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Fun-derstanding: Connecting families to the world through travel

By Sponsored Advertising Content November 8, 2016
Traveling with children is one of the most rewarding experiences a family can have. Familiar places take on a fresh new glimmer when you see them again through the eyes of a child discovering them for the first time. To a kid, a powerful connection with a place and the people who live there is often the difference between a vacation and a lifelong memory.
  
Fathom is in the business of bringing those powerful family moments to life. A pioneering travel company built for those looking for something a little different, Fathom takes curious kids, parents and grandparents to the Dominican Republic in a way no one has done before. Through cultural immersion, deep personal connection and engaging activities that make a genuine difference to local communities, a Fathom cruise connects family members with other cultures, new friends and—most importantly—each other.
  
Immersion means understanding
Every one of Fathom’s seven-day Dominican Republic cruises offers an ideal balance between the sun and fun you’d expect from a Caribbean cruise and a level of cultural immersion you simply won’t get from other styles of traveling. Thoughtfully tailored on-ship programs unplug the kids from their screens and connect them with the DR before they even arrive, making the powerful bonds they forge while ashore that much stronger.
  
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Discovering the Dominican Republic
In the DR, Fathom’s trips focus on Puerto Plata, an unspoiled land of turquoise waters, golden beaches, stunning mountains and arresting beauty. With the ship as home base, travelers spend four days doing what they love most: immersing into the local culture, exploring the landscape, relaxing on the beach, spending time together in Amber Cove (a brand-new travel destination designed with families in mind) and participating in optional “impact activities”—engaging pursuits that contribute to educational, environmental and economic development.
  
Fun that makes a difference
Managed by established local partners, impact activities connect travelers with locals dedicated to improving their communities. Kids and adults can plant trees, turn cacao into chocolate, build clay water filters, assist in the installation of concrete floors and other activities that teach the value of togetherness and community. Even the simple act of playing a game of soccer or chatting with English students makes an impact and creates connections that kids will carry with them forever.
 
A neighborhood at sea
The intimate 704-passenger Adonia ties everything together. A perfect spot to connect with family and new friends, squeeze in a little yoga, or unwind after a busy day, the ship features a state-of-the-art fitness center, a running track, and a fully equipped spa. (The pools and onboard activity programs help keep the kids occupied while the adults squeeze in a little downtime, too.)
 
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Family traveling is more than seeing and doing; it's about connecting, discovering new things, sharing stories and engaging with others on a personal level. And right now, Fathom is making that connection even easier: Book an inside cabin on 2017 Dominican Republic cruises until the end of May and get upgraded to an outside cabin for free. Call 855-932-1715, visit www.fathom.org or contact or your travel agent for full details. But hurry; this offer ends November 30, 2016.
   
When we travel, we understand. And when we understand, we all grow.