Jump start your family vacation

Planning a trip with the family might feel overwhelming, but here are five ideas that may jump start your next travel adventure.

There is no time like the present

Your kids will be grabbing the car keys and heading out on their own before you know it. In no time, you’ll be moving your mini me into a dorm or apartment. So for now, pack your suits and sunscreen and enjoy the warm breezes and natural beauty of Belize. It’s a Central American gem where rainforests and expansive barrier reefs are a part of the 87 distinct types of ecosystems. Choose from a wide range of lodging options in coastal areas where you can snorkel, dive, float and paddle. Or go inland for dense greenery, adventure tours and the chance to see colorful native birds.

For more: www.travelbelize.org

Delegate the planning

Getting it right takes time, knowledge, patience and perseverance. In an era of changing global dynamics and a continuing expansion of travel options, the process can be mind-boggling. This is where a travel agent can become a valuable member of your family’s travel-planning team. The pros are up to date on the latest cruise, resort, airline and destination updates as well as documentation requirements and health-related recommendations. They understand different kinds of travel insurance and can make knowledge- and experience-based recommendations. A good agent will get to know your family’s needs, discuss budgets and bucket lists, and offer suggestions for trips that fit your current comfort levels and interests. Then, they’ll use their experience and skills to make even the most complicated itinerary your vacation reality.

For more: www.virtuoso.com

Your kids are curious

Why not explore someplace new together? A textured city like New Orleans offers rich cultural, historical and adventurous outings. Check out the Crescent City’s swamp tours to see the gators. For a family walking tour experience, check out French QuarTour Kids. Its outings are led by teachers and designed for children ages 4 to 18. Sample new styles of music in all-age venues like House of Blues and Preservation Hall. Stir up some spice-filled fun in a Cajun cooking class before testing your skills in an Audubon Institute ropes course.

For more: www.neworleans.com; www.frenchquarterkidstours.com

Take your vacation old-school

School can be stressful. And soon there will be colleges and careers to consider. So, for now, why not unplug and relax, old-school style?

Rent a cabin in the woods where you can gather by the fire. Put extra butter on the popcorn and relish a game night. During the daylight hours, walk through the woods. Toss some horseshoes. And burrow into some good conversation.

Travel is educational on many levels

There will be plenty to learn during a museum visit, amid city tours and in backcountry adventures. But, travel also provides parents and grandparents the opportunity to model what matters most. Will you exhibit patience when the line snakes around the corner, your hotel room is not ready, or the restaurant server accidentally spills a drink on your table? Delayed flights, weather changes, poor service or a rocky road help all of us learn to live in the moment, share resources, manage unexpected consequences and see the bright side of the occasional travel mishap. How the adults respond to challenging scenarios will influence the developing character of your junior travel companions.