Weekend Trips for Family

Archive for the ‘Children’ Category

Weekend Trips for Family

Wednesday, September 27th, 2006

The work week can be incredibly hectic and chaotic for most people. There are weeks that go by that my family and I simply pass each other in the halls and fight for the bathroom. When the weekends arrive, we stare at each other as if we were strangers. We live for weekend trips. My parents own a beach house two hours from my home. That allows for us to take some well deserved weekend trips every so often. My husband and I strive to take at least one weekend a month for a family getaway and every other month we’ll add a weekend trip for just the two of us.

Weekend trips can do wonders for a marriage and for family life. It is a chance to connect with your loved ones while away from home and the everyday stresses that go along with being at home. I don’t think it matters where your weekend trips take you, as long as you are all together. Whether it happens to be an outing to the mountains or the beach, it is quality time that you are spending together. Several times a year, if the finances allow, my husband and I look into some more remote weekend trips. Perhaps we’ll look at a weekend cruise or whirlwind trip to another city. Last year, we decided to leave on a Thursday night and spend the 3 day weekend in Hollywood. Why? Simply because it sounded like fun and was spontaneous.

Could we afford it? Yes, but only because it was one of those last minute weekend trips that airlines and hotels offer excellent discounts on. We certainly aren’t a family that is made of money but more often than not we find weekend trips that we can afford simply because they are great bargains. That doesn’t mean that everyone should wait until the last moment to plan a weekend escape. However, sometimes weekend trips can turn out to be a real bargain if you do decide until the last moment to travel.

Some of the best weekend trips and getaways can be to someplace in your own city. Pick a fancy bed and breakfast you’ve always admired and spend one or two nights there. Camp out at a local campground if you love the outdoors. You don’t have to travel very far from home to enjoy being with your friends or family. There are times when you want to be out of your house but just don’t want to travel very far. With the gas prices nowadays, local weekend trips make the most sense. Every once in a while, you just may discover something that you’ve never noticed before. It’s even better if you discover that with your loved ones.

Posted in Advice, Budget Travel, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, Short Vacation, Travel, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Review, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

The Best California Bed Breakfast

Tuesday, September 5th, 2006

The many wonderful things about a good California bed breakfast are homemade biscuits at breakfast, which are, yes, served in the room; the fresh bedding; the special guest dinners; the perks and amenities. But what I find most impressive in not only the California bed breakfast experience but the bed and breakfast experience in general is the theme room/hotel. Maybe you have a penchant for nature. Maybe you are a history buff. Or maybe you have a fetish for a particular travel destination or have a thing for art. Whatever the desire or need, you can indulge in a weekend fantasy at a themed California bed breakfast.

CALIFORNIA BED BREAKFAST THEME HOTELS/INNS

For example, the following are just some of the possible fantasy weekend packages offered:

At the Churchill Manor Bed and Breakfast in Napa Valley, you can experience the plantation in the Gone with the Wind rooms in the old southern Colonial home.

The Gone with the Wind theme is also delightful at Plantation Bed and Breakfast in Lemon Grove, and

At The Union Hotel and Victorian Mansion, in Los Almos, you might enjoy the Victorian age in the manse or indulge in the fantasy of the 1950s, the gypsy life, Roman antiquity, Egyptian royalty, French history, or Pirate swashbuckling.

At Leucadia Inn in Encinitas, besides having subtly placed microwave and other modern amenities, you can have the dream of your choice come true in a Tropical setting, in the Hollywood Nostalgia room, on an African Safari, or by way of the decor that takes you to Nantucket, Calypso (style), or New Orleans.

The Splash Spa in Los Angeles has the infamous cave, the Monte Carlo, and the Jungle Room, as well as rooms ala the Mediterranean, Barcelona, and Japan. But note that this California bed breakfast is not really a b&b but an hourly place to stay for a quickie or short rest (and, of course, spa treatment).

And the wilder, more natural, and appropriately, more western urges can be satisfied at such places as The Featherbed Railroad Company, where you and yours can get loose with Mint Julep (rooms), engage in the romance of Casablanca, go alternative in the Easy Rider or La Loose, relive (so to speak) the mystery of The Orient Express, or go right back to the heart of The Wild, Wild West.

California bed breakfast experiences, then, take you where you want to go or need to be, whether it is to re-experience your teen years in a Rockin 50′s Suite, with the bed that is fashioned out of a 1959 Cadillac; to play nouveau riche in a five-star Garden Theme room, in The English Rose, the Apricot Blossom Suite, or the Forget Me Not room; or exact the life of a writer in a cottage or a tortured one with James Dean angst in the Rebel Room.

With the California bed breakfast, you can appreciate the amenities, can be coddled by old world cuisine and courtesy and charm of the caretakers, and can find appeal in anything from the attractive views, the ambience, or the general atmosphere. But further, with the themed California bed breakfast, you come away with a memory of having gone back in time, gone forward in time, and having gone into the lives and spirit of another be it Elvis or Scarlet Hara, an astronaut or a Neanderthal or a thug.

Posted in Advice, Bed and Breakfast, Budget Travel, California, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, Short Vacation, Spring Break, Summer Trip, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Homes, Vacation Packages, Vacation Rental, Vacation Review, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

Great Weekend Breaks for Family

Friday, August 25th, 2006

How are you spending your weekends? For most people, weekends are often spent as time to recoup from the stress of the workweek, and as time for families to spend catching up with each other. They are content to stay home and relax. There may come a time, however, when even that is not enough, and you want to get away. Two days may not seem like a lot, but even short weekend breaks can do your peace of mind a world of good.

Weekend breaks don’t have to be complicated; they just have to be relaxing. Some people pack up on Friday night and return home on Sunday evening, refreshed and renewed. In the summer months, you have more options for this, but there are weekend activities you can do in the winter as well. Weekend breaks are what you make of them, and when you go may be determined on what you like to do to relax.

Weekend breaks in the summer can be anything you like. You may not be able to jet off to Paris for a romantic weekend, but you can find a hotel room nearby. This will give you a chance to forget about housework, or deadlines, and will allow you to completely relax. You don’t have to worry about anything because there is someone to cook and clean, and you don’t have to lift a finger. Sounds like heaven to me!

You may also want to pack up the family for a camping trip. Don’t make it too complicated, or you may return more worn out than when you left. Keep it simple, and make sure you leave plenty of time to just relax once you arrive. You can do things like fishing, hiking, boating, or just enjoy nature. This is something my family does at least once a year to recharge our batteries.

In the winter months, you can go for skiing or snowboarding. Many ski resorts offer specials for weekend breaks because they know this is when most families can get away. They have special packages just for beginners and the seasoned skiers alike. In most cases, you can rent everything you need right there at the resort, and your accommodations are onsite or nearby.

For romantic weekend breaks, you might want to consider a cozy bed and breakfast in a nearby location. You can often find these in places you never considered, and chances are, there are some within an hour drive from your home that will do the trick. These tend to be a bit more romantic than a hotel, and the personalized service may leave you feeling pampered and relaxed. It’s great!

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Taking London Sightseeing Tours

Tuesday, August 22nd, 2006

Have you ever want to travel the world. Dump the job and just take off on a never-ending journey. See new places and try new things all the time. Of course you can’t literally do this unless you’re independently wealthy or have recently won the lottery. Nevertheless, it does sound rather ideal to most of us. On the other hand, you could save a little dough and take a trip or two once in a while. This is completely feasible, and is actually what most of us do. Since we all don’t have a fat bank account like Paris Hilton, we simply have to budget and plan. I know one of the getaways I’m planning for involves Europe. I’m talking about London sightseeing tours. Doesn’t that sound like a blast?

Have you ever considered London sightseeing tours? This is a great way to get away from your everyday setting and check out something new and exciting. With London sightseeing tours you can not only get out of the states for a bit, but you can learn a great deal about landmarks and culture. Take a close-up gander at all London, England has to offer. You’ll never guess what got me interested in London sightseeing tours.

However, I’ll tell you anyway. It was the very first serial killer in recorded history. You know, the one who had a grudge against the ladies of the night; therefore he hunted them down and butchered them like a mad man. You guessed it; Jack the Ripper. Now please don’t tell me that this never peaked your interest. Although it is a grisly part of London’s history, I find it intriguing to say the least.

Are you considering London sightseeing tours for your next big adventure? Hey, let me give you a small piece of advice. The best place to begin your trip is at home. I’m referring to your personal computer. If you have Internet access, you can easily hop online and start sorting through a number of excellent package deals and specials regarding London sightseeing tours and much more. I don’t care where you’re headed, the Internet can lend a hand. Find the best roundtrip airfare deals and book that perfect room at a low cost. With contemporary London sightseeing tours, you can have it all. Hop on Google and see what I mean.

Posted in Adventure Travel, Advice, Budget Travel, Cheap Travel, Children, England, Holiday, Information, Short Vacation, Spring Break, Summer Trip, Tours, Travel, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

Things to Do on Canada Vacations

Monday, August 21st, 2006

Canada vacations are some of the most satisfying getaway solutions. With the summer heat the way it is in some of our towns, a cooler, or freezing winter in Canada is actually inviting. With half the world at war, the politically free and socially indifferent Canadians seem like a welcome community. And with the fascinating history, locations, events, and activities available in the deep north, Canada vacations give promise to otherwise droll weeks of work.

Where could you plan to visit on Canada vacations?

Wow. So many locations to cover in this the second largest country in the world–from Alberta to Quebec to Ontario to BC (British Columbia). Add Manitoba, Vancouver Island, and Newfoundland (not Canada, but nearby). Then consider specific tourist attractions as the awesome Niagara Falls, the stunning Banff National Park, and the equally majestic Jasper National Park.

What can you do and see during your Canada vacations?

Go hiking, waterskiing, sporting, then try the wilder regions where hunting and fishing draw hundreds of professional and casual sportsmen. Catch a hockey game with the Edmonton Oilers five-time Stanley cup champions. Try the French-Canadian cuisine, the maple syrup, the galumpies (what my Mom calls them, anyway) and the gallettes.

And none of this is appealing to you yet, consider getting involved somehow in all that Canada vacations have behind them great people, natural entities, and a rich history (free of international strife!). That is, think about some of the vital info, found on Canada vacations sites in the trivia categories though by no means is this info all that trivial:

Go check out the CN Tower, which is 553.33 meters high.

Take the challenge to scale the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson, in British Columbia.

Go kayaking, boating, or whitewater rafting down the longest river in Canada, the Mackenzie, which starts in the Northwest Territories and ends up at the Hudson Bay.

Visit the big cities in Quebec; buy art from the locals or the Inuits; take in a culture fair or festival with the Canadians who live up to their country s name, Canada, or Kanata, village, or indulge in some of the hottest clubs and hot spots.

In fact, don’t forget, such brilliant comics as Mike Myers, Caroline Rhea, Tom Green, Dave Foley, Jim Carrey, John Candy, Phil Hartman, Dan Akroyd, Tommy Chong, and Martin Short all hailed from Canada, so your Canada vacations, should they for some ungodly reason be lacking, could include a visit to a local comedy club! No visitors should miss it.

Posted in Adventure Travel, Advice, Budget Travel, Canada, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, Nature Preserve, Short Vacation, Spring Break, Summer Trip, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Packages, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

Planning to Spend Time On Beach Vacations

Friday, August 18th, 2006

Everyone likes going on vacations. There are so many fun and exciting destinations to go on vacations. For me a great part of going on vacation is planning the trip. I love to plan where we are going, where to stay and what to see once we have arrived. With all the planning and sight seeing I usually return from vacation in need of a rest. I did not realize how relaxing vacation time can be until we started taking beach vacations.

We had been married several years before we considered beach vacations. We had been to the beach during vacation, but this is different. We had also been to Mexico and had stayed on the water front, but we had included deep sea fishing, horse back riding and sight seeing in our trip. One day our nephew called and asked if we would be interested in sharing a rental home on the Outer Banks. The house could accommodate 5 couples. Each couple would have their own bathroom and deck area and the house was located one block off the beach. We thought that this sounded like fun so we agreed to go. When we started our week we realized that this is how beach vacations are suppose to be.

The house was beautiful and the beach was great. At low tide you could walk for miles and miles and pick up shells. My husband rented equipment and learned how to surf fish. This involved throwing out a line and sitting in a chair to see if you caught anything. We bought some groceries so we could cook if we felt like it and there were close restaurants that we could go to if we did not feel like cooking. In the evenings we played cards, walked the beach and sat out on the decks and listened to music. This was the most relaxing week I had ever spent. On our last night I mentioned that this was the first of many beach vacations that we would be taking. One of the other couples mentioned that they used to do all the sight seeing and other activities on their vacations, but they found that they needed to have time when they just sat and rejuvenated also.

Since this time we have taken many beach vacations as well as sightseeing vacations. We found that if we can plan two weeks a year to do something special we are more apt to allow ourselves to relax one of the weeks. I am hoping that as time and money allows we will be able to increase the amount of time that we spend on our beach vacations. I would love to spend a month each year resting and walking on the beach. Nothing can be more relaxing then walking along the beach with your partner.

Posted in Advice, Beach, Budget Travel, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, Rental, Short Vacation, Spring Break, Summer Trip, Travel, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Rental | No Comments »

Cheap Beach Vacation Rentals For Summer

Wednesday, August 16th, 2006

How is your summer? Many of us want to strive for that tone body and tan. We want to look great in our bathing suits. The destination of choice is usually the beach. Although a weekend of fun in the sun can be a relaxing experience, many of us prefer a longer stay. Those crashing waves and warm sand are hard to turn away from. The sun calls to us whether we like it or not. Luckily there are options other than the standard hotel room. Beach vacation rentals are an ideal place to spend your summer.

If you’ve ever took that family vacation to the coast, you probably have memories of a basic hotel room, which if you’re lucky, was ocean front. You stared out at the serene waterfront from your balcony. It was an experience that probably lasted for a couple days. This is likely due to funding. You may have the vacation time, but the hotel rooms can get pricey. With beach vacation rentals, you can plan your entire summer at the beach. It’s actually like having a home away from home. No more renting a hotel room far in advance to ensure you’re close to the shore. Check into beach vacation rentals for a more reasonable stay.

The Internet provides us with a wide selection of websites, which offer many great deals on beach vacation rentals. No matter what your price range is, you can certainly find something that’s right for you. Surf the packages and locate that ideal place to lodge. It beats finding that last minute hotel room. You can reserve beach vacation rentals in advance so you know it’s waiting for you when the sun creeps out and the temperature rises.

When I was a kid, we always took that family vacation to the beach. I recall one summer when I met a couple of kids while roaming the shops. They were dark tan and certainly seemed in their element. After getting to know them a little, I discovered that they had been staying there for weeks. I was a little baffled by this, especially when they claimed that they didn’t live there. It turned out they were there for the entire summer and living in a beach vacation rental.

Wow, I was jealous. Why didn’t my parents ever consider this? We sure liked coming to the beach, and always wanted to stay longer. Beach vacation rentals were the answer to our problem. These days with the Internet on your side, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a fun, and affordable summer at the beach. It doesn’t need to cost alot and you get to enjoy long holiday under the sun at the beach. Why not?

Posted in Advice, Beach, Budget Travel, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, Rental, Short Vacation, Summer Trip, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Packages, Vacation Rental, Vacation Review, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

Considerations for Beach Vacation Rentals

Sunday, August 6th, 2006

On a dreary Saturday in February I was feeling quite depressed due to the cold, wet weather. We had decided not to take a winter vacation and waiting for our June vacation seemed like a long time. I thought maybe it would help my mood to do some planning for the summer trip. We had not made any solid plans of where we wanted to go so I started looking into beach vacation rentals.

My husband had been working very hard so his only criteria for a destination was that it be away from his office. As I started looking at beach vacation rentals I found that there were many possibilities to choose from. We had done a beach home rental in the past with a group of friends and found that it was an inexpensive way to spend time on the beach. By going with beach vacation rentals you usually rent an entire home, apartment or condo so you can cook your meals; which decreases the cost of eating out for every meal. You can also share the rental fees with others if you rent accommodations that have multiple bedrooms.

In looking at the possibilities with the beach vacation rentals I discovered that there were a wide range of prices depending on the geographical location as well as the size of the accommodations. The beach vacation rentals that were the most expensive were the ones that were located directly on the beach. If you are willing to be located within walking distance the price drops considerably. The main thing to consider when locating beach vacation rentals that are off the water is where the public access is to the beach area. For many resort areas this is not an issue, however if you are renting in an area of private homes it may be difficult to access the beach.

Several of the beach vacation rentals I was considering were private homes. One was available for two weeks for a very reasonable rate. I contacted the owner and found out that they were going to be out of town for the two weeks that they were renting their home. The home was located directly on the beach and included full access to two bedrooms, two bathrooms an outdoor hot tub and the kitchen and living room areas of the home. The catch was they were leaving their dog so the renters would be responsible for feeding and exercising the dog daily. We like dogs so this seemed like a great way to have a longer vacation for a reasonable rate.

It is important to be clear when doing beach vacation rentals with private owners on what areas of the home are accessible and what the expectations are for cleaning. This couple had a written contract that was very detailed and provided contact information in case of emergencies. We are looking forward to our two weeks on the beach. Learning how to find cheap and excellent home to rent isn’t difficult. Just do your research online.

Posted in Advice, Beach, Budget Travel, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, Rental, Spring Break, Summer Trip, Travel, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Homes, Vacation Rental, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

Romantic San Diego Vacation

Wednesday, August 2nd, 2006

Going to California for a vacation? Then you should really consider the San Diego area. There is multitude of activities and sights to see; you probably won’t have enough time to do it all! To make your San Diego vacation is one to remember, be sure to start plenty ahead of time. It’s possible to purchase tickets online for such attractions as Sea World and the San Diego Zoo, which are usually available at a discount when purchasing in advance. There is something for everyone, depending on what you have in mind. Torrey Pines State Park offers room to run with viewing of wild rare birds and a stately abundance of pine trees, which of course, gives the historic park its name.

With such a wide variety of activities, events, restaurants, and lodging, you can plan your trip on a budget or spend lavishly, whichever you prefer. Such historic sites as the Hotel del Coronado, offer upscale shopping, dining, and informative tours as well as fine overnight accommodations. Many festive occasions take place at this ocean side historic landmark; grand weddings being the most popular. There are many family friendly activities also available, such as bike rentals, swimming, and sand toys to rent. This grand old hotel is also rumored to be haunted, something for those who enjoy the paranormal!

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most popular attractions. It is considered to be America’s best, and one of the most famous zoos also, with many of the rarest animals on display. According to Frommer’s, a well respected travel publication, the zoo serves as residence to over 4,000 different creatures and is operated by the Zoological Society of San Diego. Plan on spending a whole day and then some meandering through the many paved walkways of the park, or you can take the popular tramway for a wonder aerial overview. There can sometimes be a wait for some of the zoos newest and most popular exhibits, but all well worth it! Bring your camera and take lots of pictures, the animals love the attention!

Another must see attraction is Sea World, home of Shamu and as of December, 2004, Baby Shamu, the killer whales. These spectacular creatures put on shows daily exhibiting their unique relationships and many talents. Watch out for the big splash if you’re sitting in the front rows! Brrrrr! When the killer whales make their dives, they splash chilly 55 degree salt water on the closest fans; an exciting, wet experience!

Where ever you stay, or what attractions you see, you won’t be disappointed by the over abundance of things to do or experience in San Diego. Fine dining on the wharf, or shopping in Gaslamp Quarter, the possibilities are endless. Bring the kids or leave them with the grandparents for a romantic trip for two, you can’t go wrong! Either way, you will get to enjoy a unique San Diego vacation.

Posted in Advice, Budget Travel, California, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, Nature Preserve, San Diego, Short Vacation, Spring Break, Summer Trip, Travel, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Packages, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

Visiting New York City: Vacation Preparation

Tuesday, August 1st, 2006

Everyone has a list of places we most wanted to visit in our life. I am pretty sure many of you are interested in visiting New York City. Why is this? Okay, we’re all just fascinated with the city that never sleeps. There is something there for pretty much anyone. Whether you like the museums, the theater, or just want to get a glimpse of Lady Liberty, you can do it all in New York City.

If you plan on visiting New York City, then you’ve probably already made a schedule of things to do. Before popping in and getting a room at the first hotel with a vacancy, try surfing the web. Lodging galore can be found online. The first time I took advantage of this new-age concept, I was hooked. Prices are considerably reduced. Why pay a ton for an okay room, when you can find a nice one for half the price? If you research ahead of time, you can find tremendous specials that will save you hundreds of dollars on your lodging. Airline tickets are no exception. Check out the prices online. You can search and compare to find the absolute best deals on flights to any destination. The key is starting early.

Visiting New York City can be a blast at any age. Whether you’re young or old, there’s something new to be discovered. Manhattan offers a variety of shops and tourist attractions like Planet Hollywood and the Hard Rock Cafe. The nightlife in New York City is also a hit. They don’t call this the city that never sleeps for nothing. The cultures and diversity are prime characteristics of life in New York City. No matter who you are or where you’re from, you’ll fit in fine there.

While frolicking in the Big Apple can be a dream come true, there are certain cautions to take before visiting New York City. This grand epitome of urban life, offers an unforgettable experience, but can also turn ugly if you don’t know where you’re going. Before visiting New York City, do some checking with friends and family on the good areas and bad. The Internet provides wonderful guidance concerning places to visit, and places to avoid. Although the crowded streets and towering buildings can be welcoming, always be cautious when traveling. Visiting New York City is a must for anyone who has not taken the plunge. Whether you’re single or have a family, you can make an exciting vacation out of visiting New York City. I am sure your children will enjoy New York City as much as you will.

Posted in Advice, Budget Travel, Cheap Travel, Children, Family Vacation, Holiday, Information, New York City, Short Vacation, Spring Break, Summer Trip, Travel, Vacation, Vacation Destination, Vacation Packages, Vacation Review, Vacation Suggestion | No Comments »

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