Kid Picks: 5 Top Vacation Spots

Way back in September, my editor asked me for a schedule of columns through the end of the year. This sort of advance planning doesn’t really suit me. I can barely plan for tomorrow much less for the next three months. Why should I do something today that I could just as easily do tomorrow? Well, tomorrow has arrived, and three months ago I promised my editor a column on “In Places for Kids.”

But what’s in and what’s out?

I am a travel professional, so I have a wealth of resources at my fingertips: hotel reports, resort and cruise reports, operating reports from my agencies, and consultants’ comments. I also have the ability to survey almost a thousand professional agents on the Tripso Forums. I started to do my homework, but something just wasn’t right.

Although I have been accused many times of acting like a kid, reality says that I am not a kid. What the heck do I know about the “in” destinations for kids, anyhow? So for this week’s column, I deferred to the true experts — Miss Perdue’s third-grade class at Central Elementary School in Edgewater, Maryland. A couple of second- and fourth-graders snuck in, too.

I posed a simple question: “If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?” Now I offer you the Top 5 Destinations for Kids, by Kids:

Number 5: Madagascar (with thanks, no doubt, to Walt Disney Pictures)

“I want to go to Madagascar because it sounds cool and I think it would be very fun to go there. I really want to go there someday. I think the little animals are really funny.” — Madison, Third Grade

“I want to go there because it has lots of plants. Also, because there are a lot of beaches.” — Elizabeth, Third Grade

Number 5: China (yes, it was a tie for fifth place)

“China, because I can learn a new language, meet new people, and eat lots of China foods. I can have lots of new friends.” — Mariah, Third Grade

“I want to go to China because I want to see if they have different money and I want to find out what language they speak. Also, I want to go because I want to see what kind of food they eat.” — Glen, Third Grade

Number 4: Italy (grown-up surveys support this “in” choice)

“Because, at my house we have a lot of things about Italy. My mom’s mom’s cousin has a house there. My parents talk about going a lot. So I think I am going in one or two years. My parents, together, have mostly gone there about 19-25 times!” — Madeline, Third Grade

Number 3: Jamaica (another perennial favorite)

“I want to go to Jamaica because I love tropical places with fruit and warm air. I also want to go to Jamaica because there are lovely beaches and chilly pools. They have fancy hotels too! Jamaica serves fancy food just like Hawaii. In Jamaica, people set up shops and you can buy tropical clothing and jewelry!!!” — Julia, Second Grade

“I would go to Jamaica because it doesn’t have winter and you could always go to the beach. Also, you can play in the sand anytime.” — Kaylin, Third Grade

Number 2: Kenya (adventure travel is on the upswing across the board)

“I would like to go to Kenya because Kenya has beautiful culture and land. Also, Kenya has safaris and I could see all the animals. I also would want to meet the people and learn about them.” — Justin, Fourth Grade

“I would travel to Kenya because there is lots of good animals to hunt.” — David, Fourth Grade

“I would want to go there because we learned a lot about it in Fourth Grade. Also, I have a pen pal there and would like to meet her. The last reason I would like to go to Kenya is because I want to learn more about the culture.” — Hannah, Fourth Grade

Number 1: Hawaii (again, the kids are right on target with the grown-ups)

“I would like to travel to Hawaii because it has nice beaches, pools, and nice people. Also, it has pretty flowers, hotel rooms, and clear blue oceans. That is why I want to go to Hawaii.” — Molly, Third Grade

“I want to go there because my friends live there and it’s hot. Also, because it sounds cool. You can surf and swim.” - Caraline, Third Grade

“I would go there because their hotels are good and I like tropical places. Also, I like seeing the volcanoes and you can go whale watching. It reminds me of the rain forests.” — Michael, Third Grade

“Honolulu, Hawaii, because it is fun. I have never been there before. I think it will be interesting. I think that it is really cool. I would like to learn their language. I want to be like them.” — Griffin, Third Grade

It is interesting that these future world travelers picked destinations that are definitely popular but not heavily promoted. I can’t remember the last time I saw a commercial for Kenya or Italy. I was also impressed by the reasons these kids gave for wanting to see the world and experience other cultures. Unlike some pundits, I do not see our educational system letting us down, and I offer a hearty thanks to Miss Perdue and her principal, Mr. Ferretti, for that.

The other destinations mentioned are equally worthy of a visit, and I want to give some kudos to the children who came up with these as well:

* West Virginia (Anna, Third Grade)

* The Bahamas (Andrew, Third Grade)

* Boston (Brandi, Third Grade)

* Antarctica (Zach, Third Grade-and a dream of mine as well)

* Egypt (Khorey, Third Grade)

* New York (Sarah, Second Grade)

* England (Forrest, Third Grade)

* Australia (Amanda, Third Grade)

* The Amazon Rain Forest (Emma, Fourth Grade)

* New Jersey (Katie, Third Grade)

* Texas (Jessica, Third Grade)

* New Hampshire (Mitchell, Third Grade)

So parents, take note: These 8 and 9-year-olds are putting a lot more thought into travel than I ever did as a kid — and probably even as an adult! And, they are picking their favorite destinations for the right reasons.

From what other experts tell me, Italy will be hot for 2006, and so will Hawaii. Adventure travel is climbing incredibly, too, so think Costa Rica and, yes, Kenya, though probably not Madagascar (sorry kids) unless you are looking for a real adventure.

Thanks, kids, for your time and happy travels to you all.

Feeling Hon Kong's Energy

Hong Kong is probably the most energetic city in the world. It’s got the bright lights of Vegas, the hustle of New York, the swank of Rodeo Drive and the fantasy power of Disney World all rolled into one vibrant city. It is the gateway to China, and was recently returned to China after a long history as a European trading center and British crown colony.

While a lot of Hong Kong’s historical past has been destroyed by unprecedented modernization, the city has not lost its essential character. Crowded, exuberant, busy and relentlessly enterprising, it is a destination to absorb rather than explore. On my first visit to Hong Kong, I found it has a curious effect on Western travelers: The longer you are away, the stronger the call to return.

What to see

The city is divided into two main sections — Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, which is attached to mainland China. Between them lies beautiful Victoria Harbor, one of the busiest harbors in the world.

A trip to Hong Kong is simply not complete without a trip up Victoria Peak, or simply “The Peak,” on Hong Kong Island. Views from the top are nothing less than spectacular and are equally breathtaking day or night. A ride up in a taxi offers an interesting peek into living on Hong Kong, and the century-old Peak Tram is a relaxing way to get back down. While there isn’t much to do up on The Peak, there are a few tourist shops and one or two very decent restaurants.

The Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island is worth a look, as it is home to “Asia’s largest seated outdoor Buddha statue” (not to be confused with any other position or location). After climbing the steps, you’ll have breathtaking views of the mountains climbing from the sea. The Buddha itself is larger than life, and the monastery affords a sharp look at life as a Buddhist monk.

A short drive from the monastery takes you to an old fishing village called Tai O, a great place to see old China in action. While I expected a quaint fishing village, this was a bustling mini-city with small outboard motorboats darting among the houses and stores, which are built on stilts. But aside from some modern conveniences, life here is as it was years ago. There are villagers peddling their wares (usually fish) on the streets, and mothers maintaining homes for their families.

At one time, Hong Kong was one of the best places to go for first-rate merchandise at bargain prices. Unfortunately, West has met East and the bargains are not so great any longer. Still, the emphasis on shopping in Hong Kong is incredible — it is a hobby there. Electronics are still well-priced, but stick to the larger stores as many of the independent shops in Kowloon, especially on Nathan Road, and are run by triads-China’s age-old mafia.

Shopping plazas are everywhere in Hong Kong. Nathan Road in Kowloon, often the first stop for shoppers, offers bargain goods, souvenirs and luxury items. Causeway Bay, on Hong Kong Island, has more upscale brands and foreign imports.

But for a unique shopping experience, you must sample the markets. Be sure to bring your bargaining skills. My son was able to negotiate jade stones for his entire third-grade class in the Jade Market, which is located at the junction of Kansu and Reclamation streets. The market offers loose jade as well as ornately carved sculptures. The Temple Street Night Market kicks into life in the late evening and offers table after table of cheap clothing, pirated CDs and video games, food stalls, and little trinkets. On the south side of Hong Kong Island is Stanley Market. This, the most popular market with tourists, offers all the souvenirs you can handle along with several very good antique shops. Stanley is also a great area to explore; it has several temples, and many good restaurants and pubs.

What to eat

There is no shortage of restaurants in Hong Kong. You’ll find everything from the generic Hard Rock Cafe to Jimmy’s Kitchen, an 80-year-old expatriate favorite in Kowloon. Hong Kong’s biggest tourist trap (and a must-see for the first-time visitor) is the famous floating Jumbo Restaurant. The Chinese themes are overdone, the food is overrated and not terribly authentic, and yet the experience really is worth the all the nonsense.

One of the best restaurants is Felix, which sits on the top floor of the Peninsula Hotel. Expect to pay a lot for a spectacular dinner offering some equally spectacular views of Hong Kong. Make a later reservation so you can take in the beauty of Hong Kong all lit up at night. Or simply hang out at the bar. If you happen to be of the male persuasion, check out the men’s room. Let’s just say I had never experienced a clear urinal with a view before!

For trendy, hip and popular, head to Hong Kong Island and the district called Lan Kwai Fong. The areas called Soho (“South of Hollywood Road”) and Noho (“North of Hollywood Road”) have a trendy mix of restaurants and cafes and are very popular with the expatriate community.

A short stroll, or stumble, from Soho or Noho is Hong Kong’s version of a red light district: Wanchai. The area is filled with nightclubs, strip clubs, pubs and pick-up joints. Many of these, such as Joe Banana’s, still have a dress code; call ahead to ask. And if you have visions of James Bond ordering his martini in the speakeasy called Bottoms Up (it does exist), then you’d better e-mail me for the details — it’s not pretty!

Where to stay

Purists will say that the only place to stay in Hong Kong is the Peninsula Hotel, but I would be inclined to look to the Intercontinental (formerly the Regent), across the street. Perched on the edge of Victoria Harbor overlooking Hong Kong Island, the hotel occupies probably the finest piece of real estate in the city. It also has great dining, a wonderful bar, and a beautiful infinity pool with separate temperature-controlled chambers all overlooking the bustling harbor three stories below.

Some oddities

The Hong Kong Science Museum on Kowloon is one of the best science museums I have ever seen. It covers everything from mathematics and meteorology to food science and occupational safety. It also has a huge and interesting section on sexuality, though I found it odd that there was not a single mention of AIDS in the exhibit.

When navigating around Hong Kong, you need to watch your step. Not only does the country not require ramps for accessibility, Buddhists consider them bad luck. They believe bad spirits cannot climb steps but they can come up a ramp, so every building will have some small step at the entrances (go ahead, check — I dare you to find one that doesn’t).

You may be in a James Bond mood but, sadly, there aren’t a lot of rickshaws around to shuttle you across town. As a matter of fact, there are only four and they are tourist attractions at the Star Ferry dock on Hong Kong Island — but again, worth the price for the experience.

There are plenty of side trips and sightseeing tours to take — too many to mention, but talk to your hotel’s concierge; he will steer you to something interesting. Pay a few extra bucks and see if the hotel can take you to or from the airport — I did and was greeted by a vintage Rolls Royce.

Finally, since the gents got their men’s room tip, I’ll offer the same to the ladies: Public restrooms for women in Hong Kong apparently have urinal-like devices in the floors and not a lot of privacy. While waiting for a friend to emerge, I watched many Westerners coming out with the same confused look on their faces!

If you have some time and are looking for a memorable trip, head to Hong Kong. The flight is a bit long, but the memories will have you coming back for more.

For more information, check out the Web site of the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

Galloping Grandparents

Something has been creeping over the travel industry in the last three years. Like a fog rolling over the moors of England, it goes unnoticed until you are in its midst. Rising prices? Nope. Falling prices? Nope. The next time you are on a trip, check out the crowd and you’ll see what I mean. While the traditional family still travels together, now they’re bringing Grandmom and Grandpop — or are Grandmom and Grandpop bringing the family?

Intergenerational travel has become a huge market for the travel industry as the baby boomers age. Older travelers are no longer content to take bus tours with the blue-haired crowd or hire dancing companions on upscale cruises. They want to explore new destinations, to have active vacations, to experience some adventure — and they want to bring the extended family.

Grandtravel, a Washington, D.C., travel supplier, saw the future 20 years ago, and they’ve been organizing trips for grandparents and grandchildren ever since. Founder Helena Koenig says that today’s seniors are more interested in leaving a legacy than an inheritance.

“Grandparents want to make their money talk,” Koenig says. “They want their grandchildren to inherit memories. What good does money do once you are gone? But travel — travel is unforgettable.”

The numbers bear her out. According to the Travel Industry Association of America (TIA), a full 30 percent of traveling grannies have taken at least one trip with a grandchild. Even more startling (at least to me) was a study by industry consultants Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown & Russell that showed almost 60 percent of kids ages 6-17 would really like to vacation with their grandparents.

While Grandtravel is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience with tours to destinations like Kenya, Greece and Russia, the experience does not come cheap. Most tours (which typically include meals and the most deluxe of accommodations) run from $5,000 per person. However, if you are looking for an amazing experience — look no farther.

Should your budget be slightly (or considerably) smaller, there are plenty of other options. Elderhostel, which has long provided outstanding educational travel experiences for seniors 55 and older, now offers many intergenerational tours to domestic and international locations through its Elderhostel Intergenerational Programs. The programs are designed to allow adults (grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, etc.) to participate in a learning experience with their younger relatives and extended families. As Elderhostel puts it, “Sharing new ideas, challenges, and experiences is rewarding in every season of life.”

The Grandtravel and Elderhostel programs are specially designed for intergenerational sets of clients, but don’t write off more traditional cruises and escorted tours. They can work for intergenerational families, as well. Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, now offers family suites with two or more bedrooms, a spacious balcony and plenty of room to accommodate everyone’s privacy. And Tauck World Discovery, a well-respected escorted-tour operator, has a spectacular line of 11 intergenerational tours called Tauck Bridges, offering such destinations as Europe, the Galapagos, Alaska, Hawaii and the jungles of Costa Rica.

There is a world out there to explore, and today’s seniors are ready to explore it — alone, and with their families. Talk to any financial analyst and you’ll find that we are in the midst of the largest generational transfer of wealth in history. There is more expendable income today than ever before, and travel is one of the top lures for that money.

Money plus time will always equal an unforgettable travel experience. So, Grandpa, go ahead, put down that deposit on the retirement community, but don’t make the first payment — not yet!