Summer is just around the corner. Vacation get-a-ways allow us time to rest, but just because you're on vacation, doesnt' mean life and health have to take a backseat. There are plenty of practical and fun things to explore that will keep you fit and healthy at the same time. It all starts with a little planning.

While on vacation, travel expert and mother, Kendra Thornton recommends starting with accommodations. She says, “Most modern hotels have fitness amenities. I always make sure the hotel we stay in has a well-equipped fitness center. I can usually get a quick workout in early before the kids wake up. Some hotels have running trails on the premises. This provides a fun alternative to running on a treadmill. Vacation seldom accommodates a regular workout, but short bursts of activity will help to burn calories and keep your metabolism high. With family coming to visit us in Chicago in a couple weeks, I suggested staying a hotel downtown. Not only do many of the hotels have great gyms, but also it’s close to all the sites!"

Speaking of taking in the sites, getting in exercise while on vacation doesn’t just have to include inside gyms, elliptical and stationary bikes. There are lots of ways to be active that the whole family can enjoy. Hotels and resort may offer tennis courts, golf courses or even my husband’s newest passion—Pickleball.

Hiking doesn’t just include mountains, wilderness, forest, and caves. As Kendra suggests, trails can be a great alternative for running as well as taking a leisurely walk.

One of my favorite places to vacation is Bald Head Island, NC. This quaint little get away, with it’s beaches and swimming pools offers, (along with rest, relaxation and sun) lots of fun and adventure. This island may run on turtle time, but there is plenty of fun to keep you going. There are trails for leisurely hikes through the maritime forest. My favorite is Bald Head Island's Turtle Walks, offered as part of their loggerhead sea turtle conservatory program. From salt marshes to ocean waves, these coastal island waterways lend themselves to sailing, surfing, fishing, boating, canoeing, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

There's more to do on the beach beside lay in the sun. Don’t forget to take along a beach ball, a Frisbee or even a kite. A croquet set, badminton or volleyball will be perfect for making news friends on the sandy white beaches. Building sand castles is an enjoyable venture that can burn a few calories. And of course, one of my favorite pastimes on any beach hike includes hunting for sea shells. If you forgot to pack the fun, there's no excuse, there are always rentals.

Whether you're making a trip to the city or a quaint little town, you can enjoy the great outdoors while exploring new places. Small towns offer bicycle rentals or even horseback riding opportunities. How about visiting a zoo or amusement park. Even on a rainy day the fun doesn’t have to stop. How about strolling through museums or find a bowling alley or take in some rock climbing.

Vacations can be opportunities to explore new places and fun activities—keeping you fit physically, socially, and mentally. Yes, you can. You have many more miles to go!

For more tips on travel follow Kendra on Twitter (@KendraThornton).