9. Play miniature golf. You burn more calories sitting rather than lying, standing than sitting, and walking than standing. Although miniature golf won't incinerate fat, it will burn more calories than lying in a hammock. Plus, your children will have a great time. You probably will too.
10. Beware the food obsession. Let's be honest: for many of us, vacations are about eating splurges. That means fresh seafood by the ocean, amazing restaurants in great cities, unlimited buffets at the hotel. This is the stuff of great vacations and you shouldn't deny yourself these pleasures. Instead, limit yourself to one such indulgence a day. Any more and the uniqueness of the splurges fades away. And you'll spend too much time sitting in restaurants – then sitting some more, recuperating from the overindulgence.
11. Explore on foot. Of course, you can rely on your travel agent, travel guides, maps or a tour bus to get you acquainted with a new location. But only by getting out and walking can you truly get the feel for a place. Spend the first few hours at your vacation destination walking around the area. If you're in a city, pick a few restaurants to try to make your reservations in person. Locate the parks, museums and shopping areas.