You either love it or hate it. Pokémon Go –the latest craze in mobile gaming – is a location-based augmented reality game. Players can capture, battle and train virtual creatures as they wander along with a gps-enabled device. It has many people exploring their own backyard as they go on the hunt for Pokémon, but it can also mean catching these crazy creatures while you travel.

There are pros and cons to the craze. The last thing any parent wants is their child (or spouse!) wandering an incredible location with their nose in their phone, but those who love it say when used appropriately it gets kids moving and introduces them to new spots as they go. Where do you stand?  

There’s no question that hotels and destinations have jumped on board. These spots are more than happy to help you take your Pokémon hunting on the road!

Pokémon-Inspired Travel Deals

Pokémon-Inspired Travel Deals

Pokémon in Toronto

These little guys are everywhere in Toronto! And now there is a new Pokémon feature on the kids-first website Yo-Toronto.com, which was launched in June by Tourism Toronto.

If you haven’t yet checked out this site for kids, it is designed to entertain young visitors to Toronto/ There are games, activities, videos, fun facts and a colourful map. Kids can explore over 20 Toronto landmarks and attractions so they can help shape their family trip.

The website now features the Top 5 PokéStops in Toronto so kids playing this mobile game can plan their visit around catching creatures.

Visit the site to play.

‘Poke Around Baltimore’

The Hampton Inn & Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor is located close to many tourist sites, making it an ideal place to rest when not out there looking for new Pokestops.

This package encourages you to walk around the city on your hunt – it includes a walking map of the city, a special Trainer Grab Bag, stocked with your essentials for the day. The front desk staff is also there to help you plan your routes.

Packages start at $139 per night.

Learn more.

Catch Pokémon Down Under

Zicasso has created a Pokémon-inspired family tour of Australia and New Zealand. It encourages kids to guide the family to specific landmarks in Australia and New Zealand in search of Pokémon. You and the kids will appreciate the guidance of an expert tour guide, who will help you learn about the famous landmarks and destinations, including the Sydney Opera House and Milford Sound. You’ll also receive inside tips on where to catch particular types of Pokémon from locals. The customizable private tour starts at $2,499 USD per person based on double occupancy stays at premier family-friend hotels for 7-days. Find out more about this and the 14-day itinerary traveling to both countries.

As an added bonus, those who book by October 1, 2016 will receive a free portable mobile hotspot by Zicasso!

Learn more.

And when you are ready for a break …

Taking a PokéBreak in Northeast Florida’s Amelia Island

When you are ready for a PokéBreak, head to Northeast Florida’s Amelia Island. Once you shut off your screen, you’ll find limitless outdoor experiences along miles of beautiful beach, trails and waterways. While Pokémon can be found there too, these summer discounts are meant to encourage you to take long breaks away from the game to enjoy creating memories before the kids head back to school.

Among the packages on offer for a PokéBreak weekend August 5-7:

  • The Amelia Island Williams House is offering a 15% discount on a two-night stay August 5-7. Mention PokéBreak when making your reservation;
  • The Fairbanks House PokéBreak for Two package includes daily breakfast, evening beverages and hors d’oeuvres, complimentary use of bikes, pool and beach equipment and your choice of a private downtown carriage tour for two, or two tickets aboard Amelia River Cruises. Use the code PokéBreak when booking two or more nights August 5-7;
  • The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort is offering 10% off Nature Center Tours (includes Kayak, Paddleboarding, Naturalist Segway and Birds of Amelia tours). Mention PokéBreak.

Learn more.

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