TOM PARSONS Finding great deals for kids' vacations

KNIGHT RIDDER NEWSPAPERS
This column's mission: helping you create a kid-friendly vacation that's kind to your budget.
For international travel, go where the exchange rate favors greenbacks. Consider Mexico, Canada and Brazil, where the dollar is up 20 percent this year. Argentina is another great option.
Bishop's Lodge Resort & amp; Spa in Santa Fe has a new complimentary children's day program for ages 4-12. It was formerly $52 per child, per day. Through Sept. 1, the resort's young guests can spend the day at Camp Appaloosa, where they receive breakfast, lunch and a full day of activities such as horseback riding, tennis, fishing, swimming and visits to archaeological ruins. The complimentary day sessions are available for up to two children per family. Contact: (800) 732-2240; www.bishopslodge.com.
Nonprofit travel vendors have two good things going for them. Their prices are low and they are generally labors of love, providing something extra. Minneapolis-based Wilderness Inquiry has rates as low as $375 for its three-night July or August Canoe Adventures in Maine. The price is half for children 16 and younger. The trip includes several hours of guided paddling each day, tent accommodations, safety equipment and meals. Travelers are expected to help with cooking and cleanup. Contact: (800) 728-0719; www.wildernessinquiry.org.
Heading to the Bahamas?
The Sheraton Grand Resort Paradise Island, Bahamas, is offering a Family Summer Fun Package, allowing up to four children to stay in an additional room for half price. The parents' room is $140. Kids younger than 4 receive free meals, and all children kids get a T-shirt, sand pail and shovel, free ice cream and a Family Fun Coupon Book with discounts on food, beverages and hotel amenities. Access www.sheratongrand.com or call (800) 782-9488 and request the FAMILY package.
Choice Hotels (Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion and MainStay Suites) offer rates and a free McDonald's meal under the Gas, Food and Lodging banner. Contact: (877) 424-6423; www.choicehotels.com. The promotion runs through Aug. 31.
XTom Parsons is publisher of Bestfares.com. Contact him at www.bestfares.com/contact.asp.