Perfect Life

Planning a vacation when you’re a family with young children can be stressful and difficult, starting with the destination. If you have older kids in addition to wee ones, it gets even more complicated. You might think it’s impossible to choose a vacation that suits everyone, but never fear! We have a list of 10 great travel destinations for families chosen because there’s a little something for everyone. The trick is to think outside the box – the big-name travel destinations can be a lot to manage, especially with a fractious toddler or pouty pre-teen. Non- holiday periods or vacationing in the off-season can not only save you money, but save you the frustration level of fighting crowds, which might be worth more than the money saved.

Try these travel destinations for families for more fun than frustration:

Smuggler’s Notch – Jeffersonville, Vermont: From teen programs to babysitting services and children’s lessons, this ski resort has all the bases covered. Voted the #1 family resort by Ski Resort Magazine.

Deer Valley Resorts – Park City, Utah: Another great location for a winter vacation on the other side of the country and #1 resort, Deer Valley Resorts also accommodates families with children from a wide range of ages.

Assateague Island National Seashore – Chincoteague, Virginia: The family will totally enjoy the wild horses and miles of beach on this fabulous vacation on the shore of the Atlantic.

To help first time cruisers, I have a list of items you need to focus on your cruise. It happened to me – I was zealous for my first cruise, but it has everything I bring. The list is as follows:

• Keep your travel budget papers in a folder. This includes your passport and visa, your ticket or e-mail verification of your cruise documents, immunization records and a health certificate.

• Of course, you need cash, credit cards, ATM and travelers checks.

• Bring your driver’s license and two assists. The latter could also be useful in some cases.

• If you’ve read just before going to sleep love, bring a book or something to read. Bring a book, does not mean that you read everything on board. You obviously do not intend to do so, except for some. However, it can also always take care while lounging on the deck and enjoy the sea air.

• Make travel guides, maps and a bilingual dictionary. A pen and notebook will also be useful. You can write your cruise experience.

• Casual clothes are allowed, but have some formal wear too. Do 2 sets of swimsuits, while the other can be dry. You need a bathrobe, too.

• Prepare your personal accessories such as glasses (reading glasses and sunglasses) and contact lens care products, hats, scarves, etc.