Travel Bug, Volume 2: All-Inclusive Resorts

When you think All-Inclusive Resort, you probably think romantic honeymoon, boozing it up all day and night, lounging around the pool, trying exciting water sports, and pigging out buffet-style at every meal. That's what I think anyway, and YES PLEASE! I've never done this type of vacation, mainly because it's expensive!! I've always been a budget traveler, I mean, 2 years ago hubby and I did a 1 month long 9-country trip for what most couples would spend on 1 week in Europe! And it kicked A$$!! But, wouldn't it be nice to know exactly what you'll be spending from the get go, and know all the exciting things you can do at no extra charge? I sure think so!

But what about bringing baby along? Sure, we've all seen the Club Med commercials with kids flying on the trapeze and what not, but are these places baby friendly? Did some research, and it seems you can find some pretty decent deals out there, for some gorgeous resorts, with childcare included. Now we're talking! Here are some I found, with my personal ranking (But don't take my word for it! Do your own research!! And if you've been ton one of these or another, please comment below!)

#1 - Holiday Inn Sunspree Montego Bay
This seems to be the winner, money-wise anyway. Children under 12 are free, with free child care from 6 months of age!

Has mini-golf, a casino, 1 big pool and 1 adult-only pool, gym, 5 restaurants, beach and non-motorized water sports. No evening entertainment?

I got a quote of $178 per room per night.

3.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.

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#2 - Franklyn D. Resort, Jamaica
All-inclusive is no joke with this one - even 9am-4pm nanny service is included, with evening service being $4/hour. The nanny can take care of the baby when you want to take advantage of water sports, take a nap, etc. When you want family time, she'll tidy up your suite and stock your fridge! Sweeeeeeet!

Snorkeling, kayaking, tennis, glass bottom boat, biking, beach volleyball, and daily evening entertainment. For an extra fee you can play golf or go on many optional tours to get you exploring Jamaica.

Got a quote for about $240 per room per night.

4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor (Traveler's Choice 2013 winner).

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#3 - Melia Caribe Tropical Resort Punta Cana
This one is in the Dominican Republic and has babysitting for an extra charge, 10 outdoor pools, 8 tennis courts, golf course, a casino, shopping village, movie theater, evening entertainment...

Quoted me $223 per room per night.

4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.

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#4 - Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts
The lower budget off-shoot of the Sandals brand, with rates about 35% lower than their Sandals and Beaches counterparts. One resort in Jamaica and one in Antigua, though these don't seem especially family-oriented. Nothing on the website about babysitting or kids' activities.

I got a quote of about $300 per room per night

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#5 - Club Med
Baby Welcome Program provides baby gear and food, and babysitting (4 months and up) for an extra charge. But, this is like the top of the line in resorts and will cost you upwards of $700 per person per night... ugh....

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#6 - Beaches Resorts
This is the family-friendly off-shoot of the famous Sandals brand. They seem well loved on the blogosphere, and are a bit more budget friendly than some of their competitors. There are 2 resorts in Jamaica and one in Turks and Caicos. They offer "nannies certified in accordance with an accredited U.S. university"... really? Do they offer a Nanny degree? Or maybe something like early childhood education. Maybe... Anyway, the nursery is yours at no extra charge from 9am-6pm, and nanny services after hours for an additional charge.

I got a quote of about $700 per room per night, including $150 in airfare per person. But still, a bit out of our budget!!

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Vacation Kids has info on some more great family-friendly vacation options.