Some people might think we were crazy or claim that they could never handle it, but we loved it. Before having our third son, we took road trips to Alaska, the Florida Keys, California, Texas, and everywhere in between. We even took a week-long cruise (which they still say is the best vacation we've ever taken.) In fact, our two oldest sons have been to 41 states and 4 countries. Unfortunately, by the time our third son was born, gas prices had skyrocketed and taking road trips was much more expensive. We have taken a couple of trips with him, including a trip to Texas to visit friends, a wedding in Florida, and two trips to Hilton Head.
We have a system and have found ways to travel cheaply. We've even toyed with the idea of writing a book on the subject. Because of the aforementioned gas prices, we have only taken short trips fairly close to home. For the last three years, Spring Break has consisted of an overnight trip to our college town and the next big city, where we could visit some favorite restaurants and stay in a hotel.
On this year's trip, we came to the realization that we are entering into a new phase of family travel. One room with two double or queen beds is just not enough, with a child who is as big as an adult, and another who is fast on his way to that size, not to mention two parents and a five-year old. So, on this year's trip, we got two double rooms with a connecting door. Mom and two kids in one, and Dad and one kid in the other. This is going to make traveling with the whole family a little more expensive, but a little more comfortable than crowding us all in one room.
It sounds like you have created many wonderful memories with your family! Enjoy the upgrade!
ReplyDeleteAdventures with the kids will never be forgotten and you certainly will never regret them. My daughter that is twenty three years old and now married will often take road trips still with us and we lost our son when he was only 15 years old. We often reminisce about our trips as a family. So, enjoy the moments!
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for your loss, Kris. I'm sure the memories of those special times give you comfort.
DeleteI love suites. A bedroom and a living area with pull out couches, etc. Much better than a regular hotel room. My vacation is next week! I cannot wait!
ReplyDeleteThese are the best memories to make. Your kids will never forget them!
ReplyDeleteCarolyn,
ReplyDeleteI remember when we ran into this problem. We also found staying in "suites" could add a pull out couch. It wasn't quite as expensive as two rooms, but there was still space for everyone to sleep. Of course, some places will also add a small folding bed for a small extra fee.
However, you decide to make it work, I know your family will have a great time.
Cathy
Yes, we have gotten creative. Luckily, on this trip, we found a nice place and got two rooms for the price of one room in a more "name brand" hotel. The big boys each got their own bed and the only ones who had to share were me and Nick. They loved it!
DeleteHaving three kids always makes hotels a challenge! And my kids are small enough to squeeze into a suite or two doubles. And road trips are the best. Enjoy!
ReplyDelete