DO YOUR HOMEWORK:

More and more destinations are catering to families and are viewing it as a way of increasing business. Now there are families who won't even consider a holiday spot unless it gives special consideration to the entire family. Its not often that a teenager will want to do everything his parents are interested in. That, in a nutshell, is the problem that can easily make for an unhappy holiday.

Be sure to pay particular attention to your holiday planning when kids are concerned. Be sure that whatever your destination, there will be something that appeals to every member of the family. Ask your travel agent lots of questions or better yet, make some phone calls on your own and ask the resort staff yourself.

CLUB MED:

Club Med has resorts all over the world. Some cater to mostly singles and some cater to families and some even have "kids camps." What each individual club location offers is clearly indicated in the Club Med travel brochures. In the locations that cater to kids, activities for the entire day are planned. So the parents can go off on their own and meet up with the kids at mealtime. Its a perfect way to travel together and yet keep everyone happy.

CRUISE SHIPS:

Cruise ships have entire areas on a designated deck fully equipped just for the young ones. They have arcades with a wide selecion of games and when its time to relax the kids can even get themselves some pizza, ice cream or soda at their own restaurant. If your children are "really" young most ships even provide a baby sitting service so the adults can spent time on their own.

HOTELS:

The Four Seasons hotel chain has taken a major step in the area of family holidays. Some of their locations including Whistler, London, New York, and Chicago actually have teenage concierges. This is especially the case during the Summer and major holidays. For instance, when a teen is travelling with his parents in New York, a teen concierge would suggest the best places to shop and can make recommendations as far as what activities are available in the area. For instance, rollerblading spots in Central Park and where to find the nearest desert bar.

There are lots of options out there for family vacations, so don't feel that you have to stay home because you have kids. Do your research, ask the kids what they think. Including the whole family in the holiday planning will help ensure a great time will be had by everyone.