Whether you’re dreaming big with a #bestsummer Bucket List adventure to the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan, or fancy a charming weekend escape to Pennsylvania Dutch country, we’ve got wallet-friendly and super easy-to-plan options for everyone.

TL;DR Dive into the list below and zoom in on whatever sparks your interest! But first, we’ve got some handy tips for smooth sailing with special needs on your trip, plus all the insider info on snagging those sweet, sweet airfare deals. Let’s make this summer legendary!

1. Fantastic Family Fun: Vacations for Everyone

Traveling with loved ones who have special needs can be incredibly rewarding, and with a little planning, it can be a breeze! Understanding and preparing for everyone’s needs ensures a happy and smooth experience for all. Amazing organizations like Special Needs Group and Flying Wheels Travel are experts in providing tailored services and equipment.

Flying? The TSA Cares helpline is there to assist travelers with disabilities – just give them TSA notification card, which can be a real time-saver during security.

There’s also a growing world of support for families with members on the autism spectrum. Check out travel agencies like Travel Able Vacations and Magical Storybook Travels, both founded by moms who truly understand accessible travel. And for fantastic, supported getaways, Autism on the Seas offers “staffed cruises” on Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruises, along with resort stays designed for families with kids, teens, and adults with autism and other developmental differences.

Even airlines are stepping up! Many have dedicated accessibility teams to help with boarding and airport navigation. Some even offer sensory kits packed with noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, and calming cards for travelers with autism. When it comes to where you’ll be staying, don’t hesitate to call the front desk and ask for exactly what you need. Loads of hotels now have accessible rooms with features like wheelchair-friendly bathrooms and lower counters. Just be sure to request these when you book.

Your best summer vacation idea may be a family reunion at the beach. Go for it! Photo by Tyler Nix for unsplash.

2. Soar into Savings: Finding the Best Airfare Deals

Get ready to embrace the wonderful world of low-cost carriers (LCCs)! If a road trip or vacation deal isn’t in the cards, these budget-friendly airlines can make flying to your dream destination super affordable. To really stretch your airfare dollars, set up price alerts on handy websites like Hopper, Kayak, and Google Flights. Timing is key too! A recent study by NerdWallet revealed that the cheapest day to buy a domestic flight is often Sunday for a Saturday departure, while for international trips, aim for a Saturday or Wednesday departure.Keep an eye on deals from Spirit, Frontier, and Breeze Airways. For Caribbean and Central/South American adventures from Boston, check out Arajet. Celebrate savings with JetBlue, which just turned 25! They fly to over 100 destinations and were pioneers of cool perks like seatback TVs with live entertainment, free Wi-Fi, and yummy brand-name snacks. A family favorite? Their in-flight Pantry is usually open for drinks and extra treats throughout your flight.

Globetrotters should explore PLAY, connecting Baltimore, Boston, and New York to 33 European and Turkish cities via Iceland. French Bee, Norse Atlantic, and Neos also offer low-cost flights to Europe from select US cities. Within Europe, budget giants like Ryanair and EasyJet, along with many smaller carriers, provide affordable travel options.

Pro Tip: Before you cash in those credit card points for tickets, see if you can snag an even better deal by transferring them to an airline and using those airline miles instead!us.

USA! USA! Awesome American Adventures Await!

The good ol’ US of A is the top pick for American families this summer, with beach getaways leading the charge. But there’s so much more to explore, from relaxing barge trips to epic road adventures and charming mountain towns where you can splash around without emptying your wallet. Let’s dive in!

Classic red canal boat on the Erie Canal, New York. Photo c. Erie Canal Adventures.

3. History Afloat: Celebrating 200 Years on the Erie Canal

History buffs, even non-cruise fans, will find the Erie Canal in upstate New York special. This summer, Erie Canal Adventures offers 3-7 night rentals of fully equipped 1BR or 2BR barges, allowing families to explore the New York State canal. Prices start at $2,625 for three nights (varying by date and boat size). Their team teaches steering and lock navigation to adults and responsible teens (16+). Enjoy onboard cooking and explore nearby port towns with restaurants, breweries, and bakeries (bikes included). Pack comfy clothes and games for a unique, historical vacation. Read more about our Erie Canal barge vacation.

For a faster pace, consider the annual Parks & Trails Cycle the Erie Canal Trail ride (July 12-20, 2025). All cycling levels can ride the 400-mile route from Albany to Buffalo with supported camping. The four-day tour to Syracuse costs $800 (adult), $500 (ages 6-17), and $200 (under 6). Alternatively, Discovery Bicycle Tours offers inn-to-inn cycling on the Ohio to Erie Trail.

City explorers will enjoy Buffalo celebrations, including museum exhibits and a replica Canal boat. During the World Canals Conference (September 20-24, 2025), the replica Seneca Chief will recreate Governor Clinton’s 1825 Bicentennial journey, stopping at 28 ports from Buffalo to New York Harbor.

For 48 more summer vacation ideas, please visit our #bestsummer roundup of the latest travel deals and savings packages at Family Travel Forum! 

Road Trip Spin: Head across Sweden and Denmark

We love to share good deals, so this one – a free, five-day car rental for Americans traveling to Scandinavia -- caught our eye.  From now through March 15, 2018, any party of two can book flights and add on a rental car, at no extra charge, for any trips taken from May 18 to August 16, 2018.

Egeskov Castle seen from the local park, , photo courtesy Visit Denmark

The Scandinavian Airlines Fly & Drive promotion is designed to encourage travelers to see as much as possible during the long summer days by exploring the region’s cities, coastal towns (these countries have extensive archipelagos and hundreds of islands), and pristine national parks.

Here are two favorite itineraries suggested for outdoor adventures and family fun – divide your time between the stops that sound most interesting, and limit the driving to an hour or two each day, for a great vacation.

Stockholm to Skåne in Sweden

Begin in the capital city and make your way toward Söderåsens National Park in Skåne and hike toward Kopparhatten, often referred to as “Skånes Grand Canyon.” Stops along the way include Dalsland for moose sightings, and Koster Island – Sweden’s first national marine park.

Next, head to Grebbestad and join an oyster safari or lobster catching trip (their suggestions, not mine, but fun!) before driving to Tjörn for some kayaking. Then, it’s a tour of Pilane – one of Europe’s most popular sculpture parks. Less than an hour away, you’ll arrive in Gothenburg, Sweden’s second city, before arriving in Skåne.

Cathedral in Odense, photo courtesy Visit Denmark

Copenhagen to Fyn in Denmark

Start in beautiful Copenhagen and head to Denmark’s Fairytale island, where there are driving routes already charted to take into account your interests in beer, chocolate, horseback riding or castles.

The main city of Odense, Denmark's third-largest, is the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, one of Denmark’s most beloved authors (two hours from Copenhagen.) Here’s a Family Travel Forum report on a weekend in Odense with kids.

The charming village of Odense is fun to explore on foot. Photo courtesy Visit Denmark.

Just 30 minutes south of Odense, drivers will find Egeskov Castle, a 460-year-old castle, with extraordinary gardens, a Classics Museum, and tons of family-friendly activities. Svendborg, a short 20-minute drive from Egeskov, is an idyllic harbor town. From here, there are hourly ferries to Ærø—a favorite vacation spot amongst the Danes. Here visitors will find brightly colored harbor houses, cobblestone streets, and charming cafes. A 45-minute drive southeast of Odense lies Falsled Kro, the only Relais & Chateaux hotel in Denmark, perfect for an overnight splurge. 

Intrigued by a Scandinavian road trip?  To recap the details: When a roundtrip flight via Scandinavian Airlines is booked for two from the US to Oslo, Stockholm or Copenhagen, Scandinavian Airlines is offering a free, five-day Avis rental carto experience the destination. The Scandinavian Airlines Fly & Drive promotion must be booked by March 15, 2018 and used for travel this summer, between May 18 and August 16, 2018.

Let us know which itinerary appeals, or if you decide to head off in another direction.

Orange is the New Cool - New York’s OC

Orange has become the new cool, as Orange County announces the 2020 opening of a LEGOLAND New York themepark.

Rendering of LEGOLAND New York, with announced opening of 2020.

The 170-acre LEGOLAND New York resort is expected to attract approximately two million visitors annually to Goshen, a small town in the foothills of the Catskills – a region that has undergone a lot of development in recent years.

According to Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Howard Zemsky, “LEGOLAND New York’s commitment to community partnership – including donating a portion of its revenue to the community, strong educational opportunities… and workforce training – make this project a win-win for Orange County.”

LEGOLAND New York, which will receive approximately $25 million in support from the Regional Economic Development Council, the Upstate Revitalization Initiative and New York State for projects such as off-site road infrastructure improvements and traffic mitigation measures on already busy Route 17, is forecast to create 800 construction jobs and 1,300 full-time, part-time, and seasonal jobs during its anticipated April 1 to November 1 season.

Merlin Entertainments plc, owner of the LEGOLAND franchise, now operates more than 100 attractions – including LEGOLAND themeparks in California, Florida, United Kingdom, Germany, Malaysia, Denmark, Dubai and Japan – and 15 hotels and six holiday villages in 24 countries. At the October 25, 2017 announcement ceremony Merlin CEO Nick Varney said, “We have spent a lot of time building relationships in the community, listening and responding to concerns, and we are looking forward to building a themepark that will enhance the community and be a tremendous neighbor…I can pledge to you that LEGOLAND New York will be a trusted and valued member of this community.”

As part of the development deal, every year, LEGOLAND New York will host two “Community Days” and donate 50% of the park’s ticket sale revenue to the Town of Goshen. All Goshen residents will be offered a 50% discount on standard one-day themepark tickets as well.

According to Merlin Entertainments, the Goshen themepark anticipates generating $283 million in sales tax and hotel occupancy tax for Orange County over the period of 30 years. Additionally, they estimate that the Town of Goshen would receive about $71 million in revenue from the host community fee, plus its share of PILOT payments and tax payments.

The park’s management will also provide educational program for ages 2-12, including year-round programs focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) education. They plan to partner with local schools and colleges to train and employ students interested in careers in hospitality, business, and mechanical engineering and offer special programs and discounted tickets to area schools, including all school districts within Orange County.

Until LEGOLAND opens, The OC can claim that Orange is the New Black in Halloween events.

The Corn Estate in Orange County, New York is open this Halloween.

The county’s many scare parks and haunted farms are said to make this part of the Hudson Valley home to some of the most terrifying Halloween attractions in the country, attracting thousands of people each year from Philadelphia to Boston – perhaps, all future LEGOLAND customers.

So, grab your grown ones and check out the outdoor and indoor frights of Terror Dome in Newburgh; or catch the live performers and special effects wizardry at the Forest of Fear in Sterling Forest, 600 Route 17A in Tuxedo.

There’s more: the Pure Terror Scream Park in Monroe holds the Guinness World Record for the longest haunted attraction in the world. Fright Nights at Pierson’s Farm has both big boy and little kid thrills, with a non-haunted petting zoo and baby corn maze as well as a haunted graveyard.

And the Corn Estate Haunted House really puts on a family show the last weekend of October and Halloween night, in Cornwall on Hudson.  Check attraction websites for annual schedules and special pricing and have yourself a scare!

For more information on now and upcoming Orange County attractions, lodging, and events, visit OrangeTourism.org and iloveny.com

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ScholarTrips 2016 - Sponsored by Allianz Global Assistance USA

Leading travel insurance provider Allianz Global Assistance USA has created ScholarTrips to give students the opportunity to travel abroad and experience new places and cultures. The company has now provided over $150,000 in travel grants to students across the county.

ScholarTrips Honoree Using Her Scholarship to Travel

This year, students were asked to submit a video or essay response to a question about the impact travel may have on a person.

The contest was open from October 10, 2016 through November 10, 2016 to students over 14-years-old who are U.S. residents. Six winners were awarded a grant of $2,500 for their travel expenses. Click here for a list of this years winners and check back for information on next year's scholarship program.

"We believe that all students should have the opportunity to travel abroad and to experience the world they live in,” said Joe Mason, chief marketing officer of Allianz Global Assistance USA. "We are proud to offer this great opportunity to students across the country and we sincerely wish entries the best of luck."

Allianz Global Assistance offers travel insurance through most major U.S. airlines, leading travel agents, online travel agencies and directly to consumers. For more information on Allianz Global Assistance and the policies offered for travelers, please visit: Allianz Travel Insurance or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/AllianzTravelInsuranceUS.

We thank Allianz Global for their sponsorship of FTF's 10th annual Teen Travel Writing Scholarship.

Top Resorts for Learning a Snowsport (And Where to Find Lodging)

As snow resorts start reporting their daily snow totals, the season is officially underway. So far, no one can beat Lake Tahoe's record set January 11, 2017 -- 16'6" of powder fell in a 10-day period! So to celebrate the great 2016-2017 ski season everyone is hoping for, we've been checking out several of the "Top Mountain Resorts" lists.

Learning how to ski is awesome!

It's Learn a Snowsport Season

From Family Travel Forum comes "The Year's Best Ski and Snow Family Vacations," a roundup of more than 30 resorts with great kids programs and exceptional teaching staff.

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, a time when mountains all over the country are offering low cost beginner lessons in skiing, snowboarding and cross country. (Their website has a directory of offers.)

Slopeside (or even shuttle-friendly) lodging can be a family's biggest expense at a mountain resort. So big in fact, that many families are forced to make very long drives on ski days and can't plan two days of lessons in a row -- a must to get really excited about a new sport.

Sunpeaks ski house featured on Airbnb in Kelowna, B.C. Canada

Recognizing that need, Airbnb is promoting its condos and private homes in ski country, many with hot tubs nearby, that accommodate an extended family and/or friends. According to their spokesperson, there are nearly 35, 000 listings between Canada and the US in ski-resort destinations, including homes with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, ample living spaces, kitchens, and convenient mountainside locations for easy access to the slopes.

Liftopia's Top Beginner and Kid Friendly Resorts by Region

Now it's time to review the resorts that Liftopia, an online marketplace for lift tickets and other mountain activities, has compiled. Their criteria were beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas across North America that are ideal for those looking to learn a winter sport, citing many of the smaller local mountains that are typically more wallet friendly, too.

West Coast: California has the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the West, including Tahoe Donner (first place in the family-friendly category), June, Boreal, Bear Valley, Snow Valley, Homewood, Donner Ski Ranch, Mammoth, Squaw Valley-Alpine Meadows and Sierra-At-Tahoe. Anthony Lakes (Oregon) is the #1 beginner-friendly ski area in the region.

The Burton Riglet Park at Northstar, near Lake Tahoe, is a great place for beginners to learn.

Where to Stay:  There's a great Airbnb in Truckee -- the rustic, three-bedroom Tahoe Donner Cabin -- described as spacious, quiet, convenient and sleeps 8, has a BBQ, free WiFi, fireplace and hot tub for just $225 per night.

Northeast: Bretton Woods is the #1 beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski area in the region. In addition to Bretton Woods, New Hampshire has the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the Northeast, including King Pine, Cranmore, Black Mountain, Pats Peak, Ragged and Attitash.

Where to Stay: There is the classic Omni Bretton Woods Hotel right at the mountain, plus a smaller inn. The Conway region has several small hotels and Airbnbs like Maggie's, which gives you two bedrooms within a larger, historic home for $129 per night.

High West: Utah is home to the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the High West, including Eagle Point (#1 Beginner-Friendly Ski Area), Sundance, Brighton, Powder, Alta, Solitude and Brian Head. In the Family Friendly category, Sipapu, New Mexico came in #1 in the region.

Where to Stay: All of the resorts mentioned have lodging, though it can be expensive. We suggest you review each ski area's website because the fewer facilities they have, the lower the rates will be. If you want to splurge on a big mountain, travel midweek.

Midwest: Michigan ski areas reign supreme in the Midwest, with the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas including Crystal Mountain (first place in both categories), Shanty Creek, Boyne Highlands, Caberfae, Nubs Nob and Boyne Mountain.

Where to Stay: There's a clapboard four-bedroom Airbnb in Mesick, Michigan near to Crystal that sleeps 6 for $155 per night. Note that it's off the grid if you want to unplug (no WiFi no TV).

Southeast: West Virginia has the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the Southeast, with Canaan Valley the number one Beginner Friendly and Family Friendly Ski Area in the region. Other winners include Snowshoe, Timberline Four Seasons and Winterplace.

Where to Stay: There's a lot of on mountain and nearby housing at Snowshoe, and other rentals available through VRBO.com, with rustic mountain homes near Canaan Valley from just $90 per night.

Airbnb Deals from Ski Areas

Here's a roundup of other suggestions from Airbnb, which shows such variety geographically that you can find a good deal practically anywhere there's a ski lift. Head out west, for example, and stay in Tannebaum by the River 301 (from $214 per night), a ski-in Breckenridge loft with six beds sleeping up to 10, and three bathrooms, right near Peak 9. This place is special for tiny travelers because it has two twin beds up on a 2nd floor loft, allowing those who stay up later to enjoy the fireplace and living room without disturbing early sleepers.

Elegant ski condo in Breckeridge, featured on Airbnb, is right off Peak 9 Lifts

Bring the adventure indoors at a Mammoth, California condo ($199) with three bedrooms sleeping up to 8. This casual home is on the shuttle line to town, has its own loft and rock-climbing wall -- perfect for tweens and teens to burn off extra energy.

Bolton Valley is a favorite area for beginners, and this two-bedroom Vermont Airbnb ($300 per night) sleeping 6 is cozy and convenient to the slopes. 

Of course, Airbnb is now available all over the world, giving families an even better chance to combine local culture, perhaps even a foreign language, with their snowsports learning adventure in many European countries.

Pack up the mittens, powdered hot chocolate and cozy pajamas and you'll be all set for a new family adventure.

5 Places to Ring In the New Year with Your Kids

If you’re a parent whose first New Year’s resolution is “spend more quality time with the kids,” there’s no need to wait until January 1st to act. Here are five favorite destinations that celebrate the arrival of the New Year with early and, often, alcohol-free public events designed for families.

MoonPie Drop over Mobile, Alabama. Photo Courtesy Tad Denson, MyShotz.com. 

First Night in Boston, Massachusetts

The city of Boston was the first to produce a fee-free, alcohol-free, civic-minded First Night focused on performing arts more than 40 years ago, a tradition that has spread to more than 200 cities around the world. For 2017, First Night First Day festivities will take place indoors and out around Boston Common and Copley Square. All day into the night, families can see concerts, dance performances, holiday lights and ice sculptors at work. Art gallery tours begin at noon. At 6:00 p.m. there’s the annual People’s Procession and, at 7:00 p.m., family fireworks at Boston Common. Revelers can stay on till midnight for the even bigger Countdown to Copley fireworks illuminating the sky over Copley Square, or watch it live on NBC Boston from their hotels. On January 1, family and children’s entertainment will be live in Copley Square from noon to 4:00 p.m.

Sunset on Clearwater Beach, Florida

Don't expect much bubbly to flow on the sugar sand beaches of family-focused Clearwater Beach. On New Year’s Eve, like most other nights, everyone strolls over to Pier 60 on the Gulf of Mexico shoreline to admire the sunset, listen to live music, shop for crafts and watch fire-throwers perform daring feats. The free, nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival takes place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., after which most families head over to Frenchy's Original. In the past 45 years, the Quebec, Canada expat known as “Frenchy” has opened five very popular seafood cafes. Kids love the beer-battered grouper, garlic fries sprinkled with crabmeat, and key lime pie; a special menu will be available New Year’s Eve. If everyone’s still awake, lay your blanket out on the beach to wait for Light It Up Clearwater, the annual fireworks show amplified in spectacular fashion by reflections from the calm Gulf waters.

Twice the Fireworks in Denver, Colorado

The Mile High City of Denver is situated above 5,000 feet in altitude, and its thin air is ideal to view fireworks. Fortunately, New Year's Eve Fireworks Downtown are done twice:  at 9:00 p.m. for families and at the traditional stroke of midnight for night owls. Get to the 16th Street Mall by 8:00 p.m. for a good viewing spot, and enjoy the costumed characters, stilt walkers and balloon-making artists while you wait. If you’re traveling with preschoolers, start the last day of 2016 at the Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for running-around fun like confetti showers, bouncing on bubble wrap, and art projects. The Denver Zoo Year’s Eve party welcomes families to view its extensive holiday lights and enjoy a 9:00 p.m. countdown party.

The Big Orange over Miami, Florida

Whether you’re fans of Justin Bieber or Billy Joel, Miami has you covered, with private New Year’s Eve concerts by both superstars plus dozens of world-class DJ parties at area nightclubs. Families should head to downtown Coconut Grove at 2:00 p.m. December 31 for the King Mango Strut Parade, a silly parade of costumed locals whose first float features the winner of the Little Miss Mango Pageant. Hit the beach, have some Cuban food, then be at Pitbull's New Year Revolution at Bayfront Park by 10:00 p.m. Queen Latifah and Snoop Dogg are hosting the free outdoor countdown concert that will thrill teens. (Younger kids can get in their PJs and watch it live on Fox TV in your hotel.) Keep an eye out for the 35-foot-wide Big Orange being hoisted up the side of the InterContinental Hotel. As it reaches the roof at midnight, fireworks illuminate the city, the park and Biscayne Bay -- where hundreds of party boats are waiting to host the city’s famed after-parties.

MoonPie Drop in Mobile, Alabama

They’re expecting 50,000 people for the Mobile New Year, which begins at 3:00 p.m. with the live broadcast of the National College Football Championship play-off game on big screens off Bienville Square. Mobile is known more for MoonPies marshmallow sandwiches than football – it’s the favorite treat thrown out by Mardi Gras maskers in the very first city to celebrate Mardi Gras, back in 1703. During New Year’s Eve, a 12-foot-tall, 600 lb. electric MoonPie hovers over the square while spectators chow down on the world’s largest edible MoonPie baked by the original Chattanooga Bakery. While awaiting midnight, dance to the live music of En Vogue, parade around with painted umbrellas, and find a viewing spot for the laser light show, fireworks and of course, the MoonPie drop.

Visit our colleagues at Family Travel Forum for more ideas on where to spend New Year's Eve with the whole family.

Happy New Year's!

8 Tips to Turn Airport Security Into the Best Part of Your Vacation

On your way to the airport with a Samsung Galaxy Note7 in your pocket? If so, you need our travel tips on better packing and ever-changing security rules. Everyone needs them, because making the airport experience less painful means smoother travels, especially during the frantic holiday season.

Travel light and keep smiling, the best airport advice we have.

1. Research what the FAA considers Hazardous.

FAA forbidden hazardous materials include the rubber cement (banned) your kids will use to make glitter Christmas cards for grandma, the old camping stove (banned) you’re cooking the goose on, the aerosol spray starch (banned) for ironing your holiday outfits. But not the aerosol sunblock (approved) your teen bought for his Cancun tan. Go figure.

2. Research the TSA Rules and Remain Flexible.

The TSA Prohibited Items list is totally different than the FAA’s and ever-changing, so you’ll have to check it, too. Kids can carry their scooters aboard, but drones will be disapproved – even from checked luggage -- if their lithium ion battery is 100Wh (watt-hour rating) or more. At present, pies, cakes and turkeys are okay to carry on, but cranberry sauce, dips, jams, and gravy must be checked.

Note that at many airports, there are slow security lanes for families and infrequent travelers, where extra screening is available for infant formula, baby essentials and medications. For questions about other special needs, call TSA Passenger Cares (855/787-2227).

3. Don't giftwrap things.

With security level alerts changing all the time, your day will come when airport personnel want to hand inspect your belongings. During the holidays, several airports including Heathrow (London), La Guardia (New York), and San Diego International provide giftwrap after security, either free of charge or to benefit charity.  Or, carry decorative folding gift bags with you.

4. Pack lightly.

Study up on how to fit everything in with “How to Pack for Any Trip” (Lonely Planet, 2016.) Funny illustrations show how to best fold garments, with packing tips for every type of traveler, every climate and myriad situations.

Avoid packing hassles altogether with clothing full of pockets from Scottevest.com; their men’s Off The Grid Jacket ($215) has 29 pockets to hold your laptop or iPad, an RFID-blocking pocket for a passport or other smart ID and space to fold in clothes. And, with the increase in extended stay hotel brands, Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham and other hotels now have on-site laundry facilities so you don't need to pack as much. That's true on cruise ships, too.

5. Carry on luggage.

In 2016, six checked bags were lost for every 1,000 passengers –- a number that’s declining thanks to self-checking bag kiosks, but a holiday nightmare nonetheless.

Buy yourself and the kids new rollaboards. Even the youngest children are able to carry their weight with Buddy Balls ($19.95), soft and cuddly stuffed teddy bear animals with a secret zippered pocket for storing toddler essentials. It also folds into itself to become a soft-sided ball that little ones can safely play with in a hotel.

6. Don’t bother locking checked luggage.

The TSA, Customs and Border Patrol, and any foreign customs officer will open whatever they want to inspect. Yes, things to get stolen, even when you check your bags at a hotel concierge because your room isn’t ready. Buy travel insurance to cover loss of any belongings.

7. If you do have to check more than one bag, ship your luggage.

Services like SendMyBag.com and the SHYP app can be much cheaper than paying a second bag fee.

8. And smile.

It's contagious.

Urban Lifestylists Get Vacation Planning Ideas

Here's a travel inspiration tool that we enjoyed playing with, so if you're feeling frustrated by the high costs of holiday travel, maybe you should reconsider that 'dream' trip and try again!

Read on for tips on how to select the ideal vacation for a lover of all things urban...

This infographic with urban getaway ideas is from CityPASS. We've long promoted them to families because, well, their pass is such a time and money-saver. Picture the holidays, picture the lines, now erase those lines because CityPASS gives you first in line access to major attractions in a dozen cities. Plus, with CityPASS, you'll save up to 50% on admission to all those famous attractions.

CityPASS booklets/admission cards are available for New York City, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California, Tampa Bay and Toronto. 

(They make great stocking stuffers too!) Shop for your CityPASS now.

K-Pop & K-Culture Star in Korea's Busan One Asia Festival

Among the many fall festivals this season is the world’s largest "K-culture" celebration taking place October 1-23 in Busan, Korea. Known for its long and welcoming Haeundae beach, Busan is a modern city that still has a traditional Korean feel at heart.

Traditional Korean Market in Haeundae, one of Busan's popular tourist sites.

Officially known as the 2016 Busan One Asia Festival, there will be programs, live shows, concerts and a conference focused on K-pop (music), K-food, K-beauty and a variety of popular Korean media content, all in one location. Here's a look at what visitors can expect in a video by the BOF.

The three-week event centers around Hallyu content, a term referring to the very fast and widespread popularity of Korean popular culture, what we would call viral. BOF kicks off with a big K-Pop concert and fan events, as well as a Taste Busan food festival featuring cooking classes by star Asian chefs.

The Korean Wave Star & Beauty Collection runs through October 9, and visitors can virtually meet Korean pop culture stars through holograms, VR or 3D and learn about their beauty secrets. Artists will be on hand to do makeup demonstrations, show off new cosmetics, and present a K-beauty marketplace.


The One Asia Cultural Conference, One Asia Platform and the Running Man Hands on Experience Program take place in the following weeks.

Main stage at the recent Busan Rock Festival, photos courtesy Busan Tourism Office.

On October 23, the last day of the festival, the One Asia Dream Concert will take place as the event’s grand finale.

K-fans can expect to catch Psy (megastar of "Gangnam Style" fame), CNBLUE, B1A4, Apink, Girls’ Day, B.A.P, AOA, BTS, SE7EN, Hwang Chi Yeul, INFINITE, U-Kiss, TWICE, SHINee, GFrined, Gummy and T-ara.


Check out the official BOF website and Facebook page for more details on the schedule and star appearances.

10 Mountain Resorts for Summer Savings

“I came for the winter and stayed for the summer.” I hear it all the time when I visit North America’s top ski resorts. Mountain townies swear by the cool temperatures, clean air and natural beauty of an environment that changes from the stark white of long winters to the lush greenery of all too brief summers. 

Since travelers find lodging and activity rates at 30% to 50% off the peak winter season at these resorts, summer is a great time to try out the mountain lifestyle yourself.  Here are my 10 picks in alphabetical order, and why I chose them from the 51 summer vacation ideas we put together.

 

Jazz Aspen Snowmass Festival, c. Jason Dewey, AspenChamber.org

ASPEN, COLORADO

Aspen, founded in 1880 on the site of a huge silver lode, is the pinnacle of chic mountain resorts, the place where you can join the 1% and play in the fresh air, hike, fish, mountain bike and enjoy the arts. Since 1949, the summertime Aspen Music Festival has brought in more than 300 classical music events (many orchestras are comprised of top students, and there are workshop classes for kids as well.) There are lots of galleries in this pretty Western town, and arts workshops at the celebrated Anderson Ranch for all ages and skill levels – everything from bookmaking to ceramics to furniture making. There’s music at outdoor cafes, lectures and open air concerts; even the produce displayed at the weekly farmer’s market is an aesthetic treasure. Take advantage of the free RFTA transportation between Aspen and Snowmass (6 miles away and itself a famous family ski resort) – especially if you have kids in tow – because there’s another 90 miles of hiking and biking trails, fly-fishing, Class V white-water rafting and kayaking, free Thursday night concerts and special weekend performances. Note that early bookers can score a bargain at the 50 local lodges, where half off winter prices start at $129 per night; rates at Snowmass and outside Aspen village are even more reasonable.

Downtown Breckenridge, photo c. Bob Winsett

BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO

Like Aspen, Breckenridge is an authentic Old West town – founded by gold prospectors in 1859 -- that just happens to have world-class slopes looming above Main Street. Given the young population, success of the Vail Resorts-owned mountain, casual boutiques, and farm to fork eateries, summer in Breck is a non-stop party. The town is comprised of low rise condos, fun dining like Giampietro’s where calzones compete with a video game arcade, ice cream shops, craft breweries like Broken Compass, and health food markets. There’s local hiking, fly fishing (Breckenridge Outfitters beat out 524 other shops to become the Orvis Shop of the Year); cooking classes at Colorado Mountain College, and an on-mountain Summer Fun Park with zip lines, a coaster, and Segway tours. The Breckenridge Ski Resort kids summer camp for ages 5-13 runs June 10 - August 19, 2016; Meta Yoga teaches yoga asanas on standup paddleboards all summer long. The Breck Rec Center, where visiting families pay only $38 for four day passes, has a climbing wall, great pool and waterslide, ball courts, classes and much more. New and casual define the entertainment scene:  the Light + Sound + Water multimedia festival and Bike Week take place in June; the Street Arts Festival is over July 4^th weekend, there’s the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts in August, and Labor Day brings Rubber Duck Races, more arts, and the Sidewalk Sale Days where summer athletes shed their well-used gear. Best yet, free electric buses loop around town, making cars a luxury rather than a necessity. From July 4- October 1, the large Beaver Run Resort on Peak 9 lets you save 25% off when you stay 3 or 4 nights; some restrictions apply.  Checkout the many deals on Adventure Pass activity booklets and  BreckConnection.com is packed with local insight from the passionate townies.

Omni Mt. Washington Hotel at Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

BRETTON WOODS, NEW HAMPSHIRE

The rugged trails of the Presidential Range -- especially Mt. Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast – have lured hikers since the 1800s. Tucked into the dense forest is Bretton Woods, a ski area and mountain resort that has welcomed presidents and dignitaries since its 1902 opening. Today, the Omni Mount Washington Resort maintains that classy mountain experience, with fine service and formal dining awaiting those who hike, fish, mountain bike on the BMX trails, join a guided Polaris Ranger Mountain Tour, golf on the original Donald Ross course, or play on the landscaped grounds. Alternatively, shop in local antique stores, indulge in the new Spa, or partake of afternoon tea and watch brown bears cross the lawn. Saturday afternoons, drop by the hotel’s Prohibition “Tea” Party and learn more about the history of the 19^th Amendment; read up on the 1944 Bretton Woods conference and learn how the World Bank was founded. At night there’s live cabaret after supper. Lincoln, New Hampshire, a half hour’s drive in the Western White Mountains, is the place for souvenirs, zip lines, water parks, mini golf and homemade ice cream; pick up a free Basecamp Card for discounts at local attractions. To save on lodging, book the Omni Bretton Arms Inn where a two-night stay earns 15% off the best available rates plus free breakfast. There are also many BnBs and small motels. 

Outdoor dining in view of the Tetons, from Deck @Piste Restaurant, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING

For more than 50 years, a red gondola flying over the Tetons has symbolized the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and some of the best skiing in the world. In summer, the same aerial tram takes mountain bikes, paragliders, rock climbers and hikers up to Rendevous Mountain for unforgettable 360-degree views of the 50 mile-long Jackson Hole valley, Teton Mountain range, Snake River and Grand Teton National Park. Several lifts serve the slopes for hiking, on-mountain dining and sightseeing in Teton Village, the resort base about 12 miles from Jackson. Sunday afternoons, there’s free music near the playground and pop-jet fountain.  Active visitors will want a Grand Adventure Park Pass ($79) to access the aerial tram, ropes course, bike park, bungee, climbing wall, and the Drop Tower’s 30 and 60-foot high platforms (reached by multiple auto-belay and freefall drop options). July 28-30, enroll in Eric Orto’s Mountain Running Academy and train for the Rendevous Hill Climb in August. This is one of the few mountain towns where summer is busier than winter and prices rise. Make a day trip to Yellowstone, and check out the galleries, saloons, Elk Refuge and log cabin lodges around sleepy Jackson for value, and discover that authentic Wild West feel the area is known for.

Swimming in Mirror Lake, Lake Placid, photo: C. Roost

LAKE PLACID, NEW YORK

Although Lake Placid is best known for hosting the Winter Olympics at Whiteface Mountain (1932 and 1980), summer is the best time to visit. The bustling commercial Main Street circles Mirror Lake in a village surrounded by waterways and the old growth evergreens of stunning Adirondack Park, established by New York State in 1892 and greater in size than Yellowstone, Everglades, Glacier, and Grand Canyon National Parks combined. Get out of town to explore hundreds of hiking trails, ranging from the mild Cobble Hill to the challenging hikes across the 46 High Peaks. Beyond the Cascade Lakes lie the granite walls that draw rock climbers. Dozens of lakes (Lake Placid is actually just north) including Tupper (site of the Tinman Triathlon each June, followed by the Lake Placid Ironman) and Saranac (site of many luxurious Adirondack style estates) are used for canoeing, SUP and whitewater rafting. Golf is popular everywhere, as is fly-fishing on the West Branch of the Ausable River. The whole region is thick with small farm towns, local museums, antique shops selling plaid blankets and plush bears, coffee bars and outdoors outfitters, making Cycle Adirondacks, a weeklong, fully supported bike tour (August 20-27), a great way to see everything. Prefer to relax on a hotel porch in your Adirondack chair? Check out the seasonal specials and pick between free nights or activity packages.

Yoga and Standup Paddleboarding for the ultimate Lake Tahoe workout; photo Chris Bartowski, Tahoe North.

LAKE TAHOE, SQUAW VALLEY

The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe Is nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains on the California / Nevada border. Most of the action is along the north shore, North Lake Tahoe, at 12 mountain resorts, more than 20 beaches and 126 miles of singletrack biking trails, many above 8, 700 feet. The largest resort, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, also called Olympic Valley since hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics, is easily accessed from the Reno, Nevada Airport or Sacramento. In fact, the mountain resort famous for its powder skiing and freestyle snowboarding, skate skiing and kiting, has contributed an athlete to every Winter Olympics since 1964. Repeat visitors head to the many small lakefront communities to enjoy weekend athletic events, races and festivals such as Memorial Days “Made in Tahoe” festival celebrating local artisans, to “Tough Mudder” for bikers, the weeklong “Alpenglow Mountain” exhibit of the latest in outdoor gear, and Wanderlust, combining Zen yoga, wellness and music. Other events celebrate boats, beer and dogs; there’s scheduled SUP classes and yoga on paddleboards, swimming in the crystalline green waters, serene places to kayak, boat rentals, fly-fishing, and an Ironman triathlon. In addition to the supervised Squaw Kids club for ages 5-13, families can partake of yoga in Squaw Village each Wednesday and blues concerts on Tuesday, among the many free Tahoe events. First-timers should take advantage of the facilities and bargain accommodations found in the base villages of North Lake Tahoe’s 12 mountain resorts. The pedestrian-only, purpose built Village in Squaw Valley, for example, offers condo studios starting from $160 per night up to three bedroom suites and posh hotels, like the Resort at Squaw Creek or the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe at nearby Northstar California. mountain resort. That’s the launchpad for nightly Tahoe Star Tours, a guided viewing of five planets seen with Celestron telescopes using astro imaging technology – a unique opportunity in an environment free of light pollution.

Ride a Bobsled in summer at Utah Olympic Park; courtesy Park City Chamber

PARK CITY, UTAH 

Park City is home to the newly combined Canyons and Park City Mountain Resorts, now the largest skiable acreage in the U.S. Summer, however, kicks off June 18 on Main Street in this historic Western town, when every restaurant sets it tables outdoors so that 1,500 can celebrate the season’s bounty with locally sourced, gourmet cuisine at the Savor the Summit festival. In addition to 400 miles of trails maintained for hiking and mountain biking, visitors come to fly over a curved mountain track at 60 mph on the Utah Olympic Park’s signature feature, the Comet Bobsled ride – trained pilot included. Park City lodging ranges from the Sundance crowd’s glamor hotels to bargain condos in town that rent for 40% less than in ski season. Don’t miss the weekly Park Silly Sunday Market where live bands and costumed street buskers entertain chefs, food vendors, craftsmen and tourists. The St. Regis Big Stars Bright Nights concert series featuring Emmylou Harris and Jewel this summer, takes place outdoors at Deer Valley’s amphitheater, where picnics are welcome.

Ziplining at Stowe, Vermont. Photo: Greg Petrics, c. Spruce Peak Realty

STOWE, VERMONT

Stowe is a Vermont favorite for its hip, picturesque town and topnotch ski resort blanketing Spruce Peak and Mt. Mansfield (the highest in the Green Mountains). Hike spectacular views off the unpaved Mt. Mansfield Auto Toll Road, as others have done for the past 150 years. With successful ski, snowboard and leaf peeping seasons, the Stowe Mountain Resort has invested $80 million dollars in summer. Welcome to the Adventure Center and Stowe Rocks climbing gym which add a ZipTour (served by the Skyride Gondola) and a very fun TreeTop Adventure Course (divided into six ability levels) to the activities available at the kids camp, open daily except Sunday for ages 3 to 12. Around town there’s the posh Stoweflake Spa, and small crafts places, markets, pubs and local eateries. Within a 20-minue drive on picture-perfect New England lanes is little Waterbury, home to antiques shops, the Vermont Annex cheddar cheese and maple products store, and small BnBs. Head over to the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory for 20-minute tours and tastings that are well worth the stop, and pay your respects at the Flavor Graveyard where unsuccessful flavors have been laid to rest. Bikers use the lifts at nearby Sugarbush; hikers of all abilities enjoy the scenic 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path where there’s room for biking and in-line skating. The region has golf at an altitude of 1,800 feet and minigolf, tennis, an Alpine slide and more to keep everyone busy.

Le Fete de la Musique, Mont Tremblant, Quebec. Photo courtesy Tremblant.ca

TREMBLANT, QUEBEC

May is start of summer at Tremblant, the stylish resort at the foot of Mont-Tremblant voted #1 Ski Resort in Eastern North America by Ski magazine readers for 18 years in a row. Low rise townhouses with 1,900 units, chic bistros and patisseries, outfitters, an indoor pool complex and casino circle Place Saint-Bernard, the heart of this French Canadian pedestrian village built to serve the ski resort. Outdoor barbecues, live music, and friendly bilingual counselors toting campers to the lake for swim class are typical summer scenes; when it rains, visitors head to Mission Liberte, an escape game with three themed rooms. Tremblant draws weekend crowds to its Gourmand food and wine celebration, Ironman race, Wanderlust concerts and International Blues Festival. From July 22-31, Rythmes Tremblant brings in live rock, country, disco and Latino music. Because it’s located just 90 minutes from Montreal, you’ll save on Tremblant hotels booked weekdays and, if you buy before June 21, take 30% off lodgings, plus unlimited free access to the scenic gondola, at participating establishments. Canada prices have fallen 30% against the American dollar so Tremblant is currently a great value. Another bonus: resort guests will be able to observe the Perseid meteor shower August 12-13 from the village gondola.

Stopping for ice cream at Whistler. Photo c. Mike Crane, Tourism Whistler

WHISTLER, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Canada’s Olympic mountain provides the trails, slopes and gear for hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, canoeing, fishing, and golf on one of four championship courses (pick between greens designed by Robert Cupp, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Jack Nicklaus or Arnold Palmer). What visitors love about Whistler is the cobblestoned car-free, base village packed with comfortable condos and luxury hotels, hip bars and elegant shops. Not sure where to dine, join a Whistler Tasting Tour for stops at four popular eateries. Spa Scandinave combines traditional sweat lodges with frozen plunge pools to kickstart your circulation, likely not needed after your float plane trip, bungee jump, jet boat ride, tree trek or side by side ATV jaunt. Families love the safety of the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for bear-spotting, plus sweeping views of the resort’s lakes and sand beaches. Count on live music nightly, a weekly Farmers Market, and huge events that range from Tough Mudder (June) to Ironman Canada (July) and Cranxworx (August) for freestyle mountain bikers. Take kids to the arts workshops and multimedia performances during Children’s Festival, July 8 – 10. Through October, visitors who stay four nights can save 40% on their condo or hotel (more if they commit to some activities and buy in advance) so, with the 30% discount Americans already enjoy thanks to the strong dollar, this place is an adventurers’ bargain.