Taking the Kids: Going away for Thanksgiving
Some families make a Thanksgiving getaway a tradition, returning year after year, said Mary Miller of Elkhorn Ranch, southwest of Tucson. "We also have people who travel solo or as a couple that have become "regulars," as I think they enjoy the feeling of family that takes over the place."
Families say, not only are all the chores left to others, but no one has to host the relatives. Flights can also be cheaper ahead of the holiday weekend. AAA spokesman Julie Hall noted that flying Monday of Thanksgiving week is the best deal with the lowest average ticket price ($486) prior to the holiday.
There may even be deals to be had. Visit Orlando's Black Friday deal, which can be used over the holiday weekend. Starting Nov. 19, Visit Orlando will offer an extra 10 percent off all purchases at OrlandoTickets. com with GIFT code.)
And Cruise Critic's McDaniel added that while holiday sailings tend to be more expensive and sell out early, cruisers could grab a last-minute deal, especially if they can drive to a port -- and there are nearly two dozen to choose from.
The Isaacsons and two other families opted to cruise at Thanksgiving for many years because "it was a great way for everybody to enjoy a vacation because there was so much to do for the kids, as well as the adults," Rachelle Isaacson said. "We only stopped cruising when our oldest children started college and were not off the entire week of Thanksgiving." They now opt for a Christmas getaway at Vista Verde Ranch in Colorado, she said. "We love not all the activities but the fact that our children cannot really access their social media because of the Wi-Fi situation, which forces them to play games as a family and spend quality time together."
That's an important reason why families want to get away together -- even choosing Thanksgiving for a bucket list trip.
Vacationing during the Thanksgiving holidays, families say, offer an opportunity for a unique and meaningful holiday gift and a much-needed opportunity for (mostly) stress free family time.
With far fewer dishes to wash!
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