EVERYTHING
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During last July’s 5.8 earthquake, 3-year-old Bronwyn told her 1-year-old sister, “We’re going for a wiggle.” READ MORE
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Do you dream of getting away for the holidays, but can’t shake visions of a National Lampoon vacation dancing in your head? Sour tummies, temper tantrums and potty stops: When you travel with kids, anything can happen. Best just close your eyes and hope for the best! Believe it or not, with some thoughtful preparation and diligent planning, there is a way to ensure that your family’s holiday vacation will be nothing but smooth sailing. Read on for a checklist of 10 travel tips that will set you on your way. 1. Choose a vacation that suits your entire family. For example, if your children are not strong swimmers, it won’t be very relaxing even on a blissful beach in Maui. Consider a destination that is kid- and family-friendly. 2. Pack as light as possible and with the idea of comfort in mind. Don’t forget a few toys, snacks, extra wipes and Tylenol. And resist the urge to bring anything so cherished that it can’t be replaced. 3. Plan as a family. Your crew will become more invested (and less critical) if everyone has a part in the preparations. If possible, turn it into an educational exercise where the kids research your travel destination. 4. Inquire about the hotel’s accommodations by calling ahead of time. Even if it’s to grandmother’s house you go, see what she already has or what she may need of you. This way you won’t have to worry about overpacking and then lugging unnecessary stuff around. 5. Educate yourself about health issues abroad and then update your family’s vaccinations promptly. If you plan to travel, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that “each traveler needs to be fully up to date with routine childhood vaccinations because diseases covered by these vaccines that are now rare or nonexistent in the United States are still common in other areas of the world.” 6. Prepare for medical emergencies by having your insurance cards handy and, if possible, calling ahead to determine what medical facilities are available in the area. Have prescriptions filled before you leave. 7. Keep it affordable. Nothing creates stress like an empty wallet and a dwindling bank account. 8. Arrange for a trusted to friend to check on things at your house while you’re gone. Draw up a brief checklist of tasks. You’ll rest easier knowing that all is well on the homefront. 9. Expect the unexpected. The reality is that you will likely encounter delays and setbacks. Heather Baker of Temecula has a plan for keeping children busy on flights. “Each hour they receive a brown bag with a different treat or snack and some inexpensive trinket inside. They enjoy the surprise and it becomes an incentive for good behavior while traveling. I also make sure I have plenty of gum to help with plugged ears.” 10. Relax. Leave all the trappings and traditions of the holiday behind and embrace the new experiences that await you! And don’t forget your camera! You will soon be looking back on your vacation no matter how chaotic with fond memories. Bon voyage! Kerri S. Mabee is a freelance writer and mother to three children. GENERAL TRAVEL INFORMATION Log onto the Department of Health and Human Services website for information on vaccination recommendations at www.cdc.gov/travel. Get a handle on packing at www.freetraveltips.com/Packing/. Navigate the friendly skies safely! Check out www.airsafe.com. www.Hotels.com has personal agents who will help you get the most out of your vacation package. MOUNTAIN RETREATS Head to the mountains for a restful winter getaway! California proudly boasts more than a few rustic spots, perfect for escaping big city life. And they’re only just a few hours away. Lake Arrowhead www.lakearrowhead.net This website offers a web cam view of the surrounding beauty at Lake Arrowhead. Log on and you’ll find all you need to know about lodging, restaurants, and even relocation information. Big Bear Lake California www.bigbear.com This official home page for Big Bear Lake provides its visitors with available rentals, maps, and all the best places to grab a bite to eat. It provides you with current weather, forecasts, and driving conditions. Lake Cuyamaca www.lakecuyamaca.org The livin’ is easy at Lake Cuyamaca where the waters are stocked with ample fish for the avid fisherman. But, if that’s not your game, don’t worry, there’s nature walking, bird watching and more. Idyllwild http://www.idyl.com/ Tucked away in the idyllic surroundings of the San Jacinto Mountains is a picturesque paradise. Whether it’s camping or just plain relaxation you want, Idyllwild has it all! |
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