Travel
From
big cities to mountain getaways, you'll find a host of interesting places to
visit. You may not have heard of all of them, yet each holds its own
appeal to someone, somewhere. From skiing, hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, to museums and spas, we explore many types of activities.
What we don't cover are cruises and group tours. Some people enjoy traveling with strangers in a regimented environment. We don't. There are other websites that cover that sort of thing.
Hotels, Motels, B&Bs, Etc.
Where to stay depends on a number of things, including the activities you plan to do, and whether you're traveling with children or others who have special needs. For instance, many Bed & Breakfasts don't allow young children, and if stairs are a problem for someone in your party, you're probably better off elsewhere.
If your activities require the use of a car, make sure there is parking nearby, if not on-premises. This can be an issue in shore communities, especially in season.
Finally, depending upon your destination, a motel may be your best (or only) option. Even the large chains nowadays tend to offer free breakfast and wireless, for those who wish to check email, confirm return flight reservations, keep an online travel log, or simply surf while they're away. If you'll be spending your days doing outdoor activities, it may not matter that there's no day spa on site.
Eats
Meals aren't necessarily something to be
planned in advance, but should be taken into consideration. If that wonderful place in the mountains or lake cabin for rent has a full kitchen, it's probably a tip-off that restaurants aren't exactly within walking distance, and you may want to find out about grocery store proximity before booking, and/or bring your own cooler full of food.
Some B&Bs serve only breakfast, but generally make beverages available at other times. If an afternoon snack is made available, it can range from cookies and lemonade to a self-serve high tea.
Dinner reservations may be required at some establishments. If no reservations are required, you most likely will not have to dress up, but if they are, check to see whether a jacket and tie are required.
Chillin'
Activities should be considered before leaving home. Often, this is part of planning the destination -- one doesn't normally find famous art museums out in the country -- but back up plans are often overlooked.
A rainy day at the shore is no fun, but if the hotel or motel has an indoor pool, the kids may not care. Some resorts schedule activities for children that leave the adults free to do what they want for at least a few hours.
Finally, plan some activities that everyone in your party can enjoy. Children probably will not appreciate being dragged through the Prado, but they might enjoy a science or railroad museum.
If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the precipitate.
Finally, pack appropriately. There's no need to bring a lot of extra gear "just in case," if you're traveling by air. Baggage fees add up quickly for a family. On the other hand, if you're driving, it's of less consequence if you overpack. Remember, a vacation is supposed to be just that. If it's too much of a hassle, why bother?
Most of all, enjoy yourself.
Bon voyage!
