Single parent vacation
Single parent vacation
Single parent vacation
Single Parent vacation Houtkapperspoort
Single parents face several challenges when it comes to vacationing with their kids not least of which is keeping costs under control. And while the main goal of your trip is likely to spend quality time together as a family, you should be able to have some adult fun in the process sans children. The travel industry has recognized this growing segment of the population and as a result, there are more vacation options for single parents now than ever before.
Of course, the majority of the families you'll meet on your next vacation will likely be two-parent families. Some solo parents worry them and their children will feel out of place on their next cruise or at the all-inclusive resort. There are three things you can do the first is get over it, and be proud of your kids and what you have accomplished on your own. The second is travel with a group that caters to single-parent families or take advantage of travel deals for single parents, where the majority of other travellers are likely to be in your same boat. The third is to pair up with another single-parent family maybe you have a sibling or a close friend who is also a single parent. That way you'll have adult companionship and the kids will have automatic friends.
Here's the problem many single parents face when they try to book a vacation with their kids: Most prices are based on two adults and double occupancy. Obviously you don't want to pay an adult price for your eight-year old that eats nothing but chicken fingers and won't be enjoying a poolside pina colada. So what's the alternative? You could pay the single supplement for yourself and then pay a kids' fare. There are no clear-cut answers for saving money here you just have to do the math and see what works for you. Single parents might also want to consider the possibility that booking an individual itinerary, rather than a package deal, might be the more economical route. Just don't forget to factor in the costs of food and entertainment.
Booking a vacation rental is an excellent way to save money. There are no single supplements and you'll likely have more room than in a resort or on a cruise ship. You'll also have a kitchen so you can keep the dining out to a minimum. And vacation rentals aren't just for weeklong stays at the beach anymore you can rent homes and villas all over the world, a great way to spend a week with your kids in Europe, immerse them in the culture and have a home base all at the same time.
Think about visiting a national park. You need not be the Swiss Family Robinson families of all shapes, sizes and leisure preference enjoy these trips. Best of all, you likely won't have to go far from home to find a national park or seashore there are many more than you probably realize, some perhaps within driving distance of your home. Accommodations vary widely you can rough it at a campsite or relax at a rustic lodge. In any case, there'll be no shortage of activities to choose from.
If money is a major consideration, consider visiting a national park. You need not be the Swiss Family Robinson -- families of all shapes, sizes and interests enjoy these trips. Best of all, you likely won't have to go far from home to find a national park or seashore -- there are many more than you probably realize, some perhaps within driving distance of your home. Accommodations vary widely -- you can rough it at a campsite or relax at a rustic lodge. In any case, there'll be no shortage of activities to choose from.
If you and yours kids have your hearts set on a cruise or all-inclusive resort, there are many ways to save. Be on the lookout for single-parent specials. Beaches Resorts in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos offer all-inclusive vacations that waive the single supplement and host adults-only cocktail parties for single parents.
You're not alone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are more than 13 million single parents in the United States. Though the idealized image of a family getaway may have gone the way of wood-sided station wagons, the good news is that you're free to create your own version of the all-American vacation.
The first rule of planning: DON'T schedule every moment of your time away. Sleeping in, hanging out by a pool, and taking a spontaneous stroll with your kids are excellent vacation activities, especially if you don't see your children every day. Often, it's the unplanned moments that become the family memories.
Second, it's okay to spend time away from your kids during a family vacationeven if you aren't the custodial parent. A relaxed and happy parent is usually a better parent. Take advantage of children's programs at hotels or on ships, or allow relatives to spend time with your children while you play a round of golf or get a massage. And if your kids want to make plans of their own and hang out with new friends during the triplikely at a resort or on a ship or guided adventurelet them do so. You'll all benefit in the end.
More than most people, single parents need to look after their psychological and emotional well-being. Not only do the parents need it themselves, but more importantly, their children need it as well. A happy mom or dad makes a great parent. Similarly, a miserably busy dad or mom who can't take care of his or her own personal emotional health will have a higher chance of growing kids who can spell future "juvenile delinquents" faster than a blink of an eye!
For some single parents whose time is divided between their job and their child, even a moment's relaxation might seem impossibility. "Child" and "relaxation?" Now, is not just that the most perfect oxymoron! But whoever said that you can't mix relaxation or vacation with kids?
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