By Lynn O’Rourke Hayes
From FamilyTravel.com
Do you have a grandchild on the way? Are you hoping to assist when the new bundle of joy makes his or her debut on the planet? Here’s a way to make sure Grandma is rested and ready to be a part of the little one’s life. Put a Granny Moon on the calendar. Plan for yourself or gift one to a soon-to-be Grandma. Here are five ideas to consider:
Retreat to an Arizona resort. JW Marriott Camelback Inn & Spa
Soak up the Vitamin D and treat yourself to all that this luxury resort has to offer. Rich in history and nestled at the base of Paradise Valley’s Mummy Mountain, the Scottsdale-area resort is well situated for relaxation and exploration. Spa lovers will have their spirits revived in the 32,000-square-foot sanctuary, where indigenous plants and minerals, desert honey and hot stones are utilized to enhance the experience. Stay in private, pueblo-style casitas, hang at the heated Jackrabbit Pool complex, hike in the nearby mountain preserve or play golf on the resort’s two courses. Ask about their soon-to-be released Granny Moon package.Contact: www.CamelbackInn.com
Take a Two-wheeled Break
It will be a while before the newest member of your family will be rolling on two wheels. So, rack up your bikes and head off to a park or trail system and explore fresh territory. Or, change it up and rent electric bikes and go the distance. If you’re in snow country, move out on fat-tired snow bikes. The sport of fat biking, gaining in popularity each year, makes it easy to roll over snowy roads and trails. Well known as a mountain biking destination, Crested Butte, Colorado, offers scores of trails that will appeal to every skill level, including some backcountry options that offer top notch views.Contact: https://www.visitcrestedbutte.com
Fish the Florida Keys
During a grown-up getaway, chase big bonefish, tarpon and permit in the Florida Keys, one of the world’s top spots for saltwater fly-fishing. Practice your side casting and work on that double haul. Then prepare to be mesmerized by the reefs, flats and blue waters of these southern waters. Islamorada, comprised of six islands and billed as the “sportfishing capital of the world,” is a popular spot for eager anglers. It’s said that backcountry and saltwater fly-fishing were launched in this Florida community. Key Largo, the longest island in the archipelago, is said to host more than 600 species of fish.Contact: www.fla-keys.com
Explore Namibia
Before the baby snags your full attention, make one of your travel dreams come true. One of the least-populated countries in the world, Namibia begs to be explored. From the capital city of Windhoek to the stark Skeleton Coast, you’ll find a timeless landscape where desert-adapted wildlife — elephants, lions and the rare, black rhino — share the vast landscape with birds, antelopes, cape foxes and brown hyenas. Drive through barren moonscapes and search for small herds of Hartmann’s zebras or find pink flamingos and other migratory birds in a coastal wetland. Hike up Namibia’s highest ochre-colored sand dune and watch the sunset before slip-sliding down. Few people and sparse development translate into a magnificent display of stars. Don’t forget to look up.Contact: www.NamibiaTourism.com; www.AndBeyond.com
Soak up the Sun at the Acqualina Resort, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
Pamper yourself with a one-of-a-kind wellness experience. The Acqualina Spa by ESPA’s Sound Care Ritual treatment blends the therapeutic powers of music and massage. The relaxing journey begins with a foot massage during which guests review music choices via an iPad and custom, sound-blocking headphones. Options include original music compositions from classical and new age to Latin and reggae as well as the natural sounds of the ocean or rainforests. The French-based music application is reported to provide natural calm and aid with sleep disorders, stress and anxiety. Later, take long walks on the beach, soak up the sun and dive deep into a new novel aside one of three oceanfront swimming pools.Contact: www.AcqualinaResort.com
(Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel intel on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com)
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