Paradise Found On Turks & Caicos Family Vacations The Turks & Caicos Islands are known for beautiful white sand beaches, clear turquoise water, and exceptional water sports. The good news for parents is that this tropical island oasis can also be both affordable and family friendly at Ocean Club Resorts. (read more)
Family Fun In Antigua Guatemala
La Antigua Guatemala ("the old Guatemala") is a wonderful destination for families interested in cultural exploration, shopping, adventure, and new experiences. This quaint town filled with colorful buildings is the perfect size for families and an excellent home base for exploring the region's attractions. (read more)
London with Kids in Tow
Traveling to London with kids is an eye-opening experience allowing adults to see the city through the eyes of a child. The city is filled with a plethora of family-friendly activities. Here are our top seven picks. (read more)
Magical Family Vacations Aboard the Disney Dream
Families who are considering a family cruise vacation should check out the Disney Dream. This new ship is designed specifically for family vacations with kids of all ages. This new ship is a great family travel choice for family vacation fun. (read more)
Island Hopping at Long Bay Beach Resort:
Sailing to multiple islands on a Caribbean family vacation sounds like something for the yacht club crowd, but it's not hard to do on a family resort vacation in the British Virgin Islands. It's all about picking the right spot. (read more)
Take An Africa Family Safari: A Journey for the Soul Nothing conjures up "epic family vacation" better than an Africa safari. For family travelers, these kinds of adventure vacations top the bucket list and are superb choices for making great family vacation memories. Few trips offer as many opportunities to get up close to wildlife, explore different cultures, share new experiences, and learn about all the world has to offer. (read more)
Beaches of South Walton Family Vacations
It's generally easy to categorize family beach destinations. The Beaches of South Walton, however, defy labels and stereotypes. Among the 15 diverse Florida beach communities that comprise this destination, there's something for everyone. (read more)
A Puerto Rico Family Vacation
I'm watching my two daughters standing on the bow of a 50-foot wooden sailboat, helping the crew raise the sails. It's a perfect, sunny day in the waters off of Puerto Rico, and we're sailing over some mostly-undiscovered coral reefs, keeping an eye out for turtles and dolphins. (read more)
Peter Island Resort: A Caribbean Family Hideaway
Families have their own unique definitions of the perfect family vacation. For families craving beautiful beaches, luxurious accommodations and attentive service, Peter Island Resort fits the bill perfectly. (read more)
Fun For All Ages At Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe
Finding a resort that will work well for young children, teens and college-age kids is tough for vacation planning parents and grandparents. The all-inclusive Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe is a resort that will please everyone, from the pre-kindergarten set to stressed out adults. (read more)
12 Great Places Where The Wild Things Are
With the release of the new movie adaptation of Maurice Sendak's classic children's book, Where the Wild Things Are, families are seeking out wildlife-rich destinations to be the setting for their next family vacation adventure.
Here are 12 spectacular places where 'the wild things' still run free: (read more)
A Family Vacation in Phoenix:
The Greater Phoenix area is an excellent family travel destination. Families can choose from a wide array of resorts for the family vacation, and there's lots to see and do. (read more)
Take The Family To Yosemite National Park
It's a little after 7 a.m. and our tiny band of hikers is marching up the road towards Mariposa Grove. A freak May snowstorm has closed the two-lane road to cars, but we don't care. We're determined to see Yosemite National Park's famous Giant Sequoias. (read more)
Rocky Mountaineer Brings Families Together
Parents' main family vacation goals are to make family travel memories and reconnect as a family. Family vacations give everyone time to travel to exciting places, share new experiences, and bond together. This is particularly true on an iconic Rocky Mountaineer family vacation in Western Canada's outdoor wonderland. (read more)
Rocky Mountaineer Makes Western Canada Easy
Western Canada is a top spot for family vacations, especially for those who love the great outdoors. There are so many wonderful places to visit in Alberta and British Columbia, as well as an abundance of things to see and do. Rocky Mountaineer makes it easy for families by connecting a number of these exciting spots on their spectacular train routes. Here are some of our favorites. (read more)
Taking A Mediterranean Family Cruise Vacation The Mediterranean is a wonderful destination for a family cruise vacation. Travel logistics and cost considerations for such a trip can be daunting, however. That is why a growing number of families are putting their European family vacations on cruise control. (read more)
A California Central Coast Family Vacation
Nature, castles, vineyards, children's museums, beaches, farmer's markets, and more - the California Central Coast has so much to offer for families. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Wild Dunes Resort
At the north end of the aptly named Isle of Palms, a low-slung barrier island in the middle of South Carolina's Atlantic coast, Wild Dunes Resort has been welcoming family vacationers for more than 30 years. (read more)
Tampa Bay’s Top 10 Family Vacation Highlights
Tampa Bay, which includes the City of Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and several smaller beach communities, is located on the west coast of Florida, just 90 minutes from Orlando. A fun-filled family travel destination unto itself, Tampa Bay offers theme parks, aquariums, museums, and outdoor recreation on land and water. If that's not enough, there's also shopping, theater, and professional sports. (read more)
Cheap Disney Family Vacations:
Walt Disney World tops the family vacation list for many readers, but the big question is how families can travel to Disney for less. Here are 12 money-saving ways to make a Disney family vacation affordable for your crew. (read more)
A Florida Family Vacation at Saddlebrook Resort
Saddlebrook Resort is a great destination for families. Abby has kept this kids' club counselor running. So far, they've taken a nature walk, ridden bikes, gone swimming, and done about three different crafts. (read more)
Atlantis Paradise Island – A Family Playground in the Bahamas
The search for the perfect family vacation resort is often a difficult one. Parents are always looking for a travel destination with something for every family member. Atlantis Paradise Island is one of those kinds of family vacation spots. (read more)
Exploring Alaska's Inside Passage With Kids
Alaska family vacations are popular this year - why not try something different? Travel with the family the Alaskan way and see the state by ferry on the Alaska Marine Highway System. (read more)
Choosing a Disney Family Vacation: Disneyland or Disney World?
Family Travel Network readers often wonder which Disney park is best for a family vacation: Disneyland or Walt Disney World. This mom traveled 3000 miles to find the answer. (read more)
Family Fun Awaits at Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Fun-filled family vacations are a sure bet when families travel to Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Pennsylvania's largest four-season family resort. Seven Springs is a great choice for your family travel plans, no matter what time of year. (read more)
Elk Mountain - Pennsylvania's Hidden Ski Gem
New York Metropolitan area families looking for a close-by family-friendly ski experience may find just what they want in northeastern Pennsylvania. Just over a two-hour drive from New York City, Elk Mountain Ski Resort is perfect for family skiing because of its moderate size and diverse terrain. (read more)
Bonaire Family Vacation: Dive Into Adventure
If your family is looking for a vacation filled with adventure, watersports, fine dining and natural beauty - look no further than the Caribbean island of Bonaire. This laid-back little gem is certainly a diver's paradise, but there's so much more to this destination than what's under the sea. Bonaire has a broad range of attractions that are sure to meet any active family's vacation demands. (read more)
Santa Monica's Top 5 Family Friendly Highlights
If your perfect family vacation includes miles of golden beaches, abundant sunshine, sparkling ocean waters, lush palm trees, and lots of activities for the entire family, then look no further than picturesque Santa Monica, California. Here the family fun trifecta of sand, surf, and sun seem as though they were created to order by nearby Hollywood and the sun shines nearly 95% of the time. (read more)
Ecoventura and the Galapagos:
A Perfect Match for Families The Galapagos Islands are a spectacular destination for family travel. For adventure seekers and nature lovers, this is the family vacation of a lifetime. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Cheeca Lodge and Spa
When an errant cigarette butt torched the Tiki bar at Cheeca Lodge and Spa on Islamorada island in the Florida Keys during a 2009 New Year's celebration -- followed quickly by an inferno in the main lodge -- many saw the destruction as the death knell for the oceanfront resort that for decades has been an integral part of the Keys culture. (read more)
Rocky Mountain National Park Offers Affordable Family Adventures
Families looking for high adventure that is easily accessible and affordable should make their way to Estes Park, Colorado, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. (read more)
Experiencing History: Family Fun in Gettysburg
Family vacations can be educational and enjoyable. A perfect choice for a family vacation that can be both fun and a learning experience is a trip to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
Looking for a popular place to take your next family vacation? Think Aruba. Families travel here year after year for easy-going family vacations where everyone can count on having fun. (read more)
A Family Vacation in Jacksonville
Our family is always looking for a new adventure and we recently found it in Jacksonville, Florida's largest city. While tourists often think of Miami or Tampa for a family vacation spot, Jacksonville has tons to offer families who love sun and sports. (read more)
The Magic of Yellowstone
Remember Dorothy’s words sung over and over as she skipped along the yellow brick road? “Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” Had she been in the magical northwest corner of Wyoming instead of the Land of Oz, she might have been singing. “Geysers and hot springs and fumaroles; elk and moose and grizzly bears, OH MY!” (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Barceló Los Cabos Palace Deluxe
Families love all-inclusive resorts for family vacations - in fact, it's a major family travel trend. Barceló's new flagship resort offers family vacationers an all-inclusive with great food, top-notch amenities and so much more. (read more)
Taking A Baja Family Adventure Vacation
I've always thought that my kids were as slippery as seals, especially in the water. This time, though, they aren't alone – real baby sea lions are swimming right along with them. We're on an adventure family vacation in Baja, Mexico, organized through Boundless Journeys. (read more)
Tips For Planning An Africa Family Safari
This year, many parents and grandparents are seeking out wildlife-rich destinations for their next family vacation. An Africa safari is the ultimate family adventure, but planning such a trip can be daunting. That's why it's wise to consult with an expert. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort
Family vacations are "unforgettable" for a variety of reasons. Some family trips achieve that status because of their incredible destinations, while others are particularly memorable due to family celebrations or shared activities together. A few getaways manage to combine both of these, resulting in a vacation that strengthens family bonds and leaves everyone rejuvenated. Windjammer Landing is that type of place. (read more)
Traverse City: A Festival Of Fun For Families
There's a problem when you visit Traverse City with the family. Whether you're there for a weekend or a month, you simply cannot fit everything into your stay. This small town with a population of 15,000 is located between the fourth and fifth finger at the top of the mitten, which is the map of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, and lies on the shore of beautiful Lake Michigan. (read more)
St. Thomas and Wyndham Sugar Bay: A Sweet Combination for Family Fun
Some vacation spots are exceptional choices for families with kids of all ages – even hard to please teens. St. Thomas is a favorite family travel spot, as there's so much to see and do. The U.S. Virgin Islands are known for their watersports, the beaches are spectacular, and Charlotte Amalie provides a wide choice of diversions for avid shoppers. It's impossible to get bored. Convenient ferries also make island hopping to St. John and Tortola an easy proposition. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Camelback Inn, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa
Scottsdale is a superior place for family travel, and one of the family travel gems is the Camelback Inn, a JW Marriott Resort & Spa. The resort, set on 125 acres of lush desert landscape, gives families an authentic Southwestern experience. Nestled at the base of Mummy Mountain, and overlooking the famous Camelback Mountain, this is the place where luxury, relaxation and fun come naturally. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Costa Rica's Flamingo Beach Resort & Spa
Family travel is all about value these days - and budget-friendly family resorts in fantastic locations are always the hardest properties to find. The Family Travel Network's staff constantly scours the globe for these superb family vacation treasures and we just found a new one in Costa Rica. The Flamingo Beach Resort is a value-oriented family vacation gem. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Arizona Grand Resort
It won't be more than 5 minutes into your family vacation at the Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix before the kids start asking: "When are we going on the slides?"
You can't blame them: Three thrilling 8-story waterslides tower above the resort's pool, and can be seen from just about anywhere on the property. It's almost as if they're calling out, "Ride me if you dare!"
(read more)
Family Adventures in Guatemala's Highlands
One of the biggest family vacation challenges is choosing a family travel destination that appeals to every family member. Guatemala is a good choice for a family trip because it offers attractions to match almost every family travel interest.
(read more)
Schweitzer Mountain Resort: Altitude without the Attitude
As residents of South Carolina's lowcountry, we experience daily the reason Charleston is consistently rated one of America's friendliest cities. So when Schweitzer Mountain Resort threw down the gauntlet, taunting us with their marketing campaign as an unpretentious, family friendly ski resort, we scornfully laughed: "Ha, let's see if they know friendly!"
(read more)
Enjoying A Mount Snow Family Ski Vacation
If your family lives in the Northeast and doesnt want to travel far for a great family ski vacation, consider Mount Snow in southern Vermont. . . (read more)
Resort Spotlight: JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa
Tucson is a great spot for family travel and the family vacation star in the area is the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa. Set in a beautiful desert landscape on the border of the Tucson Mountain Park, the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort delights families with its extensive waterpark collection, Rising Starr Kids Club recreation program, spacious rooms, and a wide variety of activities for all family members. . . . (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Club Med Ixtapa Pacific
Forty years ago, Club Med revolutionized the family vacation by introducing the childrens Mini Club Med to their already popular all-inclusive vacation concept. This innovative move raised the bar for family vacation options to a whole new level - and family travel landscape has never been the same. Parents enjoyed the ease of vacationing with their children in idyllic locations, bonding and enjoying each others company apart from the hassles of the everyday world (read more)
Snow Much Fun at New Hampshire's Eagle Mountain House
As we turned off Route 16 to enter Jackson Village, we immediately knew we had come to a special place. Our first indication was the quintessential red covered bridge that we drove through that announced our arrival in Jackson Village. As we drove up to our lodging accommodations – the Eagle Mountain House – and took in the idyllic view from the front porch, we were convinced that we had chosen a perfect place for a winter escape. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Bitter End Yacht Club
Families are constantly seeking unspoiled islands for family vacations and multigenerational family reunions. The Bitter End Yacht Club, a popular sailors hideaway in the British Virgin Islands, is one of our family travel favorites. The resort keeps families coming back year after year for its broad array of watersports and island excursions, lush tropical setting, and laid-back approach to family vacations. . . . (read more)
Resort Spotlight: The Cliff House Resort in Maine
A favorite vacation destination for many families in New England is the Maine Coast. A great choice for families looking to experience some of the best this area has to offer is The Cliff House Resort & Spa in Ogunquit. Located on Shore Road mid-way between Ogunquit and York, The Cliff House offers the very best of what makes a Maine vacation so special – an unparalleled view of the rocky coast. All of the resort's buildings are situated on the top of Bald Head Cliff in ways that offer spectacular ocean views from all perspectives. . . . . (read more)
A Fort Lauderdale Family Vacation
My eight-year-old daughter and I were dying to escape the rainy Philadelphia weather and travel to a warm and sunny beach for a mini family vacation. Our destination? Fort Lauderdale, a gem of a spot for family vacations in South Florida. (read more)
St. Kitts: A Sweet Spot For Family Travel
Families seeking an unspoiled destination for their next family vacation should take a close look at St. Kitts. The Eastern Caribbean island changed its focus from sugar cane to tourism just three years ago, so this laid-back paradise still remains relatively undeveloped. St. Kitts has a particularly appealing place in the family travel world: it's an off the beaten path vacation destination with an abundance of natural attractions, direct flights, and a gorgeous brand name hotel. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Casa Dorada Los Cabos Families continually ask, "Where can we go on a Cabo family vacation where our kids can swim at the beach?" Up until now, those family beach vacation options have been severely limited. The opening of the Casa Dorada Los Cabos, Resort & Spa has changed all that, bringing family-friendly luxury vacation accommodations to the heart of Medano Beach in downtown Cabo San Lucas.
(read more)
Resort Spotlight: Barcelo La Jolla de Mismaloya
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a great destination for families seeking a little adventure on their vacation. One of choicest travel finds in this area is the quaint town of Mismaloya, where the mountains and lush jungle swoop down to meet the sea. This is the setting for the Barcelo La Jolla de Mismaloya, an expansive all-suites resort that offers families a tropical, stress-free base for a family vacation. (read more)
Riviera Maya: A Beach and Adventure Family Vacation That's Worth the Trip
Watching my 8-year-old daughter two days into our mother-daughter family vacation, it's a little hard to believe my eyes. Zoes always been a little bit fearful - she's the kid who will never try the roller coaster at the theme park and who shuts her eyes tight when the plane takes off (this from the daughter of a travel writer). But she's swimming in a dark, underground cave, and she's laughing her head off. Of course, it can't hurt that she's met a cute little boy from Oklahoma and he's pointing out bats to her as they fly overhead . . . but since when does Zoe like bats?. . . (read more)
Newport: A Four-Season Destination For Families
Long regarded as one of the sailing capitals of the world, Newport, Rhode Island is often perceived as only a summer resort destination. However, Newport offers such a wide variety of year-round and seasonal activities and events for families with children that it makes a perfect choice for a family vacation any time of the year. From its spectacular coastal scenery to its awe-inspiring architecture, Newport has so much to do and see that families will have a great time experiencing this wonderful coastal New England town. In addition to the attractions and events of the summer months, visitors will be drawn to Newport during the entire month of December with the Christmas in Newport Celebration, and again in February during the Annual Newport Winter Festival. (read more)
Daufuskie Island Resort & Breathe Spa
Our family frequently needs a genuine getaway, a place to revive drained spirits and to reacquaint ourselves with each other.
A few miles off South Carolina's Hilton Head island lies "the first cay" or "Daufuskie" in local Gullah speak* and its private resort. Accessible only by water, Daufuskie Island Resort and Breathe Spa is a true getaway ... (read more)
Suite Stays in Chicago Chicago is one cool town for kids and it's perfect for a family weekend getaway. Home to deep dish pizza and Wrigley Field, the Windy City offers tons of funmost of it within a short walk or el ride.
If youre thinking of going to Chicago with the family, pick a hotel thats central to all the action. The Embassy Suites Hotel Chicago-Downtown/Lakefront has suite-style accommodations in the heart of downtown Chicago, just steps from Michigan Avenue and the citys Magnificent Mile.
(click here for more)
Bahamas Breeze: Family Fun at the Sheraton Cable Beach Choosing the right place for your Caribbean family beach vacation can be a tough task. There are glitzy resorts in the Caribbean, bare bones B&Bs, and high-priced mega-hotels offering such an incredible laundry list of activities that you may not see your family again until after you check-out. But where can you go if youre looking for a family beach vacation that actually revolves around spending time with your family - and wont break the bank to boot? Consider the new Sheraton Cable Beach Resort in sunny Nassau, Bahamas.
(click here for more)
Mom And Teen Son Do Daytona Does Aaron remember when he was 8 and we walked the beach in Daytona, his dad and I wondered as we walked that night to dinner on the Boardwalk? Aaron had been so amazed at the time: The sand squeaks when you walk on it!
Of course we couldnt ask him then and there if he remembered that because he is, after all, now a teenager, meaning walking on the beach with us would be akin to being seen in public wearing Speedo swimming briefs.....(click here for more)
Costa Rica With Kids the Easy Way Costa Rica is teeming with wildlife, but families may miss much of it without a naturalist guide. Animals do not appear on cue like characters at Disney World, and childrens attention spans and patience can quickly vanish when wildlife is not spotted promptly. Highly experienced guides know where to look for nature in this jungle paradise, and can point it out even when it is camouflaged by water or lush foliage. Some of the highlights of our trip were close-up views of flamboyant toucans, languid sloths, animated howler and spider monkeys, brilliant blue morpho butterflies, a red-eyed tree frog, dazzlingly iridescent hummingbirds, and giant nesting sea turtles.
(click here for more)
Myrtle Beach: The Grand Strand of South Carolina With sixty miles of sandy beaches, accommodations to fit any budget, exciting entertainment, and what appears to be an endless list of family attractions, all presented with the right touch of Southern hospitality, the Myrtle Beach area is a perfect choice for a fun-filled family vacation. Stretching from Little River in the north to Pawley’s Island in the south, the Grand Strand, the popular name for the Myrtle Beach area, comprises 12 cities along the South Carolina coast, each with its own distinct atmosphere.
(click here for more)
Spectacular Alaska Family VacationsFamily travel to Alaska is hot this year. The state's wild beauty, abundant wildlife, and vast opportunities for hiking and exploration are luring droves of family vacationers. Alaska family travel adventures can take place on large or small ships, via a combination of cruise and rail tours, by car, or with a family friendly tour operator offering special family oriented departures (read more)
Enjoying The Shores In Daytona If youre planning on driving the kids to Disney World from somewhere in the North, you should make a stop in Daytona Beach Shores before you get to your final destination. Not necessarily for the fun of driving your car right out onto the beach, which is nothing to sneeze at, and not even necessarily to treat them to the Daytona 500, which, granted, draws 250,000 people to town in February and is also fun. On the contrary, you should stop so the kids can stay at a place that, even though it looks like an upscale adults-only hotel, is one of the most welcoming to children that weve encountered on our travels. In fact, you could easily stay here enjoying the beautiful beach and never get to Orlando at all.
(click here for more)
Cancun's Family Eco-Adventures Cancun has always been a favorite vacation destination for many families, with its beautiful beaches, attractions and family friendly resorts. The arrival of Hurricane Wilma in October, 2005, put a damper on many families travel plans and forced them to take their vacations elsewhere. Almost one year later, reports are that Cancun is back and just as appealing as ever (read more)
The Winnetu Resort: Fun For Families on Marthas Vineyard Although we didnt bring any of our five children nor our one grandchild with us when we visited The Winnetu Resort here on South Beach (also called Katama Beach), almost as soon as we arrived, we wished we had. The first hint that this is not only an elegant hideaway for adult couples but a heavenly place for children as well was the 1941 Ford fire truck that goes back and forth the three miles from the resort into town, almost always filled with laughing children. The second were the small Adirondack chairs placed on the huge front lawn of the Winnetu that overlooks the beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Theyre about the perfect size for a 3-year-old.
(click here for more)
Planning an Adventure-Packed Montana Family Vacation The best family vacations create life-long memories and allow parents and kids to have fun together. Over the years, parents have found that taking a family adventure vacation is one of the best ways to make new family memories and enjoy the outdoors together. In fact, family vacations have become one of the fastest growing segments of the adventure travel industry.
(click here for more)
Beyond Fenway: A Familys First Foray to Boston Despite numerous business trips to Boston, the city never ranked high on our list of family vacation destinations. Boy, were we wrong. It turns out Boston is a lovely, lively place to take the kids on family travel adventures. Boston is a very walkable city that revels in its role in American history while readily revealing its 21st Century sensibilities.
(click here for more)
Maui: Island of Adventure When choosing a Hawaiian island for your next family vacation, say aloha to Maui. Our family vacationed there this past summer, and Maui delivered everything two work-weary parents and two active teens could want in an island getaway. My husband and I logged hours of lounge-chair time on the beautiful beaches and reveled in the peacefulness of the place. At the same time, our restless teens still found plenty to do there. Magical Maui was able to meet our divergent needs by offering the perfect balance of relaxation and action.
(click here for more)
Kiawah Island: A Sanctuary for the Golfing Family Theres a reason you rarely see parents of young children playing golf together. An 18-hole round of golf takes enough time that, even if Mom and Dad have the money for babysitters, or even if they have a grandmother handy, the guilt at leaving the kids for five hours or so, and having more fun than they are, is still there.
(read more)
Sanibel/Captiva Family Vacation Guide The shell-strewn beaches of Sanibel and Captiva Islands attract thousands of families each year. Every day, from dawn to dusk (and during the night if that's when low tide arrives), you'll see hundreds of people walking the beaches in the "Sanibel Stoop", heads and shoulders bent ... eyes totally focused...
(click here for more)
Boston Family Vacation Guide Boston is a super family destination for any season. There is so much to do here for those with every imaginable interest. In fact, this abundance of activities and sights can often be overwhelming....
(click here for more)
Miami Family Vacation Guide
Greater Miami and the beaches has something for everyone under the sun. This area of Florida offers visitors the cutting edge of urban chic -- combined with the beauty and splendor of a tropical paradise. The average yearly temperature is a mild 76 degrees...
(click here for more)
Tahiti by Freighter: A Family Travel Adventure
Finding the perfect destination for a family vacation can be tough, especially for parents who are looking for something new and different in their next travel experience. If adventure travel and remote South Seas islands appeal to your family of explorers, a freighter cruise to the remote Marquesas and Tuomotu islands may be just the ticket your family is seeking ...
(click here for more)
Edgewater Beach Resort and Panama Citys Gulf Coast Transformation
Panama City Beach on Floridas northwest Gulf coast is transforming itself slowly from its honky-tonk past to attract a more expansive group of people to its famous sugar-white sand and emerald green water. Its not done reinventing itself, and hopefully it never will lose some of its real, homegrown American feel. But newer properties such as the Edgewater Beach Resort in St. Andrews Bay are part of its transition efforts to attract families on a budget who are not willing to accept low-rent digs.
(click here for more)
Norwegian Cruise Line Makes Hawaii Easy for Families My husband is a resort vacation addict. As a true workaholic, he enjoys the freedom and relaxation that resorts offer. He likes to eat whenever he wants, lounge on the beach at his leisure, and savor his independence. As a result, regimented cruises have never been his vacation option of choice....
(click here for more)
Great Family Vacations: Caribbean Adventures on St. Vincent and the Grenadines For centuries sailors have headed toward St. Vincent and its sister islands, the Grenadines, a 45-mile archipelago lying between Grenada and St. Lucia. Legend has it that the buccaneers of long ago buried their booty in the lush hills and rock strewn caves; savvy yachtsmen still seek treasured sanctuary in these islands' sequestered coves.....
(click here for more)
Club Med Punta Cana: An All-Inclusive for the Active Family Club Med is famous for its family-friendly ambience, international flavor, and amazing array of all-inclusive family oriented activities. And Club Med Punta Cana, located on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, is one of the companys best resorts for active families. With direct flights to Punta Cana now available from many major gateway cities, its easier than ever to travel there. And once you and your family land, the resort is just ten minutes from the airport.......
(click here for more)
New York City: A Magical Destination for Winter Family Travel Even before the first snowflakes fall, New York City transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for creating family memories. Skaters execute figure-eights under a magnificent tree, the Rockettes kick up their heels, Sugar Plum Fairies travel effortlessly across the stage at Lincoln Center, enchanting store windows draw children and family members, and traditional holiday lights, music, and decorations spread their annual joy. All this begins as Santa travels to town on the last float of the legendary family favorite -- the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade........
(click here for more)
Take the Kids on a Family Vacation to Alaska This Summer Family travel to Alaska is hot this year. The state's wild beauty, abundant wildlife, and vast opportunities for hiking and exploration are luring droves of family vacationers. Alaska family travel adventures can take place on large cruise ships, via a combination of cruise and rail tours, aboard luxury yachts, or with a family friendly tour operator offering special family oriented departures. Choosing the best option to see this magnificent state will depend on your family's specific needs and interests
(click here for more)
Club Med Punta Cana Debuts The Ultimate Teen Lounge, The Ramp If your family includes teens, you know that summer family travel planning can be tough. The best family vacations offer something to please every family member, and teens can be hard to satisfy. If you are seeking a family vacation that is sure to please teens, consider family travel to Club Med Punta Cana this summer, where they have just launched one of the coolest teen lounges ever. (click here for more)
Nickelodeon Nirvana: A New Family Travel Option in Orlando Get ready to travel, SpongeBob fans. Holiday Inn has opened the first Nickelodeonbranded family resort by transforming its popular Holiday Inn Family Suites Resort in Lake Buena Vista into the 777-suite Nickelodeon Family Suites, commonly referred to as the NickHotel. The result is pure family travel nirvana.(click here for more)
Stowe Will Give Families The Ultimate Ski Vacation Whether you are planning a family ski trip for the 2007 season, or want to get an early start on planning a fabulous family ski vacation for the 2007-2008 season, you should consider a trip to Stowe, Vermont. Recent snowstorms have given Vermont ski areas new life for this season, and conditions at Stowe are so good that the resort plans to remain open until April 22, 2007. As a result, theres plenty of good skiing left this season.(click here for more)
Sugarbush Additions Improve the Family Ski Experience If you are planning a family ski trip this winter, Sugarbush Resort in Warren, Vermont is offering new reasons to make it the family travel destination of choice. The recent unveiling of Lincoln Peak Village, Clay Brook Residences, and the Gate House Base Lodge make this mountain resort an excellent setting for a memorable family ski vacation.(click here for more)
Planning an Adventure-Packed Montana Family Vacation
The best family vacations create life-long memories and allow parents and kids to have fun together. Over the years, parents have found that taking a family adventure vacation is one of the best ways to make new family memories and enjoy the outdoors together. In fact, family vacations have become one of the fastest growing segments of the adventure travel industry. (read more)
Mazatlan: Mexicos Pacific Pearl Shines Brightly Again
The shine may have worn off for a couple of decades since the heyday in the mid- 1980's, but today, Mazatlan, known as "The Pearl of the Pacific" of Mexican beaches, is recovering much of its luster. Aside from being a popular stop for several West coast cruise lines, it's also known as an affordable deep sea fishing destination popular with Mexican vacationers. (read more)
Atlantis: A Family Paradise in the Bahamas
Billed as a destination resort for families, the grand-scale Atlantis (located on Paradise Island in the Bahamas) is part family beach haven, part waterpark, and part aquatic habitat. This majestic, towering hotel complex appears to rise right out of the ocean. If your family loves swimming, water slides, and getting up close and personal with marine life, this is a great place to choose for a family vacation. (read more)
Top 10 Suggestions for Family Activities and Attractions on Oahu
If your family is planning to travel to Hawaii, take a look at these tips on what to see and do suggested by Sandi Maruyama, concierge at the family friendly JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa. Sandi understands what her family guests are looking for on their Hawaii vacation, and she has assisted families with a wide variety of travel needs over the last four years. In fact, she was named "2004 Concierge of the Year." Here are Sandi's tips on family activities and attractions in Oahu: (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Barceló Punta Cana
The Barceló Punta Cana Resort in the Dominican Republic just got an extensive $14 million dollar facelift, and the results are impressive. Formerly the Breezes Punta Cana Resort, this all-inclusive property caters to families with a gorgeous beach, several large swimming pools, a children's club with its own "mini disco," and an energetic entertainment staff. (read more)
Into The Wild: An Alaska Family Road Trip Itinerary
Putting together a driving itinerary for a family vacation in Alaska is noeasy feat.Driving distances, varying interests and priorities, budgetary considerations, tour times, and other factors all come into play when customizing and planningan Alaska familyvacation. (read more)
Mount Sunapee: New Hampshires Hidden Gem
The ski season started off with a bang this year, as Mother Nature draped the Northeast with a blanket of snow on several occasions. Skiing families should make plans for the rest of the season, as the outlook appears even better. Most ski areas have had plenty of cold nights and have added their own snow to Mother Natures, creating a deep base that should carry them well into the spring . . . (read more)
Five Northeast Ski Resorts Deliver an Avalanche of Family Fun
America’s mountainous northeast region is jam-packed with family-friendly ski resorts just waiting for your visit this winter. A number of northeast ski resorts have been busy making improvements and upgrades to their facilities, both on the slopes and off. Here’s a rundown on five of the northeast’s top ski resorts and some of their newest improvements to make for a fun family ski vacation. . . (read more)
Club Med Cancun Yucatan is a GO for Families
Club Med is focusing exclusively on upscale and family-oriented vacations and its newly revitalized property in Cancun is the flagship for this philosophical shift. A revamped and classy Club Med Cancun Yucatan has emerged after $24 million dollars in renovations and it's a winner for families. While the flat screen televisions and chic European guest room decor are new, the quintessential hallmarks of a Club Med vacation have not been altered. The friendly G.O. staff, innovative cuisine, and wealth of all-inclusive activities are still as exceptional as ever. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: The Mountain Top Inn & Resort
If youre thinking about a winter family vacation that will get your family outdoors to enjoy exciting winter activities amid beautiful New England scenery, then consider taking your family to the veritable winter wonderland of Chittenden, Vermont. Never heard of Chittenden? Thats because its not the home of one of the Northeasts major Alpine ski areas. (read more)
Pigeon Forge: The Place for Family Fun
Families seeking a family vacation packed with thrills, music, excitement and fun should consider a trip to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Because of its wide variety of attractions and close proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this family travel destination attracts more than 11 million people a year. Pigeon Forge is a popular choice for large family reunions and well as a year-round family vacation getaway. (read more)
Four-Seasons of Family Fun at Smugglers' Notch, Vermont
Smugglers' Notch Resort is nestled at the base of three interconnected mountains in the heart of northern Vermont's ski country. Yet the Green Mountain hideaway is much more than a family winter playground. Families travel here all year long to experience the homey family-friendly condominium lodging, the festive village atmosphere, the stellar childrens and teens programs, a wide variety of family activities, and the opportunities to get up close and personal with the natural surroundings. Its rare for a family resort to be able to captivate kids of all ages, but Smugglers does this with ease. (read more)
See Alaska Your Way
By its very nature, Alaska conjures up images of adventure and rugged independence. After all, this is America's last frontier -- the "great land" as the native Aleuts called it. So, in planning our family's escape into the wild, we knew we didn't want to see Alaska with hordes of other visitors. We wanted a unique vacation experience that gave us the freedom to design our own trip and see Alaska in a more unique, personalized way (read more)
Top 10 Beijing Highlights for Families
Beijing, gearing up for the summer Olympics, is a fascinating if frustrating city. Traffic swarms, main avenues stretch ten lanes wide, hordes of bicyclists, many with children propped on the handlebars, dart around parked trucks, and the air tastes acrid, a result of the ever-present pollution.
With 11 million people and an urban sprawl covering 10,450-square miles, Beijing, at first, overwhelms us. Think Manhattan (about 23 square miles) multiplied 400 times taller skyscrapers, denser crowds, a constant stream of buses spewing exhaust, few tree-shaded sidewalks plus an-ever present, eye-burning grit. Connecting to Beijing requires work, but its well worth it. (read more)
A Sweet Family Vacation At Hersheypark
On the first day of our family vacation to Hersheypark, were standing on the ground looking up in awe. Zoe, my eight-year-old daughter, gulps when she sees the cars start up the hill, then says, Mom, you love roller coasters, so youre going to ride that, right?
Right. I do love roller coasters, and Im totally psyched to be at Hersheypark this weekend as the park debuts the newest of its eleven roller coasters, the Fahrenheit. . . . (read more)
Delight-fall Delaware Family Getaways
There's something special about traveling to the beach after Labor Day for a little fall family vacation getaway. The sun's rays seem a little brighter with winter just around the bend, and everyone wants to stay and play in the warm sand forever. This is the stuff memories are made of, and parents are aware that these last family vacation moments will remain etched in their minds throughout the cold winter season. . . . (read more)
Take A Seattle Family Vacation
At the top of the Space Needle, my two school-aged daughters are posing for photos. Theyre convinced that, absent concrete evidence, their friends wont believe that theyd gone all the way up above the clouds. Amazingly, my usually chicken kiddos are drinking in the views from this high up and begging to stay, even when were about to miss our shuttle and they know well have to walk back to the hotel. . . . (read more)
Denver and Boulder with Kids: A Family Vacation Guide
Fall in Colorado: We’d heard it was spectacular for family vacations. Still, the travel reviews weren’t up to the task of describing the crisp air, the fall foliage, and the incredible mountain views when we flew into Denver for a four-day Denver and Boulder fall family vacation. My two girls were excited to hike and bike, and I couldn’t wait to try out some of the area’s terrific hotels and restaurants. All in all? Denver and Boulder made for our best mother/daughter trip in a long, long time. . . . (read more)
Resort Spotlight: Trapp Family Lodge
Snow lovers like their winter family vacations filled with action-packed activities and adventures. Families seeking a family vacation destination that allows them to embrace the winter rather than escape from it should consider traveling to the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont. Here, youll find a family-friendly resort that will give everyone the chance to enjoy all that a winter family vacation can offer. . . . (read more)
Bring The Kids To The Caymans
On some maps, the tiny island of Cayman Brac looks like a speck of dust. On others, the 13-mile by one-mile mixture of coral and limestone in the middle of the Caribbean Sea doesnt even rate so much as a mere pinprick. But families who know it exists -- such as the David Wylies of Princeton, New Jersey -- have deliberately chosen to bring their four children, aged 10 to 14, here because they know what pleasures the Brac has in store for them (read more)
Ranch Vacations: A Family Reconnects in Paradise
On your left youll see Cloud Peak. Maddy giggled in her saddle when Kirk gestured in the fog. After finally winding our way to the top of the mesa above Paradise Guest Ranch in Buffalo, Wyoming we could see maybe 50 yards(read more)
A Family Vacation to Colonial Williamsburg
Interested in taking a family vacation, a trip back in time to the 18th century? Colonial Williamsburg has been restored to appear as it did during the Revolutionary War. This living history museum re-enacts daily life in detail with the clothing, homes, taverns and gardens. We thought it sounded so cool that, when my kids got out of school this summer, we decided to head south to this capital of colonial Virginia and a historical destination like none other. (read more)
A Family Vacation to Williamsburg: The Non-Colonial Activities
If you think of Williamsburg, VA, you might think of colonial history. When my family of four headed there for a family vacation this summer, we enjoyed the colonial activities, but we learned that Williamsburg is about so much more!(read more)
Great Family Skiing at Stratton Mountain in Vermont
Looking for a family ski vacation that offers something for everyone? Stratton Mountain has it all. The resort's great snow guarantee takes the worry out of family vacations here. In addition, the resort's wide range of accommodations and southern Vermont location makes family travel easy and budget friendly. (read more)
Resort Spotlight: JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
San Antonio is an amazing city and offers a true blend of fun, great weather and history for families to enjoy. The brand new JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is a beautiful property in San Antonio, Texas' second largest city. The lush resort is nestled in the enchanting Texas Hill Country community of Cibolo Canyons, where towering oaks and rolling mountains create a splendor of nature form every vantage point. (read more)
Indoor Family Fun at Great Wolf Lodge
Resorts with indoor waterparks are one of the most popular weekend travel destinations for families. These hotels with large indoor waterparks are proven family pleasers, and are packed with features such as waterslides, water basketball courts, water forts, huge tipping water buckets, and more.... (read more)
Mardi Gras For Families
Thinking about heading to Mardi Gras with the family? It's actually a great family travel idea. There are plenty of ways to make fun family vacation memories in New Orleans –- and especially during Mardi Gras season. (read more)
Hunter Mountain - New York City's Closest "Big" Ski Resort
Tri-state families seeking the perfect family ski vacation destination don't have to travel far. Just two hours from New York City, Hunter Mountain is a great family travel choice for family-friendly vacation fun. (read more)
Hyatt Coconut Point: A Tropical Family Escape
Sometimes a tropical family vacation is just what parents and kids have in mind. For family travel convenience, it's sometimes easier on frazzled parents – and the vacation budget – if the destination is just a drive or short direct flight away. For families seeking a tropical getaway, the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point fits the bill perfectly.. (read more)
Hunter Mountain - New York City's Closest "Big" Ski Resort
Tri-state families seeking the perfect family ski vacation destination don't have to travel far. Just two hours from New York City, Hunter Mountain is a great family travel choice for family-friendly vacation fun. (read more)
Vermont Family Vacations at Jay Peak Resort
Northeast ski resorts have always been popular for family vacations. Family travel to Northeast resorts has changed considerably in recent years. One of Vermont's best known ski resorts, Jay Peak, now follows this trend, delivering a completely new family vacation experience for family travelers. (read more)