Advice: Family TravelPhases, Vacations for the Time in Your Life. We know vacationing families do not fit the same narrow tourism industry profile -  two adults with children between the ages of 6 and 12. We know that makes a difference in family vacation fun. Because of this we have created Family TravelPhases, a grouping of vacation suggestions and activities designed to match five age categories of family travelers.

Matching the vacation idea to the appropriate age is the best way to achieve success. Families deserve the very best from their vacation experience but sometimes if the timing is off by a year or two what seemed like a great idea becomes unrewarding. The idea is simple. When considering vacation ideas start with the TravelPhasesSM, and see which best suits your family, then add interests and budget to find the perfect fit.

  
Family TravelPhases - Vacations for the time in your life.
1.  New Beginnings: Children from six weeks - 5 years of age. Never too early to begin, travel with this age needs to be at an easy predictable pace, less is more. In the early years it is the parents that need the break, not the kids.

 
2.  School Rules: Children 6 - 12 years of age.  Prime years to combine family vacation togetherness and learning experiences.  Our website provides a wide range of ideas that nurture the human spirit and bring families together to create memories that will last a lifetime.

3.  What's In It For Me (WIIFM): Teens 13 - 18 years of age.  Tune in to WIIFM for vacation success. During these years it is essential to be on the same wavelength and to match travel choices to interests. Our website provides vacation ideas that allow independence and togetherness to happen without hassles.

4.  Transition Years: 18 years +. This phase specifically relates to adult family combinations and when, where and how to vacation separately together combining individual interests with family bonds. It includes special occasion or celebration trips, student travel and wedding options.

5.  Generation Bond: Two or more generations. The needs of this phase include balancing multiple ages and finding ways to connect or reconnect between generations. It includes family reunions, as well as ideas for grandparents bonding with grandkids.

6. TravelPhaseSM Mix: This category is for those who find they relate to a combination of the phases described. This category provides choices that have plenty of flexibility and options for all ages. It also includes a la carte or custom vacation ideas.

  
Editor’s note: Many destinations have something for all TravelPhasesSM, and knowing what to see and do with your own family is helpful. In our vacation directory we are now building suggestions by TravelPhasesSM for many family destinations.

Content and top image by FTF. Sushi kids provided by Lowes Las Vegas. Copyright 2011.