5 Vacation Spots for the Whole Family to Enjoy
Summer is nearly here, school is letting out, and it is time to start thinking about booking a great vacation for the family. And while that seems relatively simple, it's not always easy for CEOs to get away. Between the company obligations, workload, and everything in their personal lives, it's tricky to get away.
Some research suggests that CEOs work on average over 9 hours per weekday and about 8 hours per weekend. That can make it feel like the job is always on, all the time. And that can make your vacation feel like it's slipping away, too. Many CEOs work almost 70 percent of their vacation days, spending over 2 hours daily in the virtual office.
That isn't much fun for you or your family, and summer vacation is the perfect time to let go of all that stress and unplug. Your VEA can help take care of nearly every aspect of your vacation, from booking flights to seeing to food allergies.
The only thing you should be asking is, "where do I want to take my family for vacation?" We've rounded up our top five family vacation destinations for you to consider.
Fun & Sun for the Whole Family: Aulani Resort
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, is the place to stay for a Hawaii family vacation that combines the magic of Disney while immersing in the local culture. The resort boasts six pool areas, a private beach, and more than 30 complimentary activities, from nature tours to dance and music lessons and everything in between; there is something for every kid.
Mom and dad are treated too. While the kids play at the complimentary kid's club, mom and dad can take advantage of a vast range of spa experiences, go shopping in Oahu, or spend some much-needed R&R on the beach. The resort also has a large list of excursion experiences that no one in the family will soon forget.
Our favorites are:
Pearl Harbor Excursion from Ko Olina – perfect for the history lover that wants to reconstruct the moments from the "day that will live in infamy."
Pua'a' Ahiu: The Wild Boar Off-Road Expedition – perfect for the daredevil families that want an adrenaline punch while enjoying scenic views from the driver's seat.
Dolphin Encounters – perfect for the family that loves animals (especially seeing them up close!)
Honorable mentions: zip line packages, island tours, surf lessons, guided hikes, and golfing experiences.
Aulani hosts live entertainment, has excellent authentic food and is a great spot for your family to connect.
A World of Play Under One Roof: Great Wolf Lodges
If you plan to stay in the continental United States, there are few places more exciting for an outdoorsy family-focused adventure than the Great Wolf Lodges.
With soon-to-be 20 locations across the US and Canada, Great Wolf Lodges are accessible just about anywhere and have activities and excitement all day long (literally). Of course, amenities will vary by location. Still, most lodges boast a water park, rock walls, rope courses, arcades, and many exclusive experiences (like panning for gold in the Oliver's Mining Co.).
Great Wolf Lodges are scattered across the US, meaning you can go close to home or choose a new location for your adventure. The lodges include an array of suites – from themed suites to premium, shopping, ideas, and attractions for the local area, and an "explore by age" feature on their websites that make it easy to figure out exactly what each member of the "pack" will enjoy. (And yes, your EA can take care of that, so you have personalized recommendations for your family).
At Execly, one of our core beliefs is family-first, and we wholeheartedly agree with Great Wolf Lodge's promise: Arrive as a family, and leave as a pack.
Soaking Up the Sand & Sun: 30A (Florida)
If you're not from or familiar with destinations in the southeastern US, it's likely you've never heard of 30A, a highway connecting several picturesque beach towns along Florida's emerald coast.
Along County Road 30A (halfway between Destin and Pensacola in the panhandle), you will find some of the most relaxing beaches and beach towns the sunshine state offers – sans the sky-high view-blocking condominiums and crazy college students. You won't find the chaos and kitsch of more prominent beach destinations here. Instead, you will find beautiful white sand, great local seafood, and plenty of local shops and restaurants, making it the best destination for a part-time beach bum.
The 20-mile stretch of road connects 12 towns with their own distinct style and rich with activities, food, and adventure for every family member of every age.
There are a few airports nearby, and your VEA can help you track down tickets, living accommodations, and anything else you might need to enjoy the beach. So if you've been craving a quiet beach experience with the whole family, 30A is just the ticket.
For the Foodies & City Lovers: Chicago
If you just love city life with all of its conveniences, experiences, and things to do, then Chicago is the place to be. There is always something to do in the Windy City with its seemingly endless supply of restaurants, shops, and activity centers.
We recommend you take a boat out onto Lake Michigan for fishing, sightseeing, or a boat tour along The Chicago River. Then, see a show at one of several theaters that sprinkle the city, or catch a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field, one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the nation.
The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and the Adler Planetarium will wow every family member and should make your list of must-see stops. There is always something to do in Chicago, and your VEA can get you started on your way to a nice hotel and a delicious slice of authentic deep dish!
For Fans of the Odd & Spooky: Savannah
If you are a history lover, or if your family wants to go on a ghost hunt, then Savannah, Georgia might just be the destination for you.
Savannah is a beautiful city in southern Georgia that can boast about its age. Savannah was founded in 1733, before the United States was even a country, and is the oldest city in Georgia. Savannah hosts incredible period architecture, historic buildings, parks, and a beautiful beach. If the rich history and excellent museums aren't enough, Savannah also claims to be one of the most haunted cities in America! You can take your kids on a ghost tour that they won't soon forget.
From the old-school Trolley Tours to glorious (albeit somewhat spooky) parks and more southern comfort food than you can shake a leg at, Savannah is a destination that will leave everyone a little spooked, stuffed, and so glad you made the trip.
These are just a few great destinations you and your family can go to unplug and unwind. Your VEA can help you get sorted with all of your travel arrangements, including booking reservations, flights, hotels, and more.
