vacations

I'm asking for your help; Summer is ending soon and I need vacation suggestions. I'm debating going glamping, but I kind of want to try a fitness retreat, which is something I've never done before. And even though I can turn any vacation into a fit one by renting a bike, going on a hike, or spending hours walking and sightseeing, I'm looking for something a little more structured.

I've read about surf retreats, bikini boot camps in Costa Rica, and mountain biking in Moab. I know that yoga retreats are becoming more popular, and that resorts like Canyon Ranch offer all sorts of spa and wellness packages. My problem is that I don't know anyone who's ever gone on a fitness retreat. If any of you have tried it, I'd love to hear your thoughts! Tell me what you think in the comments below, and maybe you can help end my last-minute vacation anxiety.

The more the merrier. The family vacation is just as likely to include friends, as it is family these days. Arranging a trip with another family not only gives the adults and tots added companionship, it provides added sources of entertainment and potential babysitting throughout the stay. For couples with friends located in various parts of the country, the group holiday can get the kids acquainted while the adults catch up.

But planning a group getaway requires careful planning. Before finding a date and location that everyone can agree upon, couples must identify other families that will make compatible travel companions. Sharing similar parenting philosophies, wake and bedtimes and ability to stray from the plan will maintain order once everyone comes together.

Do you travel with other families, or do you stick to smaller vacations?

Mommy Dearest,

My husband's parents' 50th anniversary is coming up in December and they offered to take the entire family on a trip to celebrate. They selected a cruise that does not return until the 5th of January. While the trip works for the rest of the family, it means my preschooler and kindergartener will miss the first two days back to school after Winter break. My mother-in-law says that I shouldn't worry because the children are young. Though I am grateful for the vacation, I am wary of the kids missing class. Should we skip the trip?

– Cruisin' in Lieu of School Mama

To see the response from Mommy Dearest, read more

Get your walking shoes on and prepare to see the bright lights of some of our nation's biggest cities! Families looking to explore the culture and variety that urban centers offer can do so in the comfort of their own homes with projects and foods that celebrate the metropolitan destinations. Our week of big-city "Non Voyages" kicks off in the largest one of all – New York City.

• Start the morning off with Eloise's favorite mealtime delight — room service.  Kids will love seeing their breakfast served bedside.
• Lady Liberty has long been a hot spot for families visiting the Big Apple and the just reopened crown provides great inspiration for tots. There are 354 steps from the base to the top of the statue.  Have kids try to stack that many blocks to see the height. And, use construction paper to create your own crown hats.
• The Museum of Natural History is known for its dinosaur exhibit so put together some 3D dinosaur puzzles and study the giants.
• Even though it's not as bright as the lights of Times Square, check to see if there are any local theater productions that appeal to your tots. Introducing children to theater is wonderful even if you're way off Broadway!  Or, prepare for a marathon of Disney movies including The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Mary Poppins, all of which are currently playing in the Big Apple.
• They say there's a great pizza shop on every corner of New York.  Get down to business in the kitchen and create the ultimate thin-crust pie. Just  be sure to eat it like a New Yorker – folded down the middle with the grease dripping off.
• Serendipity's frozen hot chocolate is beloved by all visitors to the city.  Re-create it at home and give your kids a new perspective on the treat.