Grand-Friendly Franklyn D. Resort, Jamaica
This Jamaican resort has great kids clubs, a unique nanny system, special packages and activities for every member of your family.
Twenty years ago, Jamaica invented the "all-inclusive resort" and while singles and couples love the concept, surely guests with kids and grandkids need it most of all. Since family resorts these days seem to have thought of everything: convenient suites, kids-own restaurants, waterslides, toddler pools, minigolf, trapeze, kids clubs, family-together games and crafts; it's time the multi-generational traveler took a closer look. Here's a special all-inclusive resort welcoming kids, parents, and their parents.
"Vacation nannies" are words synonymous with, and unique to Frankly D. or FDR as it's known, the Jamaican resort that we have discovered for your extended family. Each family is assigned a nanny for the duration of their stay, who helps as much or as little as needed. Picture a mid-sized property, with pretty pink stucco, three-story units, a decent pool, smallish beach. Now add kids who have the run of the place, and nannies holding babies, watching toddlers, throwing beach parties - the ambiance is friendly and relaxed.
Franklyn D. Resort has 76 suites with balconies on Jamaica's north coast, 45 miles from the Montego Bay airport. Ground-floor suites are huge, with full kitchen, large sitting area, master bedroom, kids' bedroom, and two bathrooms. Up a short flight of stairs, two-story suites are larger still.
Several nights a week, a five-course dinner is served on a seaside boardwalk. Kids are welcome, or can eat at their own beachside restaurant.
Activities include scuba with instruction for ages 12 and up, snorkeling trips and glass bottom boat rides to a coral reef, kayaking in a sheltered area, or sliding the 100-foot waterslide. Your daily schedule might include family Bingo, Kids Club beach party, or a darn good magic show. Teens have their own cybercafe and activities, set up by energetic coordinators.
FDR also offers two complimentary outings: a shopping trip to Ocho Rios, and an exciting climb up the Dunn's River Waterfall. Non-hikers can watch from a lookout, while kids climb with their nanny in a supervised group.
Contact FDR toll-free in the US at 888/FDR-KIDS or 876/617-2512. Watch the website for promotions including the annual Bring Your Own Grandparents deal. (Grandparents stay free with their family; family is automatically upgraded to a two-bedroom suite. Dates for the 2008 promotion are Jan. 4th-Feb. 14th).
Top Points for Grandparents:
- Vacation nanny, always ready to help
- Lounge chairs under shady trees on the beach
- Nature walk, aquacize, tennis lessons
- Annual Bring Your Own Grandparent promotion
- Seaside Massage Room in a beautiful spot
- Tie-dye T-shirt souvenir, done by kids in the Kids' Club
- All restaurants are ground-level
No matter where you stay in Jamaica, if you want to explore outside your resort, try Countrystyle customized guided tours. From FDR, take a Blue Mountain eco-adventure in the rainforest. Outings can be arranged from all resorts, and feature Jamaican lunch and chance to meet local people. Prices start at $40/adult, $20/child, plus transportation. Call 876/962-7758 for information and reservations.
