Family Travel Site

Family Vacations Are Special – And Require a Little Extra Planning

Planning a family vacation takes some effort to ensure the entire family can have an enjoyable time. There’s nothing worse than having even one member of the family not happy with the lodging, food, or activities.

Mom and Dad need some time alone, and the Kids need plenty of safe, supervised activities to keep them happy and busy. We all know that Teenagers have special needs of their own. Traveling with Babies also presents its challenges. And if the Grandparents, or other family members are joining the vacation party, that involves even more “special needs”.

Sometimes just PLANNING a family vacation can wear you out!

Since the Adults are doing the family vacation planning, the kids needs come first. Make sure the property you choose is “kid friendly“, and has enough activities to keep the little ones, and teenagers happy. If the kids are happy, the vacation is off to a good start.

Teenagers are at the age where they aren’t quite grown, but obviously do not want “kid” activities. Most family resorts attract families with pre-teens and teenagers, and have planned activities for this “hard to please” age group. Many times teenagers just want to meet other teens, talk, listen to music, and hang out. Parents of teens know this senario all to well!

There are many vacation properties that are “family friendly“, and that simply means having supervised activities for the kids, enough room for everyones comfort, easy access for senior citizens, restaurant facilities, and in many cases, lock off rooms so the family can be together-yet have privacy. And of course Mom and Dad need to feel comfortable leaving the kids or other family members for some time of their own.

Many family friendly hotels and resorts offer a “kids stay, and eat free” program, swimming pools, arcades, play areas and games rooms.

Other important questions to consider:

Is the hotel close to other attractions?

What type of neighborhood is the hotel located in?

Does the hotel have kitchen facilities?

Are babysitting services offered?

When your family is involved, there are never too many questions.

HOW ABOUT A FAMILY CRUISE?

A great alternative to a “land” vacation is a family cruise. Cruise lines have perfected the family vacation. No need to worry about whether the smaller kids have something to do, and babysitting services. The teenagers have “clubs” of their own, and Mom and Dad can enjoy time to themselves. This is a trip even Grandparents love to be invited on.

Todays “mega” ships have something for everyone – Rock Climbing, Ice Skating, Basketball, Dance Classes, Spas, Casinos, Internet Cafes, Libraries, Movie Theaters, Boutique Shops, Lectures, and the list goes on.

And of course, when the ship lands there are those exciting ports of call. This is a “no brainer” vacation.

Families can choose connecting rooms, suites or rooms across the hall from each other. Discounts are given for the third and forth person in each room, so many times cruising can be your best vacation value. And family groups get even bigger discounts.

We believe in knowing as much about your destination as possible before you go. In asking the right questions, you can ensure a happy, safe family vacation to be remembered.

Isn’t that what vacations are supposed to be about? You bet!

Whether you’re booking your vacation online in our secure online booking engine, or using the services of one of our agents – we’re always available to answer any of your questions.

Visit our Family Friendly & Specialty Travel site for more information, and vacation alternatives.

We look forward to assisting in your next vacation