IS IT GOOD ENOUGH?
|One of the interesting parts of my job is visiting different luxury hotels and resorts to see whether they meet the high standards we demand for our clients. The best way to learn about a resort is to visit it personally and try out the same services the clients will be using.
Recently, I spent time at the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas & Spa on the island of Maui. This is a large resort with luxurious, family friendly two bedroom villas on 6 levels facing the nearby beach. The two bedroom configuration is achieved by combining a deluxe ocean view villa with lanai and a studio villa to get the equivalent of a roomy apartment and privacy for both bedrooms.
The grounds are divided between two large North and South Towers, and each tower offers extensive pools and gardens. The beach is only a few steps away.
What make these villas so comfortable and practical for extended families are the full kitchen facilities with a microwave, stove top, dish washer, large fridge, table service for 6 people, coffee pot and various pots and pans in the ocean view villa. A slightly smaller version of the kitchen, along with a washer and dryer in each unit, is part of the studio villa.
It is easy to accommodate children’s meal times and individual tastes by having their favorite foods available for breakfast, lunch and, perhaps, also dinner, if they do not enjoy restaurant dining. There is a small market on the property, and a large supermarket nearby.
At the resort, there are two casual restaurants and one fine dining choice. In the vicinity, many other restaurants offer good dining options.
In evaluating the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas, I would give them high marks for beautiful surroundings and water related activities. The villas are spacious, and the ones from the third floor up enjoy better views. Depending on the villa location, the ocean views can be very impressive.
So, what makes a good family resort for grandparents, children and grandchildren?
- Good pool areas
- Easy access to a clean, sandy beach
- Comfortable beds and private indoor space for adults and children
- The capability to stock your favorite foods and drinks, so that the children’s breakfasts and snacks are immediately available. Children are more cheerful when they do not have to wait long for food.
- TV and DVD players for evening relaxation
- Enough space for everyone to congregate in one area inside and do things together
Based on these criteria, I would recommend the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas to multi-generational families who are looking for a special place to plan a family vacation that will appeal to all ages.
If you have a favorite family vacation resort, please share it here.