Exloring Life Eternal

How to plan a family vacation.
(These are based on my Dad's recommendations & experiences & conversations I have had with him.)

Pray for God's wisdom throughout, enjoy the whole process, and be thankful at all times!!

1. Decide where you all want to go. What is your goal?
(Take a poll of primary desired destinations.)

2. Figure out the route. www.mapquest.com can help with this.
a. Discuss how many days you are willing to travel.
b. Discuss how long you are willing to be on the road each day.
c. Contact any friends / family you wish to visit along the route.
i. Don't invite yourself over.
ii. If they invite you vigorously, accept the invitation.
iii. Don't overstay your welcome & be helpful while there.
d. Arrange to stay in hotels / motels where needed. @ google.com, enter the name of the city / area you will be in and "cheap hotels". I.e. "New York City cheap hotels"
e. When you have found the best deals on hotels, call the hotel direct, with a written down record of what you can get the room for online. Remind them of the online rate when you ask for the best price if the best price they cite is higher.

3. Decide what you will see & do along the way.
a. Ask the hosts / hoteliers what they think would be good sites to see along the way.
b. Look in the encyclopedia, a standard atlas, online travel guides, travel guides @ the library, or remember past visits & history lessons.

4. Print &/or email the itinerary.
a. Where you will be & on what days.
b. Phone #'s of the hotels that you will be at.
c. Any #'s for those cell phones you will have with you.
d. [If you are taking along any minors that are not your own kids, it is wise to send the itinerary to their parents also.]
e. [Make sure that any permission forms for any kids from other families are with you.]

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Ten Tips for a Terrific Time of Travel

1. No grumbling & complaining.
2. Prepare for inclimate weather & drive wisely.
3. Dress modestly.
4. Youth should respect their elders.
5. Consensus: Listen quickly, speak slowly, don't get mad easily.
6. Don't buy too many souvenirs.
7. Stick with the plan as much as possible.
8. Attend church when as often as able.
9. Be prepared to share the good news with those you meet.
10. Learn from all you see & all you meet.