Visit Rotorua: Regal Palms Resort

At the last minute, we decided to overnight in Rotorua, so we could visit as many attractions as we could in the area.

I received a recommendation that the Regal Palms Resort is great for families, and I couldn't agree more!

We were warmly welcomed at check-in with cookies and milk!

We stayed in a Superior Two Bedroom Suite, which included a large living room, full kitchen, dining table, and even a patio!

The water closet was tiny, but functional. The bathroom, however, was huge, with a spa pool as well as a shower. 

There was air conditioning only in the living room, however, but thankfully it did not get very hot in the suite.

The Regal Palms Resort also has a pool, a mini playground, and even a miniature golf area!

The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, DVD rentals, and even bikes for use!

Regal Palms Resort is great for families!

Regal Palms Resort
350 Fenton St, Glenholme
Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
+64 7-350 3232

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A Family Staycation at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani

Nearly three years ago, our family staycationed at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani hotel for the first time.

The 1000-room hotel in the heart of Waikiki is steeped in history, yet provides modern conveniences, and a variety of services and amenities.

Over the Easter weekend, we were fortunate to have been invited back for a quick one-night stay.

Upon check-in, we were greeted with lei, and kids received a fun coloring book.

We stayed in a 2-bedroom suite, which had a large living and dining area, a full kitchen, and two bathrooms.

Although the suite was quite dated, I enjoyed the spaciousness and coziness.

Don the soft robe and slippers and it's easy to unwind!

The suite was also equipped with three televisions, a Keurig coffee maker, and even a washer and dryer!

The large lanai and the pretty views were a huge plus as well.

The kids loved the pool, and I loved that bottled water and fresh fruit were offered to guests.

Get there early to snag a seat under the umbrella, or rent one of the two cabanas, because it can get quite hot.

If you prefer the beach, you're in luck, because the beach is just across the street!

When hunger strikes, you can simply order room service, head down to Splash Bar (open for lunch and dinner), or indulge in the buffets at Pikake Terrace (open for breakfast and dinner).

We were fortunate to dine at Pikake Terrace for both dinner and Easter brunch, and we definitely got our fill of delicious Italian eats at dinner, as well as hearty faves (including a Rainbow Mimosa Bar!) during brunch.  You can read about the dinner here, and the Easter brunch here (note - Pikake Terrace will have a fabulous brunch for Mother's day.  You can find out what's on the menu and get more information here).

A resort charge of $34.55/night includes amenities such as Wi-Fi access, MiFi rental, one-day GoPro Camera rental, two bottles of water, Sea Life Park discounts, keiki discounts at Pikake Terrace, and so much more!

We had a short, but sweet stay at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel!

Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel

120 Kaiulani Ave

Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 922-5811

Mahalo to the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani for hosting our stay.  Gratuity was paid on my own.

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Staycation at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

Lei are presented upon arrival.

A group of friends and I have been taking annual outer island trips together with our families.  This year, we had planned to visit the Big Island, but decided to cancel when we discovered the pool at our hotel would be closed due to renovations.  With 7 kids in our group ranging in ages from 6 to 12, that was the ultimate deal breaker. 

We decided to staycation on Oahu and because I loved my last two experiences at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, I suggested we stay there.  Not only was there a great kama'aina package that included daily breakfast for two and discounted valet fee, but there was also the complimentary children's program at Camp Kohola for ages 5-12 and the complimentary use of the stand-up paddle boards for resort guests at the lagoon.  All this and five star service and accommodations made it impossible to resist. 
     
Since we arrived before check-in, we wasted no time and headed straight for the family pool.  Once our rooms were ready, we were happy to discover we had all received room upgrades and were located on the same floor.  

The ocean front room we stayed in had a king size bed and a pull out sofa.  The children were delighted to find bathrobes just for their use in the closet.  

A super fun amenity for the children: sponges that spell out their names. 

The full marble bathroom had sinks on both sides which was super convenient and made getting ready much quicker. 

The private lanai has an outdoor dining set for two plus a lounge chair so you can enjoy the gorgeous ocean views.

The kids taking a peek.

We had so much fun at the lagoon! 
All the equipment we used was complimentary for resort guests.   

The lagoon is the perfect place for beginners to try out stand-up paddling!

We also enjoyed exploring the other parts of the resort. 

After stopping off at Hokulea for coffee, you can enjoy this beautiful view of the Family Pool and lagoon. 

Or you can play some pool. 

The kids squeezed in some time for arts and crafts (while Mom squeezed in a nap) at the complimentary Camp Kohola.

A beautiful sunset marks the end of a fun filled day at the
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. 


Thank you to the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at
Ko Olina for the complimentary room upgrade!

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