Although a toddler has an emerging mental capability that exceeds that of a new-born, your average toddler will still have a difficult time with any vacation that requires prolonged periods of sitting, excessive walking or too many behavioral restrictions. When it comes to a toddler's happiness, there are no guarantees. That said, a few vacation spots will give you more flexibility and increase your chances of a successful vacation with your toddler.
If you live on a coast or near a large body of water, plan a trip to the beach. Look for beaches that have restaurants nearby and plenty of facilities. For a more elaborate vacation, go to a resort that caters specifically to families and young children. Places such as the Nickelodeon Family Suites in Orlando, Disney World and Smugglers Notch in Vermont all have a whopping amount of entertainment options to keep you and your toddler entertained. For instance, Nickelodeon Family Suites has arts and crafts activities, a splash pool, and meet and greets with popular Nickelodeon characters.
Although teens have the capacity to appreciate more than toddlers, adolescents are often just as stubborn due to rising hormone levels. Look for locations that you know will have a mix of more sophisticated cultural items and sure-fire activities your teen will like. Many teens have a sense of adventure and will enjoy resorts that have activities like rock climbing and scuba diving. Places such as the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas offer a massive range of activities and attractions such as shows, water sports and aquariums. Likewise, Breezes Resorts has locations throughout the Caribbean and according the Family Travel Network cater especially well to teens' interests.
City vacations are good options for teens with active interests. As you plan a city trip, look over all the museums and outdoor attractions the city is known for. Talk to your teen about which look fun. This will ensure that you don't pay a lot of money for an art museum that your teen immediately walks out. While teens get a bad reputation, sometimes all it takes to get your teen engaged is to show an active concern for what she wants to do and see. Cities like New York, Chicago and San Francisco have such a diverse array of options that you are sure to find some museums and parks that you and your teen will love.
Not every toddler and teen is the same. To plan the perfect vacation for your particular child, try to imagine all the potential problematic scenarios that may arise from a given vacation spot. Although it may be impossible to avoid all conflict, you can at least begin to rule out places that you know your kid will hate. For instance, if you have a teen who loves to read and study history, consider a vacation to a rich historical city rather than a two-week adventurous rafting trip.
Follow similar guidelines for toddlers. Toddlers are a bit easier since there are many vacation options that are universally not suitable for toddlers. Nonetheless, think of all the foods your toddler loves or the animals your toddler is afraid of. Plan a trip that will not expose your toddlers to his fears, while at the same time will offer a heavy dose of the games and activities he loves.
