Clearly, there were some themes that most parents are looking for in their destination hotel.
- Food! - The most popular response was a free meal with breakfast being the most popular. Some people wanted a hot breakfast while others just wanted a quick grab and go style. But, as we all know, traveling with a family = a lot of mouths to feed and that can get expensive! Starting the day off with a free meal for everyone can help to keep expenses under control. In addition to a complimentary meal, many parents appreciate a kitchenette in their room. This is another great way to save money on the road! And, for families with children with allergies, an in-room kitchen can allow parents to prepare safe food options.
- Ways to burn energy - The top response in this category was a pool for some family fun time. Some wanted an indoor pool, some wanted a heated pool with amenities and others just needed a pool to burn their kids’ extra energy after driving in the car all day on a road trip. Another bonus feature is a hotel with a splash pad, an outdoor play area or perhaps one with a park nearby. We recently stayed at a hotel with a park across the street which was great to take the kids to in the morning before we headed out for the day. Another free way to entertain the kids and burn some energy!
- Space - As a family, you need space! Extra space is ideal no matter what age your children are. Those of you with little ones who are still napping appreciate an extra room to give your child some quiet space to rest while not forcing the rest of you to sit in silence for a couple of hours (although I know a few dads who are happy to volunteer to take their baby back to room to let their child nap - and catch a little shut eye themselves!) With teenagers in tow, often times adjoining rooms is the way to go, giving them a little extra freedom but allowing you to keep an eye on them and make sure they are safe.
- Location, location, location - There were two popular choices around this theme. For families on a road trip, being close to the interstate was key, allowing you to get up and go the next morning. For families traveling to a destination, being close to the attractions was important. Convenience is key and when we are on the move with family, we all deserve for things to be as easy as possible. Being close to attractions allows for taking breaks during the day, those much needed naps, or even running back to the room if you forgot something.
- Room rates and cleanliness - It seems many of you look to travel review sites to get some feedback on what the “true” experience at a hotel is (count me as one of those people!) No one wants to arrive at their hotel to find their room is dirty or located all the way at the far end of the building, on the third floor and oh, there’s no elevator. Travel review sites can help to weed out those questionable hotels. Other important features you look for in your hotel is daily cleaning service, late check-out, on-site laundry, non-smoking room options and of course, reasonable rates allowing you to take the whole family along!
- Pet friendly - While some families want to get away from it ALL, many of you want to bring your favorite four-legged friends wherever you go! Many hotels are opening their doors to welcome dogs with pet-friendly amenities and even pooch-centered hotel packages you can book. It is getting easier to travel with your entire family!
