San Diego Union-Tribune (Sunday)

WHILE YOU’RE GROUNDED, MAKE A TRAVEL WISH LIST

- BY LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES O’rourke Hayes is a freelance writer, an author and family travel expert. This article was provided by Tribune News Service.

Although we may not be traveling much for a while, we can still plan for the future. While we’re spending time at home, consider creating a family travel bucket list for future use.

Here are five ideas to consider:

Reflect your values

Your travel choices will be a thoughtful and deliberate reflection of your family’s values, hopes and dreams. Before you begin researchin­g and listing desired destinatio­ns, discuss what aspects of the world — geographic­ally, spirituall­y and culturally — you want to share together as a family.

Discuss priorities and passions

Are you a nature, history, sports or art lover? Do you want your children or grandchild­ren to learn how to ski, photograph or scuba dive? Take time to consider what will expand your family’s horizons.

Identify places

Americans get low marks for knowledge of geography. Begin with a good online or paper map or atlas and consider studying the globe. As your planning progresses, remember that kids don’t know what they don’t know. Certain theme parks and resorts will likely be on their radar screens. But they may not be aware of the glories of the Grand Canyon or the historical significan­ce of Gettysburg.

Sample the experience online

As you discuss various options, use online resources to familiariz­e the family with the possibilit­ies.

As an example, Google Arts & Culture has paired with more than 500 museums and galleries that your family can experience through virtual tours. Get a closer look at artsandcul­ture.google.com.

Dollars and sense

Choosing to make travel a priority is a decision that may require forgoing other luxuries or experience­s. Consider creating a travel savings account. Opt for travel-related gifts for birthdays, graduation­s and holidays. Encourage children to establish their own travel fund.

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