I once heard that the key to a good family vacation is the 72-hour rule. The rule is simply this, every 72 hours you must have at least one hour of separation from each other, and sleep does not count. I think this rule is especially true when taking a multi-generational vacation. No matter how much you love them, grandparents need a break from the grandkids, parents need a break from, well, let’s be honest, parents need a break from everyone!
Luckily, the Gaylord Palms Resort provides many opportunities for some separation time. I will call them the Three R’s – Restaurants, Recreation and Relaxation.
Restaurants – There are a variety of dining options to fit every travelers mood from a 24-hour coffee bar, known as Java Coast, that serves pastries, pre-made sandwiches and other grab and go items, to a buffet restaurant, Villa de Flora, and several theme restaurants serving sushi, seafood and steak.
I often observed people enjoying a snack or morning coffee, catching up with the outside world on their laptops while sitting outside Java Coast. My young travelers were thrilled with the ice cream store featuring Haagen-Dazs ice cream, frozen treats and smoothies. The adult travelers of our group were thrilled with the bar areas adjacent to each of the restaurants, from the relaxing spots outside Old Hickory Steakhouse and Sora Sushi Bar to the more lively spot, Sunset Sam’s Bar featuring live music and the thrill of Key West aboard a sailboat.
Recreation – Two pools offered at the Gaylord allowed for adults to seek refuge from the family by heading to the adult only pool, while the younger swimmers enjoyed the zero-entry pool, splash zone and incredibly fun octopus water slide.
For those guests aged 16 and up wanting to escape through exercise or burn off a few calories from the above restaurant destinations, a fitness room providing weights, weight-machines, a stretching area and treadmills. There was the added bonus of an on-site personal trainer available by appointment to offer any additional pointers.
A game room can provide hours of entertainment for young travelers, or at least until their quarters run out. For a little outside fun, challenge each other to a little sand volleyball or have Grandpa teach the rest of the gang the tricks of Bocce or Croquet on the two play areas. Dad will be thrilled with the 9-hole putting course, and ladies, shopping is considered a recreation isn’t it? Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the indoor atrium will provide an excellent walking course with many interesting stops along the way.
Relaxation – What says relaxation better than a spa? The Relâche Spa is available for guests to schedule such pampering treatments as a Gentlemen’s Hot Towel Facial, Everglades Stone Massage, a Sea Mist Manicure or Walking on Sunshine Pedicure to name a very few. There is even a selection of Maternity Services and treatments for the youngest guests in a Princess Manicure or Pedicure.
The beds are so comfortable and inviting that even a little afternoon nap is a total indulgence. The trails leading through the atrium provide benches and areas to watch the Koi and other fish swimming by as well as spots for quiet reflection.
My quiet separation time came each morning as I would awaken before the rest of the group, brew up a cup of in room coffee and sit on the balcony overlooking the atrium watching things come to life and contemplate the day ahead.
By using the three R’s to follow the 72-hour rule, all the members of your traveling family will have a great vacation.
Top left mage courtesy of Gaylord Palms Resort.
Blogger Malise Terrell will visit Kissimmee next week! Want to share your Kissimmee story? 
