FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
United

Get Away Before the Holidays

by Angelique Platas

Nov 13, 2017

© Denis Moskvinov | Dreamstime

Budget

Prepping for the holidays can take a bit of effort, from buying gifts, visiting family and keeping up with the everyday. Before the madness ensues, check out these quick and easy vacation ideas for some quality time before all of the family time — and it will give you something fun to talk about over dinner.

family on beach during vacation with dog

Photo: Volodina | Dreamstime

 

For those looking for some Vitamin D before the holidays, there are plenty of off-season beaches to explore. The Caribbean is a great place to experience local culture, cuisine and pristine beaches while enjoying less crowds and greater deals on accommodations and flights. Check out Roatan for a laid-back island vacation with near-private beaches; Aruba for something all-inclusive and upscale; and Bahamas’ Out Islands for natural beauty and culture if you’re short on travel time. The close proximity of the Bahamas to the United States makes for a great quick getaway, while the Out Islands offer a break from the more tourist-filled Nassau.

 

The off-season may be the perfect time to check out The Atlantis Bahamas Resort. With less tourist traffic, you’ll have access to greater rooms at better rates and may even get a chance to slide down the resort’s famous water slide without waiting in line.

 

If you’re looking for some city fun, sun and natural wonders, Las Vegas may be a great place to hide. Spend a night or two in the city enjoying all of the family-friendly fun on the Strip, before heading to the Grand Canyon. Adventure through the national park and enjoy the mild desert temperature. Crowds will be low and local accommodations will be more affordable this time of year. By saving a bit on airfare and lodging, you can splurge a bit on excursions and take the kids on a kayaking tour or donkey ride through the canyons.

family in city park during the fall

Photo: Pojoslaw | Dreamstime

Looking to stay local and enjoy a family staycation? Go all out on a family trip to the city nearest to you. You may have taken daytrips to Philadelphia, Boston, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles or Austin, so mix it up this year and commit to a longer stay. Fill the weekend with events and shows to make this trip more memorable.

 

Whether the kids have fall break or just a few days off from school, there are countless ways to optimize time off and make a family vacation happen. Look for local events and festivals in your area, or opt for an all-out family trip; either way, enjoying some quality time before the holiday madness is a great way to reconnect and ease into the busy season.

#WhereverFamily

Insta Feed
Destinations / North America
Jun 16, 2025

8 Scenic and Affordable U.S. Summer Vacation Spots for 2025

Budget-conscious family travelers need not sacrifice experience for affordability. These eight affordable destinations make for excellent family vacations, with options for all budgets.

Destinations / North America
Jun 16, 2025

Fort Mose Historic State Park, in St. Augustine, Florida, Opens New Replica Fort

In time for summer and the annual retelling of the Battle of Bloody Mose in St. Augustine, Florida, Fort Mose Historic State Park debuts a new replica fort for family travelers to immerse themselves in the historic settlement.

Hotels
Jun 13, 2025

Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos Launches New Family-Friendly Experiences

This summer, Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos, an all-inclusive beachfront resort in Los Cabos, debuts its new lineup of family-focused experiences, perfect for toddlers, teens, grandparents and parents alike. Highlights of the new programming include:

Destinations / North America
Jun 13, 2025

Three Sail Free on This Ferry to Nova Scotia

A group of up to five family travelers can travel from Maine to Nova Scotia by ferry this summer for the price of only two tickets. The CAT is a high-speed car ferry connecting Bar Harbor, Maine, with Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, for a 3.5-hour trip across the Bay of Fundy, making it easy to explore both regions on a single vacation.

Destinations / North America
Jun 13, 2025

Alaska Railroad Summer Season Begins with Four Routes, New Excursions

Alaska Railroad has returned to its full summer schedule for 2025, with daily and seasonal service through mid-September. Family travelers can enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty, activities and community.

Hotels
Jun 12, 2025

Kids Want Camping, Parents Want Comfort: Have Both at These 7 Hotels

With camping more and more popular among family travelers, hotel properties around the United States are offering in-room camping experiences to give the feel of camping in a luxury setting. Here are seven hotels with great in-room camping experiences: