In 2008, FTF’s Top 10 Cheap Getaways for Family Travelers were selected for the great value they offered to families who desired to travel on a budget. FTF staff examined the value proposition offered by cruise, resort, ski, hotel, reunion and camp destinations to select the winners during the 2008 economic downturn.
Granted, 50% off the usual rates and the occasional one-night free are great offers, especially when finding them at luxury resorts. But for family vacationers looking for the best consistent value and bang for their wallet-weary bucks, FTF chose these vacations that will be a good value during and after this economic downturn. It’s years later and wallet-friendly vacation ideas are always welcome.
Family Travel Forum’s Top 10 (Cheap) Getaways for Family Travelers
Waiting all year for the snow to fall and hoping for a cheap family vacation? FTF staff crunched lots of numbers, snow-making statistics and weather reports to discover that a family of four can have great ski conditions for cheap on either side of the country. One of the top ski destinations in the US, Lake Tahoe, has over seven premier ski resorts. In 2008, savvy families could find off-the-beaten-path accommodations, equipment rentals and lift tickets there starting at under $2,000/week; and the same in the Western Mountains of New Hampshire.
No Top (Cheap) Getaway list should be without tropical beaches. FTF’s Top Cruise pick was Carnival and its flagship, Carnival Freedom. Sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Freedom visits Key West, Grand Cayman and Jamaica while providing non-stop fun, food and imaginative programming. For a value all-inclusive, the Divi Caribbean Resort’s Tamarijn Aruba offered kids under 18 sharing parents’ room a free stay all year round, with rates including everything, from meals, booze, and kids clubs to activities, services and amenities.
Whether a vacationing family is savoring falling gas prices for a trek across America or using the rising exchange rates to justify a once in a lifetime tour of Great Britain, there are cheap hotel options. In the US, the expanding chain Candlewood Suites, offers accommodations with full kitchens, as well as free laundry and a 24/7 store on the premise, and most hotels have an outdoor BBQ and a pool. The largest hotel chain in the UK, Premier Inn, with 500 hotels in Great Britain, had weekly rates starting at $525 for a family of four. Plus they offer a good night sleep guarantee where, if a family is not happy, the night is on them.
The ultra luxe spa crowd can go green and cut back in a way the kids will appreciate at FTF’s picks for Top (Cheap) Campgrounds. In North America, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Camp-Resorts, with over 80 sites in the US and Canada, had rates 20-30% cheaper than its competitors, Across the pond, Eurocamp, the chic way to live off the land at over 150 locations, offered junior tents starting at only $168/week for a family of four. There is no sacrifice associated with bare-bone prices, as many of these retreats offer organized activities, kids clubs, a selection of cottage rentals, recreation facilities and even waterparks.
Dreaming of seeing the entire clan together at the best beach in the country? This might sound too good to be true, but not with our Top (Cheap) Reunion Getaways. Head to the gorgeous Crystal Coast, North Carolina, where renting a sprawling beach house (that sleeps up to 15) was 50% cheaper than in the better known northern Outer Banks. A 103-acre California State Park on the Monterrey coast boasts the Asilomar Conference Grounds, where reunion group rates includes hotel services, meals and activities, plus all taxes and fees, so there are no surprise charges.
Yes You Can Take A Vacation
These are not funky, on-sale vacations! Wanting to find places that are always affordable, FTF editors researched diligently to find what budget-conscious family planners need: an excellent vacation that won’t break the bank but also won’t disappoint with lackluster accommodations, services and amenities. Especially during times of economic uncertainty, if a family is going to spend its hard earned cash on a vacation, it better be one that satisfies.
To the Great Depression survivor who says that no one should vacation during a recession, here is some food for thought. As Americans, it is our responsibility to vacation. Who needs a federal stimulus package when citizens can strengthen the economy through travel and tourism, an industry that employs more than 12% of American workers and is responsible for more than $700 billion in spending? As travel continues to spur economic growth, we thank you in advance for taking a family vacation.
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Planning a bucket-list adventure? Let’s dive in! From secret flight deals to off-peak gems, these hacks are our compass. Picture sunrise hikes, hidden cafes, and maps scribbled with dreams. So pack light, dream big, and let the world unfold, one hack at a time!
In the quiet of night, meteors streak across the sky, a celestial dance choreographed by the universe. And then there are fairy rings, circles of mushrooms, whispered secrets from the forest floor. But amidst these wonders, there’s another magic: fatherhood. It’s like RVing through life, a journey of discovery, laughter, and love. So let’s embrace the art of wonder, both cosmic and familial.
As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trend; it’s our legacy.
Picture this: wheels rolling, laptop humming, and the open road as our office. For a year, our family worked remotely from our cozy camper. It wasn’t just about Wi-Fi signals; it was about sunrises over mountains, campfire brainstorming, and shared laughter. We learned that work isn’t confined to cubicles, it’s wherever our hearts roam.
In Salem, MA, October casts a bewitching spell. Amid historic streets, the Witches of Salem weave magic—psychic fairs, spirited soirees, and sacred rites. It’s a season where history whispers, and the veil between worlds thins.
As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trendk, it’s our legacy.
When wanderlust calls, these sites answer. From Expedia to Kayak, they weave magic into your getaways. Picture flights, hotels, and car rental. All bundled up like a gift waiting to be unwrapped. So go ahead, chase sunsets and collect memories. Your dream vacation awaits!
Picture this: snow-capped peaks, crisp air, and the thrill of gliding down pristine slopes. That’s what awaits at South America’s ski resorts. From Chile’s Portillo to Argentina’s Cerro Catedral, these resorts weave magic for snow enthusiasts. So grab your gear, chase the powder, and let the Andes embrace you!
Legoland California isn’t just a theme park; it’s a canvas where kids paint their dreams with Lego bricks. From the Technic Coaster’s gentle thrill to the Dragon Coaster’s whimsical castle ride, every moment is a memory etched in joy. And as parents? We pedal, laugh, and become part of the magic. Legoland, you’ve got our hearts, one brick at a time!
Summer vacations are a canvas for unforgettable family adventures. From exploring Alaska’s glaciers to savoring Parisian cuisine the possibilities are endless.
Watching rocket launches is an exhilarating experience that fuels our curiosity about the cosmos. ? Whether you’re at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida or gazing from afar the thrill of liftoff transcends age and ignites wonder.
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Planning an Alaska adventure can be a daunting task but it sounds like you’re looking for some fun activities for kids in Alaska. The trip is guaranteed to be one for the memory books. Carnival cruise passengers get an up-close view of glaciers on an Alaska adventure aboard Native American canoes.
Galveston is a great place for family reunions. If you’re looking for a fun and affordable place to host your family reunion, Galveston is definitely worth considering!
This trip is designed to provide a fun and engaging experience for the whole family, with activities that cater to both kids and adults. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable family vacation, a family magic rafting trip is definitely worth considering!
If you’re looking for a unique and indulgent way to explore Halong Bay, the Ambassador Overnight Cruise is definitely worth considering!
If you’re looking for a unique and sustainable adventure that your family will never forget, UnCruise Adventures is definitely worth considering!
It sounds like you’re looking for a last-minute summer vacation deal. You can find some great deals on destinations across the USA, from California to Florida, New York, Las Vegas, and more. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and plan around 6 weeks ahead of departure. You may even find incredible deals on last-minute vacations up to 1 week before you plan to travel if you are flexible with your destination. From budget-friendly breaks to vacations that are all about pure indulgence.
It sounds like San Diego is offering some great deals and fun festivals for kids. Some of the attractions that are offering free admission for kids include the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego. Additionally, there are other fun activities such as axe throwing and film festivals that are sure to keep kids entertained. If you’re looking for a fun family outing, San Diego is definitely worth considering!