“Family vacation” once meant packing the kids in a car. But today more and more families are taking young children to far-flung places or sending teenagers on their own escorted adventures, according to the U.S. Tour Operators Association, whose 120 members account for the vacations of more than 10 million people yearly.

Below is a sample of adventures designed by USTOA member companies specifically for young travelers.

For Parents and Kids to age 12
Open childrens’ eyes to the natural wonders of Hawaii with a family package that includes binoculars, sunglasses, an activity guide, T-shirts, and even a backpack for each youngster. Valid through December 24, 2004, this five-night/six day “Kids Need Vacations Too!” package offers a choice of participating properties on the island of Maui. Included are accommodations in ocean view rooms, rental car, food credits and other value added features. Land-only Family-plan prices begin at $464 each for two adults and up to two children age 12 and under. (Runaway)

For High School Students
Learning and Living in London makes this 28-day “Summer Advantage Fast Track” program for high school students a favorite. Students take courses that include art, history, design, economics, theater, English literature and other subjects. Students depart for London on June 25, 2005, staying at Richmond, the American International University in London. The program includes ground transportation, single or double room and board, 18 meals weekly, walking tours, museum visits, theater events and day trips under supervision of a Resident Director and staff. Prices including airfare: from New York $6,299, Chicago,$6,899, and Los Angeles $6,999. (ACIS)

London, Paris and Rome all become classrooms for high school students, on this 7-day educational tour to the great favorite cities. Included are sightseeing tours, visits to special attractions, a full time bilingual tour director, triple or quad accommodations in two or three-star hotels with private bathroom, plus breakfasts and dinner daily. Transportation within the UK and Europe is by overnight train including the famous Eurostar. Prices through September, 2005, including airfare, begin at $1,495 from Los Angeles, $1,325 from New York and $1,370 from Chicago. (EF)

For College-Age and Young Adults
Sharing a travel experience to Paris, Lucerne, Florence, and Rome with 18-35 year olds from other English-speaking countries (including Australia, Canada, Great Britain, South Africa, and Singapore) may be the learning experience of a lifetime. A 14-day “European Discovery” itinerary includes transportation in Europe by private motorcoach accompanied by a tour manager and driver. Per person prices, double occupancy, until November 30, 2004, and from December 30 to March 31, 2005, including airfare: from New York, $1,475; Chicago, $1,575 and Los Angeles, $1,645. Land-only prices begin at $1,155. (Contiki)

More Information
For more vacation choices by activity, destination, or even personality preferences, visit www.ustoa.com, or see your travel agent. To qualify for USTOA membership, a company must meet the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program to help protect consumers in the case of a member default. For a free copy of the USTOA Smart Travelers Planning Kit, phone 1-800-GO-USTOA (468-7862).

# # #

Download this release in Word format

---