Everyone loves traveling. However, wandering through new destinations can bring some challenges. Especially when it comes to safety. Thankfully, there are a few safe traveling tips you can utilize to ensure your family never experiences anything but good things when away from home. Today, I am sharing safe traveling tips, so you are prepared for any family vacations you take in the future.

Safe Traveling Tips for Your Next Family Vacation

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When to Plan a Vacation: The Best Time to Book for Every Season

Why Early Planning Matters

When to plan a vacation is one of the most common questions travelers ask. Booking at the right time can make all the difference in securing the best accommodations, smooth itineraries, and hassle-free experiences.

Some trips—like summer vacations, cruises, and holiday getaways—require advanced planning due to high demand. Others allow for more flexibility. No matter where you’re headed, this season-by-season guide will help you determine the ideal time to start planning your trip.

While last-minute planning is possible, booking ahead always provides better options, peace of mind, and a stress-free experience.

When to Plan a Spring Vacation (March – May)

Best Time to Book: 4-6 Months in Advance

Spring is a great time for travel—mild weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of exciting destinations. However, spring break hotspots and popular events can fill up quickly. This is why you must plan ahead, and carefully, to ensure you have the type of vacation you want to experience while away from home. Especially since theme parks and beaches might be packed with other families traveling for vacation.

Best Spring Destinations & When to Book:

Beach Getaways (Florida, Mexico, Caribbean) – Book by November – January to avoid spring break price hikes.

Cherry Blossom Season (Japan, Washington, D.C.) – Secure flights and hotels at least 6 months ahead, as this is a highly competitive travel period.

National Parks (Great Smoky Mountains, Yosemite) – Reserve 4-6 months in advance for the best lodging and tour availability.

European City Escapes (Paris, Rome, Barcelona) – Book 4-5 months ahead for better rates before summer crowds arrive.

Last-Minute Tip: If booking late, look for less crowded alternatives, like Portugal instead of Spain or smaller beach towns instead of major resort hubs.

My tips for keeping everyone occupied during long flights for vacations. 

When to Plan a Summer Vacation (June – August)

Best Time to Book: 6-12 Months in Advance

Summer is peak travel season, especially for families, cruises, and European vacations. Flights, hotels, and attractions book up quickly, so early planning is key. I also recommend working with a travel advisor who will know when the locals in international destinations take their holidays. After all, there is no point in vacationing in France during the couple weeks in August when many of the businesses are shut down.

Best Summer Destinations & When to Book:

Beach Resorts (Hawaii, Caribbean, Greek Islands) – Book at least 9-12 months ahead for top-tier resorts and family-friendly accommodations.
Europe (Italy, France, Greece, UK) – Book 6-9 months in advance to avoid high airfare and fully booked hotels.
Cruises (Alaska, Mediterranean, Caribbean) – Summer cruises fill up quickly. Book 8-12 months ahead for the best cabin selection.
National Parks (Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier) – Campsites and lodges are often reserved a year in advance, so plan as early as possible.

Last-Minute Tip: If you missed early booking, consider traveling in late August when peak season slows down.

Check out my favorite tips for avoiding airline crowds while traveling. 

When to Plan a Fall Vacation (September – November)

Best Time to Book: 3-6 Months in Advance

Fall is a fantastic time to travel—cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning seasonal scenery. However, certain parts of the US, and the rest of the world, will see larger crowds. Especially in areas where there is peak foliage.

Best Fall Destinations & When to Book:

New England Fall Foliage (Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire) – Book at least 6 months ahead (by March or April) for prime foliage-viewing stays.
Off-Season Caribbean & Mexico – Hurricane season runs from June to November, so book 3-5 months ahead for the best deals (and consider travel insurance).
Wine Country (Napa Valley, Tuscany, Bordeaux) – Fall is harvesting season, making it a popular time to visit. Book 4-6 months in advance for vineyard stays and tastings.
Asia (Japan, Thailand, Vietnam) – Fall is ideal for Asia travel with cooler weather. Book 4-6 months ahead for the best flight and hotel options.

Last-Minute Tip: Consider a vacation in Europe and domestic destinations in September and October, since the summer rush is over.

When to Plan a Winter Vacation (December – February)

Best Time to Book: 6-9 Months in Advance (or even earlier for the holidays!)

Winter travel includes holiday getaways, ski trips, and warm-weather escapes. Planning early ensures you secure the best options, especially for Christmas, New Year’s, and long-haul destinations.

Best Winter Destinations & When to Book:

Christmas & New Year’s Travel (Europe, Disney, Ski Resorts) – Book 9-12 months in advance, as these peak holiday trips fill up fast.
Ski Destinations (Aspen, Vail, Whistler, Alps) – Secure accommodations, lift passes, and rentals at least 6-9 months ahead.
Warm-Weather Escapes (Hawaii, Maldives, Australia) – Book 6-8 months ahead for the best flight and hotel options.
City Breaks (New York, Vienna, Prague) – Holiday markets and festive events attract many visitors. Book 5-6 months in advance.

Last-Minute Tip: If your dates are flexible, consider traveling in mid-January or February when there are fewer post-holiday crowds.

Check out these reasons to consider a Christmas market river cruise for your next holiday vacation. 

When to Start Planning: A Quick Cheat Sheet

12 Months in Advance – National parks, peak-season cruises, Christmas/New Year’s travel.
6-9 Months in Advance – Summer vacations, ski resorts, popular international destinations.
4-6 Months in Advance – Spring and fall getaways, long-haul flights.
3 Months or Less – Off-season travel, flexible itineraries, or last-minute deals.

Final Thoughts: The Earlier, The Better!

While it’s always best to book as early as possible for popular trips, life doesn’t always allow for that level of planning. If you do need to wait, follow this guide to ensure you still get great options without the stress. I also recommend working with a travel advisor like myself to ensure you are aware of all the other little hiccups that can occur while booking a vacation. I will make sure your trip is perfect from the moment the planning process begins until you have arrived back home.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized vacation itinerary for your next trip, so you can make the most of these planning tips?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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International Foods to Try During Your Next Family Vacation

Morocco – Quite a Unique International Food

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So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip, so you can use these tips?

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Empty Nesters Travel: Travel Tips for Couples

Visit Destinations You Have Been Dreaming About

Everyone seems to have a travel bucket list. At least a couple of those destinations are true bucket list vacations that require three to four weeks of travel time. Australia, New Zealand, and even Antarctica are a couple of destinations that come to mind.

Since you no longer need to worry about squeezing in vacations during school breaks, you can easily plan a vacation in destinations you have only been dreaming about. Let me help you by personalizing an itinerary for your dream destination, so you don’t miss out on anything during this time away from home.

Check out the best destinations for empty nesters looking to travel the world. 

Travel During the Off Season – Best Travel Tip for Couples

Another one of my favorite travel tips for couples is traveling during the off season. Traveling during this time will ensure you avoid the crowds that pop up in many vacation destinations.

I can help you make sure that you can still do everything you want if you do decide to visit a destination during the off season. And I will tell you if visiting during the off season is a bad idea in certain circumstances.

One example is visiting Paris during the month of August. Most of the locals are on vacation during that time and a lot of shops, restaurants, and attractions are closed.

Book Longer Stays

Since you no longer need to rush through vacations and see everything within a few days, I encourage you to book longer stays. These longer stays will allow you to immerse yourselves in the local cultures. Plus, you can finally relax for part of each day instead of constantly being on the go.

Prioritize Comfort

A top travel tip for couples traveling as empty nesters is to prioritize comfort. Pack excellent walking shoes instead of shoes you know you can’t wear for more than an hour or two.

Grab your travel pillow for the flight. And if you know you need a sleep mask, special blanket, or another comfort item, make sure it is in your suitcase.

Stay Flexible – Amazing Travel Tip for Couples

Staying flexible is one of the better travel tips for couples. As I personalize your itinerary, I will make sure you have plenty of free time for spontaneous adventures. After all, you never know what else you will discover you want to do while you are traveling to new destinations!

I also recommend taking it slow. At least for a few days of your vacation. Downtime is essential for relaxing and savoring the memories you are making.

Savor the Local Experiences

Every destination seems to have its tourist attractions. However, I recommend savoring local experiences many travelers miss out on.

I can recommend non-touristy options for the destinations you are visiting. Think local restaurants, markets, and even cultural activities.

Reasons to embrace empty nesters travel. 

Consider Exploring Together and Apart

There is nothing wrong with spending a little time apart when you are traveling as empty nesters. This travel tip for couples ensures you both get to do something the other may not enjoy.

Your partner can play a round of golf while you indulge in a treatment or two at the spa. You can spend the day at the beach while your partner takes a guided tour of a museum. There are hundreds of ways the two of you can explore apart while traveling as empty nesters.

Communicate Openly – Favorite Travel Tip for Couples

Communicating openly with each other is one of the travel tips for couples that is often forgotten. For these empty nesters trips to be successful, you both need to know what each other wants to experience during these vacations.

I recommend openly communicating preferences and concerns to ensure you both enjoy every moment you are away from home.

Relive Old Memories

As amazing as it is to explore new destinations, there is nothing wrong with visiting past vacation destinations. Especially since you get to relive old memories while you are there.

These destinations can be ones you visited with the kids. Only now you can easily enjoy the activities you didn’t get to do back then.

Or you can visit a destination you traveled to before you had kids to see what has changed and what has stayed the same. You may be surprised with how you feel about a certain destination now that you have traveled to so many more places since that time.

Document Your Journey

As guilty as you may feel about not taking your adult kids with you, there is still a way to allow them to feel they were with you. Simply document your journey through photos and a travel journal.

These two things will allow you to capture your memories to share with family back home. And they may inspire future adventures, as you travel the world as empty nesters.

These are a few travel tips for couples. After all, traveling without kids is something you haven’t done in years, so it may be a little challenging until you get used to it. These tips will ensure you experience only the best while you are traveling as empty nesters. And I am ready to help you create memories together, as you cherish this time with just the two of you.

So, are you ready to utilize these travel tips for couples during your next empty nesters trip?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a planning session with me. Clicking this link will allow you to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready to plan an empty nesters vacation yet? Sign up for my newsletter and stay up to date with all the travel information I share.

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But where do you start? As a first-time cruiser, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. That’s why I’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you navigate your first cruise with ease. Let’s set sail!

How to Cruise for the First Time: Your Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Why Cruising is the Ultimate Vacation

Cruising offers a blend of relaxation, exploration, and luxury that few other travel styles can match. Whether you’re gliding through Europe’s iconic rivers or sailing the high seas, every cruise is designed to deliver adventure and comfort in equal measure.

• River Cruises: Ideal for cultural enthusiasts who want to explore charming towns and historical landmarks. These smaller ships offer a cozy, intimate experience.
• Ocean Cruises: Perfect for those who love vibrant cities, tropical islands, and the energy of larger ships packed with activities and entertainment.

No matter your preference, cruising is the ultimate way to experience multiple destinations without the hassle of constant travel logistics.

Step 1: How to Choose the Right Cruise for You

The foundation of an amazing cruise experience starts with choosing the right type of cruise.

• River Cruises: Picture yourself gliding down the Rhine, Danube, or Seine, stopping at picturesque villages and cultural gems. River cruises are all about immersion—perfect for travelers who value history, cuisine, and local traditions.
• Ocean Cruises: Think of expansive ships sailing through the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or Alaska. These cruises cater to those who enjoy variety, from exploring exotic destinations to indulging in onboard entertainment.

To decide, consider your travel style. Do you want a peaceful, cultural journey or a lively adventure with endless options?

Cruising with family? How to choose the perfect cruise for your next family vacation! 

Step 2: Selecting the Perfect Cruise Ship

Cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes. Finding the right one can elevate your experience.

• River Ships: Smaller, more intimate vessels that dock close to city centers. Onboard, you’ll find cozy dining, enrichment programs, and panoramic views.
• Ocean Ships: Larger ships with amenities like theaters, pools, spas, and a variety of dining options. These ships often feel like destinations in themselves.

Think about how you want to spend your days onboard. Whether it’s lounging by the pool, enjoying cultural lectures, or indulging in gourmet meals, there’s a ship for you.

Step 3: Choosing the Best Cruise Itinerary

The itinerary is the heart of your cruise, shaping the destinations you’ll explore and the experiences you’ll have.

• River Cruises: Perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the culture and history of destinations like Vienna, Budapest, or Paris. Each stop offers authentic experiences that connect you with the local way of life.
• Ocean Cruises: Great for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground. From island-hopping in the Caribbean to exploring ancient ruins in Greece, ocean cruises provide diverse adventures.

Pro Tip: Review itineraries carefully and choose one that balances your must-visit destinations with time to relax onboard.

What you must know for your first European cruise. 

Step 4: Packing Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Packing for a cruise is all about being prepared without overpacking. Here’s what you need:

• Versatile Clothing: Pack layers that transition easily from casual excursions to dressier evenings.
• Essentials: Don’t forget your passport, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Extras: A refillable water bottle, a daypack for shore excursions, and a lightweight jacket are always useful.

Remember, most cruises have laundry services, so you can pack lighter and still feel prepared.

Step 5: Making the Most of Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are the highlight of any cruise, giving you the chance to explore your destinations up close.

• Research the excursions available for each port of call.
• Choose activities that match your interests, whether that’s a guided walking tour, a wine tasting, or kayaking in Alaska.
• Book popular excursions in advance to secure your spot.

Don’t forget to leave time to wander and soak in the local atmosphere—it’s often the unscripted moments that become the most memorable.

Big ship or small ship for cruising in Alaska? Learn how to choose the best option for your next vacation. 

Step 6: Timing Your Cruise Perfectly

When you cruise can make a big difference in your experience.

• River Cruises: Spring and fall offer ideal weather and stunning landscapes.
• Ocean Cruises: These are great year-round, though it’s best to avoid hurricane season (June to November) for Caribbean itineraries.

Choosing the right time ensures you’ll enjoy smooth sailing and breathtaking scenery.

Step 7: Connecting with the Crew and Fellow Travelers

One of the joys of cruising is the opportunity to meet new people. Take time to chat with the crew—they’re a wealth of knowledge about the ship, destinations, and even insider tips for excursions.

Fellow passengers can also add to your experience. Swap stories over dinner or during excursions, and you might leave your cruise with lifelong friends.

Step 8: Savoring Onboard Dining

Dining on a cruise is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

• River Cruises: Enjoy local-inspired dishes that reflect the region you’re traveling through. Imagine savoring fresh pastries in France or hearty schnitzel in Germany.
• Ocean Cruises: From casual bites to fine dining, the options are endless. Many ships even offer specialty restaurants with globally inspired cuisine.

Mealtimes are also a chance to connect with fellow travelers and share stories about your adventures.

Your First Cruise Awaits

Taking your first cruise is an adventure like no other. From selecting the perfect ship and itinerary to exploring incredible destinations, every step of the journey is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

So, whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful river cruise or an exciting ocean voyage, the time to set sail is now. Let me help you plan the perfect first cruise experience that’s tailored just for you.

Are you ready to plan your first cruise adventure?

If you said yes, I’d love to help you create a personalized itinerary for your dream cruise—whether it’s a serene European river cruise or an exhilarating ocean voyage. Simply click here to schedule a customized cruise planning session. You’ll be directed to my digital calendar, where you can choose a time that works best for you.

Not ready to plan your cruise just yet? No problem! Sign up for my newsletter and keep receiving expert travel tips, destination insights, and everything you need to know about cruising. Let’s make your first cruise unforgettable!

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Amazing Attractions at Epcot for Your Next Family Vacation

The Seas with Nemo and Friends Pavilion

Kids of all ages will love visiting with the different sea creatures at the Seas with Nemo and Friends Pavilion. There are numerous sea creatures to look at.

However, I guarantee your family will love the manatees and dolphins the most. Make sure you take the time to do the scavenger hunt to learn all about marine life.

Spaceship Earth – A Favorite Attraction at Epcot

A ride on Spaceship Earth will have your family learning the history of communication. Throughout the ride, your family will experience man landing on the moon, the Renaissance, the burning of Rome, and the invention of the very first computer.

The kids will really love that last one, since computers look much different nowadays!

Living with the Land

An attraction called Living with the Land can be found over in the Future World of Epcot. This learning attraction at Epcot was designed to show how important preservation and conservation really is.

Impressions de France

Impressions de France is one of the many learning attractions within the World Showcase at Epcot. This specific attraction is inside Palais du Cinema. It is an eighteen-minute movie that shares the different destinations around France.

Once you have finished watching the movie, you will want to explore all the other countries within the World Showcase. Eating and drinking are the two most popular activities in this section of Epcot.

Follow my tips for the best experience while dining at the World Showcase in Epcot. 

Soarin’ Around the World

One of the most popular learning attractions at Epcot is Soarin’ Around the World. Your family can take a hang-gliding ride over some incredible locations around the world.

This is one attraction at Epcot you may do with your family multiple times. You will notice something new every time.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting Attractions at Epcot

Now that you know the best learning attractions at Epcot, you may be wondering if there is anything else you should know before you visit this Disney Park. There are a couple things you should know prior to your trip. Knowing this information will make your family vacation even more enjoyable.

Understand How the Lightning Lane Selections Work

The Lightning Lane Passes have changed once again at Disney World theme parks. This includes Epcot. You can now choose a Lightning Lane Multi Pass to enjoy multiple attractions during your family’s visit. Or you can choose a Lightning Lane Single Pass for those attractions not included in the Multi Pass.

With a Multi Pass, you can choose up to three attractions prior to your visit. You can purchase two Single Lane Passes for your visit each day.

I can help you determine whether the Lightning Lane Passes are worthwhile for your family vacation at Epcot when I am planning your trip.

Get Familiar with the Four Neighborhoods – They Will Each Hold a Favorite Attraction at Epcot

If you haven’t checked out the map of Epcot yet, you may want to do that prior to your family vacation. This ensures you know how the four neighborhoods are set up and where your favorite attractions are located.

To get you started, the four neighborhoods include:

• World Showcase
• World Celebration
• World Nature
• World Discovery

Download My Disney Experience for Mobile Ordering

You will be using the My Disney Experience app quite often during your Epcot vacation. Most of the quick-service restaurants will want you to place a mobile order for pick-up.

I recommend downloading this app before getting on the plane to go on your Disney vacation.

Consider Your Vacation Time Around the Different Festivals

Epcot is notorious for holding festivals throughout the year. If one festival interests your family more than all the others, I recommend planning your family vacation for the time that festival is held.

The current festival schedule is as follows:

• Festival of Arts – January through February
• Flower and Garden Festival – March through July
• International Food and Wine Festival – July through November
• Festival of Holidays – late November through December

Take a Leisurely Stroll After the Fireworks

Most people will rush right out of the park as soon as the fireworks are over. However, there is nothing wrong with taking a leisurely stroll towards the exit. I recommend doing a little late-night souvenir shopping since the stores won’t be crowded.

These are the best learning attractions, plus what you need to know about Epcot. Your family will love the ambiance that is found throughout this Disney Park. I guarantee you will make multiple memories with your family, no matter how old your kids are.

So, are you ready to plan a family vacation at Epcot and check out these learning attractions?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not ready to book a family vacation at Epcot, or the other Disney Parks, you can easily sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you always receive the travel information I share.

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There are so many things to see and do when you visit the Big Island of Hawaii. I couldn’t possibly share them all with you in a single post. So, I am sharing only the best things to do on this fabulous island. I know many of these things will make it onto your Hawaiian itinerary. However, as I am planning your next Hawaiian vacation, you can guarantee I will find a few other gems you will want to add to your list of things to do in Hawaii.

Best Things to Do in Hawaii During Your Next Family Vacation

Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – The Most Popular Thing to Do in Hawaii

One of the biggest attractions on the island of Hawaii is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. There are two active volcanoes within this national park. But Kilauea is the one that has been oozing lava since 1983.

The other popular volcano within this national park is Mauna Kea. It is best to visit the summit of Mauna Kea at the end of the day, because it is perfect for stargazing.

A stop at the Visitor Center is a must, so you can get used to the higher elevation. By the time you reach the summit, you will be fourteen thousand feet above sea level. The height of this volcano makes it an incredible location to view the stars without any other distractions.

There are numerous trails to hike along inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park during your visit. Some may lead you to lava flows, while many others will not.

Check out these amazing family activities while visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park!

Walk Along Punaluu Black Sand Beach

There are thousands of beaches around the world and dozens on the Big Island of Hawaii. However, not too many of them have the black basalt sand that is found on the shoreline of Punaluu Black Sand Beach in Hawaii.

This unique sand was created from volcanic lava that flowed into the ocean. As you are walking along this coarse black sand, you will have the opportunity to see green sea turtles sunning themselves along the beach.

You can swim and snorkel at this beach. But the currents can be strong. So, be quite cautious if you choose to enter the water.

Oh, and if you want to check out a green sand beach, head over to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach. The small particles of green sand were created by the cinder cone located next to the beach.

Consider visiting these other amazing family friendly beaches in Hawaii during your vacation. 

Explore Mountain Thunder

One of the best places to learn about, and drink, authentic Hawaiian Kona coffee is Mountain Thunder. This coffee plantation is located approximately 3,200 feet above sea level.

During your visit, you will see magnificent views of much of the Kona coastline below. It is best to take a tour of the plantation before taking your very first sip of freshly roasted Kona coffee. It’s a Hawaiian specialty you won’t want to miss!

Use my travel guide to help you get ideas for planning a family vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii!

Hike the Trail at Akaka Falls State Park – The Best Outdoor Thing to Do in Hawaii

Hiking to the waterfalls on any of the Hawaiian Islands normally means long, arduous hikes. However, on the Big Island of Hawaii, you can take a short hike to two waterfalls within Akaka Falls State Park.

Kahuna Falls has water cascading down the cliffs, while the water at Akaka Falls basically does a free-fall. You can tackle this hike in about a half hour. But only if you don’t spend too much time gazing at the waterfalls.

I usually recommend allowing for at least an hour to truly enjoy this piece of paradise.

Explore Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

History is everywhere within this national park in Hawaii. As you wander around, you will find yourself discovering temples, wood carvings, and even Hawaiian green sea turtles that live inside the park.

This is an excellent way to learn about the past of this island. But midday visits can be rather hot and sunny. So, it is best to be prepared with a hat, sunscreen, and lots of water.

Swim with the Wild Dolphins

One of the more unique activities when vacationing in Hawaii is swimming with the wild dolphins. Up along the Kona Coast, there are plenty of options for swimming with the spinner dolphins that are native to Hawaii.

How to get closer to wildlife in Hawaii during your family vacation.

Shop at the Hilo Farmers Market

One of the best places to find locally sourced foods on the Big Island of Hawaii is over at the Hilo Farmers Market. It is best to visit this farmer’s market on either Wednesday or Saturday. That is when the most vendors are there.

While you can find some amazing poke, shave ice, pineapples, and bananas at this market, it will be the bongo drums and jaboticaba fruit that will pique your interest the most. This is not the best place to grab quality souvenirs though. So, we will need to make sure we schedule souvenir shopping for another time.

Embrace Water and History at Kealakekua Bay

Snorkeling is one of the favorite activities at Kealakekua Bay. You can see an array of sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and tropical fish.

However, there is an abundance of history within this area as well. The Captain Cook Monument located across the bay is an excellent place to begin your historical journey. From there, you can wander around the park for a unique history lesson in a gorgeous natural setting.

Explore Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is a wonderful spot to relax and immerse yourself in nature. This valley is one mile wide and five miles deep, creating a beautiful setting amongst the massive cliffs that surround it.

Over on the southern side of the valley, there is an overlook point you must visit. From there, you can see panoramic views of the entire area.

One of the best ways to experience Waipio Valley is via horseback riding. However, you can also choose to do a strenuous hike or take a tour in a van instead.

These are the best things to do in Hawaii during your next family vacation. As I mentioned above, there are so many other things that will pique your interest when you are vacationing on the Big Island of Hawaii. I would love to customize a Hawaiian vacation for you and your family, so you can see and do exactly what you want to when you are visiting this fabulous Hawaiian Island.

So, are you ready to start planning your vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii?

If you are, then I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me here. When you click this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar. You will easily be able to schedule a time that is most convenient for you.

And if you have not yet decided that the Big Island of Hawaii is the perfect spot for your next family vacation, you can sign up for my newsletter here. I would love to keep in touch, as I keep you updated with all things travel related in the future.

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Jet Lag: Tips for Recovering During Your Next Family Vacation

One of the best ways to prevent jet lag from happening is to take care of yourself before you head out on your family adventure. This includes getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and even exercising.

If you are traveling east or have a flight to fly west, I recommend that you move your bedtime by an hour or two a few days before your trip.  This will help you adjust to the new time zone.

I understand this isn’t always possible due to work and other obligations. But I thought I would still share it!

Recovering from Jet Lag When You Reach Your Destination

When you arrive at your destination, you are going to probably be ready for bed. However, the worst thing you can do is take a nap or sleep for a longer period of time.

Instead, I recommend getting right into your new time zone and staying awake until the time you normally go to bed at home. If you go to bed at ten back home, then go to bed at ten where you are. This will allow you to adjust to the new time zone quickly and get the sleep you need every night.

If possible, you should be outside on that first day. The sun will trigger your internal clock and tell you it is time to wake up and move! The light exposure will ensure your body knows it should stay awake. And your sleep-deprived body will understand this is a short-term situation.

Recovering from Jet Lag When You Get Home

Hopefully, your jet lag will not be as problematic when you return home if you took care of yourself when you were on vacation. However, you should do the same things you did when you were on vacation.

Basically, get outside in the bright light. And go to bed and wake up at your normal local times. Exercise, staying hydrated, and getting into your old sleep schedule and routine will also help.

You should never take sleeping pills to help you get to sleep or when you are recovering from jet lag. They can make you groggier and cause even more sleep issues. If you simply cannot recover from jet lag on your own, talk to your doctor to find the best plan of action for you.

Your jet lag will not last forever and before you know it, you will be more than ready to take off to new unknown destinations with your family!

So, are you ready to have me personalize a family vacation itinerary for your next trip?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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