Save for those summer camping trips in the family van, family vacations are really anticipated and planned way ahead of time. While what Macaulay Culkin’s character in Home Alone experienced during a family vacation is isolated (and hey, that was a movie!), vacations with the whole family are great opportunities to bond, learn more about each other and help each other grow.

If you’re thinking about having a trip, forget about the usual places you’ve been to when you were ‘single’, and maybe even those you spent your nth honeymoon because there are destinations that are perfect for family vacations.

Destinations like these have plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy, and these places are also safe for the whole family.

 
    * Hawaii – Nothing shouts “I am a family destination” more than being featured time and again as the vacation spot of families in Disney Channel – and most of the time, it is indeed the gorgeous Hawaii. In the Disney Movie version of Wizards of Waverly Place, the whole family had a magical adventure (of course!) in the tropical place. Beaches, volcanoes, Hawaiian music – all the ingredients you need for a great family vacation. It’s completely different from the city and the place let’s you feel you’re in a tropical paradise.

    * France – For a taste of upscale and elegance, France can give you days of wonderful walking tours, good food, exciting nightlife, and urban adventures. The whole family can get lost (not literally though) in the surreal feeling of going back in time and experiencing the elegance of Victorian times. While it’s a modern city, France can give you a taste of its old-fashioned charms and luxurious living.

    * The Swiss Alps – The crowd during holidays at the Swiss Alps is almost totally that of families. With that cold weather, one could really use the warmth of family togetherness. This vacation spot is equipped with all the things you need to bring comfort and familiarity to your brood. 

    * New York City – People of all ages love New York, so definitely the whole family will have fun there as well. Have shopping with your teens, go to the arcade and games with your young ones, and cruise to the Statue of Liberty or catch a Broadway musical – do all these all together! 

    * Los Angeles, California – Go to LA and you’ll know why the paparazzi flock LAX. Hollywood glam at its finest of course – major studios, celebrity homes and Bohemian abodes are just some of the reasons why tourists go to LA. Add to that the warm, sunny weather, great food and Hollywood-ish nightlife, and you’re in for bright days ahead.

So get that passport, pack your things (pack light), grab that camera, and know that you’re in for a lot of good times ahead!

Remember, you’re having this vacation to have fun – go out as friends, never mind the curfew or staying up late – just be there and have fun --- these are what good family memories are made of.