Here are some great vacation ideas to treat the most special women in our lives – our moms.
By Sonia Esther Soltani
Treat mom to a city break at the Adolphus. (Courtesy Hotel Adolphus)
Moms will always love their children’s art and crafts, especially the ones affectionately created for Mother’s Day, that’s celebrated in the US the second Sunday of May since 1914. But let’s face it, however tenderly they’ll hold on to their new pasta necklace, abstract drawings and decorative items, they’d also love to be treated to a nice vacation. Here are some ideas of relaxing, pampering and indulgent breaks mothers can take with their kids:
Get Pampered at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Arizona
Go on a spa date at the Fairmont Resort in Scottsdale. (Courtesy Fairmont)
Which mom doesn’t fancy to be pampered at a luxurious spa in a wonderful setting? The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Well & Being Spa offers just that — and more. Set in a resort designed in Spanish Colonial style and inspired by an oasis in the Grand Canyon, the spa is a haven of peace and serenity for mothers in need of rejuvenation. The AAA Five-Diamond resort is also a fantastic destination for mothers that play golf with two 18-hole championship golf courses, or for moms who are golf widows. Add gastronomic and kid-friendly dining options, a Trailblazer Family Adventure Center (kids ages 5-12), five pools and family-friendly upscale accommodations; and you have made a woman very happy indeed.
Go on a City Break at The Adolphus Hotel in Texas
For mothers that like urban breaks that involve legendary hotels, culture, shopping and a vibrant nightlife, this downtown Dallas property might just be the ticket. A historic hotel dating back to 1912, The Adolphus Hotel is a 23-stories masterpiece of beaux-arts style whose famous past guests include royalties, rock stars and celebrities — Queen Elizabeth II, U2 and Donald Trump have all stayed there. It’s right on the doorsteps of cultural attractions such as the Dallas Museum of Art, The Sixth Floor Museum, and AT&T Performing Arts Center. And for shopping sprees, the flagship Neiman Marcus is also in the close vicinity. The complimentary sedan transportation within a three-mile radius makes outings much easier for families.
Indulge in Movies and a Feast at the Conrad in Chicago
Watch mom’s favorite movies and treat her to a scrumptious feast at the Conrad. (Courtesy Conrad Hotel)
Fancy taking Mom to the top of the world? Well, the Conrad Chicago’s Terrace Rooftop is as close as it gets with its stunning views over the Windy City and its brilliant Sunday Night Movies event, a Sunday evening dinner and a movie event under the starry sky that runs from May through September . Families that prefer more intimate settings can take advantage of the vast selection of DVDs for in-room movie nights. Mothers that are foodies will enjoy every sip and bite at the stylish Terrace Bar and Terrace Restaurant serving up contemporary American cuisine with an Asian flavor — delicious Maine lobster, ginger cola braised pork belly and tempura burger are some of the rich menu’s highlights. This luxury hotel on the Magnificent Mile is also great for shoppers with its direct access to The Shops at North Bridge, Nordstrom and Michigan Avenue.
Catch up on Sleep and R&R at the Benjamin in New York
Give her a chance to rest and renew in luxury at the Benjamin. (Courtesy The Benjamin)
Ever heard of a mother who doesn’t suffer from sleep deprivation? Neither have we. This elegant Midtown boutique hotel in New York City has devised a program to help parents — and kids — sleep better including a special pillow menu, in-room amenities and inspirational reading with “Sleep for Success” by a sleep expert. Discounted spa and salon treatments (as part of the Rest & Renew package) also contribute to a more relaxed state of mind. As for children, the Winks’ Kidzzz Club (for ages two to 10) is a holistic and fun journey to teach little ones the importance of a good night’s sleep. But since the hotel doesn’t want its guests to spend their time in the Big Apple slumbering either, its mascot Winks the Owl offers them the lowdown on all the exciting family-friendly activities and attractions in the city.
(MORE: Five Idyllic Resorts for the Perfect Mother’s Day Getaway)
Live the Easy Life at Hawks Cay Resort in Florida
Let her live the easy life for a change at Hawks Cay Resort. (Courtesy Hawks Cay)
Mothers looking for a break from their hectic pace of life will fall in love with this secluded Florida Keys resort, located on the island of Duck Key. Here they can enjoy cycling with their kids, and share memorable experiences such as swimming with dolphins and diving into a coral reef. The family-friendly Hawks Cay Resort is home to four villages with different types of accommodations to suit varied needs and budgets. At the top end of the offering are spacious Hawks Cay villas featuring gorgeous sunset views. While the kids are busy with age-appropriate activities (for children ages five to 17), parents can take some well-earned me-time at the Calm Waters Spa, with a couple’s massage, or simply strolling around the beautiful surrounds.
Sonia Esther Soltani contributed this to MiniTime. She’s traveled to over 30 countries and specializes in food, wellbeing and culture.