mft author at My Family Travels
Uniformed marching band parades the grounds at Colonial Williamsburg. Photo c. pixels.
Article
5 Top U.S. Historical Sites That Inspire Kids to Learn Through Travel

Travel introduces children to a world of stories, so they can look beyond books and learn through travel. Some U.S. historical sites make this even more engaging, blending hands-on...

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Waiter carrying three beer steins through Oktoberfest crows. Photo by Motointermedia c. pixabay.
Article
The Real Oktoberfest

Cologne is known for Carnival, Berlin has its Film Festival, and Munich -- where they adopted the beer purity law in 1516 -- may be the epicenter of Oktoberfest....

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Hikers approach the blue ice Matanuska Glacier to explore its crevasses and caverns.
Article
10 Best Winter Activities in Alaska

From November to April, unique winter activities in Alaska make America’s 49th state one of its most desirable adventure destinations. Dying to see the Northern Lights? You may....

Read More    7 min read

New, posh glamping tents are weatherproof and well furnished for outdoor living.
Article
How Luxury Glamping Tents Redefine Outdoor Experiences

Camping has long been associated with simplicity, rugged living, and a direct connection to nature. However, the evolution of outdoor travel has brought a new level of comfort...

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Small Sphinx and Egyptian antiquities themed to Kingship are now on display at the Grand Staircase of the Grand Egyptian Museum. Photo c. Ron Bozman/Spring Hill Prods.
Article
A Pharaoh’s Playground: The Grand Egyptian Museum Opens GEM Childrens Museum

If you’re asking when the Grand Egyptian Museum will have its grand opening, you are asking the wrong question. On a recent visit to Egypt, my family toured the stunning GEM,...

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Historic Gideon Putnam Hotel is home to an original hydrotherapy spa. Photo c. Allison Tibaldi
Article
It’s Saratoga For The Win: Family-Friendly Saratoga Springs, NY

Saratoga Springs NY, which came to prominence as a 19th-century resort, boasts many things to do with kids. If natural mineral springs, horse racing, gambling, and luxury hotels...

Read More    8 min read

LEGO Driving School awards all graduates a driver's license.
Article
Welcome LEGOLAND New York To The Catskills

LEGOLAND New York is a playful version of the plastic brick theme park that successfully reflects its urban locale. Our family, like many in the tri-state area, is glad it chose...

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Florida is ideal for budget summer getaways because there is water everywhere. Photo c. Denys Kostyuchenko for unsplash.
Article
Weekend Wanderlust: Florida Mini Adventures That Don’t Require A Passport

Many Florida residents are choosing to explore their own backyard. It makes sense. Planning a vacation that involves long flights and complicated bookings is not always possible....

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Mom reads book at beach while 2 toddlers play in sand nearby.
Article
Fuerteventura Family Holidays: Best Areas & Things to Do

Fuerteventura family holidays are big on beach time, with soft sand, shallow waters, and sunshine most of the year. And when you’re ready to explore? There are loads of things...

Read More    4 min read

Woman teaches baby how to swim in indoor pool.
Article
How To Teach Babies And Toddlers To Swim

As parents, we want to know how to teach our babies to swim because the desire to see, feel or hear water is universal. People from all walks of life seek its soothing yet refreshing...

Read More    7 min read

woman at laptop computer
Article
14 Travel Hacks You May Not Know For Planning A Bucket List Adventure

Make Bucket List dreams come true, and affordably, by using a few of my favorite travel hacks. Current research and a lifetime of travel experience taught me some new tricks to...

Read More    7 min read

Aerial view from the summit of Titov Island overlooking the many cruise ships at Halong Bay, Vietnam.
Article
A Luxury Halong Bay Cruise In Vietnam

We all like a bargain, but sometimes saving money on a cheap excursion can backfire, and end in tragedy as this

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Empty gold sand beach with a row of sunchairs under umbrellas along the Caribbean coast of Mexico.
Article
All Inclusive Resort Tips For Families: What’s Really Included And Why It Matters

All inclusive resorts are a popular choice for families because they promise to take the hassle out of vacation planning. What do all inclusive resorts offer? They offer convenience...

Read More    5 min read

Woman holds up papers being notarized. Photo c. Andrea Piacuadio via pexels
Article
Consent to Travel Letter Forms

Thank you for requesting these Consent to Travel forms. They are the documents required for travel with minors, shared as a service of the Family Travel Forum community.

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Stylish Thai resorts are tucked into the lush tropical jungles of Phuket.
Article
Top 7 Phuket Resorts with Kids Clubs That Are Worth Every Baht

Traveling with kids can be at once a delight and a logistical challenge, but Phuket, Thailand makes it effortless. When you're

Read More    4 min read

Players confront costumed guards in 'Squid Games The Experience', an immersive game in New York.
Article
Summer Blockbuster Stays: Family Entertainment Hotels Where Pop Culture and Fun Collide

Why pay for theme parks when there are hotels with entertainment for families? This summer of budget-watching is the ideal time to discover unique family resorts and hotels with...

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Aerial view of beach at Seaside Heights, Jersey Shore with Casino Pier in background
Article
Top 5 Family-Friendly Jersey Shore Towns for an Unforgettable Vacation

So you know you are reading about the Jersey Shore. But if you’re expecting a write-up on Snooki and the rest of the MTV gang, or a Bruce Springsteen expose,...

Read More    7 min read

Aerial view of long security lines at Jeppesen Terminal at Denver International Airport.
Article
Global Entry And TSA PreCheck Reduce Airport Hassles

Over the past month, I've been renewing my Global Entry and TSA PreCheck status. With increased immigration scrutiny at all borders, they're more...

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The Victorian style front porch and bright red door of the Virginia Hotel in Cape May, NJ. Photo c. Virginia Hotel
Article
Cape May, New Jersey Attractions Lure Families

Picturesque, Victorian style homes, quiet lanes, and family attractions go hand in hand in Cape May, New Jersey. The beautiful seaside getaway I visited with my...

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Teen Travel Trends Report cover from 2015.
Article
Teen Travel Trends: A Look At Where And Why Teens Travel

Thank you for your interest in "Family Travel Forum Reports: Teen and Student Travel Trends." We have collected a lot of anonymized data on where teens travel and why they go....

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I Love NY selfie spot at LaGuardia Airport Terminal B
Article
Why LaGuardia Terminal B Is The Future of Airports

LaGuardia Terminal B has showcased the future of airports since the $8 billion renovation which began in 2016. Today, public spaces feed the body and soul. Travelers experience...

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Grandfather and grandson play with ducks in Pittsford, NY town park.
Article
At 200, An Erie Canal Cruise Is A Bucket List Adventure

Discover the magic of a New York canal cruise on the iconic Erie Canal. Slow travel back to 1817, when construction began on...

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Lightner Museum occupies the former Hotel Alcazar in St. Augustine.
Article
From Fort Mose To The Civil Rights Movement: Tracing Black History In St. Augustine

Look past the Spanish fort, ornate Moorish buildings and main plaza to discover Black history in St. Augustine, Florida. More than 450 years ago, the first Africans in North America...

Read More    13 min read

RVs in campground with kids on bikes.
Article
Resources For Family Camping Vacations

An enthusiastic camper, let me share some resources for family camping vacations to help in planning your next big U.S. camping trip. My tips should help whether you prefer a tent,...

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Parent supervising a young girl on the beach as she walks towards the water at dusk.
Article
Spring Break Water Safety Tips for Kids and Families

Families are heading to beaches, pools and lakes this holiday, so it’s a good time to remind everyone of essential water safety tips for families. According to 

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Snoopy and family
Article
California Haunted Houses and Halloween Happiness

Discover ghosts, goblins and Halloween costumes along with ghoulishly fun frights at California haunted houses, theme parks and other Halloween venues. Since the fright industry...

Read More    7 min read

White Temple in Chiang Rai. c. josch for pixabay.
Article
Northern Thailand’s New Sights and Tastes

The best vacation I have ever had was when I went to Thailand when I was 11 years old.  My mom had to write an article about Northern Thailand so I got to go with her.

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Group of skiers on the slopes at Portillo in Chile.
Article
Chill South American Ski Resorts in Chile And Argentina

Find snow sports in "summer" at top South American ski resorts in the Southern Hemisphere. Long known to international elite athletes, the names Portillo, Valle...

Read More    7 min read

woman at laptop computer
Article
Best Sites for Vacation Packages – Top Travel Deals

We are often asked how to save money with vacation deals, so we are sharing our favorite sites for discount travel booking. As a network of frequent traveling parents, we do a...

Read More    8 min read

Parents and children in a step or blended family smile at camera.
Article
5 Kid-Friendly Locations for a Perfect Europe Family Vacation

Wondering where the locals go for an affordable yet memorable Europe family vacation? To save time and money, we know it's worth planning a trip to a place that's popular with...

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Family group enjoying the outdoor firepit and s'mores at the RumFish Beach Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida. Photo c. Tradewinds Resorts
Article
Family Reunion Planning: 6 Steps to Stress-Free Success

Are you in charge of doing the family reunion planning this year? If so, here's my in-depth guide to get you started. With...

Read More    7 min read

Family getting ready for a sleigh ride to dinner at Park City Mountain Resort.
Article
Park City Peaks: A Multigenerational Ski Adventure

Multigenerational ski adventures, when grandkids can ski with grandparents in snowy destinations, are my ideal family vacation, spring or winter. When someone wants to hit the...

Read More    10 min read

Skill catching zone at Atlanta's College Football Hall of Fame
Article
Atlanta Georgia Attractions: 12 Top Places to Visit

Atlanta, Georgia attractions will thrill families seeking culture, history, and recreation. As Georgia’s biggest city, there are so many sights you could spend weeks here.

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Parrots at Xcaret ecological park, Mexico
Article
Cancun Family Vacation: 3 Tips When Planning Your Trip

Cancun family vacation 2019, what a wild...

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Make wellness vacations in the great outdoors easy with a comfortable glamping option at the Grand Canyon. Photo c. Backland Luxury Camping
Article
Relax, Recharge, Reconnect: Fun Wellness Vacations For A Healthy Spring Break

Spring Break 2025 is shaping up to be a time for more than just escaping the classroom. It's an opportunity to prioritize family wellness vacations and create healthy habits that...

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Sunrise, before the crowds hit the beach, is a wonderful time to explore. Photo c. pexels
Article
U.S. Virgin Islands – Choosing the Perfect Island for Your Vacation

No passport? No problem with our family's reviews of the U.S. Virgin Islands to help you decide which of America's Caribbean isles is right for your family beach vacation.

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Aerial view of the Coral World Ocean Park Underwater Observatory on St. Thomas. Photo c. Coral World
Article
St. Thomas, Family Adventures In The U.S. Virgin Islands

Kayak, snorkel, "snuba" and more with the family on the beautiful beaches of St.Thomas. It's one of the most popular of the U.S. Virgin Islands because there's so much going for...

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Kayak and canoe launch by the side of a river with kayaker in the background.
Article
Explore Vermont Camping On Lake Champlain

Sleep under the stars with close friends and family at a Lake Champlain camp when exploring Vermont. I've been there so I know the Lake Champlain Islands guarantee the summer's...

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Hikers walking past olive trees and grapevines approach a Spanish village along the Camino. Photo by B. Meyendriesch for pexels
Article
A Family Adventure On The Camino de Santiago: How To Make It Fun And Safe For Kids

The Camino de Santiago is much more than just a tourist journey or a pilgrimage route; it is a life-changing experience that can bring families together in a unique and unforgettable...

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The undersea world is so magical. Watch fish swim by as a ray hangs out in the sand off Grand Cayman Island. Photo c. Ashley Spencer.
Article
How To Travel With Teens And Keep Everyone Happy: Top Tips

“Honey, when you take the kids, it’s not a real vacation, it’s just a change of venue.” Aunt Ruby’s wise observation...

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Tombstone at Harriet Tubman gravesite in Auburn, New York.
Article
Keep Going: Harriet Tubman In The Finger Lakes of Central New York

Celebrate the legendary freedom seeker, suffragist and abolitionist, Harriet Tubman, in the Finger Lakes region. Ms. Tubman called Auburn, on Owasco Lake, her...

Read More    9 min read

Woman in bathing suit on a beach chair at one of the Viva Wyndham all-inclusive resorts.
Article
Summertime: Sun Precautions When The Heat Is On

Doc Holiday updates you on specific sun precautions to take during the blistering heat of summer, especially when traveling with very young children.

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Mother and son at water's edge in Capetown, wearing sun protection clothes and hats.
Article
Exploring Nature’s Impact on Children’s Mental Health

Exploring nature often sparks joy and wonder. For children's mental health, however, its effects go much deeper. It fosters emotional balance and mental well-being in ways research...

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Devenish Island ruins in Ireland - Photo Credit Nicky Omohundro
Article
Exploring Ireland With Family, From The Wild Atlantic Way To Dublin

The winding road beckons and the scent of adventure hangs in the air as you explore Ireland with family. Taking generations to the Emerald Isle is sure to be an unforgettable experience,...

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Two people on adaptive cycle at NEDS school
Article
Special Needs Travel Destinations And Programs For Travelers With Disabilities

There are many special needs travel destinations and activity programs for those with physical or mental disabilities or special dietary needs....

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Quebec City ice skating rink
Article
Carnaval de Quebec: Winter Wonderland Celebration

Carnaval de Quebec, a winter wonderland nestled in Quebec City, offers an unforgettable family adventure at an affordable cost. Explore this annual festival, filled with activities...

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Some splurge suites at Grand Residences Cancun Resort have private plunge pools that overlook the Caribbean Sea.
Article
Grand Suites Make Grand Residences Riviera Cancun Resort a Reunion Destination

The family that collapsed at the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun Resort table next to me must have just arrived. First, they pulled off their traveling shoes and wiggled their...

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Romantic beachfront dinner by candlelight at Las Ventanas al Paraiso in Baja California. Photo c. Dino Gomez for Las Ventanas al Paraiso.
Article
6 Romantic Getaways for Valentine’s Day: Reconnect and Rekindle Your Love

Planning romantic getaways for Valentine’s Day -- or any time -- can be surprisingly stressful because there are so many options. Ask yourself:

Read More    6 min read

Bus brings skiers and snowboarders to the slopes in Park City, Utah. Photo c. Visit Park City.
Article
12 Favorite Family Winter Getaways And Travel Deals

Sun or snow or stay close for your family winter getaways? Maybe your winter escape is that long-delayed trip to Orlando. Perhaps it's a cruise with extended family or experiencing...

Read More    14 min read

Couple with car dealer to buy a used fuel efficient car. Photo by Shkrabaanthony for pexels.
Article
Top Used Fuel Efficient Cars: Save Money on Gas Without Sacrificing Comfort

Finding a car that's easy on your wallet and the environment is important. Used fuel efficient cars help you save money on gas while staying comfortable. These cars use smart technology...

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