This year, we simply wanted to slow down. After several intense months at the office, the idea of planning a trip full of travel and adventure didn't really appeal to us. What we really wanted was to relax, soak up the sun and spend some stress-free time with our family.
Colombia is still a very affordable destination for travel in South America. Flights are often very economical, making it an excellent option for families or travelers who want to enjoy a great adventure without breaking the bank. Despite certain preconceived ideas, the country is much safer than you might think.
As spring break approached that year, we knew one thing for sure: we weren't going south. No all-inclusives, no crowded beaches, no all-you-can-eat buffets. We wanted something else - but what exactly, we didn't yet know.
Ecuador is one of South America's best-kept secrets. Small in size but immense in diversity, this country the size of the UK concentrates in a few hours' drive ecosystems that other entire continents can't manage. For families who want to experience everything without spending weeks in transit, Ecuador is a revelation.
When you travel to California with young children, it's tempting to want to see everything - San Francisco, the national parks, Highway 1, Las Vegas... But traveling with toddlers is a fast learning curve: fewer stops means more fun.
A 10-day trip to Costa Rica is often considered an excellent introduction to Central America, especially for families. The country is renowned for its stability, security and warm welcome, making it one of the region's most reassuring destinations for a first trip. The tourist infrastructure is well developed and relatively easy to get around.