For most, the mere thought of having to pack their children into the car for more than an hour is daunting. Yet there are families who willingly choose to squeeze kids and luggage into the minivan and hit the road for nine hours at a time … all for a great family vacation. “A vacation?” you laugh, “That’s impossible!” But before you nix the idea, take a second look at the concept of a family road trip.
Why take a road trip? Rabbi Menachem Deutsch founder of the Atlanta Scholars Kollel and father of nine has taken his family on countless road trips over the past twenty-five years logging some 75 000 miles along the way. “There is no substitute for road trips ” Rabbi Deutsch explains with a smile “since the main thing that children remember is the time spent together not the particular activity. Road trips allow for more quality family time together than any other vacation.”
Of course pulling off such a getaway with nine children is no easy feat but Rabbi Deutsch stresses that it is well worth the effort. “The memories my children have from these trips are priceless. In fact this past summer when they had the option to stay in one place for a few days or drive another ten hours and have less vacation time they chose to drive!”
Ode to the Road
Road trips offer families a great way to spend time together without breaking the bank. In addition to avoiding plane or train fare families can also save money by not paying for expensive destinations. It’s easy to find cheap motels along the road and there’s also low budget lodging available at campground cabins. Though families do have to bring their own linens cabins offer a roof over their heads electricity mattresses and fully functioning bathrooms and showers. The Spartan-style accommodations make good fodder for jokes and lasting memories.
In addition road trips also offer more freedom and flexibility. There are no baggage limitations and families can control their departure and arrival time daily itinerary and the number of stops along the way. It can also be tailored to accommodate varying ages of children. Families with a wide spectrum of ages can choose different activities for each day keeping both teens and toddlers happy.
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