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...]

Why study abroad: how to help your teen travel

As my children grow and become more experienced travelers, I've been thinking and writing more often about teen travel and study abroad experiences. Last year, our 15-year-old flew solo to Costa Rica to join an Adventures Cross Country trip, which proved to be an enriching, deeply impactful two-week adventure for him. The experience left us wanting more! I recently had the privilege of … [Read more...]

Anxious air traveler tips from experts

Are you an anxious air traveler? There are many people who feel deeply anxious when it comes to traveling - specifically traveling by plane. According to studies held in the USA, 25 percent of the population feel nervous about flying. It’s a real issue for most people, especially those who suffer from fear of heights or claustrophobia. But, there are ways to fight the flying blues and take control … [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...]

15 ways to fill the dog days of summer: late summer getaways and tips

By this part of summer, some families have already begun the school year, and the rest of us are in the last leg of vacation. If you're like us, the planned summer trips are behind you, yet empty days still stretch ahead. How to fill these dog days of summer? We have 15 ideas for late summer getaways, day trips, and pit stops. 1. Check ReserveAmerica for last-minute cancellations at a local … [Read more...]

How to get kids to sleep while traveling (no matter what age)

I'll be honest: we've had some insanely sleep deprived family vacations. We followed every parenting book in the...well, book, but when our kids were babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, they struggled to sleep anywhere, no matter what we did. This torture, of course, followed us on any trip we took. Now that our kids are older, we all sleep better, but there are still nights on the road when we … [Read more...]

Tips for kids flying solo as unaccompanied minors (STEP BY STEP GUIDE)

Once upon a time, the whole family was enjoying a Laguna Beach vacation. The only thing missing: my son Calvin, age 11. We booked him a one-way flight on Alaska Airlines (escorted to the plane by his grandfather). And it was easy! If you've never booked an unaccompanied minor's flight, we'll walk you through the steps for kids flying solo. Step 1: book your minor's flight On Alaska Airlines, … [Read more...]

How to get your kids to sleep in hotel rooms

Vacation time means travel time. And travel time can mean less sleep...for everyone in the family. When we're lucky, we've booked a vacation home, suite, or apartment where everyone can spread out, but there are plenty of times when we all find ourselves in a standard hotel room. But, how to get the kids sleeping in noisy places like hotel rooms? Nine ways to help get your kids sleep in hotel … [Read more...]

How to teach kids the joys of fishing (and plan a fishing trip)

Fishing is an easy and relaxing activity that's easy for children to learn and gets them outside to enjoy nature. If you're interested in learning how to teach your children the joys of fishing, discover some helpful tips and advice for making memories and new experiences for you and your children. Foster an Interest in Fish First Before you take your children out for their first fishing … [Read more...]

Teen travel checklist: Preparing your teen to travel abroad

Last week, our teen departed for three weeks in Italy, without his parents. He traveled with a small group of student ambassadors for a cultural exchange and school program, and while chaperones will be available, they won't be with him 24/7. Because our teen is still under age 18, there are some things he needed us to prepare for him before his trip. Teen travel checklist: Preparing your … [Read more...]