Long ago, moms and dads rounded up the kids, stashed
suitcases, toys, sports and beach gear, and picnic lunches in the family car
and headed out on the family vacation. Of course, there were always squabbles
in the backseat about space, and one child inevitably did not like where the
family was going. Forbes Living offers some tips for a smooth family vacation.
Plan the vacation together as a family. Get everyone
involved about where to go and what to do. When everyone is happy about getting
to that special place, there will be no cranky kids or stressed out parents.
Pick a family-friend hotel, resort or local home for rent.
Be sure there are great places to eat nearby, bike rentals if necessary and are
close to the attractions, beaches, parks and other places of interest.
In-vehicle electronics make the drive more bearable for
everyone. A navigation system for dad, DVDs and games for kids and streaming
movies and music for teens will make long drives less of a drag.
The Forbes Living talk show also suggests planning plenty of
stops at cool places, or at least where there are good, clean bathrooms, picnic
locations, or interesting locations.
The key to having a smooth family vacation (we know there
are such things) is to plan ahead and involve everyone.
