We've compiled the following information to assist you with the planning of your family vacation. All information below is accurate to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change without notice. We have suggested several services that we do not operate and cannot be responsible for.
Kids Windsurfing Kids Equipment: Vela Margarita has custom Kids Windsurf Equipment: Neil PrydeKids rigs... Sails = 1.0, 1.5, 1.9, with kids booms and masts. Typically we use standard transition boards for the kids. Ages 9 yr. old and up are welcome.
Kids Lessons: Private 1/2 hr.$20.00 / Group prices available.
Sailing Conditions: Wonderfully warm, shallow water (shallows extending approx. 200 - 300 yards, depths ranging from 2 ft to 5 ft). The combination of the side-shore winds and the non-intimidating water conditions (soft, sandy launch with no shore-break) make Margarita one of the best learning destinations. We recommend the summer months for families, lighter winds during this time of year make it much more fun and user friendly for the kids. Kids should sail in the morning as the winds build in the afternoon. Stronger winds during the winter months make it more difficult for the smaller, lighter weight sailors (kids), although mornings may be less windy and sailable for the youngsters.
Child Care: The Vela Margarita and your hotel can assist you in arranging babysitting services. Current rates are as follows:
1 Child – 3-4 hours - $25.00
1 Child – 4-6 hours - $35.00
2 Children – 3-4 hours - $35.00
2 Children – 4-6 hours - $45.00
Babysitter in the evening $10.00 per hour (1 or 2 children)
These rates are subject to change.
Family Activities The Vela Margarita Staff, the Chorlymar Travel agency located on the main street in El Yaque and the reception of your hotel would be more than happy to assist you in arranging other activities or excursions for your family. Below are a few examples of the activities offered on Margarita:
- Biking
- Rollerblading
- kayaking
- fishing
- guided island tours
- bird watching
- hiking in el yaque
- horseback riding
- snorkeling & scuba diving
- Museums, castles and fort tours
Suggestions for Accommodations
Beach Hotel - is where the family can "REALY" stay together, located above the Vela Center, directly on the beach. Hotel, beach, shade, restaurant and equipment all within steps of one another. The hotel features 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes. (Standard rooms and new suites are also offered). Cribs are available at no extra cost. Children ages 2-12 are free except for a small charge for breakfast. Conveniently located across the street is a store stocked with drinks, water, snacks, treats, film, sunscreen and more as well as a new pizzaria.
Casa Rita - just a 5-minute walk up the hill from the beach, the Casa Rita offers hotel rooms with 1 queen sized bed, 2 twin beds, or 1 queen and 1 twin. Great for singles or couples travelling with infants. Cribs are available at no extra charge and children ages 2-12 are free except for a small charge for breakfast. All rooms have a refrigerator and balcony. Casa Rita is a very quiet hotel with a very relaxed atmosphere.
Travel Advisory - For U.S. and Canadian citizens - regardless of age a current passport is required and must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled departure date. If you have further questions, please contact the Venezuelan Embassy in Washington, DC at 202-342-2214 or a Venezuelan consulate in New York, Miami, Chicago, New Orleans, Boston, Houston, or San Francisco.
Health Considerations -Don't drink the tap water--stick with the readily available bottled water. It is also recommended to use bottled water for brushing your teeth. No health certificates are currently required for travelers from the US and Canada. Just as a precaution, you may want to check with your physician or the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) for the latest traveler updates before your trip. Their hotline is available 24 hours a day at 404-332-4559 or on the Worldwide Web at http://www.cdc.gov.
Medical Facilities - For quick medical attention there is a Red Cross unit within a 15 minute drive of El Yaque and there are a number of local German doctors who do house calls. In the city of La Asuncion there is a modern medical center called Nueva Esparta where most of the doctors speak English.
Be Aware - The tropical sun is hot, hot, hot! The constant use of a waterproof sunscreen, especially on children, is strongly recommended.
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