WHERE SHALL WE GO IN 2012?

 by Pam Walker

Here we are at the beginning of the year and so far, so good, weather wise at least. Schools are back in session and we are in the midst of what normally might be called the “Winter Doldrums”.   The rush of the holiday is behind us and we now have time to think of what we can do to enjoy some wonderful family weekends and of course, Spring Break. 

Now is the time to start planning.

For weekend trips, there are so many great destinations nearby. Several months ago I wrote about the Cloister, a beautiful place to get away for the weekend.  A short 4 hour drive from Atlanta, there is golf for Dad, a super Spa for Mom, and kids programs for the younger set. A weekend here comes wrapped up in spectacular surroundings of beach and marshes with villas complete with living rooms and kitchens to cook up some great seafood.   Drive a little north to Sanctuary at Kiawah Island or the Inn at Palmetto Bluff, where both destinations offer similar attractions to the Cloister and are not far from Atlanta for a wonderful weekend of fun.

If you prefer a mountain getaway, why not visit the Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, North Carolina?   In addition to golf and spa activities, one can hike to beautiful waterfalls, pan for gemstones, go geocashing or fishing in nearby lakes.   Family Learning Weekends are also offered where everyone can take a cooking class or painting classes or just learn about the Appalachian Mountains.

If you prefer a longer trip, say for Spring Break, Europe is especially inexpensive and not as crowded in the early spring.  Our US dollar is going farther these days, and what could be better than giving the kids a great education at the same time you vacation?  There are no crowds at the British Museum, and the Eiffel Tower is great without a line to get in.  There are short river cruises in Germany and France, and Italy can also be a great bargain at this time of year.   For those studying Spanish, a great short vacation in Spain, Mexico, or South America to practice your “espanol” might be fun!   Prices in the off season are much less than in the middle of summer when everything is crowded with tourists from all over the world.  It can be a great family vacation, as well as, a learning experience.

 As for Mexico -poor, poor Mexico.  It is such a beautiful country and is suffering such a “bad rap” what with TV shows and newscasts blaring about the drug lords and killings.  The great majority of Mexico is just a delight to travel through. The beaches in Cancun and Cozumel are also lovely.  But be sure to include a visit to the ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal near Merida.   Stay in a wonderful and historic hacienda and get a true feel of what old Mexico was really like.  Even Mexico City can be a great vacation spot with its art, museums, and history around every corner.  And it IS safe. .  .

So, start planning now.  It is a good time to check with your travel advisor and find some really good bargains. Enjoy some really wonderful family time this Spring Break or any time this year.

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel consultant and can be reached at pliwalker@earthlink.net.  You can follow her travels by visiting Pam's blog at http://www.pamwalkers.blogspot.com  & www.walkeradventures.com