Where to Find Summer Family Travel Deals

Traveling with the kids can be fun, but it can be hard to get a good night’s sleep when everyone piles into two queen beds. With my kids, we try to find a way for everyone to have a comfortable place to sleep, but booking suites can be an expensive proposition. And even with the extra space, parents will be tip-toeing through the room to get to the bathroom.

I’ve found through the years that side-by-side connecting rooms are not only a comfortable sleep option, but a great way to make travel as a family easier for the entire brood. With two bathrooms, a door to close between us after the kids go to sleep, and easy access to the hallway — a trip with the kids can turn into more of a relaxing vacation.

So, how can you pull it off without breaking the bank? You may think that two hotel rooms double the price of the bill, but not always. Several hotel companies offer family packages to accommodate adults traveling with kids. At many Hyatt locations, my family has taken advantage of their family plan. The offer includes a connecting room at 50% off, free breakfast for everyone, and  even a spa discount. We’ve stayed at two Hyatt hotels in San Francisco and have also taken short summer beach trips to Huntington Beach, CA, but the most beautiful Hyatt I have ever stayed at was in Kyoto, Japan. Sign me up for family plan Kyoto — I can’t wait to take my kids there!

Two of the top luxury hotels in America are featuring an incredible summer family deals as well right now:

The Ojai Valley Inn in Ojai, California is offering a complimentary room for kids. The package is available Sunday through Thursday nights though September 2, 2010. Nestled in a lush valley near Santa Barbara, the Ojai Valley Inn is by far one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. For kids, it’s a dream: swimming pools, tennis, a kids club, bike rentals, art classes, geo-caching, and golf lessons make a visit to Ojai perfect for families. With the quaint town of Ojai a short walk or bike ride away, there are many ways to enjoy this small-town getaway.

On the opposite coast, The Surrey in New York’s Upper East Side is also offering a complimentary connecting room for kids through September 2, 2010. Taking advantage of this family package gets you into one of the most elegant boutique hotels in New York City — where the staff is warm and friendly…perfect for families! Located one block from Central Park in a quiet tree-lined neighborhood, The Surrey is near the Whitney Museum, The Met and a quick bus trip down 5th Avenue to many famed New York attractions.

Whether you are looking for posh getaway or a bargain family vacation, check for family plans and specials this summer. There are lots to be found and you just may find that traveling with kids can be a little less stressful and more relaxed.

Now — how to find time to go the the spa, any ideas?