The Spread:

Find the best rate at the: Paradisus Palma Real, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic here.

Opened in December 2005, Paradisus Palma Real lies along the powdery sands of Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana's east coast resort area. It's just 25 minutes from the international airport. A thoroughly luxurious resort set amidst beautifully landscaped tropical gardens, the all-inclusive Palma Real offers upscale service and amenities not typically associated with one-fee-covers-everything properties. The 554 suites are oversized, feature flat-screen TVs, and come with marble bathrooms and Jacuzzi tubs. Guests cool off in three pools, dine at six restaurants, order complimentary meals from the 24-hour room-service menu, and indulge in wraps and massages (at an extra fee) in the spa. There's also gambling at the casino if parents get the chance to leave the kids for a night of entertainment.

Why Families Love It:
At the complimentary Kid's Club for ages five to 12 (open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.), children take tennis and cooking lessons, make crafts, play pool games, and go on treasure hunts. Little ones can splash at two small children's pools. Families as well as 'tweens and teens enjoy such complimentary water sports as sailing, scuba (for certified divers), snorkeling, and kiteboarding. Brush up your land moves with free tango and salsa classes, or get in the zone by pedaling on a complimentary bike or horseback-riding tour.

For more pampering, book a family concierge suite, a roomy 560-square-foot pad with a sitting area and sofa bed. These rooms, part of Paradisus Resorts' new Family Concierge Service (slated to be at all Paradisus family properties by 2007), come with children's amenities such as kid-sized robes and slippers, special bath products, as well as a mini bar filled with milk and juices. Family Concierge guests can swim in a special (read, less crowded) pool and parents receive a walkie-talkie for instant communication, whether it's to corral the troops for dinner at a certain restaurant or an off-property nature tour, there's no need to get off the lounge chair.

Special Events & Activities:
Consider a tour to Manati Park, a nature/amusement park with gardens, parrot shows, sea lions, a dolphin-swimming program, as well as a Taino Village where traditional Taino culture is presented through dance, arts, and crafts (admission: adults, $30; children under 12, $15).