Does the expression "family travel" make you recoil in terror? Well fear not, a family excursion, if planned well, need not be a trip from hell. It’s really up to you – I’ve seen families manage complex itineraries with aplomb, and I’ve witnessed incompetence that would make Clark Griswald look like a savvy traveler. Some folks struggle with the decision-making--road trip or airline getaway, while some are paralyzed worrying about expenses. Don't let any of that stop you. Amy is here to help!
The first thing to understand is that family travel can be fun. In fact, it’s supposed to be fun, otherwise what’s the point? It doesn’t have to be extravagantly expensive either. There are loads of options no matter what your budget is. If you can't afford to travel far, check out something local–perhaps a festival–and make a day of it. Or perhaps you want to drive to your destination, saving on airfare. Have you thought about renting a car so that you don't put unnecessary miles on the family vehicle? It can also be a way of getting a roomier vehicle for the trip. (Although at holiday time minivans go fast, so be sure to reserve ahead of time!)
Of course, getting there is just half the battle. Now you have to figure out where to stay. The right lodging should factor in by both price and activities. If you can't afford a fancy hotel with specialized kids programming, look for a destination that has plenty of attractions suitable for your kids, whatever their ages and interests. (And while you're checking into it, is there something you might like – maybe even a baby-sitting service so that you can swing a night off?) Not surprisingly this holiday season the top choices for families this season will be Amusement Parks, specifically Orlando, and Ski areas, surrounding Denver. But families consistently flock to spots across Florida, Hawaii and the Caribbean as well.
When traveling as a family, the key is to know your own needs and ask whether or not they can be appropriately met. The following tips will help you identify a kid-friendly vacation spot that's right for you.
- As they say, location is everything. When kids are involved, you usually can rely on having your hands full (and then some!). Make sure the layout of the property makes sense. Ask if there is direct access to the beach or whether or not you have to take an elevator or climb stairs to get there.
- Make sure it meets everyone’s needs. Just because a resort claims to be family friendly doesn't ensure that the place is right for your children. A good program for toddlers isn't necessarily a good place for a 9-year-old. Look for age separation as well as age appropriate programming. You may also want to ask about the adult to child ratio for supervision as well as supervisory training.
- Make sure the surroundings are safe, if the rooms haven't been childproofed you'll need to do so. Avoid furniture with sharp edges, exposed outlets or plastic garbage bags that may be out in the open. Make sure balconies and patios are safe or doors are locked.
- Are the dinning options suitable for your picky children? Select a lodging option with a refrigerator to store snacks. A kitchenette will cut down on meal costs too.
- Unfamiliar with the place and afraid to commit? Ask for references from friends or look for customer reviews online.
A truly kid friendly spot will have thought everything through so that there is no problem that can't easily be solved and you will actually feel like you've had a vacation. For your upcoming family trip selecting the right destination and hotel will lay the groundwork for a fabulous family vacay!
October 24, 2004