Hi, I'm new (go easy on me! ) on this forum and am needing some advice:

Long story short - as a reward from work, I could choose from several awards (merchandise, travel certificates, etc.). I choose free Ritz Carlton stays and have booked several nights with them. My husband and I were thinking since we could never afford to go there on our own, this would be a great way to experience luxury stays/travel.

But now I am having second thoughts. I am afraid the cost of the REST of the vacation will still be too much. Such as resort fees, parking fees, dining - (it comes with one free meal for two a day though), tipping of hotel staff (who do I need to tip?), any other fees (like to use beach chairs? beach towels?). Also, you have to pay for internet usage, so we need to probably have all activities/dining researched and planned before leaving because I don't want that as an added cost to the vacation.

We are staying at the Sarasota, FL location and we are taking our children and using this as our family vacation. The resort does have child friendly activities that I have already checked into- however the day camp is VERY expensive so we won't be sending the kids to that.

Rather, we plan to do our own outings and visit the beach and pool quite often!

The award does come with Ritz Carlton "bucks" to spend at the resort (most likely I'll have to use it all on parking fees though), and it also come with a Spa certificate.

I guess I am wanting any suggestions on what we can do to cut costs, ways to get upgrades, or anything like that.

If this is posted in the wrong place, sorry. And thanks in advance for any suggestions.