Guess what I did on vacation?
Parents, brace yourselves! Teens’ expectations for family vacations just got higher--and a lot more active. When asked what makes a dream vacation for them, teens say they would most like to brag to their friends about a once-in-a-lifetime activity. Here are some interesting results to a poll conducted online within the United States among 1000 youth ages 8-17. Source: http://www.prnewswire.com/ article from June 2007
- About 4 in 5 Teens desire a unique vacation event or activity that will provide them with bragging rights and about 3 in 4 parents want the same for their children.
- More than half of teens say their parents join in on their adventurous activities, while only 14% say their parents want to be left alone.
- Teens favor real-life action on vacation, such as participating in adventurous activities (84%) to playing video games at their hotel (16%).
- More than half of teens want to tell their friends that they swam with dolphins on their vacation. Other aspects that make up a teen's dream vacation include: exploring a new place (68%), seeing a celebrity (49%), meeting a new friend (42%) and spending time with family (36%).
So, where do you go to get both a “Wow Factor” from the kids and from Mom & Dad? How can you find a vacation to please everyone? Here are just a few favorites: Cowhand/Dude Ranches: all you need are some cowboy boots and a wide brimmed hat for this one. Starting right here in Texas and all over the U.S., there are “dude ranches” that pack a lot of firsts for those normally bored teens: hayrides, lasso lessons, and horseback riding. Many will even allow the kids to pick hen eggs, clean out stalls, brush down the horses and more. The evenings wind down with S’Mores and music by the bonfire.
Snow Resorts: ski, snowmobile, snowboard, snow angels, sledding, dog sledding, etc……. Winter playgrounds have quite an appeal for all ages. From the options in the U.S., to Canada and Europe, snow resorts are plentiful. Mornings spent out on a fresh blanket of snow are such a great way to relax and unwind from the stress of work and life. It’s also incredible family bonding time as everyone has something to share over a cup of hot cocoa.
Tropical Resorts: some of the top travel destinations in the world are found near beaches. With beaches come water sports, diving adventures, sea life sites and incredible nature scenes. Top picks are: Mexico, Caribbean and Hawaii for families. Hot these days are the all-inclusive resorts where all of your accommodations, food, beverages and activities are included in the price. Most have kids programs for all ages at no additional cost. A trip to the tropics will create memories of ocean waves, stars shining, colorful flowers and family time spent in a very special place.
Amusement Parks: for a day, a few days, a week or longer, what kid does not love an amusement park? Close to home we have Sea World, Fiesta Texas and Schlitterbaun. #1 on everyone’s list, both old and young is Disney World. However, each state has many hidden treasures. .Thrill seeking teens will be boasting for years about the roller coaster they rode.
Cruise Ships: many would place this as THE VERY BEST family vacation for any age. Not only are there endless activities offered onboard, but there are teen areas and special events. Of course, each stop at a port can bring its’ own adventures: Bobsled in Jamaica, Parasail on Maui, hiking in the rainforests in South America, and on and on and on.. There are cruise lines that match every style and price range. Teens are sure to love this one.
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