Why you should start planning your trip with your teenager – Reading Eagle

You may have recently felt a certain sense of oneness with your teenagers. But when was the last time you went out for fun? Here are five reasons to start planning now:

1. Your teenager cherishes the special time spent with you

Indeed, they may initially resist considering big games, Heather’s birthday party, or Jason’s upcoming gatherings. However, there are always some catch-up events and events on the teen calendar that you can’t miss.

After providing some of his favorite music, they have a lot to share with their friends. Head to Nashville, Tennessee, home of the Grand Ole Opry and the pinnacle of country music, to find out how simple radio shows created a global entertainment phenomenon. From industry legends to the latest celebrities, you can taste history with a contemporary dose of the “Home of American Music” genre. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, Bluebird Cafe, and Johnny Cash Museum. Ask questions about behind-the-scenes passes, behind-the-scenes tours and family packages. Or spoil your teenager with a ticket to see their favorite pop star on stage in Las Vegas. Stay at Four Seasons, a gorgeous oasis rather than playing around, and avoid some of the bright light.

Contact: www.opry.com; www.visitmusiccity.com; www.fourseasons.com/lasvegas

2. Your teen can benefit from nature’s healing attributes

Benefits include extending conversations after running out of social media to check in and sports scores to review. So squeeze your personal levitation device and share the thrill of descending Idaho’s Middle Fork on the Salmon River. There, trout are plentiful, the hot springs provide a welcoming warm-up and the bubbling rapids stimulate adrenaline. Otherwise, avoid the crowds and head to the largest and southernmost of Georgia’s barrier islands. Pristine beaches, mudflats, dunes and salt marshes provide rest for coastal birds, sea turtles, wild turkeys and wild horses. Kayaking, fishing, day hikes. Enjoy the blessings of the stars seen from your family’s campsite. (There is no other accommodation on the island.) A daily 30-minute dockside program gives you an overview of the island’s history, culture and ecosystem.

Contact: www.oars.com; www.nps.gov/cuis

3. Your teenager may be feeling stressed.

It’s a complicated world. And these are complex times. And there may be colleges and careers to consider. So for now, why not kick back and give it some old school style? Plan a trip to Migis Lodge in southern Maine on the shores of Lake Saranak, where families have been attached since 1916. Enjoy swimming, paddles, floats, skiing and sailing during the day. Then, gather your clan and sample lobster and clan pastries before spending an evening of games by the fire in a cozy chalet.

Contact: www.migis.com

4. Your teenager is curious

So why not explore a new place together?

Take the time to plan an epic journey to discuss over the next several decades. Consider an adventure created by a travel industry professional at Tauck. Through their tack bridge program, you can expect hands-on learning, extraordinary adventures, and a glimpse into local culture. Choose from a trip that includes the rainforest of Costa Rica, the wilderness of Tanzania, the Swiss Alps or the Galapagos Islands and create more lasting memories than the latest gadgets and trendy fashion items. Check out the company’s planning tools designed to give parents (and grandparents) colorful options to entice a young ensemble into the vacation design process. After all, expectations are part of the adventure.

Contact: www.Tauck.com

5. Your teen will be gone before you know it

You will soon be moving your young adult to a dormitory or apartment. So for now, get your costume and sunscreen ready and enjoy some quality time on the island. In Hawaii, explore torch-lit trails, native birds and vegetation, and the world-famous luau at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island. Savor meals on the sandy beach and hula dance in Kauai, snorkel in Maui, or relax and surf or swim in Oahu.

Contact: www.gohawaii.com

Note: Travel restrictions and requirements continue to evolve due to health and environmental development. Please check your arrangements frequently just before departure.

Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and avid explorer. Collect more travel information via Twitter @ lohayes, Facebook or FamilyTravel.com