A family vacation is the perfect way to connect with your kids and make memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a time for the whole family to take a break from work, school and other day-to-day commitments. It can also be an opportunity to introduce the kids to new experiences and cultures. From riding a gondola in Venice to dancing with the Massai, there are endless ways for parents and children to make lasting connections.
Whether it’s an all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic or a snow-covered ski vacation in Austria, family travel can be the ideal way for families to enjoy their time away together. At the Hyatt’s all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, for example, kids can get their own taste of luxury with a special Kids Club where they can take part in activities like treetop yoga or cooking classes. Meanwhile, the adults can escape for a moment of Zen with relaxing massages or a dip in one of the many pools and jacuzzis.
There are plenty of other all-inclusive family vacations to choose from. In South America, Argentina’s stunning waterfalls and glaciers offer a natural wonderland for exploration. Walkways at Iguazu National Park allow for grandstand views of the cascading falls, including the mighty Devil’s Throat. Or, head to Los Glaciares National Park for a tour of Perito Moreno or a visit to a penguin colony.
Other popular destinations for all-inclusive family vacations include the tropical paradise of the Cook Islands, which is only a short overnight flight from California’s West Coast. The lush lagoons and coral reefs of the Cook Islands are the perfect place to go snorkeling or kayaking with a view of the mountains as your backdrop. The island of Rarotonga is home to a number of hotels that cater to families with kid-friendly beaches, water parks and a range of family-friendly activities.
Similarly, the famous beach town of Hilton Head, South Carolina is a great place for family vacations that offer an abundance of recreational activities to keep everyone busy. Guests of all ages can kick back and relax on the miles of beaches, with options that include Driessen Beach Park and Coligny Beach. Alternatively, the resort’s golf courses and tennis courts provide plenty of ways to stay active on vacation.
The most important thing when planning a family vacation is to find a destination that appeals to all members of the family. It’s also a good idea to consider organized tours that allow the kids to meet other children with similar interests and make new friends while still being supervised by an experienced team leader. These types of trips can be particularly effective for language learners, as they immerse the kids in environments rich with culture, cuisine and history that aren’t easily accessible to the average family at home.
Don’t have the budget for a big trip this year? No problem – you can still have the perfect family vacation at home. Transform your backyard into a getaway and treat the staycation as if it were a real vacation. Turn off your work email notifications, relax chores and screen time restrictions for the kids and make it a week of fun.