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Our Nashville experts have bundled some of the most popular attractions and events together in convenient one-stop-shop deals. Customize a trip the way you want it by adding your choice of lodging and other options to create your own unique Music City experience.

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Customize a trip the way you want it by adding your choice of hotel and other options to create your own unique Music City experience.

Customize your experience in Nashville with a Vacation Package that was built with you in mind.

Music City your way! Experience Nashville attractions for the best value with the digital Total Access Pass. Choose from a variety of attractions and tours to customize your own Music City trip! Already booked accommodations and need the Total Access Pass? You can buy it here .

Score big with the Tennessee Titans Package and combine Tennessee Titans tickets with lodging of your choice. This package includes admission to the game of your choice and a minimum of 1-night stay at a participating lodging option.

Just looking to attend a game? Get Tennessee Titans Tickets .

Enjoy all the fun and flexibility this Build Your Own Nashville Getaway Package has to offer! When you are ready to visit, customize your own experience and visit Music City.

Music City experts have curated some of the best experiences in one convenient shop where you can choose your favorites to customize your trip. Attractions, events, history, music, and more… there’s a vacation package for everyone.

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The possibilities for your Music City vacation are endless when you create and purchase a custom Vacation Package! Choose from great starter ideas or create your own vacations as you add activities and lodging. There are plenty of vacation packages in Nashville to choose from, allowing you and your loved ones to have the getaway of your dreams. This area of Tennessee is filled with attraction options, each of them with their own draws. For family adventures, visitors can travel to fun attraction options like Madame Tussauds famous Wax Museum or the Nashville Zoo . Play a round or two at a mini golf course or enjoy a booking on the General Jackson for some entertaining live music and plenty of beautiful Cumberland River views.

Country music fans are also sure to delight in the wonders of Nashville! Known as the birthplace of the sound, Nashville TN is home to several museum displays, each dedicated to giving detail about country music's history. Visit the Johnny Cash Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , or the historic Music Row. Top it all off with live music at the historic Ryman Auditorium or the Grand Ole Opry ! If you are wanting to leave the kiddos at home and escape for a night on the town, Nashville is also home to plenty of great romantic getaway options. Travelers can visit a famous honky tonk for some drinks or grab a ticket on a trolley tour to see the city and Nashville's skyline.

No matter which sort of vacation you choose, your time in Nashville is certain to be a great one. Of course, visitors can also combine all of their Nashville vacation packages with a hotel booking. Choose the best Nashville hotel with all of your beloved amenities, whether you want a free breakfast or an indoor pool. A vacation rental also allows the option to stay in whatever part of the city you'd like to. Take a luxurious resort adventure in downtown Nashville or enjoy the bustling shops and fun in East Nashville. No matter where you stay, or how you play, you'll create new memories along the way!  

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Nashville and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $366; Family vacation $371; Romantic vacation $619; Luxury vacation $603; Budget vacation $301.

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Visit Nashville: America's Music City.

Experience more and spend less with Vacations by Marriott Bonvoy.

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There are plenty of things to do in Nashville, so start by exploring the city's vibrant music scene. Visit the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame to dive into the history of country music. Don't miss the live music performances at the Honky Tonk bars on Broadway, where you can experience Nashville's famous nightlife.

If you're a history buff, take a tour of the Belle Meade Plantation or the Andrew Jackson Hermitage. For outdoor activities, head to Centennial Park to see the replica of the Parthenon or go hiking at Radnor Lake State Park.

Foodies will love Nashville for its delicious Southern cuisine. Try hot chicken at Hattie B's or Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, and don't forget to indulge in some Tennessee whiskey at one of the local distilleries.

Finally, take a stroll through the colorful murals in the Gulch neighborhood and visit the trendy shops and eateries. With so much to offer, Nashville is a city that has something for everyone to enjoy.

The best time to visit Nashville is in the spring (April and May) or in the fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is mild, and the city comes alive with outdoor festivals, concerts, and events. The springtime in Nashville brings blooming flowers, lush greenery, and perfect temperatures for exploring the city's parks and outdoor attractions. In the fall, visitors can enjoy the beautiful foliage, outdoor activities, and the famous Nashville Oktoberfest.

Both spring and fall also offer fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. However, if you're a music lover and want to experience the bustling nightlife and vibrant music scene, then summer might be the best time to visit Nashville. The city hosts numerous music festivals, outdoor concerts, and events during the summer months.

While winter in Nashville can be chilly, it also brings holiday festivities and seasonal events, making it a charming time to visit for those who don't mind the colder weather. Ultimately, the best time to visit Nashville depends on your interests and preferences, but the spring and fall seasons generally offer the most enjoyable weather and a wide range of activities to enjoy.

The Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum is a must-visit attraction for music enthusiasts. It showcases the history and legends of country music through fascinating exhibits, recordings, and memorabilia.

Visitors can explore the origins of country music, its evolution, and its impact on American culture. The museum features interactive displays, rare instruments, stage costumes, and personal items belonging to country music icons.

The Hall of Fame is a place where fans can pay tribute to the greatest artists and celebrate the genre's rich heritage. The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and live performances, making it a hub for music education and entertainment.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum hosts special events and temporary displays, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for repeat visitors. With its prime location in downtown Nashville, the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum is a gateway to exploring the city's vibrant music scene.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the genre, the museum promises an immersive and enlightening journey through the heart and soul of country music.

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Experience the sounds of Music City when Lower Broadway comes alive at night. Country music fans will find the tunes around every corner, and boots may just be a fashion requirement. 

Nashville’s popularity has spread beyond just country music fans – it’s now seen as a foodie heaven, a fun place for kids and a great getaway for groups.

The former home of the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium continues to host live country music acts today, but also offers a behind-the-scenes “multidimensional experience” tour of the legendary music venue.

• Lower Broadway Slide 1 of 3: Experience the sounds of Music City when Lower Broadway comes alive at night. Country music fans will find the tunes around every corner, and boots may just be a fashion requirement. 
• Weekend Getaway Slide 2 of 3: Nashville’s popularity has spread beyond just country music fans – it’s now seen as a foodie heaven, a fun place for kids and a great getaway for groups.
• Ryman Auditorium Slide 3 of 3: The former home of the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium continues to host live country music acts today, but also offers a behind-the-scenes “multidimensional experience” tour of the legendary music venue.

The Country Music Hall of Fame showcases legendary country music and the artists who brought it to life — past and present. The exhibit offers hearty Southern dining options, as well as retail stores where you can browse for trinkets, clothing, books and music. Visit the Ryman Auditorium for a backstage tour, and lay down your own track in the recording studio.

Tour the mansion and grounds of Belle Meade Plantation, or stroll the serene Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art. Take the family to the Nashville Zoo at Grasmere, catch a show at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, or take a picture with the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens.

Delta Vacations vacation packages include round-trip airfare aboard Delta Air Lines® to Nashville International Airport (BNA).  For the flexibility and convenience to travel when and where you want, add a car rental to your package.

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In the U.S., we offer the National Premium All-Inclusive Package. All insurance, taxes and surcharges are included. You have your choice of vehicles; up to five additional drivers are included at no extra charge; and the primary driver may earn up to 500 bonus miles per rental, plus an additional 200 bonus miles per rental day, through the SkyMiles ®  Program. †

Alamo ®  Rent A Car, Enterprise ®  Rent-A-Car and National ®  Car Rental

Make the most of your vacation by exploring the U.S. with a rental car from Alamo, Enterprise or National. See the sights, take the family out to dinner, and explore all this fabulous destination has to offer with the freedom of a rental car. Plus, the primary driver may earn up to 500 bonus miles per rental and an additional 200 bonus miles per rental day, through the SkyMiles ®  Program in the U.S. and Canada. †

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†Delta SkyMiles Membership number must be provided during pick up at the rental counter. The car must be rented in Member's name to earn mileage. Only one SkyMiles Member per car rental will be credited with miles. Offer valid for rentals picked up at participating Alamo or National Car Rental locations in the United States and Canada. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks after completed qualifying rental for miles to be posted to your account. Bonus miles not available with Enterprise car rentals worldwide and not available with Alamo or National rentals in the Caribbean and Mexico.

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Nashville, Tennessee

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Welcome to Nashville, Music City U.S.A.

Home to country music legends, prestigious Vanderbilt University, and the Tennessee Titans football team, Nashville has something special for everyone. Visitors flock to the historic "Grand Ole Opry" stage or local honky-tonks to listen to up-and-coming musicians while dining on hot chicken, a local favorite. Whether you are visiting Nashville for the music, the expansive academic community, historic battlefields, or the collection of museums, this picturesque city will leave a lasting impression for years to come.

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Kimpton AERTSON HOTEL

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2021 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, US

Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown Capitol View

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530 11th Avenue North, Nashville, TENNESSEE, 37203, US

Hilton Nashville Downtown

121 fourth avenue south, nashville, tennessee, 37201, us.

Holiday Inn Express NASHVILLE DOWNTOWN - BROADWAY

920 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, US

Holiday Inn & Suites NASHVILLE DOWNTOWN - BROADWAY

415 4th Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37201, US

Hotel Indigo NASHVILLE - THE COUNTRYPOLITAN

315 Union Street, Nashville, TN, 37201, US

The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

130 2nd avenue north, franklin, tennessee, 37064, us.

Thompson Nashville By Hyatt

401 11th Avenue S, Nashville, TENNESSEE, 37203, UNITED STATES

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From 26th October 2024, Virgin Atlantic will operate daily flights to Dubai.

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 4 direct flights, will operate until the 19th May 2024.

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Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 29th March 2024. From the 2nd April, this service will reduce to Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Our seasonal service will recommence on the 29th October 2024, with flights operating on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 3 direct flights, will operate until the 11th May 2024. Flights will commence from 23 May 2024 - 24th October 2024 on Thursdays and include a short touchdown.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 29th October 2024.

Daily direct flights from London Gatwick to New York with our partner airline, Delta, operates between 10th April and 26th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service with direct flights, will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays until the 30th March 2024.

Our direct service will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the 2nd April 2024.

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Holidays in Nashville

The city that music calls home.

From the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry where Elvis wooed his audiences to the honky tonks and neon lights of Lower Broadway, there’s no better place to explore the musical history of the USA. 

Prices from  £1134pp

Virgin Hotels Nashville

• Boutique hotel in downtown Nashville
• Seasonal rooftop pool, with live music in the evening and bar
• The Commons Club with cocktails, beers and wines
• 24-hour fitness centre

Plus, exclusive to Virgin Atlantic Holidays: 

Resort fee waived, saving $25 plus tax per night., valid for all travel dates, for bookings made after 18 dec '23., more hotels in nashville, essesntial information for nashville.

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To travel to the USA, you will need an  ESTA visa . Please make sure that you have this approved at least 3 days before you head off on holiday.

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Getting around

Nashville is a walker's town, although buses and trams provide an alternative to your feet. For exploring further afield, your hire car is perfect.

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Last Minute Deals from Nashville

All-inclusive vacation packages w/ round-trip air.

Enjoy a vacation on the beach with a last minute getaway from Vacation Express! Find amazing last minute deals from Nashville to your favorite destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico. With a last minute deal, you can easily book your round-trip air from Nashville, accommodations, local representative and hotel taxes for one discounted price. Book an all-inclusive hotel deal and enjoy your meals, unlimited drinks and exciting activities at no extra cost.

It's not too late to book your summer beach vacation to a tropical destination! Find featured deals with pricing below, and click here for a full list of hotel offers to make this a summer to remember!

CANCUN  ▪  RIVIERA MAYA  ▪  PUNTA CANA  ▪  JAMAICA  ▪  COZUMEL LOS CABOS  ▪  PUERTO VALLARTA -->

Riviera Maya

BlueBay Grand Esmeralda

• Up to 35% Off

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES WITH ROUND-TRIP FLIGHTS

3 Nights From:

$704*: Now-8/31

Punta Cana Princess All Suites Resort

• 25% Off Adults Only Deal!

$769*: Now-8/31

Secrets Aura Cozumel

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• Up to $400 in Resort Coupons ††

$799*: Now-8/31

Wyndham Alltra Cancun

• Up to 20% Off!

$888*: Now-8/31

Riu Palace Aquarelle

• $654 in Resort Coupons ††

$1209*: Now-8/31

Traveling within three days? Our Travel Advisors can make it happen! Call 1-800-309-4717 to book. †† Restrictions apply. Call for details. *$704 price is based on travel from Nashville to BlueBay Grand Esmeralda for 3 nights on August 17. Advertised prices available for bookings made electronically through your travel agent or on vacationexpress.com; small service fee of $10 applies when booking through Vacation Express Call Center. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. For full terms and conditions, hotel information and description of all services, please refer to vacationexpress.com or call for details. Some upgrades are subject to availability upon check-in. Packages above are limited and subject to change without prior notice and are based on travel on coach/economy air with Spirit Airlines, American Airlines or other U.S. certified carriers. Airfares are per person, reflect lowest available airfare at time of printing, are subject to change and are based upon availability of class of service. Baggage charges and allowances vary by carrier and can change frequently. Most major carriers are charging a fee for checked baggage. Some airlines, including Spirit Airlines, are charging a fee for all checked and carry-on baggage. Clients must check their respective airline for the most current baggage information. Some hotels in the Cancun, Riviera Maya, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel areas of Mexico charge an environment fee of approximately $1.21 per room, per night. Fees are subject to change without notice and are payable at the hotel. Book by 8/23/24. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Registered Florida Seller of Travel no. St 38441. State of California Seller of Travel Certificate of Registration #2107538-40.

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21 best all-inclusive resorts for families

Long days in the sun, laid-back beach time , outdoor adventures and exciting culinary experiences: These are just a few things that make a family vacation one that the entire crew will remember for years to come.

When you vacation at a family-friendly all-inclusive resort , you have more opportunities to welcome those feelings of relaxation and discovery because there's no need to worry about being nickel-and-dimed for every meal or activity — most of those costs are already included in your room rate.

Every resort will offer something a little different — often depending on the location — from varying styles of accommodation (think connecting rooms, villas or cabins) to what the dining options look like and whether or not there is a kids club on the property. One thing they all have in common, though, is that the price you pay covers your room, dining and sometimes even on-site activities. That means you can leave your wallet in your room and just focus on kicking back and relaxing with the entire family, whether it's by a glimmering beach, on a sprawling ranch or nestled into a vast mountain range.

Related: How to travel on a budget: Here are our top tips

How do I choose an all-inclusive resort for my family?

There are hundreds of all-inclusive resorts worldwide, many with high-quality experiences for the whole family that offer a lot of value. So, how do you narrow it down?

When you're trying to choose the best all-inclusive resort for your own family, you'll want to think about the type of experience your family will enjoy. If you're an outdoorsy group, consider properties that offer lots of excursions, whether that's diving and kayaking or zip lining and horseback riding. If you're a food-focused family, you might want to opt for a resort that's known for its incredible dining options or cooking classes.

Another thing to consider is whether the resort has a kids club. Parents often want a little time away from the kids (or vice versa!), and on-site kids clubs can ensure that activities are tailored to different age groups.

Ahead, find our favorite family-friendly all-inclusive resorts to consider booking for an unforgettable vacation.

Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is only 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) along the shores of Juanillo Beach. The resort has 375 oceanfront suites, including swim-up suites for families with children ages 13 and older. Dining options range from local Caribbean specialties to a wellness-focused restaurant with smoothies and vegan offerings and 24-hour room service for a late-night bite.

The resort's water park has winding waterslides for older kids and adults, a splash area with pint-size slides for the littles plus a lazy river the whole family can enjoy together. Parents who want to retreat to a private cabana for the afternoon can drop the kids off at the kids club (complete with an indoor treehouse). There's also a teen club for guests ages 13-17.

Pricing for Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana starts at around $453 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night for a family of four.

The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is actually two resorts in one. The Hacienda section welcomes adults and kids, while the Heaven section is for adults only.

Kids ages 4-12 can play the day away at the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club while parents relax and enjoy bottomless cocktails at the adults-only pool or indulge at the full-service spa (for an additional fee). There are also daily activities like treasure hunts, crafts projects and pool games that families can participate in together.

The family can meet back up for a swim at the resort's private beach, enjoy family time at the Rockaway Bay water park and have a meal in one of the resort's eight dining establishments, such as the wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeto.

The ideal room type for families is the two-bedroom deluxe family room with one king and two double beds. It also has a balcony with a hammock, separate minibars for kids and adults and cozy bathrobes for adults and kids (how adorable is that?). True to the brand's rockin' roots, you can have a Crosley turntable or Fender guitar delivered to your room to use during your stay.

Pricing for Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya starts at around $352 per night for a family of four staying in a room with two double beds.

Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers 489 guest rooms in one large building, meaning you are never too far from the resort's exciting amenities. All rooms have a private balcony (or terrace if you are staying on the first floor) and picture windows that let you revel in the gorgeous Caribbean views even when you retreat to your room.

The resort boasts two private beaches — a small beach near the pool complex and an expansive beach area with shaded chairs and daybeds on the sand. The friendly staff will not hesitate to get you involved in the included activities — a befitting perk for outgoing families. Guests can also borrow kayaks and paddleboards to take out on the water.

Hotels with water parks are a key ingredient for successful family vacations, and Hilton Rose Hall's Sugar Mill Falls water park is one of Jamaica's largest. There's a large pool, a lazy river and a multilevel waterslide.

The spa offers indoor and beachside treatments (for an additional fee). There are also separate clubs for kids and teens with age-appropriate games and activities.

Pricing for Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa starts at around $270 or 61,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a family of four. Children under age 3 stay for free.

Giraffe Manor is not your typical all-inclusive resort. The resort has only 12 rooms — no two alike, but all equally charming — split between the Manor House and Garden Manor. Some rooms are situated in such a way that the namesake giraffes may wander up to your window in search of a small snack, but there are ample opportunities to interact with all of the giraffes who reside here.

You are likely to encounter a friendly giraffe poking his head in the window as you eat breakfast or strolling up to the terrace as you enjoy your afternoon tea. Don't worry, the hotel provides feeding pellets so they won't come after your meal (feeding pellets are provided in guest rooms with giraffe-feeding access, as well).

Pricing includes accommodations, airport transfers, all meals, most alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and select activities.

Fully inclusive pricing for Giraffe Manor starts at $1,168 per person for adults and $805 for children.

As soon as you pull up to Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya , there's no denying it's a vacation destination designed for kids ... and kids at heart. Included activities range from pajama character breakfasts to live game shows. Dining, kids club access (for kids ages 4-12) and water park admission also come with the cost of your stay.

Brightly decorated rooms are a nod to popular Nickelodeon cartoons "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles." There are daily character meet-and-greets, and, yes, you really can have gallons of green slime dumped over your head (you'll even get a photo to commemorate the experience).

The resort offers fun-filled seasonal events like the Summer of SpongeBob, Nick Jr. Friends Event and holiday celebrations. Another perk kids and parents will love: All rooms have swim-up access to either the main resort pool or your own balcony pool.

Pricing for Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya starts at around $669 per night for a family of four. Certain dates require a three-night minimum stay.

Club Med has probably the most comprehensive lineup of activities and experiences of any all-inclusive brand.

For those with relaxation in mind, Club Med Punta Cana has three outdoor pools, shaded loungers lining the beach and spacious, ocean-facing family suites where you can listen to the waves gently crashing when you need some downtime. The family suites have a sleeping area for parents with a king bed, a separate room for kids with two twin beds and a living area that opens to a furnished terrace.

Restaurants serve international and local cuisines and are convenient to the beach, the lagoon pool and the resort's main bar.

If you prefer an always-on-the-go vacation, you can perfect your acrobatic skills at circus school, head out on the water in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard, or test your skills with a bow and arrow.

While most all-inclusive resorts do not provide complimentary care for infants and toddlers, Club Med's kids clubs are available to kids as young as 4 months of age.

Pricing for Club Med Punta Cana starts at around $500 per night for a family of four. Children age 3 and under are free.

The Sheraton Samui Resort is a budget-friendly resort located directly on Chaweng Noi Beach. Chaweng Noi is quieter and more secluded than other nearby beaches, leaving its wide swaths of soft sand and calm, crystalline waters (don't forget your snorkeling gear) wide open for families looking for a laid-back tropical vacation.

Unlike traditional all-inclusive resorts, you must choose the all-inclusive package to receive all-inclusive benefits. Room-only rates are also available. The base all-inclusive package includes meals, nonalcoholic beverages, activities, a one-hour beachside massage, a cooking class and airport transfers. You can upgrade to packages that include alcoholic beverages and additional spa treatments.

The resort has two pools — one freshwater and one saltwater — where kids can swim while parents lounge on one of the poolside daybeds. There's also a beachfront kids club with toys, games and activities that kids can enjoy while parents visit the spa for a massage or hit the tennis courts for a friendly competition.

All-inclusive room rates for Sheraton Samui Resort start at around $131 per night. Marriott Bonvoy points cannot be redeemed for the all-inclusive package.

Spice Island Beach Resort is an upscale resort on pristine Grand Anse Beach, a 2-mile expanse of fine white sand and cerulean waters. Its location also offers stunning views of Granada's tree-covered mountains in the distance. And with only 64 suites, you may feel like you have the beach (practically) all to yourself.

Each villa-style suite opens to the beach, pool or gardens. Some even have their own private plunge pool and furnished terrace. Spice Island Beach Resort is one of only a handful of AAA Five Diamond-rated properties in Grenada, and you'll experience the luxury that earned such a prestigious designation in all-inclusive offerings like fresh, flavorful cuisine, creative cocktails and activities like cycling, golfing, snorkeling and beachside yoga. An on-site kids club is available for kids ages 3-12.

Pricing for Spice Island Beach Resort starts at around $1,100 per night for a family of four.

Want to switch up your typical family vacation? Look no further than Colorado's C Lazy U Ranch.

This luxury, all-inclusive dude ranch is open year-round, with activities that vary by season. Visit in the summertime, and you can try your hand at archery, fly-fishing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming and more. In the winter, activities shift to cold-weather favorites like skiing, ice skating, sleigh rides and snow tubing. Horseback riding is available all year long.

There are seemingly endless activities that families can enjoy together. However, you may have trouble pulling your kids away from the supervised activities designed just for them. Kids ages 3-17 are split into groups for age-appropriate excursions, including preparing for the weekly "Shodeo" that's held weekly throughout the summer. During the Shodeo, kids have the opportunity to take to the riding ring and show off the skills they've learned during their time at the ranch.

Pricing for C Lazy U Ranch starts at $587 per person, per night for adults and $392 per night for kids.

When you think of Margaritaville, sunny days spent relaxing on the beach immediately come to mind. That's exactly what you'll get at Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye in Belize. This family-friendly tropical retreat has 55 suites, two pools, a beachfront restaurant, two bars and a full-service spa. It's also located along the second-largest coral reef in the world, giving families ample opportunity for underwater exploration.

Related: TPG's guide to the best all-inclusive resorts you can book with points

Suites have one, two or three bedrooms, and many offer views of the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. All suites have private furnished terraces, large living areas and a style that embodies the term "laid-back luxury." Rather than a traditional all-inclusive resort, the Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye offers a " Chef's Package " that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages for an additional fee.

Pricing for Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye starts at $187 per person, per night. The all-inclusive Chef's Package costs $125 per person, per day.

You wouldn't expect the farm-to-table cuisine, countless activities and a fun-filled kids club to be included in the cost of staying in a castle-like Victorian hotel in the middle of New York's Hudson Valley, but that is exactly what you'll get at Mohonk Mountain House. This historic 143-year-old resort offers elegant accommodations with postcard-worthy mountain or lake views.

Included in your stay are three gourmet meals per day, unlimited activities like boating and paddleboarding in the summer and ice skating and tubing in the winter, evening educational lectures and music, access to hiking trails and, in the summer months, supervised kids programming.

Activities vary by season, but you'll be happy to know that when it's too cold to swim in the lake, you can head for the heated indoor pool.

Pricing for Mohonk Mountain House starts at around $830 per night for a family of four. Children ages 3 and under are free.

Open since late 2021, the Hilton Cancun feels modern and fresh. The all-ocean-view resort caters to families with children with a host of family-friendly offerings like two-bedroom suites, an all-you-can-eat ice cream and churro shop, a family pool and water playground, and fun-filled clubs for kids ages 4-12 and teens ages 13-17.

Related: Great for families: A review of the stunning new Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort

The resort has two large beachfront infinity pools, but families will most likely gravitate to the one near the kids club — this is where you'll find the waterslides and splash playground. With five specialty restaurants serving everything from Mexican cuisine to Southeast Asian delicacies and 24-hour room service, you can try something new every day during your stay.

Pricing for Hilton Cancun starts at around $350 or 91,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a family of four.

When you book a vacation at the Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, you'll be whisked away on a scenic seaplane or speedboat ride and taken to your private island retreat.

Spanning the entire island, the resort is designed to blend in with the natural landscape. Of the 120 luxury villas, 60 are on the beach and 60 are overwater bungalows.

The all-inclusive rate includes fitness facilities, nonmotorized water sports, a kids club with indoor and outdoor play spaces and unlimited meals and drinks from the resort's high-end dining outlets. For an additional fee, you can bliss out at the on-site spa, embark on scuba or snorkeling excursions or take to the waters on a Jet Ski.

Pricing for Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa starts at around $600 per night for a family of four.

Beaches Turks & Caicos is a sprawling island resort with five "villages" designed to resemble locales such as the Florida Keys, the Italian Riviera and a charming French village.

Its large size means you'll have access to 21 restaurants, 12 miles of beach, 10 pools, a 45,000-square-foot water park and more. These are situated around the various villages, so you are never too far from your next dip in the pool or a bite to eat.

Older kids will love the surf simulator, splash playground, slides, lazy river and kids-only swim-up bar at the Pirates Island water park. Younger kids will relish the opportunity to meet their favorite "Sesame Street" characters at Camp Sesame.

Pricing for Beaches Turks & Caicos starts at $407 per night for adults and $38 per night for children.

The Westin Reserva Conchal perfectly embodies the "pura vida" way of life, with accommodations and amenities that make you feel at one with nature. The resort's main pool is surrounded by tropical flowers and trees, most rooms have large terraces where you can soak up the sun, and you are likely to make friends with the iguanas, birds and monkeys who call the resort grounds home before you check out.

Families will love the included Westin Kids Club, where kids can participate in indoor and outdoor activities like treasure hunts and nature exploration. There are also family-friendly options at all of the resort's dining locations, including all the ice cream you can eat at the main buffet. Family suites are available that offer more space, close proximity to the pool and kids club, and a family club lounge with snacks, drinks and activities.

Pricing for the Westin Reserva Conchal starts at around $455 or 71,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for a family of four.

With only six villas that sleep from four to 13 guests, Bluefields Bay Villas offer comfort, privacy and an expertly trained staff that can help you bring to life the all-inclusive vacation of your dreams.

Villas boast ocean and island views, private pools, a personal chef and a 24-hour butler to coordinate meals (including beach snacks and cocktail hours) and activities during your stay.

Pricing at this ultra-exclusive resort includes chef-cooked meals served in your villa's dining room, water sports, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat cruises, hiking and more. Child care and complimentary laundry service are also included in the cost of your stay. We can't think of anything better than returning home with a suitcase full of clean laundry.

Pricing for Bluefields Bay Villas starts at around $1,550 per night for a family of four, and a four-night minimum stay is required.

When you stay at Paradisus Playa del Carmen, you'll spend your days splashing in the clear, warm waters of Mexico's Caribbean coast, swimming in the pool (or resting in one of the submerged loungers) and climbing and sliding at the resort's on-site water park.

There is fun to be had outside the water, as well, with a kids club and daily activities like crafts, dance classes and more. You can indulge your carnivorous side at Sal Steak Cave or take your pick of global cuisines at the Naos buffet, all included in the cost of your stay.

If you choose to splurge and upgrade to the Nikte package, you'll receive a premium suite, access to a VIP pool and beach area, concierge service and priority dining and activity reservations.

Pricing for Paradisus Playa del Carmen starts at around $290 per night for a family of four on a standard package or $420 per night with the upgraded Nikte package.

At Paradisus Grand Cana (formerly Falcon's Resort by Melia), guests have access to a shopping, dining and entertainment district as well as the Caribbean's first true theme park, Katmandu Park.

It's easy to find fantastic water parks in the Caribbean, but you won't find funhouses, virtual roller coasters or 4D laster-shooting games unless you visit Katmandu Park. Theme park admission is included in the cost of your stay, but how often you can visit depends on which package you purchase.

The entertainment extends to the resort itself, where families can experience a pool, a water park, a supervised kids camp and more.

Pricing for Paradisus Grand Cana by Melia starts at around $300 per night for a family of four booking a standard package.

Moon Palace Cancun has more than 2,000 guest rooms divided between two distinct sections: Sunrise and Nizuc. Guests have access to activities, games and dining in both sections.

Families with younger kids may prefer Nizuc, which is where you'll find a pool with a winding waterslide and family suites with connecting bedrooms — one with a king bed and the other with two double beds.

Families traveling with tweens and teens should opt for the Sunrise section for easy access to the surf simulator in the pool and the Wired Lounge with table and arcade games that kids and adults will love. This is where you'll also find the resort's Noir nightclub for drinks and dancing when the sun goes down (while the kids are having the time of their lives at the kids club, open until 10 p.m. daily).

Pricing for Moon Palace Cancun starts at around $438 per night for a family of four, with additional discounts available if you prepay in full.

The Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort is a sprawling resort in a natural setting along a secluded bay that feels like your own private slice of paradise. The resort has 735 rooms and suites with private balconies that offer either ocean or nature views. The resort's family suites give families easy access to the pools, waterslides, splash park and kids club, as well as perks like nightly turndown service, a souvenir beach bag and minifridge items chosen specifically for kids.

With 13 restaurants to choose from, everyone in the family is sure to find something that will please their palate, from traditional Mexican fare to seafood to fresh juices and smoothies. Resort guests can participate in a variety of activities to help them connect and unwind, like yoga, music and art workshops and beach games.

Pricing at Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort starts at around $375 or 84,000 Hilton Honors per night for a family of four.

Even though Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is less than 2 miles from St. Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and less than an hour from popular area attractions like the Pitons and Sulphur Springs, it feels like a secluded island paradise.

It helps that the resort sits on a 1-mile stretch of beach and has eight restaurants, seven bars and five pools to serve only 250 guest rooms. Among the dining options, don't miss the Jerk Treehouse on the beach or the Silk fine dining fusion restaurant for dinner.

The rooms are split between an adults-only Harmony section and a family-centered Splash section. At Splash, families can stay in spacious rooms with private balconies that overlook the waterslides, lazy river and water playground at the water park.

In addition to the typical kids club activities, children have access to an animal sanctuary, nature walks and meet-and-greets with the resort's larger-than-life coconut mascots, Coco and Loco.

Pricing for Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa starts at around $552 per night for a family of four.

Related reading:

• TPG's guide to the best all-inclusive resorts you can book with points
• Best all-inclusive resorts in the world, according to frequent travelers
• Most luxurious all-inclusive resorts around the world

Bridging cultures, enhancing lives: the impact of Peabody’s global outreach

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Aug 20, 2024, 1:16 PM

By Jenna Somers

Scholars at Vanderbilt Peabody College of education and human development travel across oceans and borders to answer pressing questions on improving the human condition, a mission shared by scholars the world over who collaborate in partnership with Peabody.

To strengthen this mission and advance Peabody’s global reach, the Peabody Research Office will expand its strategy to include Peabody Global Initiatives. Peabody Global Initiatives will support faculty to pursue international research and disseminate knowledge, as well as to develop impactful partnerships and networks through a culturally and contextually responsive, collaborative, and data-driven approach.

“Peabody Global Initiatives reflects our commitment to crossing geographical boundaries through research and partnerships in education and human development,” said Ellen Goldring , Patricia and Rodes Hart Professor of Education and Leadership and vice dean of Peabody College. “As we continue to expand on our recent global engagement successes we will further support faculty to collaborate around the world to develop and research policy and practice that strengthens learning and human development.”

Research collaborations led by Peabody faculty members in Vietnam and Colombia and Peabody-hosted visits of Vanderbilt Global Scholars in Residence exemplify the types of international engagements that Peabody Global Initiatives will support, connecting even more Peabody scholars to the world and inviting scholars the world over to Peabody.

Improving Mental Health in Vietnam

Since 2001, Research Professor of Psychology and Human Development  Bahr Weiss has spearheaded programs to develop and improve clinical psychological services and research capacity throughout Vietnam and across broader Southeast Asia, with funding from the National Institutes of Health. Now, he is helping to develop Vietnam’s licensure criteria for clinical psychologists, and as part of his primary efforts at capacity development, he and his team are adapting, implementing, and evaluating a mindfulness-based program for adults with depression within Buddhist pagodas.

Vietnam recently passed a law, scheduled to take effect in about five years, that will require psychologists to become licensed, a policy that comes in response to 10 years of advocacy by Weiss and his colleagues at Vietnam National University and other institutions. Centrally involved in the policy transition, Weiss is consulting with the Vietnamese Ministry of Health on structuring requirements for psychologists and for clinical programs’ training and accreditation. His team is also assessing the quality of psychotherapy services throughout the country.

“We’re investigating the extent to which treatments are evidence-based and implemented following an evidence-based intervention (EBI) structure. We’re also investigating providers’ credentials and how patients find providers, whether through internet searches, word of mouth, or seeing a TV show or advertisement. As part of this project, we will interview providers to assess their understanding of EBI factors and psychotherapy. Moving toward licensure has taken some time, but we are very excited at the prospect of improving mental health services in Vietnam,” Weiss said.

Even as mental health services improve, they are often stigmatized, leaving many people hesitant to seek treatment. However, in preliminary studies, Weiss and his colleagues have found that people are much more comfortable receiving treatment for depression and other mental health problems through non-traditional mental health sites, such as schools or pagodas, as compared to traditional settings, such as hospitals or clinics.

“One interesting issue is that mindfulness-based programs, which are strongly EBI, originated from Buddhist meditation, but have been intentionally developed as non-religious. The goal of mindfulness interventions is to focus one’s attention on the present moment—how your body feels, what thoughts are going through your head—but without judging or evaluating these experiences, seeing them simply as ‘experiences.’ This helps reduce automatic acceptance of negative thoughts and feelings such as those linked to rumination, one underlying causal factor of depression,” Weiss said.

He and his colleagues are piloting the mindfulness-based program with Buddhist monks and community leaders so that they can help treat adults with depression. This approach—commonly known as task-shifting—trains non-professionals to provide a limited, targeted mental health program, which research has shown to be effective for extending mental health services. Importantly, the program should be able to support people with depression who might otherwise not seek mental health services.

Closing the education equity gap in Colombia

More than 11,000 miles from Vietnam, in Bogotá, Colombia, researchers from Vanderbilt University and William & Mary may have found a promising approach to education reform that could help provide high-quality education to students from low-income families. Results from a  study  on the quality of public-private partnership schools in Bogotá—known as schools in administration—demonstrate that students enrolled in these schools scored higher in cognitive and social-emotional skills than students of similar socio-economic and demographic backgrounds who did not enroll. Parents and guardians also reported higher satisfaction with the schools in administration and a lower likelihood of transferring to another school.

Much like charter schools in the United States, schools in administration are privately managed but publicly funded. Colombia seeks to leverage both sectors to more efficiently use public resources to provide a better-quality education to students from low-income backgrounds. To ensure the quality of these schools, the government holds them to the same accountability standards as public schools. Furthermore, non-profit organizations selected by the government to manage these schools must demonstrate prior experience managing high-quality private schools.

“The benefits in cognitive and social-emotional outcomes for students at these schools could potentially shift the approach to public education in Colombia. Based on the positive results for students and the satisfaction of parents, these schools not only deliver a quality education, but they promote community confidence,” said  Felipe Barrera-Osorio , the study’s principal investigator and associate professor of public policy, education, and economics at Vanderbilt  Peabody College.

Students’ cognitive skills—those related to thinking, learning, and problem-solving—were measured by the  Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test . Those with superior scores on the test demonstrated better social understanding, emotional health, and well-being. Parents of students in schools in administration seemed to notice the enhanced quality, as only 10 percent of them indicated a desire to change schools, compared to 37 percent of parents whose children were not enrolled in these schools.

While the findings from the study offer promise for the future of providing cost-effective, quality education to students from low-income families in Colombia, the researchers say it is vital to further study the performance, benefits, and characteristics of schools in administration. Key to the validity of the findings is that the students’ profiles—as determined by socio-economic status and demographic background—were identical, except whether they attended a school in administration.

Learning from Global Scholars in Residence

Just as Peabody scholars like Barrera-Osorio seek to improve education equity, so too, do the Vanderbilt Global Scholars in Residence who visited Peabody College this spring. Serkan Özel , associate professor in the Department of Mathematics and Science Education at Boğaziçi University in Istanbul, Turkey, was hosted by Bethany Rittle-Johnson , professor of psychology. Li Wei , professor of applied linguistics and director and dean of the Institute of Education at University College London, was co-hosted by Huili Hong , professor of the practice of teaching and learning; Noel Enyedy , professor of science education and chair of the  Department of Teaching and Learning and  Melanie Hundley , professor of the practice of teaching and learning and associate chair.

Serkan Özel

Özel collaborates with academic, industry, and non-governmental organizations to leverage innovative STEM education approaches that empower students from disadvantaged communities. He also works with educators on implementing social justice classroom practices to support the educations of ethnically minoritized students in Turkey.

During his visit, Özel presented three lectures on the importance of reaching Turkey’s disadvantaged and marginalized students at an early age through STEM education to expand their career horizons in STEM fields. The  Learning Incubator at Vanderbilt (LIVE)  and the  Nashville Partnership for Educational Equity Research (PEER) hosted two of Özel’s lectures.

In particular, girls and students from low-income and rural areas often struggle to envision futures in STEM careers because they lack exposure to STEM fields and educational resources. Furthermore, the Kurdish and Romani communities face significant educational challenges, often as a result of systemic barriers and cultural biases. Recognizing the importance of inclusive education, Özel offers professional development to teachers so they can introduce STEM concepts to students in a manner that respects and incorporates their identities and cultural backgrounds, thereby fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Rittle-Johnson, an expert in mathematical learning and cognition, also provided guidance to Özel on his multi-national study that uses eye-tracking technology to investigate how pre-K and kindergarten students understand and act on patterning tasks. The project could improve early math education by advancing understanding of how young children learn and develop critical math skills.

“Returning to Vanderbilt University as a Global Scholar was a deeply enriching experience, feeling like a homecoming two years after my sabbatical,” Özel said. “The visit was highlighted by engaging discussions and fruitful collaborations, especially with the invaluable support of Professor Bethany Rittle-Johnson. Her guidance has been crucial, not only for our professional projects but also for personal growth, fostering an environment of continuous learning. This trip reinforced the strength of our partnership and left me optimistic about the future of our collaborative projects and initiatives, further solidifying the foundation for ongoing mutual enrichment.”

Li studies bi- and multilingualism, focusing on the neuroscience of multilingualism, children’s acquisition of multiple languages simultaneously, cognitive and socio-cultural impacts of learning multiple languages, and the decisions of bi- and multilingual families and communities about which language to use with whom and when.

During his visit, Li gave a talk on translanguaging, a philosophy of multilingual communication, which, in practice, allows multilinguals to naturally integrate and flexibly use all their languages and other communication resources to develop and convey meaning.

“Multilinguals not only can speak in multiple named languages, but they also navigate variations in tone and style of verbal and non-verbal communication depending on social contexts. When embraced and fully utilized, their wealth of communicative knowledge benefits all learners,” Li said.

Translanguaging originated as an idea to give multilingual learners more agency over their learning and understanding. It has been applied as a pedagogical approach for educating minoritized and racialized bi- and multilingual learners, in analysis of translingual practices and other forms of communication, and as a practical theory of language and communication with multilinguals that capitalizes on their rich language repertoires.

These varied uses of translanguaging have disrupted thinking on how to educate multilingual learners, creating more space for all learners to collectively use their full range of communication resources and to challenge educational practices that prioritize learning in one language —often in ways that inhibit the education of minoritized and racialized students.

In addition to presenting lectures, Özel and Li met with Peabody leaders and faculty members, including Camilla Benbow , Patricia and Rodes Hart Dean of Education and Human Development, Xiu Cravens , associate dean for international students and affairs, and Ellen Goldring , Patricia and Rodes Hart Professor of Education and Leadership and vice dean, to discuss potential collaborations between their institutions and Peabody College.

Advancing Universal Issues

Whether in Vietnam or Colombia, Turkey or the United Kingdom, or on Peabody’s campus in Nashville, Tennessee, mental health and education equity resonate as universal concerns that require universal inquiry from the best scholars across the globe. But these are not the only issues that inspire the global consciousness, and that is why Vanderbilt’s  Office of Global Engagement awarded ten Peabody faculty members funding to support visiting scholars, conference travel, and research collaborations in 2024 and 2025.

These awards reflect Peabody’s commitment to worldwide collaboration that enhances learning and development in diverse contexts and translates discoveries into more effective practice and policy. In spring and summer 2024, Peabody scholars presented at conferences in Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Thailand with the support of Global Engagement Travel Grants. In fall 2024, two faculty members are collaborating on Global Engagement Research Seed Grants with colleagues in Australia, China, Singapore, and Taiwan. Additionally, Peabody will host Vanderbilt Global Scholars in Residence from France, Israel, and India in spring 2025. Expanding on these efforts, Peabody Global Initiatives will bring together even more of the world’s education and human development scholars to forge new collaborations and to strengthen existing ones, to create new knowledge and to disseminate findings far and wide. Enhancing the human condition depends on it.

This article includes content originally published during the 2023-2024 academic year on December 12 , April 5 , February 14 , May 6 , and May 31 . 

Keep Reading

Peabody College hosts Turkish scholar Serkan Özel through Vanderbilt’s Global Scholars in Residence program

Ten Peabody faculty members awarded global engagement funding

Weiss’ studies support Vietnam’s mental health licensure policy and pagoda-based depression treatment

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• Education and Psychology
• Bethany Rittle-Johnson
• Department of Psychology and Human Development
• Department of Teaching and Learning
• Ellen Goldring
• Felipe Barrera-Osorio
• Melanie Hundley
• Noel Enyedy
• Peabody College
• Peabody College of Education and Human Development
• Peabody global engagement
• Peabody Global Initiatives
• Peabody Reflector
• Peabody Reflector Fall 2024
• Psychology and Human Development