Parent’s Guide To Traveling With Kids:

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2025

If you’ve ever tried planning a trip with friends or family, you’ve probably asked the same thing: Do we even have enough people for this to count as a group? Or maybe the opposite: can we just make our own plan instead of sticking to theirs? Most companies draw the line somewhere around 8–10 people. That’s the usual cutoff for a group booking. Still, if you’ve got fewer folks, don’t stress.  Many operators will let you set up a custom plan—though, yep, it usually costs extra. That’s just the baseline, though. Everything shifts depending on what kind of trip you’re eyeing, where you’re headed, and even when you go. Those details can totally change the rules. So, if you are also wondering how custom itineraries help groups to plan for the perfect getaway, you are at the right place. In this blog, I am going to delve into the various aspects of custom itineraries for different group sizes. Looking into how they help and how to negotiate them. So, keep reading to know more! What Are Custom Itineraries? Unlike normal or fixed itineraries, custom itineraries refer to personalized travel plans that include a meticulously designed guide for trips. By covering how to travel, where to stay, and what to do, they provide the perfect tour guide. In addition to this, they consider the budget for the trip. So, the guide covers all the tour spots that can be managed within the budget range, which prevents overspending or going beyond the budget. Moreover, they are not generic and do not fit all. That is, based on your specific needs and demands, the itinerary is created with recommended activities, tickets, accommodation options, and more. So, it provides a completely tailored trip guide with detailed planning that meets your requirements. How Do Custom Itineraries Help Group Trip Planning? Generally, travel agents use custom itineraries while planning group trips for parties that do not fall within the size limits. So, they collect the necessary details from the group. Focusing on their budget, trip demands, accommodation needs, and activity plans. Moreover, they use the details to create a perfect group trip plan. Also, they recommend certain activities, trip destinations, and a comprehensive guide for the trip. In addition to this, solo travellers also use custom itineraries for travelling to their favorite places with their preferences. So, based on their destination plans and staycation ideas, they create the custom itineraries. Also, this helps in making the trip memorable and enjoyable without indulging in unnecessary activities, just because it is mentioned in the itinerary. How Do Group Size Requirements Vary By Trip Type? Not every trip plays by the same numbers. Adventure stuff—like safaris or hikes—tends to keep it small.  Sometimes just 4–6 people, which makes sense when you think about logistics (and honestly, it feels better that way). But if you’re talking about big bus tours or a cruise excursion, that number jumps. Think 15–20 people minimum just to make the math work out. Cultural things, like a city walking tour or even a cooking class, usually land in the middle. Around 6–8 people keep it personal but still cover costs. What Seasons Affect Group Size Requirements? Season matters—a lot. In busy tourist months, operators are usually chill because they can mash smaller groups together and still hit their targets.  Off-season? Totally different. They might stick to the rules harder or even raise the minimum just to cover expenses. There’s a silver lining, though. During shoulder seasons, many companies bend the rules a bit to pull in more bookings.  If you can travel, then you’ll probably find more flexibility (and better prices, too). What Hidden Costs Should You Consider With Custom Groups? Custom sounds amazing, right? But here’s the catch: it’s rarely just the base price. Extra fees sneak in. Private guide? Extra.  Special access after hours? Extra. Even behind-the-scenes admin costs for coordinating all the moving parts—yep, also extra. So, with the custom planning for the trips, there are always hidden costs associated with every activity and tour plan. Transport can be tricky too. Smaller groups split costs across fewer people, so per-person prices climb fast. And mid-sized groups?  They’re stuck in that awkward middle—too many for a small van but not enough to fill a full coach. In those cases, a van rental for 15 passengers is often the sweet spot. Oh, and some places add “exclusivity” charges if you want the space or service all to yourself. Always, always ask for a breakdown before you lock anything in. What Options Exist For Groups That Don't Meet Minimums? Didn’t hit the magic number? No big deal. A few workarounds exist. You could pay a small-group supplement (basically a surcharge for being fewer people).  Or, an easier option, join another group that’s already booked and running. Another route: check if the company offers “guaranteed departures.” That means the trip happens no matter what.  Downside is, you won’t usually get custom tweaks—it’s more of a fixed plan. But hey, at least you know the trip won’t get canceled. How Can You Negotiate Custom Itineraries? If you’re leaning toward a custom trip, here’s the trick: go in with a clear list of what really matters and what you can bend on. Operators are way more open to changes when you’re flexible. List out your must-haves (non-negotiable stuff) and your nice-to-haves (things you’d love but could swap).  Be ready to compromise on timing, hotels, or smaller activities. That balance—firm on priorities but loose on details—usually gets you the best outcome. Custom Itineraries For Group Trips So, where does that leave you? Well, step one is simple: jot down a wish list. Split it into “musts” and “maybes.”  When you bring that to an operator, you’ll not only save time but also make it easier for them to build something that actually works.  They see what’s important, and you still give them room to figure out the logistics. That’s how you get a trip that feels like yours without breaking all their rules. Read Also: Planning To Travel The World? How To Pack Up Your Life So It’s Ready For You When You Get Back Are You Planning A Trip To Osaka? This Is Your Quintessential Guide A Step By Step Guide On Planning A Luxury Travel Vacation

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 13, 2024

The majority of people from the Pacific Northwest will tell you that the outside world simply does not understand them. Many outsiders have the impression that Washington is a rainy city that lives off lattes, complete with techies and tree huggers. Yes, it has all of that, but the state's vast, unmatched wilderness, difficult to find anywhere else, is what really defines it. To really understand Washington national parks, you need to go beyond the Seattle city limits. Its famous national and state parks will make you speechless. Each presents an entirely distinct interpretation of the 18th largest state in the union. The three national parks in Washington are so large and varied that residents return year after year to explore more areas. Additionally, the more than 100 state parks are comparable, with lesser-known areas offering deserted campsites and uncrowded trails. In addition, there are deep fjords, moss-draped archipelagos for island hopping, snowy volcanic peaks, and canyons carved by Ice Age glaciers. There are also temperate rainforest trails, sea stacks off misty shores, and an abundance of waterfalls. To put it simply, you may want to consider a yearly park pass. National Parks In Washington Washington State National Parks are so much more than what they get credit for. Are you curious about what secrets Washington is hiding? We are listing the national parks in Washington state below. Make sure to put them on your to-do list. You will be surprised by the stuff you had left previously undiscovered in Washington. Moran State Park There are few places in the Pacific Northwest that compare to the delightfully remote Moran State Park. It is a haven for wild island getaways. Being the most populous island in the San Juan archipelago, Orcas Island has dense forests. It is a popular outdoor recreation destination for island hoppers. It offers multiple freshwater lakes for swimming and boating. The Washington State Ferries are the only way to get here; they connect to Seattle, San Juan, and other nearby launch points. If you're up for exercise, then consider hiking or biking up Mount Constitution, the highest point on the islands. Bring boots for the 38 miles of trails within the park. In order to see the interpretive center and enjoy the views, you can also drive up to the summit. Cape Disappointment State Park It's hard to estimate how many dad jokes went like, "Well, it's definitely not a disappointment," as they entered Cape Disappointment State Park. And it's not. The park, located in the southwestern region of Washington, boasts dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the powerful Columbia River. It also has moody beaches and windswept sea cliffs. You can tour decommissioned installations like Gun Battery Harvey Allen and the remnants of Fort Canby. It was once a strategically significant military site. The park's eight miles of trails lead to its two operational lighthouses, Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and North Head Lighthouse. They are arguably the most photographed sights in the area. Palouse Falls Palouse Falls was Washington's official state waterfall in 2014 after state legislators approved a bill from local students. The region is well-known for its abundance of waterfalls. The fall's special scenic location demonstrates why it was given that recognition. This 200-foot waterfall in the Palouse River Canyon cascades down basalt cliffs. It is one of the last remnants of the Ice Age floods. It should come as no surprise that this little state park is all about admiring the scenery. The park has three official vantage points. A short 0.1-mile ADA-accessible walk leads to one of the viewpoints. Dry Falls State Park The moss-covered forests west of the Cascade Range appear vastly different from the dry canyon-like settings of Sun Lakes–Dry Falls State Park. The park's striking cliffs are the result of the melting of the Ice Age. It created the bleak landscape of eastern Washington through ancient floods. It is a single stop on the multi-state National Geologic Trail: Ice Age Floods. The 3.5-mile precipice known as Dry Falls, which was formerly home to a massive waterfall, is the park's most striking feature. As the name suggests, the falls dried up long ago, but water is still a major attraction here. Boating, swimming, and water skiing are all popular in shimmering lakes. During the summer, the only thing breaking up the endless blue sky is the cliffs. Larrabee State Park Bellingham's hippies and college students frequently head toward Larrabee State Park when they want to go hiking. This is the first Washington State Park, established in 1915, and it protects a large portion of the Chuckanut Mountains' coastline. Moderate hikes to Clayton Beach's pebbled shores and Fragrance Lake, one of the park's many picturesque lakes, are popular routes. Mountain biking is another popular activity in the area, and Larrabee offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. It includes steeper technical slopes that are best left to the pros. Of the many national parks in Washington, Larrabee will offer the most fun-filled experience. Lime Kiln Point State Park The San Juan archipelago is well-known for the year-round orca whale population that calls these chilly waters home. Visit Lime Kiln Point. The Washington State Parks's team likes to call it one of the world's top locations for whale watching, to witness them in action. And they’re not wrong. For views of the orcas and other whale species, which are most commonly spotted from May through September, climb the elegant 1919 lighthouse. This includes porpoises and pods of gray, humpback, and minke whales. Located on a rocky outcropping on San Juan Island's western shore, this small day-use park has a seasonal interpretive center that is usually open from late spring to summer. Deception Pass State Park This state park in Washington receives the highest number of visitors for two main reasons. The first is the range of outdoor activities it offers close to Seattle. It is a little over an hour’s drive if the traffic is not too heavy. The second is the 360-degree view that can be obtained from the two-span arched Deception Pass Bridge. It towers over the channel, which is a more romantic and compelling reason to visit. Deception Pass State Park encompasses two adjacent islands, Fidalgo and Whidbey. They are popular both for camping and day-use marine adventures. Three freshwater lakes and the surrounding saltwater are accessible from five boat launches. Visit this place to kayak around the coves of the islands, explore their rocky shorelines, and trek through the old-growth forests on a 38-mile network of trails. Beacon Rock State Park On the north bank of the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, Washington offers a more serene and visually appealing experience than Oregon. It is home to a majority of the Gorge's well-known as well as congested attractions. The overlooked Beacon Rock State Park offers expansive, slightly less crowded views of the national scenic area. Although Oregonians take great pride in their state, even they will admit that Beacon Rock is one of the best day hikes you can do. Within an hour's drive of the City of Roses. Enjoy expansive views of the gorge after ascending the basalt monolith via a mile of winding switchbacks and staircases. Locals cringe at this pun, but the views from the top are, well, gorgeous. If you are looking for national parks in Oregon and Washington, then this is your cue. Olympic Park If you can only spend time in one Washington park. Situated in the northwest, then choose Olympic Park. Corner of the state on the Olympic Peninsula, this vast wilderness has glacier-capped mountains, mossy rain forests, and tide pools. Rarely will any other of the national parks in Washington match up to the beauty of the Olympic. Except for Hawaii, the Olympic Peninsula gets more rainfall than all other location in the United States. It protrudes into the Pacific and is divided from the mainland by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound. This is the most glaciated US landscape outside of Alaska, with over 250 glaciers fed by the snowfall that occurs high in the 2,000-meter-plus Olympic mountains. The vast ice fields feed several significant rivers, which then meander towards the Pacific through temperate rainforests. Travelers can follow the Bogachiel River inland to the Hoh rainforest from its Pacific outlet at La Push to see the highlights. The following day, go in a northeastern direction and ascend to Hurricane Ridge, which offers a stunning vista of the Olympic mountain range. Those with extra time will want to soak in the Sol Duc hot springs and take a scenic stroll to Marymere Falls. Lake Crescent and Sol Duc offer lodging and the park is home to many campgrounds. Wrapping Up Yoking in the center of the Pacific Northwest, Washington State is famous for its breathtaking scenery and varied ecosystems. Locals and visitors alike have a variety of outdoor activities to choose from, ranging from a relaxing ferry ride to the iconic San Juan Islands to a strenuous hike to the Cascade Range peaks. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about national parks in Washington, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: 7 Fun Things To Do In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit Best 10 National Parks In New Mexico To Visit

BY  Abdul Aziz Jul 18, 2023

Nestled deep in the heart of the Great Smokies, Pigeon Forge attracts travelers with its breathtaking expanse and abundant recreation. Named after the Little Pigeon River, this vibrant mountain town is the home of Appalachian crafts, folklore, and heritage. This multifaceted town delights serenity seekers with its old-fashioned and sleepy countryside charm and the tranquility of the wilderness. Moreover, thrill seekers can embark on rip-roaring alpine adventures, nature trails, amusement parks, and outdoor recreation spots. Most importantly, this family-friendly destination offers a plethora of live entertainment venues and a culturally rich food scene brimming with variety. Planning the perfect Pigeon Forge vacation demands extensive research to set priorities and divide your time between must-have experiences. The Smoky Mountains region is a popular destination attracting scores of tourists year-round. Therefore, we advise planning your vacation in early spring or late fall to escape the crowds and enjoy the town’s old-world charm. Read on to explore our detailed guide to planning an unforgettable Pigeon Forge vacation. Finding An Ideally Located Home Base Mountain towns like Pigeon Forge serve as alpine home bases to explore the Great Smokies and hike through the trail networks. In other words, the town’s privileged location allows vacationers to visit innumerable local and regional attractions without being overwhelmed by distance. For instance, travelers can easily access the Smoky Mountains National Park, drive to Dollywood, or dine in Sevierville. Finding an ideally located accommodation is of the utmost significance to pack up your itinerary with local attractions and day trips. Pigeon Forge offers an impressive lineup of luxurious vacation rentals situated at the foothills of the verdant rolling hills. Families with children will enjoy the independence of renting 2 bedroom cabins in Pigeon Forge, equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. Travelers commonly undermine the impact of a lavishly appointed accommodation until exposed to bug-riddled bedding, pest infestation, and badly-cooked breakfast. A tastefully appointed cabin will give you a home away from home, maximizing comfort and relaxation with modern amenities. Most cabins feature hot tubs, fully-functional kitchens, and outdoor areas with lounging furniture, firepits, and BBQ equipment. A comfortable home base will help you unwind and recharge before setting out for the day’s adventure. Besides, who wants to miss the joy of waking up to a majestic view of the sun rising atop the rolling hills? Connect With Mother Nature In The Great Smokies The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Pigeon Forge’s most popular attraction, beckoning adventures, and nature lovers to explore its breathtaking expanse. The park is home to over 800 miles of nature trails, opening up a spectacular network of rewarding hikes. The Great Smokies are home to hidden caves and coves, cascading waterfalls, fragrant wildflower meadows, and synchronized fireflies. Hiking through the park allows travelers to connect with Mother Nature while discovering historical Appalachian remnants and settlements. Passionate hikers would want to cover the park’s iconic section of the legendary Appalachian Trail – a trek brimming with beauty and intrigue. The region offers a multitude of beginner and child-friendly hikes that lead you through serene wooded sections, meadows, and waterfalls. The Porters Creek Trail and Laurel Falls Trail are the most popular hikes in the park. Both trails are easy and beginner-friendly, covering historic settlements, waterfalls, and streams. If you love cooling off in the sun after a hike, we strongly suggest visiting the 80-foot-tall Laurel Falls. The Grotto Falls trail is another soul-satisfying route passing through a hemlock forest with a child-friendly beaten path. Seasoned hikers can embark on the Ramsey Cascades Trail to witness the park’s tallest waterfall and an enchanting cove hardwood forest. Feast On Traditional Tennessee Cuisine One can hardly visit Pigeon Forge without enjoying the comforting flavors of a traditional Tennessee feast. The local cuisine focuses on comfort foods that melt in your mouth with a burst of herbs, spices, and well-seared meat. Pigeon Forge offers a diverse variety of multicultural cuisine, with innumerable high-rated restaurants specializing in local delicacies. You can delight your taste buds with various classic Southern delicacies, like rainbow trout and fried chicken with fluffy biscuits. Stone-ground cornmeal is a hearty treat that elevates every meal after slathering it with locally farmed wildflower honey. Local restaurants offer a multitude of generational recipes passed down by grandmothers and preserved with exceptional craft. For instance, the local homemade maple syrup is mind-blowing, and homemade desserts like fudge and taffy are decadent treats. Vacationers with a sweet tooth must try the locally grown jellies, fruit preserves, and traditional Tennessee-style apple dumplings. Tennessee meals fill up the belly with the magical warmth of aromatic gravies paired with fluffy biscuits and hand-churned butter. Amusement Parks And Sightseeing Pigeon Forge is brimming with indoor and outdoor attractions, including art galleries, museums, amusement parks, and live entertainment venues. The Adventure Park at Five Oaks combines the magnificent beauty of the Smokies with adrenalin-raising rides that will test your mettle. Children adore the action-packed sequences at the Smoky Mountain Escape Games while Xtreme Racing Center beckons go-karting enthusiasts. Parents eager to combine fun with interactive learning experiences will find Pigeon Forge brimming with incredible venues. For instance, Ripley’s Aquarium allows visitors to connect with sea creatures in their natural habitats and learn from immersive exhibits. Crime fanatics wouldn’t want to miss out on Alcatraz East, a one-of-its-kind attraction designed into a 19th-century prison. Alcatraz is a crime museum featuring enthralling displays and exhibits on America’s iconic criminals, including Al Capone and John Dillinger. Read Also: Six Things To Do If You’re In Pigeon Forge Final Thoughts There’s much to do and discover in Pigeon Forge, and this adventurous destination encourages travelers to step outside their comfort zones. The region is ideal for whitewater rafting, and vacationers can find state-of-the-art facilities and training centers along the Pigeon River. If rafting seems intimidating, embark on a thrilling tubbing adventure at the Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park. We strongly urge travelers to hop aboard the Pigeon Forge trolly to explore the town and a few sections of Sevierville. Operational since 1986, these trolleys are a convenient and memorable way to discover local attractions and connect with like-minded travelers. Read Also: Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers 8 Reasons To Spend Your Spring Vacation In Pigeon Forge Top Tips For A Terrific Vacation