With the rollout of the COVID19 vaccines in the country, we are hopeful that we may experience a certain level of “normalcy†in the next few months. The idea of going back to activities that we loved excites us. We can somehow start planning the trips that have been canceled a year ago, including the itinerary for summer vacation.
Photo by Vic Alcuaz on Unsplash
It makes us feel good to make plans for the summer. So what we want to do when we can safely move? When it is okay to travel, my daughter plans to bring our family to the less crowded beach where we can take advantage of a beautiful day strolling on the seaside. We were stuck at home for most of the year, so a beach plan is something that makes us feel better.
We don’t have a place in mind yet. But for now, we’re checking on essentials to bring for the weekend getaway. Aside from food, I want to secure one piece swimsuits for myself and my daughter. We are unsure about the swimming part, but it’s fine to bring one. Modest swimwear will work for me since I’m on the heavy side.
I have checked a website that sells single piece swimsuits. I’m surprised that Lime Ricki offers 3X sizes. It would better fit me, or I would go for size 4X.
Besides the simple yet stylish design, the swimsuits are made of comfortable materials. I’m glad they have this line for plus-size women. I could comfortably have fun in the sun with all the support I need to enjoy the beach.
Taking a vacation that is rich in outdoor pursuits offers plenty of entertainment, and a little bit of adventure may be just what the family wants, but this doesn’t have to mean a trip to an expensive theme park or a pricy overseas resort. With a little bit of imagination, alternative family destinations can be found offering the best ingredients for a great holiday, made even better by being a tad out of the ordinary. It’s certainly possible to save money, if that is a consideration, and also to venture into territory the family has not previously explored, and still have lots of fun.
Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash
Grand Canyon National Park
The truly awesome spectacle that is the Grand Canyon makes this a first-class winner with parents and children alike. There’s so much to do and to see here, from guided tours to river trips, from hiking or catching a shuttle bus, to backpacking and even taking a ride on a mule. The Grand Canyon evokes the Wild West in the imagination and there are Grand Canyon hotels on the same theme that the kids will love.
The whole family can explore the nature of this fascinating area and along the South Rim discover more about the history of the Grand Canyon via the information centers and museums. It is also possible to rent a bicycle and take a guided tour. Near Desert View take the time to learn about the life of the Pueblo Indian. Along the North Rim a winding scenic drive will reveal the extent of this inspiring and powerful landscape that is of immense proportions.
Tour Europe on a budget
The classic European resorts tend to be the most expensive ones – Greece, Tuscany and the Costa del Sol, for example. The same experiences can be had at cheaper alternative destinations, however, so trying out Albania, Croatia and Bulgaria is likely to surprise and delight everyone, including the person holding the purse strings. Right next door to Greece, Albania shares similar deep blue seas, lovely beaches and the warm climate of its neighbor. The coastline of Ionia is a fabulous alternative to the Greek islands and much more affordable than Kefalonia or Corfu.
The Istria region in Croatia is a lot like Tuscany, where food and wine are of immense importance. The largest city, Pula, is an acknowledged center of gastronomic excellence, whilst the wine growing in the region benefits from both a Continental and a sub-Mediterranean climate. Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast is the ideal spot for a beach vacation with a difference – there are family resorts, plus warm seas and sands, but at a fraction of the cost of the Spanish ‘costas.’
Safari time
From the Wild West to the equivalent of the wilds of Africa (without going there)try a safari in British Columbia for an amazing choice of excursions for families keen on wildlife. Wolves, grizzly bears and deer can be stalked in the forests, mountains and national parks, with something to please enthusiasts of all ages. There are also great seal and whale-watching areas accessible via speedboats for an extra thrill.
We got this gift certificates last year and we still haven’t used them since. We are planning to use these GCs hopefully on our 22nd wedding anniversary. I’m looking forward to spending the night with my family in a cozy hotel in Intramuros, Manila.
