Family Travel Ideas for Summer 2006.

The UK’s Times Online has some great travel ideas for this summer; there is one section specifically focused on families but many of the others could also work for your kids.  The articles understandably focus mostly on destinations in Europe, but there are some other places featured as well.

If that’s not enough for your planning, the Times also lists their pick of the 100 best travel Web sites, again with a Euro-centric view but that helps to unearth sites that North Americans might miss.  Some other great family travel links are on the Transitions Abroad Web site.

Closer to the USA, the Chicago Tribune has a run-down on activities at our national parks. If you’re more metro, the Trib also has general must-see tips for “8 Great American Cities” plus an overview of fun stuff for kids in “6 Cities Provide Family Fun.”

If you’re flying, though, you may want to note the article in USA Today about a summer “baggage handling meltdown” because of over-crowded skies and security personnel shortages.  For gosh sakes, try to pack light and always carry basic toiletries like toothbrushes and maybe one change of clothes in your carry-on, in case that checked suitcase doesn’t arrive when you do.