We’ve gathered some tips that will assist in making your next vacation stay fabulous.

1. Price – Decide on what you are comfortable paying each night for your accommodation. You must consider star ratings, type of lodging, amenities and proximity to your point of interest.

2. Type of lodging: What are you looking for – hotel (room type), bed-in-breakfast, chalet?

3. Location – Is it close to your place of interest? Do you mind a short walk? Do you mind taking a taxi or public transportation?

4. Make a list of amenities that are important for your needs – fitness centre, swimming pool, kitchen etc.

5. Family Friendly – Do you require child minding services?

6. Luxury: Do you want luxurious accommodations or the basics?

7. Ambiance: Do you want local inspired or standard hotel?

8. Loyalty Programs: Are you looking for one that offers loyalty programs or perks such as discounts for local shopping establishments, car rental or restaurants?

1. Pack wisely
The more you haul, the more fuel you will burn, so only take what you will actually use during your vacation. Before embarking on your trip, clean out your car and if in doubt, take it out.

2. Factor in delays
Expect the unexpected when planning departure and arrival times. Traffic, construction, road closures and detours can always pop-up to and from your destination.

3. Consider entertainment
Activities and games for the kids will help prevent backseat meltdowns, helping to keep your concentration on the road ahead. A deck of cards, portable DVD players and picture books are great ways to keep passengers distracted for hours.

4. Take care of your body
Stop and stretch every two or three hours to prevent muscle and back injuries. Stretching improves blood circulation, posture and relaxed muscles. For therapy while driving, try specialized cushions. ObusForme, for example, has two popular lines: the Personalized-Comfort Drivers Seat, which can be adjusted for a custom fit while providing heat and massaging vibrations; and the Memory Foam Travel Pillow to keep the passenger comfortable. More information at: www.obsuforme.com.

5. Pack an emergency road kit
To help ensure small mishaps on the road don’t become big dramas, consider packing jumper cables, a fuel container, nightlight, car games, water, snacks, and extra cash.

www.newscanada.com

So how about spending the week at Blue Mountain? That means you skip the long lineups at the airport and the costly travel expenses. And while skiing is always a family favourite, it isn’t the only thing you can do at ‘Blue’, especially with the snow fading. In fact, there are so many great things to do during the March Break that even if it does start snowing, you may not find time to hit the slopes.

If you want to arrange for some formal activities for your kids during the day, there are several organized kids camps in the area. Your kids can have fun and max out their energy while you get to enjoy some grown-up time. After a wonderful afternoon comes to an end, it will be a perfect time to reunite with the whole family for a fun-filled gathering! Whatever the case, be sure to keep your kids entertained.


For Your Kid

Your kids will have a great time outdoors during the March Break Kids’ Camp with Free Spirit Tours. Kids will be taken on adventurous activities like dog sledding, winter caving, geocaching, and developing important winter survival skills. There are two camps available for the March Break: March 14-18 and March 21-25.

For a dose of ancient culture, sign your kids up for Ancient Worlds – Hands On History at Grey Roots museum in Owen Sound. Take a step into the past and explore the ancient civilizations of Rome, Greece, Maya, India and China. Activities will include Olympic games, an ancient Chinese festival and learning to write in Mayan hieroglyphics. When your kids return to school, make sure you advise them to wow their classmates on the impressive knowledge.


For the Family

If you don’t want to enroll your kids in a formal program, look at the Grey Roots March Break Family Activities. A few activities include family-friendly movies at 2 p.m. and scavenger hunts.

The Leonard E. Shore Memorial Library in Thornbury has a number of teen events for March Break. Don’t think that a library is boring. There’s a pizza and skating party from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, March 12^th that costs only $2. For the gamers, try the Wii Rock Band Tournament on Thursday, March 17^th from 6 to 8 p.m.

If your winter mood still hasn’t shaken off yet, Higlands Nordic just south of Collingwood has special rates for cross country skiing, snow shoeing and tobogganing during the March Break (March 14 to 20^th). You can rent skis and snowshoes or pack your own.

If you’ve been physically active all week and need to give your body a rest, enjoy an afternoon with your kids watching a dramatic presentation of the children’s classic: The Velveteen Rabbit. Presented by the Meaford Hall on March 17^th at 2 pm, tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children.

For a family of hockey enthusiasts, take in an OHL hockey game with the Owen Sound Attack. Tickets are much cheaper and easier to get than Leafs tickets. Plus, you’ll be closer to the action! The Attack are playing the Plymouth Whalers on Wednesday, March 16 and the London Knights on both March 12 and 19^th.  Make sure to get your tickets in advance!

If you’re aching for some original tunes or wanting to show off your musical talent, the Downtown Bookstore in Owen Sound, along with the sponsoring Georgian Folk Society, is presenting SONGWRITER’S CIRCLE with Trevor MacKenzie on March 14^th. From 7:30pm to 9:30pm, songwriters and musicians of all levels are invited to come and try out their original songs. Here’s another perk: admission is free.

Whether you’re looking for a fun and adventurous time, a relaxing break or a mixture of both, Blue Mountain Collingwood has got you covered for an amazing trip away from home, school and work!

For music lovers, try this concert series. Their monthly concerts on a Thursday evening are only $15 in advance or $20 at the door; an inexpensive evening out. Tickets available from: BMFA Centre, 163 Hurontario Street, 705-445-3430; Crow’s Nest, 239 Hurontario Street, 705-445-4900; Gabriele Photography, 133 Hurontario Street, 705-445-9030. Visit www.collingwoodjazz.ca for dates and times.


New Bulbs for Fall
If you`re a gardener and want to learn more about planting fall bulbs, attend this free information session at the Blue Mountain Public Library on Thursday March 24, 2011 at 7pm. You’ll learn some “how to” tips, pest control ideas, and advice about colour. Some potted bulbs will also be available for sale. Since this is a free event, you’ll need to call in advance – 519 599 3681 – to reserve your spot.



Spring Rocks Concert Series
What’s better than free music? The Village at Blue is hosting a March Break Spring Rocks Concert Series. Running from March 14^th to 17^th daily in the Village Events plaza, make sure you get a great view by coming early!

March 14 – The Midway State
March 15 – Bedouin Soundclash
March 16 – Stereos
March 17 – Ill Scarlett

Call 705-445-0231 x6205 for more information.


2011 Discoveries Showcase

Continuing on the free theme is this festival presented by the Georgian Folk Society. Summerfolk is a major music festival held each August in Owen Sound. Each spring, the Georgian Folk Society gives young musicians (under 21) a chance to audition for a spot at the festival. This year, the 2011 Discoveries Showcase will be held on Saturday, March 26^th at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Arena in Owen Sound. Festivities start at 1 p.m, with 36 musicians slated to perform. Admission is free (donations are accepted) and you`ll get a chance to see some of the best young musicians from the area!


21st Annual Thornbury Winter Antique Show

Antique lovers won’t want to miss this show at the Beaver Valley Community Centre in Thornbury on March 12^th and 13^th. You’ll see antiques dealers from across Ontario with pottery and porcelain items, pressed glass, depression glass, silver, antique jewellery, furniture, Persian rugs and art deco artifacts. Admission is only $5 (kids under 12 are free)


Shipwrecks of Georgian Bay

The Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum has this attraction running until April 1^st.  This exhibit documents the shipwrecks of Georgian Bay as well as paying tribute to those who lost their lives and to those who survived. In addition the lifesaving equipment used in the past and information about the vessels that were lost will be on display. Admission is only $5. Visit www.marinerail.com for hours.


Billy Bishop Museum

While you’re in Owen Sound, head on over! In addition to learning about Canada`s most famous war hero, the museum has added an new exhibit: Women in History: They held the homefront…This exhibit highlights the role of women in the war, both at home and in the military. Admission is only $5.

The South Grey Museum

Located in Flesherton, this museum will feature Passage to Freedom: Secrets of the Underground Railroad until March 12^th. This powerful exhibit in commemoration of Black History Month tells the story of slave escape routes known as the Underground Railroad. Admission is only $2.

The History of Hurricane Hazel

For a blast to the past, learn how the most famous hurricane in Canada has changed the way we look at our natural resources and how we live. This lecture series will be presented by the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre in Southampton on Saturday, March 12, 2011. Admission is $10.


Eddie Bush Memorial Arena

Finally, for a more active outing, put on your gear for some Sunday afternoon skating at this community arena in Collingwood. Admission is only $4 for adults and $3 for those under 16!

With the winter and unbearable frostiness fading away slowly, take advantage of your vacation at Blue Mountain and plan your fun-filled adventure!

Outdoor Activities

If your non-skier is the outdoors type, there are various alternatives to consider. You can always try snowshoeing or go skating at the Collingwood Central Park Outdoor Rink (705-444-2500). If that isn’t adventurous enough, you could take snowmobile lessons together at Ride On Rentals. For the ultimate voyage, they may like to try winter caving with Free Spirit Tours in Collingwood.

Warm, Cozy & Dry

For someone who prefers to stay warm and dry, there are many art galleries and museums in the area. The Lost Dog Studio features the talented work of Ana Brown as well as other local artists – be sure to check for special events! The Collingwood Public Library also has a gallery with new exhibitions monthly. Finally, for an art-lover, Art Spark is a creative hands-on arts studio in Collingwood with regular workshops, including numerous half-day events.

Out-of-Town

Getting out of Collingwood for the day also may not be a bad idea. The Meaford Hall has a variety of events including single day music concerts, theatre performances and multi-day exhibitions. The Tom Thomson Art Gallery in Owen Sound has work by the iconic Canadian artist on permanent display as well as a revolving program of contemporary and historical exhibitions, lectures, forums, films, concerts and workshops. Also in Owen Sound is Gallery de Boer – Fine Art & Jazz, featuring a variety of art exhibitions from local, Canadian and international artists.

If activities just don’t fit the tastes of your guest(s) that day, try pampering them instead at Le Scandinave Spa. It’s hard to go wrong with a full day of pure relaxation. Leisure is at its prime as this spa is packed with:

• a Norwegian steam room
• a Finnish sauna
• Nordic and thermal waterfalls
• hot baths and cold plunges
• solarium & relaxation areas
• outdoor fireplaces

So don’t sweat it if your guest is unwilling to get up the mountain. There are plenty of activities that you and your guest can engage in without the dissatisfaction of anyone. Hope you have a great vacation at Blue Mountain!

Here are 10 tips to saving money on your winter vacation at Blue Mountain.

1. Avoid busy dates such as Christmas, Family Day and March breaks. Those are prime travel times and prices often reflect that.
2. Travel mid-week. At Blue Mountain, weekends may be busy but mid-week is often less crowded. Therefore rates for hotel, skiing and events are often cheaper. An added bonus: the slopes and other venues will be less packed.
3. Avoid peak times. Many ski resorts offer a reduced rate for evening only lift tickets. Take advantage of them.
4. Practice cross-training. Mix-up your day-to-day vacation plans with different activities offered. With no lift-tickets to buy, your non-skiing days will cost a fraction of what your skiing days cost.



5. If you don’t already own ski equipment, rent rather than buy. If you decide you really love skiing and plan to do it often, wait until the end-of-season sales or look for some good used equipment.
6. Book a chalet or room with a kitchen. Cooking yourself will save you huge amounts of money.
7. Look for multi-day lift tickets or family rates. If you plan to ski or snowboard often during the season, get your seasons pass during early bird for a substantially cheaper price.
8. Check your favourite locations for sales and special deals. They may have cheaper rates on certain dates, for special events or as part of a special promotion.  The biggest deals come out near the end of the season.
9. Many resorts offer group rates. Gather a group of friends and plan a mass get-away. What you save on the lift-tickets could pay for the après ski drinks.
10. Ask about special discounts for seniors, kids, CAA members, and on-line only deals. It doesn’t hurt to ask and you may find a way to save some money.

Here’s a winter packing checklist that will ensure you have everything you need. All you have to do is fit everything into your suitcase and you’re ready for your Blue Mountain winter vacation.

Clothing

Bring extra of any outdoor items in case they get wet. That way you can change and get right back outside.

• Underwear, long underwear, socks and bras – enough for each day you`ll be at Blue Mountain, unless you plan to do laundry.
• Pajamas & slippers
• Sweaters and other tops
• Pants
• Hat, scarf, mitts/gloves
• Ski pants, parka
• Swimsuit for indoor pool or hot tub
• A dressy outfit for dining out (more than one if you’ll be dining out frequently). Don’t forget shoes.

Skiing/Snowboarding Equipment

Make sure you pack all the equipment for each person. You don’t want anyone missing a ski pole.

• Ski or snowboard boots
• Skis and/or snowboard
• Poles
• Helmet and skullcap
• Ski gloves & Glove inserts
• Goggles

Toiletries

Visit a drug store and get travel sized versions of everything. It saves space and if you leave it behind you won’t mind because it’s only a small amount.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Soap
• Hair brush, mousse, gel or other hair products, hair clips, etc.
• Hair dryer, curling iron
• Razor, shaving cream
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Makeup and moisturizer
• Chapstick

Medications

If you or anyone in your family is taking prescription medication, make sure you have enough to last your entire trip and for the first day you get back. If not, get a refill before you leave. Of course, you’ll also want other emergency items as well. Don’t forget, many medications must be kept at temperatures above freezing, so don’t pack them in the trunk.

• Prescription medications for each person
• Tylenol, aspirin or headache medication of choice
• Cold medication
• Antiseptic
• Band-Aids

Linens

Call ahead to see if your vacation home provides bedding, pillows and towels. If not, you’ll need to bring your own.

• Sheets for each bed – make sure you have the proper sizes
• Blankets
• Pillows and pillow cases
• Towels and facecloths for each person
• Dish towels, clothes and dish soap. If you’ll be cooking in your vacation home you’ll need to wash up.

Food

If you have cooking facilities and plan to eat in, consider creating a menu for your meals. Use the menu to create a shopping list and you’ll be sure to bring the right amount of food.

• Food for all breakfasts, lunches and dinners you eat in
• Snacks – chips, nuts, cookies, fruit
• Beverages – alcoholic and non-alcoholic
• Condiments – butter, mustard, ketchup, salt, pepper

Fireside Activities

For days you don`t want to hit the slopes or for afterwards if you`re too tired to go out, bring some things to keep you and your family occupied in your room.

• Books and magazines
• iPod, hand-held computer games, cell phones, camera and rechargers
• Laptop & cord
• Favourite DVDs.
• Cards, board games, paper and pens
• Favourite toys for children
• For toddlers and preschoolers, buy a new toy to bring out when you want some quiet time. The novelty will keep the busy longer.

Outdoor Skating
Is there anything more fun than lacing up your skates and taking a turn around an outdoor rink? Head on over to the Collingwood Central Park Outdoor Rink. For the schedule or other inquiries call 705-444-2500 . In Owen Sound, outdoor skating is available at Harrison Park. Always no cost, this artificial surface in the lovely park offers great family fun. Remember, The HOSE rule is in effect: Hockey on Odd days, Skating on Even.

Alpine Skiing
For many people, skiing is the main reason for having a winter vacation at Blue Mountain. Blue Mountain resort has 36 trails ranging from beginner to double black diamond plus 15 lifts. There are great programs for kids as well. For night skiing, 24 of those trails are lit. 877-445-0231 or visit here.

Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
The Blue Mountain area has many wonderful groomed cross country trails. Scenic Caves Nature Adventures has 22 km of groomed trails for beginner and intermediate skiers.

Highlands Nordic has 25 km of groomed trails and 8 km of snowshoeing trails. Trails are lit at night to allow evening skiing.

Snowman Mania in Wasaga Beach
This four-day family event on Family Day weekend runs February 18 to 21, 2011. Activities include a Chili Cook-off, bingo, a pancake breakfast, skating, Nordic skiing, tobogganing, snowman building, snowshoeing, Snowmobile poker run, fireworks and more. Call 705-429-3844.

NordicFest at Scenic Caves
This cross country ski and snowshoe festival is held February 5th. Test the latest skis and snowshoes from major manufacturers, join in the snowman making contest, enjoy free hot chocolate all and ski the escarpment trails. Trail passes for NordicFest are $12 (reg. $18).

Georgian Bay Skijor and Dogsled Dash
Family Day weekend (February 19th & 20th) is the first annual Georgian Bay Skijor and Dogsled Dash. Hosted at Cobble Beach, just north of Owen Sound, this event has Skijor and Dog Sled teams from all over North America scheduled to attend. Skijor is a skier on cross country skis being pulled by one or two sled dogs. Click here for more info.

Family Dog sledding
If you’d prefer trying your hand at dog sledding, visit Rob Roy Snow Dogs just south of Collingwood. Get a lesson in dog sledding the try your hand at taking a team of dogs around the 1/3 km track. When you’re done sledding check out the igloo, farm animals and hot chocolate. Click here for more info or call ( 519 ) 922-2706.

Winter Caving
Free Spirit Tours in Collingwood offers guided caving tours. Head out on snowshoes in search of caves in the Niagara Escarpment. Once at the caves, take off your snowshoes and be prepared to climb and perhaps even crawl. These tours are for ages 8 and up and for all levels of experience. This is a great family activity. Visit here or call 705-444-3622.

Plunge! Aquatic Centre
If you’ve had enough of outdoor fun, Plunge! Aquatic Centre has pools, an indoor water playground, hot tubs, rope swings, docks and slides. Visit their website or call 705-444-8705.

Le Scandinave Spa
For a more relaxing indoor activity, try the Le Scandinave Spa. Near Blue Mountain this spa offers a Norwegian steam room, Finnish sauna, Nordic and thermal waterfalls, hot baths and cold plunges, solarium & relaxation areas plus outdoor fireplaces. Call 705-443-8484 or click here.

The Basics

Hotels are usually located in convenient places because they need to appeal to many people, but you might have a place with a different consideration in mind. An important vacationing rule is to make sure the location you choose is convenient for your specific needs. It’s possible you may want a place that’s a little off the beaten path, and in that case a vacation rental may be more suitable. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family bonding trip, try any one of our stylish chalets, beautiful resort condos, or townhomes.

What to Expect

What you need to look for obviously depends on your needs, but there’s a wide range of options out here. A short list might look like this: air conditioning, phone; cable television. The amenities are important too – there are lots of things available from pools to hot tubs, saunas, beaches and BBQ’s. We even offer full kitchens that afford you the chance to save a couple of bucks and eat in. It’s important to read up before your trip, make sure you pick the place that has the amenities that will reflect your trip. They will definitely be different if your trip is a romantic getaway as opposed to a family vacation.

What to Do

Plan what adventures you’d like to experience on your trip and find a vacation rental property on our website that agrees with it. Whether skiing, surfing or mountain biking, there’ll be a place for you. Naturally the climate will dictate what kinds of things you’ll be doing when you visit, and some of our properties facilitate certain activities better than others. Maybe one’s closer to the beach or the mountain, or perhaps one has better rental equipment.

When to go

Peak season is most expensive. In some cases, going then is unavoidable, say if it’s the only time you can get off work or the kids are off school. Maybe the snow on the mountain is best then too. If there’s a way to plan around it, do it, because it will save you money on accommodations. For the Blue Mountain area, the non-peak seasons are Spring and Fall. This means coming at those times will help you avoid the crowds. It’ll give you a little more space and you’ll be more relaxed when you don’t have to worry about long lineups and bumper to bumper traffic.

How to Book

Our website gives you all the information you need to book your rental property. Be sure to glance over the beautiful pictures of each property so you know exactly what to expect upon your arrival. With detailed amenities lists, price listings and a reputable source behind our name, it’s incredibly safe and easy to book your perfect vacation with us.

Happy travels!

However, with a few good tips and enough planning, traveling with a young one can be a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. You don’t have to sacrifice your travel dreams or your sanity with all of the wonderful options available for a wide variety of vacation choices involving children.

When Should We Go?

First of all, it is important to be aware of the time of year you are planning to vacation with your youngster. Venturing to a popular destination during peak season may be a bit too overwhelming with a small child, so you might be better off beating the crowds and booking a trip during off season.

Usually families with older children take their vacations during school holidays, but with a young child who is not in school full time you will have the freedom to plan your trip anytime of the year. And this may work to your advantage to ensure long lines and crowds will be at their lowest depending on where you want to go.

What Should I Bring?

Planning the vacation is half the battle, but the packing is another important step. It is vital you have everything you need to keep you and your child comfortable when you are far away from home, but you don’t want to be lugged down by excessive luggage.

If you are going somewhere that you will have access to stores that carry children’s products you regularly use, you can decide not to bring as much and pick up things like diapers or baby food when you get there. However, if you will be in a rather secluded place or not have the time to access essentials, you will have to make sure you will have enough items to last you the entire trip, plus some backups for emergencies!

Make sure to bring along any special items that will remind your child of home and comfort them if they are having a hard time adjusting to a new place. Don’t forget to bring some medications in case your child becomes under the weather.

You’re Almost There!

Above all, patience and understanding will be the difference between a fun family vacation, and a travel experience from hell with a toddler. Understand that your plans may change along the way and that things will not go as smoothly as you expected. Take it day by day and make the necessary alterations to keep you and your child happy and excited to be exploring a new place.