As we mentioned previously, we headed for the Adventures in Travel Expo several days ago, and were pleased to see how many companies and destinations are thinking more about families. Families with older children are being urged to get active together, and those with tots are increasingly being given childcare options so that those more adventurous trips needn’t wait several more years.

Of all the operators we came across, the one that excited us the most was WAC Travel, a luxury adventure company that has designed several breathtaking trips for families. First, their family trips don’t feel like something thrown together just to tie into a trend. All of their trips, family and otherwise, were clearly well thought out, and they’ve already been vetted by the company’s owners and several clients, with the promise of excitement and pampering for all ages traveling.

We also like that their trips cover some vast terrain and climates. Snow bunnies will get a kick out the dog-sledding trip in Vermont, while those with a yen for farther and warmer shores might prefer the Ruins, Rainforest and Reefs package in Honduras.

All of WAC’s itineraries are personalized; they’ve devised a framework for each destination but what you do and don’t include is ultimately up to you. Travel dates are customized too: call today about an itinerary you like and you could be out the door tomorrow. Which reminds us of another thing we love: the prices. No, they’re not cheap, and they are just estimates, but they’re air-inclusive estimates, which gives you a better sense of what your final outlay will be. Drool over their website where a peek at the destinations, accommodations and activities they’ve put together will get you in the mood to start planning your next trip.

Jessamine living room, copyright Bajan Services

This week’s family vacation villa rental, Jessamine, is in Barbados, the Caribbean’s most eastern island. Located on the Platinum Coast, the villa is close to Gibbes Beach and is in a quiet residential cul-de-sac. (more…)

Costa Banderas villa, copyright Casa Bay Villas

The open-air plan and luxurious yet comfortable furnishings of this luxury villa rental have us breathing sighs of contentment - and that’s just from the pictures. If you’re contemplating a family vacation in Mexico, consider Punta Mita. Nestled on the coast of the Bay of Banderas, Punta Mita is approximately 40 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, and is de riguer for those in the know who find Puerto Vallarta to be a bit done. You’ll find a Four Seasons resort in Punta Mita, and several luxury vacation villas and condos for rent, including the one we’re showcasing this week, Costa Banderas. After the jump, more info and pix. (more…)