rosebud

We've been saving up frequent flyer miles for quite a long time with the intent of going back to Europe. But, as the value of the dollar continues to sink, we're rethinking our plans. We live in Atlanta and have two boys, ages 12 and 7. We're planning a trip for June 2005. I'd love to hear about great trips that your family has taken. We're open to many types of adventures...Hawaii? National Parks? Canada? Carribean? Sometimes the choices seem overwhelming!

Thanks for any great ideas and advice!

utahtea

How long do you have for this trip?

Utahtea

rosebud

Sorry, I should have included timing...we're thinking about 10 days.

bashfulLV

Since it's my all-time favorite place - I'd opt for Hawaii, more specifically, Oahu. With the ages of your children in mind, I think they'd have a great time visiting Oahu. There is so much to do on that island. Many families like staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village because there are a lot of "kid friendly" activities there, but any hotel in Waikiki would probably fit the bill. If you're more interested in being away from the hustle & bustle of Waikiki, you might look into the Marriott Ko'Olina Resort.

In any event, Oahu is filled with things historic which would be interesting and fun for the whole family - like the Iolani Palace, the Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri & Bowfin ships, Polynesian Cultural Center, Hanauma Bay - the list goes on & on. Plus there's the North Shore where the surfing competitions are held and the big waves are.

Chinatown is a neat place to visit. The International Market Place is wonderful - and it's days are numbered because they're tearing it down next year. There are many shopping areas - the swapmeet out at the Aloha Stadium is a great place to get souvineers. Dining in Waikiki/Honolulu offers you anything you might want.

Don't forget all the other activities your family could do - snorkeling, catamaran cruises, surfing lessons, kayaking, relaxing and playing on the beach.

Little_Man

Have you been to Yellowstone? Or Banff? Your 2 boys are a wonderful age for the National Parks...
Yellowstone would make an unforgettable family vacation...
If they want a beach, the Mex. Carribbean is fantastic, and a much shorter and less expensive trip for you than Hawaii.

FainaAgain

A trip to Quebec may be a substitute for France. When I couldn't afford Paris we went to Montreal and Toronto with my (then) 16-year-old son. He loved both cities.

KathyK

I'm not sure what your interests are, but I would recommend a trip to Yellowstone/Grand Teton N.P. and the Jackson area of Wyoming. I'd spend the majority of your time at Yellowstone with at least two days at Grand Teton National Park and a day or two in Jackson. You'll have lots of activities to choose from, including rafting, hiking, horseback riding, etc. Your boys are at nice ages for this type of trip. If they are not particularly outdoorsy, then when they hit their teens this would hold less appeal, so go now if this is a trip you'd like to take.