For one family — Mum, Dad, and their three grown-up children — this year’s holiday looked very different from their usual sun-lounger escapes. They wanted a mix of excitement, adventure, and a chance to share new experiences together. The answer? A two-week road trip through the USA, taking in desert landscapes, world-famous natural wonders, big-city sparkle, and a breezy finish by the Californian coast.
The Journey
Things didn’t get off to the smoothest start. Their flight from London Heathrow to New York JFK was delayed three hours with a technical fault, which meant missing their connection to Phoenix. Instead of arriving late at night, the family landed early the next morning, ready to pick up the car hire and hit the road — making up for lost time as best they could.
First stop: Sedona. Set against dramatic red-rock scenery, this was the perfect introduction to the South Western USA. The family loved the hiking trails and the chance to take in those wide-open views, though they all agreed afterwards they’d have happily spent longer here.
From Sedona they drove on to the Grand Canyon, where they stayed at the historic Bright Angel Lodge. Perched right on the canyon rim, this rustic 1930s lodge is known for its cosy, cabin-style rooms and unbeatable location. The family admitted they weren’t sure what to expect, but were pleasantly surprised by how much they loved it — rustic, yes, but full of charm. With sunrise and sunset just a few steps from their door, it turned out to be one of the most memorable highlights of the whole trip. Again, they wished they’d had more time here.
The Highlights
Las Vegas provided the perfect change of pace. Checking into the Encore at Wynn, they swapped hiking boots for glamour: tower suite rooms, a splash of luxury, and all the dazzling “only in Vegas” madness. From shows to fine dining, this was the ultimate contrast to national park quiet.
To round off the trip, they headed west to California. Their final stop was Marina del Rey, just outside Los Angeles. The family stayed in a charming B&B, where the warm hospitality made them feel at home. While the rooms were a little dated, the excellent value and unbeatable location more than made up for it. They enjoyed some downtime by the marina and beaches, the perfect wind-down after the whirlwind of Vegas.
Why This Holiday Felt Different
This wasn’t the kind of holiday where you sit in one spot for a week. Every stop brought something new: hiking in Sedona, gazing at the Grand Canyon, neon nights in Vegas, and bike rides along the Californian coast. The variety gave everyone something to love, whether it was adventure, relaxation, or a touch of indulgence.
And thanks to careful planning, the whole trip flowed smoothly. Despite the rocky start, flights, car hire, and hotels all linked together seamlessly, giving the family freedom without the stress.
Final Thoughts
By stepping away from their traditional all-inclusive break, this family discovered how much richer a holiday can be when you embrace variety. From desert sunrises to coastal sunsets, from rustic lodges to Vegas sparkle, the American Southwest delivered a family adventure they’ll never forget — and perhaps a new way of travelling for the future.
Thinking of reimagining your family’s all-inclusive next summer? We’ll help you choose the right destination, the right room, and the right rhythm — so you come home feeling like you truly went somewhere.
Call us on 01902 288104, drop us a message, or book an appointment — and let’s plan your kind of different!