http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/ An RSS feed of Family Vacation Critic articles en-us http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-all-inclusive-family-resorts-in-mexico/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-all-inclusive-family-resorts-in-mexico/art/ All-inclusive resorts can be a lifesaver to families traveling. Instead of watching a budget go through the roof when taking on extra resort expenses or spending a trip saying no to the kids, all-inclusive resorts allow famil... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-roadside-attractions-with-kid-friendly-appeal/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-roadside-attractions-with-kid-friendly-appeal/art/ The road trip is a family vacation rite of passage. No matter what your final destination is, the journey should be fun, too. Roadside attractions offer more than just a place to stop, stretch your legs, and take a photo. Eve... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-us-landmarks-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-us-landmarks-for-families/art/ We've all done it: Upon hearing the name of a specific city, we immediately picture an equally specific landmark. But did you know that you could visit and explore many of these landmarks? In fact, they make great highlights ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-zoo-overnights-with-animals/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-zoo-overnights-with-animals/art/ If Ben Stiller or Kevin James inspired you to discover what happens in museums and zoos at night, consider taking the family to an overnight program at a zoo or animal attraction near you or your vacation destination. Some of... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/weekend-breaks-that-make-textbooks-come-to-life/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/weekend-breaks-that-make-textbooks-come-to-life/art/ Making Textbooks Come to Life With Family Vacation Critic's Fall Weekend Family Getaways Pennington, NJ - September 14, 2011 - Just because school is back in session, families don't need to pack their adventures away unti... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/surviving-holiday-travel-with-kids/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/surviving-holiday-travel-with-kids/art/ Tips for Surviving Holiday Travel Chaos with KidsFamily Vacation Critic offers advice for parents braving the busiest travel days of the year Pennington, NJ -- November 9, 2011 -- With the holiday season being the busiest t... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-vacation-critic-wins-ptpa-seal-of-approval/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-vacation-critic-wins-ptpa-seal-of-approval/art/ Family Vacation Critic Named First Travel Web Site to Receive "Parent Tested Parent Approved" Seal of Approval Pennington, NJ -- January 26, 2012 -- Family Vacation Critic® has been awarded the Parent Tested Parent Approved... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-presidential-sights-for-kids/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-presidential-sights-for-kids/art/ One of the best ways to help kids learn is to make it fun. So let's take a trip -- or 10 -- and learn about our presidents as we honor Presidents' Day. Plan a trip to see one of these presidential hot spots that will teach ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-excellent-music-festivals-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-excellent-music-festivals-for-families/art/ As a huge music fan, frequenting music festivals pre-kids was a constant. I thought my days of music festivals were long over once my kids came along, but instead, I've discovered they aren't just loud, rambunctious places fo... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-sweet-specials-for-valentines-day--with-kids/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-sweet-specials-for-valentines-day--with-kids/art/ Who says you can't keep the romance alive with kids? This Valentine's holiday, make it a family getaway filled with romance at these sweet resorts offering special sweetheart packages for families. Date Night at Terranea R... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/4-presidents-weekend-deals-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/4-presidents-weekend-deals-for-families/art/ With the kids out of school on Presidents' Day, use the extra day to give your family a mini-break. Many resorts are offering President's Weekend sales. Take a look, then take your family away! Williamsburg Lodge If looki... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/caribbean-guide-for-families-which-island-is-best/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/caribbean-guide-for-families-which-island-is-best/art/ Planning a family vacation to the Caribbean but don't know which island is right for your family? We recommend our favorite islands, based on your various needs, to give you a starting ground. Once you've narrowed down your i... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-vacation-bets-for-2012/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-vacation-bets-for-2012/art/ The time to reminisce about all the amazing travel memories we made with our families over the last year has passed. It's time to get moving and start planning for an exciting year of new destinations and adventures ahead! W... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/4-best-holiday-windows-cities/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/4-best-holiday-windows-cities/art/ One of the joys of the frantic shopping season are the fantastical holiday window and store displays. A few city department stores and luxury stores create such magical displays, they are worthy of a trip just to get a peek. ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-resorts-that-get-you-close-to-animals/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-resorts-that-get-you-close-to-animals/art/ For animal-loving families, the highlight of any vacation is a close -- but fun -- encounter with a critter. At these 10 resorts, located in the U.S., Caribbean, Central America and Africa, families meet regional animals, lea... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-holiday-hotel-deals-to-make-thanksgiving-travel-easier-on-wallet/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-holiday-hotel-deals-to-make-thanksgiving-travel-easier-on-wallet/art/ Going away to grandma's house for Thanksgiving and need a hotel? We all know hotels jack up holiday prices but if you're looking for a roadside option to help you make the drive, or you need a hotel close to your relatives, t... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/11-best-haunted-houses-for-families-who-love-a-good-fright/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/11-best-haunted-houses-for-families-who-love-a-good-fright/art/ With Halloween upon us, haunted houses across the country are opening their doors to kids and teens looking for truly frightening fun. Here's our roundup of the best and scariest houses, all offering lots of shock, gore and... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/plan-perfect-family-ski-vacation/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/plan-perfect-family-ski-vacation/art/ There's something special about kids and parents out on the slopes together, swishing down the mountain side by side and laughing together when they fall, and going in for hot chocolate when they just can't take the cold any ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-adventures/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-adventures/art/ An hour outside of Calgary, Mount Yamnuska lies in the heart of the U-shaped Kananaskis Valley, surrounded by the jagged snowcapped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Near the base of mighty Yamnuska, a sheer face of rock lures... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-train-trips-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-train-trips-for-families/art/ Almost every morning in summer, the Whistler Sea to Sky Climb leaves from Vancouver promptly at 8:00 am. It's a monumental feat to get my teenagers up this early and, of course, they complain. But once we're sitting in the Gl... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/unaccompanied-minors-rules-and-regulations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/unaccompanied-minors-rules-and-regulations/art/ For anyone who needs to fly their children to grandma's house or an ex's house, the topic of allowing the kids to fly unaccompanied is inevitable. Whether or not you feel your child is ready to fly without your escort, the ai... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/3-day-fall-getaways-your-family-will-love/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/3-day-fall-getaways-your-family-will-love/art/ Although many moms really aren't that sad when school comes around again in the fall (maybe that's an understatement!), kids may be reluctant to let go of summer vacation. To smooth the transition and keep their spirits up, ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-vacations-for-1000/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-vacations-for-1000/art/ What kind of vacation can a family of four plan for just a grand? We tackled the $1,000 question and discovered that families on a limited budget can, in fact, embark on fun and fantastic vacations without shelling out thousa... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-ways-for-families-to-save-on-baggage-fees/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-ways-for-families-to-save-on-baggage-fees/art/ Baggage fees can significantly beef up the cost of a vacation for families traveling with a lot of luggage. For example, a quick search on Continental's Web site turned up a flight available this fall from Chicago to Fort Lau... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/skip-this-do-that/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/skip-this-do-that/art/ Deciding where to go for your next family vacation? Often it's the most popular destinations -- from mega theme parks to world-famous beach towns -- that come to mind first. It's tempting to pick a familiar place and just go ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/7-secrets-to-saving-big-at-disney-world/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/7-secrets-to-saving-big-at-disney-world/art/ Planning an affordable family vacation to Walt Disney World is a challenging proposition for the frugal parent. The park is notoriously expensive. Tally the costs of park fees, restaurant meals, souvenirs, plane tickets, a re... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/are-you-missing-out-on-travel-deals/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/are-you-missing-out-on-travel-deals/art/ Are You Missing Out on Travel Deals? Find Out With Family Vacation Critic's Travel-Savings Checklist Pennington, NJ -- July 7, 2011 -- As the cost of travel continues to rise, Family Vacation Critic -- a TripAdvisor Media... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/beginners-guide-to-rv-family-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/beginners-guide-to-rv-family-vacations/art/ Ah, life on the open road! What's not to love? There's the freedom, the adventure... the kids fighting in the back and demanding to know if we're "there yet." Okay, so maybe a road trip isn't exactly a flawless family vacatio... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-islands-in-us/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-islands-in-us/art/ We all dream of island getaways: White-sand beaches where the kids can play in the surf as warm sun warms our skin; intimate towns meant to be explored by bicycle, with stops for homemade ice cream and family-friendly dinners... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/how-to-travel-with-kids-of-all-ages/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/how-to-travel-with-kids-of-all-ages/art/ We've got all the best resorts for infants, toddlers, and teens, but we won't leave families with kids of all ages in the lurch! Large families often have a wide age range of children, and even small families can have kids th... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kids-spas-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kids-spas-resorts/art/ What can you do to promote a healthy lifestyle while on vacation that's much easier and more fun than nagging your kids to get off the beach chair to go on a hike? Take them to the spa. After all, as parents, we look forward ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/accommodations-for-large-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/accommodations-for-large-families/art/ When Matt Leonard remarried and combined his family with his wife's, they became a family of five. Wanting to go to Aruba for spring break became complicated. The kids were young and they needed connecting rooms. "I called ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kid-and-pet-friendly-hotels/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kid-and-pet-friendly-hotels/art/ Planning fun family trips is an important part of our desire to strengthen bonds with and provide happy memories for our children. Okay, now add a pet or two to the mix. Is it possible to travel with kids and pets and still f... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/best-special-needs-vacation-spots/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/best-special-needs-vacation-spots/art/ Anyone who has organized a trip for the whole family knows how much time and effort it takes. But if you're the parent of a special needs child, you can pretty much double or triple that figure. So much preparation is require... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-cruises/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-cruises/art/ Family CruisesDestinationsCruise LinesBest CruisesBest Port Hotels When it comes to family vacations with something for everyone, cruising tops the charts. Providing transportation to a number of destinations just begging to... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-best-resorts-for-infants/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-best-resorts-for-infants/art/ Traveling with infants and babies can be exciting and exhausting. An important part of a vacation is spending quality time with your significant other, or gaining precious alone time to relax and re-center on the beach. Not e... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/9-best-resorts-for-toddlers/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/9-best-resorts-for-toddlers/art/ Traveling with a toddler can be both a pleasure and pain. (C'mon, admit it -- tantrums, nap schedules, spills and messes resulting in multiple clothing changes.) But some resorts are making it easier to travel with a toddler ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/americas-7-best-fireworks-for-4th/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/americas-7-best-fireworks-for-4th/art/ Nothing screams summer like catching a lively -- and loud -- fireworks display on Independence Day. Who doesn't have memories of picnics, BBQ, ice cream and sparklers with the family leading up to the finale of explosions of ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/babymoon-getaways-for-expectant-parents/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/babymoon-getaways-for-expectant-parents/art/ Having a new baby in the house changes your family's life, whether it's your first or fifth. Those first sleepless three months with a newborn are hard work...And then the next three months...And the next three...And the next... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/ways-to-save-on-family-travel/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/ways-to-save-on-family-travel/art/ With rising fuel prices making travel tough by car and by plane, planning a family vacation seems impossible. The "staycation" is getting old, so we've got tips on how to trim costs. With a little more research, you can still... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/11-best-beach-boardwalks-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/11-best-beach-boardwalks-for-families/art/ An iconic summertime vacation, boardwalks are a world of fun for kids and tend to bring out the inner child in parents. Remember the beach trips of your childhood? Now you can recreate the excitement of arcades and rides, the... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-european-hostels-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-european-hostels-for-families/art/ Offering a practical and affordable place to stay, European hostels are becoming increasingly appealing to travelers with children. Hostels can offer families private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and to really keep costs dow... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/7-european-cities-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/7-european-cities-for-families/art/ Europe is a treasure trove of historic sites, outstanding museums, and, yes!, kid-friendly fun. If you're ready to leave behind the American beaches and theme parks this summer, consider seven of Europe's best cities for kids... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/12-travel-apps-you-must-have/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/12-travel-apps-you-must-have/art/ Everyone has a smart phone these days (don't you?), and when it comes to making travel easier, there's an app for that! You don't need to spend a fortune to have help at your fingertips with the fantastic travel apps we love:... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-gnarly-adventures-for-teens/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-gnarly-adventures-for-teens/art/ Keeping teens happy during a family vacation is key to ensuring everyone else has a good time while traveling. When seeking out the ideal summer getaway, consider some of the following ways to entertain those sulking kids, 1... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/25-great-ideas-for-summer-getaways/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/25-great-ideas-for-summer-getaways/art/ 1. Celebrate a Historic Anniversary. The first shots of the Civil War were shot 150 years ago and even 150 years later, the war that divided our country remains an important part of American history. Give your school-aged ch... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/water-park-capital-of-world/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/water-park-capital-of-world/art/ At first glance, you wouldn't think a 19-square-mile city in central Wisconsin with a population of just over 5,000 would garner much attention. But the Wisconsin Dells are much different than most small towns. With 21 indoor... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-vacations-to-spend-your-tax-refund-on/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-vacations-to-spend-your-tax-refund-on/art/ Still trying to decide where to take the family vacation this year? If it's a dose of inspiration you need, we've pulled together some family-friendly vacation ideas that are particularly worthy choices for 2011, in hopes tha... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-cruise-ships-for-teens/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-cruise-ships-for-teens/art/ An unhappy teenager, arms crossed and mouth a hardened scowl, is the last thing you need hanging around on your family vacation. A happy teenager, on the other hand, couldn't be better. Keep your picky young adult pleased and... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/whats-new-at-walt-disney-world-hotels/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/whats-new-at-walt-disney-world-hotels/art/ In 2009, three new Disney Vacation Club properties opened at Walt Disney World Resort, offering family guests new and exciting ways to immerse themselves in Disney magic. Next to Disney's classic Contemporary Resort, the icon... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/summer-camps-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/summer-camps-for-families/art/ The next time your kids pack their sleeping bags and head off to camp, ready for gooey roasted marshmallows, scary stories and new friendships, why not go with them? Family camps are becoming wildly popular, fusing nostalgic ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/whats-new-at-walt-disney-theme-parks/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/whats-new-at-walt-disney-theme-parks/art/ Fantasy and magic reign supreme at Walt Disney World Resort this year as a major expansion and a number of exciting new additions bring childhood daydreams and flights of the imagination to life. Here's the scoop on the lates... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-historic-us-sites-for-kids/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-historic-us-sites-for-kids/art/ In today's rapidly changing academic environment, today's studies quickly become yesterday's test results. Students learn the material, test on it and move to the next subject matter. In this quick-paced mode, U.S. history ra... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/florida-beyond-disney-and-beach/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/florida-beyond-disney-and-beach/art/ I grew up in Florida, a claim that often is followed by the joke that no one lives in Florida because it's role as one of the top destinations for vacationers and "snow birds" (people who live in Florida in the winter months ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/renting-a-vacation-home/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/renting-a-vacation-home/art/ There's a well-kept secret in the travel world for families: rental vacation homes. Well, it's not exactly a secret, but vacation home rental is often overlooked when travelers are planning their vacations. Staying in a real ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-hotels-in-cruise-ports/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-hotels-in-cruise-ports/art/ You've picked out the best cruise for your family. You know, the one with the onboard cupcake shop and the ice skating rink. But what about your pre- and post-cruise hotel stay? If you're seeking accommodations that will live... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/planning-your-walt-disney-world-vacation/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/planning-your-walt-disney-world-vacation/art/ For families headed to Walt Disney World Resort, the task of crafting a trip itinerary that's a hit with every Mouse fan can be a daunting assignment. After all, with four major theme parks, 24 Disney-owned resorts and a veri... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-ways-to-find-cheap-flights-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-ways-to-find-cheap-flights-for-families/art/ Typical fliers wince at today's sky-high airfares -- but traveling parents, who must mentally multiply plane ticket prices by the amount of kids in their clan, are in an especially tough spot. There are no special kids' rates... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kid-friendly-airports/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kid-friendly-airports/art/ Travel is often a wonderful, broadening experience, but delays and long layovers can taint it with frustration. Families often handle it the worst, with impatient, cranky children and parents who are quickly nearing their las... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/hot-family-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/hot-family-vacations/art/ Need a break from snow and frigid temperatures this spring? Maybe just some guaranteed sun instead of the gray winter skies? The Caribbean, Hawaiian Islands and Mexico remain top family vacation spots. Need help choosing a de... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/9-once-in-a-lifetime-family-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/9-once-in-a-lifetime-family-vacations/art/ We all have that dream trip in the back of our minds. Perhaps they have even registered on a Bucket List of places to visit before we die? While dream trips are in our dreams because they are harder for us to take -- budget a... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-family-travel-mistakes-not-to-make/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-family-travel-mistakes-not-to-make/art/ We have plenty of reviews and articles to help you plan your vacations and getaways, but we thought we would share our hard-earned lessons of what NOT to do when traveling with kids! While one mother and reader of Family V... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-ski-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-ski-vacations/art/ Ski Vacations10 Best Ski ResortsSki DealsSki ForumsSki Trip Reports Get all of the information you need on the best ski destinations for your family. From the most prestigious ski resorts in the world to old-fashioned moun... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-indoor-water-park-resorts-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-indoor-water-park-resorts-for-families/art/ If the Arctic chill that blew in across the country in early December is any indication, we're in for a long, cold winter. When the kids are going stir crazy and all anyone wants is to be splashing in a pool under a warm sun,... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-places-to-escape-snow/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-places-to-escape-snow/art/ If you're like me, you tolerate winter with plenty of muffled grumbles, counting down the days to summer and heat and humidity that comes with it, while the kids look forward to endless hours in the pool and on a beach. If yo... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-places-to-be-snowed-in/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-places-to-be-snowed-in/art/ If your children are anything like mine, their eyes glimmer at the prospect of snow and their faces light up entirely when they awake to find a heavy white powder covering the ground. So treat the kids -- and yourselves -- to... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/how-young-is-too-young/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/how-young-is-too-young/art/ We've got answers to some of the most common questions we get asked involving age. At what age: Can My Child Travel on an Airplane? Infants of any age are allowed to fly, although pediatricians suggest parents wait until ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/plan-a-winter-getaway/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/plan-a-winter-getaway/art/ School vacations are quickly upon us, which means we're free to take the kids on a winter vacation. But what do you do? Where do you go? Let us help you narrow down your choices! Q: Do You Want a Winter Wonderland? A: Vis... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-money-saving-hotel-tips-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-money-saving-hotel-tips-for-families/art/ 1. Enroll in a Loyalty Program Many hotel chains are now offering free loyalty programs with incentives like earning free rooms after multiple stays. If you travel often and stay at the same chain, or one of its participatin... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/surviving-travel-emergencies/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/surviving-travel-emergencies/art/ Vacations are meant to be happy occasions filled with even happier faces. But sometimes, even the best of travel plans can be thrown off course by an emergency such as an injury, a missed flight or a pickpocket making off wit... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/9-best-early-season-ski-deals/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/9-best-early-season-ski-deals/art/ With the fast-approaching holiday season combined with the craziness of getting the kids back to school and to their various sports and activities, you're more than likely to put winter vacation planning on the back burner. H... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/ultimate-carry-on/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/ultimate-carry-on/art/ With so many size restrictions and federal regulations, what we can bring on a plane gets confusing enough without worrying about the right gear to bring with us for the kids. Here's a guide to help you make air travel with t... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/5-fabulous-fall-festivals/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/5-fabulous-fall-festivals/art/ Autumn is here, and with it comes much more than beautiful foliage -- it also brings a bounty of festivals that will engage all ages. Catch your breath at the sight of hundreds of hot air balloons filling the New Mexico sky, ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-wet-weather-tips/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-wet-weather-tips/art/ Despite our best-laid plans, weather can wreck havoc on our family vacations. Perhaps we can overlook the bad weather when it's a weekend getaway, but when we've scrimped and saved for that annual big trip, what can we do whe... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-hotel-swimming-pools/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-hotel-swimming-pools/art/ 1. Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island Bahamas The sprawling resort complex features 11 pools, including the Grotto Pool with its cascading waterfalls, and the zero-entry River Pool that connects to a lazy river, and kiddie poo... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/disney-family-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/disney-family-vacations/art/ IntroTheme ParksDisney HotelsAdventures by DisneyDisney Cruises Intro Looking to plan a magical Disney getaway for you and your family? With a variety of information on destinations, deals and hotels explore all that Disn... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-electrifying-amusement-parks/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/8-electrifying-amusement-parks/art/ We're not talking theme parks here, where a giant mouse or killer whale reigns supreme. We're talking about our favorite parks offering those thrilling roller coasters that make us shriek, scream and sometimes even cry when w... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/african-safaris-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/african-safaris-for-families/art/ Few things in life create stronger bonds between parents and their children than shared adventures, and the African bush sets the stage for experiences you just can't get anywhere else in the world. Think about it: A trip to ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-african-safari-lodges-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-african-safari-lodges-for-families/art/ There's something special about waking up to a brilliant sunrise over the savannah and then heading out on safari. More and more families are taking these "dream vacations and sharing the once-in-a-lifetime experience togethe... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-nights-at-museums/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-nights-at-museums/art/ Who didn't watch the Ben Stiller flick "Night at the Museum" and wonder just what happens in the museum at night? Stiller's character spent the night at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, and then hopped arou... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-cities-for-family-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-cities-for-family-vacations/art/ I remember the first time I, a child raised near farms in the Midwest, ventured to the Windy City for the first time with my parents. I thought taxis were thrilling, the skyscrapers were (rightfully) towering into the sky, an... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/frequent-flyer-tips-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/frequent-flyer-tips-for-families/art/ One of the top concerns for families who love to travel is how to minimize costs. When once upon a time it was just the two of you flying to a destination, sharing a room and dining out, now there are additional seats to purc... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-grand-hotels/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-grand-hotels/art/ There are certain hotels we visit to rest our weary heads after a day exploring a destination, and there are certain hotels that are the destination. Families staying at these grand resorts will bond over hotel activities and... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-volunteer-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-volunteer-vacations/art/ Away from the hectic pace of our everyday lives, any vacation is a chance for families to reconnect. There's no soccer game, no piano recital, no working late, so finally you have that precious day together. Yet, if you reall... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/best-kids-stay-and-eat-free-programs/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/best-kids-stay-and-eat-free-programs/art/ I remember life pre-kids: running off for a weekend because I had the free time and found a great price on a flight. That was six years ago, when airfare deals were, indeed, deals, and before I realized how much more expensiv... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-beaches-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-beaches-for-families/art/ The sun, the surf, the sand... there is joy in any family vacation on the beach. And wouldn't you know it, we've got our 10 favorite places for families to play in the sand and surf! 1. Baby Beach, Aruba Aruba is renowne... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/7-sensational-drives-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/7-sensational-drives-for-families/art/ As a child, there wasn't any trip we would take that didn't involve a long car ride. My father was a full believer of driving trips, during a time where DVDs and portable music players were not yet invented. To him, driving w... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/getting-your-child-a-passport/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/getting-your-child-a-passport/art/ Getting your child his or her first passport can be a detailed process. Having just gotten my own children their passports, I can safely say that following each and every detail under the Federal guidelines, then double check... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-car-travel-tips/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-car-travel-tips/art/ Reprinted with permission from IndependentTraveler.com. There's a reason why so many families tell and retell the stories of long-ago road trips in the family car. The truth is, being in such close quarters with the ones w... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-packing-list/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-packing-list/art/ Do you always feel like you forget something every time you pack for a trip? Get organized with our family travel packing list with essentials ranging from personal items to outdoor gear. Print out this list before you take... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/national-park-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/national-park-vacations/art/ Reprinted with permission from IndependentTraveler.com. Is your family dreaming of getting away to the great outdoors? If so, you're not alone -- national parks in the U.S. see more than 270 million visitors a year. From t... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/amusement-park-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/amusement-park-vacations/art/ The combination of a fluctuating dollar abroad, airline uncertainty and new business strategies by theme park owners are making the "amusement park vacation" a more popular option than ever these days. Planning to base your f... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/planning-a-family-reunion/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/planning-a-family-reunion/art/ Whether you love catching up with long-lost cousins or dread the inevitable cheek-pinch from your Aunt Edith, family reunions are a great way to reconnect with the family -- and with many modern families scattered all over th... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/single-parent-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/single-parent-vacations/art/ Single parents face several unique challenges when it comes to vacationing with their kids. While the main goal is to spend quality time together as a family, you should be able to have some adult fun in the process, sans chi... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-teens/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-teens/art/ So you want to take a family vacation -- and of course, you want every member of your family to have fun. But what if one particular member of your family is a little ... difficult? Sure they can be moody, but teenagers get ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-travel-tips/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/family-travel-tips/art/ The more things change, the more kids stay the same. The family Chevy turned into the family station wagon, turned into the family minivan, which is now the family SUV. Even with the advent of in-seat TV's, mp3 players and Ni... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/green-family-travel/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/green-family-travel/art/ Kermit was wrong: it is easy being green. And trendy too. Environmentally conscious travelers no longer have to rough it in jungle leans-to without electricity or trek to remote campgrounds in order to vacation. More and m... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/taking-your-kids-out-of-school-to-travel/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/taking-your-kids-out-of-school-to-travel/art/ The debate of whether or not to take your kids out of school to travel is certainly controversial. As a parent, an advocate of family travel, and even an early childhood educator earlier in my career, I am often asked for my ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-ski-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-ski-resorts/art/ Family-friendly ski areas provide opportunities for parents and children to spend precious time together, as well as rare time apart to ski at their own levels. The best resorts have gentle slopes for little skiers, first-rat... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-infants/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-infants/art/ The baby years are actually among the best to travel with your child, mainly because they are so darn portable when they're younger than 1. They can't walk yet, so they won't try to scamper down the aisle when the "fasten sea... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-resorts-for-family-reunions/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-resorts-for-family-reunions/art/ A successful family reunion begins by picking the right place for your clan. Start with a property that's reasonably easy to get to for most of your group. An all-inclusive resort or one with a package that covers lodging, me... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/surviving-airport-with-kids/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/surviving-airport-with-kids/art/ You've spent countless hours preparing the family for the big day, and it has finally arrived. You've packed wisely (and legally), nixed the layovers, labored over seat assignments, photocopied birth certificates and passport... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-caribbean-family-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-caribbean-family-resorts/art/ There's something special about teaching your seven year-old to snorkel and then sharing the underwater wonders of rainbow-colored fish and delicate coral with her. In the Caribbean and the Bahamas, depending on the resort y... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/choosing-your-walt-disney-world-resort-hotel/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/choosing-your-walt-disney-world-resort-hotel/art/ You're Walt Disney World-bound, and a crucial question begs an answer sooner, rather than later: Where should I stay onsite with my family? With 34 Walt Disney World resorts offering a total of 28,000 hotel rooms and 3... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-friendly-hotel-chains/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-friendly-hotel-chains/art/ It's no surprise that many major hotel chains are now making their properties more welcoming to families by continuing to add perks and amenities that appeal to kids. There's proof it sells. Access to cribs and highchairs at ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/top-10-resorts-for-teens/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/top-10-resorts-for-teens/art/ Hard to please at times and with minds (and itineraries) of their own, teens can be the most challenging -- or on a good day, the most pleasant, of traveling companions. Increase the odds that your next family vacation wil... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-national-parks-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-national-parks-for-families/art/ America's natural wonders were chosen to be national parks to preserve their majestic beauty. Yet, if you venture to famous places like the Grand Canyon or Yosemite in the summer, "forever wild" might seem like "forever conge... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/top-10-budget-friendly-family-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/top-10-budget-friendly-family-resorts/art/ Everybody loves a bargain, and the search for the ultimate vacation deal has led many a hapless travelers (including this one) astray. If you're traveling solo, you pay the consequences and move on. But if you're planning you... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/finding-romance-while-traveling-with-kids/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/finding-romance-while-traveling-with-kids/art/ Once upon a time, a weekend getaway or weeklong vacation together meant romantic dinners by candlelight, sunset strolls along the beach, a quiet exhibition in a famed museum of art. Then the kids came along and meals grew col... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-mountain-family-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-mountain-family-resorts/art/ Just thinking about a family getaway high up in the mountains and you start to breathe a bit easier. Surrounded by forest and the fragrant smell of pines and spruce, America's finest mountain resorts are therapeutic retreats ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-all-inclusive-family-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-all-inclusive-family-resorts/art/ All-inclusive resorts make for great family vacations. That's because nobody has to be the bad guy saying no to just one more round of kayaking, sailing, tennis or mini-golf. Kids can go snorkeling, take nature walks and cool... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-beach-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-family-beach-resorts/art/ At beach resorts, families enjoy such simple pleasures as sandcastle building, searching for seashells and strolling hand-in-hand along the shore. The best family resorts up the excitement by adding boating, sailing, windsurf... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-movie-destinations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-movie-destinations/art/ In honor of the 84th annual Academy Awards taking place in 2012, we're taking a look at the 10 best movie destinations. You know, where the backdrop was nearly as iconic as the film itself? Although the Academy has its own li... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/spring-training-family-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/spring-training-family-vacations/art/ Spring training gets into full in March in Florida and Arizona, and for families who have a passion for our national pastime, spring training is the ideal time to see your favorite players at their pre-season best, willing to... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-spring-break-spots-for-families/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-spring-break-spots-for-families/art/ Of course spring break isn't just for college coeds, but sometimes it sure feels that way. The last thing you want to do is take your kids to a spring break hot spot and be embarrassed by the antics of wild 20-somethings taki... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-water-sports-resorts/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-water-sports-resorts/art/ There's something special about being on the water. Whether cresting a wave in an outrigger canoe, paddling a kayak across a cliff-rimmed lake, or skimming the sea at full sail, a water outing delivers a wind-in-your-hair sen... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/disney-resorts-under-$100--they-do-exist!/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/disney-resorts-under-$100--they-do-exist!/art/ When families think of a Disney World Resort vacation, they typically see $$$. Sure, prices in peak season can get high, but we've got five great Disney resorts that won't break the bank. Under $100/Night Disney's Value R... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-kids-ages-3-to-6/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-kids-ages-3-to-6/art/ Traveling with children who are in preschool or kindergarten can be absolutely marvelous. Kids are such curious creatures at this age and interested in what's going on in the world around them. That said, patience is the name... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/5-resorts-that-pamper-new-parents/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/5-resorts-that-pamper-new-parents/art/ The honeymoon is now a happy memory, and the baby making was a smashing success -- now that your long-awaited bundle of joy has arrived, where can you go to break away from the daily grind? Now is just the right time to ta... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kids-programs/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-kids-programs/art/ When it comes to family fun at today's resorts, more and more resorts are catering to children with a variety of kids' programs. However, the quality of these programs still various pretty significantly. It's not enough at a ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-kids-ages-7-to-9/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-kids-ages-7-to-9/art/ For many parents, traveling with 7- to 9-year-old children marks the golden age of vacationing. Once kids hit first grade, they can do so much more as our willing partners in adventure. They are fully toilet trained, and you ... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-ways-to-amuse-kids-at-airport/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-ways-to-amuse-kids-at-airport/art/ Airport delays are all too common and may even turn into downright nightmares when traveling with children begging for entertainment and something to do. Whether it's one hour or hours of delays, we've got 10 ways to amuse yo... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/special-needs-travel/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/special-needs-travel/art/ While traveling with a child with special needs may require a little more planning and adjustment, it's just a different category of family vacationing that, just like traveling with infants, toddlers and teens, can be both d... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/12-best-and-sweetest-factory-tours/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/12-best-and-sweetest-factory-tours/art/ It's not Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, but kids will love visits to factories producing some of the country's best sweets! Watch how chocolate is made, taffy is pulled and ice cream is churned at factories across the count... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-no-fly-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-no-fly-vacations/art/ With airfare seemingly through the roof this summer, we've got vacation ideas that are within a hop, skip and a jump from your house (meaning: it's not going to cost you an arm and a leg to fly away). Whether you're in New En... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-tweens/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/traveling-with-tweens/art/ 'Tweens can be trying on so many levels, but in regard to travel, your child may be at the age where he or she is thoroughly embarrassed by Mom and Dad. Something as benign as ordering your second dessert at a hotel restauran... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/dude-ranch-family-vacations/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/dude-ranch-family-vacations/art/ Few vacations are more all-American than one that involves riding horses in the great open spaces of the American West. But if an adult-acquired fear of actually riding a horse compromises your willingness to fulfill your chi... http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-dude-ranches/art/ http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-dude-ranches/art/ When you think of dude ranches, you may have visions of "City Slickers" and burly cowboys, franks and beans, and hard work in the saddle. But dude ranches and guest ranches are a far cry from the movies. Promising a vacation ...