Jet-Setting with Joy: Top Family Vacation Destinations for the Luxury-Loving Mommy

Ah, the joys of family vacations! Nothing quite compares to packing up the tribe and heading off for an adventure filled with luxury, laughter, and a little bit of chaos. If you’re a mom who loves the finer things in life but also wants to keep the kiddos entertained, you’ve landed in the right place. Let’s dive into some top-notch destinations that will have you and your family living the high life.

1. Maui, Hawaii: Where Paradise Meets Playtime

Why Maui? Because it’s Hawaii, darling! Imagine lounging in a cabana at the Four Seasons Resort while your little ones learn to surf at the complimentary kids’ club. The island’s natural beauty is enough to make even the most restless tots sit still—for at least five minutes. Between snorkeling adventures, luaus, and scenic drives along the Hana Highway, there’s never a dull moment. Plus, did I mention the Mai Tais?

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy: La Dolce Vita for the Whole Famiglia

Picture this: sipping on a glass of prosecco as you overlook the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, while your kids devour gelato and learn the art of pizza-making. The Amalfi Coast is the epitome of Italian charm with its cliffside villages, luxurious villas, and delicious cuisine. Stay at the Belmond Hotel Caruso, where history meets modern luxury, and the infinity pool is as breathtaking as the views.

3. Aspen, Colorado: Snowy Slopes and Cozy Cabins

If your family loves the snow, Aspen is your winter wonderland. Think ski-in/ski-out resorts like The Little Nell, where après-ski includes hot cocoa for the kids and hot toddies for you. Besides skiing, there are snowshoeing adventures, cozy sleigh rides, and world-class shopping and dining. And for the moms, a visit to the spa is non-negotiable.

4. Tokyo, Japan: A Blend of Tradition and Tech for the Curious Kids

Tokyo is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, where luxury meets the vibrant culture of Japan’s capital. From the enchanting gardens and temples to the futuristic vibes of Odaiba, your kids will be enthralled. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are must-visits, but don’t miss the unique experiences like sumo wrestling matches or traditional tea ceremonies.

5. Cape Town, South Africa: Safari Adventures and Urban Chic

For the family that craves a bit of adventure with their luxury, Cape Town is calling. Stay at the One&Only Cape Town, a chic urban resort with breathtaking views of Table Mountain. Take the kids on a safari at a nearby game reserve to see the Big Five or explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront. With its stunning beaches, botanical gardens, and rich history, Cape Town offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration.

6. Maldives: The Ultimate Island Escape

If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury and relaxation, the Maldives is a no-brainer. Book a stay at the Soneva Fushi, where your private villa comes with its own stretch of beach. The kids can enjoy snorkeling, dolphin-watching, and eco-friendly activities at the kids’ club while you indulge in overwater spa treatments. Evenings are for stargazing and gourmet dining under the stars. Pure bliss!

7. London, England: Royal Adventures and Urban Excitement

London offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern excitement for families. Stay at The Savoy, where old-world charm meets contemporary luxury. Your little ones will be thrilled with visits to the Tower of London, the Natural History Museum, and the Harry Potter Studio Tour. Afternoon tea at a fancy hotel? Absolutely. Don’t forget to take a ride on the iconic London Eye for panoramic city views.

Family vacations don’t have to be a compromise between luxury and kid-friendly fun. With these destinations, you can have your cake and eat it too—preferably with a side of champagne. So, pack those designer suitcases, grab the kiddos, and get ready for a family vacation that’s as fabulous as you are. Bon voyage!

Ready to book your next adventure? Share your favorite luxury family vacation spots in the comments below!

Elevate Your Beach Day

Nothing says summer like a day at the beach, but why settle for the ordinary when you can transform your seaside retreat into an elegant, luxurious experience? With the right essentials, you can bring a touch of sophistication to your beach day, making it a memorable escape. Here’s how to take your beach outing up a notch with some stylish and practical products.

1. Elegant Double-Layer Picnic Blanket

Start with the foundation of your beach setup: an elegant double-layer picnic blanket. Opt for one in a creamy white that exudes sophistication and comfort. The double layer provides extra cushioning and durability, ensuring you can lounge without your bum getting damp. Look for blankets that roll up neatly with leather straps, adding a touch of vintage charm and practicality for easy carrying.

2. Gatsby-Worthy Beach Chairs

Transport yourself to the Roaring Twenties with beach chairs that Jay Gatsby himself would envy. Chairs with a wood frame not only provide sturdy support but also bring a timeless, classic look to your beach setup. Choose designs that combine functionality with elegance, featuring comfortable fabric seats and backs that let you relax like a beachside mogul.

3. Beach Umbrella with Fringe

Stay cool and stylish under a beach umbrella with the cutest fringe on the top. These umbrellas not only provide much-needed shade but also add a whimsical, retro touch to your beach scene. The fringe detail sways gently in the ocean breeze, creating a picturesque setting perfect for both relaxation and Instagram-worthy photos.

4. Wood Beach Tray

A wood beach tray is a must-have for serving refreshments and snacks in style. This versatile accessory can hold everything from your favorite book to a delectable spread of treats. The natural wood finish complements the beach's sandy hues and adds a rustic elegance to your setup. It’s the perfect companion for a sophisticated beach picnic.

5. La Croix Beverages

In my opinion, nothing says fancy more than a La Croix. I’m addicted.No elegant beach day is complete without refreshing beverages. La Croix, with its variety of flavors and chic cans, is the perfect choice. These sparkling waters are not only delicious and hydrating but also add a pop of color to your beach setup. Arrange them in a cooler or on your beach tray for easy access and a touch of style.

6. Classic Picnic Basket

Bring along a cute, classic picnic basket to store your gourmet treats. Opt for a design with compartments and insulation to keep your food fresh and organized. The timeless look of a wicker basket enhances the charm of your beach day, making it feel like a scene straight out of a romantic movie.

Transforming your beach day into a luxurious and elegant escape is all about the details. With an elegant picnic blanket, Gatsby-worthy chairs, a fringed umbrella, a wood beach tray, refreshing La Croix beverages, a classic picnic basket, and a gourmet charcuterie board, you can create a sophisticated seaside experience that’s both relaxing and Instagram-worthy. So, pack your beach essentials and prepare for a day of elegance by the shore!

The Best Family-Friendly Luxury Resorts in Greece

When I got pregnant, I almost immediately regretted that I hadn’t done more traveling while I was single. But regret is a funny thing, right? It often holds us back from living our dreams and sharing these dreams and experiences with our children. Now, instead of living with regret of what could have been, I look forward to the adventures I can have with my daughter and how much richer these experiences will be.

Greece is at the top of my list for places to take her, right alongside the Maldives and Japan. But it seems like everytime I see an influencer post a stunning resort in some heavenly location in Greece, it is adults-only. So I took the liberty of rounding up some of the best resorts in Greece that are both luxurious and family friendly.

(And btw, did you know I can help you plan your next trip?)

Cretan Malia Park, Crete, Greece

Located on the idyllic island of Crete, this 5-start resort is my top recommendation for families wanting a beautiful, ultra-luxury experience that doesn’t feel fussy. Cretan Malia Park, a member of Design Hotels, has a robust childcare offering, including a Tiny Explorer’s Club for infants up to 3 years old. The host of accommodations - from suites to bungalows - is perfect for families of any size, and you can pick from your choice of views from pool to sea. There’s also an incredible range of onsite dining options and plenty of family-friendly activities, like outdoor movie nights, for some bonding time with your little(s).

As a wellness-loving, fitness-loving mommy, I’m always looking for vacations that let me balance downtime at the beach or pool with activities to get me moving. The resort has bikes available, tennis and basketball courts, and you can enjoy a treatment at their spa. They also provide yoga classes. Oh, and did I mention there’s a separate kid-friendly pool?

Amirandes Grecotel Boutique Resort, Crete, Greece

If you’re looking for a more traditional Greek vibe, then the Amirandes Grecotel is a great, family-friendly resort in the luxury space. Kids stay free at this resort, and as part of the Grecotel collection, it offers “Grecobaby,” a program where you can rent everything you need for your little from cribs to high chairs to bottle sterilizers.

They have a variety of family-friendly accommodations, including ones with private pools. Or, if you want to enjoy an even more lux experience, you can book a private villa for the whole family.

In the same vein as Cretan Malia Park, they offer a whole host of activities like watersports, horseback riding, yoga, and pilates. They also offer kids’ clubs, although they do not have a club offering for children under 4 years old.

The Royal Senses Resort & Spa Crete, Curio Collection Hilton

Set against the northern side of Crete, this resort takes everything up a notch (or two) with its individually-decorated guest rooms. Kids also stay free at this resort, and they offer a kid-friendly aqua park with slides.

While they don’t offer a kids club, I included this on the list for families that like to stick together on their vacations. They have a fitness center for the parents and a gorgeous spa facility.