Welcome to the May 2004 edition of SINGLE PARENT TRAVEL e-zines - a continuing series of monthly newsletters created for the community of single adults who travel alone with kids.

To sign up for our newsletter go to http://www.SingleParentTravel.net. Forward this newsletter to a friend!

In this issue:

I. GLOBAL BRENDA'S MESSAGE
II. SINGLE PARENT TOURS
II. TIPS ON BECOMING AN ORGANIZED AND WELL PREPARED TRAVELING FAMILY
IV. MEETING SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES
V. UNCOVERED ­ SINGLE PARENT TRAVEL SPECIALS
VI. SUBSCRIBERS SPEAK UP-REQUESTS, INQUIRIES, COMMENTS

I. GLOBAL BRENDA'S MESSAGE

Dear Readers,

For those faithful readers who were "breathlessly" awaiting our May newsletter - my apologies for being so late. I was focused on a major problem. On May 11th, we experienced a very bad thunderstorm that fried one of my phone lines as well as one of my phones. After countless daily calls to MCI's customer service and repair departments, finally, late last Friday night, a technician showed up at my doorstep. In less than an hour, he laid all new phone lines throughout my domicile and I was back in business! I made sure to get his inside number before he left.

Ever think about taking your kids to Las Vegas? For years Vegas was intent upon attracting more families, adding rides and attractions that appeal to children. About two years ago the city did an about face and decided to revert to its former "Sin City" image. It was determined that families spent less time gambling, and thus less money, than their fellow tourists who arrived "sans children." Despite the change of face, the percentage of families coming to Las Vegas has continued to increase. Even if Las Vegas is not your ideal family vacation spot, it makes a great jumping off point for exciting outdoor vacations such as Zion and Bryce National Parks as well as the Lake Mead area. If Las Vegas is in your family vacation plans, be sure to check out this brand new Web site: http://www.LasVegasKids.com. Along with information on kid-friendly hotels and activities, it offers a terrific list of 25 kid-friendly freebees. As we approach summer, I thought it appropriate to include some travel tips to help your family be more organized and better prepared to enjoy your annual vacation. I published these suggestions in one of our 2001 newsletters. Since then we have thousands of new subscribers who I hope will enjoy these timely tips. For those of you who prefer to travel with a group, consider joining one of our Single Parent Tours' summer departures. See details below. Until next month...

Happy Travels!
GlobalBrenda

II. SINGLE PARENT TOURS

UTAH - August 1-7, 2004
We already have several single parent families booked on this adventure trip to southern Utah's glorious Red Rock Country. We'll be joined by many other families with kids ranging from pre-teens to teens. In addition to the rafting trip, the tour includes a hummer excursion into Red Rock country as well as ample time to hike, bike, or shop. Remember, rafting novices are welcome! For more information on this trip see: http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/Utah.htm or call 877-GOGO-SPT to book.

  JAMAICA - August 15-22, 2004
SingleParentTours has over 30 people under deposit and inquiries are coming in daily. This all-inclusive trip to Beaches Boscobel should sell out earlier than last year. To read all about it, click on: http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/Beaches.htm

ROCKING HORSE RANCH - November 19-21, 2004
We already have two families under deposit for Rocking Horse Ranch Resort, located in the beautiful Hudson Valley area north of New York City. This all-inclusive weekend was a rousing success last year. We had 13 families booked before the hotel sold out and we expect an even bigger response this year. For more information and to check out the endless list of activities, visit:
http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/RockingHorse.htm

In addition we plan to have a "haunted" October weekend in Salem, Massachusetts. The kids will love it! More information will be available in our next newsletter.

CRUISE 2005

Many thanks to those who responded to my survey asking if you preferred a cruise during spring break or in early June. The tally was slightly in favor of the spring break cruise, although many of you said you could travel in either time period. Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, those of you who said you preferred spring break, had vacation times that varied from state to state. Some were a week before Easter, some the week after, others early in March and others late in April. (FYI, Easter Sunday falls on March 27 in the year 2005). Based on the survey information it appears that the time frame that would attract the most people would be early June. Thanks again for the feedback. I will go back to the cruise lines and explore some early June dates. To book or obtain further information on our trips, click on:
http://www.SingleParentTours.com or call 877-GOG-SPT and ask for Janet.

III. ORGANIZATION AND PLANNING -TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR TRIP
There are three key elements in preparing for your trip: (If your vacation plans consist of a fully escorted tour or spending a week on the beach and merely moving between the sand and the surf, you can skip points 1 and 2).

# 1 - DO YOUR RESEARCH
Whether you are planning a hiking trip to the American West, a driving tour of the historical sites and theme parks in the East or a trip to Walt Disney World, you and your kids need to do some research to determine where and how you want to spend your time. Make it a family project. It helps if your kids choose their research assignments from a list you provide. Buy a tour book on the Web or at your local bookstore and have your kids research some information on the Web. Unless you work for a dot-com, your kids can probably do the research faster than you. Once you have gathered up enough information, have a family meeting to make your vacation decisions. How long will you stay in one area? What trails will you definitely hike? What theme park rides are a must? Explore rainy day activities in case of inclement weather. My kids' pediatrician, who is a global adventure traveler like us, once told me when you travel with kids, spend 1/3 of your time doing activities that they like, 1/3 doing what you like, and 1/3 of your time doing things you all like. I held to that formula whenever possible and found it worked quite well.

# 2 - TYPE UP AN ITINERARY
I'll bet your first thought is "This is crazy. I don't have time to type up an itinerary. Why do we need one to go to Walt Disney World or some other theme park?" Trust me. The hour or two you spend typing an itinerary with rainy day alternatives will save you hours of time and frustration during your vacation. In all the years I traveled as a single parent with my kids, from kindergarten through college, we never once argued about what we were going to do that day. We argued about a lot of other things on our trips, but never that. They simply got up in the morning and asked "What's on the itinerary for today?" Even though our itineraries were always flexible, and often could be changed on a moment's notice, they took for granted that what was on paper, was what we did that day. End of discussion.

Itineraries can be as simple as one short page or as long as two or three. By pre-planning and writing down our ride sequence at theme parks, we never waited in long lines, even at Walt Disney World in high season. It is also important to add a page of hotel and rental car information to the itinerary, including confirmation numbers, the local phone number and address of the hotel with local directions to get there. More than once I have had to find a hotel in the dark by myself with sleepy kids in the car. The idea is to eliminate difficulties and stress, in advance. Through the years our itineraries became more detailed, often including research facts, and have made a nice handout for family members staying at home, as well as a wonderful addition to our photo albums.

# 3 - TYPE UP A PACKING LIST
I have a family packing list stored in my computer that I have revised and used for nearly twenty years. My college-age son still asks for it when he packs for a family trip. Print it out and hand it out to each child who can read. Tell them to check off or cross off each item as they pack it. It makes younger kids feel independent, even though they will need some packing help from you. It also smoothes the way with teen-agers who prefer minimal verbal communication with parents, especially of an instructional nature.

Several weeks before the trip you should start jotting things down on a list and invite your kids to do the same. Put down everything you will need and be very specific - 7 changes of underwear, rather than just saying underwear. For teen-agers, mark down batteries for the omnipresent portable CD player and for the wee ones, mark down a favorite toy or teddy and 3 favorite books. For packing suggestions and sample packing lists, go to my Web site: http://www.singleparenttravel.net/Writing/Pack/

You are going to need a simple first aid kit, the contents of which will be determined by your destination and the ages of your kids. Carry lots of zip lock plastic bags, always useful. You will also need to be prepared for delayed flights, unexpected waits in line at restaurants, museums, whatever, so pack travel games, cards, (Uno is great!), toys and books, some favorites and some new ones. Carry a small book bag or backpack on your back so you are prepared with these items. If your kids are old enough, have them each carry their own, or each of you take turns with the book bag. Include some juice or water and some nutritious snacks. For single parent moms, if you haven't already done so, get rid of that purse! You need both hands free.

(For more tips on single parent family travel as well as ways to save money and entertaining stories, consider purchasing a copy of "The Single Parent Travel Handbook." Buy your copy anywhere books are sold or get an autographed copy here: http://www.singleparenttravel.net/book/

IV. MEETING OTHER SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES

Maria10021 is looking for activity partners, "I am looking for activity partners in the NYC area. The summer is here! I have a 5 (going on 11) year old son. I am a native NY'er and enjoy doing things outside of the city. If this is something you might be interested in let's exchange some more information in private e-mails. Perhaps then meet (without children) talk about our parenting / travel ideas and see if it seems like all involved would enjoy!" Reply at:
http://p080.ezboard.com/fsingleparenttravelfrm1.deleteSingle?topicID=66.topic&index=2

Maui Gal is planning for something we only dream about! "Hello, My name is Sarah and I have a 6 year old. I am paying off debt and then saving for a round the world trip with my daughter for about 1 year (she will be [simile omitted]. Has anyone done anything like this? We are from Hawaii (where we live) and will go to Bali, Indonesia then Thailand, India and various parts of Africa (my ex husband's country) then on to Europe and back to Hawaii. Any advice, tips, personal experiences.... I am interested in making male or female friends of the adventurous type who aspire to world travel and living and working abroad. Write me at back here then we can do personal email! mahalo and aloha!" Reply to her at:
http://p080.ezboard.com/fsingleparenttravelfrm13.showMessage?topicID=18.topic

See all the bulletin boards at
http://www.singleparenttravel.net/BBoards/

Please note that this bulletin board service is provided free of charge to our readers. The Single Parent Travel Network does not monitor postings or have any knowledge of the exact nature of the individuals doing the posting. BEFORE communicating with anyone on the bulletin board, please take precautions to protect you and your family. Also, please note that if you post your email address on the bulletin board, there is a likelihood that it will be harvested by spammers. Thank you.

V. UNCOVERED ­ SINGLE PARENT TRAVEL SPECIALS

SP Special #1 - Rocking Horse Ranch, Hudson Valley, NY November 19-21 Last year's trip, hosted by Single Parent Tours, was a great success. We had thirteen single parent families and already have several families booked for this fall's trip!! The Rocking Horse Ranch Resort is located in the beautiful Hudson Valley area north of New York City. This all-inclusive weekend will take place from November 19 to 21. Prices (for one adult and one child) start at: $537. For more information and to check out the endless list of activities, visit:
http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/RockingHorse.htm

SP Special #2 - Breezes, Curacao
From May 1, 2004 - October 30, 2004, single parents will pay no single supplement charges. In addition, children under 14-years of age will stay free when sharing a room with their parent. Additional children will pay the full child rate, and those over 14 and over will pay the adult rates.

Breezes Curacao has a Camp Breezes for children, a Casino for adults and everything you can eat, drink and do in one price. (Tipping is not permitted.) The resort offers 1,500 feet of Beach, multiple restaurants, bars, outdoor ice-skating rink and trapeze workshops. Call 1-800-GOSUPER for more information.

SP Special #3 - Eastover Resort
This is not exactly a single parent family special, but a number of readers have recommended the resort as a great place for single parent families. When I called the resort, they told me they have since discontinued their single parent family weekend because so many single parents come on the family weeks. Here is a link to their specials: http://www.eastover.com/specials.html

* Don't have a travel agent? Then find one in "The Single Parent Travel Handbook" which has a listing of over 75 travel agents who specialize in single parent travel. Buy the book from any place books are sold or get an autographed copy from GlobalBrenda, the author, at http://www.SingleParentTravel.net/Book/

VI. SUBSCRIBERS SPEAK UP - REQUESTS, INQUIRIES, COMMENTS

D.C. had a horrible experience with documentation, which we felt important to repeat below. Before leaving the country, we urge single parents to read our documentation section found here so as to prevent something like this from happening: http://www.SingleParentTravel.net/Writing/Documentation

D.C. writes, "I was due to depart from Portland Oregon on 4/24/04 w/ my daughter whom is 16. We were traveling to Cancun, Mexico. We arrived at the airport and I had all the appropriate documentation for travel. I have traveled to Mexico 3 times w/ both of my daughters previously and have used the same court documents that I had presented today, which are sole custody papers to the check-in personel. I had also read the Mexican consular pages and I had phoned Continental Airlines customer service to confirm that the documentation that I had in my possession would be sufficient documentation for travel to Mexico with my daughter, but the Continental representative asked me if my ex-husband paid child support and had visitation? I told them yes - but the document does not indicate that he has custody. The document specifically states "Co-petitioner Danielle Carroll is awarded the sole care, custody and control of the minor children of the parties" and the document clearly names my children and birthdates! As a direct result of this action -part of our traveling companions traveled to Cancun and we stayed behind. When I phoned the customer care personel they told me that it was likely that no-one would even contact me regarding this incident! I am a single mother and work hard for my money and save for a special vacation and now I may get 5 of the 8 days planned for vacation. I will also have to pay for expenses to obtain further documentation to allow my child to travel w/ me. This does not include the days off that I will have from my job or the hotel reservations lost. Since this incident I have contacted the Mexican Consular in Washington D.C. via phone on 4/24/04 and they informed me that the documentation I have IS sufficient for entry into their Country.

Can you provide any suggestions regarding this matter? I would greatly appreciate your response. I feel the airline totally messed up our entire vacation and now they are unwilling to do anything about it."

We recommended she write to the VP of Continental's customer service. If anyone else has any suggestions, please let us know.

Q: "Most of your FAQ's are in regards to international travel. Are there any restrictions or required doc's for single parents traveling with their child out-of state (ex. WA to AK)? Either by car or plane?" - J.

GLOBALBRENDA ANSWER: The reason we focus on documentation for international travel is because there are general or government rules that apply across the board (depending on which country you are traveling to).

If you are traveling within the United States the only restrictions that apply are those that apply to individuals. For example: Do your custody papers state that you cannot leave your home state with your child? Perhaps you are on probation for a previously committed crime and the law states that you cannot leave your home state. (Or may do so only with specific legal permission, such as attending an out-state funeral for a close relative). These are individual legal situations that you would be aware of. Since these restrictions apply only in individual cases and these individuals would be aware of them, there is no need to write about them. If you have no such restrictions placed on you, then you do not need special permission or special papers to travel outside your home state to another state within the U.S..

C.B. asks an interesting question. If you have suggestions, feel free to email us and we will include them in our next newsletter, "I am a 29 years old single mom of a 21 months old girl from Holland. I have been reading in to your site recently, looking for information about possible homesickness of children while travelling. I plan to go traveling through Europe for two months, mostly by train, but I am concerned about whether my daughter may get homesick, and if so, what to do. Also, she might miss her dad , whom she sees quite often. Are there any recourses, which you know about where I can find information on this topic? Or are there experiences of parents you know about?"

Q: N.H. asks, "Hi Brenda, Just stumbled on your great website, I am English but do a lot of travelling in the USA.I', about to travel on my first road trip & wondered if you could spare a minute to give me some advice. I have travelled to Seattle, Chicago & California with my daughter but have never driven any great distance-i always fly I will be driving from Melbourne Fl to Wilkes Barre PA & back again with my 5 year old daughter & plan to take about a week each way including 2 nights in Wilkes Barre & a stop to visit friends in Charlotte on the way back. This will be at the start of August this year. Do you have any tips on cheap lodgings, boredom busters, places to see on a very small budget or can you direct me to somewhere i can find out?"

GLOBALBRENDA ANSWER: I recommend you purchase a couple of Frommers guidebooks. There is probably one for the Southeast US and one for the mid Atlantic states.. You can order them on amazon.com. These are among my favorite guidebooks . They will point you to cheap clean hotels, fun things to do on a budget and even moderate priced restaurants.