Mom ‘n’ Dad have booked the tickets and plotted out the path, but what are you gonna do when you get there? Sure, you could chill by the pool all day long, but we’ve got some great ideas to help you rock your vacay wherever the summer season takes you!
If you’re heading to the beach…
Instead of spending your days parked on a towel, mix it up a little. Play tag in the dunes with your sibs, collect seashell souvenirs for your sweeties and watch the sun rise by the shore. If you don’t mind some sand, head out to splash in the late afternoon, once the sun’s rays are beginning to simmer instead of sizzle. Pack a picnic spread for dinner and watch the sun set. Your skin will thank you! Rainy day? Look for a historic lighthouse to explore.
If you’re drivin’ to the mountains…
Summer vacation is the perfect time to try something you’ve never done before. If you’re staying near a lake, give water skiing your best shot. Handy with a golf cart? See if you’re just as good with a jet ski. Hiking, rock climbing, scavenger hunts and late night stargazing walks are perfect activities if you’re staying in the woods. For the perfect lazy afternoon, try going tubing on a river. Ahh, now that’s the life!
If you’re heading to a city…
Cities are awesome summer vacay options because when the temps begin to rise, folks usually vacate urban areas in favor of beach resorts. Take this opportunity to explore a locale you’ve never seen before. Our money’s on New Orleans, if you can handle the heat. We’re lovin’ Memphis’ music scene, Boston’s charm, Austin’s hipster vibe and San Francisco’s gorgeous bay.
If you’re road trippin’…
Be prepared for lotsa time stuck in the car with your family. That means bringing things to do, whether it’s CDs or an iPod playlist everyone will enjoy, a book you’ve been dying to read or a travel-sized checkerboard. If you’re heading to the heartlands or out West, brush up on your history so you know exactly what it is your seein’ out there.
If you’re leaving the country…
Best advice? Read up before you go! There’s nothing worse than hearing about a place you could have gone once you return home. Make a list of things you’d like to do and areas you’d love to see, and keep your eyes peeled for fun things off the beaten path. Do your best to soak up the local language and customs, nosh on unusual food and venture outside your comfort zone.
If you’re going on a cruise…
Cruises are a great place to break away from the family and make some new friends from all over the world. Most ships offer kids and teen clubs, which sponsor activities, theme nights and parties for the under 18 crowd. Feelin’ shy? Brush aside your fears, slap on a smile and jump right in. Everyone’s in the same boat—literally!—so there’s nothing to be worried about.
If you’re staying home…
Who says a staycation has to keep ya housebound? It’s time to explore your community like never before. Hit up the local history museum or some out-of-the-way landmarks you’ve only heard about. If you’re close to other towns or cities, consider taking day trips, too. You might only get the highlights, but you’ll see more than if you just stayed home, right?
What are your summer vacation plans, sweeties?
BY BRITTANY TAYLOR ON 5/28/2011 8:00:00 AM
POSTED IN summer, weekend fun, travel