Holiday decorations have been packed away, resolutions made – and for some already broken – as the New Year wears on, so does the need for personal renewal.
A family vacation – whether taken on a warm, sunny beach or in the halls of one of North America’s most interesting museums – is one of the best ways to achieve just that. For many MOMeos, finding the perfect destination is just another chore on the already overwhelming to-do list.
This year we have made it as simple as 1, 2, 3. Decide which type of vacation suits your family best, choose from our list of top destinations and pack your bags – relaxation awaits.
Surf, Sand and Seafood
The beaches of North America are as varied as her coastlines. From the heat, sun and fine white sands of Hawaii’s best beaches to the wild, hike-worthy beaches of the Pacific Northwest and south, the seashore offers something to every type of family. For some, that means soaking up some rays, or relaxing among grassy dunes, or beachcombing for treasures.
A Slower Pace
For families looking to step back in both time and pace, Amish Country, Pennsylvania and the not-so-wild west of Montana and 
Wyoming are excellent choices.
The quaint inns of Amish country and the simple, charming dude ranches of the west offer rest of a different kind. Cozy up around a campfire, saddle up and work cattle or indulge in good Amish cooking and entertaining theater.
Either way, enjoy a momentary break from the fast-paced world. Immerse yourself in a slower, simpler time. One when work was still hard, but deadlines perhaps a little less rigid.
Shop Until You Drop
For shopaholics, there’s no better vacation than one spent around some of the continent’s best shops.
The shiny storefronts of the Big Apple, Chicago and Hollywood will remain, but it’s possible to find a more family-friendly shop-mosphere. Check out the quirky independent districts of San Francisco and Toronto, but the flea markets in Shipshewana, Indiana may just reign supreme.
A Winter Wonderland
For some, “vacation” means escaping snow and ice. For others with the right gear (and attitude) the white stuff is reason to
celebrate.
Strap on snowshoes or cross-country skis and trek across any one of many winter wonderlands. Hit Colorado’s slopes in skis, snowboards and tubes as a family for faster-paced fun.
The Great Outdoors
Mother Nature has given us much to admire. Redwood forests, a Grand Canyon, and the vast wilderness that spans much of Canada and Alaska.
In 2010, why not consider admiring her works from within? Mammoth Cave – and many others – located in Kentucky, offers a glimpse at Nature’s underbelly.
Fun in Learning
Do you love learning as a family? Can’t justify a school-free week for the kids just after the holiday season? Combine family fun 
and learning by visiting one of North America’s most history-rich cities.
Consider Washington, D.C. ripe with national monuments and museums. Its only rival? Montreal, Quebec, one of the most beautiful and history-rich old towns outside Europe.
No matter the destination or itinerary, the key to a successful vacation is enjoying time with family. Takea technology break, soak in your surroundings and engage wholly in whatever you choose.
