With the holidays behind us and winter in full swing, now might be just the time to plan a vacation — yes, even if you’re newly divorced.
Adapting to a New Normal
When you and your children are in the process of healing from a divorce, there are many transitions you’ll face as you adjust to this new normal. But in the midst of these changes, it’s important to keep the emphasis on moving forward as a family, and one way to reinforce that is taking a vacation — just you and the kids.
This time to unplug from distractions, routines, and stress of the divorce can help all of you remain connected, united, and focused on one other. So if you’re looking for some warm destinations that appeal to both children and adults, consider one of these hotspots for a relaxing escape with the people you love most.
Rose Hall Estate
Montego Bay, Jamaica
This eighteenth-century marvel of colonial architecture is built on a lush mountainside jutting over the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The restored plantation house will capture your kids’ imaginations, while you take in views that help you forget all the troubles back home.
If you love golf, take advantage of their two on-site championship courses. Meanwhile, the daily Rose Hall Great House Haunted Night Tour will keep your kids on their toes and entertained between snorkeling and sand castles. (Note: the haunted house is not recommended for children younger than ten years old.)
This storied Jamaican landmark will enchant you and your kiddos, making it just the slice of paradise you need to breathe deeper, smile easier, and feel renewed.
Disney’s Aulani
O’ahu, Hawaii
If your kids are obsessed with Disney and you want a reason to get to Hawaii, this is the perfect spot for your first vacation as a new family. With pools, waterslides, and miles of beaches, everyone will be having the time of their life. Plus, you can avoid the lines at Disney World and still meet some of your kids’ favorite Hawaiian Disney characters. Don’t forget to book your spot at a luau to truly take in the culture of the island while keeping your kids immersed and entertained.
Palm Canyon Resort
Palm Springs, California
In the heart of Southern California is this trendy desert enclave, which also happens to be the perfect fusion of child-approved thrills and parent-endorsed amenities. Palm Springs is known for its rugged scenery and distinctive wellness culture, making Palm Canyon Resort an ideal backdrop for pampering while your kids conquer waterslides and stay cool in the heat.
Don’t forget to venture out of the resort to explore the desert terrain. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to see this unique world from above or check it out first-hand by hiking around in Joshua Tree National Park.
Oasis Tulum Lite
Riviera Maya, Mexico
This all-inclusive compound on the shores of the Yucatan Peninsula is shockingly affordable and has all you could ever dream of on one deluxe property. Oasis Tulum Lite features both Mexican and globally inspired restaurants, live entertainment for kids and adults, tennis courts and bike rentals, group fitness classes, four unique pools and even a Kids Club with supervised, curated activities. If an oceanside getaway on the Mexican Riviera sounds like your ideal change of pace, this Mayan treasure will not disappoint.
Las Verandas
Roatan, Honduras
Off the northern coast of Honduras lies the exotic island of Roatan, and nestled within its sandy beaches and fertile mangroves is Las Verandas. This postcard-worthy complex of bungalow villas surrounded by exquisite Caribbean vistas is the ultimate escape for both outdoor adventure and relaxation.
From massage and facial treatments to the island’s only golf course and watersports like snorkeling, fishing, and scuba diving, Las Verandas will ensure that each of you feels restored, uplifted and invigorated.
Hotel Renew
Waikiki, Hawaii
If you want to experience Hawaii without the Disney infusion, lift your spirit at Hotel Renew. This sleek and ultra modern destination has a Polynesian vibe, and the hotel is situated mere footsteps from Waikiki Beach where the Pacific swells are a surfer’s dream. You’ll look out over miles of sand and take in the ambiance of distant Hawaiian volcanoes.
Wake up every morning to a continental breakfast before taking your complimentary beach gear to the water and spending every day coming back to life in the sunshine.
Macaw Lodge
San Jose, Costa Rica
This rustic, sustainable eco-lodge in the depths of the Costa Rican rainforest is a haven for wildlife encounters, nature conservation, wellness immersions, and farm-to-table cuisine. The Macaw Lodge is constructed with local materials such as bamboo fiber, the electricity is powered with solar panels, and the food is chef-prepared.
In addition, you and the kids can spend your afternoons hiking to waterfalls, bird watching, practicing yoga, learning to make cocoa, touring the botanical gardens, or participating in off-the-grid excursions.
Sky Ranch Lodge
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is known for its iconic red rock buttes and mystic healing energies and Sky Ranch Lodge is an unrivaled setting to experience the electric landscape. Bask poolside in the famous Arizona sunshine, roam the bluffs and canyons on foot or mountain bike, or treat yourself to a deep-tissue massage. Get out and about with the resort’s free shuttle, which will take you to nearby Southwest-inspired eateries. Head back just in time to watch the sunset paint a watercolor light show as you all unwind in the hot tub together.
Your First Vacation as a Smaller Family
The post-divorce transition can be a difficult and painful season, but you can find meaningful opportunities to bond as a family despite the changes in your world. Show your child that there are still hundreds of reasons to smile and a new horizon is on the other side this challenging time. While a vacation won’t make everything perfect, it can be the perfect opportunity to take a deep breath and escape the stress of home.
About the Author: Jessica Thiefels has been writing for more than ten years and is currently a full-time writer and content marketing consultant. She’s written for Reader’s Digest, AARP, Lifehack and more. Follow her on Twitter @Jlsander07 for money-saving ideas, health tips and more.
