by Sherry Law

Created on: November 13, 2008   Last Updated: December 04, 2008

It seems like the days of cheap family vacations are a thing of the past. You know that you need to get away and take the family on a vacation, but in these days of tightening budgets, finding an affordable family vacation has become a daunting task. There are, however, some options that you may not have considered. An all-inclusive family vacation, though it may seem more costly at first, is one of those options.

In nearly all of the all-inclusive family vacation packages you know in advance how much your vacation is going to cost. Though some items (such as jet skis, etc) are not included, you will know up front what you will be spending for your lodging, transportation and meals. Many of the resorts even offer a lay-away plan so that your trip is completely paid for before you leave home. Beaches Boscobel, in Jamaica, offers a family of four a 4 day/3 night vacation for under $3000 (flying from Atlanta). They feature an XBOX Oasis (teen game-room), treasure hunts, self-serve soda & ice cream machines, a pool with a swim-up soda bar and water slides for the kids, as well as scuba lessons, white sandy beaches, beach volleyball, and a swim-up bar in the adults pool.

Another Jamaica all-inclusive resort is the Starfish Trelawny. For the same length package (at about $2500) they offer the kids the water sports & water slide, as well as lessons in rock wall climbing, snorkeling and the opportunity to go to Circus School (want to learn to swing on the trapeze?).

But don't limit yourself to Jamaica - there are resorts that offer family vacations in Brazil, all over the Caribbean and in Mexico, as well as family resorts in the U.S. and Europe.

Disney offers not only a resort, but the ultimate of all-inclusive vacations - a family cruise vacation. If you're kids love Disney, you've got to check these vacations out!

If your kids would rather explore, a family adventure vacation might be the right choice. Whether paddling down the Colorado River, wandering through Yellowstone or exploring ancient ruins and towering forests, there is an adventure waiting for your young explorers.

Though it will be a challenge, a little homework will lead you to the perfect, affordable vacation for your family.

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