Name one vacation spot that can really satisfy the whole family--and I do mean the whole family: kids, parents and grandparents. Do not count Disney World (assuming you've already been). When my in-laws announced that they wanted to treat my husband, three-year-old daughter and me to a mini-vacation ("We want to do this for you while we're still young enough to enjoy it," said my mother-in-law Maxine, 59; "Who knows how many good years we have left?" asked my father-in-law Lee, 60), we were stumped for a spot that would, indeed, be fun for everyone and her/his mother.

With the help of a travel agent, Maxine found Atlantis, a seaside resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas and a short three-hour trip from New York City. The agent pitched the place's reputation as child-friendly (day camp, baby-sitting, kids' pool, water rides), yet sophisticated (French restaurants, massive casino, nightclubs). We all agreed that, considering the accommodations and amenities, we couldn't go wrong. Max proceeded to make reservations for four days and nights in paradise.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.