A hand across the sea please?
 

We're an English family who love the States - we're three males, all active types, aged 47, 16 & 13, & one very unfit mum (44) into peace, quiet, beautiful scenery & writing. This might be our last proper family holiday together before our eldest refuses to join us anymore - where to go? Our trip must be taken 15 August for two weeks. We 'did Orlando' when they were small, which was great fun, plus a brilliant motorhome trip two years ago taking in a fair bit of California, Las Vegas & the Grand Canyon. <BR> <BR>We'd like something not too humid, a lake, river or ocean setting preferably with jetskiing or the like in an area which will satisfy easily bored teenagers. We want to park ourselves in one place (or maybe a two-centre trip) rather than travel around loads, although a small amount of driving would be fine. Ideally we'd like to rent a nice cabin or suchlike in a quiet picturesque setting but with stuff nearby. East might be better than West this time but we're open to any suggestions. Our best day on our last trip was spent speedboating with a tube behind us on the Colorado River at Topock Gorge in Arizona. Heavenly. <BR> <BR>Asking a lot, I know, but is there an ideal place out there for us?!! Any help VERY much appreciated. Health permitting, the older two amongst us plan to do a long trip in a motorhome across the States when the kids have left home, so all info is useful to us for that reason also. Thanks muchly! <BR>

<BR>"peace, quiet, beautiful scenery...", hmmmm, sounds like the Pacific Northwest might do it for you. Start with No. Calif., come up the coast to Oregon, Wash., continue up to Vancouver BC, the San Juans.

Know there are wonderful places back East as well, but your question says Lake Tahoe (lots and lots of rental condos available), Mt. Shasta area or the Mendochino Coast of California combined with a few days in San Francisco. Plenty of beauty, low humidity, water (although jet skies have just been banned at Tahoe),hiking etc. and then the nicest city in the U.S. with plenty for everyone to do, San Francisco. Enjoy. Let us know what you finally decide.

Hilary, <BR> <BR>If it is a cabin not too far or too close from larger towns/cities that you want, then Michigan is the place to find it. <BR>I grew up in Michigan and love to promote the state. It is much larger and more diverse than just the city of Detroit. <BR>We spent summers at Torch Lake near Travese City in Western Michigan and Alpena, I believe it was the "chain of lakes" in Eastern Michigan (both in the lower peninsula). We rented cabins on lakes and would swim/boat and fish for the week. We would also go to Traverse City and Alpena for a trip to a "city". I know that there must be motor boat rentals on the lakes. The Great Lakes are also quite a site. We swam in Lakes Superior, Michigan, and Huron. My dad went "deep sea" fishing in those lakes also. <BR> <BR>We once took a driving holiday from the Detroit suburbs ( where we lived) to Mackinaw Island to Sault St. Marie (the Soo Locks) in the UP to Marquette then south and back around to Mackinaw Island. The Pictured Rocks along Munising in the UP (Upper Peninsula) is something I will always remember. Also Tequamenon (sp?) Falls is quite nice. <BR> <BR>Please feel free to email me with any questions you may have. <BR> <BR>kittie <BR> <BR> <BR>

Hilary, two places come to mind right away. I would second Lake Tahoe in the Sierras. It has everything you want and more. It's a wonderful and beautiful place with tons of variety, plus quiet ad scenic spots everywhere you look. Also, Park City, Utah. Very popular year round. Lots and lots to do. They have a fantastic Music and Art Festival in August. Lots of condos to rent, good restaurants, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, etc., etc. You can go over to the Olympic venues and watch the freestyle aerialists practice! Salt Lake and Reno (for Tahoe) are both very easy to fly into. Feel free to e mail if you would like more info.

Hilary, I'm in love with England, so I felt compelled to respond. I would suggest somewhere either in NY State Upstate or New England. Ny State has wonderful lakes and qauint little towns around the lakes, you might look into the Finger Lakes, Lake George or the Adirondacks, also, if you did the Finger Lakes you would be very close to Niagara Falls, which is spectacular. Have been several times, and can help if you need any info. Second, I would think about NE, there are some great lakes in New Hampshire and Vermont, and also Maine. Depending on how much time you want to spend, you could also take in Boston, and some of the surrounding areas. Also, you could fly into Boston. I lived in Boston for 5 years, so feel free to ask me any questions, you might have.

Wow! I've just seen all the wonderful info - thanks so much to everyone. I'm going to go through it properly tomorrow when I have more time but meanwhile I just want to add that after I posted my message I checked out the Pocono Mountains and it looks like a distinctly possible area for our family, possibly combined with a trip to Lancaster, and/or even a day or two in New York (went years ago but kids have never been). Just wondered if anyone had any views on this idea? Thanks again. Please feel free to ask about the UK if you need to and I'll help if I can.

Another possibility you might want to consider is Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. It's a beautiful, large lake (about 25 miles long) with many islands, surrounded by mountains. It's really gorgeous, and a great place for water or jet skiing, sailing, etc. It's also close to the coast, so you'd be a short drive to many wonderful and scenic locations on the ocean, from the coast of Maine to Cape Ann in Massachusetts (one of my favorite beaches is Crane Beach, just north of Cape Ann, with miles of beautiful sandy beach and dunes). It's also only about two hours from the lake to Boston, which is a great city to visit. You have the advantage here of having lake, mountains, and ocean in close proximity. I also understand Sebago Lake in Maine is nice, although I've never been there. Have a great trip, whatever you decide!

Boston is a great idea with your kids. It would be fun for folks from the UK to hear our version of the Revolutionary War... <BR>Someone else had suggested the Cape. The Northeast is so beautiful and Cape Cod is great. Also you could consider Newport RI where you can rent jet skis, but also do calm things like tour the famous summer "cottages" of the Vanderbilts and Whitneys. <BR>New York is always great too. You'll be happy to see how much cleaner and safer it is since you last visited. Plus with a teenager you'll know for sure he'll be totally and worn out by the experience!! <BR>

Just wondering how much humidity matters to you because all of the other posts, while beautiful, involve higher humidity and warmer weather than Tahoe. Will be interested to know what you finally decide.

Acutally Lake Tahoe may not be a very good choice. We have stayed there many times but we go for the casinos as well as the mountain stuff. There is not very much for teenagers to do except hike. The water is too cold for swimming. Boating and jet skiing has been severely restricted. <BR> <BR>The California coast offers many opportunities. The Santa barbara area is great as there is much to see and do in the area nd you can still find some peace and quiet. The water is warm enough to go swimming in the ocean. Any farther north, the ocean is too cold. <BR> <BR>The Pacific Northwest also has many places that would probably fit the bill.

How about renting a houseboat on Lake Shasta? You can also rent a speedboat whenever you want to ski or go tubing. The waterways are endless to explore and you can stop where you like and hike, or visit the local caverns. You can also tour the dam. The houseboats are nice and easily sleep six/more. You can set your own pace, do as you please, and eat as you wish. You can go to Redding for a little shopping, or night-life. <BR>

Me again, hi. If anyone's out there and remotely curious about what I've decided, this is it. I've decided I desperately need a holiday to get over the stress of trying to find any time to organise a holiday. I'm busier than an ant at a picnic at the moment but am determined to wrap this up asap, not least because there'll be no availability left if I don't hurry up. Still, mustn't grumble. I imagine the odd Kosovan wouldn't mind being in my position.

Hilary, you could take any of the above responses at random and have a marvelous vacation in the States; they're all excellent choices. <BR> <BR>Thinking about your timing, ages of the children, and previous travel, though, let me offer a few comments: 1) the Poconos are a somewhat faded resort area (think Brighton) that may bore your kids. 2) Apart from Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, humidity ought not to be a big problem at the end of August. In New England, for example, those two weeks are among the most pleasant of the year. 3) Those two weeks, however, are the last two weeks before Labor Day and thus, big vacation times for families here. <BR> <BR>Sara's suggestion of Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire might be exactly what you're looking for. All of the watersports, scenery, and same-aged kids to check out; yet it's an easy day trip to Boston, the ocean, or the outlet malls of Maine (if you are so inclined). The area is rich in American history, full of mountains, and very friendly people. <BR> <BR>If you're looking for more information, let me know and I'll be pleased to make a few calls on your behalf. <BR>

Hilary, you could take any of the above responses at random and have a marvelous vacation in the States; they're all excellent choices. <BR> <BR>Thinking about your timing, ages of the children, and previous travel, though, let me offer a few comments: 1) the Poconos are a somewhat faded resort area (think Brighton) that may bore your kids. 2) Apart from Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, humidity ought not to be a big problem at the end of August. In New England, for example, those two weeks are among the most pleasant of the year. 3) Those two weeks, however, are the last two weeks before Labor Day and thus, big vacation times for families here. <BR> <BR>Sara's suggestion of Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire might be exactly what you're looking for. All of the watersports, scenery, and same-aged kids to check out; yet it's an easy day trip to Boston, the ocean, or the outlet malls of Maine (if you are so inclined). The area is rich in American history, full of mountains, and very friendly people. <BR> <BR>If you're looking for more information, let me know and I'll be pleased to make a few calls on your behalf. <BR>

Just to be a little helpful, take a look at this website -- try asking them about houseboat rentals. <BR> <BR>http://www.shastavacations.com/options.html <BR>

<BR>&lt;A HREF="http://www.shastavacations.com/options.html"&gt;shasta&lt;/A&gt; <BR> <BR>just an e

I highly recommend you choose Maine. It definitely meets your desire for quiet and beautiful scenery, and the ocean offers lots of active opportunities for your sons. Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are particularly nice. There is great hiking here and you can take whale-watching tours nearby. A friend and I spent 10 days in August of 1997 in Maine and Nova Scotia and had an incredible time. The towns in Maine we stayed in were Camden (wonderful!), Boothbay Harbor (at a great place called the Lawnmeer Inn) and Bar Harbor. (We flew into Boston and drove from there -- it's only a few hours' drive, depending on which part of Maine you're going to.) If you like lobster and other seafood you'll be in heaven. The weather is great -- warm during the day and cool at night. Acadia National Park is rugged and lovely -- drive to the top of Mt. Cadillac at sunset for an unbeatable view. Check out the website www.visitmaine.com for more info.

Must agree about New England, although living here I am partial. <BR> <BR>Bottom line, within a few hours of one another you have The City of Boston, The Cape Code Shoreline, The Mountains of New Hampshire, The Beauty of Vermont and The Maine Coastline. Not to mention Connecticut & Rhode Island. Whatever you choose, I hope you have a great time. <BR> <BR> <BR>

I must agree with Neal and Carrie; New England (Maine or Lake Winnepasaukee) are your best bets; the Poconos have long ago lost their luster and appeal. I hope you'll let us know what you decide to do and how it all came out! <BR>

Hilary, <BR> <BR>I agree with Neal and Sara. I also live in suburban Philadelphia, very close to Poconos. Honestly I would not vacation there for even a weekend, and think you have much better options as mentioned in prior posts. Lancaster, PA is charming, but only for a day or two. Think if you ever fly into New York, you could stay in Philadelphia and take a train to Lancaster...but that is for another trip. <BR>Having traveled with teenagers, this is a 'sticky wicket'... <BR>Thinking perhaps Boston then on to Nantucket...also think Neal and Sara have excellent suggestions. <BR>Your mention of 'brilliant' reminds me of my dear friend who lives in London! <BR>I just cannot endorse the Poconos, even though located in my home state. <BR>Elaine

If anyone's there, hello again. I've finally found five minutes to say that we've now abandoned the Poconos (we were going there!) and are looking seriously at Lake Winnipesaukee etc. All your other suggestions have been carefully noted for future trips so many many thanks for those, but on this occasion we've decided we'd prefer the East Coast - the flight's shorter for one thing! I'm now just trying to figure out how best to split our trip, and may come back again to the N.H. experts amongst you if that's okay .... not right now though as it's my birthday & I'm having a rare few hours off from the kids amdram show I've been so involved in producing lately (only two weeks to go!) & am being taken out to lunch. It's a tough life but someone has to live it .... <BR> <BR>Thanks again to everyone.

Quickie response to Sophie - brilliant e-mail address. Love it! <BR> <BR>

Neal's "no humidity" remarks to the contrary, as Brits, you really do need to be prepared for some much hotter (and very possibly humid) weather than you're used to if you do any of the cities mentioned. Not to say you shouldn't go ahead with whatever plan you make, but temps here (esp on e. coast and midwest) are ever so much warmer than what is typical in Britain. Do keep us posted on what you decide - All the posts have sure stirred my wanderlust. (We're planning a September driving trip east, and I can't wait!)

Me again. Raeona, tks, just thought I'd say that this humid thing only came about because we were considering Florida again at one point and got put off by people saying August was just TOO hot. We can take a fair amount of heat, just didn't want 100 in the shade or anything. Surprisingly it can get pretty humid in Britain on occasions ... I have a 'tropical' plant in my garden that's grown beyond belief these last few years! <BR> <BR>Re our plans, we decided on two full days in Boston, a few days on the Maine coast, and a week in the N.H. lake/mountain area. I'm waiting to hear back on e-mailed cottage rental enquiries for Lake Winnipesaukee but responses are few on the ground so far, i.e. one, saying they're full up. Ah well. Que sera & all that.

Hi, <BR>I agree with Neal regarding the humidity at the end of August.It really should not be a problem.The last 2 weeks in August will be a nice time to visit, because it has started to cool down a bit and you feel more energetic than you might in July or the beg. of Aug. When you visit Boston take the DUCK TOUR. Your hotel should have info on it, but basically it's a tour around Boston in an amphibious(I think that's how you spell it) vehicle. It goes on the street and also into the Charles River, so you get a lovely view of Boston and Cambridge(that's where Harvard and MIT are located). Make sure you get your tickets early, as they sell out fast. You will love New England.

Back again. When I first posted to this forum a fortnight ago I'd never heard of Lake Winnipesaukee, and now thanks to you lot I've just paid a deposit on a house rental there! Before we arrive there we'll have five days to play with, two of them in Boston (Duck tour included probably), one earmarked for a whale watching trip, either out of Boston or somewhere in Southern Maine, and the other two days ....well, where ???? Any suggestions anyone? I'm thinking the coast but I'm open to ideas. Don't want to do too much driving. A reminder : we have two easily bored teenage boys. Thanks again if anyone's listening!

You could also take your whale watch from Gloucester, on the north shore of Massachusetts. You might spend a night somewhere in that vicinity, and see Hammond Castle too, or maybe go to the beach. <BR> <BR>In Boston you may want to consider the Science Museum and the Aquarium which the kids should like. Take in a show at the Omnimax theater at the Science musuem, if you've never seen one before its really great. Also, its still possible to get Red Sox tickets in August. I don't know if your family likes baseball, but its a very All-American thing to do, and Fenway Park is one of the best places see a game. You could easily stay 3 days in Boston and have plenty to do. <BR> <BR>Another great place, if you are headed up to southern Maine, is Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Its a beautiful, historic town. Lots of old houses, and Strawberry Banke is pretty interesting. <BR> <BR>Hope you have a great vacation!

I agree with Beth about spending maybe 3 days in Boston. I would think the boys would definately enjoy the Museum of Science, Omni Theater, and the Aquarium. You could spend a good part of one day at the museum. The Omni Theater is located there and I think the movie is on sharks. Get your tickets for the show(whatever time is available that day) and if you have to wait (it's usually a sellout) than just do the museum part first. Also there is a good planetarium show at the museum, also. By the time everyone eats breakfast and gets going part of your morning will be gone, that's why I say you could spend most of the day at the museum doing many things. Also if you go to the Omni, sit from the middle-top, so your neck doesn't hurt while looking up if you sit in the front. Also, the ride from Maine to New Hampshire will take you quite a bit of your day probably, because there are no highways that go east-west. The smaller country roads take longer, but the scenery is lovely. Have a great vacation.

I was talking(listening) to my sister on the phone when I wrote my last response, and I forgot to memtion a few other thoughts I had. By the way, that also explains why a couple of my sentences seem disjointed, but hopefully you understood them all right. Now--- As interesting as adults might find Hammond Castle and the Portsmouth area, I don't think your boys would-especially since you have many BEAUTIFUL castles in England. What a vacation with kids boils down to is making them happy, because if they're not YOUR NOT! <BR> <BR>If you should drive up to Maine, don't do so on the week end if possible. The traffic is terrible! If a Sat. is the only day you can go there, leave no later than 8AM and I would even depart earlier if you can get the boys going! Also, that will get you out of the city before there are a lot of cars and you will be free to concentrate on driving "on the other side of the road"(for you). Boston is under going the largest road construction project in the world at the moment, so the earlier you get on the road the better. Boston is not the easiest place to get around in unless your hotel is near the highway off/on ramps. <BR>Elsa

Your boys ought to love Water Country in Portsmouth on Rt 1. Expensive but you can easily stay the whole day. There's shady areas and easy gentle water "rides" (I like the lazy river) and the boys can outdo each other in bravery going on the giant water slides. It's a very nice family park. There's lockers for your belongings and it's a good idea to rent your own tube. It would be a nice active change after visiting the city. Our son enjoyed mini gold. You will find some elaborate courses in the York Me area and Pirates Cove (near Lake Winnepesaukee). In the Concord NH area there are several places where you can rent canoes. Playing in the waves and climbing the rocks on Maine beaches should be fun. The NH mountains aren't far from Lake W, you can take a gondola ride up to the top of Cannon Mtn and Mt Sunapee. There a many easy hikes in the mountains. I liked the one to Arethusia Falls near Twin Mtn (take a picnic lunch). Let the boys complete the route but you can go back down the easy part and enjoy some quiet time. Hiking in the White Mtn with Children is a good guide. Don't forget, you can visit local libraries on your visit. You might want to visit a country fair and let the boys visit the midway and eat lots of junk food. Some feature demolition derbies which are a big hit with teenage boys. You might also visit Star Speedway in Hudson NH (near Nashua) or the Speedway in Epping (near Portsmouth) for exciting dirt track car races. (make sure to bring ear plugs). Have a great time. Try a lobster roll at the Tamarack Drive-in near Weirs Beach, Lake Winnepesaukee. <BR>

Hilary, Where do you live in England? It wouldn't work this year, but would you like to do a home exchange sometime during the next couple of summers? We live an hour north of San Francisco right on the coast, three bedrooms, great views, pool, wonderful hiking and surfing/boogie boarding, birdwatching, etc. etc. etc. We'd love to trade for a house in/near London or the west counties ( or just about anyplace interesting.

Hi team, <BR> <BR>31 posts! I'm so grateful for all your help. You just can't beat first hand recommendations from the natives. The speedway suggestion from Donna, for example, is very useful to our particular family ... my husband is amongst other things a racing driver and my eldest son races karts, so anything wheels/speed related is always a hit. I'm carefully noting all the other tips and trying to work out some kind of plan, taking in the Gloucester area. Just wanted to say thanks again! <BR> <BR>Donna, I'll reply to you separately about the house swap idea. <BR> <BR>Cheers m'dears ... <BR> <BR>

Oops, I meant Cindy, not Donna. Sorry, it's late. <BR> <BR>H.