Best Oxnard Beaches

Nestled a beat past Los Angeles up Highway 101 lies Oxnard, equal parts vibrant and laid back. The city offers seven miles of uncrowded beaches, waterfront dining, and tons of budget-friendly fun for everyone.

Silver Strand Beach is a local favorite for good reason. This mile-long stretch is tucked between the Port Hueneme Naval Base and the Channel Islands Harbor, making it a prime spot for surfing, sunbathing, kayaking or fishing! 

Did you know Oxnard is home to Hollywood Beach? Well, it is! Legends like Clark Gable and Rudolph Valentino were known to hang out in the area and add to this beach’s historic charm. Now open to the public, it’s perfect for days of sun and surf.

‘Rocks’nard – For the Music Lovers

Yep, you heard that right! Oxnard strikes the right chord with its music scene. While you’re hear, kick back and enjoy the sounds of summer.

Start with the Heritage Square Summer Concert Series in historic downtown Oxnard. Bring a blanket, a picnic and catch live R&B, Latin jazz and classic rock under the stars. Then catch the summer Concerts by the Sea on Saturdays and The Collection at Riverpark on Thursday nights for live sets by the shore. 

Throughout the year, Oxnard keeps the party going with the Jazz Festival, California Strawberry Festival and Salsa Festival.

Free and Affordable Oxnard Activities

Drums Tour: DW Drums’ world headquarters opens its doors to give visitors a peek into crafting their renowned drums. The tour even includes a quick tuning lesson. Call (805) 485-6999, ext. 450, to secure a spot before your visit.

Channel Island Kayak Wildlife Tour: Explore the Channel Islands Harbor by kayak, meet “Chippy” the life-sized pygmy mammoth and keep an eye out for sea lions, starfish and pirate treasure!

Channel Islands Maritime Museum: Collections of maritime paintings, ship models and artifacts, including one of the largest ship models made of bones, await museum visitors. Admission is free for kids under 18.

Classic Car Shows: Cruise into nostalgia with Downtown Oxnard’s Summer Car Show and Cruise Nights on second Fridays from May through July.

Best Eats in Oxnard

 The Strandwich: The perfect spot to grab a bite by the beach, surrounded by “Nardcore” punk memorabilia.

Cafe Dolce Vita: If you need coffee before you can have thoughts, try this cafe in Downtown Oxnard. Get your coffee fix and a sandwich or a macaroon! Who says a SoCal beach vacation can’t have international vibes??

Fisherman’s Catch: Fisherman’s Catch is the best place to get coconut shrimp, calamari, lobster and more — all caught daily and at prices that make the food taste that much better.

The Annex Food Hall: The ultimate “something-for-everyone” dining destination, with 13 food vendors and shops nearby!

Honeycup Coffeehouse & Creamery: Coffee, smoothies and ice cream, oh my! At Honeycup, you can have it all, including ice cream handmade by a master chef!

Where to Stay

Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach weekend or a luxury escape with the whole crew, Oxnard has just the place to rest your sandy feet.

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach was named the No. 1 Best New Hotel in the U.S. by USA Today’s 2024 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards. This all-suite beachfront resort rivals spots like Terranea in Palos Verdes and the Ritz Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. If you want luxury with kid-friendly amenities, more room to breathe and less of the price tag, Zachari Dunes delivers. It’s where oceanfront elegance meets relaxed family fun.

Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor brings the waterfront vibes. It sits on the scenic boardwalk, between the beloved Toppers Pizza and Peninsula Park (home of the Concerts by the Sea series). With two easily accessible public docks just steps away, it’s a breeze to launch a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a fun, family-friendly day out on the water.

For the sporty family, Staybridge Suites features Dallas Cowboys Training Camp memorabilia in the lobby and gives fans of America’s Team something to brag about. River Ridge Golf Club is conveniently next door.

Prefer something with homier comfort? Homewood Suites is perfect for longer stays with apartment-style living, basketball courts, BBQ grills and freeway convenience.

Book Your Stay in Oxnard Today!

Angelenos looking to escape the heat and crowded beaches will find cool ocean breezes and laid-back vibes right up the coast. Why shell out more elsewhere when you can soak up the sun for less in Oxnard? Plan your stay at https://visitoxnard.com. Then pack your sunscreen, grab the kids and get ready to discover where OX Marks the Spoton a memorable family vacation.

The post Escape to Oxnard This Summer to Explore These Activities, Best Eats and Places to Stay appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Looking for an easy escape from L.A. for spring break? Las Vegas is a quick road trip or flight away. With temperate springtime weather, Vegas is a perfect getaway for families seeking indoor and outdoor fun. 

Here are five of our favorite family-friendly Vegas picks this spring:

1. Shark Reef Aquarium: Dive Into Underwater Adventures

The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino will celebrate its 25th anniversary this summer with special events and activations. For now, visitors can view displays with more than 3,400 creatures from 140 species, including 14 types of sharks within 1.6 million gallons of water and 14 exhibits. Guests also can “dive” into the ocean depths through the immersive Undersea Explorer Virtual Reality theater. For an extra fee, kids (and adults) can feed sharks, sea turtles and stingrays. Tickets: $24 and up.

2. Sphere Experience: Futuristic Fun for the Whole Family

If it’s in your budget, Sphere is worth the splurge. At The Sphere Experience, guests can chat and even crack jokes with the world’s most advanced humanoid robot, Aura, and marvel at a 50-foot holographic wall. Included in the experience is a screening of “Postcard from Earth” from Academy Award-nominated director Darren Aronofsky.

The sci-fi-meets-nature, 4D film features seat haptics with active movement sensations, flashing lights, visual and sound effects and atmospheric simulations of fog, scents and wind. (Pregnant women and those with sensory sensitivities should consider whether it’s for them. Accessible seating is available upon request.).

Word to the wise: Lower seats are best if you tend to get queasy. In addition, Sphere’s spectacular spring lineup of multi-sensory entertainment features immersive concert film V-U2, plus shows by Dead & Company with John Mayer, the Eagles and Kenny Chesney. (Backstreet Boys will take the stage in July.) Tickets: $95 and up, depending on the type of event.

3. Family Pools and Movie Nights

Las Vegas resorts are renowned for their lavish pools, and poolside time is a fun way for families to spend Vegas downtime together. Non-gaming (aka no casino) resort Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas offers a high-class, low-key vibe for its hotel guests, with chaise lounges, cabanas and two pools (one for families, one for adults). Bonus: Parents can indulge in a range of restorative poolside massages while staying within earshot of splashing kids, including chair massage, chaise-lounge massage and traditional table massage in an open-air or private cabana. Try the signature Relaxation Massage, the Cabana Cool Stone Massage or the Lounging Around Focus Massage. 

For extra relaxation or should the temps soar, cooling collagen masks are applied, along with nourishing massage oils and tropical scrubs to create an aroma sensory experience by the resort’s expert therapists (Dear reader: The massage I experienced on a scorching day last July from Alexandra was one of the best of my life). Guests come away refreshed — and with a small gift. “Our pool therapists always add a special touch by giving guests a little wellness takeaway so they can remember their massage experience they had at the pool,” says the resort’s spa director, Michelle Wilkos. Pricing: $200 and up. 

MGM Grand Pool, open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., features 6.5 acres of elaborate water fun, including four swimming pools, three whirlpools, cascading waterfalls and a lazy river (until 5 p.m.). Pool bars serve tropical drinks and poolside fare (and massage) is available. Cost: $50/all-day access per person; additional fees for food/drinks, poolside seating and cabanas. Free entry and seating for MGM Grand guests, depending on availability.

Resorts World’s Family Pool at its mega pool complex features a playful water attraction to cool off younger kids amid giggles. Reopens in May. Free for hotel guests.

To kick off pool season, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is offering Dive Into Bleau rates, with up to a 20% discount on hotel stays and a $50 daily resort credit. The Oasis Cinema Club at Oasis Pool is back every Friday starting May 2, featuring favorite family flicks such as “Barbie,” “Inside Out 2,” “Toy Story,” “Avengers: Endgame” and “The Incredibles” projected on a poolside screen. Enjoy a menu serving tasty takes on concession classics. Admission: $10 for non-hotel guests; free for Fontainebleau Rewards members, hotel guests and kids 5 and under. Daybeds and cabanas available for a fee. Tickets here.

Dive In Movies at The Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool, the Strip’s rooftop poolside (or in-pool) movie night, returns weekly on Mondays beginning May 19, inviting families to enjoy classic and recent blockbusters on the resort’s 65-foot screen, along with stellar views of the spectacular Las Vegas skyline. Premium daybeds and cabanas can be reserved with a food/beverage minimum. Admission: $15 for non-hotel guests, $10 for locals. Free for MGM Rewards members, hotel guests, first responders and military. Tickets here.

4. Beachy Vibes

At Mandalay Bay Beach, an 11-acre aquatic playground on the Strip, families can ride tides in the wave pool, play in the sand, flow along the lazy river under refreshing waterfalls, lounge in a lagoon, chill in a cabana and more. The Beach Bar and Grill offers bites and drinks at three bars. Cost: $30/weekdays; $40/weekends all-day access per person; additional fees for food/drinks, seating and cabanas; free for hotel guests.

5. Top Thrills: High Roller, Zip Line and Iconic Vegas Rides

Thrill-seeking kids and parents who want adrenalin-pumping fun can enjoy breezy aerial views while experiencing the highest amusements in Las Vegas (and even in the world).

High Roller Observation Wheel & Fly LINQ Zipline

The High Roller Observation Wheel is 550 feet high and is the tallest Ferris wheel in North America. The experience features 28 spherical (and, yes, air-conditioned!) cabins for up to 40 guests, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows for 360-degree Las Vegas views Extra fun: At night, the wheel glows, with changing colored lighting synced to hit songs. The full-rotation ride lasts 30 minutes. Tickets: $10 and up, free for kids 3 and under.

Bold ones can soar on the Strip’s only zipline, Fly LINQ. Riders launch from a 12-story tower and fly 1,121 feet from Las Vegas Boulevard, down The LINQ Promenade and finish at the High Roller at up to 35 miles per hour. Tickets: $49 and up; some discounts apply.

The Big Apple Coaster & Arcade

The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York is the first in the world to include a 180-degree “heartline” twist and dive. The heart-pounding ride speeds up to over 67 mph — with twists, turns and loops, whizzing by Strip views. Catch your breath (or wait out the ride) at The Big Apple Arcade for family-friendly games. Tickets: $25 and up.

The Strat Tower

Four of the world’s highest rides are located in one place at The Strat in Las Vegas. The Tower (at 1,149 feet tall) is the highest observation tower in the U.S. Your bravest family members (at least 4 feet tall) can free fall 855 feet at 40 mph on the SkyJump or catapult 1,081 feet up — and down — on the Big Shot. Riders beware: G forces are real. (The X-Scream dangling teeter-totter is currently down for maintenance.) For a more mellow, but still breathtaking experience, you can enjoy unparalleled views of Las Vegas and beyond at the sky-high indoor and outdoor observation decks, plus food and drinks at the highest dining spot and bar in Vegas. Tickets: $21.95 and up.

Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck

If you’re in Vegas, but your heart’s in Paris (oui, c’est moi!) or you just want to take in an iconic, high-altitude experience with your family, you won’t want to miss out on the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at the Paris Las Vegas resort on the Strip. A half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower landmark in Paris, France, the tower takes guests 46 stories (541 feet) high for 360-degree views. Mirroring the nightly, glittery illuminations of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Las Vegas attraction also offers a synchronized twinkling, colored lights event for all visitors to see for free on the Strip. The light show happens every night for 30 minutes from sunset to midnight. Tower tickets: $19 and up; some discounts apply.

There’s so much for families to enjoy in Las Vegas, aka “Disneyland East.” For more family-friendly ideas, including deals, visit Visit Las Vegas for the latest and greatest.

The post Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Las Vegas This Spring appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Ready to experience spring in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park? While a superbloom isn’t expected due to low rainfall, visitors can still find desert wildflowers in hidden canyons and enjoy the park’s stunning slot canyons, palm oases, and stargazing.

Explore with affordable guided hikes, astronomy programs, and family camping experiences offered by Anza-Borrego Foundation. Plan your adventure responsibly—stay on trails, pack out waste, and respect wildlife.

Will There Be a Wildflower Bloom This Season?

As spring approaches, you may wonder if Anza-Borrego Desert State Park will experience one of its famed wildflower blooms this season. Unfortunately, due to the desert receiving virtually no significant rain this season, a large-scale bloom is not expected. These breathtaking blooms, which blanket the desert floor with vibrant colors, require substantial and well-timed rainfall to occur—a weather pattern we haven’t seen this season.

While a significant bloom is unlikely, the good news is the desert will still have some blooms here and there, with higher concentrations in remote canyons. Hardy perennial plants like agave, brittlebush, and ocotillo can still be found blooming, adding splashes of color to the landscape. Visitors who take the time to explore will be rewarded with the simple beauty of these resilient desert plants. Even in drier years, the desert’s flowers offer a reminder of nature’s resilience and beauty.

Those planning a visit can check for updates on wildflower sightings and bloom conditions throughout the spring by visiting Anza-Borrego Foundation’s wildflower page. The page will be regularly updated with information to help you plan your trip and discover where to find the best blooms of the season.

Spring in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is More Than Just Wildflowers

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park remains an incredible destination for adventure, solitude and discovery. With spring’s mild temperatures, it is the best time to explore the Park’s slot canyons and hidden palm oases and to view the breathtaking night skies.

To help visitors make the most of their experience, Anza-Borrego Foundation (ABF) offers a range of affordable programs and guided experiences, ensuring that everyone—from families to seasoned adventurers—can connect with the desert.

Affordable & Accessible ABF Programs:

• Family Camping Program ($25 for 4 people) – A budget-friendly way to introduce families to camping in the desert, with all gear, food, guided hikes, and activities included in the price.
• Guided Hikes – Experience the desert’s most breathtaking trails with knowledgeable guides.
• Astronomy Programs – Gaze at the stars and planets, guided by experts, in one of the best stargazing locations in the U.S.
• Plant Walks – Join botany experts and learn about the Park’s flora.

ABF members receive exclusive discounts on all guided programs, making exploring and learning from local experts even more affordable. Membership also directly supports conservation, ensuring these experiences remain available for future generations. To learn more visit www.theabf.org/membership.

How to Explore Responsibly: Safety & Responsible Recreation Tips

Responsible recreation is more critical than ever, with more visitors flocking to the Park in the spring. Protecting the desert ensures future generations can enjoy its beauty for years.

• Stay on Trails – Off-trail hiking can damage delicate desert ecosystems, including sensitive cryptobiotic soil, a hidden hero of the desert.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out – Carry all waste out with you.
• Respect Wildlife – Keep your distance from wildlife, including endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep, snakes and nesting birds.
• Be Prepared – The desert is remote and rugged with unreliable access to mobile service. Bring extra water and sun protection and let someone know your plans.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts – Campfires are allowed in camper-provided metal containers with bottoms and sides or in park-provided metal fire rings in primitive campsites. Illegal ground fires are prohibited.

Spring in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a perfect time to explore the desert’s rugged beauty, rich history, and endless experiences. Plan your desert adventure today!

For the latest event updates, affordable adventure programs, membership information, and trip-planning resources, visit www.theabf.org.

About Anza-Borrego Foundation

Anza-Borrego Foundation is the official nonprofit partner of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. ABF is dedicated to supporting the Park through direct financial support, education, outreach, and conservation.

The post Beyond the Blooms: All the Ways to Enjoy Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in Spring appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Captivated by the gritty, breathtaking landscapes of popular show “Yellowstone?” An authentic dude ranch in Quincy, Calif., Greenhorn Ranch, offers a chance to experience a similar natural beauty. 

Located just an hour and a half from Reno in the stunning “Lost Sierras,” this authentic guest ranch, California’s last of its kind, immerses guests in the heart of western charm and adventure. For more than 60 years, Greenhorn Ranch has welcomed visitors to its 608-acre oasis getaway, offering expansive, rugged beauty rivaling  the magnificent landscapes of “Yellowstone.” Guests can unplug and reconnect with nature in one of the newly renovated rustic cabins, a cozy lodge room or a refurbished Airstream trailer.

The all-inclusive experience at Greenhorn Ranch features gourmet meals by Chef Brian Doyle, along with casual trailside cookouts encapsulating the western spirit. The vast acreage provides plenty of opportunities for adventure: horseback riding, mountain biking, fly fishing and more. Guests can end their day unwinding at The Saloon with drinks, line dancing and live music. 

Open from May through October, Greenhorn Ranch offers an unforgettable western getaway set against the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Lost Sierras. Consider adding it to your list of 2025 travel adventures. Learn more at greenhornranch.com.

The post California’s Greenhorn Ranch: A Real-Life ‘Yellowstone’ Adventure appeared first on L.A. Parent.

By the Catalina Team

A Family Adventure at Catalina White’s Landing
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature at Catalina White’s Landing, a new family camp nestled along the largest beach of Catalina Island, just off the coast of Southern California. This idyllic getaway is designed for families looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures and create unforgettable memories together. 

Discover the Natural Beauty of Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a hidden gem of Southern California, offering stunning landscapes, charming rocky hills, wide sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Families staying at Catalina White’s Landing can explore what the island has to offer, with activities such as kayaking, hiking and wildlife watching. Whether it’s taking a peaceful morning walk along the beach or an exciting boat excursion to discover marine life, you’ll be mesmerized by the charm and beauty of the island. 

Sleep Under the Stars in the Heart of Nature
At Catalina White’s Landing, you’ll share your passion for the great outdoors with your loved ones. Whether you stay in a cozy beach cabin or a ready-to-camp tent, your accommodation is thoughtfully placed within a stunning natural setting. Fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up recharged, ready for a day full of adventure. It’s the perfect way to escape for a weekend and enjoy fantastic vacations. 

Travel Light, Camp Comfortably
Reconnect with your summer-camp memories and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Fully equipped tents and beachside cabins include cozy beds with extra blankets and pillows, some equipped with kitchen essentials and an optional linen and towel package is as well available. This allows families to travel light and focus on their experience. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed for comfort, providing the perfect blend between a rustic and cozy experience. Families who decide to take the all-inclusive package will also enjoy three meals a day, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy your stay. 

All-Inclusive Family Camp
For the ultimate stress-free experience, the camp offers an all-inclusive family camp package. This includes three meals a day buffet-style, and an activity program tailored for all ages. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the family camp package ensures you have everything you need for an unforgettable vacation and for you to create lasting memories. 

Littles Trappeurs: Morning Adventures for the little ones
At the camp, children can participate in the Littles Trappeurs activities, a morning adventure designed to embrace their adventurous side. Supervised by an experienced camp instructor, children will build tipis, go on treasure hunts and initiate at bows and arrows. These outdoor focused activities provide a perfect opportunity for parents to unwind and enjoy some relaxing time, while knowing their little ones are having fun. 

A Typical Day at Family Camp
Let us take you through a typical day at the family camp. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the main lodge, where families gather before embarking on a day filled with adventures. Kids can enhance their creativity with the Little Trappeurs program, crafting adventurers’ books, while parents can enjoy a run along the beach or some quiet time. After a hearty lunch, the afternoon offers various options, from relaxing on the beach to participating in volleyball tournaments or exploring nearby trails. As evening falls, families enjoy the breathtaking sunset, followed by a nice dinner, and end the day with an outdoor movie under the stars, by the sound of the waves. 

How To Get There
To reach the camp, we recommend taking a ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, Newport Beach or Dana Point to Avalon. From Avalon, you’ll catch a short water taxi ride directly to Catalina White’s landing camp, where your adventure begins. We recommend booking your ferry tickets and water taxi in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival. 

An Unforgettable Experience
Whether it’s seeing dolphins for the first time among your loved ones or sharing stories around the campfire, Catalina White’s Landing is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. In other words, this island retreat is the ideal getaway for families looking to escape and reconnect with what truly matters.

Want more information? Call Catalina White’s Landing at (657) 204-5526 or email catalina@huttopia.com.

After that, let the fun begin!
#VisitCatalina #FamilyCamp #FamilyGetaway #CatalinaIsland #ExploreCatalina #VisitCalifornia #BeachSide #BeachCamping #CampLife

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“1-0!” hollered the ref — a hotel employee named Karla — after a sleeve-tattooed dad spiked the ball. Water splashed from the blue raspberry ICEE-hued infinity pool at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. The mom yelled, “Get it, Axel!” and “Esther, pass!” Excitement was high at the “Ambassador” infinity pool at as a raucous family of 10 played water polo. 

“It’s a battle! Shoot, shoot!” shouted the grandmother. Later, the grandmother, Lynette, told me she was part of a multigenerational band of three families traveling together. Aww, I thought as I passed a child wrestling an inflatable alligator and two little girls eating potato chips and giggling, in tot-sized cabanas.

With visions of a slower-paced, child-free vacation, my boyfriend and I had left Los Angeles for this all-inclusive luxury resort in Mayan Riviera, located on the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. And while we were certainly romanced through spa treatments, a meal from a Michelin-starred chef and a choice of three pools, the hotel’s flurry of adorable family activities and amenities made us wish at times that our three children were with us.

A grand entrance

Located off Highway 307 is a mammoth, cream-colored wall that has a bridge jutting from the middle of it. On the afternoon of our arrival, it looked so otherworldly that my boyfriend commented that it looked like the “Jurassic Park” opening scene. We crossed the bridge and entered Grand Velas Riviera Maya’s 206-acre compound of jungle and mangroves. “We don’t want you to walk on the grounds. Call a shuttle, and we’ll take you if you need to get anywhere,” our driver said, alluding to the vastness.

We parked at the hotel’s check-in area. Bright letter statues the size of children spelled “SALINAS DAY” before a soaring palapa. Under that was a living room with air gently flowing through it. Our greeter, who offered us champagne, told us that Salinas was the “Jeff Bezos of Mexico.” Business people in tailored suits and lanyards streamed past as we sipped our bubbles and then hopped in a shuttle to see our room.

Exquisite moments

A wooden door the size of a castle’s gate swung open, and the end of the room looked so far away that my boyfriend joked, “Maybe we should call the shuttle if we need to get over there.” The bellhop pointed out the No Me Olvides mezcal on the dresser and told us it was made exclusively for the resort and not for sale at stores or bars. We fell onto the bed and did not miss the bleep-bloops of our kids’ iPads or having to say, “What should we cook for dinner tonight?”

That question was being asked, instead, by Michelin-starred chef Nahúm Velasco one short shuttle ride away at Cocina de Autor. We arrived there for our dinner reservation by walking through a Y-shaped corridor of covered walkways flooded with golden light. In those corridors and at several dinners, we noted that attire rises to the occasion at Grand Velas Mayan Riviera; women wore designer dresses dripping with golden jewels and men sported tailored clothes with freshly shined shoes. Everyone held hands, and so did we.

Cocina de Autor’s all-white décor — from linens to Carrara marble to a midcentury-style screen — lets the dishes take center stage. Our eight-course tasting menu surprised and delighted us, and the results of my request for an all-plant-based course sometimes left my boyfriend jealous. Years ago, when I ate meat, I lived part-time in Buenos Aires, where morcilla is king. Cocina de Autor’s vegan version, which was made with portobello mushrooms, was a divine reproduction.

Mayan traditions

During a property tour the next day, Kevin, the resort’s tour and travel manager, filled us in on some local lore. He divulged that the property was rumored to contain some aluxes, or “little people” of the Yucatan Maya, akin to gnomes or leprechauns. Apparently, the aluxes liked to play tricks. Kevin told us that the workers’ tools went missing for three days when the Grand Velas began construction on the land. Thinking the aluxes might be behind it, the workers built them a little house. “The next day, the tools were back,” Kevin said. Our kids would have liked to hear that story, I thought, wishing they were with us in that moment.

That afternoon, during my 80-minute “Bacal massage” at the two-story, 90,000-square-foot Grand Velas SE Spa, an angel woman named Sim Duy exfoliated my body with honey and rolled me into bliss with an ear of maize. My boyfriend was in another treatment room being massaged with calabash gourds. The spa rooted our treatments in the Mayan and Aztec traditions of using sacred plants to heal. 

Family fun 

A popsicle cart wheeled by us the next day as we read novels and napped by the “Ambassador pool.” I imagined our kids choosing their flavors and finishing with sticky red and blue fingers and mouths, then rolled over and blissfully fell asleep on my boyfriend’s chest. This was a weekday. The kids were in school, and we were in paradise. We’d won a lottery, I reminded myself.

I forgot about our kids all through lunch at Azul, a buffet-style, tiered restaurant on the beach hugged by a panoramic curve of open windows. With bellies full of plant-based sushi, tiny veggie tacos and personal Crème Brulés the size of arcade tokens, my boyfriend and I headed over to the Zen pool near our room for more quiet catnaps. 

On the way, we noticed an on-site karaoke lounge big enough to be a standalone bar if air-dropped into any U.S. town. Its liquor shelf, mammoth TV screen and soft leather sofas created a flirtation between us public-singing newbies (at least around each other): “Would you?” I asked. “Maybe,” he said. “Let’s put a pin in this,” we both said. Then, a little girl in a flouncy dress walked up to the stage, and the lyrics to Frozen’s “Let It Go” rolled down the screen behind her. The performance, of course, melted the girl’s family.

Sing your heart out

We did karaoke the next night. My boyfriend sang Poison’s “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” and I rapped De La Soul’s “Magic Number.” I sang my song as an homage to my 10-year-old son who performed it weeks prior at his school talent show, and I couldn’t wait to see how cool or uncool he would think it was when we got home (flash forward: I got neither answer, but when his face broke into a Cheshire cat grin, it was worth emotional millions).

Our romantic getaway ended the following day, and as we passed the Margaritaville restaurant inside the Cancun airport en route to LAX, we enjoyed one last meal that didn’t require three children squabbling and dragging us all over the food court. We asked ourselves, “Was something missing all along, or did we get the experience we needed?” 

Let’s just say we’re bringing them next time.

Stacy Suaya is a Los Angeles-based writer who focuses on travel, art, design and architecture. 

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