Category: Family Travel

Tips, ideas and resources for families planning a volunteer vacation abroad.

Sep
21

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Family Vacation Bucket List: Spotting the Big 5 in South Africa

Posted by on September 21, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

We say “South Africa,” you say “safari!,” right? Of course! Having the opportunity to spot the Big 5 animals is a bucket list item for many. And let’s be honest, it should be. When can you see leopards, rhinos, elephants, African buffaloes, and lions in their natural habitat?

When you’re ready to venture off into the wild on your very first family safari experience, planning can be stressful. Rather than spending your time coordinating numerous plans and excursions from afar, take a look at some bundled trips. These are helpful because they (usually) do all of the legwork for you – including planning, booking, timing, scheduling, and sometimes even transportation.

Adventure seekers, animal lovers, and families alike can embark on these adventures! While they’re appealing to all kinds of people, they’re surprisingly perfect for families. When you’ve exhausted the cruises, beaches, and theme parks, it’s time to really wow the kids. We’ll show you exactly how you can do that – and how easy it can be. Read More

Sep
14

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Travel like a pro: Packing tips for your next vacation

Posted by on September 14, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

Packing tips aren’t just for those of you who are venturing out for the first time. Ask any traveler – from absolute road warriors to those boarding their first flight – and you’ll find one commonality: Packing for vacations can be a nightmare.

First, there’s the baggage fees. Then, luggage dimensions. Oh wait – don’t forget weight restrictions. Add to that the security checkpoints and the ease of use that may or may not come with your luggage. You’ve got a potential disaster royale on your hands.

Eliminate the hassle and alleviate your worries by trying some of our packing tips on your next outing. Who knows – you might end up enjoying the planning/packing process!Read More

Aug
10

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Family Vacation Planning Blueprint: Plan Ahead!

Posted by on August 10, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

Name a few things in your life that you do without much planning. Grabbing lunch, walking the dog? Making a pit stop for an extra cup of coffee, buying that extra accessory you don’t really need? These all probably make the list. But what about family vacation planning? Would you jump into a trip with the family with little to no planning?

Of course you wouldn’t. (And if you would, we wish you all of the luck in the world, brave soul.)

Family vacation planning is all about making your life while traveling easier. From budgeting to booking, coordinating schedules, to finding the right activities for your children – once you’ve gotten the planning down, all that’s left to do is create incredible memories with your family! Let’s go over how (and why) family vacation planning is done.

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Aug
3

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From customs to tradition: 9 things you didn’t know about Cuban culture

Posted by on August 3, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

WELCOME TO CUBA!! (Handshake, handshake, hug, kiss, kiss.) WE’RE SO GLAD YOU’RE HERE! …Now what?

It’s common when traveling to another country to want to be fully immersed in their culture, at least once you get there. It’s also normal to not be overly familiar with local customs and traditions. Aside from learning these about these things because you’re interested, it will serve you well to familiarize yourself with them before you visit.

You may think you’re knowledgeable about Cuba – and perhaps you are. But the truth is, Cuba (and Cuban culture) has drastically changed since the Cuban Revolution in 1959. While the country is still a “throwback” in many ways (antique cars and historical architecture especially), what you think you know about Cuba may be due for some updates. 

Now you’re ready! Let’s take a look at 10 things you may not know about Cuban culture.

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Jul
13

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Know Before You Go: Key Phrases in Your Destination’s Local Language

Posted by on July 13, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

When you travel outside of your home country, is it essential to speak the local language? In short, no. However, learning a few key phrases native to your destination could be the best trip planning you’ll ever do!

Here’s why: Trying to communicate on some level with locals (anywhere you travel) can be endearing. You’re visiting their country – their home – and you’re showing that you’re interested enough in their culture to at least try to learn.

It’s also all about the basics! While many trips are to predominantly English-speaking countries, or have guided tours with English-speaking guides, you can’t go wrong with memorizing some standard words and phrases. What if you venture off to mingle with the locals? Being able to ask and answer questions would be helpful.

While we can’t cover every country and language, we’ve put together a list of commonly visited countries on our radar, long with key words and phrases in the local language you should get familiar with.

¡Vamonos! (That’s Spanish for “Let’s go!”)

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Jul
6

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Beyond People: 4 Volunteer Vacations That Help Animals

Posted by on July 6, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

Volunteer vacations aren’t just about humans and the environment. Not hardly! Animals are such an integral part of our world, and sometimes they need our help. But, how can you help? And how can you do it on vacation?

Many of the animals you’ll see on the trip list below are endangered or very close to making the list. Typically, that means you wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to get up close and personal with them (in the wild or in captivity). In the case of the volunteer vacations below, what that means is you’ll be on the forefront of helping them get off that list (or to not land on it to begin with)!

And look, we know you’re here to help. We get it. We love it. But you have to have a little fun while you’re out there, too. You have to see some sights. You need to try the food. These are volunteer vacations after all! Be sure to click through to each trip to see the other adventures you might have in each location.

Read on to see what kind of animals you can help, where you’ll find them, and what sights, sounds, and smells you’ll likely see on your adventure!

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Jun
1

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Family Travel Blogs to Follow in 2017

Posted by on June 1, 2017 · 4 Comments  

Family travel blogs are more than random webpages filled with wanderlust-filled thoughts from strangers. They’re a valuable resource to consider when planning your family vacation. Instead of worrying if you’ve covered all the bases (packing, costs, family friendly locations, traveling with kids, and airline regulations are just the beginning), utilize your friendly online bloggers for experience and advice!

How do you know where to start? The blogosphere is full of an endless number of bloggers, family travel blogs, influencers, “experts,” and more. Do a quick Google search for “family vacation” or “family travel” and you’ll come up with nearly one billion results. One billion.

Instead of sifting through site after site, we’ve put together a list of great places to start when researching family vacations and family travel blogs. Grab your sippy cups and pacifiers, strollers and carry-ons – it’s time to take off!

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May
25

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Costa Rica’s Unique Wildlife

Posted by on May 25, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

Wildlife in Costa Rica, in many ways, contributes to the country’s “happiest place on earth” moniker. The abundance of unrivaled natural beauty is something to behold!

From the indigenous flora and fauna, to the farms and gardens, to the animals, there is no shortage of magnificent wildlife in Costa Rica to see on your trip.

Take a look at the most visually stunning destination sights you’ll see, right after the jump.

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May
11

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5 Ways to Experience Cuba

Posted by on May 11, 2017 · Leave a Comment  

Cuba vacation. Yeah, we said it. Vacation. Vacationing in Cuba is possible now! There are some restrictions, but they’re all met by Discover Corps tours.

Once you decide a Cuba vacation is in your future, the ways in which you can experience the country are endless. Our five suggestions: A weekend getaway in Havana, a Yoga & Culture Exploration (think: retreat), a celebration of arts and culture, volunteering in Havana alongside Cuban youth, or exploring Cuba’s natural side – including the lush countryside and biosphere reserves.

Pack your bags, grab your hats and sunglasses, brush up on your Spanish, look forward to your favorite cigar, and let’s go!

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