Search Results for: blog eco friendly vacations

Vacations That Pay

I once took a vacation to Northern California, and ended up in a roach-infested hotel room with a leaky faucet. Due to an unexpected flight delay, I couldn’t switch rooms because the property was booked solid (despite the pest problem) and I was the last guest to check in that night (technically it was two in the morning). The rest of the trip pretty much mirrored my dismal lodging experience and I vowed that I would never return to the tiny town… even if I were paid to do so. Most people don’t get handed pre-paid vacations these days; however, … Continue reading →

Dirt Cheap Vacations

With gas prices skyrocketing on a daily basis and airfare hovering near record highs, it would seem that finding a dirt cheap vacation would be next to impossible. Fortunately, that’s not the case if you are willing to get a little dirty to score dirt cheap prices. Working vacations are on the rise, according to travel experts. However, before you get too excited about the super low prices (think: next to nothing) associated with these unique vacation packages, consider that you will not be lounging by a pool for hours on end if you decide to opt for the inexpensive … Continue reading →

Free and Fee Vacations

Attention all you penny-pinching travelers: Uncle Sam wants you to take a vacation on him. During the weekend of August 14-15, more than 100 national parks will be waiving entrance fees so that visitors can enjoy the beauty and splendor of these natural treasures without breaking the bank. In addition, many national park concessionaires will be offering money-saving specials during the weekend, including discounts and coupons for rooms, tours and products. You and your family can take advantage of the free weekend at the following national parks: *Grand Canyon in Arizona *Yosemite in California *Rocky Mountain in Colorado *Volcanoes National … Continue reading →

Disney by the Bay and Other Family-Friendly Travel Attractions

Disney in San Francisco? It’s no joke. Beginning October 1st, you’ll be able to get a taste of Disney by the bay… San Francisco Bay. That’s where The Walt Disney Family Museum will be opening. The new structure, dedicated to all things Disney, will feature 10 galleries focusing on different chapters in the life of founding father Walt Disney, from his early years in Kansas City to his arrival in Hollywood in the 1920s. The museum also spotlights Mickey Mouse’s dad’s technological genius, like synchronizing sound to a cartoon. Other displays include the one-of-a-kind Oscar statuettes awarded to Snow White … Continue reading →

More Ways to Save Money on Luxury Summer Vacations

If you have been putting off taking a family vacation this summer because you simply couldn’t afford to take one, then I have some welcome news. Several luxury hotels are slashing prices on rooms in order to generate business. High-end properties that most of us would ordinarily only read about in magazines are offering attractive summer rates and special package deals to fill rooms. Take a look at some of the swanky lodgings that are trying to make up for a reduction in business travel this summer by offering red hot deals to vacationing families: NANTUCKET If you are looking … Continue reading →

Saving Money on Luxury Summer Vacations

It seems unusual that luxury hotels would be offering bargains this time of year (or at all) given that the folks who frequent ultra-luxe properties probably aren’t pinching pennies the same way most families are. Still, owners of swanky lodgings say to retain business during tough economic times they are not above lowering prices and adding incentives to attract more customers. That’s good news to any traveler looking to score a bargain at a luxurious hotel. If you have always wanted to live like the rich and famous, but couldn’t afford to do so, now’s your chance to go big. … Continue reading →

Volunteer Vacations in Paradise

I’ve written about the growing trend of volunteer vacations (often referred to as voluntourism) in previous blogs, but I’m always taken aback when I learn of yet another package being offered to people who willing give up their time away from the office to help others. If you are one of those generous souls then this next deal is one you might find hard to pass up. The Hanalei Colony Resort located on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai is partnering with Limahuli Garden to offer a package that combines fun and fulfillment. It’s called the Beach & Botany Package and … Continue reading →

More Kid-Friendly Vacation Destinations with Meaning

Easter is just two months away, which means many parents are already making plans for their children’s spring break from school. Do you have your family’s holiday trip finalized yet? If you answered no, perhaps this blog can help. I’m continuing my series of blogs, which focus on kid-friendly vacation destinations across the United States that offer more than just a backdrop for a great family snapshots. Every family wants to have a relaxing enjoyable time while on a break, but vacations are also great opportunities to learn about new cultures and take part in hands-on history lessons, especially if … Continue reading →

Kid-Friendly Vacation Destinations with Meaning

I just received an email from my friend who wanted to brag about (I mean share the good news) that her family’s spring break vacation plans to California are now complete. They don’t depart on their trip for another two months, but she’s delighted nonetheless. I don’t blame her. Planning a cross-country trip for a family of five is no easy task. Her three children will have a blast and I’m sure she and her husband will too. My pal’s email inspired me to write this blog about family vacations. Beyond the thrill of visiting a new city, having fun … Continue reading →

Finding the Perfect Family-Friendly Ski Resort

If you have ever gone skiing with kids under the age of 12 then you know not all ski resorts are created equally. Ski vacations that cater to families with children are a multi-million dollar business, but the problem is some resorts that offer kid-friendly enticements don’t always deliver on the razzle-dazzle. So, what exactly should you expect from a resort that claims it specializes in family skiing? Take a look: Safety First. If it comes down to whether a resort has a multi-million dollar indoor rec area or the resort boasts a superior safety program you can bet I … Continue reading →