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"Families are increasingly looking for ways to explore the world together, whether it's touring historical sights in Rome or learning about America's Wild West," said travel expert Phillip Gordon. "Traveling as a family is a great way to share passions and interests and connect in more meaningful ways. It's an investment that always has a great return."

While resorts and cruises catering to families are options, more families than ever are taking escorted tour vacations. Here are a few of the reasons parents choose to tour the world with their families:

• All-inclusive prices give families the value they want. When purchasing an escorted tour vacation, parents can pay for transportation, hotels, many meals and visits to major sights up front as part of the vacation package. Tour operators specializing in family travel often offer kids 25 to 50 percent off.

• Escorted tours provide a nice blend of free time and planned activities. When taking a tour, families can match their personal passions with planned exploration.

• Educational journeys are part of the fun. As families encounter famous sights on tour, they don't just drive by; they get to go inside and learn the stories that bring each destination to life.

• Tours can be both kid and parent friendly. Transportation, sightseeing and safe, well-placed hotels are included as part of a tour vacation. The on-site tour director is responsible for making sure everything goes smoothly for each traveler. Some tour operators, such as Globus, also offer VIP access for families with no waiting in lines.

• There's probably no easier way to travel abroad. Taking an international vacation as a family can be an intimidating proposition. On a tour, the majority of planning can be done before the vacation and an English-speaking tour director--someone with deep roots in each destination--will take care of details on the trip.

To learn more about escorted tours created specifically for families, visit www.globusjourneys.com or call (866) 313-2855 toll-free.