I’m glad the snow is behind us and we’ve finally got some good weather (hope you are too!). The warm temps always get me thinking about all the exciting possibilities for a summertime travel. While I’ve been busy working with many of you to plan a family vacation, for those who are still behind… it’s not too late for us to start.
To narrow down the options, travelers will need to choose the type of family vacation that fits the interests and ages of their family members. Here are three family vacation categories that have been popular with my clients – as well my recommendations on specific destinations sure to please everyone in your clan.
Resorts For Relaxation
When it comes to escaping the everyday life, resorts and spas prove to be the ultimate destination spots for families, as well as couples and singles. Resorts are located at extraordinary destinations featuring pristine beaches, gourmet restaurants and cafés, luxury suites, pampering spa packages, outdoor activities for all ages and interests and so much more.
I highly recommend NOW Resorts and Dreams Resorts. They have been wonderful to work with, as they are very geared towards accommodating special requests. The staff directly works with me and together we strive to create a memorable experience for you and your loved ones. These luxurious resorts are spread throughout Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Check out the Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, voted one of the top 25 hotels in Mexico for families and the recipient of Trip Advisor’s 2014 Traveler’s Choice award. This natural white-sand beach resort surrounded by crystal-clear Caribbean water provides an idyllic setting for a relaxing family vacation with beautiful golf courses, ethnic restaurants, live entertainment and rooms with private plunge pools.
Adventures Abroad
If you are looking for an experience beyond beach and sun, I would recommend choosing your part of the world and booking a guided tour. The possibilities are endless, with tours that range from Ayers Rock of Australia to the islands of Greece to the railroads of Alaska. If you’ve read my blogs in the past, you know how I feel about guided tours and how they are not only hassle-free but are also a great way to immerse the family into the culture and history. We can make it fun for kids and adults alike by planning separate activities for adults and children along with a good mix of “together” activities.
Two of my favorite travel companies are Globus and Adventures by Disney. If you don’t have as much time for a vacation or want to stay within the U.S, a good option might be a tour by Globus family vacation. Their Wild Wild West tour features river adventures in Wyoming, breathtaking views at the Yellowstone National Park and uncovering exotic wildlife and fascinating fossils. This tour packs quite a bit of adventure for everyone!
If you are willing to travel outside the U.S., I recommend Adventures by Disney tours that allow families and kids to experience the adventure of a lifetime! These tours often described as, ‘part concierge, guide and storyteller’, are perfect for travelling abroad sans the stress. With local experts, engaging activities, ample amenities, adventure guides coordinating trip logistics and personal touches throughout, Adventures by Disney excites, thrills, and pleases family members of all ages.
One of the most popular adventures right now is the Adventure by Disney’s Scotland: A Brave Adventure. Scotland’s lush landscapes with ancient stone castles served as the inspiration and backdrop for the Disney Pixar animated film Brave. It will be an unforgettable experience!
A few highlights from the Scotland tour:
- Tours of Scottish castles
- Exploring the facts and lore about the Loch and learning about the famous monster Nessie (your kids will love it!)
- Walking through the mysterious Callanish standing stones as your guide reveals scientific theories and folklore surrounding these stones.
- Horseback riding and archery at Rothiemurchus Estate, one of the greatest tracts of natural forest in Britain.
Classic Destination
If you are looking for a traditional vacation with broad appeal for the family, you can never go wrong with a classic destination like Hawaii. Your kids will enjoy outdoor adventures at family parks and beaches with lifeguards and full picnic and restroom facilities, discovering age old lava rock carvings etched into stone (called petroglyphs) stargazing through telescopes, exploring volcano tubes and lava fields, building sand castles, snorkeling, exploring the planetarium and interactive exhibits – your children will walk away learning something about astronomy, volcanology or oceanography. The fresh, floral air; tepid, tranquil water; breathtaking, natural beauty of Hawaii will prove to be relaxing for adults. Indeed, there’s no place on earth like Hawaii!
So, what type of vacation is your family up for this summer? If you aren’t sure, I can help you evaluate the options and get a trip on your calendar. And for those of you who are big planners, we can even begin working on your summer 2015 trip!