Miami Herald (Sunday)

Grandchild on the way? BOOK A GRANNYMOON

- BY LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES 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? Here’s a way to make sure Grandma is rested and ready to be a part of the little one’s life. Put a grannymoon on the calendar. Plan for yourself or gift a soonto-be grandparen­t.

Here are some ideas to consider. for a lifetime. Board a Windstar sailing ship and explore magical motus (small islets), crystal clear coves and palm-fringed lagoons under turquoise skies. Snorkel, scuba or paddle amid stingrays, sharks, turtles and other fish in water so clear and warm you’ll want to float in it forever. Or discover a world of ancient treasures as you explore legendary Greek islands, including Santorini and Mykonos. Your itinerary may include a visit to Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, known for its ancient ruins and remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades. Wander through the Old Town area for shopping and restaurant­s and to learn about the region through a visit to the Palace of the Grand Masters. The castle-like structure was once captured by the Ottomans, later held by the Italians and now welcomes visitors as a history museum.

Soak up the vitamin D and treat yourself to all that luxury resort JW Marriott Camelback Inn & Spa has to offer. Rich in history and nestled at the base of Paradise Valley’s Mummy Mountain, the Scottsdale, Arizona-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, pueblostyl­e 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 custom grannymoon package.

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

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States