Wilmington – “Hey look, kids, there’s Big Ben, and there’s Parliament.” Many people remember that quote from a famous movie centered entirely on a family vacation. Now is the time when millions of families across the country are starting to plan their own getaways for spring break, summer vacation and long holiday weekends throughout the year.
According to a recent AAA survey more than one-third of Americans, 35%, are planning to take a vacation of 50 miles or more away from home involving two or more immediate family members this year. 70% of families are planning to take one or two vacations and 28% plan to take three or more vacations, a 13% jump over 2016.
“Families continue to see the value of traveling as a way to bond and reconnect in today’s busy world,” said Suzanne Aresco, CTIE, Director of Online Travel Sales, AAA Club Alliance Inc. “The best way to wrap up a family vacation is to start planning the next one, as more and more Americans are starting to do.”
Top vacations for families:
Road Trip – 79%
National Parks – 51%
Theme Parks – 40%
International Destinations – 33%
Guided or Escorted Tours – 22%
Ocean Cruises – 20%
Those planning to pack up their cars for a road trip this year will be in good company. Compared to 2016, 10 percent more families are expected to take road trips this year, despite average gas prices that are 47 cents higher than they were this time last year.
To help families find the best hotels and restaurants, AAA’s professional inspectors have evaluated nearly 59,000 hotels and restaurants across North America. Their top picks for family-friendly AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants can be found here.
And before setting out on a family vacation, travelers should contact their local AAA office for the expert advice of a trusted travel adviser who can provide personalized service and first-hand destination knowledge to create a memorable vacation experience. Also, download the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can be used to map a route, find the lowest gas prices, access exclusive member discounts, find nearly 59,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, request roadside assistance and more. For more information or to begin planning a trip, visit AAA.com/Travel.
Source: AAA Mid-Atlantic