Summer Vacation Spots

Pleasing Everyone

Whether you are searching for summer vacation spots for just you and a friend or sweetheart or you are trying to plan a vacation that will please your entire family, finding that perfect place can be tricky. The majority of vacationers only have a limited amount of time to take a break from everyday life, and they don't want to waste it on a vacation that is less than stellar. So, how do you choose, and if you are planning on taking the whole family, how do you please everyone?

Ideas

First, you need to gather a few ideas. Let everyone have some input as to his or her perfect vacation spot. Keep in mind that there probably isn't a place that everyone will initially agree on, so jot down everyone's preferences. It helps to list a few reasons why each place is considered special, such as the location, activities, etc.

Pros and Cons

Once you've gathered a good wish list, it's time to discuss the ins and outs of each destination. Since you probably have a budget to stick to, now is the time to do some research into how much a vacation will cost. Consider accommodations, dining, and activity expenses, as well as travel. In other words, how far away is this oasis, and how will you get there…car, train, airplane?

Narrowing it Down

Once you've established a budget, and you've looked at the expenses, you may be able to nix a few of the ideas right from the start. Try to narrow your list down somewhat, and look for places that are really realistic for you and everyone else who will go on the trip.

Picking the Perfect Place for Summer Vacation

Beach vacations are always popular.

Now, it's time to pick the perfect place. How do you do this? It's probably best to come up with a system that is fair to everyone involved. Of course, you'll need to consider the ages of those who want to weigh in on the decision as well. Keep in mind that your seven year old may want to go to Disney World every year, and your husband may not care where you go as long as there are a few golf courses in the area.

Some families prefer to place the vacation destinations on separate pieces of paper in a big jar and have someone randomly pull one paper out. Others let families members take turns choosing a vacation hot spot from one year to the next.

Ideas for Summer Vacation Spots

Still searching for summer vacation spots to enjoy? Think about what you like to do to relax and have fun. With the range of travel options today, there are many different places that are both unique and affordable for vacationing.

• Do you love the mountains? If so, consider renting a cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains or Yellowstone National Park.
• Is the ocean beckoning you to its shore? If so, you have a wide variety of choices. On the east coast, favorite destinations include Daytona Beach, Hilton Head Island, Virginia Beach, or Cape Cod. The Gulf of Mexico offers beautiful beaches at Gulf Shores and Sanibel. Don't forget the gorgeous waters of the Florida Keys. If the west coast is calling your name, look up and down the coast of California for paradise.
• Thinking of leaving the U.S. for a more exotic destination, then consider taking a cruise or flying to Mexico.
• Maybe your family loves to visit new places all over the United States, such as Boston, New York, or Washington DC.

Whatever destination you choose as your favorite summer vacation spot, plan on having fun, take lots of pictures, and enjoy your free time with those you love!