by Fran Falkin

We are delighted that so many parents of newborns, and even many who are expecting, are anxious to know where to go, how to get there and what to bring along. Our parent site, www.FamilyTravelForum.com honored these resorts in 1999 and all are worth considering for your first (or first with a baby) family vacation. Here's a look at the resort today.

Beaches Boscobel (formerly Boscobel Beach)
N. Coast Hwy
Box 2, St. Ann's Bay
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
888/BEACHES; 876/975-7777 

Considered an absolute favorite beach resort by many FTF members, this all-inclusive property, located amid lush foliage on the shore at Ocho Rios, stands out for its exceptional staff, varied children's programs and fun-filled activities. Now a member of the Beaches Family of resorts, this crisp, polished and classy spot has something for everyone, as evidenced by its diverse clientele. Sports and recreation facilities include two swimming pools, a children's wading pool, nearby golf, four lighted tennis courts, volleyball, fitness room, exercise classes, windsurfing, waterskiing, snorkeling and a scuba resort certification program.

You can take reggae dance lessons, get your hair braided, or just relax on the gold sand beach. You can even consider a multi-generational family reunion as there is full handicap access and an elevator which rises from sand to roof deck, greatly increasing the fun for grandparents who might come along. And, a choice of themed restaurants (one for adults only) serves a bountiful variety to suit everyone's taste. 

Beaches Boscobel's Nursery and Kids Kamp for Toddlers is open from 9am to 6pm daily. Ultra Nannies (who receive training in childcare, feeding, CPR and First Aid) provide care for babies up to 23-months-old and toddlers (2- to 5-years-old) at the center. They are also available for individual babysitting and evening care in your room.  Kids Kamp for children (6-to 7-years-old) and pre-teens (8-to 12-years-old) offers each their own special program of activities from 9am to 9pm.  Teens (over 13-years-old) are offered a variety of daytime activities plus place to hang out in the evenings.

Toddlers can enjoy their Beaches vacation with television friends Cookie Monster, Grover, Zoe, Bert, Ernie, and Elmo through Beaches Resorts Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street, featuring year-long activities and appearances by beloved Sesame Street characters. The jam-packed agenda of Sesame Street-themed fun includes programs such as Sesame Street Stage Shows, storytime with Elmo, and baking with Cookie Monster.  Every Sunday, a Sesame Street character will appear before a children's movie plus there's an ice cream sundae kiosk and snacks, popcorn, and beverages. Your kids can participate in a parade alongside the Sesame Street and Beaches characters with music, clowns, and costumes. At an additional charge, families can meet with the gang at a Character Breakfast (reservations a must!). The resorts also offer themed parties where Sesame Street friends wish your child a "Happy Birthday" during a festive celebration.

 

Please log in to post a comment

Not an FTF Member yet? Sign up today for blog and boards access, our award-winning vacation deal alerts, and custom trip-planning assistance from our staff of family travelers.