Day 4

On the rugged coast of Maine, you will take a scenic and educational cruise aboard a lobster boat for an insider’s view of the life of Maine lobstermen. 

After a walking tour of Portland’s Old Port, you will continue on to New Hampshire’s scenic White Mountains, where you’ll enjoy a most interesting Raven interpretive program.

Day 5

Today you will explore the splendor of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the beauty of Franconia Notch, and Vermont’s famous Green Mountains. 

This is a highlight of all New England tours, especially in the autumn.   Pay a visit to another of America’s oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning, Dartmouth College, in Hanover, NH, before continuing on to Plymouth, Vermont.

Day 6

With its quaint covered bridge, Woodstock is a quintessential Vermont village.  The Billings Farm and Museum provides insights into life in rural Vermont, past and present.  In Plymouth, visit the birthplace of Calvin Coolidge, and see the historic buildings constructed by his father in 1890.

Day 7

In Stockbridge, yo’ëll enjoy an in-depth look at the life and talent of illustrator Norman Rockwell, and view many of his famous Saturday Evening Post covers at the Norman Rockwell Museum. 

You’ll discover for yourself why the rolling beauty of the Berkshire Hills provides such inspiration to artists and writers as you continue on to Williamstown for a one-night stay in this historic old town.

Day 8

Today, you will return to Boston via the Connecticut River’s scenic Pioneer Valley as you wind your way back to your hotel and airport for your flight home. 

This New England foliage tour will not only encompass historic attractions, but it is a photographer’s dream to be able to capture the many colors of autumn.  Your kids can pick a variety of leaves and save them for the family scrapbook to commemorate this wonderful family vacation, and the kaleidoscope of colors will be a great souvenir of this magical holiday.

Start planning now, for the trip of a life-time. You can never be sure exactly when the leaves are going to start turning into their rainbow of colors. In 2008 it was early August and they were past their prime by early to mid-September, so watch the Weather Channel’s foliage alerts, and be prepared to go at a moment’s notice!

One of the most beautiful seasons of the year to visit New England for some leaf peeping is late August to early September, when the leaves begin to turn color.  

Why not plan a Fall Foliage trip to New England with your family this year?  Take a look at a sample itinerary, which that is sure to include sights and activities your whole family will enjoy.

Day 1

Arrive in Boston and get settled in your hotel. Walk along the Charles river, do some shopping, dine out at one of the many excellent restaurants, and get ready for your historic trip to Boston.

Day 2

Today you will explore the rich history of the area as you view some of its most famous sites, such as the Old North Church, South Meeting House, and the common where Washington took command of the Continental Army. 

See two of America’s oldest and most venerable institutions of higher learning,  Harvard University, and its sister school Radcliffe College.

Day 3

Your family will follow the route of Paul Revere’s ride through Lexington and Concord to warn the citizens that the British were coming as you visit these historic Massachusetts towns. 

Although it may be best known for its infamous witches, Salem’s Federal-Era townhouses and beautifully preserved pre-1900 residences are impressive as well.  Continue on to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, first settled by Europeans in the 17th century, on this particularly historic New England tour. As you drive, enjoy the breathtaking colors of autumn.

Day 4

Today enjoy a completely free day in Munich to shop, eat some great German food, explore the city, go on a tour of the main sights, or visit the museums.

Day 5

Enjoy an organized day trip with private bus and guide to visit two of Bavaria’s most-photographed castles:  Schloss Neuschwanstein (the inspiration for Disneyland’s famous Cinderella castle) and King Ludwig’s Linderhof, who was said to be the ‘Mad King’ of Munich.

These majestic buildings are two of the finest examples of castles in Germany.

Day 6

Finish your shopping and touring, and head for the airport.

Oktoberfest is known world-wide, as evidenced by the millions of people who visit Germany to attend the festivities every year. Don’t be disappointed. Start planning now for your fall trip to Munich for the Oktoberfest. Your family will have a grand time visiting the castles, shops, great restaurants and, of course, participate in the wonderful festivals, even if they don’t (or are not allowed to) drink beer.

There’s no better time to vacation in Munich than during Oktoberfest.  For a wonderful family vacation, here is a typical package and itinerary that will delight and excite your entire family.  Start planning now to avoid disappointment in the fall, as Oktoberfest is celebrated in Munich by over 6 million people every year.

A Munich Package may include:

* Round-trip airfare. Airport taxes will be additional, and possibly suitcase fees as well, so plan ahead.

* Accommodation including all taxes at a well-located hotel.

* Private deluxe motorcoach transportation.

* One reserved beer tent evening, with dinner and beer.

* Escorted excursion to Oktoberfest with a local guide.

* Breakfast daily, welcome dinner at Hofbrauhaus and traditional dinner in the beer tent.

* Optional day trip to see two of Germany’s most famous castles.

* Free time in Munich for museums and shopping.

* Local bilingual guide and Huron Valley Travel escort.

Here is a sample itinerary:

Day 1

Depart from your home city for a flight to Munich. There are many direct flights from the larger American airports.

Day 2

Upon arrival, you will clear passport security and head for your hotel to unpack. Enjoy a short reconnoiter of of Munich and in the evening join your fellow travelers for a traditional German welcome dinner complete with Bavarian music in the world-famous Hofbrauhaus.

Day 3

Each year the Oktoberfest is attended by 6 million visitors.  Your local guide will escort you by public tram to the festival for a full day of oompah bands, Bavarian treats, and non-stop fun. 

This evening, you will experience Oktoberfest as the locals do, with reserved seats in one of the beer tents.  Each tent has its own unique character – from the relatively intimate 3,400-seat Hippodrome to the 9,300-seat Schottenhamel.

One thing is for sure, there is nothing quite like the atmosphere!

Day 4

Today you can explore Yellowstone’s beautiful backcountry in a leisurely way as you enjoy all that nature has to offer. You might even spot a  bear, though we doubt he will be called Yogi!

Day 5

As you leave Yellowstone for Cody, named after dashing Buffalo Bill Cody, visit the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.  Here you will learn the history of the American cowboy, and about dude ranching, Western conservation, and frontier entrepreneurship. 

Later this evening, you will enjoy the Cody Rodeo, where you will witness America’s original sport with fearless bull riders, high-flying broncos, brawny steer wrestlers, and daredevil rodeo clowns.  The action is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Day 6

This morning you will take a scenic drive through the Bighorn Mountains on your way to the Little Bighorn Battlefield.  Tour the battlegrounds where Custer was defeated by approximately 7,000 Lakota, Cheyenne and Arapaho warriors.  Visit the museum and afterward you will continue on to the cattle town of Sheridan.

Day 7

Today you will journey through the rolling hills of Wyoming’s Powder River Basin and the Black Hills before arriving in South Dakota.  See the Crazy Horse Memorial, which was built in honor of the fearless Sioux Indian chief. 

Afterward, you can explore Mount Rushmore National Park, which features the monumental likenesses of four U.S. Presidents:  Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt.

Day 8

Head back home through Rapid City.

A Wild West adventure may be the best way to find a vacation that offers something for the whole family.

Check out the many Wild West tours available and ascertain which one would be perfect for your family. There is plenty to see and do for all age levels and levels of fitness.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, perhaps a Wild West vacation package would be just the sort of adventure your family is waiting for.

A typical package would include sightseeing in Jackson, Wyoming, a float trip and a chuck wagon dinner, a sightseeing tour of Yellowstone National Park, a visit to Buffalo Bill’s Historical Center and a Cody Rodeo. You might also consider a sightseeing trip to Little Bighorn Battlefield and museum, a visit to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, and a visit to Rapid City.

Here is a typical itinerary:

Day 1

Welcome to the all-Western town of Jackson.  Board a covered wagon and ride into beautiful Cache Creek Canyon for a Chuck Wagon Cookout and Wild West show.

Day 2

Today, you will set out on a river adventure in a comfortable raft that takes you beneath the towering peaks of the Grand Tetons.  Your experienced guide will point out the flora and fauna wildlife indigenous to the area.  In the afternoon, explore the quaint old town.

Day 3

Head north through Grand Teton National Park and on to Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872.  Here you will admire the famous Old Faithful Geyser that has been erupting consistently for more than 100 years. 

Take a scenic drive, stopping at Fountain Paint Pots, where you will see four of the main geothermal features of this area:  fumaroles, geysers, hot springs, and a bubbling mud pot.

 Rejoin the loop road to enjoy photo stops at Yellowstone River’s Lower Falls, which are almost twice as high as Niagara.

Days 6 and 7 – Taurus Mountains

Turkish culture is rich in the villages of the Taurus Mountains.  Your family will have a great time exploring this picturesque region.  You will also visit Sultanhan Caravanseri and the Museum of Rumi, hike the Grotto of the Golden Cradle, and watch a soccer game, a favorite pastime here in Turkey.

Days 8 and 9- Antalya

Where the Taurus Mountains recede from the shore, set high up on the cliffs, you’ll find the picturesque seaside town of Antalya.  You’ll stop at Koprulu Canyon National Park for some wonderful white-water rafting. 

The Koprulu River has crystal clear waters and towering canyon walls that reach up to 1,300 feet high.  These two days will also incorporate a hike to Termessos, and time to just relax and enjoy nature.

Days 10 to 13 – Yachting along the Mediterranean Coast

Over the next four days, you can take a yacht along the Turquoise Coast, dropping anchor at quiet coves, sheltered beaches and small harbor towns.

Your family will have many opportunities to swim, snorkel, hike, and explore.  There is fun for the whole family as you hike to a Crusader Castle and Roman Ruins, visit the Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus), and explore Gemiler Island and Kayakoy.

Days 14 and 15 – Istanbul

You can see the great dome for miles and miles; it has been rebuilt three times in 200 years and it is the last relic of Constantinople.

You will visit the Hagia Sophia museum, which remains Turkey’s most incredible landmark, and your family can explore this marble masterpiece inside and out.

Make sure you soak up the local markets and finish up any last minute shopping.

Day 16- Depart Istanbul, with loads of souvenirs and memories that will last a lifetime.

This once-in-a-lifetime vacation will be remembered for years to come.  Ensure that you have the proper documentation such as passports, Visas, before you go.  Also check to determine if you need any vaccinations for this trip depending on time of year and which part of the country you will be touring.

If you are planning a two-week vacation during the cooler months in the USA and want to head somewhere warm and interesting, there is no better family destination than Istanbul, Turkey.  Here is a sample itinerary you may like to consider.

Days 1, 2, 3- Arrive Istanbul, start your sightseeing

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, where your Turkey family vacation begins. Get accustomed to the hotel, heat and food, and begin touring the city.

You will get a chance to breathe in some of the flavorful culture at the famous Spice Market, where you can buy countless kinds of spices, seasonings, teas and candy, including the succulent rose-flavored or lemon-flavored Turkish Delight.  Also included are tours to The Blue Mosque, the Spice Market, and Topkapi Palace.  You can visit the great domed mosque now, or later in your trip when you return to Istanbul.

Days 4 and 5- Cappadocia

Located in a region that was once volcanic, Cappadocia is known for its exceptional rock formations and valleys.  As unusually beautiful as these are above ground, the limestone rock formations are even more impressive below the surface, as you and the family will discover when you climb down four stories into one of the largest underground cities ever built, known as Kaymakli.

In addition, the following are also highly recommended:  Hike the Valley of the Spears, visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum, and see the Terracotta Pottery Workshop.

While in Salzberg, you can also make arrangements to visit the home of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and follow in his footsteps. He was born here on January 27, 1756. 

Today the rooms once occupied by the Mozart family have become a museum.  The most famous exhibits include Mozart’s childhood violin, his concert violin, his clavichord, the pianoforte, portraits and correspondence of the Mozart family.

There is also the training school for the incredible Royal Lippizaner stallions, beautiful horses trained in a method that stretches back hundreds of years.

Salzburg has fabulous food and lots of old world charm.  Just watch your waistline with the fabulous food and cakes (tortes). You will soon learn the phrase ‘mitt schlag’ because they put whipped cream on everything!

As you return home from this amazing vacation, your family is sure to be singing many of the songs from The Sound of Music, and humming Mozart as you eat the most amazing marzipan.

Salzburg is great any time of the year, but you can really enjoy a sound of music tour in the spring or fall, when there are fewer tourists.

What child, or adult for that matter, wouldn’t like to spend a week in Salzburg?  Well, if you are considering a family vacation this year that combines old world charm with lots to do, consider Salzberg, Austria.

A typical vacation package to Salzberg would include:

* Round-trip airfare from your home city. Taxes and baggage fees will be extra, so budget accordingly.

* Accommodation in Salzberg

* Daily continental breakfast

* Hotel taxes and service charges

There is a variety of accommodation to suit your wallet and number of people traveling with you.

The highlight of this trip, of course, would be the Sound of Music Tour.  Take a wonderful ride with breathtaking views of the landscape where the opening scenes were filmed.  Relax and listen to the original Sound of Music soundtrack. 

An English-speaking guide not only shows you the highlights of the film, but also the historical and architectural landmarks in the city, as well as part of the picturesque Lake District.

Most of the tours would include the following sites:

Mirabell Gardens

The Mirabell Gardens were laid out in the 18th century.  Maria and the children were seen dancing around the statue of Pegasus, the winged horse, and throughout the gardens singing ‘Do-Re-Mi’.

Leopoldskron Castle

The front side of the castle was used as the von Trapp family home, where the children were boating on the Leopoldskron Lake and fell into the water.  The Venetian room was copied from the castle and used as the ballroom.

Hellbrunn Castle

This hunting castle was built in the early 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus.  In the gardens, the glass pavilion was reconstructed for the pleasure of those fans still returning after 40 years.

Nonnberg Abbey

Nonnberg Abbey is the oldest convent in the German-speaking part of Europe.  Maria was a novice there.  The baron and Maria were married there in 1927.  The scenes for the movie made here, include the opening scene wherein the nuns were going to Mass.  Remember Maria running to the Abbey after spending a morning singing on the hillside.

St. Gilgen and Lake Wolfgang

The scenery shown at the beginning of the movie was filmed at Lake Fuschl on the way to St. Gilgen.  Like the Mozart family, visitors from all over the world appreciate the beautiful village in the Salzkammergut.

Wedding Church Mondsee

Visit the Mondsee Cathedral, where the film wedding between Julie Andrews as Maria and Christopher Plummer as the Baron, took place.