Packing up the kids and heading to the beach is one of the most popular family vacation ideas in the U.S. for a good reason. Whether you’re into splashing in the surf, building (and destroying) elaborate sandcastles, or just lounging in the sun with a few beach essentials on hand,…
Hurricane season travel tips: What to know about Caribbean and Mexico vacations from June through November
Say the words summer vacation and thoughts of lounging on the beach or splashing in the pool probably come to mind. Summer is a time to rest, relax, and recharge. But in some parts of North America, including Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Atlantic and Gulf coasts in the U.S.,…
5 magical destinations that are better to visit by cruise vs. land tour
You’ll find cruises in just about every corner of the world. Because it’s so easy for families to board a ship, unpack only once, and see multiple destinations in one trip, many opt to travel by sea. There’s certainly merit to this sense of effortlessness, but that doesn’t mean cruising…
What Americans need to know before visiting Europe this summer
According to the European Travel Commission, 37% of U.S. travelers are planning a European vacation in 2025. I’m one of them, heading off on a Mediterranean cruise this summer with family friends to celebrate our teens’ high school graduations. It’s been a minute since I’ve been to Europe, and there’s…
9 cruise ship ports in Mexico and the Caribbean that are worth a return visit
One of the many joys of cruising is the chance to sample different destinations in one trip. Then if you’re like me, you’ll fall in love with a port so much that you plan a return visit. With the Caribbean and Mexico as our neighbors, we have access to boundless…
MSC’s new World America ship is a multigenerational vacation win
Multigenerational trips are having a major moment in 2025, making it the perfect time for the debut of MSC Cruises‘ multi-gen friendly new ship MSC World America. I recently sailed on MSC World America’s inaugural cruise, and here’s what I think each generation will love about the new ship. The…
Disney’s Hawaii resort is filled with authentic Hawaiian storytelling
When I first stepped out of my rental car and into the Maka’ala (which is Native Hawaiian for “the pathway of the eyes,” and to “open up your eyes and look”) lobby at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, I was in awe. Disney’s Hawaii resort,…
17 best lake resorts and hotels in the U.S. for families
Lake resorts are a family favorite for good reason: Instagram-worthy views, outdoor fun, nostalgic vibes, and endless activities. Across the U.S., kid-friendly lake hotels offer year-round escapes or seasonal stays perfect for everything from summer vacations to fall leaf peeping, with plenty of opportunities for family togetherness—think swimming, kayaking, fishing,…
New at Walt Disney World this summer: Shows, openings, savings
Walt Disney World has announced an exciting lineup of offerings for families looking to plan their next trip. Summer is a great, albeit hot, time to visit Walt Disney World. As a theme park journalist who covers Disney World on a near-daily basis, I’m always on the lookout for the…
15 Best Things to Do in Khao Lak, Thailand
Khao Lak is an excellent destination in Thailand for those looking to escape the busy city streets and explore the countryside. Not only is this area surrounded by some of Thailand’s most beautiful national parks, but it also offers world-class beaches and plenty of activities. We want to make sure…