by Melanie Grimes

Created on: March 09, 2008   Last Updated: February 08, 2011

 There are many options for families during spring break with activities the whole family can enjoy. Family planning can investigate vacation destinations from tall mountains to the high seas.

SKI VACATIONS

Great powder still abounds in many North American regions in March and April. You can happily ski at Whistler in British Colombia or Banff/Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada. All of these resorts include ski classes for all ages, numerous teen specific activities, like pizza night at Whistler, and activities for the non-skier. You can ride a dog sled, or go tubing, or if you prefer a non-snow event, you can shop, dine. Keystone offers Ladies and snowshoe tours on old logging roads. You can stay in hotels or even vacation rentals, many of which are located on the mountain, providing ski in/ski out access and maybe even a hot tub.

A vacation home rental allows more room for everyone to maneuver, and can cut costs if you eat meals in your own kitchen. Some will allow you to bring along your pet, though Whistler Resort provide a doggie day care as well.

FAMILY FRIENDLY CRUISES

Family cruises provide baby-sitting, teen centers, youth staff, teen discos, special meals for kids, and special family activities. Craft projects like photography classes, and talent shows, ping pong tournaments, pizza parties, pool parties, all supervised by trained counselors.

KID FRIENDLY RESORTS

Many resorts offer supervised kids programs by day, focusing on crafts, sports, nature along with evening programs and/or babysitting. You may also find teen discos, or programs for the whole family. If you book at an all-inclusive resort, it can take the stress out of worrying about overspending your holiday budget.

PARIS IN THE SPRINGTIME.

Anytime, really. Visit museums, eat at outdoor cafes, bike or row a boat in the Bois de Bologne, see the Mona Lisa, retrace the steps of Picasso, stroll through Monet's garden or the castle at Versailles. Paris is surprisingly family friendly. The subway system is excellent and cheap. Food is everywhere and delicious. Ride the Bateau Mouche down the Seine, under the bridges and get your portrait painted by the artists lining the docks. Visit the Eiffel Tower, if you really must be a tourist. And the Louvre.

But stop for hot cocoa made from melted chocolate bars in the Isle de la Cite. Do Sunday Mass at Notre Dame, and take a stroll past Jim Morrison's grave (or Edith Piaf, Balzac, Modigliani, Oscar Wilde or Proust) at Pere la Chaise Cemetery. Yes, Paris

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>