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vacation planning, continued ...Published: March, 2010

Consider your motivation for getting away. If you’re stressed out and need a relaxing week away from the pressures and responsibilities at home and work, chances are a packed itinerary touring the ancient Mayan ruins is not for you. If you’re feeling that your family has been scattered and running in a hundred different directions, then perhaps you’ll want something on the quieter side.
   
Once you hone in on the general type of vacation you’d like to have, you’ll be better equipped to present the expectations for your kids.

> Set a family vacation goal
Now that you’ve got the basic parameters of your vacation ironed out, it’s time to start scheduling family meetings – the earlier the better. Involving your kids in the planning gives them a voice and a sense of ownership and pride over their vacation, which translates into more cooperation and satisfaction later.
   
At the first meeting, it’s a good idea to set a family goal. After sharing the general type of vacation you’ll be taking (i.e. a tropical getaway or a snowy ski vacation), ask your children what would make their vacation a success for them. Do your best to take the input from everyone, and distill it down into one family goal. Maybe everyone would like to try something new or spend a few days doing nothing much at all.
   
The benefit of setting a family vacation goal is the satisfaction, closeness and pride family members gain by accomplishing something together. Your goal will serve as your roadmap to a specific destination and a guide for planning activities.
   
It will also set the tone for your vacation, so you and your loved ones know what to expect from each other and the trip. If you know everyone’s individual desires and ideas for a great vacation, you will increase your chances of delivering on those wishes. That can make or break your getaway.

> Destination: vacation! 
Choosing the right location is the most important part of the planning process. To ensure that no one gets bored, take into account your family goal and try to find a location that has something for everyone. Many families prefer an all-inclusive vacation resort, which have kids’ programs and can take some of the stress out of planning.