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The best vacations are the ones that vary your normal lifestyle. For instance, if you have a very busy lifestyle, you will be more refreshed after an unstructured vacation, say a beach trip, where all that is required is a swimsuit and SPF 40 and a towel or two. If you live in a rural area, a trip to a large city provides a refreshing change. As a hotel alternative, see out house or condo rentals.

Below are options with their pros and cons for a variety of families and couples.

1. Road Trips
Road trips are an inexpensive way for a family to enjoy each other, have an educational experience. The flexible schedule can include everyone's interests, for example, a stop off to see the World's Largest Ball of Twine, a museum, or Disneyland.
PRO: Inexpensive, spontaneous, educational, everyone is together in one car (this can also be a con)
CONS: Lack of planning can lead to chaos; too much responsibility for the drivers and planners may not be relaxing for everyone.
Approximate cost: $100/day per person

2. All-Inclusive
The opposite of the Road Trip is the All-Inclusive. At an all-inclusive resort, all you do is show up. These types of vacations are wonderful for multi-generational families, as the resorts provide activities for many age groups, and frequently, babysitting at kids clubs.
PRO: lots of activities for all ages, no worries about who is paying for what, they are relaxing for those who don't want to plan.
CONS: these can be expensive. They can provide too many activities and be tiring.
TIP: Try off-season for reduced rates.
Approximate cost: $300/day per person

3. Ski Vacations
Skiing is a wonderful way for families and couples to enjoy each other and get exercise at the same time. Many resorts offer All-Inclusive packages, as well as ski classes that keep the little ones occupied. Larger ski resorts provide ski-in opportunities, so that you can ski from your front door down the slopes. Homes are frequently for rent, as well as rooms in cozy lodges.
Pros: exercise, fitness, fresh air, fireplaces and hot cocoa!
Cons: Sore muscles and cold slippery snow
Approximate cost: $200/day per person

4. Hawaiian vacations and Beach vacations
Warm sand, warm surf, a tall icy drink, and a towel. Beach vacations are great for families who want to relax together. Sand and surf are great entertainment for little ones, and also provide romantic getaway for couples.
Pros: relaxing, exercise, calm, unstructured
Cons: sunburn, sand in the sheets, can be expensive in season.
Tip: Try off-season for

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