They say family is everything, but when you plan your annual family vacation, do you take the easy road (for the sake of keeping your sanity) or the road less traveled (for the sake of enriching your experience)?
We suggest getting the best of both worlds with the support of a professional travel planner. Below are four slightly out-of-the-box family vacation ideas with opportunities for education, cultural immersion, and of course, photo albums filled front to back with precious memories.
A MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN TRAIN RIDE
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
If travel is about the journey as much as the destination, a Rocky Mountaineer luxury train is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies. You’ll travel by daylight through the wild beauty of Canada’s West via one of four distinctive rail routes through British Columbia, Alberta, and the Pacific Northwest. Onboard, enjoy dramatic changes in scenery along with luxury service, cuisine, and comfort.
AN ALASKA ADVENTURE CRUISE & TOUR
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINE
Alaska is abundant in outdoor thrills, and Royal Caribbean is one of the few cruise brands that can match the same excitement onboard (yes, there are even rock climbing walls). From May through August 2019, their inspiring itineraries combine the best of Alaska's land and sea experiences, leaving your whole family completely spellbound for this diverse destination. Lead a team of huskies across the snow on Hubbard Glacier, brave the world’s longest zip line in Icy Strait Point, and tour totems in Ketchikan. Combine your cruise with a Cruise Tour on land and spend a few extra days exploring some of Alaska’s most iconic sights and venturing into Denali National Park.
A GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS EXPEDITION
LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS
Join just under 100 other guests aboard National Geographic Endeavour II, a Lindblad Expeditions ship recently revamped specifically for Galápagos itineraries. This destination's close proximity to the equator creates ideal weather for plentiful and incredibly active wildlife. You’ll quickly learn that these exotic animals lack an instinctive fear of humans, allowing for rare and enchanting interactions. Capture photographs of sea lions on the beach next to you, spot a famous blue-footed booby, or gaze at giant tortoises. When it comes to educational enrichment, the whole family will gather fascinating insight from handpicked naturalists, a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, an undersea specialist, an expedition leader, and even a wellness specialist.
A KENYAN CULTURAL JOURNEY
ME TO WE
Looking to make a difference as a family? Journey comfortably and safely to Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, a landscape rich in colorful local culture and African wildlife. In addition to your quintessential safari, you’ll spend authentic, quality time with Maasai and Kipsigis families and contribute to their communities through hands-on volunteering. Imagine beading necklaces with local mamas as your children play soccer together nearby, or the powerful bond created when your family helps build a new school. These volunteer trips have been carefully vetted by luxury standards and take place throughout the year.
MICHAEL SHANE STEPHENS
Curated Global Travel
An affiliate of Protravel
michael@curatedglobaltravel.com
310.691.7461
curatedglobaltravel.com