Just had a great vacation idea...I think

<p>So I’ve been thinking about doing something special with my daughter after we drop S off at UA in August (primarily because it seems like most of the attention is on him and his college stuff - which I don’t see changing between now and August.) </p>

<p>I was thinking we could drop S off for AA and get him moved in then go to New Orleans or Gulf Shores for 3-5 days then swing back by UA the next weekend to see S one more time before heading back to Michigan.</p>

<p>Good or bad idea? Should we not try to visit S again the following weekend? (Is it too much?) Also, what would be a better choice - New Orleans or Gulf Shores - or somewhere else completely?</p>

<p>I think it’s a terrific idea. I would guess DS would probably appreciate one last supply run before you go. Both vacation choices are great - why don’t you ask your daughter which she prefers since it’s ‘her’ special time?</p>

<p>I am assuming that my son will have forgotten my name and what I look like by a week into being at UA…</p>

<p>he will, however, have my cell on speed dial for text instructions to send him money.</p>

<p>i think it sounds like a fine idea.</p>

<p>We actually did both NOLA and Gulf Shores when we visited UA over spring break. Both were great. Either is a win, but agree with NRDMOM that your D might know which she prefers. Two completely different experiences.</p>

<p>Sounds great!</p>

<p>How old is your D? Gulf Shores may be better for a teen girl than NOLA. </p>

<p>Your son will probably have some things you’ll need to pick up for him, so the “swing by” will be appreciated.</p>

<p>Teens would definite appreciate the beach more (Gulf Shores isn’t the only choice, Orange Beach, Pensacola Beach or Destin are also good choices.), I believe. New Orleans has plenty of family fun, no doubt, but it’s best enjoyed by a decidedly older crowded.</p>

<p>Thanks, everyone! Daughter is 15 - what is there to do at Gulf Shores (aside from the beach scene.)</p>

<p>I love the idea and agree that it might be wise to query your D about her preferences.</p>

<p>Have any extra room?</p>

<p>[Attractions</a> in Gulf Shores Alabama - Gulf Shores attractions - Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo](<a href=“http://www.gulfshores.com/things-to-do/attractions/]Attractions”>http://www.gulfshores.com/things-to-do/attractions/) depending on when you go, there are concerts at the wharf in orange beach… usually fairly big name performers.</p>

<p>you need to decide if you want a condo or hotel…want to book a condo fairly early… early august is pretty popular down there. if you want more info on condo bookings, companies etc can pm me</p>

<p>My D and I always enjoy a day together at the Foley Outlets when we are in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area! We used to go to the zoo all of the time when the kids were younger. You could get so close to the animals there! </p>

<p>Also, you might check the Blue Angels training schedule for August. Everyone in our family loves that excursion to Pensacola.</p>

<p>I vote for Orange Beach. Packed and ready!</p>

<p>Another suggestion for a side trip vacation either on the way to or on the way home from campus: one of the Robert Trent Jones golf resorts & spas. DH & I have been to Rossbridge in Birmingham. There’s one near Mobile & one up in Muscle Shoals. Golf courses are top notch & the spas are in the top of Marriott’s worldwide spa rankings: [Robert</a> Trent Jones Golf Trail ? Resorts & Spas](<a href=“http://www.rtjgolf.com/resorts/]Robert”>RTJ Golf Trail - RTJ Resort Collection)</p>

<p>It might not be the right thing for you and your D, but I think a lot of the moms & dads might like them ;)</p>

<p>How 'bout we all pack up and head over to Malanai’s house?</p>

<p>Gulfshores made the travel section of today’s Chicago Tribune</p>

<p>[Four</a> great beaches for your summer pleasures - chicagotribune.com](<a href=“Travel News & Articles - Chicago Tribune”>Think beach: 4 great options from coast to coast to coast, with one in between)</p>

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<p>I’m in. I figure putting me up for a week is the least he could do for stealing my “java” joke the other day :-)</p>

<p>We’ve got two guest rooms, each with queen beds. First come, first served. :)</p>

<p>casino, I used to get away with paying you off in macadamia nuts. What is this, inflation?</p>

<p>I’m pretty sure he extended his offer of hospitality on another thread, right?:slight_smile: I’ll bring the sunscreen.</p>

<p>You’ve seen the size of me. Room will be far cheaper than board in this case. So actually I’m doing you a favor by inviting myself into your house for a week :-)</p>