Sol Melia - background :
Sol Melia -- based in Spain -- claims to be the "largest resort chain in the world"; its brands include Melia, Sol Hotels, Paradisus Resorts, and some Hard Rock Hotels.
What's special about Sol Melia for families:
- web site highlights Family properties worldwide
- kids' discounts from 10% to 100%
- kids' clubs range from Club 4, for zero to 4 years old; Mini Club, for 5 to 12; Club 8 for 5 to 8; Club 13 for 9 to 13; Club 17 for teens. (Not all properties offer all these choices, and some clubs may be seasonal)
- Club 17 has activities such as horse riding, adventure sports, biking, parties, outdoors games and sports
- In Mexico, the Melia Puerta Vallarta has a Club 17, as does Meliá Azul Ixtapa; both also have Club 4 for babies and preschoolers. Check that these are offered during your stay.
- Sol Flintstones Hotels have special features, such as themed fun park. There are five properties so far, in Spain; check link for updates
All-inclusive:
Not all Sol Melia properties are all-inclusive, but you can find many all-inclusives in Mexico and the Caribbean - check list at the Sol Melia site.
"All-inclusive" includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks, water sports (except motor sports and diving), other sports, baby or mini clubs, and more.
Specials and Deals:
- the Specials and Offers page at the Sol Melia site always has a list of offers at individual properties
- Weekend Wednesdays: every week, a list of posted with last-minute offers for the coming weekend
- Free nights in Europe: 2 nights for the price of 1, at many properties; book by February 28 2005.
- Lowest Online Rate Guarantee: find a better rate online and it will be matched, plus a 10% discount
- Melia Azul Ixtapa Beach Resort: kids 6 and under stay and eat free -- see Apple Vacations site
Find out more :
- visit the Sol Melia site
- check visitors' comments for individual properties, at Trip Advisor

