Mariachi Workshop For Kids Launches This Summer At Velas Vallarta In Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Starting this summer, kids visiting Velas Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta can now learn to be a true mariachi. Believed to have originated in Jalisco, the state in which Puerto Vallarta is found, in the 18th century, mariachi music is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. Dressed in traditional mariachi clothing, children from 4-12 years old will be given guitar and maracas lessons from a local musician. The resort’s social media community manager will be available to take pictures of the kids in the mariachi clothing to share with parents. Held every Thursday, this class will last an hour and a half. Velas Vallarta showcases Mexico’s cultural customs with traditional arts & crafts workshops, a weekly Mexican fiesta, Mexican cuisine, and nightly musical performances from Mariachi Vallarta 2000. Led by Romero Figueroa, son of Felipe Romero Huerta, founder of the legendary mariachi “Los Pipianes” (1950 – 1982), the group has performed for 365 days a year for the last 12 years. Velas Vallarta’s extensive Kids’ Club program features an indoor area with cozy spots for arts and crafts, video games and movie entertainment and outdoor fun for the entire family. Activities such as tennis clinics, cooking lessons, magic comedy, bonfires on the beach, Mexican bingo, karaoke and more all included in the resort’s nightly rate. This summer, rates start at $180 per person per night in double occupancy. Kids and teens rates are $36 and $48 respectively per night. All-inclusive rates include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. For reservations or more information, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visithttps://www.velasvallarta.com. About Velas Vallarta Velas Vallarta is an all-inclusive family resort located on 10 oceanfront acres with lush gardens in Puerto Vallarta, walking distance of Marina Vallarta Golf Course, five minutes from Puerto Vallarta airport and just minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Situated on the emerald waters of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta features 345 suites in three eight-story buildings, a high-tech Convention Center that can accommodate up to 700 people, three swimming pools, a rejuvenating spa along with spa cabins seaside, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and an inviting lounge with live music. Nightly theme dinners and local specialties are sure to please even the most discerning palate, and room service is available around the clock. When it comes to daytime and evening entertainment, guests can choose from an exciting and original array of activities and events, from Straw Mosaics, making piñatas and jewelry, yoga on the jetty to Mexican fiestas and casino nights. The Kids' Club also welcomes children under 13 with supervised activities like treasure hunt, face painting, sand castles to crafting with beads, allowing parents to indulge in a choice of exciting or relaxing pursuits like a game of golf, a variety of excursions or pampering at the spa. In addition, the resort was one of the first in the destination with a Green Globe certification, dating back to 2008. Puerto Vallarta features championship golf courses, world-class spas and magnificent beaches, not to mention various sports and activities up in the Sierra Madre Mountains. The possibilities for rest and relaxation, or fun and excitement, are endless. Velas Vallarta was built and is operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side.

Disney Cruise Line Introducing Even More Fun For All Ages With New Spaces and New Experiences Debuting On The Disney Magic In 2018

Exciting new spaces and new experiences designed for guests of all ages are coming to the Disney Magic in March 2018. From family dining in an enchanted kingdom, to a transformed teen club, to a sophisticated café exclusively for adults, the ship’s newest highlights include:

An Enchanting Dining Experience for Families

The Disney Magic embodies the Disney Cruise Line tradition of blending the elegant grace of early 20th century transatlantic ocean liners with contemporary design to create a stylish and spectacular cruise ship. (Matt Stroshane, photographer) (PRNewsfoto/Disney Cruise Line)

At Rapunzel’s Royal Table, families will delight in an all-new dining experience inspired by the beloved story of Disney’s “Tangled.” The first table service restaurant themed to “Tangled” that features characters and live entertainment will transport Disney Magic guests to the kingdom of Corona for an evening of music and interactive fun featuring Rapunzel and the mischievous Snuggly Duckling Thugs.

Guests will step inside a regal ballroom in the royal castle, lit by glowing wish lanterns and adorned with colorful drawings that reflect Rapunzel’s artistic talents. Here, the King and Queen of Corona invite everyone to take part in a festive celebration of Rapunzel’s birthday and the anniversary of her return to the kingdom.

Throughout dinner, guests of all ages will be treated to live entertainment, including spirited singing and dancing led by the maître d’, a merry band of musicians, the mischievous Snuggly Duckling Thugs and of course, Princess Rapunzel herself.

The family fun is complete with themed menus, special activities and a lively parade to cap off the evening in Corona. The charm and enchantment of “Tangled” in Rapunzel’s Royal Table is the perfect pairing to “Tangled: The Musical” – the spellbinding original production that delights guests during each Disney Magic sailing.

Redesigned Retreat Just for Teens

Vibe, the space on the ship reserved for teens ages 14-17, is being transformed into a trendy urban loft environment. At Vibe, teens can enjoy a new coffee and smoothie bar, play video and virtual reality games, and check out other cool activities like a DJ spin-off and movie making. Activities at Vibe are organized and hosted by trained Disney counselors who facilitate the fun and interaction among teen guests. 

Refined Escape Exclusively for Adults

Adults can relax at Cove Café, an adult-exclusive retreat that will be redesigned in a sophisticated tropical style. It’s the perfect place to sip a specialty coffee or tea throughout the day, or indulge in wine or a cocktail and light bites during the evening hours. 

In this serene setting by the Quiet Cove Pool, adult beverage tastings are also available at select times for an additional fee. Just steps away, the adjacent Signals Bar will also be transformed with a similar look.

Elsewhere around the Disney Magic, other enhancement highlights include the addition of Club Disney Junior in Disney’s Oceaneer Club for children and a redesigned Rainforest Room with steam and hydrotherapy in Senses Spa for adults.

The new enhancements debut on Disney Magic starting March 9, 2018, on sailings from Miami, Fla.The four- and five-night Disney Magic sailings from Miami visit Key West, Fla.; Nassau, Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. Beginning on May 14, 2018, the Disney Magic repositions to Europe for the summer season.

These additions are part of an overall commitment by Disney Cruise Line to invest in their ships, helping to deliver incredible family vacation experiences for years to come. While making these enhancements to the Disney Magic, crews perform regularly scheduled and wide-ranging maintenance to keep the fleet in tip-top shape, further demonstrating the unwavering commitment by Disney Cruise Line to continually elevate the guest experience.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent.

SOURCE Disney Cruise Line

Children's Museum Of Manhattan Announces Opening Of "Hello From Japan" Exhibit, January 20th-

Interactive Exhibit Exploring Tokyo’s Vibrant Culture Will Run from Jan. 20, to May 14, 2017    

Back by popular demand, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan’s Hello from Japan! exhibit is returning to the Children’s Museum (212 West 83^rd Street) beginning Jan. 20 through May 14, 2017. The interactive traveling exhibit, which garnered great attention and praise during its 2015 run at the museum, transports families to two distinct areas of Tokyo that exist side by side: one serene and exquisite, the other, too cute for words.

Located in the museum’s Lower Level Gallery, the 1,500-square-foot exhibit invites families to explore an immersive, child-sized Tokyo streetscape and Shinto park. Visitors learn how time-honored Japanese traditions co-exist with the contemporary culture of kawaii-inspired graphics and products, characterized by round figures, vibrant colors and a whimsical, cute aesthetic. 

Based upon the colorful and bustling streets in the modern Harajuku district, Kawaii Central explores contemporary Japanese culture by evoking the friendly feel of Japanese Kawaii, an aesthetic and sensibility which emerged in the 1970s among Japanese schoolchildren and has now permeated cultures worldwide. Families are introduced to Japan’s unique culture through child-friendly characters and graphics. Visitors express their own individuality and simultaneously gain insight into modern Japanese society as they create kawaii outfits, design playful mascots for their families, serve up a seasonal Japanese meal, practice writing Japanese characters, and sign along to Japanese children’s songs in a karaoke booth.

A bridge at the end of the streetscape leads from the contemporary urban setting into a more tranquil Shinto shrine park environment. The park explores the traditional, nature-based practices and beliefs of Shinto, an indigenous Japanese religion. Families learn about the appreciation of diverse and powerful elements of nature. They are also encouraged to appreciate their own local parks, trees and natural elements after they explore the shrine area’s crawl-through forest, make a wish at a large Wishing Tree, get their fortune told and encounter a few of Japan’s kami spirits.

Hello from Japan! was the third in the museum’s Global Cultural Exhibition Series, following exhibits about the cultures of Ancient Greece and China, and preceding an exhibit which explores diversity of Muslim cultures worldwide for a family audience and is currently on

display on the museum’s first floor. The series celebrates the diversity of cultural expression across our interdependent world. An important part of the museum’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of global citizens, the series offers family-friendly, hands-on experiences designed to engage the senses and appeal to a wide variety of learning styles.

“We believe learning about others helps us to learn about ourselves. This is true for both adults and children,” said Andrew Ackerman, the Children’s Museum’s executive director. “An ability to appreciate cultural similarities and differences is more important now than ever. Our Global Cultural Exhibition Series, which includes Hello from Japan!, lets families have fun and make new discoveries together.”

A full range of complementary workshops and programs will occur throughout the exhibit’s run.

Hello from Japan is part of the Freeman Foundation Asian Culture Exhibit Series, funded by The Freeman Foundation and administered by the Association of Children’s Museums.

For more information about the exhibit, please visit www.cmom.org

About Children’s Museum of Manhattan

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan – a citywide resource for children, families and educators – works to ensure children thrive at home, at school and in the community. Based on West 83^rd Street, with over 350,000 visitors annually, the Museum creates hands-on learning environments, programs, and curricula through an alchemy of fun, research and museum science. In addition to its commitment to delight and educate visitors, the Museum offers resources and strategies for parents, caregivers, and educators to help children become lifelong learners. Thousands more New Yorkers also benefit from the Museum’s offering through its outreach programs at schools, Head Start centers, shelters, libraries and hospitals. For more information, please visit www.cmom.org.

These Are The Best Family Restaurants in London

Enjoy a family meal at one of London's kid-friendly restaurants, where the little ones can eat from specially created children's menus, take part in fun activities and visit nearby top attractions.

Whether you're looking to keep them entertained during mealtimes with colouring books, activities and entertainment or well fed with fun and tasty dishes, London's best family restaurants have it covered. 

Café Rouge

The Café Rouge chain offers one of London's best activity packs for kids, including puzzles and stickers with a French theme. Fantastique! Younger children can take their pick from the special kids' menu. There are more than 30 branches of Café Rouge in London, so wherever you are in the capital you're sure to find one nearby.Read More

Masala Zone

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Enjoy a fun, relaxed dinner at Masala Zone Indian restaurants where children can choose dishes from the kids' menu. The Covent Garden branch is great for families as there are lots of things to do for kids in the area, such as watching the street performers in the piazza or going to see a West End musical. Read More

Planet Hollywood

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Mingle with the stars at Planet Hollywood restaurant near the bright lights of Leicester Square. There's plenty to keep kids entertained alongside their burgers and fries, including colouring sets, balloons and movie memorabilia. The kids' menu includes a main dish, dessert and unlimited soda drinks. Read More

Rainforest Café

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Take your children to the Rainforest Café where they'll go wild watching waterfalls, lightning, rain, animals and real tropical fish. Close to the West End's many theatres, shops and attractions such as Ripley's Believe It Or Not! London, this family restaurant offers a two-course kids menu with a drink, and activity packs for a small charge.Read More

Spaghetti House

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Pasta-loving kids will adore the food at Spaghetti House restaurants across London, especially in the Soho, West Endand Oxford Street areas. The kids' menu features Italian dishes such as spaghetti bolognese and pizza with tomato and mozzarella. There's even chocolate pizza for dessert!Read More

Belgo Centraal

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Belgo Centraal is close to all the top attractions in Covent Garden, such as the London Transport Museum and the Apple Store. Although the main menu is Belgian, the kids' menu features a mix of classics such pasta, goujons, and mussels traditionelle for the more adventurous. Read More

Sticky Fingers

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Founded by Bill Wyman, bass player with The Rolling Stones, Sticky Fingers restaurant drips with band memorabilia. The kids' menuincludes family favourites such as BBQ ribs, cheeseburgers as well as vanilla ice cream thrown in for free. There are also plenty of thick shakes to slurp. Read More

Hard Rock Cafe

Rock 'n' roll, sizzling dishes from the Southern US states and classic hamburgers give the Hard Rock Cafe near Hyde Park an authentic American flavour. The rock memorabilia and music just add to the fun. Your kids may not have heard of Pete Townshend or Eric Clapton, but seeing their guitars is sure to inspire some rock 'n' roll ambitions! Read More

All Star Lanes

With several All Star Lanes bowling alleys dotted around London, there's no excuse not to keep children of all ages entertained. Combine a meal with a trip to Westfield Stratford City for shopping and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park for outdoor fun. Look out for the "Eat, drink and bowl" kids' deal for children under 12. Read More

Bubba Gump Shrimp

Give the little ones a taste of America’s Deep South at this Forrest Gump themed restaurant in London Trocadero. Bubba Gump Shrimp serves kids’ favourites such as popcorn shrimp, chicken strips and macaroni cheese as part of its children’s menu; while, for dessert, they can even build their own sundae from delicious sweet treats.Read More

Ed's Easy Diners

Enjoy American-style dining at Ed's Easy Diners, with branches in Mayfair, Soho, London Trocadero and Euston Station. High stools, thick milkshakes and a variety of burgers make these restaurants great hangouts for kids of all ages. Younger children can choose from the Junior Bites menu and enjoy filling in the special activity sheets. Read More

Giraffe

With plenty of healthy options, you can take your kids for a guilt-free meal at Giraffe at outlets across London. Whether porridge, fresh fruit or pancakes for breakfast; or salmon, omelette or nachos for lunch, your kids will love tucking into the fresh fare at this relaxed eatery. Make sure to take advantage of the great value meal deal that includes a main meal and drink.Read More

The Top 10 Best Hotel Chains for Families

Budget-Friendly and Family-Focused Conveniences Offered Nationwide

 Parents magazine today revealed the top 10 Best Hotel Chains For Families, perfect for family road trips, holiday travels or weekend getaways. Parents’ magazine editors and travel experts evaluated 60-plus hotel brands across the country to identify chains offering families great space and comfort, high satisfaction ratings, affordable rates, and entertaining kids’ programs. The full list is available in the November 2015 issue of the magazine and on Parents.com.

According to Parents, the year’s best hotel chains for families include:

Best Budget Chains

1. Residence Inn

With 650+ U.S. locations, the hotel offers extensive in-room amenities and a seasonal “Residence Inn Mix” program, featuring food-truck fare, restaurant pop-in tastings, and a backyard BBQ, depending on the night and location. (Fall rates for a Studio Suite start at $84 per night; residenceinn.marriott.com).

2. Hyatt Place

Perfect for keeping kids healthy on vacation, these properties offer a free breakfast buffet which has expanded in most locations to include more nutritious options, many packed with fruit, veggies, and protein. (Fall rates for a room with two queen beds start at $134 per night; hyattplace.com).

3. SpringHill Suites

Known for its roomy living areas and creative breakfast options, the chain’s special touch lies in a showcase of more than 2,000 pieces of artwork displayed throughout its lobbies. (Fall rates for a suite with two double beds start at $79 per night;marriott.com/springhillsuites).

4. Hilton Garden Inn

The hotel’s redesigned rooms are more family-friendly than ever, providing more counter space, clothes storage, charging stations, and seating. Hate waiting in line? Use the HHonors app to check-in and choose your room from your smartphone – you may decide on a room near the indoor pool, for instance – then swing by the front desk for the key.  (Fall rates for a room with two queen beds start at $129 per night; hiltongardeninn.com).

5. Wingate by Wyndham

With starting rates of less than $100 per night (and free breakfast!) in many areas, you can’t beat the price of a standard room here. The brand also has a unique loyalty program that allows you to redeem some of your points for discounts on your stay. (Fall rates for a room with two double beds start at $129 per night; wingateatlanta.com).

Best Mid-Priced Chains

1.       Embassy Suites Hotel by Hilton

Every room is a suite here, so forget about splurging on an upgrade for more space and privacy. Additional perks include a free nightly snack and drink reception, training for all staff on interacting with kids, and a new program offering baby care essentials at some locations. (Fall rates for a suite with two double beds start at $189 per night; embassysuites.com).

2.       Loews Hotels & Resorts

From receiving early admission to Orlando theme parks so they can beat the crowds to attending “Farm School” at an organic farm to care for local animals and vegetables in San Diego, families take advantage of the coolest partnerships to keep the kids happy. (Fall rates for a room with two double beds start at $249 per night; loewshotels.com).

3.       Omni Hotels & Resorts

Omni has a knack for taking old, historic resorts and restoring them into family meccas with plenty of adventure. Kids will have tons of fun with the free photo book and game-filled backpack they receive at check in. (Fall rates for rooms with two double beds start at $229 per night; omnihotels.com).

4.       Hyatt House

Many locations offer two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites for what you’d pay for a single room at a higher-end chain. Plus, all room types come with a full kitchen and all the tools you need to cook and eat a great meal. (Fall rates for a one-bedroom suite start at $159 per night; hyatthouse.com).

5.       Sheraton Hotels & Resorts

Sheraton offers the same features as its pricier Starwood cousins, Westin and Aloft, like “sweet sleeper” beds and cribs, pools, and an all-inclusive dining program for kids 12 and under. (Fall rates for suites start at $249 per night and a room with two double beds at $189 per night; starwoodhotels.com/sheraton).

About Parents

Parents was founded in 1926 and, along with American Baby, FamilyFun, Parents Latina and Ser Padres, makes up The Meredith Parents Network portfolio of parenthood brands.   Parents is the leading voice for a community of more than 15 million moms who are engaged and inspired by the brand’s trusted content. In turn, these moms enlighten and inspire others by joining ongoing conversations about parenthood via Parents.com as well through Parents’ robust presence on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr.  Parents is dedicated to engaging and inspiring moms with the information they need, wherever they go.