Legoland amusement parks can be found in 4 countries: Denmark (home of Legos), USA, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

In the US, Legoland can be found in Carlsbad, California.  Located about 30 miles outside San Diego, California, Legoland is a unique type of amusement park. There are more than 50 rides, an aquarium, and shows and attractions to interest the entire family. Spread out over 128 acres, there is plenty to do here including a 50 foot high dual slides in an Egyptian bazaar-themed setting, a 4-D Bob the Builder movie, and the Xbox Family Gamespace, just to name a few of them.

This park is great for younger children who might not be tall enough for the rides at traditional theme parks more geared to older children and teens. Just walking around is fun too as you spy the various objects created out of millions of Legos. Of course, your kids will be running from here and there to ride the rides and play with everything the Park has to offer. Be sure to have a good night’s sleep before your visit here because Legoland is 100% active fun!

Lodging Near the Park

There are hotels located close to the Park. The Grand Pacific Palisades is considered by some to be the best coastal family resort in North San Diego.  Overlooking the ocean, this resort is located adjacent to LEGOLAND with a pedestrian guest entrance. The Grand Pacific has everything to help make your family vacation easy.  Guests can enjoy the resort’s new children’s interactive water park and heated family pool, activity center with table tennis and video games room, Olympic-sized pool, three spas, and a fully-equipped fitness center. Dining is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner onsite at their restaurant, the Karl Strauss Brewery and Restaurant.

Tip: Rooms come equipped with dvd players and audio systems. So feel free to bring along your child’s favorite movie or music. Also, children under 18 can sleep in same room for free and use of a roll-away bed is no charge. Be sure to check with the hotel to confirm this and check for availability when making your reservations.

Another hotel is the spectacular Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa. This coastal hotel is located adjacent to LEGOLAND and offers a private entrance to the park. There will be no waiting in line here! It also is just minutes from the beautiful Carlsbad State beaches and golfing.

Tip: Discount tickets to Legoland are available from the concierge. Kids under 18 can stay for free if using the existing bedding.

Certainly if you have kids, a family vacation where imagination, exciting rides and shows, and hands-on activities can be found in one spot is worth a visit. Legoland as a destination will delight both your children and the child in you.

Some Tips

• It’s best to allow a full day to see and enjoy all that this park has to offer.

• If you are a member of AAA, be sure to bring your membership card to receive a discount on admission.

• Check www.legoland.com for more information regarding the Park’s operating hours to ensure that they will be open when you are planning your trip. They are sometimes closed during the week on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

• Every Saturday night in October between 5 – 9 pm, Legoland in the US hosts Brick or Treat parties. They also have other seasonal events, so be sure to check the website for more details when making your family vacation plans.

There are several places that you will probably want to visit while in Egypt. We’ll give you a brief overview of a few of them to help you in your vacation planning.

Camel Ride

Fewer experiences while in Egypt will be more memorable than a ride on a camel through the desert. Did you know that camels can live between 40 to 50 years and when fully grown, they can be up to 1.85 meters (6.1 feet) tall? It might seem a bit contrived, but the desert and camels go together in many people’s minds.

There are numerous places where you can find the opportunity to ride a camel. To make sure that you are using someone who is reputable, ask your hotel or travel agent for some recommendations.

Giza

You’ll want to spend a day or two here so that you can see and tour the various pyramids of Cheops (also called the Great Pyramid of Giza) and Khafre, including The Great Sphinx. Challenge your family to the riddle of the Sphinx. Do you remember it? What goes on four legs in the morning, on two legs in the afternoon, and on three legs in the evening? (*Answer at the end of this article.)

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient world that still remains primarily intact, despite the passage of thousands of years. Once you stand before it, you will surely marvel at how mere men were able to move such massive stones and construct what was the tallest man-made structure in the world for close to 4,000 years. The Great Pyramid covers over 13 acres of land and stands 481 feet high.

Not far from the Great Pyramid sits the one built for Khafre, who succeeded Khufu and is thought to have overseen the construction of the Sphinx. There are several other structures in this area known as the Giza Complex that you can also visit to learn more about what the Egyptians thought happened after death and the tombs they constructed for their royalty during the Old Kingdom.

Cairo

This capitol and largest city of Egypt lies on the eastern banks of the Nile River and is bustling with so much life . You will probably fly in here from your home country.It can be difficult to get around the city because of traffic, so it’s advisable to hire a driver or arrange for a tour guide.

Cairo has many places you’ll want to check out including the various pyramids, bazaar markets (some of which have a history going back close to 600 years), the Citadel of Saladin, and the Egyptian Museum. During the day, it’s best to visit the first two

Cairo is also a great place to stay to possibly see the the pyramids in nearby Giza right from your room. There are several hotels in varying price ranges – some of the more highly rated ones include the Havana Hotel, Staybridge Suites Cairo-Citystars, and Four Seasons Hotel Cairo.

Luxor

Known as ancient Thebes, Luxor is home to the famous Valley of the Kings and is divided into the East Bank and West Bank by the Nile River. For 500 years, tombs were constructed in this valley for pharaoh kings and other noblemen. You will be able to see the Luxor Temple that was constructed during the New Kingdom. But it should be noted that there is just one pyramid that may be toured here. However, don’t let that turn you off for a family visit. Many of the pharaoh kings that your children have probably heard of or studied are buried in the necropolis here including: Amenhotep III, Ay, and the most famous King Tutankhamun. Be sure to stop by the recently built tourist center for lots of information on the area.

There are numerous hotels in this area and you might be able to find a very attractive room rate by planning your visit during the low season, which is summer.

Tip: Luxor is especially prone to pushy sales people who will try to sell you things and get you to stay at their hotel, visit their restaurant, or book with their tour company. Be wary of such people as they usually aren’t who they say they are and get a commission for driving business to whoever has hired them to hustle the tourists. Your family will have less hassle and more fun by pre-booking hotel accommodations and tours with an established agency prior to leaving your home country.

The Nile River

Most people who live in Egypt live not far from the banks of the Nile River. The annual flooding that takes place here, bringing fertility back to the soil and sustaining harvests each year, is known as the “gift of the Nile”. In fact, the Nile played such a significant role in the life of the ancient Egyptians that they created a god dedicated to preserving the annual flooding – Hapy. It was believed that Hapy assisted the pharaoh in controlling the flooding, and thus, Egypt’s yearly prosperity.

The Nile was also considered the way from life to death and the afterlife. As you might recall, the sun god Ra was thought to undergo a daily birth, death, and resurrection each time he crossed the sky. So the Egyptians considered the west a place of death. This is why all the tombs were located west of the Nile River. They believed that in order to enter into the afterlife, one must be buried on the side of the Nile that symbolized death to them.

Note: Egypt is a Muslim country and one of the most sacred holidays is Ramadan. It usually falls in mid to late August and lasts for a month. You will want to be mindful of this if your visit will take place during this time as shops close earlier, public transportation is less frequent, and the usual hectic pace of city life is much slower.

Travel Tips

• You will most likely be accosted at some point during your trip here to buy or do something. A phrase that will come in handy is ” la’a shukran”. This basically means no thank you and you must be firm when you say it or they will keep hassling you as you try to enjoy the markets, historic places, or just being in Egypt.

• If you do take a camel ride or boat ride on the Nile, be sure you haggle to get a good price. The first price they tell you is usually highly inflated.

• Friendly people can be found in any country and are a welcome sight. Overly friendly people who insist on “helping” you with a picture or your luggage or whatever, then expecting a tip are not so great to encounter. So be aware of this.

• Like any tourist metropolis, Egypt has its share of tourist traps which not only are over-priced, but garner a commission for the “guides” who steer people there. Instead of allowing any tour company to include a stop by an authentic perfume shop, papyrus factory, or carpet store on your tour itinerary, decline that option and enjoy the local bazaar for better deals on your own.

• Many people in Egypt rely on tourism for their livelihoods and tipping is a primary source of income. One trick some people use to get a bigger tip than what is standard is to act insulted when you first tip them. Check the internet to see what is customary when it comes to tipping so you’re informed.

• Don’t drink local water anywhere – it’s best to stick to bottled water if you wish to not take a chance of getting sick. It’s also wise to carry water and snacks with you as you are out and about so you don’t have to worry about finding an oasis along the way.

* Riddle answer: a human – as a baby, we crawl on all fours, then we learn to walk, and in old age, a cane is often used.

There are many all-inclusive resorts and hotels available to choose from that are family-friendly. You could stay closer to the higher energy of Cancun, or venture further away from the airport to be better positioned should you wish to take a couple of day trips to see the surrounding areas.

All-Inclusive Hotel

AZUL Beach Hotel by Karisma is one all-inclusive that you should check out. It includes a variety of restaurants, a beach butler service, kids’ programs, baby/toddler gear, 24-hour room service, various activities like Spanish or yoga lessons, and water sports in the lodging fee.

This all-inclusive is located just 20 minutes from the Cancun airport and specifically caters to families with younger children. Babies and toddlers up to age 3 stay free and lodging for kids up to age 12 is 50% off. The AZUL Beach Hotel has a partnership with Fisher-Price and even offers a toy lending program – no need to waste precious luggage space and what kid doesn’t enjoy playing with something new?

Tulum

About 80 miles from Cancun lies the ancient seaside town of Tulum. At a point where the sea meets the land sits an ancient Mayan ruin. While here you can spend the day talking about how archaeologists found this site, see who can spot the most iguanas amongst the ruins, buy some lunch and souvenirs at the local market or listen for the music and see the voladores or “dance of the flying men”.

When you’re ready to relax a little, enjoy some quality time on the nearby beach or playing in the beautiful Caribbean waters. The beach is not very big, but the waters are shallow and warm.

Tip: Guided tours of the site are available for approximately $40 USD for a group of 4. There are signs that indicate what various parts of the structure were used for, but a guide will be money well spent to help make the past come to life.

Note: To ensure safer footing, it’s advised to wear rubber soled shoes or hiking footwear around the archeaological sites.

Crococun (Puerto Morelos)

This attraction actually helps rehabilitate crocodiles that were abused or injured so that they may be released back into the wild. You can also feed the monkeys and deer that live here and hold or touch boas, iguanas, and possibly a monkey. The setting is gorgeous and tropical and there are many chances to get some great pictures.

Guided tours are available for about $ 10/person and last about an hour and a half. Give this some serious consideration as something you all can enjoy together where you can learn about crocodiles and other animals.

Beaches

By taking your vacation to the Mayan Riviera, your family will probably spend time vising different area beaches. One thing you might want to try is snorkeling. The warm water hosts colorful fish that will delight the kids for sure. If you have older children, there are numerous places that you can snorkel, jet ski, or learn how to scuba dive.

In addition to the amazing beaches, your family can also enjoy one of several water parks in the area. Two of the most popular and famous are Xcaret and Xel-Ha. Xcaret features an underground river that kids from ages 5 and up can swim in. It also has a river boat ride, snorkeling, Mayan World with real and recreated Mayan ruins, and live entertaninment. Xel-Ha is for those who love animals. Here you can see big cats like pumas and jaguars, butterflies, giant turtles, and manatees.

Tip: Check the Xcaret & Xel-Ha websites to book your entrance online to save 10% and get more details.

Weather

The mean annual temperature in this region of Mexico ranges from 24° – 25° C (77 – 79 F). There is a rainy season that runs from May through November. While hurricanes and tropical storms can occur, they usually don’t make landfall in this area. The temperature fluctuations are not too great, so lighter clothing is advisable pretty much all year-long. If you will be traveling in the cooler months of November – January, you might want to bring a jacket or just buy something there, if necessary.

Underwater Cave Diving

Mexico is a great place for those who enjoy underwater cave exploration. The Yucatan area has some of the most beautiful and extensive underwater caves on the planet. The area called the Quinatan Roo has been the most explored, but one will find numerous cenotes throughout the Mayan Riviera region to explore. The waters generally stay warm year-round and make for some interesting diving experiences.

National Geographic recently reported that some old skeletal remains have been found in an underwater cave just outside of Tulum. Dubbed Eva of Naharon, it appears that this will be the oldest skeleton ever found in the Americas. Who can say what your family might discover while exploring a cenote or cave?

However, let it be noted that you must be an experienced diver and certified in cave diving as it is unique and not safe for those who don’t know what they are doing. If you have some serious divers in your family, this might be an exciting and once-in-a-lifetime experience for the family to try.

Note: If your vacation allows for it, consider a day trip over to Cozumel island. There are ferries which will take you from Playa del Carmen

Mild weather, friendly people, and easy access to historic ruins, fun shopping, and the beach make visiting the Mayan Riviera area of Mexico a great choice for families.

As if sailing on a huge ship the size of several football fields wouldn’t be exciting enough for your kids, cruises offer a lot of things to do on-board. From rock climbing and line dancing to cooking classes, trivia contests, and musical performances, one would have to try really hard to become bored.

Several questions you should ask yourself when planning a family cruise are:

1. What types of activities are offered for children? Are they a good fit for my child and his or her personality?

2. What is the child to counselor ratio? Is it sufficient to keep things fun and safe for my child while I leave them to participate in different activities? Are pagers available in case they need to find me when I am on a different part of the ship?

3. Are the children’s activities available daily during the time we wish to take our family vacation? Some cruise lines might only offer certain programs during the busy season.

4. What types of programs or activities are available for our family to participate in together?

5. What age groups are the activities broken down into? Will my kids want to do things together or separately?

6. If you are planning on vacationing with an infant or child under 3, check to see what types of nursery and babysitting services are provided. More frequently, the cruise lines are catering to those with babies and toddlers by providing certified and well-trained staff to help ease any separation anxiety mom or child might have.

Once you have figured out these basics, you can then look to the different cruise lines to see which is the best fit for your family’s vacation wants and needs.

Destinations

For some families, just being on board a large cruise liner is a fantastic and memorable experience. But others might be interested in where the ship is sailing. Prior to booking your trip, look over the ship’s sailing itinerary to see how many days are spent in port and how many at sea. Carnival spends more time sailing, while other liners like Disney, Princess, Holland America, and Norwegian all have privately owned islands where they make port calls.  Oftentimes, these islands are clean and offer a safe environment for beach play, snorkeling, parasailing, nature exploration, and other on-land organized  programs for the kids.

Note: Shore excursion tours are available for purchase from the cruise line from reputable tour operators. However, read the descriptions of each activity carefully and keep in mind the weather and activity level needed. If your little ones are already tired from a few days of on-board fun, hiking through a rain forest might make for some grumpy monkeys.

Activities

Depending on your child’s age and interests, you will want to compare a couple of different cruise lines to determine which is the best fit. Each cruise line offers the traditional activities with some unique features too. For example, on a Disney cruise, your child can learn about animation while Princess ships offer more educational programs such as photography classes, studying coral reefs or even dissecting a squid.  If you’ve seen their ads, you probably know that Royal Caribbean is a great choice for sports lovers as they have a rock-climbing wall, ice skating, golf, surfing, and basketball along with a health club.

For older kids and teenagers, several cruise lines offer things like teen-only hot tubs and private pool areas with a section for sunbathing, and teen night clubs. Imagine how independent your teen will feel being able to have fun in a setting that is specifically for them and their peers. They’ll have so much fun!

Tip: A daily bulletin is delivered to your room each evening so you can plan the next day’s events.

Room Options

Some rooms are more spacious than others, so ask your travel agent for specifics regarding size and to see a floor plan layout. Compare the cost of having 2 adjoining staterooms as compared to a family suite as the pricing might be more attractive that way. There is usually a charge for additional passenger rates if you add to the standard allowed for the family suite.

Some of the biggest standard rooms are found on Carnival cruises. They easily will accommodate up to four people.  Disney ships offer a setup where part of the room can be closed off with a floor-to-ceiling drapery. They also have two bathrooms, including a tub and not just a shower. This can be difficult to find on the other carriers. Norwegian Cruise Lines‘ “Pride of America” ship has a spacious 335 square foot family suite. It comes with a private balcony, living room, den, private bath and 2 televisions.

Most of the major cruise lines offer balcony cabins which are great because Mom and Dad can have a private place to relax without disturbing the kids while they sleep. This helps make the cabin feel more spacious too and is another way to enjoy the cruise without leaving your room.

Finally, some extra tips and things to consider:

• If you want to steer clear of the college-aged Spring Breakers, be sure to ask your travel agent before booking about whether or not your chosen ship will be full of a more lively crowd or not.

• If you are traveling during school holidays, there will be lots of kids on board. Most of the popular cruise lines are aware of this and have special promotions to entice families to sail during school breaks. Don’t expect your cruise during this time to be tranquil and serene. Your kids and everyone else’s will probably be very excited and energetic when they see all that a cruise ship has to offer.

• Set a daily budget for incidentals the kids might want for things that are an additional charge or for things from the gift shop.

• Many cruise liners offer a soda wrist band that allows unlimited soft drinks. For those with teenagers, this might prove to be especially economical.

• Read the brochure that comes with your tickets regarding the ship’s dress code and pack accordingly.

• Laundry service, while available, can be rather costly. Some ships do have laundrettes you could use to wash and dry while on vacation. Otherwise, consider packing enough clothes for the duration of your trip and doing the laundry once your return home.

In the fall, just driving through the state and enjoying the fall foliage is a pleasant experience. My child enjoyed searching for her favorite “pretty” leaves that we took home and pressed between two pieces of wax paper to make bookmarks for her grandparents. She was especially proud to have gotten them leaves “from Vermont” and just any old leaves from the backyard.

Maple Syrup

Some of the prettiest foliage you will see in the autumn in Vermont are the leaves on the maple trees. After the cold winter months, as spring is just about to emerge, the sap is about to run in maple trees. During special times of the year, usually March and April in the USA, maple trees are tapped and the sap is collected. This sap is then boiled down to make pure maple syrup. Vermont has numerous farms where you can buy freshly made syrup and maybe even see how it is made.

One place you might wish to consider is the Hathaway Farm. They are a working farm in the Green Mountain area where you they have a livestock farm and make their own maple syrup. They have lots of other activities year-round, including Vermont’s largest corn maze. Admission to the maze is $9.00 for those 12 and older and kids 4-11 and seniors are $7.00. Each Saturday night in season (late July until October 31st), they have Moonlight Madness. Kids will enjoy the maze with Glo-sticks and be able to roast some marshmallows too. The clear night sky will allow for stunning star-gazing also.

Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

Nurse, teacher, motorcycle mama  – these are just some of the hundreds of types of bears that are made lovingly by hand at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory in Burlington, Vermont. Kids of all ages might enjoy a tour here. It costs just $ 2.00 for adults and kids are free. The tour lasts about 30 minutes. In addition to seeing how each bear is made, your family can also see the Bear Museum and there are daily kids’ activities – rain or shine.

Tours are offered daily from 9 am to 5 pm during the winter season (October 26 – June 30) and from 9 am to 6 pm during the summer season (July 1 – October 25).  The factory and store are open daily except for major holidays.

Tip: Check the website here for a coupon you can print out to receive a free bag with purchase at the factory store.

Winter Sports

Vermont is well-known as one of the premier places in New England for skiing and there are several fine ski resorts across the state. Whether it’s downhill or cross-country, there are numerous places to enjoy some snowy fun. Lessons and equipment rental is available at most locations and some such as the Mad River Glen and Middlebury Snow Bowl offer kids’ programs. Children are fast learners. Whether they already know how to ski or just want to get started, there are highly qualified ski and snowboard instructors at the resorts.

You might also consider trying out some snow shoeing or sledding. Vermont has some hilly terrain and most parks and forested areas have great spots for sledding. One of the best resources for a good sledding hill is simply to ask one of the local residents.

Tip: If you need a break from the fun in the snow, or just want to learn more about skiing, visit the Vermont Ski Museum in Stowe. It’s open every day but Tuesday and hours are noon to 5 pm. Suggested donation for admission for a family is just $5.00.

Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream

Chunky Monkey, Cherry Garcia, Chubby Hubby – which is your favorite? You haven’t tried any of them?! Well head up to Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury, Vermont for a tour and a sample. This well-known brand started off as a simple local shop that offered high-quality adventurous and unique ice cream flavors. Of course now it’s a well-known brand.

Tours are offered from either 9 am or 10 am until 6pm or later, depending on the time of year. The guided tour lasts about half an hour and costs just $3.00 for adults and kids 12 and under are free.  The tour is brief and won’t keep little tummies waiting too long for the whole reason you probably stopped here in the first place – the ice cream. All of the flavors are available, so come hungry.

In addition to the ice cream shop, there is also a gift shop where you can pick up some fun souvenirs. A “flavor graveyard” is fun for kids and adults to see the funny tombstones of retired ice cream flavors.

Tip: The plant does not produce ice cream every day, so be sure to check the web site or call if this is an important reason for your family to include this in your vacation itinerary.

Vermont Cheese

The rolling countryside is a perfect place to raise goats and cows. If you have a picky eater, you know that getting them to eat right can be a challenge. But even the pickiest of eaters, like my little girl, can find some sort of cheese that they like. Many local farms across the state of Vermont offer a chance to see cheese being made, sample assorted cheeses, visit petting zoos, and even a chance to milk a cow or goat. Visit the Vermont Farms Association web site here to learn more.

One of the more well-known brands of cheese and dairy products is Cabot Creamery. Since 1919, this company has been in business making cheese products and is owned by dairy farmers. At their Visitor Center in Cabot, Vermont, you can take a short half hour tour and see cheese actually being made. Afterward, there are plenty of cheese samples available in varieties you might not even know existed.

Admission is $2.00 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Depending on the time of year, tours are offered either from 9 am or 10 am until 4 pm or later. They are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Note: If you aren’t interested in the tour, you can still sample and buy Cabot cheeses at their Annex located close to Ben and Jerry’s in Waterbury, Vermont.

Lodging

There are numerous lodging options available across the state, from quaint bed and breakfasts and rooms located on working farms, to more traditional hotels and resorts. One you might consider for your family’s vacation is the Trapp Family Lodge. Located in Stowe, it is 2,400 acres of fun for the nature and outdoor enthusiast.

They offer a variety of activities, including painting, music, dance, baking classes, and yoga and massage. There are trails and gardens to explore and tennis courts and pools to enjoy. In March, they have maple sugaring. At other times, there are structured activities that your child can enjoy. The Lodge’s website has more information and package specials, including rates that include a tasty breakfast.

From beautiful countryside drives to farm tours and snow sports, we think that you’ll find Vermont to be a charming and relaxing family vacation destination.

We divided our time between indoor and outdoor activities. That way, the weather didn’t affect our vacation at all. The basic must-see things you’ll want to take the kids to see here can be noted as historic places, animals, and museums .

First, we’ll start with what is easily the most recognizable house on Earth – the White House. Ask your kids if they know the President’s address and I bet they do! (It’s 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.)

White House

Kids still dream of being the President, don’t they? Why not give your aspiring ruler of the free world a look at the place where history is made up close. Since John Adams, each President of the United States has lived here.

Each day, about 5,000 people visit the White House. Tours are available for groups of 10 or more, but as this is where the President actually lives, security is enhanced. It would be best to check here for details if you wish for your D.C. vacation to include a tour of the White House.

National Mall – Monuments

This is an open-air park that is part of downtown Washington, D.C. It contains many of the most famous monuments and landmarks in the world.

Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument,  Jefferson Memorial, Veterans Memorial – challenge your family to recall a couple of facts regarding each monument. Did you know that there are more than 20 monuments located here? Kids and adults will marvel at the pristine condition of the monuments and learn something new as to why each was erected. Whether you visit during the daytime or evening, you will be impressed by their simple beauty.

Tip: Many people like to visit here in April as the various cherry trees are in bloom and make a stunning backdrop for photos.

Smithsonian National Zoo

Everyone knows that zoos are where you go to see animals from all over the world. But the National Zoo is something special because it contains so much in its 163 acres.  The National Zoo is fundamentally committed to animal conservation and education and is making efforts towards saving the giant panda from extinction. There are close to 2,000 animals from 400 different species living at the National Zoo. From great apes, big cats, and Asian elephants to aquatic animals, reptiles, and birds, this Zoo has animals to delight and amaze everyone in the family.

There are several restaurant and snack places on site and coolers are allowed should you wish to picnic. Strollers are available for rental. As expected, there are also several gift shops to find the perfect souvenir.

The Zoo is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm between November – March and from 10 am to 6 pm from April – October and admission is free. Check the Zoo`s website for special hours and events, such as Boo at the Zoo (October 23 – 25th).

Tip: Parking can be a bit expensive here and the lots fill up early sometimes. To save the hassle, consider using the Metro (red line) instead of driving your personal or rented vehicle.

Note: Each day there are different programs offered to learn more about animals and their habitats, see live feedings, or even touch some of the animals. Prior to your visit to the Zoo, check out the Zoo’s website (http://nationalzoo.si.edu/) for the day’s schedule and plan accordingly to best suit your family’s interests. The Zoo’s website also has several activity pages that can be printed out and brought along on your visit. They include a scavenger hunt, bingo, and more.

Air and Space Museum

There are hundreds of original, historic artifacts on display showing the progression of man’s first attempts at flight up to the most modern machines flying today. Who doesn’t look at the actual Apollo 11 command module spacecraft and wonder how in the world (or out of this world) astronauts could endure a trip of any length in such cramped quarters? An actual lunar rock that visitors can touch is on display. The Wright Brothers 1903 Flyer is here too. Your kids will be amazed at how different this first airplane is to modern ones.

This is the most popular of all of the museums that are part of the Smithsonian group and houses the largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft in the world. You’ll want to allow several hours to see each floor and take in all there is to be learned here. The museum is open daily from 10:30 am until 5 pm, except for Christmas Day when it is closed. Admission is free, but you might want to check their website for online reservations for the various films and programs that are offered.

National Museum of Natural History

This is where you can see so many different things to view here: from the history and cultures of Africa, primate diversity around the world, to the life of ants and ancient life forms such as dinosaurs, and rare gemstones like the Hope Diamond. With more than 1.5 million square feet of space, you will need to allow several hours to fully enjoy this museum.

There is a restaurant, snack place, and gift shops on site. Part of the Smithsonian complex of museums, this one also offers free admission and is open daily from 10 am until 5:30 pm. From time to time it is open later, so check here for more details.

Lodging

There are so many choices when it comes to finding a place to stay while visiting D.C. But we liked our hotel that gave us an incentive to stay there. Several hotels in the area offer what is called a “Panda Package”.  A portion of your room fee is donated to the National Zoo to help conservation efforts in the US and China to help save the giant panda from extinction. By booking through this promotion, at your hotel during check-in, you will receive a Zoo Welcome Gift Box containing a plush panda, a disposable camera, Zoo map and pen, stickers, and more.

We loved the Washington Suites Georgetown for this reason and also because they offer a complimentary breakfast and warm cookies at check-in. This hotel is 9 blocks from the White House and just 2 blocks from the Foggy Bottom metro station which will make visiting the museums, National Mall, and Zoo especially easy. The room was comfortable and spacious and had a big-screen tv and fully stocked kitchen.

Visiting the US capital will certainly be a memorable vacation. It’s always fun to see places we’ve read about in person. We loved our trip to D.C. and actually hope to return because there is never enough time (or parental energy) to see everything during the first visit.

Some things you should know. First, many of the places mentioned in this article are great for families because they are affordable and don’t go overboard on elaborate bells and whistles. Second, the state’s highways are easy to travel. You could start your Kentucky vacation in Louisville before heading south to Cave City and Bowling Green, which are both just a couple hours away. Also, there are rest stops, restaurants, and lodging located at convenient intervals between the bigger cities and towns.

Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

Baseball fans surely know this name and those who just like to see how things are made will enjoy a trip to this factory and museum located in the heart of downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It’s an easy to find museum – just have your little ones watch for the giant baseball bat out front!

2009 is the 125th anniversary of this company and a great time to visit. With each paid admission ($5 for kids 6 and older up to $10 for adults) a guided tour is available. Most folks allow about 2 hours to see everything. You might want to keep this a secret to keep little ones surprised – everyone who goes on the tour receives a miniature souvenir bat at the end. How fun!

Some of the things you can expect to see in the museum include the first public display of a Louisville Slugger bat that was used by Joe DiMaggio during his 56 game hitting streak in 1941. There is a special area where visitors can actually hold bats used by past and present baseball superstars. A recent renovation to the museum allows for updated factory tours where one can see how the famous bats are made. We should also mention that for the very first time, the bat used by the legendary Babe Ruth during his 60 home run season of 1927 is on display.

Note: There is no bat production on Sundays or holidays. Be sure to check www.slugger.com for more details and driving directions to the museum prior to your trip.

Dinosaur World

If you have a child who adores dinosaurs, consider stopping by Dinosaur World in Cave City, Kentucky. Here, your little one will marvel at the more than 100 life-size replica dinosaur statues as you walk through the wooded area. Some of the exhibits will move or have sound along with signs indicating facts about each particular kind of dinosaur. There is also a place for kids to dig for fossils, view a film about dinosaurs in the “movie cave”, and unearth a life-size dinosaur in the “Boneyard”.

There is no restaurant on site, but there is a picnic area. Stop by a local grocery store for a loaf of bread and some cold cuts, cheese, or other finger foods and enjoy a fun picnic after everyone has worked up an appetite from exploring Dinosaur World. Afterward, the younger set can burn off some energy on the playground while the adults relax.

Admission is approximately $9.75 for children 3-12 and $12.75 for adults. There is a small additional fee for the fossil dig. The park is located right off I-65 and is open daily from 8:30 am until sunset and closed for Christmas and Thanksgiving. Active US military get in free by showing their ID.

Tip: Check www.dinoworld.net for special events. For example, on Halloween, kids in costume who are ages 3-12 will get in for free. There is also free admittance given to any child who visits on their birthday.

Note: If you visit during the warmer months, be sure to mind your step as you hike through taller grasses. We encountered a non-poisonous snake while making the short hike up to a spot that overlooked the freeway to see the huge T-Rex that beckons you to stop.

National Corvette Museum

Those with teens or kids who are interested in automobiles will enjoy a stop at the National Corvette Museum and Assembly Plant. Open most days but holidays from 8 am until 5 pm, you can see how the Corvette has changed through the years and even take a tour of the factory where they are made.

Admission ranges from $4.50 for children 6 and older and up to $8.00 for adults and there is a family rate of $20.00 available. Tours of the factory are an additional $5.00 and take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Be sure to check online to make arrangements in advance to help ensure you get your preferred tour time.

Tip: If you have a AAA card or college student in your group, you will be entitled to a discount on admission.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Located in central Kentucky lies a series of caves and caverns that sprawl over an area longer than 325 miles – and that’s just the known parts of this amazing subterranean labyrinth. Mammoth Cave is the longest and one of the most well-known cave systems in the world.

Formed over millions of years as water eroded limestone, Mammoth Cave contains a variety of geologic features including broad caverns, narrow horizontal caves, huge vertical shafts, and stalactites, stalagmites, and white gypsum crystal formations. For fun, do you remember the difference between stalactites and stalagmites? *answer below

There are guided tours available of varying lengths and degree of difficulty. We took the Frozen Niagara tour and it was very cool. It is listed as strenuous and we found this to be true mostly because of the steps required. The actual 2 hour tour went by at a nice pace and we learned a lot, including seeing some of the amazing animal life that lives in caves and out of natural sunlight.

Tip: Be sure to check out the various tours offered online and make your reservations early. There is a limited number of tours each day and they do sell out, especially during the summer and on weekends.

Gemstones

As you travel throughout Kentucky between the places mentioned above, you might see hand-written signs pointing the way to gemstone spots. This is a low-tech way to entice you to usually family-owned and operated places where geodes and assorted gemstones can be bought and/or searched for amongst a variety of set-ups.

One place you might wish to stop in Cave City (not far from Mammoth Cave and Dinosaur World) is Big Mike’s Rocks, Gifts, and Mystery House. Here you will find mostly reasonably priced items for souvenirs. There are t-shirts aplenty and a nice porch with rocking chairs. In addition to the fantastic assortment of pretty rocks and gemstones is the “Mystery House”. It costs $1.00 for adults and 50 cents for kids for the short guided tour. It’s best to enjoy this hand-made “house” through a child’s eyes as you marvel at how water could possibly defy gravity and run uphill or how optical illusions work. It’s not grand, but it was some cheap fun!

Note: Our 5-year old enjoyed looking through the ugly-on-the-outside rocks for a full 5 minutes before finally settling on one to have sawed open to reveal a pretty green geode inside. I think we paid about $10 for it and she still likes to look at it up close and remember our trip to the caves and through Kentucky.

Final Tip: As you travel through Kentucky, be sure to look for the discount booklets in hotel lobbies, restaurant entrances, and in the rest stops. Numerous tourist attractions, lodging places, and restaurants offer discounts with the coupons found in these free booklets.

* Answer: stalagmites grow up from the floor while stalactites look like icicles and hang down from the ceiling of a cave or cavern. Did you get it right?

Bordered by the Caribbean and North Pacific Oceans, this small country boasts rain forests, beaches, waterfalls, and great sites for fishing, hiking, surfing, and bird watching. It’s definitely a paradise for those looking to see what all nature has to offer.

Read along as we offer up some ideas about great places to consider as you begin planning your family’s visit to Costa Rica.

Manuel Antonio National Park

About 25% of Costa Rica is protected. The Manuel Antonio National Park thrives with animals such as tropical birds, monkeys, various types of frogs and spiders, ghost crabs, and sloths. Nature lovers will be amazed by the diverse plants here too – both poisonous and non-poisonous.

To fully enjoy a visit here, many recommend hiring a tour guide such as one from Manuel Antonio Expeditions. Not only will the guide keep you and your little ones from accidentally touching the wrong plant or animal, they can spot things that the untrained eye will most definitely miss. Tours cost about $40 USD and include pick-up/drop-off, entrance to the Park, and lunch.

Tip: If you will be employing the use of a guide, be sure to ask whether or not they speak English if no one in your family understands Spanish.

For more adventuresome families, there is whitewater rafting, forest canopy tours (where you zip down cables from tree-to-tree, 20 meters high), and swimming in the waterfalls

Note:　Between November 5 – 8th, 2009, the Park will host the Costa Rica International Film Festival.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Due to nearly 100% humidity throughout the year, the region is bathed in a constant soft mist which makes it looks like you are walking amongst the clouds. This highland forest is one of the most famous in Central America and budding botanists will marvel at the variety of more than 420 types of orchids and over 2,500 plant species that can be found here. Also, animal lovers will enjoy trying to spot tapirs, amphibians, deer, agouti, and an array of  winged creatures such as bats and hummingbirds.

Guided tours in English or Spanish are available for a fee and children 6 and under are free.  Be sure to check online for tour times and availability. There is a souvenir shop, restaurant, and art gallery on site which are all open from 7 am to 4 pm.

Note: March-April are best times for viewing nesting birds.

For butterfly enthusiasts, there is the Monteverde Butterfly Garden (Jardin de Mariposas) where you can get up close and personal with varieties such as the Floating Tiger, Zebra Longwing, and Blue Morpho. Guided 1.5 hour tours in English or Spanish are available with admission which is approximately $3 for kids up to $9 for adults. The Garden is open daily from 9:30 am until 4 pm.

Arenal Volcano

Located about 90 km northwest of San Jose sits this geographic wonder that almost daily spews red hot bits of rock and ash. It last erupted in 1992, so a visit here certainly brings some excitement to young minds as they see the Earth truly alive. There is a safety perimeter in place, so a visit is as safe as can be when viewing one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. Many like to visit in the evening as the incandescent rocks make for a memorable sight.

To make viewing the nighttime wonder of the Arenal Volcano at night, consider staying overnight in the area. There are numerous lodging options with views of the volcano and/or lava flows from your room. One such option is the Arenal Observatory Lodge. They offer several room types and children under 11 can eat and sleep free in their parents’ room. A daily complimentary breakfast and morning hike on the property trails with a local guide are offered here.

Costa Rica also has fantastic sandy beaches. Your little ones might delight in trying to catch one of the iguanas that can be found sunning themselves. Just remember that this little country is located closer to the equator than you might be used to, so sun screen is a necessity. Daily temperatures are mild and will vary, depending on the season, between 21 to 27 degrees Celsius (70 – 81 degrees Fahrenheit) with the months of November – January being the coolest.

With over 800 species of birds, an active volcano, more animals and plants than one can count, and pleasant, friendly locals, Costa Rica is an easy choice for a family vacation. Your family could easily tailor a week or more of activities that will keep everyone interested. Just imagine the possibilities!

Note: Be sure to check for passport and visa requirements prior to your trip by visiting www.costarica.com.

• 1) Prior to deciding on a particular location, determine if you want to spend a lot of time together doing the same thing or a vacation where each person can find their individual fun. For the ultimate in family togetherness, camping is one way to go. But if your family includes children who are older or teenagers who might be happier having a bit of restrained freedom, a vacation to an all-inclusive resort or on aboard a cruise ship might be more fitting.

• 2) If you are planning your family vacation over several days, consider having a list of optional things to do both indoors and outside so that the weather doesn’t impact your family’s fun times. Certainly no one will have good memories if all of your outdoor destinations are ruined by inclement weather.

• 3) Popular destinations such as Disneyland offer reasonable package tours. You can save by grouping your hotel, attractions, and some meals together in one plan. Many times, you will find perks like early park entry and special events included in such package options.

• 4) Some families find that bringing a cooler stocked with juices and water is a handy way to save some cash when making pit stops along the way. Why pay $2.00 for a bottle of soda if you don’t have to – especially if it will be multiplied by every member of your family. We also liked to freeze bottles of water and juice boxes. During the hot summer months, the “slushie boxes” were a hit.

• 5) It may seem obvious, but essentials such as pain relievers like Tylenol and a first aid kit should also be included on your packing list. No one wants to deal with a headache and trying to find a drug store in an unfamiliar town. Sunscreen and waterless hand sanitizer are also advisable to bring along on any family journey.

• 6) Small packets of Kleenex are not only great for runny noses, but also come in handy when the restroom you stop at always seem to be the one out of stock on the toilet paper.

• 7) If you will be staying in a hotel, see if your lodging choice offers roll-away beds for a small fee instead of paying double for an extra hotel room. This is especially smart if you have younger children who could become frightened sleeping in a strange room – even if your hotel offers adjacent rooms with a connecting interior door. Also, many hotels offer a “kids stay free” type of promotion. Be sure to ask if your lodging choice is doing this when making your reservations.

• 8) If your hotel is not a suite, ask if a mini-fridge might be available. Keeping it stocked with drinks and cold cuts or yogurt, etc. will help save on food and drink costs.

• 9) It might sound odd, but consider staying at a hostel or hotel located in a business center. While they might not be as conveniently located to tourist attractions, the rates will be attractive. Hostels offer family rooms and many now offer private baths. Hotels located in business centers can offer discounted rates when their usual business customers have gone home for the weekend.

• 10) To keep vacation spending under control when traveling with children and/or teens, consider giving each member a daily or trip allowance. Not only will it limit the impact on your wallet, but will give kids an empowering real life experience in deciding how to handle their money.

• 11) In addition to including some popular “must-see” places on your itinerary, consider leaving time to just happen upon a restaurant or attraction that might not be heavily advertised. Sometimes the best memories come from those places that we just came upon – like the private farm that had ostriches, yaks, and a camel!

• 12) If you will be traveling by car or plane, be sure to take along snacks and small games or books to help keep kids preoccupied and to cut down on the “are we there yets?”.

• 13) A power charger that plugs into your vehicle’s a/c jack is handy for charging MP3 players, cameras, and cell phones too.

• 14) Finally, before heading out on your next trip, be sure to check online for discount tickets and special promotions.

If you have tips that have helped your family save money on vacation, please leave a comment. We can all learn how to stretch our vacation spending if we share tips.

Woodloch has been owned and operated with pride by the Kiesendahl Family since 1958. Fifty-years of sharing experience on wealthy family vacation and tradition of warm hospitality, award-winning resort is an oasis of recreation and relaxation for all ages.  With multi-generational activities, including a Broadway style theme show and a variety of recreational activities and interactive games, Woodloch is often  referred to as a “cruise on land”.

So what can you find in Woodloch? Babysitting services, boating, bumper boats, paddle boats, kayaks, sailboats, water skiing on the lake, go karts, indoor playground, splash pool.

The scheduled activities change daily. Some are indoors, some are out. From games like “name that tune”, scavenger hunts, and scategories (indoors) to family Olympics, waterslide contest, and softball (outdoors).

Of course there are activities which are available that are not structured (rifle range, bumper cars, bumper boats, bike riding, shuffle board, a gymnasium, and game rooms) to name a few.  There is also an arts & crafts room, and a room where movies are shown.

Diversification does not stop there.  Woodloch truly has something for everyone with Woodloch Springs’ 18-hole championship golf course and exclusive access to spa-treatments at it’s sister property, the Lodge at Woodloch.

Woodloch is a four-seasons resort nestled in the picturesque Pocono Mountains Lake Region of Northeast Pennsylvania and is a haven for outdoor adventure.

Enjoy kayaking, sailing and boating on it’s own Lake Teedyuskung or venture out to the nearby Delaware or Lackawaxen Rivers where you will also find world class fishing and bird watching. Look out for Bald Eagles; this is one of their prime nesting areas.

Catering to the individual needs of every group and event is why Woodloch is such a highly acclaimed facility. This unique venue specializes in weddings, family reunions, senior group tours and class trips.

As a center for corporate retreats, Woodloch goes above and beyond, providing specialized “team building” programs and state of the art facilities.  High Speed Wireless Internet Access is available throughout the resort.

Woodloch Resort is a convenient and scenic drive from New York, Philadelphia, Maryland and Connecticut. You’ll be surprised just how easy it is to get here.   Why travel far when your best vacation value is so close to home?

So what do we think about this amazing place?

FamilyVacation.com rates Woodloch Pines as a “must visit” place and gives it a family rating of 5 stars:

FamilyVacation.com opinion:

This resort is family owned and has been for decades. They take pride in their resort and are constantly adding new games, making renovations, keeping this facility the top rated place it is. Immaculately clean and wonderful, professional staff.