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! 

15 Top Picks from 51 Great Summer Vacation Ideas

How's your summer going? We're still busy planning some vacation time. If you're in the same boat we are, here’s our pick of the 15 very best summer vacation ideas from the amazing #bestsummer directory issued by FamilyTravelForum.com.  

We love that they’ve done the homework, and we can load our cart with some of the best ideas for our family. In the hopes of providing you with hope for a (somewhat) normal summer vacation, please read on!

ALASKA TOURING  

Meet sled dog puppies on your Holland America land excursions in Alaska. Photo c. HAL 

This year for the second year in a row, there will be no big ships in Alaska as Transport Canada has banned almost all cruise activities in Canadian waters until next February. Families who don’t want to wait until 2022 have the opportunity to see Alaska a different way—and spend more time on land in and around Denali National Park as well as elsewhere. The largest players in the region -- Holland America Line and Princess Cruises -- have committed to operating their Alaska-based lodges this year. Adventure Smith Explorations also offers small-ship and other Alaska adventures, including yachts potentially available just for your group. The  summer of 2019, TakingtheKids.com spent a few magical days kayaking, canoeing and just taking in the views and wildlife  at  the small  (just 18 cabins and 40 guests) at  Kenai Fjords  Glacier Lodge within the national park and accessible only by boat from Seward. And really good news: Denali National Park will allow road trippers to venture farther on their own. Check out one of the state’s newest campground sites, K’esugi Ken RV & Tent Campground, where you can pitch your tent in the shadow of North America’s largest peak. To find more campgrounds and plan your trip, visit TravelAlaska.com.

BLACK HISTORY & CULTURE FOR ALL  

Take the kids to the museums and historic sites around the country that are putting the civil rights struggle in context for 21st century youth. The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC may still be closed but you certainly can visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Open destinations worth the journey include the African American Museum in Philadelphia, the first built by a major U.S. city to interpret the life and work of African Americans, Plan a weekend around the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute or the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis.

CAMPING AT JELLYSTONE PARKS 

Yogi Bear and his pals will soon be your pals when you stay and play at one of the Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts in the US. Photo c. Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts 

So, what if you haven’t been camping since Scouts? Record numbers of families are camping, often for the first time, and Yogi-Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts make it easy. With more than 75 Jellystone Park locations across the US and Canada, you’ll find a campground nearby packed with amazing attractions such as pools, water slides and splash grounds like the Jellystone Park Camp-Resort that Family Travel Forum visited. Hike, fish, explore and take advantage of family activities such as jumping pillows, mini golf and foam parties. Beloved characters Yogi Bear, Boo Boo, Cindy Bear and Ranger Smith from Jellystone make an appearance, too. Accommodations ranging from premium cabins and treehouses to deluxe RV sites and traditional tent campsites suit every family. Book now at www.jellystonepark.com, as prime summer dates are already selling out. Plan ahead for popular theme weekends such as Christmas in July, Chocolate Lovers Weekend and Halloween Spooktacular Weekends. Remember you can borrow or rent, rather than buy, any gear you might need.

CITY LIGHTS IN THE BRIGHTEST CITY  

New York is waking up and welcoming visitors once again, encouraging you to help rebuild the city’s $60 billion tourism industry. One of the summer’s cultural highlights is the outdoors show at the New York Botanical Garden, KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature, showing through Oct. 31, 2021. Immerse yourselves in sculpture and art installations from the famous Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama, who lived in New York from 1958-1973. Kusama’s lifelong obsession with nature, thanks to a childhood spent in the greenhouses and fields of her family’s seed nursery, will find full expression at the NYBG. New monumental sculptures highlight the show; Dancing Pumpkin and I Want to Fly to the Universe make their worldwide debut. Watch for the first-ever obliteration greenhouse, Flower Obsession. Infinity Mirrored Room - Illusion Inside the Heart, a signature Kusama experience in which visitors interact with mirrored walls and the sense of infinite depth, is set to open August 3. NYBG is in the Bronx and is easily accessible by subway or the Metro-North Railway. NYBG is open daily; purchase timed entry tickets online at NYBG as early as possible. At 250 acres, NYBG is quite large so we recommend going early in the day to allow time to see it all and dine at one of the garden’s restaurants.

CRUISING EVERYWHERE

Princess Cruise Line guests use a wearable Medallion Pass as their ID when embarking on their ship at port. Photo c. Princess Cruise Line 

While cruise lines are working to figure out how and when they can start cruising from US ports this summer, they also are getting creative with alternatives. Luxury Seabourn Cruise Line, known for unique all-inclusive cruises on smaller ships, will be cruising in Greece and from Caribbean ports this summer. Holland America is finding great interest in their Alaska land tours this summer while offering value-added amenities on 2022 cruises, including half-off drinks, WiFi, excursions and dining. Additionally, they are scheduling weeklong Greece and Mediterranean cruises between August and November aboard the Eurodam. And Princess Cruises, for those planning ahead, is touting deals that include drinks, gratuities and with your Medallion wearable, flexible new Dine My Way schedules. MedallionNet is super charged WiFi internet connectivity that leverages a new constellation of satellites, if you can’t leave work behind. Plan ahead as most cruise lines will require passengers to be fully vaccinated before boarding.

DISNEY NEWS

Disneyland and California Adventure Park have reopened to Californian residents and hope to open to all later this summer. As at Walt Disney World, there is limited capacity, fewer shows and no character meet and greets, though additional parades and pop ups have been added. At the Orlando theme parks, guests like the virtual lines for rides and ordering food via a Disney Experience App so that it is ready when you arrive. There are also new attractions -- like Micky and Minnie’s Runaway Railway in Disney’s Hollywood Studies, the first time the world’s two most famous mice have been featured in an attraction. The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Show runs until July 5, followed by the Food and Wine Festival July 15-Nov. 20 while EPCOT undergoes a multi-year transformation. Disney Cruise Line has announced new itineraries and its much-anticipated new ship Disney Wish that will begin cruises to the Bahamas next summer complete with the first AquaMouse water attraction, a revamped Oceaneer’s Club, new restaurants, including a Frozen dinner theater and more adults-only options, including a Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge with otherworldly concoctions. 

EUROPE RIVER AND CANAL CRUISES

Gift the family a barge trip on a French canal with Croisieurope. 

River and canal barge cruising continue to grow in popularity, letting more guests experience more European destinations aboard the comfort of a floating hotel. For families, the formula seems right: All included amenities, visiting many ports without the need to pack and unpack each day, and variety of tours for all interests mean a worry-free vacation for parents. Customize a barge trip for your group of up to 22 for the ultimate in social distancing. CroisiEurope welcomes families on board all cruises: Children under 2 travel free, under 10 at a reduced rate year-round. Cabins for singles, doubles, triples and quadruples mean every size family can be accommodated. Kids under 16 travel free in Spain, Portugal and Italy – and at 30% off fares in Croatia and Montenegro on summer departures. Vaccinated families should consider the special offers on their current departure schedule. Activities for families are built into the itinerary, so it’s the relaxing way to experience Europe. Here’s a review of a recent CroisiEurope Duoro River cruise in Portugal.

KANSAS, GEM OF I-70

With road trips all the rage this summer, many families are likely to drive part of their route along I-70, a central component of the US Interstate System founded by President Eisenhower’s Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956. What many families don’t realize is just how much fun the stops along I-70 in Kansas can be. It’s more than 500 miles of 18-wheelers and corn fields. Kansas boasts classic small towns with huge artworks; talk about the summer of Van Gogh – have you seen Goodland, Kansas’ 80-foot-tall “Three Sunflowers in a Vase?” Other places worth a stop along I-70 include cinemas, arts festivals, military forts and local history museums to ease the road trip boredom for passengers of every age and interest. Read more about Kansas’s roadside attractions to plan just where your family will stay the night.

MEXICO AND CARIBBEAN RESORTS

The Seabourn Odyssey is moored offshore in the Caribbean. Photo c. Seabourn 

Summer traditionally has been considered family season in Mexico and the Caribbean; wild sales and kids stay free packages at all-inclusives are the norm. However, each destination has different entry requirements and even vaccinated travelers may be required to show a negative COVID test result for entry. Order Let’s Get Checked home COVID-19 testing kits by mail, now approved for minors (aged 2 and over) for at-home Covid-19 testing, using this 30% off COVID testing link. Note that travelers from most international destinations will have to present a valid negative COVID-19 test to enter the US. We also recommend family travel insurance to anyone booking resorts during the June to November hurricane season. Jamaica offers options from staffed villas to all-inclusive resorts like Beaches, known for their commitment to children on the Autism Spectrum, to Half Moon Bay with the chance to swim with horses, and Golden Eye, where Ian Fleming famously wrote the Bond books and where you can take your pick staying in a beach “hut” or two-bedroom villa. Families interested in a cruise to more off the beaten path islands should plan ahead to November, when the luxury Seabourn line resumes award-winning 7- to 21-day cruises to the Caribbean, with 10% off for early bookers.  

ORLANDO

Yup. The world’s theme park capital is open and welcoming families with new attractions as well as enhanced COVID-19 safety protocols. For those planning ahead, Walt Disney World will celebrate the resort’s 50th anniversary starting Oct. 1 and continuing for 18 months. (Follow #DisneyWorld50 on social media platforms.) Of course, a visit will be different this year, requiring masks and advance reservations. The kids won’t be able to hug their favorite characters. We’re Orlando fans because in addition to the theme parks, there’s so much else to do: great outlet mall shopping, several small art museums, lots of fun dining experiences and plenty new outside the parks too. Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Festival is the first socially distanced music festival in the U.S., offering everything from music performances to comedy shows to big-name concerts, through May. The Museum of Illusions Orlando offers 50 interactive, immersive and mentally deceptive exhibits based on math, science, and psychology. Dezerland Park, an all-new indoor attraction on International Drive, boasts a trampoline park and the longest indoor dual go-karting tracks in Florida. There are also plenty of options for free things to do outdoors, from farmers markets to Sunday morning yoga in the 43-acre Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. Play outside at the 20-plus mile West Orange Trail (rent bikes from West Orange Trail Bikes & Blades Co., which offers delivery to area hotels) and the Nemours Family Zone at the US Tennis Association National Campus. (Play for free but you must pre-register!)

RIVER RAFTING AND AQUATIC ADVENTURES

Keep cool -- no need to carry on with your paddling when you're on an escorted river trip with OARS. Photo c. OARS 

The legendary outfitter OARS has been sharing the world’s great rivers with guests since 1969, contributing more than $5 million in donations and fees toward the preservation of the environment and to various conservation initiatives since the company’s inception. After an abbreviated and challenging 2020 season, OARS is looking forward to fun, low-stress whitewater conditions for many of the family-friendly rafting trips they offer in the West. They're forecasting lower, but reliable water levels this summer for popular river trips like Utah’s Green River through Gates of Lodore and Desolation Canyon, which can count on water releases from upstream reservoirs. Five-day family trips (minimum age 7) for Green River Rafting through Desolation Canyon promise more than 50 Class II and III rapids. OARS experts say that in California, a mild winter and statewide snowpack that’s at 59% the normal average isn’t expected to heavily impact rafting on dam-controlled rivers like the American River and the Tuolumne River. The 3-day Lower Klamath Trip departing Happy Camp, California is ideal for young adventurers ages 4+. From June to mid-August, families are guaranteed warm and gentle Class II rapids, easy rafting, fishing and fully supported camping along the Klamath River. Due to the region’s rich Gold Rush history, discovering gold may be a highlight of the trip. For 2021, expect many of the same COVID-19 protocols that were put in place last summer to minimize the risk of transmission on the river. For more information on OARS’ eco-friendly adventures, visit www.oars.com or call 800/346-6277.

SKI COUNTRY SUMMERS

An off season ski resort condo should be a bargain whether you choose Steamboat Springs in Colorado for its weekly rodeos and free concerts or Lake Tahoe for yoga paddleboarding. In Park City, Utah, spend summer careening down an alpine coaster or facing the Olympic bobsled track. Hike and mountain bike through Montana’s Big Sky or Oregon’s Mt. Hood regions, among many other almost-four-season resorts. The good news is that lodging is a lot cheaper in summer at snow resorts  and more on-mountain activities are returning this summer, like the Lost Forest at the top of Snowmass’ Elk Gondola. You don’t need a pricey lift ticket to hike or bike – but they are great value for scenic sightseeing with less fit family members. It likely won’t be as hard to get into the top restaurants either. Here’s an account of celebrating a pre pandemic July 4th weekend in Vail.

SPLURGE BY PLANNING AHEAD WITH ATLAS

Watch Juvenile Southern Seals fight for dominance with a show of strength on your Antarctica expedition. Photo by Michel Verdure for Atlas Ocean Voyages. 

For many American families, this summer will be about staying local and saving up for a really big bucket list vacation. With nearly 15 months to think about what could be the most amazing destination ever, Antarctica is topping many wish lists. While several expedition companies are touting their special sailings, none compares with the luxurious new offering from Atlas Ocean Voyages. Families set sail for Antarctica aboard World Navigator, Atlas’ Polar Category C- and Ice Class 1B-certified ship, after a private flight from Orlando to Ushuaia, Argentina. Fewer than 200 fellow explorers join naturalists and experts dedicated to helping you and kids ages 10+ get the most out of your refined adventure. You can even make or renew wedding vows at ‘the end of the world’ on the Valentine’s Day 2022 departure. Atlas’ wedding package is complimentary for guests when registered in advance plus, the bride enjoys a 50% stateroom savings when the wedding party books five or more rooms. As with all Atlas luxe-adventure expeditions, guests travel in the brand’s signature All Inclusive All The Way style, which, on Antarctica expeditions, includes all meals, beverages, activities, shore excursions and more. Their flexible travel policy also provides travelers a 100% refund of deposited funds up to 91 days prior to sailing. Plan now because you can change your reservation as often as you want, and even switch to a different Atlas itinerary, up to 15 days before your voyages’ sail date.

UTAH HIGH WITH MOAB ADVENTURES

The Moab Adventure Center will help you achieve new heights when adventuring in Arches, Canyonlands or the great outdoors around Moab, Utah. Photo c. Moab Adventure Center 

Moab Adventure Center focuses on day tours and adventures, whether you want to river raft, take an off-road Hummer safari, hike with a guide in Arches National Park, horseback ride, have a unique mountain biking adventure or raft in Cataract Canyon. They’re family welcoming too, with Hummer safari tours available to ages 3+ and laidback rafting trips for ages 5+ and 50 lbs. Enjoy each of their adventures knowing safety protocols have been put in place to maintain a safe and fun environment. Moab is a very popular, eastern Utah mountain town that can get crowded, making Moab Adventure Center the easiest way to reserve any outdoor experience without worry or stress—and get out of your comfort zone trying something new!

WILMINGTON AND DELAWARE’S BIDEN COUNTRY

Start your tour of Biden Country in Newark at The Biden Welcome Center, a visitor’s center packed with maps and brochures about the state the 46th president has called home for years. Renamed for the entire Biden family and their service to Delaware prior to the election, it reminds us that even the Wilmington railroad station is named after the First Commuter who was nicknamed “Amtrak Joe.” Did you know that both the Bidens and reggae legend Bob Marley lived in Wilmington’s Eastlake neighborhood? From the estates of the du Pont family which have become fantastic museums of American arts and crafts to the casual, homey eateries that the President and his family still frequent, the first state is full of surprises every family will enjoy. And no, the St. Joseph on the Brandywine Church in Greenville was not named after the president.

Note that this summer, vaccinated Americans traveling within the US won’t need COVID-19 testing or post-travel self-quarantine as long as they continue to wear masks indoors, avoid crowds, social distance and wash hands frequently. Additionally, vaccinated travelers will likely be safely allowed to travel in many European countries. Travelers going to destinations that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test should take advantage of our partnership with Let’s Get Checked to get home COVID-19 testing kits by mail, now approved for minors (aged 2 and over.) Use our 30% discount COVID testing link and get results back in 72 hours or less.

Let us know where you’re off to!

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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Pluto Ushers in Dog Friendly Era at Disney World Hotels

In big news from the happiest place on earth, Walt Disney World started welcoming pets to four of its on-site hotels on Sunday, October 15, 217.

In time for Halloween, you say? Well, perhaps that's because it is mascot Pluto's favorite holiday.

According to our source, the designated pet-friendly hotels are:

• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
• Disney Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Photo courtesy Walt Disney World Media Relations

The new service permits up to two dogs per guest room. Each resort also offers easy access to outdoor pet exercise areas and green spaces with pet relief areas.

At check-in, guests with four-legged guests will receive "Pluto’s Welcome Kit" -- an amenity kit for owners that includes a mat, bowls, a pet ID tag, courtesy plastic disposable bags, puppy pads and dog walking maps. Your dog will love the Pluto “Do Not Disturb” door hanger indicating to hotel staff that a pet is in the room.

Day care and other pet services, for a fee, are offered nearby at Best Friends, an on-property full-service pet care facility. And it would not be Disney without an announcement that pet merchandise will be coming soon. According to our source, dogs staying in a Disney resort guest room "must be well behaved, leashed in resort public areas and properly vaccinated." Keep in mind that pets are not welcome in the theme parks. You may have to hide your slippers, because Pluto will have your guestroom to himself for several hours.

The resorts’ per night/per room pet-cleaning rates are $50 per night in addition to room rates at each of the hotels, with the exception of Disney’s more posh Yacht Club Resort, which charges $75 each night.

For more information about this  dog-friendly trial program, including other restrictions and policies, contact 407 W-DISNEY or visit Disneyworld.com. DVC Members should contact Disney Vacation Club Member Services at 800/800-9800.

Let us know how you it goes!

Eclipse Watching Tips from the Experts

Getting ready for the total solar eclipse coming to the United States on Monday, August 21st?

We are! We're super excited about what families will be able to see of this natural phenomenon, whether it's a partial solar eclipse or the Full Monty: a Total Solar Eclipse. The difference for viewers in the United States is that the sun will be partially or fully obscured from view by the moon crossing in front of it, with differing levels of drama.

Tyson, Faherty and Rao discuss Total Solar Eclipse at AMNH Press Conference, Aug 14, 2017

At yesterday's press conference at the American Museum of Natural History, a panel comprised of three scientists: Neil deGrasse Tyson, Frederick P. Rose Director of the Hayden Planetarium; Jackie Faherty, senior scientist and senior education manager, Department of Astrophysics; and Joe Rao, Hayden Planetarium associate and guest lecturer, meteorologist for Verizon FIOS1 News; shared their enthusiasm for the total solar eclipse experience.

As they put it, "On August 21st, we are hosting the shadow of the Moon across the United States."

Each of the three experts recounted their own eclipse viewing experiences, and advised everyone to put a Total Solar Eclipse on their travel bucket list. The goal is to be in the viewing region known as "The Path of Totality" which will be a 70-mile wide band across the United States. Even though the Moon is 400 times closer to the Earth than the sun, and will be moving across the Sun at 1,000 mph, people who can see the Moon pass between the Earth and the Sun when they are exactly aligned will see "Totality," when the Moon fully "blocks" the sun.

If you've already been studying up on your astronomy at the country's many special observatories and planetariums, it should all make sense. This event happens approximately every 18 months, and only lasts a few minutes, but it has not occured within view of the United States since1932.

Computer animation of view from Earth as Moon crosses in front of the Sun. c. AMNH

Eclipse watchers, wherever they are, can use the NASA site to find out what time their viewing spot will be in the shadow of the moon. "It may only last a few.minutes ..." said Jackie, "However, being in such close contact with the Moon (through its shadow), because it's an object we see every day, is awesome."

The museum's panel also reassured New Yorkers -- and others who would not be in the Path of Totality -- that a partial eclipse would be a very special experience, too. Likening it to the passing of the Death Star, Jackie noted that it felt very unnatural to watch something blocking the sun from view. Both scary and thrilling. Each noted that spectators might hear birds chattering and see animals turning to their evening behavior, as if the sun had set earlier than usual.

"Put down your iPhone," said Tyson. "Experience it emotionally, physchologically and physically," he added.

If you aren't going to be in the zone predicted by NASA.gov, here are some fun ways to get out and see it, and what you can expect.

Of course, if you are in New York City, you can check out the many programs the American Museum of Natural History has planned for that day, including a live stream of the event explained by scientists located within the Path of Totality.

Here's a quick video of Joe Rao offering suggestions on how to best view a total or partial eclipse.

Tyson, celebrated host of the PBS show, "Cosmos," had tips for viewing as well. He suggested those without quality eye protection should head outside with a spaghetti colander. If held up to the sun, the drain holes one the colander can serve as pinhole cameras, and project myriad views of the eclipse on the ground, or better yet, a white sheet below you.

Enjoy and let us know what you saw!

Photos & video: courtesy Ron Bozman.

What We Learned at IPW

 Or, One Big Welcome from the Travel Industry

Between June 2- June 7, 2017, more than 6,300 international travel buyers, American sellers and international media representing 70 countries met in Washington DC at IPW. The travel convention, formerly known as International Pow Wow in a nod to the world’s affection for America’s cowboy and Indian mythology, is one of the industry’s largest gatherings; the place to sell the “See the USA” message to foreign tour operators, agents and media.  

Media Marketplace encouraged global media to meet with U.S. destinations.

As hosts U.S. Travel and Brand USA repeatedly remarked, at no time in IPW’s 49-year history is it so important for foreigners to feel welcomed in the nation’s capital. 

Travel Media More Diverse than Ever

Media were invited to IPW’s opening brunch at the Newseum, a fascinating museum celebrating the 24-hour news cycle, classic print journalism and freedom of the press. 

The booming hiphop of Rare Essence highlighted the diversity of international media voices – who was bouncing, who networked, who sought earplugs -- as much as the universality of music, underscoring the IPW theme of “One Big Welcome.”

Media had one-on-one appointments with destinations at IPW's Media Day

The Value of USA’s Self Promotion

Chris Thompson talked to delegates as president & CEO of Brand USA, the country’s public-private marketing organization whose funding is now in question. His numbers spoke loudly about the value of travel promotion, because Brand USA is already active in the 40 markets that include 90% of all inbound travel to the USA. In the past 4 years, they have seen an increase of more than 4.3 million visitors who spent an additional $14 billion in the U.S., representing an estimated $30 billion in economic impact and 51,000 more jobs. 

Brand USA’s upcoming promotions include a new website that focuses on easing trip planning and a new film about US culture and music, “American Treasures,” hosted by performer Aloe Blacc. Shooting in IMAX, it follows the success of the award-winning "National Parks Adventure," currently showing in 400 markets around the world. Videos about different regions narrated by locals and tagged with #visittheusa are also being produced for social channels. Additionally, we learn that 2017 is a year of US-India Travel and Tourism Partnership, to boost visitation from a country which last year sent the US 1.3 million visitors valued at $11.8 billion.

The Trump Administration’s View of Travel

IPW delegates volunteered with Tourism Cares in a clean up dasy at the National Mall.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross addressed a skeptical crowd at lunch. “On behalf of President Trump,” he said, “I am glad to extend one big welcome to you.” While acknowledging that inbound tourism was dropping, he noted that the high cost of the US dollar was presenting a challenge for many in the audience and suggested that travel sellers promote “some low cost, lesser known but not less interesting destinations” to foreign visitors.  

“This administration recognizes the power of travel as an enabling platform for business, a gateway to education, and a bridge to bring people together,” he said.

After several references to the importance of security, he closed with, “America is open for business, America is open for travel and open to the millions of international visitors who wish us well.”

E-TurboNews reported that Roger Dow praised Secretary Ross’ comments, saying, “In honesty, a number of people probably walked into the room with misgivings about this administration’s views on international visitors, but I’m certain they walked out encouraged that the U.S. government grasps the immense value of inbound travelers.” 

What Effect is the Trump Effect Having?

After several discussions of the IPW message of welcoming the world, and of the US Travel Association’s efforts at keeping America’s doors open to travelers, Roger Dow, USTA Chairman, shared the latest travel research. Surprisingly, it showed that foreign travel to the US is stronger than expected. 

According to the USTA’s Travel Trends Index, April 2017 saw international travel up by 4% over the same month in 2016. 

According to Dow, USTA research indicates that the average international visitor arrives in the United States after 56.9 days of planning, indicating that April 2017 numbers would be the earliest indicator of world travelers' reaction to the administration’s January and February 2017 travel bans. 

Hopefully, April’s inbound tourism results are the beginning of a positive trend. Given all the unwelcoming rhetoric coming from the president, perhaps the industry's “One Big Welcome” message is working, after all. 

How to Get Free Flights on Spirit Airlines

It's not often that Spirit Airlines, the notoriously cheap low cost carrier, gives anything away.

In fact, they like to boast that, on average, their fares are 30% less than other airlines. They love to promote their "unbundled, stripped-down Bare Fare" and "Frill Control" which allows fliers to pay only for the options they choose – like bags, seat assignments and refreshments.

Photo courtest Spirit Airlines

And maybe the Bare Fare is the most relevant to this story, as on a recent flight, a passenger gave birth to a baby boy. We'll let Spirit Airlines share the happy story.

"Experiencing a little turbulence during air travel is not uncommon.  But giving birth to a baby during a flight is a whole different kind of turbulence.  That’s what took place on a recent Spirit flight.  Originally, Spirit flight 971 was to go from Ft. Lauderdale to Dallas/Ft. Worth. But about thirty minutes into the flight, Cristina Penton of Phoenix, Arizona, who was 36 weeks pregnant, told flight attendants she wasn’t feeling well and asked for medical assistance.

“Everything started happening very quickly,” said Penton. “I didn’t think I was having the baby because it was too soon, but after a few minutes I knew I needed medical attention. The flight attendants contacted doctors on the ground and they advised the flight attendants to see if there were any medical personnel on board.  As it turned out there was a pediatrician and a nurse.  Soon after that, it was clear I was having my baby, and I was in pure panic.”

According to Spirit's PR team, the flight was diverted to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport (MSY), and emergency medical crews were summoned to meet the plane upon arrival.  However, before the plane could land, baby Christoph Lezcano was born on the aircraft.  He weighed in at an even 7 pounds and was 19.5 inches tall. Both were taken to Ochsner Medical Center in Kenner, Louisiana.  Both mother and baby are fine.

“A baby being born during a flight is very rare,” said Spirit spokesman, Paul Berry.  “But our flight attendants are trained to handle medical emergencies in flight and they have access to doctors on the ground via inflight communication.  In this case we were fortunate to also have a pediatrician on board who brought even more care and comfort to the situation.”

“The Spirit crew was very attentive and took care of me throughout the flight,” added Penton.  “They helped make what could have been a terrible situation as good as it could possibly be.”

Today, representatives from Spirit Airlines met Cristina and baby Christoph at Ochsner Medical Center in Kenner, Louisiana, to deliver some gifts including free flights for Christoph and a guest to anywhere Spirit flies on his birthday, for life. The airline is also planning a special sale in honor of Christoph.

Now that's a happy ending for him, his family, and the rest of the flying public.

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.