All Inclusive Archives - Boomerang Escapes

Why the Dominican Republic Continues to Be a Favorite Caribbean Escape

April 19, 2026 Lisa Rossmeissl Adventure, All Inclusive, Caribbean, Family No comments

When travelers tell me they want sunshine, beautiful beaches, and an easier getaway from the United States, the Dominican Republic is often one of the first destinations I mention. And for good reason. With direct flights from many cities, a wide variety of resorts, and options for couples, families, and groups, it remains one of the most popular Caribbean destinations year after year.

The Dominican Republic works well for travelers who want that “arrive and relax” feeling without spending an entire day getting there. For many East Coast travelers, especially, it can be one of the more convenient warm-weather escapes.

Why Travelers Love the Dominican Republic

One of the Dominican Republic’s biggest strengths is its variety.

Some Caribbean islands are best for luxury. Others are best for quiet boutique stays. Some shine for adventure. The Dominican Republic gives travelers multiple ways to vacation, depending on what matters most to them.

You can find:

Large all-inclusive resorts with endless amenities
Adults-only escapes for couples and friends
Family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs and water fun
Golf resorts
Spa-focused getaways
Beautiful beaches and turquoise water
Great value compared with some other Caribbean islands

That flexibility is one reason it remains such a client favorite.

Areas to Consider

Punta Cana

The most requested area for many travelers. Known for long stretches of beach, all-inclusive resorts, and plenty of choices from budget-friendly to luxury.

Cap Cana

A more upscale area with polished resorts, marina access, and a more exclusive feel.

La Romana

Great for travelers looking for a quieter setting with a beautiful coastline and easy access to golf and excursions.

Resorts My Clients Love

One of the best parts of planning Caribbean vacations is matching the right resort to the right traveler. Not every resort is right for every person, and that matters.

Breathless Punta Cana

This has become a strong client favorite, especially the Xhale Club side. Breathless works well for adults who enjoy a lively atmosphere, great pools, entertainment, and the option to mix fun with relaxation. The Xhale Club adds upgraded touches that many travelers appreciate.

Secrets Resorts

A wonderful option for couples wanting adults-only luxury, romance, and a more elevated, peaceful feel.

Dreams Resorts

A reliable pick for families. These resorts offer activities for different age groups, beautiful beachfront settings, and enough variety for both parents and kids to enjoy the trip.

Barceló Resorts

Often a great option for travelers looking for solid value, multiple amenities, and an easy Caribbean getaway.

Club Med

I’ve personally loved my time at Club Med. It offers a different style of resort experience with an active social vibe that many travelers enjoy.

Best Time to Visit

The Dominican Republic is a year-round destination, but timing can impact pricing and crowds.

Winter: Very popular escape season
Spring: Great weather and often strong value
Summer: Warm and family travel season
Fall: Can offer deals, depending on timing and weather patterns

For the best combination of value and availability, booking early is always smart.

Why Working With a Travel Advisor Matters

The biggest mistake many travelers make is choosing based only on price or a social media photo. The best resort for one traveler may be completely wrong for another.

That’s where guidance matters.

Some clients want adults-only fun. Others want total quiet. Some need a family-friendly resort with great food. Others care most about swim-up suites, beach quality, or direct flights.

Matching the destination and resort to you is where the real value comes in.

Final Thoughts

What I love about the Dominican Republic is how many travelers it works for. Whether you need a quick beach reset, a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a fun getaway with friends, there is usually a great fit here.

If the Caribbean has been calling your name, the Dominican Republic may be the easiest yes on your list.

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Branchburg, New Jersey, with agents in TN, MS, ID, WI, and SC.

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds. Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind. She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember. With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Why Beaches Resorts Continues to Win for Family Vacations

April 12, 2026 Lisa Rossmeissl All Inclusive, Caribbean, Family No comments

When people hear the name Sandals, they often think romance. But for families, the sister brand Beaches Resorts deserves just as much attention.

I’ve now visited Turks & Caicos four times, and one of my favorite group trips to date was a family-and-friends getaway with 16 of us at Beaches Negril in Jamaica. What made it so special was how easy it was for everyone to enjoy the trip their own way while still creating shared memories together.

That’s the beauty of Beaches Resorts. They truly understand that not everyone vacations the same way.

Space for Everyone

One of the biggest reasons Beaches works so well for families and groups is the balance of togetherness and independence.

You can have:

Family time splashing in the pool, dining together, or enjoying the beach
Kid time with supervised programs and activities designed just for them
Adult time to relax, enjoy dinner, or simply breathe for a moment

That mix matters, especially on multigenerational trips where grandparents, parents, teens, and younger children all have different vacation styles.

More Than Just Family Travel

While Beaches is famous for family vacations, it is not limited to parents and kids.

I’ve also seen Beaches become a great fit for:

Multigenerational celebrations
Friends traveling together
Milestone birthdays
Girls getaways
Family reunions

The spacious suites and villa options make it easy for groups to stay together while still having room to spread out.

Why Turks & Caicos Stands Out

The white sand beaches in Turks & Caicos are hard to beat. Grace Bay is one of those places that looks just as stunning in person as it does in photos.

Beaches Turks & Caicos is packed with options, from waterpark fun and multiple pools to a wide variety of dining and accommodation styles. It is one of the most requested resorts for good reason.

Why Beaches Negril Keeps Winning Hearts

Beaches Negril has a more intimate feel and sits on Jamaica’s famous Seven Mile Beach. It is a fantastic choice for families who want a laid-back vibe with plenty to do.

I also recently had clients there in March for spring break, and it reminded me again how popular these resorts are during peak travel times.

Inclusive for More Families

Another reason Beaches stands out is its commitment to welcoming more families. Beaches Resorts has earned recognition for its programs and staff training that help support guests with autism and sensory needs. For many families, that extra layer of care can make all the difference in feeling comfortable and truly able to enjoy a vacation.

Book Early

The best room categories, larger suites, and peak travel dates tend to book out well in advance, especially during school breaks and holidays. If Beaches has been on your radar, planning early gives you the best range of choices.

Final Thought

A great family vacation is not just about where you go. It is about everyone coming home with memories they will talk about for years.

That is exactly why Beaches Resorts remains one of my favorite recommendations.

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

Why Jamaica Stays in My Heart: Giving Back Through Travel with the Sandals Foundation

November 15, 2025 Lisa Rossmeissl All Inclusive, Caribbean, Travel Tips No comments

Jamaica is one of those destinations that wraps around you like a warm hug from the moment you arrive, vibrant, joyful, full of rhythm and color, and home to some of the kindest people you’ll ever meet. I’ve visited many times over the years, and each time I return, I’m reminded that the beauty of Jamaica isn’t just in the beaches or the sunsets, it’s in the hearts of its people.

During my most recent visit this September, I had the opportunity to reconnect with that heart in a deeper way. As part of my stay at Sandals Dunn’s River, I donated to the Sandals Foundation School Support Program, which provides books, supplies, classroom resources, and much-needed support to local schools across Jamaica.

This wasn’t my first time contributing, and it likely won’t be my last. Years ago, I took part in the Sandals Foundation’s Reading Road Trip, and that morning will forever stay with me. Reading to children, seeing their smiles, listening to their questions, and feeling their pure excitement for learning; it touched me in a way I still carry today. It’s an experience that lives in both my mind and my heart, and it’s one of the many reasons I continue to support education efforts in Jamaica whenever I return.

Travel Can Change Lives—Including Your Own

Many travelers don’t realize how far their vacation dollars go in the Caribbean. When you choose a resort that actively invests in its communities, your trip becomes more than a getaway; it becomes a positive footprint.

The Sandals Foundation works year-round to support:

Early childhood education
Literacy initiatives
After-school programs
Teacher training
School infrastructure
Youth mentorship and community development

My contributions over the years—big or small—always feel meaningful knowing they put tools directly into the hands of Jamaican students—future leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, and dreamers.

After the Storms, Jamaica Needs Us More Than Ever

With this season’s hurricane impacting parts of the island, supporting Jamaica isn’t just about tourism; it’s about resilience and recovery. One of the best ways we can help is to continue visiting. Jamaica’s people depend on tourism, and their warmth, hospitality, and spirit remain stronger than ever.

Travel truly helps communities rebuild.

Your visit helps keep locals employed, keeps programs funded, and supports the families that make Jamaica such a beloved destination.

How You Can Travel With Purpose

Whether you stay at a Sandals or Beaches resort or visit the island independently, there are countless ways to make your trip meaningful:

Participate in a Sandals Foundation activity (Reading Road Trips resume during select times)
Bring a few extra school supplies in your luggage
Donate directly to a vetted program
Choose locally owned excursions, guides, and craft markets
Support community tourism initiatives that allow Jamaicans to share their stories and culture

You don’t have to do something big to make an impact. Just showing up with intention and choosing where you spend your travel dollars matters.

Jamaica Will Always Have a Piece of My Heart

Every time I leave, I take a little bit of Jamaica with me, its kindness, its rhythm, its strength, its soul. And I always return feeling inspired, grateful, and connected.

If you’re thinking about your next Caribbean escape and want to travel with purpose, I’d love to help you craft a journey that lets you experience Jamaica’s beauty and support the communities that make it so special.

Reach out anytime, Jamaica is ready to welcome you back with open arms.

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

Where Water Meets Luxury: Sandals Dunn’s River Experience

October 4, 2025 Lisa Rossmeissl All Inclusive, Caribbean, Romance No comments

When it comes to all-inclusive luxury in Jamaica, few names shine brighter than Sandals Dunn’s River. Reimagined and reopened in 2023, this resort brings a modern elegance to one of the island’s most iconic coastlines, where cascading waterfalls meet the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

Located in Ocho Rios, the resort captures the essence of Jamaica’s natural beauty and lively spirit. Every detail pays homage to the island’s most famous landmark, Dunn’s River Falls, from the sound of flowing water that greets you upon arrival to the resort’s sleek, soothing design, inspired by the falls themselves. This includes the infinity pools with incredible ocean views and cascading water features.

A Modern Take on Jamaican Luxury

Sandals Dunn’s River combines Jamaica’s laid-back rhythm with world-class luxury. The property features 260 rooms and suites, including the new Tufa Terrace SkyPool Suites, where infinity pools stretch toward the horizon and views of the Caribbean are uninterrupted. For couples seeking ultimate indulgence, the Coyaba Sky Rondoval Villas deliver private plunge pools, personal butlers, and outdoor tranquility unlike anywhere else.

While I always suggest a concierge or butler experience, the entry-level rooms were impressive, as I was situated in the main building with views of the stair waterfalls and the beautiful Jamaican mountains, which sparkled at night. The bathroom and shower are large and ideal for a couple. And ladies, the lighting was perfect for dolling up in the evening.

Dining that Dazzles the Senses

Food lovers will be delighted by the resort’s 12 unique dining concepts, ranging from authentic Jamaican flavors to globally inspired cuisine. Highlights include Zuka, celebrating Central and South American dishes; L’Amande, offering a taste of France in the tropics; and Edessa, a nod to the Mediterranean. Add to that multiple bars — including the lively Lapidus Lounge and BLŪM Café for your morning pick-me-up — and every palate is sure to find its paradise.

Of course, no visit to Jamaica would be complete without some Jerk Chicken and a Jamaican pie. My favorite evening cocktail was the cream rum over ice. It was a smooth way to end the evening, but I do want to give a shout-out to the lobby bar, which served a killer dirty martini. Sandals also offers themed nights, and we were welcomed on the first night with a Caribbean Beach Party, allowing us to sample a variety of tastes from the sea to the land, all with those wonderful Caribbean flavors.

Adventures Beyond the Shore

No stay in Ocho Rios would be complete without exploring the island’s natural wonders. Guests can climb the famous Dunn’s River Falls, sail along the coast, or relax on the beach with a cool rum punch in hand. The resort’s partnership with Island Routes makes it easy to add adventure to your stay — from ziplining through the rainforest to swimming with dolphins.

While I didn’t venture off the property this trip, one of the great things about this resort is its location, with its proximity to the falls and other island explorations. On the resort, though, take advantage of the included watersports, and if you get lucky like me, you will spot the sting ray that resides at the end of the pier.

Why It’s Worth the Escape

Sandals Dunn’s River strikes the perfect balance between vibrant island energy and serene luxury. Whether you’re lounging by one of the sparkling pools, dining under the stars, or feeling the mist of the nearby falls, this is a place where nature and indulgence flow together effortlessly.

If Jamaica has been calling your name, Sandals Dunn’s River is the perfect place to answer the call.

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

5 Tips to Make Your Family Beach Vacation Unforgettable

April 25, 2021 Lisa Rossmeissl All Inclusive, Caribbean, Family, Travel Tips No comments

I am a mother of three now-adult children. I’ve had kids from all over the US, Europe, the Caribbean, and even the South Pacific. When you are a family of five with a mix of girls and boys, it is crucial to consider everyone to make your trip enjoyable. I’ve put together a list of tips below to help you make the most of your next family beach vacation.

5 Tips to Make Your Family Beach Vacation Unforgettable

Involve the children in the planning process.

Share and show them pictures of the possible destinations. Find out what activities are important to them. For example, I let each of our three children choose an excursion for our last family trip. This gave us 3 of our 7 days off the resort to do things we knew each child would enjoy.

Pick a resort with a good kids’ activity program.

Make sure the program the resort offers has activities that your child would enjoy participating in. Be sure the resort’s activities suit your children’s ages. Not all resorts have activities that entertain that “tween” and “teen” crowd. When your children are busy being entertained, you can steal some time for yourselves.

Pick a resort with a variety of dining options.

We all know how picky kids can be when it comes to eating. Make sure the resort has a good buffet option. It is also helpful when they have an American option that you know the kids will go for, such as a Pizzeria. If your child has any food allergies, check with the resort before booking to see if it can accommodate them. Often, the chef will meet with you to arrange the necessary meal plan for your stay. Several resort chains have now begun to include gluten-free options for their guests, as well as handling dairy and peanut allergies.

Pick a resort that offers spacious rooms.

When you are used to having your own bedroom and/or bath each morning, it is important to consider the size and amenities of the room types at the resorts you are considering for your family. Many resorts now offer bunk bed options for families of 5, separate rooms for kids, and family suites with 2 bedrooms.

Remember to relax.

You are on vacation after all. Consider locking the electronics in the room safe. Do activities together and apart (Spa time for mom?). But most of all, have FUN!

PS: Don’t forget to use your favorite travel professional to help you find the perfect resort match for you!

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

Why An All-Inclusive Resort Vacation May Be Right For You!

March 21, 2021 Lisa Rossmeissl All Inclusive, Caribbean, Romance, Travel Tips No comments

Why the Caribbean and Mexico Are the Heart of All-Inclusive Travel

When most travelers think of all-inclusive resorts, the Caribbean and Mexico immediately come to mind, and for good reason. Lush green landscapes, warm breezes, brilliant sunshine, and beautiful blue waters have been drawing vacationers to these regions for generations. Today’s resorts across destinations like Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, the Riviera Maya, and beyond cater to a wide range of travel styles. You’ll find lively properties ideal for social travelers, as well as quieter resorts designed for couples, honeymooners, and families looking to unplug. Beyond the scenery, there are some very real advantages to choosing an all-inclusive vacation.

The Freedom of Knowing What You’re Spending

One of the biggest benefits of an all-inclusive resort vacation is financial peace of mind. When you book, most of your major expenses are prepaid, including accommodations, food, drinks, entertainment, and many on-site activities. Some resorts even offer non-motorized water sports or experiences such as catamaran sailing. For many travelers, that means their wallets rarely come out once they arrive, aside from souvenirs or optional excursions. Knowing what you will spend before you ever leave home and not returning to a surprise bill allows you to relax more fully while you are away. And that is the whole point of vacation.

Vacation at Your Own Pace

One reason people travel is to step away from routine and responsibilities, and all-inclusive resorts make that easy. Each day, resorts provide an activity schedule with options such as fitness classes, beach games, and live entertainment, but participation is always optional. Want to try everything? You can. Prefer to spend the day with a book by the pool? That works too. Dining is just as flexible, with options ranging from casual beach grills and buffets to sit-down restaurants, theme nights, room service, and private dining experiences. Many of today’s all-inclusive resorts now offer elevated dining concepts and global cuisine, adding even more variety to the experience.

Why Families Love All-Inclusive Resorts

Families often find all-inclusive resort vacations especially appealing. Many top resorts offer kids’ programs for ages 4 to 12, allowing parents to enjoy some downtime while their children stay entertained and engaged. One standout option for families is Beaches Resorts, known for its extensive inclusions and age-specific programming from infants through teens. These resorts are also well equipped to accommodate children with special needs, making them a thoughtful choice for many families traveling together.

A Natural Fit for Couples and Romance

All-inclusive resorts are also incredibly popular with couples. Many adults-only and couples-only resorts offer romantic touches, including champagne on arrival, rose-petal turndown service, candlelit baths, and private dining. Resorts such as Sandals, Secrets, and Couples Resorts are designed specifically for romance, making them ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, and “just because” getaways where connection and relaxation are priorities. Destination weddings are another area where all-inclusive resorts shine, often offering significant savings compared to traditional weddings at home while combining the wedding and honeymoon into one seamless experience.

So, Is an All-Inclusive Resort Vacation Right for You?

Today’s all-inclusive resorts offer something for nearly every traveler. With a wide range of destinations, resort styles, and experience levels, finding the right fit is key. Not all all-inclusive resorts are created equal. Location, atmosphere, inclusions, and service levels vary widely, which is why working with an experienced travel advisor can make all the difference. Matching the right traveler to the right resort is what turns a good vacation into a great one.

This article was originally featured in Your True Colours Magazine and has been refreshed for 2026.

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Branchburg, New Jersey, with agents in SC, TN, MS, ID, and WI.

Something New in Acapulco

September 15, 2019 Andrea Ward All Inclusive, Mexico No comments

Looking for a change of pace? Why not try one of Mexico’s original tourist destinations in a brand-new resort? Explore the natural beauty of Mexico at the newest Dreams Resort & Spa. Which is situated on the gorgeous Acapulco Bay along the Pacific Ocean, this property offers 605 comfortable rooms for couples or couples with children. Dreams Acapulco Resort & Spa is opening Nov 1, 2019. Acapulco is a city the remains to be a favorite destination for its spirited nightlife and inviting beaches.

With a warm and humid climate, sunny Acapulco remains a popular choice for travel. Along the boardwalk there are many Mexican hotels, dance clubs and restaurants. While the nightlife is often a big draw for visitors, the area also offers plenty of great things to do during the day as well, including lounging on the beach, enjoying the warm water, shopping and enjoying water sports. One of the top things to see while traveling to Acapulco is the seemingly fearless cliff divers who dive from platforms off the La Quebrada cliffs. This has been a long-standing tradition since the 1930s and the divers can be seen from a platform for visitors or at the nearby restaurant. The divers put on a daily and nightly show not to be missed.
With Dreams opening this fall you can’t go wrong the AMResort Dreams properties offer unlimited luxury. This particular property will offer eight different dinning selections, it will have something for everyone’s appetite. The restaurants you will find are:

Barefoot Grill – Grilled favorites by the pool
Coco Café – Premium coffees and treats
El Patio – Authentic à la carte Mexican cuisine
Oceana – Acapulco style seafood
Portofino – Mediterranean and Italian cuisine
Seaside Grill – Sizzling delights served à la carte
La Tratorria – Italian inspired ristorante
World Café – International buffet with theme stations

Along with the eight restaurants you will have four bars to choose from as well with top shelf spirts. Dreams also offers evening entertainment daily for both adult and children alike.

Why not try out an old destination in a new resort this fall. Currently they have special pre-opening rates for travel between November 1, 2019 and December 22, 2020. Contact me to me to reserve your next escape…

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Andrea Ward is an independent travel consultant of Boomerang Escapes, who is based in Wisconsin.

She has been planning vacation escapes for the company since 2013 and specializes in Caribbean Destinations. Her primary focus is on the all-inclusive vacation experience for adult or family getaways for individuals and small groups. Sandals and AMResorts are among the specialist certificates she holds.

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

Our Top 5 All-Inclusive Brands for Families

August 18, 2019 Lisa Rossmeissl All Inclusive, Caribbean, Mexico No comments

When you are thinking of planning a family vacation experience, one of the best options to help our budget is looking at an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico.

All-inclusive resorts include your accommodations, meals, beverages, and most non-motorized water sports. In addition, those catering to families offer child programs, babysitting, and other daily activities, which means the kids can be entertained while mom and dad play. It is great whether you are traveling with just your own family, considering a family reunion, or traveling with your favorite friends. To this day, our group of families’ trip to Beaches Negril in Jamaica was by far one of the best, if not the best, vacations I’ve ever had. There was a little bit of everything for everyone.

To help you plan, we’ve compiled a short list of our favorite brands for family all-inclusive resorts. Within each brand are different options. The brands have a variety of partners for their kids’ programs. Below is the list highlighting each brand and examples of what you will get, along with resort options.

Beaches Resorts-Located in Turks and Caicos and Jamaica, this well-known brand is tops in family vacation experiences. Resorts have a variety of room accommodations and water parks, and they are partnered with Sesame Street. They cater to the very young through the teens, even including a teen night club called Liquid, as well as their partnership with Xbox. These resorts are also recognized as and certified Autism Centers. The largest of all the Beaches resorts is the Turks and Caicos, and it does require booking early for best pricing and accommodation availability.

Grupo Lomas (Formerly Karisma Resorts) offers three family-friendly options: Azul, Nickelodeon, and Generations. The various brands are located in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. These resorts also offer a variety of room accommodations to suit larger families. The Azul resorts have Azulitos experience, including beach, cooking, and cultural fun for all. Azul’s also has the My Gym experience for ages 4-12 and a Vassa spa kids’ service. The Generations resort offers the kids Eko program for 4-12 and a separate kids’ menu. As the name suggests, the Nickelodeon resort is in partnership with Nickelodeon. They have a fun, slim, smoothie for kids, a kids’ club, and of course, Nickelodeon character fun and entertainment. I am a fan of the Fives Azul Beach Resort due to its neat layout and design.

Barcelo Resorts-Located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, this whole complex offers a variety of stays for couples and families. Their new Family Club section has great accommodation offerings, including suites with 2 bedrooms. There is access to the water park as well as access to all the other property’s activities within the complex. Of course, like the others, there are babysitting services and supervised activities with qualified leaders. Truly a resort you’ll want to visit again and again. I have many repeat clients at this resort.

Iberostar Resorts-Located in Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, these resorts are similar to Barcelo in that they are a large complex with different resort levels catering from the family to the adult-only and share different facilities throughout based on which resort you are at. They have their children’s Star Camp, kids’ menu, babysitting services, and family rooms. The Iberostar Paraiso Maya and Paraiso Lindo are clients’ favorites.

Melia Resorts-Located in Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Jamaica these resorts. Within Melia are the Melia and Paradisus brands, which are suited for families. The Melia has onsite Splash Island Park suited for the younger children, kids’ club, babysitting, and again a variety of room accommodations to fit larger families. They are also partnered with the Flintstones’ Brand. The Paradisus has all-day assistance from a Family Concierge, an activity-packed Kid’s Club, and a complimentary walkie-talkie or cell phone for instant communication. Programming includes kids from newborn to age 12, with separate facilities for teens. We’ve had great feedback from the Melia Caribe in Punta Cana.

No matter your budget, the size of your family, or the age of your kids, there is an all-inclusive brand to match your needs for your next family vacation. The best way to match your budget and family to a resort is to consult with a travel professional who can go over the different resort amenities, room categories, and children’s services with you to ensure you enjoy the most out of your vacation. Contact one of us today!

revised June 15, 2025

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

Sandals and Beaches Weddings

July 7, 2019 Andrea Ward All Inclusive, Caribbean, Romance No comments

When I think of summer, I think of weddings. Are you newly engaged or planning to be engaged in the near future? Have you ever considered a destination wedding? Did you know that Sandals and Beaches is a leader in destination weddings? They both have customizable weddings, that are inspired by love and created by you. With their talented wedding staff at any of the Beaches or Sandals location they will help you create the wedding of your dreams. They even offer a free Tropical Wedding with a minimum 3-night stay.

However, most of you I’m sure would love to add your own touches and enhancements to make it your very own. Sandal offers the most Over-the-Water Serenity Wedding Chapels in the world. There are three in Jamaica, one at Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals South Coast and Sandals Ochi. All three of these have been blessed for Catholic weddings as well. They also have one available at the Sandals Grande St. Lucian. What is so very exciting about Sandals and Beaches is that they offer a program called “Test Drive”. This is where the wedding couple or the Bride and a single guest can experience the resort of their choice for a reduced rate, which in turn is then credited back to the couple upon booking 5 or more rooms for their wedding. The options are truly limitless, and no one wedding will ever be the same. If you are already married no worries, they also have a Retie-the Knot for couples seeking to renew their vows. There are several different options for those as well. The best part is you have a designated team of wedding specialists to work directly with you to make your destination wedding the wedding of your dreams. There is nothing more romantic then the Caribbean and Sandals and Beaches have brought romance and wedding to a whole new level. Who’s ready to say I DO? I am a certified Sandals Specialist and can help you plan that dream destination wedding.

Download Our Smart Packing Tips

Andrea Ward is an independent travel consultant of Boomerang Escapes, who is based in Wisconsin.

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

Personal Review-Pineapple Beach Club-Antigua

November 11, 2018 Lisa Rossmeissl All Inclusive, Caribbean No comments

Recently I had the advantage and opportunity to travel to Antigua with the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Board, but prior to meeting up with my business development manager I had the pleasure of using free nights ( a sometime perk of the industry) at Pineapple Beach Club located on Long Bay in St. Phillip Parish. For those not familiar with this property, you may remember it as Sandals Grand Pineapple, but they have since sold it back to Elite Island Resorts about 2 years ago. It is currently under some slight renovations (Nov 2018)

What’s great about this resort is the pristine white stretch of 1/4 mile beach with ever endless shades of blue water lapping upon it and the beautiful island greenery as it’s back drop.

The resort truly offers a true authentic “Caribbean Feel” to it, which was one of my favorite bits about laying back and falling into “island time” here. Like the rest of the island the temperatures here range year round from 75F-80F with amazing trade wind breezes and very little rain. Antigua herself seems to lie just out of the hurricane belt making this a year round destination.

The Pineapple Beach club is a value to moderate priced all-inclusive resort for adults only (age 16 and up). While it’s rooms might not boast the elegance of some of the newer larger resorts, it makes up for it in charm, feel, food and service. The resort had 4 primary areas for accommodations ranging from garden suites up to waterfront suites. The waterfront being the most spectacular of views on the water. I stayed in an Ocean View up on the hillside that had beautiful views of the gardens and beach below. It was a perfect place to sit on the balcony and watch the day come alive as the sun rose. The room itself was basic with king bed, armoire, table and chair. The balcony had 2 chairs and a table. The bath was situated with a separate vanity and sink area along with a tub/shower combo. One thing to note about the resort, is it does lie within a hillside setting, so there are quite a lot of stairs. Perfect if you are looking to keeping fit as the lovely fitness center was 70 stairs, not steps from my room. I did notice a woman with a walker that was accommodated in the garden suites near the shops, but I would not list the resort myself as handicap friendly. But for the active to beach chair sleeper this resort has a lot to offer.

There are 3 restaurants, plus the snack bar by the pool. The main restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner has an abundant selection and variety on the buffet. The two other restaurants do require an advance reservation, but are worth doing so. One is Italian fare while the other caters to the Caribbean flavors and seafood. The snack bar by the pool served your American favorites such as nachos, hamburgers, and sandwiches. Another great treat for lunch is to make your way up to the hilltop for The Outhouse for some authentic island barbecue. You won’t regret it!

The main bar serviced the bulk of the area and there is also a smaller bar near the main beach activity area. They do have beach service as well which is nice when you feel too relaxed to get up and freshen your drink. One of my favorite daily activities was to order the drink of the day. Mostly with rum, but not overly sweet as some other island resort drinks I’ve had. Mauvin the main bartender was great and would create us our very own special drink before we headed to dinner. The staff really did take a liking to the guests.There is a daily activity board, the option to go off resort to explore the island, and of course nightly entertainment. Often the evening entertainment was music in way of band or DJ. Note the entertainment ends by 11pm so this is not your all night party place. Non-motorized water sports are included. I highly recommend the Hobie cat with Keri as your captain. And to break up your tanning, give the Caribbean Dance lessons a try. Truly this place is a perfect Caribbean escape for those looking to disconnect (though free Wi-Fi in certain areas and a pay plan for rooms) and fell the island vibe. It is what the Caribbean is and always has been. And as they say numbers don’t lie, Pineapple Beach Club has a 75% repeat rate and the guests seemed more like family to the staff then visitors.

If you are looking for more information on Pineapple Beach Club or other resorts in the Elite Island Resort Family or just more on Antigua as a destination, please email info@boomerangescapes.com

Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.

Why Travelers Love the Dominican Republic

Areas to Consider

Punta Cana

Cap Cana

La Romana

Resorts My Clients Love

Breathless Punta Cana

Secrets Resorts

Dreams Resorts

Barceló Resorts

Club Med

Best Time to Visit

Why Working With a Travel Advisor Matters

Final Thoughts

Space for Everyone

More Than Just Family Travel

Why Turks & Caicos Stands Out

Why Beaches Negril Keeps Winning Hearts

Inclusive for More Families

Book Early

Final Thought

Travel Can Change Lives—Including Your Own

After the Storms, Jamaica Needs Us More Than Ever

How You Can Travel With Purpose

Jamaica Will Always Have a Piece of My Heart

A Modern Take on Jamaican Luxury

Dining that Dazzles the Senses

Adventures Beyond the Shore

Why It’s Worth the Escape

5 Tips to Make Your Family Beach Vacation Unforgettable

Involve the children in the planning process.

Pick a resort with a good kids’ activity program.

Pick a resort with a variety of dining options.

Pick a resort that offers spacious rooms.

Remember to relax.

Why the Caribbean and Mexico Are the Heart of All-Inclusive Travel

The Freedom of Knowing What You’re Spending

Vacation at Your Own Pace

Why Families Love All-Inclusive Resorts

A Natural Fit for Couples and Romance

So, Is an All-Inclusive Resort Vacation Right for You?

When you are thinking of planning a family vacation experience, one of the best options to help our budget is looking at an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico.

Categories

Archives