Welcome to the July 2005 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.

To sign up for our newsletter go to http://www.SingleParentTravel.net. Forward this newsletter to a friend!

In this issue:

I. GLOBAL BRENDA'S MESSAGE
II. SINGLE PARENT TOURS
III. AIRLINE TRAVEL TIPS BY GAIL FOSTER.
IV. SINGLE PARENT FAMILY FRIENDLY SPECIALS
V. MEETING OTHER SINGLE PARENTS
VI. SUBSCRIBERS SPEAK UP-REQUESTS, INQUIRIES, COMMENTS

I. GLOBALBRENDA'S MESSAGE

Dear Readers,

I spent last weekend flying to Portland, Oregon to speak at the international convention of Parents Without Partners. This is a wonderful organization, one of the first to lend help and support to single parent families. If you are looking to make friends or find local activities for you and your child, consider joining a local chapter of PWP, or forming one of your own! For more information go to http://www.parentswithoutpartners.org After the convention I drove out to the coast to visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, the second largest monolith in the world. Who can guess the largest? (For the answer, see the end of this section). It was low tide at the time I was there and many families had gathered to view the incredible array of brightly colored starfish, mollusks, crabs and other sea creatures too numerous to mention. The Oregon Coast is one of the featured destinations in my book, "The Single Parent Travel Handbook."

Last month we sent out an announcement about a Single Parent Tours' cruise to the Caribbean over spring break 2006. Shortly thereafter, the cruise line changed their group booking policy, which now requires submitting a passenger list for all cabins within 30-60 days. Since most of our group members sign up at a later time, we had to abandon that cruise line, due to its "user-unfriendly" new policy. We were fortunate to secure space on an exciting summer cruise to Canada from New York. This is a popular time to travel - the last week of June - and we got a great rate! So come and join us. Details are below in Section II under Single Parent Tours. Readers have been asking us for a cruise and now you have it, and in plenty of time to book.

Our feature story this month is by one of my readers, Gail Foster, a flight attendant, and single parent mom, who has some great ideas about how to travel and where to sit on a plane. (And all along you thought that bulkhead was best for babies - not so, according to Gail). Read more in Section III.

Lastly, I will be leaving for Patagonia July 30 for ten days, as part of my new job with Maxim Tours. This is one of our biggest selling areas so I will be doing hotel inspections and excursions to learn about the area. Patagonia is a large area at the bottom of the world, running across Chile and Argentina. The terrain ranges from volcanoes and lakes in the northern part, to glaciers and mountains at the bottom of the continent. So I will be exchanging 90-degree weather for minus 9!

During that time my daughter Monique will respond to urgent email messages, otherwise I will respond to you when I return. If your questions concerns documentation, read the Documentation Section on my Web site - http://www.singleparenttravel.net The answers to most of your questions can be found on my Web site or in my book, "The Single Parent Travel Handbook."

Hasta luego! GlobalBrenda

II. SINGLE PARENT TOURS

BEACHES BOSCOBEL - AUGUST 21 - 28, 2005 - OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA Space is still available for this very popular single parent week. Over 20 families have already booked. Sign up before it sells out! For details see http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/Beaches.htm or call 877-GOGO SPT. Ask for Janet or Lynda.

ROCKING HORSE RANCH RESORT - HUDSON VALLEY, NEW YORK EeeHaa! We have 2 weekends coming up - Nov 18-20. 2005 and April 28- 30, 2006. These are wonderful fun-filled weekends with a non-stop choice of activities. Learn to ride a horse, line dance, or frolic in the beautiful indoor pool. For more details click on http://www.singleparenttours.com. We are taking reservations for both weekends.

CRUISE TO CANADA - FROM NYC - JUNE 26 - July 17, 2005 Enjoy an all-inclusive vacation to one of the most beautiful areas of the world - New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Watch the highest tides in the world come rolling into the Bay of Fundy, an experience you and your family will never forget! For more information click on: http://www.singleparenttours.com/tours/Cruise1.htm or call 877-GOGO SPT and ask for Janet or Lynda.

III. AIRLINE TRAVEL TIPS BY GAIL FOSTER "Traveling with children always seems like it will be so wonderful until the trip actually gets started. Then you find that you have to overcome many, many Obstacles, but if you have a seasoned traveler for a child, it always works out so much better. But for those whose children are not seasoned travelers, here are a few pointers:

* Whenever you are traveling with your children, book your reservations in advance, so you can get the best available fare and also some great seat assignments. If the fare is not a problem for you, you should still book in advance to get the type of seats you want for your family. Remember to choose your seats, before ending you conversation with your travel agent or booking on line. That's very important when traveling with children because you don't want to get split up.

* When you're traveling with an infant, some people try to get the bulkhead seat so they can have more room. This is not always an advantage or the best seat, because you need to have a seat in front of you for storing your diaper bag under it, so you can have access to everything you need at all times. Today, with increased security, it's a lot more inconvenient to get up and down and out of your seat. If you have a bulkhead seat, your bag will be stored in an overhead compartment. If the infant needs a bottle, medicine, diapers, or a change of clothes, you won't be able to make a move until the pilot turns off the "fasten your seat belt" light.

* If you have an infant and did not book a seat, call the airline prior to the departure and check the loads. If the flight has quite a few open seats, bring the car seat on board and use it. If the open seats are filled at time of check-in, you can gate check your car seat and have it available for your car rental or the shuttle service to take you to your destination.

* When traveling with toddlers and younger children, don't rely on the airline to feed anybody. It is best to pack you own meal or snacks because you never know what might happen and the cost of food in the airport is sky high. I always travel with my own little snack bag. It's always great when the beverage service comes and you break out your own little picnic and the kids enjoy it and everybody around you is very envious because they wish that they had done the same thing. You know your children's likes and dislikes and the airlines basically serve the same thing over and over. The menu never really changes and if you travel a lot, your children will get bored with those meals very quickly.

* The Weather Channel is a great traveling tool. Always check it prior to our your trip, to see the forecast for your departure and destination cities. By doing this, you will know what to pack for the weather conditions ahead. This is important when traveling with children. Having the right attire for changing weather conditions will keep your trip from becoming unpleasant. This is important when traveling in and out of small cities, as these smaller commuter flights do not use jet ways, so you are right out there in the weather.

* Once children reach 3years of age they should have their own backpack or pull on luggage. I have a saying that "If you want to travel with me, you have to carry your own bags." This helps children become more independent and responsible for their own belongings. We have lost plenty of things on the plane, but it is a learning experience. It also gives you more packing space."

A note about the author: Gail Foster and her son Obasi are extensive travelers and have been traveling together since Obasi was 3 months old. Gail started traveling as a little girl, when her father was in the military and later started working for an airline so it was non-stop travel after that. Traveling with her son while he was so young was quite an experience. Besides dealing with different environments, they dealt with all kinds of bugs, lizards, foods, and cultures. Gail and her son have traveled throughout the Caribbean, Western Europe and much of the United States. They visit Los Angeles at least once a month to see family. They recently relocated to North Carolina, where Gail went to high school and college. Their future travel plans include Australia, New Zealand, Central America & South American and South Africa. Gail says that by the time her son graduates from high school, he will have friends all over the world. Gail feels that traveling gives children the opportunity to expand their horizons early in life and lets them know that anything is obtainable. Should readers wish to contact Gail directly her email is: g.foster@sbcglobal.net

IV. SINGLE PARENT FAMILY FRIENDLY SPECIALS

SPT Special #1 - Carolina Family Adventures, Western Carolinas

Carolina Family Adventures, a company that specializes in "Pampered Family Vacations Without Stress," is offering a 50% reduction in the single supplement price for any single parent that books a trip with them this summer. Their single supplements range from $300 to $700, so that is a savings of up to $350. All of CFA's trips are located in the western Carolinas and are designed specifically for families. They like to think of their packages as a "cruise on land" with accommodations, meals, and daily activities all included in one price. Prices vary per trip, so please visit their Web site at http://www.carolinafamilyadventures.com. and learn more about our unique family trips or call Jill Fuson at 866-(WITH-KIDS) 948-4543.

SPT Special #2 - East Hill Farm, Troy, N.H

The Inn at East Hill Farm meets our criteria for single parent family friendly specials: The Inn at East Hill Farm doesn't charge a single supplement, ever. Children pay a child's rate even if there is only one adult, always. Their activities are geared to any combination of family. Often they have an activity that only one parent attends with their child(ren), some activities are done just by the kids (like a ping pong tournament) and some activities are done by any and all that want to participate (like kids vs. adult volleyball or dodge ball). Prices (including meals) for one adult and one child aged 5-7 begin at $160 per night. For more information, please call them at -800-242-6495 or see their Web site: http://www.east-hill-farm.com

SPT Special #3 - Eastover Resort, Lenox, MA

Eastover Resort is a year around recreational resort that has instituted Single Parent Weekends on July 5-8 and August 26-28. During these periods we will have receptions exclusively for Single Parent families, and our social schedule is full from morning to night. Packages (including meals) for one adult and one child aged 3- 7 begin at $170 per night. We do not charge a "single supplement". Please visit our web-site at http://www.eastover.com for more information or call the resort at 1-800-VACAFUN.

Check out all our single parent travel specials at http://www.singleparenttravel.net/Specials/

* Don't have a travel agent? Then find one in "The Single Parent Travel Handbook" which has a listing of over 75 travel agents who specialize in single parent travel. Buy the book from any place books are sold or get an autographed copy from GlobalBrenda, the author, at http://www.SingleParentTravel.net/Book/

IV. MEETING OTHER SINGLE PARENTS

Two moms are discussing about a trip to st. thomas or other carribean island. If you think you might be planning this type of trip, jump into the conversation. http://tinyurl.com/ay395

Another mom, Sudera, is looking for a travel buddy. See if your interests suit here by reading her post here: http://tinyurl.com/bo5qq

Please note that this bulletin board service is provided free of charge to our readers. The Single Parent Travel Network does not monitor postings or have any knowledge of the exact nature of the individuals doing the posting. BEFORE communicating with anyone on the bulletin board, please take precautions to protect you and your family. Also, please note that if you post your email address on the bulletin board, there is a likelihood that it will be harvested by spammers. Thank you.

VI. SUBSCRIBERS SPEAK UP-REQUESTS, INQUIRIES, COMMENTS

Martin V writes: I AM PLANNINGA TRIP TO THE GRAND CANYON IN MID JULY. ONE OF THE THINGS I WAS LOOKING AT IS THE TRAIN TRIP FROM WILLIAMS TO THE CANYON. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY FEED BACK OR ANY OTHER INFORMAION YOU OR YOUR MEMBERS MIGHT HAVE. I LIVE IN CALIFORNIA. IN THE SAN GABRIEL VALLEY. I CAN BE REACHD @ MYDADA912@WEBTV.NET

Maria from Illinois writes: Hi Brenda. I am a single mom with 3 teenagers. They are 13 (girl), 16 and 17 (boys). My daughter would love to see California. I am trying to find a great, yet affordable vacation spot. A nice hotel (resort)/or cabin on a beautiful beach, yet there would have to be other activities/sites very close to keep their interest. I don't want to drive too far or prefer not to have to drive at all once I get to my destination resort. Please help! We are looking to go in late July or early August. I'm searching from Wisconsin to California but still haven't found that "perfect place". Email me at: maria@woodstockilchamber.com.

Alisa writes: Dear Brenda, I wanted to send you an FYI about the Single parent house in Westhampton. My son and I stayed there Monday after reading about it on your site a few weeks ago. The owner, Mark is a really nice guy but I don't think he has cleaned the house in quite a long time! I would be a little wary referring people there as it reminds me of my first summer share 25 years ago. Everything is broken or dirty. All the cabinets in the kitchen are broken and the refrigerator was filthy. I don't think you would ever want to cook on his grill, as it had not been cleaned in a very long time. I think he is the kind of guy that just doesn't notice. The house is in a great location, near town in a beautiful neighborhood but unfortunately it is the worst house on the block. He was so proud of the basement full of toys and games yet the mildew was too much. This house needs a makeover! I loved the idea of a kids house to share but this was quite a wreck...Sincerely A. Fastenberg. PS- I love your website

Dave Gordon from the UK writes: My wife and I will be visiting Florida in June 2006. Travelling with us will be our daughter who will be 13 years old. My daughter has asked if she can take a friend along. Her friend will also be 13 years old - she lives with her mother following a divorce. Her Mother has been granted sole custody. We are all British Citizens and will all have our own UK passports. Can you advise what documentation and/or permissions will be needed for her to (a) enter and exit the US with us and (b) obtain medical treatment etc should it prove necessary (I guess I'm thinking of parental permissions etc)Thanks GlobalBrenda responds:

Excellent questions. First, go to my Web site - http://www.singleparenttravel.net - and click on the Documentation section on the left side. That will answer your questions or get you started in the right direction. Second, yes, in the U.S.A., you will need to have written parental permission to obtain medical treatment for your daughter's friend. I do not think we have a template for that medical letter on my Web site but you can use the letter of consent template and modify that to your needs. Also, I would carry copies of any medical plan or identification card that covers this young lady. Make sure you have contact information for this young lady's mother in the event you need to call her. About 8% of my 8000 readers are from the UK so if you find out any interesting information pertaining to UK travelers, please let me know so we can post it to our Web site. We like to keep it updated. Have a wonderful trip!

Arlene R writes: I am a single mom by choice, late 40's, with a great 8-yr-old daughter. We live in NYC now, after many years in Seattle, and are looking for companions - dads or moms - to get out of the city with. We have no car so we'd be dependent on you or we could all rent a car together. We enjoy hiking, lakes and oceans, country fairs, B&B's, just about anything that's not too physically challenging! But, hey, there's always a first time. We don't have oodles of money so fancy cruises and trips to Disney World are probably out. Hope to hear from you. (Readers can contact Arlene at: arlene_98103@yahoo.com

Linda writes: Just wanted to thank you for the encouragement I received from your website to just get out there and go for it! After 20 years as a couple, I didn't have much confidence in traveling alone with three children (ages 8-16). I'm over that now! We've taken a road trip from San Francisco to San Diego, a Disney cruise, stayed at the Rui Palace in Cabo, a long weekend in Austin/San Antonio and a fabulous trip to Hawaii in the last couple of years. I appreciate your suggestions and especially the confidence your articles inspire!

Lisa from Kentucky writes: I just wanted to let you know how much I have enjoyed your book. I accidentally came across it last year at the library (yours is the only book I can find about single parent travel) and as I was planning a 2-week trip to Boston with my 2 boys (ages 5 and 10), I checked it out. I was amazed at the practical advice you had and was impressed by all the places you have taken your children. I ended up reading it about 4 times before we left and am reading it again this year as we are taking a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in October. I am planning on purchasing a copy from your website so that I will have my own. You have been an inspiration to me to have the courage to go against the norm and take my children on interesting vacations on my own. Thank you, Thank you! Keep up the excellent work; I look forward to reading more from you in the future.

J. Bateman (a single parent dad) writes: I am trying to plan a trip with two boys 5 & 8 for a week in august and it will be the first time we travel as a "family" without mom (recent separation). Are there any places dude ranch/club med/beaches/etc with specific programs/weeks/etc for single parent families - it would benefit the kids and me! GlobalBrenda responds: I have 3 wonderful suggestions for you: 1) In August Single Parent Tours runs a highly successful Single Parent Week at Beaches Boscobel in Jamaica. We usually have 25 to 30 single parent families participating and everyone, adults and kids, have a wonderful time. For details go to my web site http://www.singleparenttours.com and click on Jamaica.

2) Check out the Single Parent Family Specials on my Web site http://www.SingleParentTravel.net. Click on specials on the left.

3) I run two very popular weekends every year (April and Nov) at Rocking Horse Ranch Resort in NY state. I cannot guarantee there will be single parent families in August but it is a family place. Details are also on my tour Web site. Tell them Single Parent Tours sent you.

Lastly buy a copy of my book, "The Single Parent Travel Handbook." It has lots of great tips for traveling with your kids as a single parent and the book includes 7 terrific stories written by single parent dads. It is entertaining and informative. You can order through my Web site. Hope to see you and your kids on one of my tours!

Mimi writes: Just reading the e-mail question from Shelley A. who is going to NYC with her son to celebrate his birthday. I have a friend who lives in Battery Park City and I take my son there frequently. Some fun things to do with kids: Take a Circle Tour of New York harbor. The boat travels all the way around the island of Manhattan and is narrated with nifty historical facts. A great view of the Manhattan and surrounding boroughs. Times Square - The ESPN Zone restaurant and Arcade is particularly fun for boys. All sports related stuff, etc. Also, the Toys R Us store in Times Square has a Ferris wheel inside the store! Of course, Lady Liberty and perhaps Ellis Island. Her son may be too young for that.

There's a great Tenement Museum on the East Side near Chinatown. Takes folks on a tour of restored tenement buildings and you learn how early immigrants survived. Tour guides are actors who portray people who lived in the tenements. Also, just a walk through Chinatown at the outdoor fish and vegetable market is a neat experience. I hear there's an excellent Children's Museum in Chinatown, too.

Museum of Natural History for Dinosaurs and astronomy buffs! There is a museum of Broadcast in mid-town Manhattan, which is great for a rainy day. It houses all the old TV shows. You can make selections and view on private video monitors. I took my son and we watched the Beatles first appearance on Ed Sullivan, old Saturday Night Live shows and Leave it to Beaver, Mr. Ed, I Love Lucy, etc.... Fun stuff that he had never seen. A visit to the Today Show and Rockefeller Plaza is always exciting. And there's a Trump Tower building very nearby.

The subways are great for getting around. There's a terrific laminated map that can be purchased that is very useful. You can buy a transit card in the subway and rather than buying tokens, keep adding to it to travel around. The subway system can be a bit overwhelming. But, people are very helpful with directions ... just ask! Well, that's my two cents.

(GlobalBrenda says: Dear Mimi, sounds more like $2.00 to me! Thank you!)

MC writes: Hi Brenda, I don't know how to start thanking you for thinking of us single parents. So I just want to say thank you. I recently found your website and tried to go to the Beaches at Turks and Caicos resort. Unfortunately I was informed by Janet that the hotel is full. But I didn't give up easily so I went on Expedia.com and look up the hotel availability and luckily I found partial week available for me and my 7 year old son (July 24th -27th). I would like to get together with the other single parents who are going to Turks and Caicos on July 24-30th but don't know how to contact them. I also would like to know if I can join the group for activity while I'm there. I don't mind to pay for any fees. Please let me know if you can help me and get some contact for me.

GB responds: By going on the Web you booked directly and Single Parent Tours receives no benefit from your booking. Not only do we lose the commission, but we lose you statistically as part of our group and statistics give us greater buying power the next year. I am glad you were able to find accommodations but next time please see if you can work with Janet or Lynda to book through them, even if it were only for a few nights. That way you would have been part of the group and received the group benefits. Hopefully you can join us for one of our other trips next year! Enjoy Beaches!