How to get through a guided tour with kids

Are you struggling with ideas for your family vacation this summer? Why not do something different this year and visit one of Americas most famous cultural landmarks, such as going on a tour in New Orleans or San Francisco? We are big fans of guided tours; we would have been lost in destinations such as Pompeii and Paris (and even Gettysburg and San Francisco) without someone explaining what we … [Read more...]

Hiking to AMC huts: how to plan your Appalachian Mountain Club adventure

After our East Coast Pit Stops for Kids family tried out Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)'s Highland Center Lodge during a winter break, they knew they had to come back for a summer stay, hiking to AMC huts! What are AMC huts? They're a network of hike-in lodges operated by Appalachian Mountain Club. Hikers can depart for huts from trailheads, or from the Highland Center Lodge. We sent our … [Read more...]

Golf vacations with kids: tips for a great resort golf experience

Our kids like to golf, but they're hardly miniature pros. They're kids, and they want to have fun on the links. We want them to have fun, too, but also appreciate that other guests may want to enjoy the course without distractions or delays. It's easy to get stressed when on golf vacations with kids, which is why we've compiled the following tips for a great golf resort experience: 1. Pick … [Read more...]

How to get the most from your golfing getaway

Once upon a time, it would be fair to say that the golfing getaway was almost going out of fashion. Sure, they've always had the excitement factor (for those who are obviously into golf), but they often came with extortionate costs. If you pick the wrong area of the world, at the wrong time, these costs can still exist. However, there's no doubt that golfing holidays are becoming more … [Read more...]

Tips for booking airfare

With airfare at a new low, now is the time to book that last minute trip! Here's what you need to know, with all our top tips for booking airfare:   Use the 24-hour cancellation rule. After booking, check the fare the next morning. If it’s gone down, take advantage of most airlines’ 24-hour cancellation rule and cancel and rebook the flight. Book on a Tuesday; leave on a … [Read more...]

How to save on accommodations for your next family vacation

Getting ready to plan your holiday travels? Early planners can reap the benefits of early bird specials, deals, and savings, making family vacations more affordable. Here's how to save on accommodations for your next family vacation: Think long-term: Instead of chasing last-minute deals, parents planning ahead have time to earn loyalty rewards. Start here, with a comparison of hotel loyalty … [Read more...]

Riding Amtrak: how and when to enjoy an affordable rail trip with kids

I love rail travel: I find a train journey to be restful, peaceful, and productive for a work-from-the-road type like myself. My kids enjoy it as well: they appreciate the mobility afforded (compared to air travel), the extra leg room, and the fun dining and panoramic cars. However, train travel today is not always the economical choice it was just a few decades ago. Price a multi-day rail journey … [Read more...]

Travel Tip: Is a travel insurance annual plan right for your family?

Two years ago, just before a trip of a lifetime to Paris and Brussels, we learned of the very unfortunate attack on a Paris nightclub, which of course triggered an extended search across country lines...the exact country lines we planned to cross ourselves on our Christmas holiday. We didn't cancel our European trip, but we did have to reroute one leg, due to airport closures. As I canceled train … [Read more...]

Tips for planning a family reunion

Planning a family reunion can take as much effort and attention to detail as planning a small wedding. Bringing far-flung family members together in a way that’s both convenient and fun for everyone is possible, however, if you know when to start, where to look for lodging, and what to plan to ensure success. Use the following family reunion planning hacks to become the hero of your next family … [Read more...]

A Boston 4th of July: Tips for Celebrating on the Esplanade

All people want to spend the Fourth of July in special fashion. If you’ve never been to Boston, heading there in the beginning of July is as good a time as any. Below, you’ll find tips regarding how to spend it right during the Esplanade celebration. Weather: New England weather is fickle, and natives know weather patterns change on a dime. In July, temperatures can range from the 60s and … [Read more...]