Welcome to the December 2003 edition of SINGLE PARENT TRAVEL e-zines - a continuing series of monthly newsletters created for the community of single adults who travel alone with kids.

In this issue:

I. GLOBAL BRENDA'S MESSAGE
II. SINGLE PARENT TOURS
III. TRAVEL SURVIVAL TIPS (for new single parents)
IV. MORE TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH INFANTS VI. MEETING SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES
VII. UNCOVERED SINGLE PARENT TRAVEL SPECIALS
VIII. SUBSCRIBERS SPEAK UP-REQUESTS, INQUIRIES, COMMENTS

I. GLOBAL BRENDA'S MESSAGE

Dear Readers,

Happy Holidays!

Last Chance: Order "The Single Parent Travel Handbook" as a gift this week and get it in time for Christmas Day for friends and relatives. You can buy an autographed copy from us at http://www.SingleParentTravel.net or purchase the book from any on- line bookstore such as Amazon or any physical bookstore.

A few people have said that some bookstores that do not carry the book. If that is the case send us an e-mail as to which bookstore and we will make sure they stock it!

May you all have a joyous and safe holiday.

Happy Travels! GlobalBrenda

II. SINGLE PARENT TOURS

We recently announced our Single Parent Getaway Weekend to Solvang, California, which will take place the weekend of February 20-22, 2004. The email announcement had incorrect midweek dates. Thanks to all the readers who emailed us advising the error. The Single Parent Tour Web site was corrected immediately. We hope you can join us on this fun-filled weekend that will include:

* Tickets to the Flying Leap Storyteller Festival. * A naturalist-guided lake cruise on a pontoon boat to view migrating birds and other wildlife. · A poolside Bar-B-Q dinner Saturday night for all the families. · And much more! Please view our Web site for additional details: · http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/Solvang.htm

Special thanks go to Johnny Jet of http://www.johnnyjet.com who suggested the quaint town of Solvang after we were unable to make suitable arrangements at San Diego or Santa Barbara. Check out Johnny's Web site, which has over 1000 links to various travel suppliers.

For all you northern Californians, keep in mind our Monterey Weekend on January 16-18, 2004 that includes a family scavenger hunt on the beach, a visit to the fabulous Monterey Bay Aquarium and more. For details click on: http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/Monterey.htm

On March 19-21 we will run an exciting weekend to Estes Park, Colorado that will include a snowshoeing excursion, a ranger-guided activity and a fun-for-all evening at the local bowling alley. Details on this weekend will be posted to our Web site prior to the Christmas holidays.

Thanks to all those who responded to the straw polls of Washington DC vs. Annapolis and Arizona vs. an adventure trip to Utah. In both cases we had a large response and the tally came in very close for both locations.

The Washington DC (or Annapolis) weekend will take place in spring 2004 and will be announced on our Web site and via newsletter prior to the Christmas holidays. We are still negotiating with travel suppliers for those two destinations. Given the close vote, our negotiations will determine the destination this year.

In May we will offer a weekend to Boston. Philadelphia will also be on the weekend docket for late spring or early fall.

For more details on the trips we are running, visit: http://www.SingleParentTours.com or call Janet or Renee at 877-GO-GO- SPT

III. TRAVEL SURVIVAL TIPS

For some, this holiday period may be the first time you are traveling as a single parent with your child or children. As a single mom you may have to assume responsibilities that often were the domain of your husband. As a single dad, you may have to provide for your child by doing things that your wife always took care of. We hope these tips will ease your journey and make it more enjoyable and safe for everyone.

Although these tips are very basic, many of you may find them useful to review. I invite our readers to share their travel tips as a first- time single parent. We will post your responses in a future newsletter.

First let's start with some tips for new single parent moms:

Are you driving to your destination? Then do the following:

1. Get your car thoroughly checked before your trip.

2. Pack the car with every navigational tool you will need - directions, city and state maps - and study them before the trip.

3. If your kids are not old enough to read and you need to follow complicated directions to your destination, write them out in a big black marker or in bold type on your computer and tape them to your dashboard so you can drive and read at the same time.

4. Make sure your car has every tool needed to signal a breakdown or fix a flat tire.

5. Consider investing in a cell phone

Are you flying to your destination and renting a car? Heed the following:

1. When you reserve your rental car, sign up for one of their membership programs that allow you speedy check-in so you can bypass the long counter lines.

2. Pre-reserve any kid's seats you need. Got a teen-ager? Pre- request a CD or tape player.

3. Before reserving your rental car, call your car insurance and credit card companies so you know what insurance coverage you have. You may not need to purchase any additional insurance for the car rental.

4. Once you get to your rental car, before you leave the parking space, familiarize yourself with the operation of the car - wipers, lights, etc. If you have any questions, seek out an attendant before you leave the garage.

5. Collect a local rental car map and pay attention to how to get back to the rental car lot. Directional signs are usually excellent when returning cars back to airports, but there are exceptions.

6. Keep the rental car agreement out of sight and in the glove compartment.

What else can a woman do to make the trip easier and safer for her family?

1. Type up an itinerary. Include all confirmation numbers, directions to hotel, etc. on the itinerary. Get the kids involved in the planning stage.

2. Carry your money in more than one place. Pin some big bills to your bra. Get rid of a bulky purse and use a fanny pack instead. You want to travel hands free.

3. Walk with confidence. Know where you are going before you leave the hotel or your family's or friend's home.

4. Be aware of your environment. Trust your instincts. If you feel an area to be unsafe, duck into a restaurant and have them call a cab for you. Better yet, inquire as to safe areas, before you leave for your walk.

Now for some travel suggestions for new single parent dads:

1. Type up an itinerary and involve the kids in planning any special activities you will be doing as a family.

2. Use a packing list. This is helpful whether you or your child is doing the packing. There are samples on my Web site: http://www.singleparenttravel.net/Writing/Pack/index.htm

3. Pack healthy snacks with a little junk stuff thrown in for a treat. Some healthy examples are sandwiches, fresh fruit, cut-up bagels & cream cheese, cut-up veggies such as carrots and celery. Let the kids help you prepare the snacks. Throw in some chips or cookies, plus lots of water and you are all set for auto or flight travel.

4. Bring comfort items on the trip for your child or children - a favorite pillow, a teddy bear, and a few favorite books. Also bring some new items - books, games they can play in the car or on the plane.

5. If you are flying to your destination be prepared to entertain your child the entire trip, if necessary. If you are driving, be prepared to stop every couple of hours for "run-around" time.

6. The last tip comes from a single parent dad who wrote a story in my book. If you are the father of a little girl, when you take her to the ladies' room, make certain there is only one exit or you may be waiting for her in the wrong spot.

My book, "The Single Parent Travel Handbook," is loaded with travel tips and entertaining stories for both the beginner and experienced traveler. Treat yourself for Christmas and order a copy at any online or physical bookstore or from my Web site: http://www.singleparenttravel.net/book/index.htm

One last important tip for both moms and dads: If you are traveling out of the country with your child, you may need to have a notarized letter of consent from the absentee parent. Check out my documentation page for further details: http://www.singleparenttravel.net/Writing/Documentation/index.htm

IV. MORE TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH INFANTS

These additional tips were contributed anonymously by our pediatrician's daughter who has traveled extensively with her children:

"Take enough diapers, formula and food for an extra day in case of flight cancellations or delays.

Try not to give children foods high in sugar or caffeine when traveling - calming foods like milk, cereal, crackers and vegetables are best.

When changing aircraft, let children run loose in the airport so they will be more settled once they get confined in the aircraft.

Bring a stroller and check it at the gate so it will be available when you get off the aircraft. I recommend picking up a used stroller at a yard sale to use for traveling because they get beaten up.

If you don't purchase a seat for your infant, you may need to check your car seat with your baggage. I recommend putting the car seat in a piece of luggage or asking the agent for a large plastic bag to put it in. This will reduce some of the wear and tear that will inevitably happen.

Many car rental companies offer a free car seat to AAA customers renting their cars. Inquire before you rent, that way you won't have to bring your own car seat.

Request an aisle seat when booking your ticket. Children like to move around during long flights. If you're in an aisle seat, you won't have to disturb the fellow passenger who wants to sleep during the flight.

Bring small toys, books, stickers, markers, crayons, etc. to entertain children on long flights. People traveling with children are permitted to bring a diaper bag in addition to one piece of carry- on luggage.

Always give children something to drink or eat during take-off and landing."

V. MEETING OTHER SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES

cashmier2000 wrote, "Single mom in Seattle, I want to take my 3 year old daughter on a vacation late summer, early fall. Would prefer a beach location. I looked at the trip to Jamaica but the airfare for us would be $950. each (that is over my budget). I was thinking about Mexico but I am concerned about being a single female in a foreign country. Any suggestions? " She received a ton of suggestions, read them at: ; http://pub15.ezboard.com/fsingleparenttravelfrm1.showMessage? topicID=12.topic

mikeyd writes: "I am a 23 year old guy looking to possibly meet a single mom. I am interested in fun loving moms who are not only good moms, but enjoy having fun. I am about 5'7', brown hair and eyes, Italian, slim/athletic build. I am a real sweet guy, love kids, and am looking for a fun girl to meet. I am from northern KY. Take a chance, my email is mdelella@cinci.rr.com"

Reply to him at: http://pub15.ezboard.com/fsingleparenttravelfrm13.showMessageRange? topicID=3.topic&start=41&stop=47

V.M. writes, "I live in Calif. I would like to plan a 3-day trip to the mountains for skiing; my daughter is 3 years old. I would like her to start skiing lessons. I am looking for someone with children no older than 5 or 6 to travel with." Reply to VMBurchell@aol.com

Ms. Diva writes, "Hi, I'm a black female Gen x-ish mom of a 5 y.o. girl. We live in D.C. and would like to meet another family with girls between 4 and 10 for budget travel. We've done a few day trips and are ready to branch out." - D. Reply to: diva_746@yahoo.com

VI. UNCOVERED SINGLE PARENT TRAVEL SPECIALS

Single Parent Travel Special #1 - Single Parent Tours goes to Solvang, CA

Our weekend trip (February 20 -21) to Solvang, CA.

Welcome " Velkommen" to the Danish capital of America. (No passport needed) The gentle rolling hills, windmills, quiet streets, horse drawn carriages, family bicycles, golf courses, horse ranches, wineries, Danish bakeries, authentic Danish costumes worn by some shop keepers, Danish smorgasbord restaurants, museums of racing and Solvang history, all in the Danish atmosphere and architecture are waiting for you at Solvang, CA. We welcome you!

Join other single parent families in the Danish capital of America. The weekend includes two nights accommodations at the Royal Copenhagen Inn in Solvang, CA (2 hrs drive north of Los Angeles), a welcome reception and get-together Friday evening, bakery breakfasts Saturday and Sunday mornings, a performance by the Flying Leap Storytellers, poolside BBQ dinner on Saturday, lake cruise and plenty of leisure time for sightseeing and shopping. One adult and one child is $471 plus tax & service. Call 877-GOGO-SPT or see http://www.SingleParentTours.com for other pricing.

Single Parent Special #2 Great Camp Sagamore, Adirondacks, NY

Sagamore's Family Week, to be held during August 22-27, 2004, is designed for families with school-aged children to spend the week doing activities together. Price includes family accommodations, all meals and activities. Their guides lead hikes, canoe trips, arts & crafts, sing-a-longs and campfires. Adults cost $585 and children aged 5 to 12 cost $292. To book, call your local travel agent or 315- 354-5311 or visit their Web site http://www.Sagamore.org.

Single Parent Travel Special #3 Cruise July 3, 2004

Amanda Herring is hosting a single parent & kid(s) 7-day cruise leaving July 3, 2004 from Houston, TX. The Norwegian Sea vessel will be visiting Grand Caymans, Cozumel and Honduras. There will be organized get-togethers for the group on board such as a Ping Pong Tournament, Karaoke, and Pool Games. Cost for one adult and one child is $3,507.44 and for one adult and two children: $6,391.74. This includes government fees/taxes, port charges, meals & entertainment on ship. Please contact Amanda at 866-771-8608 or Amanda@amandaherring.com

Single Parent Travel Special #4 - Katherine's Condo, St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands

This special is from one of our readers, "Hi, I am reading your letter with interest when it comes, I have been single for 7 years now and I love to travel with my kids (12 & 14). I have recently purchased a condo on the beach in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. It is very nice and relaxing specially when you have teenagers and they can move around independently in the resort and make friends. It seems they are lots of them around. There are also a lot of things on the island that we can do as a family and there is plenty of adult entertainment too - from nice restaurants to beach parties to very friendly people. But most I enjoy a beach chair and a book and my kids and also cooking together, a nice break from our fast paced life. I rent it out when we do not use it, so if anybody needs a beak they can check out our website http://www.paradisestt.com"

VII. SUBSCRIBERS SPEAK UP-REQUESTS, INQUIRIES, COMMENTS

Q: "I am a single parent living in Simi Valley, California. I read thru your e-mail & it seems members are all in the mid west or back east. Do you know of a chapter or organization for single parent travel somewhere in the west coast? I am a recent widow with 2 young children, boy & girl, and am looking to meet other single parents." - M.D.

GLOBALBRENDA'S ANSWER: Allow me to clear up a misconception. Based on 2 national surveys we have done in the past 2 years, our second biggest Single Parent market is California, (the New York area is #1). This is why SingleParentTours.com is running 2 weekend getaway trips to CA this winter.

May I suggest a wonderful organization where you can meet other single parents. It is called Parents Without Partners. Their Web site is: http://www.parentswithoutpartners.org. There are local chapters all over the US.

If you would like to meet other Californian single parents, read about our trips at http://www.SingleParentTours.com

Q: "Do you have any suggestions for a vacation to Florida or the Caribbean for next summer last week of June or first week of July? That is when my son's football team takes a break from practice. My son is 16 and I would like to take him for a few days to an affordable place that is all inclusive with air as well." - J.K.

GLOBALBRENDA'S ANSWER: I have several suggestions:

1) If you haven't already, pick up a copy of my book, "The Single Parent Travel Handbook." Besides being informative and entertaining it list about 80 travel agents in the USA that specialize in single parent travel. They can give you great advice on the best specials. You can order my book at any bookstore, online or physical or on my Web site (for an autographed copy) http://www.singleparenttravel.net/book/

2) Check out Apple Vacations. They have great all-inclusives to the Caribbean including airfare. You have to book thru a travel agent.

3) Beaches Hotels is another supplier we recommend. Unfortunately their single parent specials run in May and then August to October but they have other all -inclusives.

One last thought, we are considering running an adventure tour to the Southwest in June - hiking, biking, rafting. We expect this tour will appeal to many single parent families with teen-agers. Keep it in mind.

Q: "My mother and 8 YO son and I would like to take a cruise to Bermuda from New York. Do you have any suggestions on ships that you would recommend? What would be the best time of year to do this? We went to Bermuda in February when I was 7 and I would love to take my son." - B.D.

GLOBALBRENDA'S ANSWER: Weather wise, the best time to go to Bermuda is spring through fall. During that time you will have pleasant summer weather. You should shop around for cruises. A good place to start is: http://www.cruise411.com

L.B. suggests, "For the person looking for more exotic trips in your newsletter, I would suggest Journeys International. http://www.journeysinternational.com (They also have a family trip website, though it mostly links you back to the main site for family trips). They don't cater to single parents, but they have great trips (they specialize in eco-tours) and they let you know if they're kid friendly. We went on a customized family trip a few years ago (9 people from 3 generations--3 kids, 6 adults) and it was great. I bet their regular trips include many non-traditional families as well."

Teresa Plowright, from Travel With Kids at http://travelwithkids.about.com , writes: "Just want to pass on this info about family tours to exotic locations: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/stylelist.php?style=family The tours look pretty good, I think. I just received an email from them last week."

Q: "My ten year old daughter is fascinated with sea turtles. I would like to plan an authentic trip somewhere where she experiences the turtles in their natural habitat, perhaps with naturalists?

I don't know the best time to go. She wants to go to the Galapagos Islands but that may be cost-prohibitive. I hear that Florida has a large turtle population. If there are any great deals for the Galapagos and you know about it, please let me know." - C.C.

GLOBALBRENDA'S ANSWER: There is no better place in the world to experience what you want to do than the Galapagos. Not only will you see sea turtles galore (and many other incredible animals) but you will do so in the company of wonderfully enthusiastic and well- informed naturalist guides.

There are other places - the Maya Riviera, Costa Rica, and Hawaii. But nothing compares to the Galapagos. I strongly recommend you purchase a copy of my book, "The Single Parent Travel Handbook." for 2 reasons:

1) I did an excellent write-up on the Galapagos as one of my featured destinations. 2) It will give you helpful hints as to how to find and CREATE your own bargain prices.

There is no off season for the Galapagos but there are off-weeks or off-months when cruise ships run with empty rooms. The book explains how to use this to your advantage. http://www.singleparenttravel.net/book/

Q: "I've been with my daughter when she was 12 and again 14. Your reply to the woman who was taking her kids [to Paris] did not mention the gypsies in the area of the square in front of Notre Dame and the souvenir shops in that area, or the area around the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadoro. These are both areas to be very careful about pickpockets!

My daughter loved the Ferris wheel in the Tuilleries and watching the little kids sail boats in the Luxembourg Gardens. These might not work so well in winter though. Make sure the kids get to have crepes at a cafe where they can watch them being made!" - J.C.

Q: "I was reading the latest newsletter and saw the e-mail you received on staying in Vermont on Lake Champlain. Since I am a Vermonter my suggestion would be the Basin Harbor Club (http://www.basinharbor.com). They are open from May to October, have rooms in the main lodge, or cabins overlooking the lake. They have activities and programs for children, as well as, canoes, sailboats and paddleboats for rent. It's a beautiful area, and a great place for kids. Down the road from Basin Harbor is Button Bay State Park, if you're on a budget and like to camp. The park overlooks the lake, also has a pool, and is safe and secure. There is a nature center, trails for bike riding, and educational programs for children. Basin Harbor would actually be a great place for a Single Parent Travel adventure." - D.M.

Q: "Have you heard of any plans that allow you to make installment payments on a vacation for a single parent family?" - S.P.

GLOBALBRENDA'S ANSWER: I am not aware of any. Most people pay for travel via their credit card nowadays and that would be their installment plan. Travel now; pay later (in installments). All joking aside, banks used to have a Christmas savings plan. Perhaps your local bank has a vacation savings plan. You deposit a certain amount per month and then shortly before your vacation, you withdraw that amount. Perhaps your local bank can set that up.

When I worked for Carlson Wagonlit Travel, a large travel management company, the company offered a "vacation purchase plan." You could take an additional week's vacation (above and beyond that to which you were normally entitled) and you could have week's pay pro-rated as a deduction against your normal paycheck so you did not have a week without pay. Some employees never took the extra week but used it as a savings plan instead. If anyone else has come across something like this, please let me know.

Q: "Several of us are trying to put together a 12 week course for single parents. The course should be part support, information, and provide resources for single parents struggling with all of the issues that affect this very common household type. As you know, a very high percentage of children will live in a single parent household at some point in their lives.

My research has shown there to be nothing in North Mecklenburg County where we live. I am looking for a structured program that already exists (like Divorce Care for folks that are dealing with divorce), print resources that can assist in developing a curriculum, and/or speakers/human resources that can assist in the development, conduct facilitation, or speak from time to time. I wasn't sure if you could help, but I thought I would try...thanks for your thoughts." - T.C. Please reply to this newsletter with suggestions for T.C. and we will post it on the next newsletter. - GlobalBrenda