Oftentimes, the older we get, the more set in our ways we can become. Whether the fears you never realized as a child begin to sink in or the comforts of your home you’ve worked hard to provide are more alluring than the wide, open unknown, there are a few tricks of the trade you can use to encourage yourself, kids, partner and parents to step outside of the comfort zone — conveniently, by way of vacation.
Family vacations are a great time to shake things up and experience something new. Sure, you want to relax, unwind and recharge, but some out-of-your-comfort-zone activities can really elevate your trip.
Ease Travel Anxiety
First things first, you need to get where you are going. If anyone in your family or group is afraid to fly, claustrophobic or an anxious traveler, there are a few ways you can help. Downloading movies, shows and games on tablet devices is a great way to keep your anxious family member distracted, but also having a conversation about travel can help. Assure your timid family members through conversation, patience and understanding and once they see the experience is not only manageable, but they also have a partner to make it easier, they may be more willing to step a bit outside of their comfort zone.
Try New Foods
Once in your new family vacation destination, a great way to enjoy your surroundings is to take a foodie tour. This way, you get to dip your toe just outside of your comfort zone without compromising the whole trip. Even if your family is a mixed bag of adventurous and picky eaters, finding a half-day or even week-long foodie tour can help expose them to a new culture, or show off an interesting side to a destination you know and love. At the end of the day, your family gets fed, stretches their legs, walks around, visit markets and makes friends.
Visit the Locals
Whether on a cruise, resort or somewhere removed just far enough from reality to feel like a vacation, get out and about to make your way like a local — even if it’s only visiting a nearby town for a few hours to shop and have coffee, or booking an on-resort excursion and spending the day exploring the locale. If you’re nervous about the area, pre-plan or discuss with a hotel concierge about where to go or even custom tour opportunities.
Get Out and Ride
The old adage of “getting back on the horse” can be a literal activity on vacation. Find a local horseback riding tour, cycling excursion or hop-on-hop-off bus tour and get the lay of the land. This way, you can enjoy your surroundings with a new perspective and even test out those cycling skills you may have forgotten about — and the kids get a chance to show off!
Read This Next
No-Mess Car Games for Thanksgiving Day
Travel Tips
Nov 7, 2024#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
Nov 8, 2024Celebrate Festive Season in Florida at Grande Lakes Orlando
Grande Lakes Orlando invites family travelers to celebrate the holiday season in Florida. This multi-resort hotel complex is home to The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes; and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway
East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.
Destinations / North America
Nov 8, 2024Celebrate Christmas with Snoopy and Peanuts Gang at Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont
Dec. 12–24, Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont, invites family travelers to experience it’s a Charlie Brown Christmas Live in Concert in partnership with Peanuts Worldwide. This nostalgic concert takes over the on-site Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center.
Hotels
Nov 7, 2024Velas Vallarta: The Perfect Family Stay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Family travelers looking for the ultimate escape in Puerto Vallarta should consider booking a stay at Velas Vallarta. Located directly on the beaches of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta offers a luxury all-inclusive experience in one of Mexico’s most popular destinations.
Hotels
Nov 7, 2024Family-Friendly Holiday Packages from Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa will transform into a festive wonderland for family travelers this holiday season. Non-stop fun for all ages includes cookie decorating, face painting, hot chocolate and smores, and so much more.
Slideshow
Nov 7, 20247 Strasbourg, France, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Strasbourg, France, with us.
ShareThis