By Debbie Mcrill
spring makes you dream of vacations
Spring is blooming, and there is an energy in the air. Inside the bodies of children and adults alike, an itch begins to explore, run free and absorb the renewal inherent of the season. The phenomenon even has a name; it's spring fever. Spring break is timed well to allow a small escape from classes and to let students revel in the energy of spring. Planning a junket can provide the entire family with an adventure.
Planning
Making plans early for spring break can increase the available choices. Many venues, hotels and events are booked in advance and finding accommodations could put a rain cloud over your get-away.
Establish a budget. Brainstorm with your kids on possible trips. Keep in mind the age levels of all children going on the trip so that you can plan an outing that is fun for all.
Ideas
Big plans may include Disney World, a Caribbean cruise or a trip to New York. These type of destinations definitely need to be booked early, or you'll end up with a lot of sad faces when there is no availability.
For more budget conscious ideas, the choices are innumerable. Consider some of the following ideas for something a bit out of the ordinary; many may be a short trip away.
Go diamond hunting. The Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas is a great place to spend time together, camp out and maybe find a diamond or two.
Go panning for gold.
Go for a hot air balloon ride.
Go river rafting.
Go to a working ranch.
Take a paddle boat ride down a river.
Take a train ride to anywhere.
Visit an Indian reservation.
There is no limit to the trips you can take as a family, whether it is a day trip or a European tour.
Other Ideas
Your family may enjoy something a bit different than a tourist destination for spring break. Consider volunteering as a family, and you might start a tradition that passes down for generations.
Volunteer to build a house. Habitat for Humanities has programs across the country and welcome volunteers. Check to make sure that your children are old enough to participate.
Volunteer at a National Park. Many National Parks have programs for volunteers. Your family can enjoy the beauty and sights of the park while also providing a service for the country.
Teach English as a Second Language (ESL). For older students and parents, many countries have volunteer ESL programs.
Whether your family takes a more traditional spring break vacation, a wilder adventure or a volunteer trip, the memories and time shared will be part of the stories treasured for life.
Resources
About the Author:
Debbie McRill went from managing a Texas Department of Criminal Justice office to working for Compaq and Hewlett-Packard as a technical writer and project manager in 1997. Debbie has also owned her own businesses and understands both corporate and small business challenges. Her background includes Six Sigma training, and an Information Development career with journalism and creative writing as her passion.
Photo Credits:
spring image by arthur luhnev from
Fotolia.com
