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Posts Tagged ‘kids’
Tuesday, January 10th, 2012
Parenting at home can be tough enough. Add a messed up sleep schedule, oodles of time spent together in cramped spaces, time change crankiness, and judgemental onlookers — and travel with children might seem like a foul idea at best and a recipe for mania at worst. But it’s not all bad, right?! This World Tour of the Web focuses on the highs and lows of parenting in general, and parenting while traveling in particular.
What Is the Point of Having Kids if Your Life Ends When Theirs Begins?
by Petula Dvorak, The Washington Post
This article poses the question many of us parents are not even willing to admit we’ve pondered: if you had to do it all over again, would you have kids? The author gives us reasons aplenty to avoid parenthood, saying, “Besides those hateful shelf elves, there is Barney and endless holiday concerts of squawking clarinets and painful parent-teacher conferences and potty training and driver’s permits and orthodontist bills and bath salts that get your tween high and the recession that won’t end and a bazillion other reasons not to have kids.”
On the pro-parenting side, one father interviewed for the article says, “What else would I be doing that means anything? You just change your priorities. And now, she’s my priority.” So, what say you…is the worry, cost, inconvenience and annoyance worth the precious yet rare joy-filled moments of parenting?
Why Travel with Kids and Family Travel Are Important to Me
by Corinne McDermott, Have Baby Will Travel
This story was inspired by the recent death of the author’s father. Corinne discusses how her parents instilled in her a love of travel as a child and how that now translates into her love of travel as a mother with her children. She says, “seeing the world at a young age broadens the mind, and will help my children grow into the kind of tolerant, kind and open minded adults I hope they will become.”
Highs and Lows of Traveling with a Tween and a Teen
by Michelle Duffy, WanderMom
Worried your travels have to stop once your children enter their tween and teen years? This mom breaks down the pros and cons of traveling with a 10-year-old and a 14-year-old in this helpful blog post.
9 Life Lessons Children Learn from Travel
by Theodora Sutcliffe, Travels with a Nine Year Old
Traveling can be not only both stressful and fun, but also it is educational. Theodora says, “After almost two years on the road, I have to say that if I’d known how much children learn from travel, I’d have started travelling sooner.”
You Can Take a Teen to the Lake, But You Can’t Make Her Swim
by Lisa Goodmurphy, Gone with the Family
A mom struggles with keeping the peace while on family vacation with her teenage daughter. To allow the teen to to text all day, or to force the teen to have fun family-style, that is the question!
Raising Kids Who Travel Well
by Jessica Bowers, Suitcases and Sippycups
Here are some handy tips for things you can do at home to help your children adjust well when traveling.
2011 Lesson #2 – Don’t Carpe Diem
by Glennon Melton, Momastery
Even though I have been known to encourage others (and myself) to seize the day, I understand and appreciate Glennon’s suggestion that, as parents, we don’t carpe diem after all. She says, “This CARPE DIEM message makes me paranoid and panicky. Especially during this phase of my life – while I’m raising young kids. Being told, in a million different ways to CARPE DIEM makes me worry that if I’m not in a constant state of intense gratitude and ecstasy, I’m doing something wrong.”
This humorous post on the ups and downs of parenting had me busting out in laughter, especially when I read the part about what she’ll say to moms struggling to contain their wild children when she’s a nostalgic old lady: “It’s helluva hard, isn’t it? You’re a good mom, I can tell. And I like your kids, especially that one peeing in the corner. She’s my favorite. Carry on, warrior. Six hours till bedtime.”
Why We Travel with Children
by Colleen Lanin, Travel Mamas
I couldn’t help but chime in on this one. This is the first story ever posted on Travel Mamas when the site launched in 2009. This post explains why, despite all of the mess, heartbreak, and temper tantrums…I am pro-parenting and pro-parenting-while-traveling.
Your Turn!
Got a great story that deals with the highs and lows of parenting in general or parenting while traveling? Share it using the Linky below. I will read every linked story and make a comment on your site. (Enter the title of the story as “Your Name” and include http:// in the web address.) You don’t have to link back to Travel Mamas from your site. Just, ya know, link up for fun!
Come back every Wednesday for a new World Tour of the Web!
Photo by kakisky. (Creative Commons)
Tags: blog, children, kids, parenting, teens, travel, tweens
Posted in World Tour of the Web | 5 Comments »
Monday, December 19th, 2011
Traveling is often a mixture of pleasure and pain. For families with young children, the experience can be quite trying. Several of the world’s airports have recognized the challenges of flying with children and have taken steps to make traveling through their facilities a much more enjoyable experience. Here are five airports that are particularly good destinations or layovers for both parents and kids.
O’Hare International Airport – Chicago, USA
Located in the heart of the American Midwest, flight delays due to inclement weather are commonplace at O’Hare. As any parent knows, the waiting time for a flight can tax a child’s patience even when everything is running on time. There are diverse ways to keep kids entertained at O’Hare when the wait becomes much longer than expected. The Chicago Children’s Museum has set up numerous interactive exhibits including “Children on the Fly.” It offers children the opportunity to learn about airport operations with a fantasy helicopter to refuel, cargo plane to load and unload, and a miniature air traffic control tower. There are also plenty of play areas where kids can zip down slides or play with LEGO bricks.
Heathrow International Airport – London, England
Getting to and from the Heathrow airport is made much easier by taking the train. Heathrow has direct train routes to and from London that leave and arrive every 15 minutes. There are also bus and coach routes from areas outside London that go directly to the airport, saving families from the added stress of transferring their luggage and children multiple times before they can even check-in for their flights.
Once at the airport, waiting for your flight to board is made less stressful thanks to the numerous arcades and play areas for younger children. Families with very young children benefit from the many changing and feeding areas located throughout each terminal.
Kuala Lampur International Airport – Kuala Lampur, Malaysia
Kuala Lampur International is a relatively new airport that focused from the beginning on making travel more enjoyable for adults and kids alike. The airport is packed with casual restaurants and arcades. The Plaza Premium Lounge is an especially nice area to wait for a flight. Children under age 6 can enter free of charge while older kids pay a small fee that covers the entire day, should you be on an extended layover or flight delay. The lounge offers free Internet access, television, showers, nap areas and more.
Schiphol Airport – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Schiphol is one of the most relaxing airports you could ever hope to visit. The walls are adorned with original paintings by Dutch masters. The airport also features a library where you can read books in more than 25 different languages, watch films and TV shows, or listen to music. Most of these electronic amenities can be downloaded free, so you can finish what you were watching or listening to on your flight. The Kids Forest is an indoor playground with plenty of climbing equipment, slides and other ways for kids to release their energy. Mothers will love the Babycare Lounge where the cribs all have fresh linens and a comfortable changing and feeding area.
Orlando International – Orlando, USA
With Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando and Sea World, Orlando is one of the most popular destinations for families in the world. The airport is designed to keep kids comfortable and entertained. Plenty of open space, indoor trees, and aquariums adorn the concourses. The life-size sculptures of Disney characters scattered about will also keep their imaginations engaged. The seating areas are designed to make eating and relaxing much more pleasurable for families.
Many parents used to dread booking airline tickets for their families because of the lack of activities for the kids at check-in and during the flight. Family-friendly airports like these make it easier for you to start enjoying your vacation as soon as you get to the airport.
Photo by xpistwv. (Creative Commons)
What is your favorite (or least favorite) airport for families traveling with children? Tell us in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Do You Care About Keeping Your Child Safe when Flying?
• How to Survive Meltdowns & Meanies when Flying with Children
• The Bright Side of Flying with Kids
• Tips for Flying Standby & Handling Flight Delays with Kids
A Note from The Travel Mama: This post is sponsored by Cheapflights.co.uk. Learn more about post sponsorship opportunities.
Tags: airplane, airports, children, family, Heathrow, kids, Kuala Lampur, O'Hare, orlando, parents, Schiphol
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 7 Comments »
Friday, December 16th, 2011
Nature and simple pleasures are the focus of Garden of Lights, as are all things at the San Diego Botanic Garden. I was expecting twinkling lights, holiday treats, live music, and maybe a craft project or two…which is exactly what I found. But somehow, it exceeded my expectations.
Over 100,000 lights make San Diego Botanic Garden sparkle during the holidays
Twinkling Lights
Each December over 100,000 lights make the already beautiful San Diego Botanic Garden sparkle. What is it about a bunch of Christmas lights that get us so excited? It’s the 21st century, yet there is something undeniably magical about seeing a bunch of lights strung up for the holidays. As a San Diego Botanic Garden member, I’ve visited these grounds more times than I can count but the garden had a special feel during our recent first Garden of Lights visit.
Keep warm by roasting marshmallows at Garden of Lights
Special Treats
Our first stop? The Coffee Hut for cozy servings of hot cider. Also available for purchase: hot cocoa, coffee, and other beverages and snacks like the cold apple juice and bag of Cheetos my three-year-old requested. (I obliged, it is the holidays after all!)
If you’re looking for something more substantial, you can buy fast Mexican food from El Pollo Loco at the Lawn House Garden. If you’d like an adult beverage, the Lawn House is the place to be. Go here to purchase little cups of mulled wine. I’d never had mulled wine before and gave it a shot; it was okay but tasted medicinal after my cinnamon-laced apple cider. There are tables surrounded with heat lamps in this area as well.
For the best treat of all, look for the firepit to roast marshmallows on the Main Gazebo Lawn. For $3 you can purchase s’mores packs with graham crackers and chocolate but the marshmallows are free. There’s something so neighborly and warm about gathering around a roaring fire to toast up some sugary white puffs.
The River Rim Children’s Choir sang Christmas carols the night of our visit
Live Music
While spinning your marshmallow on a wooden skewer, you will be serenaded by the sounds of some live holiday music. Each night a different group performs, offering up holiday Cuban, Klezmer, Celtic music, and more.
Santa Claus
What Christmastime event would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus? Photos with the jolly old elf (on the Main Gazebo Lawn) are just $3 apiece at this event.
My daughter crafting a puppy ornament
Easy Crafts
At no extra charge, sweet volunteers patiently assist children in making crafts like puppy or kitty ornaments and candycane pencils in the Ecke Building. It costs an extra buck to make a spin-art, if you’re so inclined.
Over 50 Nutcrackers on display
Nutcracker Collection
While kids create their crafts, parents can take a peek at a collection of over 50 Nutcrackers on display in the Ecke Building. (Simple pleasures, people!)
Kids from SoCal and beyond get a kick out of sledding on real snow at this San Diego event
Real Snow
The piece de resistence for beach-going San Diegans like my children is the SNOW in the Eucalyptus Grove. There’s a wee area where kids can waddle around and lob snowballs at their parents. If you’ve got gloves or mittens, bring ‘em! While the air temperature may not be too cold, the snow will chill children’s hands. There’s even a small hill for sledding, a joyous treat for us Southern California folks!
There is nothing over-the-top at Garden of Lights. It’s pure, simple holiday fun. And I purely, simply love it.
Garden of Lights at San Diego Botanic Garden admission: members $6; non-members: adults $12; seniors, active military, and students $8. All children ages 3-12, $4. Most activities are free, besides those for which a cost is listed above.
What is your favorite simple holiday event? Let us know in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Christmas Festivities in San Diego at Helen Woodward Animal Center
• Fall Beauty at Wolfe’s Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine
• Holidays in Phoenix at Zoolights
• San Diego Botanic Garden – An Enchanting Place for Children
A Note from The Travel Mama: My family and I are annual members of the San Diego Botanic Garden but we received complimentary media passes to experience the Garden of Lights.
Tags: children, Christmas, Garden of Lights, holiday, kids, Sam Diego Botanic Garden, snow, Southern California
Posted in Family Vacations | 5 Comments »
Tuesday, December 13th, 2011
Most of the stories on this site deal with how to keep the kids or the mama happy while traveling. But what about dear ol’ dad? Here are some tips for keeping a Travel Daddy content while on family vacation.
Keep dad happy with a day off to play golf while on family vacation (Photo of Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, copyright www.GolfNow.com)
Set Expectations
Talk about what everyone expects to get out of your family vacation BEFORE leaving home. If the kids think the trip will be non-stop amusement park rides and cotton candy, mom thinks every day will be filled with visiting museums and historical monuments, and dad thinks he will spend each day listening to the tide roll in while he sips a cold beer — everyone is going to be disappointed. Instead, sit down with a calendar and come up with a rough schedule of each day’s activities so everyone’s needs are met and each member of the family knows what to expect.
Before our first vacation as new parents, as a stay-at-home-mom I felt relaxed and relieved to have another set of hands to help with diaper changes, feedings, and naps. My husband, however, felt stressed out. He envisioned a vacation filled with relaxation, relaxation, and more relaxation. If traveling with a new dad, be sure to discuss childcare duties before leaving home.
Don’t Over Schedule
Children and adults alike can become over-stimulated and grumpy if every day is too jam-packed with activities. Schedule some down-time during your stay to recharge the kids’ (and dad’s!) batteries. Take turns playing with the kids in the ocean so each parent gets a chance to read a book or take a nap on the beach. Unwind after meals with a leisurely walk. And don’t make dad shop too much. With rare exception, most men find constant souvenir-shopping and gallery-perusing exhausting.
Allow Dad a Free Day
Parents love their children and want to spend quality time with them splashing in the pool, exploring the sites, riding the roller coasters, and making lasting memories while on vacation. There is, however, such thing as TOO much together-time. Keep dad happy by not just allowing, but encouraging him to take a free day during your trip. On your beach vacation, this could mean taking a surf lesson in Oahu, booking a helicopter tour of Kauai, or playing a round of golf on one of the many golf courses in Hawaii. A little reprieve from the kiddos makes for a happier dad.
Go On a Date
Plan a date one night during your vacation to allow for some couple-time. Hire a sitter and head out for a romantic dinner and drinks. Or, leave your children in the resort kids’ camp and escape for a daytime date. Hit the spa for a couple’s massage or if you both like to golf, do a search to find discount golf courses so you can play 18 holes while staying within your vacation budget.
Book More Than One Room
If at all possible, book more than one room via a suite, connecting rooms, a vacation rental, or a home exchange. Dads with too little sleep are cranky dads. And no man’s vacation is complete without a little privacy (ahem!) after bedtime.
Do you have any additional tips for keeping dads happy while on vacation? Tell us in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Beach Day in Zihuatanejo, Mexico
• Disney’s Goal: Hawaii’s Greatest Hotel Pool
• Specials for Military & First Responders at JW Marriott San Antonio
• 10 Best Beach Hotels for Kids
A Note from The Travel Mama: This post is sponsored by www.GolfNow.com.
Tags: dad, discount, family vacation, golf, hawaii, kids
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 4 Comments »
Sunday, November 6th, 2011
Residence Inn is the just the kind of place vacationing families want to stay, whether during the holiday season, spring break, summer, or beyond. In-room kitchens, spacious suites, and convenient touches make this Marriott brand a natural choice for parents traveling with kids. Read on to find out how to win a $300 Residence Inn by Marriott gift card from this family-friendly hotel brand at any of its over 600 locations in the U.S., Canada, Costa Rica, and Germany.
Families can dine in fully-equipped en-suite kitchens at Residence Inn by Marriott (Photo from the Residence Inn Facebook page)
Family-friendly touches
Originally developed as a place for business travelers to enjoy the conveniences of home while away for extended periods, Residence Inn has discovered that families seek the same types of extras when traveling.
Larger studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites give families room to spread out.
Fully-equipped in-room kitchens include a full-sized refrigerator, stove, microwave, and coffee maker for in-room snacks and meals.
Get this: Residence Inn will deliver groceries to your room at no charge! Just give them the list and they do the rest.
Outdoor barbecue area at Residence Inn Scottsdale Paradise Valley (Photo from the Residence Inn website)
You can even grill out during your stay! Sometimes dining out with your kids causes more fuss than fun. At Residence Inn, you can grab some burgers and buns and have a family barbecue using their outdoor grills instead.
Don’t want to cook while on vacation? Let Residence Inn make you a free hot daily breakfast. There are also complimentary evening socials where you can grab some appetizers to nosh a drinkie or two.
Most locations offers a pool for the kids plus a whirlpool spa to ease away a Travel Mama’s or Travel Daddy’s tension.
A resort-like pool at Residence Inn Orlando SeaWorld/International Center (Photo from the Residence Inn website)
Worried about fitting into your bathing suit after all that vacation eating? Work out at their modern fitness centers.
On-site washers and dryers (plus same-day drycleaning) make keeping up with all those loads of family laundry a snap while on the go.
A 24-hour in-lobby market makes it easy to pick up a forgotten item (like a toothbrush or medication) or grab a quick snack or drink (including wine and beer for after the kiddies go to sleep!).
Some locations even offer a playground with a climbing structure and slides!
The playground at Residence Inn by Marriott Anaheim Maingate (Photo from the Residence Inn website)
With discounts for longer stays, free Internet access, and the free breakfasts and evening socials…Residence Inn makes an affordable choice for families.
I’m ready to move in! How about you?
Enter to win!
Leave a comment below stating which of the family-friendly touches listed above would improve your vacation. Generic comments like “I want to win” will be disqualified.
Bonus entry! Take a look at the 600+ Residence Inn by Marriott locations and let us know which hotel appeals to you most in the comments below.
You can enter using each method once per day during the contest period, for a total of two daily entries. Change your entries up, or choose the same family-friendly amenity/location each time. It’s up to you!
Residence Inn by Marriott will provide a $300 gift card to one lucky Travel Mamas reader. Open to U.S. residents only. This contest ends on Sunday, November 20 at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time. A winner will be chosen at random using Random.org. The winner will be notified via email. If the prize is not claimed within 48 hours, another winner will be selected. THIS CONTEST HAS CLOSED. Check back soon to find out who won!
GiftCards may be used at participating Residence Inn® by Marriott locations. Card carries no value until activated. Card is a prepaid card, not a credit card or debit card, and is the property of and issued by MI Fulfillment Services, LLC. There is no expiration date for card. Card is not redeemable for cash, in any amount except when otherwise required by applicable law. Card becomes inactive upon use of all card value. Card may not be used to secure or confirm a reservation. Each transaction will be debited against card balance, if transaction exceeds balance, user must pay the difference. Lost, stolen or damaged cards will be replaced only if previously registered. Value of replaced card will equal balance on card at the time it was reported lost, stolen or damaged. To check card balance, go to gifts.marriott.com or call 800.442.6132. Account balance information outside the U.S. and Canada: Use the AT&T® access number for the country code you are calling in conjunction with 800.442.6132.For questions and participating hotels, please contact the Customer Service Team at (801) 468-4167 or via email at gifts@marriott.com. Contact us: (801) 468-4167 – Monday–Friday: 9 am–7pm EST / Saturday: 10 am–4:30pm EST.
For updates, giveaways and specials, “like” Residence Inn on Facebook or follow @MarriottIntl on Twitter.
Visit the Residence Inn by Marriott website and book your vacation now!
Want to be notified of other giveaways and happenings on TravelMamas.com? Sign up for the Travel Mamas e-newsletter now! Mailings are typically sent out once per month.
You might also like:
• A Mommy-Daughter Vacation in Puerto Rico
• Cancun Should Be on Your Bucket List
• Santa Monica with Kids
• Win $100 from JetSetBabies to Make Your Travels Easier
A note from The Travel Mama: Residence Inn by Marriott is sponsoring this giveaway. Read my review of the Residence Inn San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter, where I stayed as part of a blogger visit to experience what this brand has to offer.
Tags: families, giveaway, kids, marriott, residence inn, suites
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Hotel Reviews | 1,189 Comments »
Thursday, November 3rd, 2011
When staying in a hotel with kids, there are some simple things you can do to make your family vacation as fun and stress-free as possible. That starts, of course, with finding the right hotel for your family. Once you check in, set up your room for vacation success.
Above is an en-suite kitchen at the Residence Inn by Marriott Beverly Hills, one of over 135,000 hotels listed on Hotels.com (Photo from Hotels.com)
What to look for in a family-friendly hotel:
Try to book a suite whenever possible to have more space to spread out and to allow for better sleep for all members of the family. A well-rested family is a happy family.
Look for a hotel with included breakfast. This saves precious vacation money and time, and it’s a tasty way to start your day.
An en-suite kitchen or at least an in-room refrigerator is another hotel bonus. If breakfast isn’t included, you can stock up on yogurts and juice for a morning meal. It’s also handy for keeping snacks and sodas cool for an afternoon treat. A fridge can be a lifesaver for parents traveling with a baby for keeping formula or breast milk chilled.
A fabulous pool makes a hotel stay all that more special, especially for children. Fountains and waterslides for the kids and swim-up bar for mom and dad? Yes, please!
With profiles of over 135,000 hotels in more than 60 countries, Hotels.com makes finding a hotel easy. Choose your location and travel dates, then play around with a bunch of options to find the best hotel for your family. You can specify amenities (like free breakfast, a pool, or a gym) as well as type of hotel (family-friendly: check!). Then narrow down your search by price, star ratings, and guest ratings. You can even view photos and read past guests’ reviews before making your decision.
Discover family-friendly hotels and resorts from around the world, like the Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida (Photo from Hotels.com)
Tips for setting up your hotel room for vacation success:
After my family arrives at a hotel, my husband and I unpack and set up the room right away. Before I had kids I was a drop-my-bags-and-go kind of a gal. Nowadays, I know that an organized room makes for a more enjoyable vacation.
Set up the room into four areas: dressing, playing, dining, and diapering (if you still have a non-potty-trained tyke).
Rather than digging through suitcases every day, set up a dressing area. Put all clothing into drawers or hang items in the closet for easy retrieval and to keep outfits looking fresh. Keep dirty clothes off the floor by tucking them into a plastic bag for washing later.
For a playing space, put all toys and children’s books in one area. Your kids will know where to find them, and more importantly, where to return them when playtime is over. Toys strewn all about can cause accidental falls and create a chaotic environment to return to after a long day of site-seeing.
If you don’t have a kitchen, create a dining space, preferably on a table near a sink. Stack up all bottles, sippy cups, and snacks here.
For families in the diapering phase, choose a spot to take care of this task. Lay down a hotel towel and place a changing pad over that. Place a stack of diapers and a box of wipes within arm’s reach.
Now it’s your turn! What are your tips for staying in hotels with kids?
Go to the Hotels.com Facebook page and share your tips there!
You might also like:
• Keeping Up with Laundry While Traveling With Kids
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort: A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time
• 10 Best Kid-Friendly Hotel Pools in the USA
• Tips for Family Ski Trips from a Former Scaredy Cat Skier
A Note from The Travel Mama: I received compensation to write this post. The content and tips are my own. I would never recommend something I don’t actually like. In fact, I’ve been recommending Hotels.com on Travel Mamas for years without any payment.
Tags: babies, children, family, hotel, hotels.com, kids, pool
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Travel Tips | 4 Comments »
Thursday, October 27th, 2011
Ever heard of Carlsbad? It’s probably not the first place that pops to mind when you think of a California vacation…but maybe it should be. Often overlooked in favor of its popular neighbor, San Diego, Carlsbad has plenty of fun for families. This laidback town is just 36 miles north of the San Diego International Airport and less than an hour’s drive south from Orange County’s Irvine, making it an easy destination for those hailing from Los Angeles, Phoenix, and beyond. Here are some of the best attractions, restaurants, and accommodations Carlsbad has to offer families.
The Carlsbad Seawall beach walkway
Beaches, Beaches, Beaches!
Carlsbad is home to seven miles of beaches, where families can splash, swim, build sand castles, and maybe even learn to surf. If you’d rather just go for a seaside stroll, the Carlsbad Seawall stretches for about a mile along Carlsbad Blvd, with several beach access points along the way.
Carlsbad Lagoon
For some wave-free water fun, head to the Carlsbad Lagoon to rent stand-up paddle boards, canoes, jet skis, speed boats, and more. Float past luxury waterfront homes and into an inlet lined with condos and their docked boats.
Carlsbad Flower Fields
Carlsbad Flower Fields
Every spring families pose for pretty pictures amongst row upon row of brightly colored ranunculas at the Carlsbad Flower Fields. Gem-mining, free concerts, tractor-pulled wagon rides, and a maze made of sweet peas add to the fun.
Museum of Making Music
Discover the history of musical instruments from the 1890s to today at the Museum of Making Music. This attraction features over 500 instruments. Push the plentiful exhibit buttons to hear what the instruments sound like in the hands of masters. The best part is an interactive room where you can make your own music using an electric piano, drums, guitars, and more.
Carlsbad Premium Outlets
With over 90 stores to visit, save some time in your schedule and money in your vacation budget for trip to the Carlsbad Premium Outlets. Choose from favorites like Banana Republic Factory Store, Kenneth Cole, Coach, and Barney’s New York Outlet plus stores that cater to kids like Baby Gap Outlet, Gymboree Outlet, and Carter’s.
The Dragon roller coaster at LEGOLAND California
LEGOLAND California
Carlsbad is probably most well-known as the home of LEGOLAND California. This amusement park for families with children ages 2-12 offers mellow roller coasters, interactive rides, colorful play areas, and other fun for kids. The park’s centerpiece, Miniland USA, is filled with recreations of famous U.S. landmarks like the Las Vegas Strip and the Empire State Building as well as Star Wars scenes, all formed entirely from LEGO bricks.
Located inside LEGOLAND California, the LEGOLAND Water Park is a must-do if visiting during the warmth of summer. The whole family can float down the Build-A-Raft River, while stacking huge foam LEGO bricks on their inner-tubes. There are special splash areas with fountains and mini waterslides just for toddlers and young children while big kids and grown-ups can zip down four giant swirling slides.
SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium
Located next door to LEGOLAND California, SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium is a fabulous attraction in its own right. Add SEALIFE Aquarium to your LEGOLAND visit by purchasing a park hopper, or purchase an entrance ticket just for the aquarium. Innovative pop-up underwater viewing stations give kids a chance to see what the fishies see. Make it a learning adventure by encouraging children to play the Quiz Trail, a scavenger hunt of sorts that teaches about marine life while children make their way through the aquarium’s exhibits.
Pop-up bubble at SEA LIFE Aquarium
Family Dining
Just above the flower fields, you’ll find the Karl Strauss Brewing Company. Each year this family-friendly restaurant and brewery creates 30 beers, including seasonal and and specialty brews. Stop in for lunch or dinner or just to get a side of their to-die-for fries with a nice, cold brew (or a lemonade for the kiddies).
Another dining option is Pizza Port with arguably the best pizza in San Diego County, a handful of video games for kids, and plenty of beers on tap for grown-ups.
If your kids dig Mexican food, there are a couple of tasty options for families. Rena Crawford-Payne, a Carlsbad resident and mom, recommends Norte because, “they have a nice outdoor patio and you don’t have to worry about the kids being too loud or making a big mess.”
Los Olas is the Carlsbad Mexican restaurant of choice for Aimee Steckowski, a mom and author of the FancyLittleThings.com blog. She says, “They have wonderful food choices for both adults and children. Their food smells and tastes wonderful — true authentic Mexican food served in big portions for great prices.”
Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach pool
Kid-Friendly Accommodations
The Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach makes a wonderful choice for families. This particular Hilton Garden Inn ranks highly among mid-range hotels year after year, not only for its gorgeous Southern California location across from the beach, but also for its above-and-beyond customer service. Complimentary shuttles cart guests anywhere within a five-mile radius of the hotel. During the summer, child guests are greeted with a stuffed sea animal like a dolphin or seal. In warmer months, guests can munch popcorn and cookies while watching family-friendly Movies on the Lawn on an inflatable screen. They even pass out free Otterpops to cool down guests at the hotel pool!
You could win a two-night stay at ANY Hilton Garden Inn in the world (including the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach). Enter the Hilton Garden Inn Vacation Wishes Giveaway now!
What is your favorite Carlsbad attraction or restaurant? Tell us in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Halloween Fun for Families at LEGOLAND California
• Hilton Garden Inn Vacation Wishes Giveaway
• 7 Reasons to Visit LEGOLAND Florida
• Restaurants, Drinks & Sweets in Freeport, Maine
A Note from The Travel Mama: I received a complimentary stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach. As a travel writer, I have also received media discounts/passes from a few of the other attractions mentioned above.
Tags: beach, California, Carlsbad, Carlsbad Flower Fields, carlsbad lagoon, children, families, Hilton Garden Inn, kids, legoland, museum of making music, sea life aquarium
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews | 4 Comments »
Monday, October 24th, 2011
If you are a single parent, you know that even under normal, everyday circumstances single parenting comes with special challenges. I’ve had friends familiar with my daily routine as a single mom refer to my typical day as an athletic undertaking. If a regular day is an athletic event, traveling alone with children is an Olympic event. It’s not always easy, but it is possible to enjoy traveling with children alone! Here are my travel tips for single parents.
Pick the Right Mode of Transportation
Selecting the right mode of transportation is an important factor in planning a vacation as a single parent. One option is to take a road trip with kids. Road trips provide the most control over pitstops and allow you to pack more luggage. Road trips, however, can be stressful in terms of keeping sibling fights to a minimum and child entertainment to a maximum, especially when the only adult in the car is busy driving. For those of you road trippers who have three young kids, I recommend purchasing a sunshine kids radian convertible car seat because you can squeeze a trio of these across a normal car’s backseat.
On several trips with my children, I’ve chosen to fly because of the distances involved and the shorter travel time. Check with the airline to see if early boarding is permitted for passengers traveling alone with children; many airlines do.
When possible, my kids and I often take the train. It takes a bit longer, but train travel offers more opportunity for mobility during the trip so my kids can work off some of their limitless energy while in transit.
Pack Wisely
It can be difficult to manage children alone while lugging a bunch of baggage. One suitcase, one carry-on, and one stroller is plenty for a single person to tote when traveling by train or plane. If you’re sure of porter service at all interim and final stops, you may be safe in bringing more luggage. If not, consider alternatives like ordering baby gear (like strollers, cribs and supplies) to be delivered to your destination.
For children age 5 and older, purchase kid-sized rolling suitcases so they can pull their own bags. Talk up the importance of this responsibility and get their buy-in by bringing the kids to the store to help pick out their suitcases.
Choose Kid-Friendly Accommodations
The degree to which you will have to manage your children depends on your vacation destination and how well you researched the amenities available. If you will be traveling to visit family or friends, your need for constant vigilance is usually over once you arrive because the extra adults will likely help with childcare demands.
If staying at a hotel, it’s important that you feel comfortable as a single parent in the company of the other guests. Some people vacation to get away from children so you’ll be happiest in a family-friendly locale. You may want to seek out hotels with kids’ camps or in-room babysitting so you can get a reprieve from childcare duties during your stay. Ask your travel agent what tours or vacation resorts have programs that cater to single parents or check with your local Parents Without Partners organization for suggestions.
Ask for Help
Don’t be afraid to ask strangers to snap family photos unless you want to end up with a photo album without any pictures of you. Most people, especially those at the grandparent stage, are delighted to take photos of young families.
Be prepared to tip more than you would if you were traveling without children. You may need to tip porters at the airport, bellman at the hotel, or give larger tips to restaurant servers for extra service for your brood.
Splurge a Little
Splurge on room service a couple of times during your stay. The kids will love it and dining-in causes less hassle after a long day of play.
Carve out some alone time while away too. Get a well-deserved massage while your children are busy at the hotel kids’ camp or you could simply sip a tropical beverage on the balcony after the kids are in bed for the night. After all, vacations are supposed to be dedicated to relaxing and recharging, and no one needs that boost more than single parents!
Laura Cecil is a mom of three and the editor of www.Livesnet.com, a place to help parents to select the right baby products and a space to share parenting stories and challenges. Connect with Livesnet.com on Facebook.
What are your tips for traveling with children? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Photo by: Gretta Vosper (morgueFile Creative Commons)
Tags: children, kids, single mom, single parent, travel, traveling alone with children, vacation
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 8 Comments »
Saturday, October 15th, 2011
Halloween was magical when I was a kid. I got to dress up like a pretty pink ballerina. I was allowed to take candy from strangers. After a parental perusal for razor blades, I would sort my sugary bounty into categories: chocolate, suckers, gum and other. With a mouthful of nougat, the trading began. My big brother, master of persuasion, would convince me to hand over two mini Snickers for a measly Bazooka Joe. I went to bed with a distended belly, sticky hands, and a smile.
Then came the confusing teen years when I continued trick-or-treating “to be ironic” and accepted a beer from the young dudes at one house. In college there was the inevitable scramble to find a last-minute party and corresponding last-minute homemade Marsha-from-Brady-Bunch-get-up. By my twenties, Halloween had become a source of stress and a competition to find the adequately sexy (yet not slutty) costume.
With the birth of my first child, the wonder and innocence of a childhood Halloween returned. My family makes the most of this holiday with trips to Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland, Brick-or-Treat Nights at LEGOLAND California, and our local pumpkin patch and Halloween carnival. This World Tour of the Web is a collection of all things fun and festive for Halloween this year.
Top 9 Ridiculously Funny Halloween Costumes for Baby - Deals 4 Dummies
Still debating how to dress up your baby for Halloween? How about as a pine tree air freshener or baby Elvis? These will make you chuckle…or cringe…or both.
Photo Essay: Incredible Pictures of Pumpkin Patches – Sharing Travel Experiences
Take a peek at the world’s largest pumpkin patch, around-the-world patches, and even a glass pumpkin patch in this gorgeous post celebrating all photos pumpkin.
Dinner in a Pumpkin – Macaroni Kid
Kids will be happy to eat this healthy stew served in its jack-o-lantern cooking container. Boo apetit!
Halloween Jokes for Kids – Coupons are Great
What does a bird say on Halloween? Trick-or-tweet. Sweet jokes like these are simple enough for little ones to remember and re-tell (over and over and over!).
10 Easy-to-Make Halloween Cupcakes - Atlanta with Kid
From mummy cupcakes made from marshmallows to spider cupcakes made with pretzel sticks for legs, a chocolate truffle body and cinnamon candy red eyes, these treats look like a fun way to get in the Halloween spirit. These would make a monstrous treat at a Halloween party.
You might also like:
• Halloween Fun at LEGOLAND California
• Halloween Hotel Packages for Families
• Halloween with a Disney Twist
• World Tour of the Web – Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.
Tags: babies, children, costumes, cupcakes, Halloween, jokes, kids, pumpkin, recipe
Posted in Mixed Baggage, World Tour of the Web | 1 Comment »
Sunday, October 2nd, 2011
Dying to find something fun and maybe a little spooky to do with your family this October? Book one of these hotel packages to make this Halloween season one to remember!
Jack-o-lanterns at The Ritz-Carlton (Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton)
Have a Ritz-y Halloween
The Great Pumpkin Weekends Package at the Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Georgia includes an overnight stay, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, nighttime ghost stories in the forest around a campfire, and a $25 resort credit per night. (Every Saturday in October; rates start at $305.) Ritz-Carlton also offers a kid-friendly Cupcake Tea and Costume Party in Palm Beach, California with Great Pumpkin and Vampire’s Blood Red Velvet Cupcakes, a costume contest, face-painting, and magic tricks . ($50 for adults; $35 for children.) Midwesterners can attend the Trick or Tea at the Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland benefitting the local Coats for Kids organization with hot apple cider for the kids and and tea (or cocktails!) for mom and dad. The lobby will be transformed into a Halloween fantasyland where kids can decorate pumpkins and trick-or-treat for goodies.
Spooky Suite at a Loews Hotel (Photo courtesy of Loews Hotels)
Don a Costume at Loews
Too busy traveling to purchase Halloween costumes? Check into a Spooky Suite at any of 13 Loews Hotels in the U.S., where a Party City Costume Concierge will assist in styling adults, children, and even pets with Halloween duds from exclusive Costume Catalog. Guests can Rest in Peace in a Halloween-themed suite and dig into a loot bag filled with tricks and treats. (October 25-31; rates start at $207.)
Hogwarts Halloween at Ireland’s Ashford Castle (Photo courtesy of the Ashford Castle)
Celebrate Harry-Potter-Style in Ireland
Families staying at Ireland’s historic Ashford Castle are in for a Hogwarts Halloween celebration where Harry Potter’s magical world will come to life. The castle’s secret rooms, hidden alcoves, and mystical surroundings of secluded woodlands make Ashford Castle the ideal setting for magicians in the making. Depending on the date of stay, families of witches and wizards will embark on a Forbidden Forest treaure hunt, visit the hiding place of Dingle (Ashford Castle’s resident owl), and attend a Chamber of Art painting class or House of Elves cooking class. Kids are served dinner and view a Harry Potter movie while parents attend a feast of their own. (October 28-November 6; rates start at $709 based on two adults and two children under 12.)
Howl-O-Ween at the Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls (Photo courtesy of the Great Wolf Lodge)
Splash into Spooky Fun at Niagara Falls
Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls offers a Howl-O-Ween family extravaganza complete with haunted lodge décor, trick-or-treating trails through a haunted forest, a monster mash family dance, pumpkin carving, witchy crafts, costume parade and contest with prizes, science experiments, and spooky story time with lodge characters. If that’s not enough…the Great Wolf Lodge is home to a giant all-indoor, weatherproof water park with 13 waterslides, three pools, two whirlpools, a giant wavepool, and a lazy river. (October 14-31; $100 savings for a family of four including dinner buffet, 20 arcade tokens and a craft per child, and a large cup of candy from the Candy Factory.)
Which of these Halloween hotel packages sounds like the most fun for your family? Please leave a comment below!
You might also like:
• 5 Top Luxury Hotels for Children
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• Halloween with a Disney Twist
• World Tour of the Web – Amazing Race Haters, Mariachis, Grizzly Bears & Travel Hangers
Tags: family, Halloween, harry potter, hogwarts, hotel packages, ireland, kids, loews hotel, niagara falls, Ritz-Carlton, tea
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews | 3 Comments »
Tuesday, September 27th, 2011
Once Hawaii was chosen as the location for the first Disney hotel not adjacent to a theme park, Disney CEO Bob Iger told his staff, “Let’s build the greatest pool in the Hawaiian islands.”
It is no secret that I appreciate, nay, ADORE a good hotel pool. I was thrilled to find Disney’s Aulani Resort is home not only to fabulous pools but also a plethora of other enticing water features.
Aulani’s Waikolohe Valley
Pools
Waikolohe Pool is the resort’s main pool, located before the resort’s beachfront cove. This zero-entry pool is a beautiful spot to swim and splash together as a family. If you’re looking for a little quiet time, check the children into Aunty’s Beach House kids’ club (free for hotel guests ages 3-12) and relax at Wailana Pool instead. This small but lovely pool is away from the hubbub of the rest of the resort, and while children are not forbidden here, they are discouraged. Shaded cabanas are available at both.
Waikolohe Valley
Much of Aulani’s water fun can be found in Waikolohe Valley in the center of the resort. Waikolohe means “mischievous waters,” tying into the resort’s theme of the Menehune, mythical Hawaiian little people hidden throughout the grounds.
One of Aulani’s mischievious Menehune (Photo courtesy of Disney)
Waikolohe Stream
This lazy river winds its way through palm trees and sweet scented tropical plants like plumeria, pikake, and ginger. Playful fountains spray water at riders, but these can be avoided if you choose. My favorite part is riding through a tunnel in a manmade volcano structure while avoiding water pouring from above. Bubbles flow up from the river’s floor in this volcanic cave, surprising riders on their first float.
Menehune Bridge
This splash structure is filled with Menehune statues that shoot and pour water on giggling children. With rope bridges, mini waterslides, and fountains galore–children of all ages will love Menehune Bridge.
Kids having a ball at Menehune Bridge
Water Slides
Aulani has two full-sized waterslides, the Pu’u Kilo Slides. One is an entirely enclosed (DARK) tube slide and the other spins inner-tube riders about until they splash into a pool below.
Papalua Shave Ice Station
After an afternoon of water play, slake thirsty throats with a frozen water treat from Papalua Shave Ice Station. Choose from flavors like mango, vanilla, green tea, and root beer. Of course, grown-up frozen beverages (pina colada, anyone?) are also available from Off the Hook poolside bar and restaurant.
Papalua Shave Ice Station (Photo by Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo)
Whirlpool Spas
There are four whirlpool spas in Aulani’s Waikolohe Valley. Most impressive are Sunset Upper and Sunset Lower, which together form a bi-level hot, bubbling infinity pool that overlooks the ocean. It’s a spectacular spot to relax while soaking up the last ray’s of the day as the sun dips below the horizon.
Rainbow Reef
This unique manmade lagoon is filled with colorful fish native to Hawaii. Rainbow Reef offers a fabulous opportunity for children or those intimidated by the ocean to experience snorkeling. You may want to pay to take a dip in this lagoon and then bring your gear down to the beach to swim with sea life in the ocean. Swim near the rocks in the bay to see the most fish. For a better ocean snorkeling experience, follow the trail past neighboring JW Marriott to a small coral reef bay, just a few minutes’ walk from Aulani. You might even spy sea turtles!
Rainbow Reef snorkeling lagoon
Makai Preserve
Make a reservation at Makai Preserve for a hands-on opportunity to interact with and learn about the family of brown stingrays that live in this conservation lagoon. A portion of the proceeds from the Makai Preserve supports conservation and research efforts in Hawaii through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund.
Fish Are Friends
For an extra fee, children can attend Fish Are Friends, which gives kids a chance to feed fish in the Rainbow Reef and pet sting rays in Makai Preserve. Children participating in this premium program through Aunty’s Beach House also receive an Oceans DVD and a backpack.
Susan from 5 Minutes for Mom demonstrating one of the outdoor showers in the Kula Wai Hydrotherapy Garden
Kula Wai Hydrotherapy Garden
Water takes center stage at Aulani’s Laniwai Spa. Laniwai, which means “freshwater heaven” in Hawaiian, is 18,000-feet of spa goodness. It is home to the Kula Wai Hydrotherapy Garden, the only outdoor hydrotherapy garden on the island of Oahu. This unique 5,000-square-foot garden is filled with Hawaiian flowers and plants plus a whirlpool spa, a cold plunge pool, and two herbal soaking tubs. A circular feature with six different types of rain showers is heavenly.
Ko’Olina Beach
Even with all of the Disney-created water play available, it would be a shame to miss the natural beauty of the ocean during your visit to Aulani. The semi-circle bay offers kid-friendly, tame waves. You won’t be doing much body surfing here but the warm Hawaiian waters provide a gorgeous spot to introduce young resort guests to the Pacific. You can rent gear for snorkeling, paddle-boarding, canoeing, and kayaking from Aulani’s waterfront Makiki Joe’s Beach Rentals.
Ko’Olina Beach at Aulani
Water Excursions
If you’re still thirsty for more water fun, you could always sign up for an off-site adventure through Adventures by Disney during your stay at Aulani Resort. Watery choices include sea-kayaking, surf lessons, and a Catamaran voyage.
What do you think? Between the pools and all of the water play, did Disney succeed in creating the greatest hotel pool in the Hawaiian islands? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
You might also like:
• How to Celebrate Your Birthday at Disney’s Aulani Resort
• 10 Best Beach Hotels for Kids
• 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World
• 10 Best Kid-Friendly Hotel Pools in the USA
A note from The Travel Mama: A big mahalo to Disney for inviting me to the grand opening of the Aulani Resort!
Tags: aulani, beach, bob iger, children, disney, hawaii, hotel pool, kids, lazy river, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Theme Parks | 7 Comments »
Monday, September 19th, 2011
Keeping up with mounds of family laundry can be a struggle at home. When traveling with kids, dealing with laundry is inconvenient at best and downright daunting at worst. As a mom of three young children I’ve dealt with my share of dirty laundry on the road. Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way to make keeping up with laundry while traveling as easy as possible.
Photo by Liz West (Creative Commons 2.0)
Use a laundry bag
It’s easy to confuse clean clothes and dirty ones when everything is jumbled together in a suitcase. To keep dirty laundry from soiling clean clothing, I’ve started packing a large canvas bag for everyone to throw their clothes into when staying in a hotel room or at grandma’s house. Storage-sized zipper lock plastic bags also work well. Using a separate laundry bag keeps things neater. Plus we’ve lost fewer socks and other items, and no one tries to put on dirty underwear.
Wash clothing while away
If you are just going on a short trip, less than one week, just bring home your full laundry bag at the end of the trip and wash your items soon after you return. However, if you are traveling for an extended period, I suggest doing your laundry while you travel. The reason is twofold. First, it allows you to pack less because you can reuse clothes after they are washed. Second, washing within one week of wear is the best way to make sure no stains, dirt or odors get set in your clothes, causing permanent damage.
Plan ahead
While making your travel plans, consider laundry when deciding where to stay. There are many hotels that have washers and driers available for use by guests. If your accommodations don’t offer laundry facilities, scout out Laundromats close to where you will be staying.
Bring laundry supplies
It can be expensive and inconvenient to purchase laundry supplies while traveling, so I suggest bringing these things with you. Whether you plan to do laundry on the trip or not, bring a stain remover stick to pre-treat stains as dirty clothes go in the laundry bag. For longer trips, bring quarters or small bills for the machines plus laundry detergent.
Laundry detergent and other supplies can be bulky, so pack light. There are two basic options. The first is to repackage smaller amounts of your own supplies to take on the road. For example, you could put a load size scoop of powdered detergent in a plastic baggy, and bring enough baggies for the number of loads you anticipate doing. You could also put liquid laundry detergent and fabric softener in marked containers, along with a measuring cup.
The second option is to use travel-sized supplies. Many brands offer one-use laundry detergent packets designed for use on-the-go. Whether you re-package your own supplies or buy something just for travel, double bag all these items in your suitcase so if they leak they don’t make a huge mess. If not checking luggage, make sure liquid containers adhere to TSA size guidelines and clearly label each item.
Although keeping up with your laundry while traveling can be a bit of a hassle, it saves more hassle than it causes. To come home from a trip with clean clothes and not be faced with a huge laundry pile is a wonderful feeling. I also like being able to dress the kids in clean clothing throughout our vacation without lugging around every outfit they own.
Do you have any laundry travel tips? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
Taylor Flanery is a mom of three young kids, who unfortunately doesn’t live as close to family as she likes so she and the family travel a lot to see everyone. She is also a freelance legal and home and garden writer, who can be found blogging about keeping up with your home while raising kids at three different websites, Household Management 101, Stain Removal 101, and Home Storage Solutions 101.
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Tags: children, family, kids, laundry, travel, vacation
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 2 Comments »
Thursday, September 15th, 2011
The American tradition of family vacations traces its origins to the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. Back in the early 1900s, summer heat and deadly fevers drove those who could afford it to “vacate” cites in favor of the fresh clean air of the Adirondacks. Somehow, the term “vacation” stuck, while our friends across the pond favored going on “holiday.”
More than a century later, visitors still appreciate the pristine setting and fragrant balsam air of contiguous America’s largest park. At over 6 million acres, the Adirondack Park is bigger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and the Great Smokies combined. With so much rugged natural beauty, outdoor adventures abound.
But what can you do with children in tow? A number of family-friendly attractions in the Adirondacks offer fun and educational alternatives to the region’s wilderness adventures.
Outdoor play space at The Wild Center
The Wild Center
Young curious minds observe nature closely at this state of the art, but quirky, science center. An outdoor play space is composed entirely of sticks and dirt. Enjoy lunch from the on-site Waterside Cafe at outdoor tables with a view of the pond. Indoor seating is also available. Afterwards explore the several live animal encounters. Tip – Check the day’s schedule for otter feedings. On a recent visit, my family was both enthralled and appalled by the sight of an otter playing with, and later consuming, live fish.
A “camp” featuring artifacts at the Adirondack Museum
Adirondack Museum
Come here to discover the story of the people who make their home in the Adirondacks. Afterwards, stay to play among the exhibits and on the extensive grounds. Kids can climb aboard a stationary train, play house in a number of camps, and experience the great outdoors through hands-on outdoor sports discovery stations. Tip – Check the calendar for special events just for kids such as the Harvest Festival with apple-pressing and stagecoach rides, Familypalooza, and Family Camp.
Soldiers at Fort Ticonderoga (Photo by Dawn Bishop, with permission)
Fort Ticonderoga
See first-hand the daily lives of colonial soldiers: watch musket demonstrations; learn how to eat like a soldier; listen to the fife and drums; and follow the troops as they march on parade. Bring a picnic to spread out at the King’s Garden, or hike Mount Defiance to look out on Lake Champlain. Tip – Look out for Reenactment Days, weekend events when armies relive battles from the French and Indian War or the American Revolution.
Natural Stone Bridge and Caves (Photo by Jeff G. Moore, Creative Commons 2.0)
Natural Stone Bridge and Caves
Enter through the largest marble cave entrance to find grottos, potholes, waterfalls, and the oldest rock in North America on a self-guided, ¾ mile, mostly above-ground, natural stone step nature trail. After learning about the geology of the rock formations, kids can play at a number of fun activities – Disc Golf, Bouldering Wall, Gem Stone Mining, and the Gold Rush Mine – available for a small fee. Tip – The Dino Dig and playground are free. And do bring good rubber-soled enclosed walking shoes for the trails.
Olmpic Center Jumping Complex (Photo by Graham Alton, Creative Commons 2.0)
Olympic Center
Get a glimpse into the training regimen of champions as you visit the Olympic Museum, go on a guided tour of the Olympic Center, or head out to the Olympic Jumping Complex. A chairlift takes you from the ski jumps’ base to the top of the 120-meter jump where, even in the summer, Olympic hopefuls launch into aerial acrobatics. Leave time to lace up skates at the same rink that hosts world-class events from figure skating competitions to hockey tournaments. Tip – Splurge on the bobsled adventure, but only with kids taller than 48-inches.
Getting Here
Interstate 81 and 87 bring you within easy reach of most Adirondack attractions, accessible through fourteen Adirondack Scenic Byways that crisscross the region. Tip – Getting there is half the fun in early autumn when fall foliage stages a spectacular display!
Sandra Foyt writes about fun and educational family adventures on Albany Kid. Based in upstate New York, she stars in her own version of “Where’s Waldo?” on road trips across the US and return engagements to the Virgin Islands.
Tags: adirondack park, adirondacks, family, fort ticonderoga, kids, New York, olympic center
Posted in Family Vacations | 1 Comment »
Tuesday, September 6th, 2011
Have you ever visited a Native American archealogical site and felt disappointed when you found only few arrowheads and some difficult-to-spot sand drawings? (I have.) You will NOT be disappointed by a visit to Montezuma Castle, I promise! After I came here as a kid, I became enthralled by Native American culture, strapping a baby doll to my back and pretending to grind corn into flour in my desert yard. (Really.) It was one thing to read about the history of my childhood state of Arizona and quite another to see with my own eyes these ancient cliff-dwellings and try to picture the day-to-day lives of the Sinaguan people.
Montezuma Castle, a 20-room cliff-dwelling once occupied by the Sinaguan Indians, is the perfect road trip stop for an intriguing history lesson and a mid-day nature walk with the kids. This is a must-see for anyone traveling from Phoenix to Sedona or Flagstaff.
Montezuma Castle cliff dwelling
History
Named one of America’s first national monuments in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt, today 350,000 people visit Montezuma Castle each year. The small on-site museum includes exhibits and artifacts depicting the lifestyle, history and culture of the Sinaguan Indians who built Montezuma Castle. The Sinagua (meaning “without water” in Spanish) settled here approximately 1,000 years ago and left 400 years later. Miners who discovered the ruins in the 1860s mistakenly thought they had found remnants of the Aztec people and named the impressive building after the Aztec emperor, Montezuma.
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy by Beaver Creek during cooler months
Explore
Follow a self-guided 1/3-mile loop trail past the incredible 5-story Montezuma Castle built into limestone cliffs, through a shaded Sycamore grove, and along the perennial, spring-fed Beaver Creek. Keep your eyes and ears open for song birds, lizards, jackrabbits, coyotes and more animals during your hike. Be sure to stay on marked paths because Western Diamondback and Black-Tailed rattlesnakes also call Montezuma home.
A Montezuma Castle diorama depicting the lives of the Sinaguan Indians brings history to life for children and adults. Ask kids to imagine what it would be like to live in the castle so many years ago and to pick out which room they would like as their own.
My daughter was fascinated by the Montezuma Castle diorama
Junior Ranger Program
To get children excited about exploring the Montezuma Castle National Monument, stop by the Visitor Center to pick up Junior Ranger materials before setting out. Older kids answer questions about the monument and surroundings like, “Prickly Pear Cactus: What color are the ripe fruits?” and “Cliff Dwelling: Imagine the view! How many people do you think lived inside?”
Junior Rangers take an oath promising to protect nature and they receive an official Junior Ranger badge and certificate. Younger rangers (like my then 5-year-old daughter) can do a simpler activity like a word find and/or answering questions posed by the Park Ranger on duty.
My daughter taking her Junior Ranger oath
Getting Here
Follow I-17 to exit 289 (90 minutes north of Phoenix, 45 minutes south of Flagstaff). Drive east (through two traffic circles) for approximately 1/2 mile to the blinking red light. Turn left on Montezuma Castle Road.
What is your favorite National Monument? Tell us in the comments below!
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Tags: Arizona, children, junior ranger, kids, montezuma castle, national monument
Posted in Family Vacations | 3 Comments »
Thursday, September 1st, 2011
Do you like hip boutique hotels in awesome vacation destinations like San Diego, New Orleans, Montreal, and Washington D.C.? Of course you do! Omni Hotels & Resorts is offering a free two-night stay to one lucky Travel Mama or Travel Daddy at any of its 43 family-friendly hotel locations in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Oh, how I love a rooftop pool, especially one like this at the Omni San Diego
Omni for grown-up getaways
I got a chance to experience Omni first-hand recently when celebrating my 10-year wedding anniversary with my husband, Phil. We played tourist in our hometown at the Omni San Diego for a mini romantic getaway while the kiddos were at home with a sitter. We felt like out-of-towners experiencing a rare night out in the Gaslamp District. We started our date with a lunch of fresh seafood and a panoramic San Diego Bay view at Top of the Market. Then we checked into our sleek, modern room at the Omni (and nabbed a couple of delicious cookies from the concierge desk). Afterwards, we enjoyed a round of cocktails by the hotel’s rooftop pool.
Free cookies from the concierge? Yes, please!
Get this, the Omni San Diego Hotel is connected by skybridge to our gorgeous baseball stadium, Petco Park. There was something quite exciting about walking across this skyway and right into the park to watch a ballgame. We scored seats just 17 rows behind homeplate. You may think this was an odd way to spend our tenth wedding anniversary, but believe me, any night out on the town sans kids feels like a glorious romantic retreat to us! We were able to watch the game (uniterrupted), munch on hotdogs and sip beers, and complete an entire conversation! Before turning in, we walked through the Gaslamp District, soaking up the energy of San Diego’s downtown. Omni San Diego, in the heart of downtown across the street from the San Diego Convention Center, was just a short stroll (or pedi-cab ride) away at the end of a fabulous evening.
Bridge from Omni San Diego to Petco Park baseball stadium
Omni for family vacations
Of course, Omni isn’t just for grown-ups! In fact, Omni is going out of its way to welcome its youngest guests. Upon check-in, children receive an Omni Sensational Kids Pak backpack stocked with goodies like a Frisbee, magnifying glass, Hackey Sack, activity-filled map, washable crayons, and Twizzlers candies. Last month Omni sent a sample Kids Paks for my children to evaluate. The result? Two very happy kiddos! The magnifying glass is a favorite for my three-year-old, who likes to inspect all of his toys and books with this handy tool. Both kids still don their little backpacks to tote around their Omni prizes plus their own toys and doo-dads.
My 6-year-old daughter sporting her Omni Sensational Kids Pak
Kids receive milk and cookies delivered to their guest room on the first night and can request to borrow a rolling backpack full of toys, books, and games. Select Omni Hotels in California, Texas, and Boston also offer Kid’s Fantasy Suites. These sweet suites (with a connecting room for the parents) have special kids’ bedding, bean bag chairs, an art table, books, games, and toys. Omni Executive Caryn Kboudi enlisted the help of her then ten-year-old daughter and friends to help pinpoint what young travelers would like in their hotel room. Caryn said, “We want our youngest guests to feel special from the moment they arrive. Since the suites were designed by kids for kids, they offer the amenities of home that they miss while on vacation.”
Enter to win!
There are two ways to enter to win a two-night weekend stay at any Omni Hotels & Resorts location. Be sure to make a separate comment below for each entry to count. You can enter this contest up to twice every day, using each entry method once per day.
1. Take a look at the 43 Omni Hotels & Resorts and add a comment below about which property you’d most like to visit. Choose a different location every day, or stick to the same one. It’s up to you!
2. Bonus Entry! Follow @TravelMamas and @OmniHotels on Twitter. Then copy and paste this tweet below. Provide a link to your tweet in the comments section too!
I want to win a 2-night stay at any @OmniHotels http://tinyurl.com/3cx2r7x from @TravelMamas #giveaway
Prize value is approximately $250-$750, depending on location selected and time of travel. This contest ends at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on Sunday, September 11, 2011. Blackout dates apply. The winner will be chosen at random using RANDOM.org and will be notified by email. If the prize is not claimed within 48 hours of notification, the prize will be forfeited and another winner will be selected. THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. Find out now who won!
Would you like to be notified of other giveaways and happenings on TravelMamas.com? Sign up for the Travel Mamas e-newsletter now! Mailings are typically sent out once per month.
You might also like:
• Best San Diego Gaslamp Restaurants by a Local Foodie
• Family-Friendly New Orleans on a Budget
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• 10 Best Kid-Friendly Hotel Pools in the USA
A note from the Travel Mama: Omni Hotels & Resorts hosted my stay at their San Diego location and will provide the prize to the contest winner.
Tags: baseball, children, giveaway, kids, Omni Hotel, Omni Sensational Kids, petco park, San Diego
Posted in Family Vacations, Grown-Up Getaways, Hotel Reviews | 476 Comments »
Friday, August 26th, 2011
Visiting Mayan ruins in Mexico had been on my bucket list ever since I watched a TV special as a teenager about this fascinating culture and their monuments to Mayan gods. (Yes, I was obsessed with travel, even back then.) This desire increased when, during the eighth month of my first pregnancy, my husband was sent on a sales reward trip to Cancun. I forbade him from visiting the nearby ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum without me. Not wanting to travel to a foreign country so far into my pregnancy, I gave him a hug and a huge guilt trip before he departed for this Mexican paradise with his coworkers and their spouses.
Mayan Ruins at Tulum near Cancun
Earlier this year, when I was invited on a press trip by Diamond PR to another lovely (but not bucket listed) location, I noticed this PR firm represents two sweet-looking properties in Cancun. So, I asked if I could attend a Cancun press trip instead. They said, “Si!” and within a couple of weeks I was the one bearing the guilt trip as I boarded a plane to Mexico. As I stood swaying in the unfathomably turquoise-colored ocean waves, staring up at the Tulum ruins perched on seaside cliffs, I thought, “I have the best job ever.”
Mayan ruins
Built in the 13th Century AD, Tulum is the site of Mexico’s only oceanfront ruins. Here you can wander past ancient stone temples and once-residences and peer at iguanas sunning themselves amongst the ruins. Then march down a set of wooden stairs to take a dip in the enticing waves to cool off.
Although my group didn’t, I highly recommend paying the extra fee for a guided tour of the ruins. Learning specific details about the structures and culture from an expert while wandering through the ruins of Pompeii in Italy made that experience much more meaningful for me.
Steps to the ocean from the Tulum ruins
Chichen Itza is a larger archealogical site but further away from Cancun (126 miles versus 81). It is listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and was once the ceremonial center of the Yucatan. These Mayan ruins may have been built as early as 600 AD. The most famous and impressive pyramid, Kukulkan Pyramid, is over 75-feet-tall.
Family-friendly dining
After our visit to Tulum, our little pack of travel writers was driven to the nearby cafe, Oscar & Lalo’s for fresh seafood served in a garden setting. If visiting with children, after your meal let the kiddos romp around on the on-site playground while you relax in a tableside hammock. This is something I adore about the family-friendly atmosphere of Mexico; playground areas at restaurants are not reserved just for fast-food joints as in America. In Mexico, you can often find kid-friendly climbing structures and diversions at many casual and fancier restaurants, making dinner for the whole family fun and stress-free.
Play structure for kids at Oscar & Lalo’s
Xcaret ecopark
Next, we headed to Xcaret, an ecopark located on over 200 acres, with way more activities than could be completed in a half-day or even full-day visit. Instead of trying to squeeze it all in, pick a few must-dos and concentrate on those or plan to spend two days here. If traveling with young children, I suggest breaking up your visit to Chichen Itza and Xcaret into two days, even though it will mean more driving. This was a fun, but very long and tiring day, even for adults.
Meander through the park’s impressive animal exhibits featuring jaguars, lions, takins (goofy looking animals related to sheep), monkeys, and more. There’s also a Butterfly Pavilion, Bat Cave, and Coral Reef Aquarium. You can book a stingray encounter, dolphin swim, or underground river snorkeling adventure at the Water Activities Center. Xcaret is also home to actual Mayan ruins, which may not rival Tulum or Chichen Itza, but while most Mexican ruins are now inaccessible due to erosion, you can actually climb on these (for now, at least).
A jaguar at Xcaret
Mexican culture
The Xcaret Night Show gives insight to the history, culture, and proud people of Mexico. A three-course meal is available during the show. While the food is not spectacular, it adds to the fun of the evening.
The show comes to light with the scent of candles and burning sage. Then, a lively reenactment of the ancient ball game of Pok ta’pok commences, a mythical sport that dates back to 1000 BC. Later, a war scene depicts the battles between Spanish settlers and Mexico’s native people.
Xcaret Night Show
I was seated with Sergio Esquinca, an executive at Xcaret, who leaned over during the conversion of the Aztecs and Mayans to Catholicism. He said, “This is my favorite part because it means peace.” Sergio pointed out how audience members from various areas of Mexico cheered when their regions’ traditions were acted out using dance, music, and costumes.
I was struck by depth of connection Mexico’s citizens have to their heritage, with obvious ties to Spanish culture blended with traditions of the country’s native peoples. Although I love my country, watching this show made me long for a deeper sense of American culture beyond red stripes and blue stars, baseball, hotdogs, and apple pie.
Beaches and water
Cancun is home to some of the world’s most gorgeous beaches, with powdery shores the color of vanilla cake batter and warm water in that impossible hue of turquoise. For an adventure, book a snorkeling excursion, deep sea fishing trip, or Sub-See Explorers Yellow Submarine cruise with Aquaworld. Waterpark lovers should check out Wet n’ Wild for waterslides, a lazy river, bumper boats and more.
View from my room at CasaMagna Marriott Cancun
Cancun resorts
I stayed at the CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort with its traditional Spanish design and a grandiose view of the ocean. Its sister property next door, JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa has a more sleek, upscale vibe (and pricing). I highly recommend either for their oceanfront locations, fabulous pools, and delicious restaurants.
Between the two resorts, you’ll find several international restaurants representing the cuisine of Thailand, Argentina, Japan, Italy, America’s Southwest, and, of course, Mexico. I was especially impressed with their tantalizing breakfast buffets of fresh fruits and colorful juices, egg dishes, pastries, fried plantains and more.
Both CasaMagna and JW Marriott Cancun offer a year-round Marriott Kids club for children ages 4-12 with a club room and playground. Daily activities might include pinata making, water balloon contests, Spanish lessons, and a sea turtle conservation program. Hours are 10 am – 4 pm daily. In-room babysitting is also available 24 hours per day at an additional charge.
While the kids are busy having their own fun, book a spa appointment at either resort or whoop it up at CasaMagna’s Champions Sports Bar, which offers a dance floor, sports of all sorts on huge flat screen TVs, and even Karaoke. Surely a margarita (or two) will get you in the mood for belting out your favorite songs!
Be sure to get a cup of Mexican hot chocolate and traditional pastries served with cajeta (caramel sauce) from the breakfast buffet (Delicioso!)
Escape! Connecting rooms package
If you are regular Travel Mamas reader, you probably know that I’m big proponent of getting a suite or connecting rooms when traveling with kids. This is mostly because I am a terrible sleeper and bunking down with my family of four in one room leads to sleepless nights and a cranky mama. I also like having extra space to spread out. Plus, a little privacy post bedtime is good for a little vacation romance!
I love that CasaMagna is offering a special Escape! Connecting rooms package through December 22, 2011. (This package is all booked up at JW Marriott Cancun). Rates start at $236 for connecting resort or ocean view rooms with daily breakfast for two adults and two children (under age 12). Use Promo code XE2 when booking. Check out this and other specials.
Bucket List
I am tickled to scratch an item off my bucket list. However, I may have to add another wish now: Visit Cancun with my family! While this long weekend in Cancun was a wonderful retreat, I would love to return with my husband and children for a longer stay. If you haven’t visited Cancun yet…add it to your bucket list! You’ll be glad you did.
Do you think Cancun is bucket-list-worthy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Beach Day in Zihuatanejo, Mexico
• 10 Best Beach Hotels for Kids
• Tips for a Cabo San Lucas Girlfriend Getaway
• Travel Bucket List Contest from Hilton Garden Inn
A note from The Travel Mama: Thank you Diamond PR and Marriott Cancun for fulfilling one of my bucket list dreams!
Tags: cancun, casa magna, chichen itza, children, family, jw marriott, kids, Mexico, tulum, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Grown-Up Getaways, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews | No Comments »
Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011
As an expat and mom living in Asia with my husband and young daughter, I find traveling in South Korea with children far easier than in many countries. A South Korean vacation can be an educational feast for all family members with its wealth of cultural traditions.
Throughout the country, you can find plentiful spaces in which kids are welcomed to play and learn. The abundance of nursing rooms available throughout Korea (Incheon Airport has several) is just one example of the South Korean acceptance of families with children.
Here are some of my favorite spots for family travel throughout South Korea.
Seoul and surrounding areas
There are a number of activities for parents and kids alike in South Korea’s capital city, Seoul.
Insadong, a Seoul neighborhood (or dong) once known as the largest market for antiques and artwork in Korea, is a delight and very safe. Children will enjoy looking at traditional Korean crafts here such as Buddhist sculptures and masks.
Ilsan, not too far from Seoul by train, offers incredible parks that are popular with Korean families. Our favorite is Lake Park, which offers plenty of space and nature for toddlers to explore.
About 25 miles south of Seoul is Yongin, home of one of the world’s largest theme parks, Everland. After a day of amusements, restaurants such as Han-ga-ram and Holland Village offer a fun ambience for kids as well as great food.
Gangwon-do province
Perhaps one of South Korea’s most well-known family destinations is Gangwon-do province. Nature lovers will find plenty of activities here, including exploring natural caves in the national parks near the Taebaek Mountain range.
The region along Gangwon-do’s East Sea is where approximately 77% of Koreans vacation for summer holidays. Families love Mangsang Beach (in Donghae City) for its white sand and shallow water.
Paju
Lesser known Paju (about one hour from Seoul in Gyeonggi province) is known for its amazing dubu (tofu) and insam (ginseng). Paju is home to a few must see places for families, such as Honey Land (an amusement/water park) and Book City (a center dedicated to publishing and literature).
One of my favorite places in Paju is Heyri Art Village, a sister of Book City, where over 370 writers, artists, cineastes, architects, and musicians maintain artistic spaces, houses, work rooms, museums, and galleries. Stroll through Heyri’s cafes, art exhibits, book stores, antique shops, a cinema, theater, and music hall.
Geumchon district
My family lived in Geumchon for one year and experienced first-hand the inviting nature of this region, with children welcome in every restaurant. The Gaeseong Ginseng Festival happens every October and draws families from all over the country. Kids especially love the Imjingang kite flying festival in February, where they can play traditional Korean folk games.
Busan
The second largest city in South Korea after Seoul, Busan (formerly spelled Pusan), is another fabulous family-friendly destination. Every Saturday in Yongdusan Park there is Traditional Folk Performances featuring music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
On our honeymoon in Busan, my husband and I went to a traditional dado tea ceremony at the Tea-Ceremony Museum at Pusan Women’s College. All of the staff were dressed in vibrant hanboks (ornate, traditional Korean dresses), which made me long to buy a hanbok for myself and my daughter! Many traditional tea houses in South Korea offer some caffeine-free varieties (such as sweet ginger and red ginseng) for children to enjoy.
During our stay in South Korea, the local coffee shop we frequented basically adopted our family; we even referred to the owners as our daughter’s Korean grandma and grandpa. They adored her. Children were often running around and causing chaos in their café but no one seemed to mind. This put my mind at ease since it can be a challenge to go out with toddlers (let alone travel with them!).
Truly, Korea is the most kid-friendly country I have ever visited in my extensive travels. Korea has so much to offer the world; I hope more families will bring their children to discover this amazing country.
Elizabeth Kelsey is part of a British-American nomadic, unschooling family, currently residing in Phuket, Thailand. Their blog, Sattvic Family, details their lives as a homeschooling family as well as their travels throughout Europe and Asia.
Are there any countries or cities that you have found particularly child-friendly in your travels? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Tags: busan, children, family travel, honey land, kids, paju, seoul, south korea
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 8 Comments »
Tuesday, August 16th, 2011
I never would have thought of Croatia as a family destination, but after our visit I can absolutely say it is one of the best places to vacation with children.
On the western coast of Croatia lies the extraordinary city of Zadar. This Mediterranean city has been through a lot in its nearly 3,000 years of existence and as a result offers more than just sea and gelato. There is world-renowned nature-inspired art and there are layers of history woven into the buildings and ruins that remain standing after several wars. Within an hour driving distance of Zadar there are national parks, waterfalls, and opportunities for river rafting. Of course, there is sea and gelato too!
“Greetings to the Sun” light show in Zadar, Croatia
Things to Do
My family was in awe of the beautiful architecture influenced from Renaissance, Baroque and Medieval times in Zadar’s Old Town. One of the most impressive buildings is the Church of St. Donat from the 9th Century.
After sight-seeing and shopping there is no better way to end the day than by sitting by the Sea Organ watching one of the world’s most beautiful sunsets. Created by Croatian architect Nikola Bašić, the Sea Organ is a set of concrete steps with organ pipes embedded underneath. When waves crash into the steps they fill the pipes and create a beautiful harmonic sound.
Located behind the Sea Organ is the Greetings to the Sun, another nature-meets-art installation engineered by Bašić. The 77-foot diameter circle is set in the ground and made up of several solar panels. At night the energy absorbed from the panels is used to create a phenomenal light show. Kids of all ages love chasing the bouncing lights.
Visiting Preko on the island of Ugljan was one of my family’s favorite experiences during our Croatian travels. Many of the shops and restaurants were closed because we visited Preko during off-season. Still we enjoyed the laidback vibe of this island town. Near the sea was a playground and small pebbly beach perfect for kiddos to play and for parents to sit and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. Preko is just a 20-minute ferry ride from Zadar; kids ride for free while the cost for adults is minimal.
Traditional Dalmatian Cuisine of octopus and tuna
Mediterranean and Dalmatian Cuisine
Food is one of the main things that defines a culture, so we make it a point to always sample the local cuisine, no matter how exotic it may seem compared to our usual fare. Our cabbie had recommend Nico’s as the best restaurant in Zadar, so we took his advice and splurged for lunch one day. We sampled sardines, octopus, tuna tartar, and salmon risotto. To our surprise our daughter actually loved the octopus!
Luckily we didn’t have to be too adventurous with every meal since there are also plenty of pizza and pasta eateries in Croatia. Our favorite restaurant ended up being an Italian joint right by the sea called Bruschetta. The shrimp fettuccine pasta in a garlic cream sauce was simply to die for!
Church of St. Donat in Zadar’s Old Town
Where to Stay
I like to use booking.com when searching for places to stay in Europe. The site offers plenty of reviews of various types of accommodations (hotels, apartments or bed & breakfasts), many which cater to families with small children. Be sure to check the proximity to Old Town by foot or bus before booking. The bus is very easy to use and super cheap too. Most hotels can help you with the schedule. I also cross-reference places to stay on tripadvisor to read reviews from a variety of travelers, many of whom post photos so you really know what you’re paying for. We stayed at Villa Triana and I would highly recommend this vacation apartment rental to any family.
The boardwalk outside of Zadar’s Old Town
Getting There
Located on the western coast of Croatia — Zadar was our first Ryanair destination. I wrote a post about our amazing experience flying with the discount European airline and can’t believe we didn’t use them sooner! Train and car are also suitable transportation options, depending on your situation and travel schedule. I’ve read several travelers suggest renting a car from Dubrovnik or Split and heading up the coast to Zadar.
Rebecca Wright is an avid traveller, foodie, and lover of all things crafty. She currently lives in western Germany with her husband and two young children, ages four and one. She writes about her day-to-day life as an expat, her travels through Europe, and her creative endeavors on her blog, Living Wright Home.
Tags: children, Croatia, family, Greetings to the Sun, kids, preko, sea organ, ugljan
Posted in Family Vacations | 1 Comment »
Monday, August 8th, 2011
As a California resident, former SeaWorld annual pass holder, and parent of two – I have been to SeaWorld San Diego more times than I can count. I’ve gathered up a list of 10 tips to make the most of visiting this watery amusement/education park when visiting with kids.
Blue Horizons Show
1. Schedule your day around the shows
Grab a park map at the entrance and plan your day around the show times listed on the back. There are nine different shows to choose from (three of which only take place at night), ranging from 5 minutes in length (the Into the Blue Fireworks show) to 20-25 minutes. Get to the shows a little early to nab a good seat. Doors to shows close promptly and they do sometimes fill to capacity, especially during high tourist seasons like spring break and summer weekends. My family’s favorites are the Blue Horizons show (with leaping, spinning dolphins and humans dressed up like birds performing Cirque de Soleil-like acrobatics in and out of the water) and Pet’s Rule! (a humorous show filled with land animals like dogs, cats, ducks, and pigs performing tricks galore).
2. Remember clearly where you park
I have lost my car more at SeaWorld San Diego than anywhere else. Rows are marked but the signs are widespread so take note of exactly how close you are to the row letter and number.
3. Budget meal money and calories
You can bring small kid-sized snacks into the park, but not full meals. Yes, they do check your bags at the entrance and make you return forbidden food to the car, pack the items into a rentable locker, or dump it out. As at most amusement parks, the food is not cheap. There are plenty of deep-fried and sugary temptations, but you can also find healthier options like salads, barbecue-smoked chicken (at the Calypso Bay Smokehouse), and fresh fruits.
Elmo’s Flying Fish ride in the Sesame Street Bay of Play
4. Get in line for popular rides first thing
If you want to ride Journey to Atlantis (a roller coaster with two big splashy dips), Shipwreck Rapids (a very wet water ride), or Riptide Rescue (a spinning thrill ride) — get in line first thing when the park opens in the morning. Lines can get quite long (an hour+) as the day goes on. These rides are located quite a distance from each other, so you have to prioritize. Journey to Atlantis is probably the most popular, so hit that one first. The Bayside Skyride (a gondola ride over San Diego Bay) and the Skytower Ride (the tall needle-shaped ride in the center of the park that provides 360 degree views of the park) are more mellow and wait times are typically more manageable. There are also three fun rides for young children in the Sesame Street Bay of Play area of the park.
5. Prepare for A LOT of time in the sun
If ever you were going to pack sunhats and slather on the sunscreen, do it at SeaWorld. There is no shade for the shows and sitting on the aluminum benches under the beating Southern California sun (particularly in summer), it can feel like the hottest place on the planet.
6. Cool down & bring swim gear
There are plenty of watery opportunities to cool down at SeaWorld: fountains at the Sesame Street Bay of Play for young children, Shipwreck Rapids and Journey to Atlantis water rides for big kids and adults, and sitting in the splash zone at the park’s many shows. Bring along swimsuits and towels for little ones who will get soaked in the Sesame Street splash area. If you forget, you can buy Elmo, Zoe, and other Sesame Street character-themed gear there. You can walk through the chilly Wild Arctic attraction (with polar bears, beluga whales, and walruses on display) or the Penguin Encounter.
Journey to Atlantis
7. Keep kids busy while waiting for shows
Kids can get antsy waiting for shows to start, so use toys and snacks as entertainment while you wait. Pack a few little distractions in your day bag or purse like mini bubbles, toy cars, or Sillybandz. Food is allowed into shows (and peddled by SeaWorld employees inside), so this is a good time to break out the snacks to busy the kids.
8. Stay hydrated
You will be doing a lot of walking, probably in the sun. Don’t get so busy that you forget to stay hydrated. There are plenty of beverage carts throughout the park. The Frozen Lemonades are deeeeelicious!
9. Keep it fun by alternating activities
Especially with children, it’s important to alternate mellow activities (like watching shows or walking through the park’s numerous aquariums) with busy fun (like climbing the giant rope structure in Sesame Street Bay of Play or feeding sea lions at Pacific Point).
Turtle Bay Aquarium
10. Tell children what to do if you become separated
During one visit to SeaWorld, I found a little boy (about age 5) by himself with tears in his eyes. I asked him if he was lost and indeed he was. We walked back with him to Guest Relations/Lost & Found and stayed with him until his aunt was located. Before exploring any large tourist attraction, remind children what to do should they become separated: Stay where you are until your grown-ups return, or approach a MOM with children of her own and tell her you are lost. (And, parents should keep eyes open for children who could use a little help finding their families!)
For more information, check out the SeaWorld San Diego website. Additional SeaWorld locations are in San Antonio, Texas and Orlando, Florida.
Do you have a SeaWorld tip or favorite attraction to share? Tell us in the comments below!
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A note from The Travel Mama: My family and I recently received complimentary media tickets to SeaWorld San Diego. All opinions are my own.
Tags: California, children, kids, San Diego, SeaWorld
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks, Travel Tips | 4 Comments »
Monday, July 25th, 2011
There are three wonderful things about road trips with children: 1) You can pack oodles of snacks, toys, and games for the trip; 2) You can go at your own pace and take breaks for playing, potty time, and site-seeing; and 3) If the kids have a meltdown and start driving you nuts, at least they’re only driving YOU nuts instead of a whole planeful of passengers!
Pack Travel Snacks
My favorite way to keep kids’ hands (and mouths) busy on road trips is with snacks, snacks, and more snacks. Start with healthy goodies like whole grain crackers and cereals, trail mix, and sliced fresh fruits. I also like soy crisps and protein bars because many travel snacks are carbohydrate-laden and I want to squeeze some protein in there. Keep everything in separate containers and dole them out sloooowly to get the most bang for your snacking bucks.
Travel Mama Maria Pilar Clark of One Mom Media says, “We love handheld cooler-friendly snacks (like) hard-boiled eggs, Babybel cheeses, yogurt, (and) baby carrots.” She also recommends sneaking a pack of wipes in the cooler to keep kids’ and parents’ hands and faces fresh in hot weather. Great tip!
For babies and toddlers, Travel Mama Farrah Ritter suggests the squeezable fruit and vegetable blends offered by Peter Rabbit Organics and Plum Organics. She says, “My toddler loves them as do my nine-month-old twins. No mess!”
After snacktime, move on to other diversions for awhile before pulling out mealtime items like sandwiches on whole wheat bread, cheese sticks, and maybe a pasta salad with lots of fresh veggies. To save money and time, you might want to consider eating meals on the road or stopping for a picnic lunch outdoors where kids can run around and get their wiggles out. Plus, kids who have been stuck in a car for hours may not be so good at remaining still and using their “inside voices” during a meal in a restaurant.
Reserve some “forbidden snacks” to share as you get closer to your destination for bribery purposes. I like to dole out small, colorful candies like mini M&Ms one at a time for good behavior. Play the “Who can be quiet the longest” game with small treats for the winner of each round.
Take On-the-Go Toys
Of course, you can bring along electronic doo-dads to keep kids content during long road trips, but I suggest holding off on the iPods, Gameboys, and portable DVD players until the last leg of your journey. Start instead with old-fashioned fun like books (a few favorites plus a new title or two), travel puzzles, coloring and activity books, a travel arts and craft kit, and sticker scenes. You can purchase a lap travel tray to help facilitate these activities. It always helps if an adult can ride in the backseat for at least a portion of the trip to help entertain kiddos (and break-up sibling fights)!
I am constantly on the outlook for new toys to bring along on our next vacation but I also keep a separate hidden stash of toys and books to minimize my efforts and keep things feeling fresh for each trip. If you don’t have the time or interest to assemble your own travel packs, check out TravelKiddy’s selection of pre-made actvitiy kits.
Bring Road Trip Games
With all of the modern-day stresses and electronic diversions, road trips are a wonderful time to connect with children. Play old-school games like 20 Questions, Travel Bingo, or I Spy. Travel Mama Joann Wooley, owner of Sign 4 Baby sign language school, says of her family road trips, “We look for American flags and letters of the alphabet and play simple math games.”
Travel Mama Stacey Crumrine – creator of Positively Kids, a site for parents, caregivers, and teachers – suggests simple paper and pen games like Hangman and Tic-Tac-Toe. And on the way home from a recent trip to Florida, she kept her young daughters busy by having them color collected sea shells with crayons. Brilliant!
Many favorite family board games are available in travel versions. For young children, check out Candyland, Hi Ho Cherry-O, and Zingo. Older kids might like Connect 4, Loaded Questions On the Go, Travel Backgammon, Battleship, and Travel Chess.
Pack Safety & Sanity Too
No matter the meltdowns and detours you might encounter during your road trip, the most important thing is that your family arrives safely at your destination (with sanity intact). Allstate insurance has a new Good Hands Roadside Assistance program that can help you do just that. Put your mind at ease knowing that help will be on the way if you need it while on the road. You do not have to have Allstate insurance to use this service. You only pay when you use it; there are no monthly fees. Pre-registering for Good Hands Roadside Assistance provides faster service at time of need on the road. Those that pre-register will also receive a welcome kit in the mail containing a wallet card, key fob and window cling with the phone number for roadside help. Find out more about the Allstate Good Hands Roadside Assistance program.
What’s your favorite road trip snack, toy or game?
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A Note from The Travel Mama: I was compensated by Allstate to write this post. I was not required to sign up for the program but I did because I like to be safe on the road. It’s free, so why not?!
Tags: Allstate Roadside Assistance, babies, children, games, kids, road trip, snacks, toddlers, toys
Posted in Family Vacations, Toys & Gear, Travel Tips | 8 Comments »
Friday, July 1st, 2011
I’m a hotel pool addict. It started when I was a kid. Some of my favorite childhood memories are of splashing around with my brother and sister in indoor hotel pools in the Midwest and having “silliest jump” contests off the diving board in my family’s pool after we moved to the Arizona desert.
As a parent, some of my happiest moments with my kids take place in the water too. We are a family of beach-goers, water park aficionados, and hotel pool enthusiasts. Apparently, I am not alone. One of the most popular posts ever on Travel Mamas is 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World.
I wanted to share some more spectacular pools with you water lovers, focusing on destinations in the good ol’ USA. To compile this list of 10 best hotel pools in America, I asked some of my fellow Best Family Travel Advice bloggers to tell us about their favorite family-friendly hotel pools from their travels. Of course, I included a couple of my picks too.
The Monorail-themed pool at the Disneyland Hotel all lit up at nighttime (Photo by Colleen Lanin)
Most Thoroughly Themed Pool
Disneyland Hotel
Anaheim, California
As the ultimate pool lover, you can imagine my awe when I laid eyes upon the newly remodeled, monorail-themed pool at the Disneyland Hotel. Swimmers zip through a replica Monorail Car at the entrance of two main slides before twisting and turning their way to the water below. Younger kids can glide down a two-lane mini-slide and play in bubble jets. The only problem? Getting the kids out of the water and over to the theme parks!
The River Bluff Water Experience at JW Marriott San Antonio Resort & Spa (Photo by Colleen Lanin)
Supremely Scenic Pool
JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
San Antonio, Texas
The River Bluff Water Experience at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is not only a big bunch of fun, but also it’s a gorgeous spot to enjoy the natural beauty of Texas Hill Country. You’ll almost feel like you’re on a real river as you meander along the Cyprus tree-lined 1,200-foot lazy river, with walls made from a compilation of stones. For some mischievous entertainment, kids can spin and pump various mechanical doo-dads to spray other guests afloat on the river. The zero-entry pool is paradise for little ones with its animal-shaped fountains and three small water slides. Meanwhile, bigger kids and grown-ups can zoom down two thrilling water slides.
Silver Mountain Resort’s Indoor Water Park (Photo Courtesy of Silver Mountain Resort)
Best Indoor/Outdoor Pool
Silver Mountain Resort
Kellogg, Idaho
“The pool at the Morning Star Lodge within Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg, Idaho is far more than just a pool; it’s an entire indoor/outdoor aquatic complex with water slides, a lazy river, and surf simulator. Perfect for a break from skiing in the winter or a rainy afternoon in summer, this complex, dubbed Silver Rapids, is included in resort guests’ room rate. There’s even a zero-depth entry and water play area for infants and toddlers.”
- Amy Whitley, Pit Stops for Kids
The palm-lined pool at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa (Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency)
Ultimate California Dreamin’ Pool
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa
Huntington Beach, California
“Set on a scenic stretch of Southern California’s Pacific Ocean, the only thing that will get your kids running off the beach is Slyders water playground at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. The water playground has three mellow but fun water slides, an enormous 25 person hot tub, a wading pool for little ones, a family pool, and private cabanas perfect for getting the kids to actually sit down and eat when you order lunch from the poolside café. Keep the swimsuits handy for when the sun sets, because that’s when dive-in movies and s’mores making begins.”
- Dana Rebmann, Ciao Bambino
The Octopool at Pink Shell Resort (Photo by Mara Gorman)
Most Playful Pool
Pink Shell Resort
Fort Myers, Florida
“The Octopool at the Pink Shell Resort in Fort Myers was a huge hit with my kids. It’s zero-entry on one side for the little ones and is deep enough on the other to be fun for older kids. You can drink or dine right next to the pool and on Friday evenings, kids can watch a movie on a huge inflatable screen while they float on inner tubes. Best of all — the octopus’ eyes light up at night!”
- Mara Gorman, Mother of All Trips
The view from the Four Seasons Biltmore pool (Photo by Sharlene Earnshaw)
Best Pool with a View
Four Seasons Biltmore
Santa Barbara, California
“If you are looking for the pool with one of the best views in America, look no further than the luxurious yet family friendly Four Seasons Biltmore in Santa Barbara, California. Guests of the resort have access to the legendary Coral Casino Beach Club, which is directly across the street and features a massive 160-foot-long pool which overlooks the Pacific and Channel Islands beyond, along with a children’s wading pool and spa.”
- Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo
The Broadmoor’s outdoor pool (Photo by Kara Williams)
Swankiest Poolside Service
The Broadmoor
Colorado Springs, Colorado
“The outdoor pool at The Broadmoor, a luxury resort in Colorado Springs, Colorado, gets high marks from my kids for its two water slides. I like that it’s adjacent to gorgeous Cheyenne Lake and surrounded by mountains. The service is top notch: when you walk into the pool area, you’re greeted by a pool attendant who will get big fluffy towels for your whole family and walk you to empty lounge chairs — whether you want to park it by the zero-depth entry (great for toddlers) or sit under umbrellas in a quieter grassy spot away from the action.”
- Kara Williams, The Vacation Gals
Forest Oasis Pool at the Woodlands Resort (Photo by Kayt Sukel)
Most Awesome Pool for All Ages
Woodlands Resort
Woodlands, Texas
“Kids of all ages will love the Forest Oasis Pool at the Woodlands Resort in the Woodlands, Texas. Not only does it have two thrilling water slides, game areas and a play fountain, the Forest Oasis also has great out-of-water activities for pruny fingers including a scavenger hunt, a clown and roving waitstaff who love to bring Moms and Dads fun and fruity cocktails.”
- Kayt Sukel, Travel Savvy Mom
Grand Wailea Pool (Photo by Anne Hartzel Taylor)
Best Luxury Hotel Pool
Grand Wailea
Maui, Hawaii
“We love Maui with kids and hands-down our favorite luxury hotel pool is the luxurious water playground at the Grand Wailea on the island of Maui in Hawaiian Islands. With an abundance of waterslides, caves, a rope swing, sand-bottom baby pool, a volcano-esqe hot tub and the world’s only water elevator, this pool has something for every family with kids of any age. Tip: Position yourself poolside down by the bottom of the lazy river to watch the kids as they make their way to the bottom of the pool!”
- Anne Taylor Hartzell, Hip Travel Mama
Splashtopia at Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa (Photo courtesy of Rancho Las Palmas Resort)
Best Year-Round Pool
Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa
Palm Springs Area, California
“The Palm Springs area is one of the few places in America with swimming weather year-round. Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage has taken full advantage of sunshine and created Splashtopia, a large pool complex complete with water slides, a lazy river, a sand beach for tots, and a large pool which features Dive In Movies on the weekends.”
- Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo
What’s your favorite family-friendly hotel pool in America? Tell us in the comments below!
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LEGOLAND Water Park: Joy Is Good, Right?
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Tags: america, best hotel pools, family-friendly, kids, usa, water park, water slide
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews | 10 Comments »
Monday, June 27th, 2011
Music is one of the best tools for keeping families content and entertained during a road trip. The trick is to find music that both the kids AND the parents enjoy. Here are some of my family’s favorite road trip songs plus some suggestions from other family travel bloggers.
Adult Music Kids Like
You don’t have to listen to nothing but the neighing and mooing of ”Old McDonald’s Farm” to keep the kids happy. Choose catchy adult tunes with g-rated lyrics and you’re good to go. Some of my family’s preferred road trip artists include the Jackson 5, Paul McCartney, and Janet Jackson. My kids know all of the words to Janet’s “Someone to Call My Lover.” Despite the title, this song is fairly kid-friendly. Plus, it is ever so funny to watch a three-year-old and six-year-old belting out, “Maybe we’ll meet at a bar. He’ll drive a funky car. Maybe we’ll meet at a club. And fall so deeply in love.”
Have Baby Will Travel‘s Corinne McDermott said, “Luckily my kids are still small, and don’t realize they could actually have a say or that their favorite kiddie shows have soundtracks you can purchase. We survive by choosing kid-friendly grown-up music – Bob Marley, old Beatles, and ABBA usually make the list.”
Mara Gorman of Mother of All Trips said, “The favorite songs change, but one that is always a favorite is actually ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen. This means it can be just like a scene from Wayne’s World in our car, which is lots of fun. Fortunately the boys don’t really seem to pay attention to the topic of the song. Their love was cemented when I showed them the version performed by the Muppets on YouTube.”
Keryn Means of Walking on Travels likes to play Muse in the car for her son, Dek. She said, “I started listening to Muse when Dek was in the womb. When he was first born, it was the only music that would calm him down in the car and make him stop crying. Now that he is older, he bounces along to the drum beats.”
Kid Music Adults Like
Many parents detest the thought of children’s music, like David Robert Hogg of My Little Nomads, who said, “Music is one area where my kids get zero input.”
At first I avoided buying music made specifically for children, too. I figured I could play whatever I wanted and my children would never know the difference. But then Grandma Ellen bought a few CDs with songs like “Puff the Magic Dragon” and “The Ants Go Marching In.” Now, my kids are hooked.
Turns out, I don’t mind children’s music so much. There certainly are some annoying options out there (off-key choruses of children singing, anyone?), but CDs for children tend to be upbeat and great for sing-a-longs. Check out Wee Sing in the Car and Twin Sisters Productions’ Down by the Bay.
According to Rainer Jenss of National Geographic Intelligent Travel, the children’s CD No! by They Might be Giants is fun for both kids and adults. Meanwhile, Keryn’s family prefers Muppets music for road trips. She said, “It’s kid -friendly, but parent-friendly too. [My husband] and I grew up on the Muppets so it brings back some fun memories that we can share with our son.”
I personally love the Putamayo World Music collection of culturally diverse songs. However, these have been a bit of a hard sell with my kids. The Sing-A-Longs and Lullabies for the film Curious George is a big hit with my whole family, though. The kids enjoy the sweet melodies and lyrics; the parents appreciate Jack Johnson’s singing and guitar strumming.
Lullabies
Bring along some mellow music to calm children and maybe encourage some deliciously silent sleeping in the backseat. I have probably listened to the CD from the movie, The Garden State, at least a thousand times in the car. This soundtrack works like a automatic sleep button for my kindergartner. Even though she typically no longer takes naps, if I put this music on, she will be asleep in her booster seat within minutes. Meagan Ross of Mini Globetrotters recommends the Rockabye Baby and Hushabye Baby series because they are, “sweet and gentle enough for baby to snooze and fun [and] retro enough for mom and dad to hum along.”
Mix It Up
Dr. Jessica Voigts of Wandering Educators suggests making mix CDs or playlists on MP3 players. Her family’s mixes include funk from her husband’s youth, musical soundtracks that she loves, and current songs that their nine-year-old daughter enjoys.
Stay Safe on the Road
While you’re bopping along to all of these good tunes, be sure to stay safe on the road. Good Hands Roadside Assistance is a new program from Allstate Insurance that’s FREE to sign up for. You only pay if you use the service. In most cases it’s just $75 for a tow and $50 for other services. I signed up the other day and it was a quick and easy process.
What music do you play on family road trips? Share your favorites in the comments below!
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• A Road Trip with Children Experiment: Eat While You Drive. Stop to Play.
• Family Road Trip Resources
• Family Road Trip Tips
• Mother Knows Best: An Old School Road Trip
A Note from The Travel Mama: I was compensated by Allstate to write this post. I was not required to sign up for the program but I like to be safe on the road. And I like free stuff. Don’t you?!
Tags: Allstate Roadside Assistance, children's music, family road trip, family travel bloggers, kids, music, songs
Posted in Family Vacations, Toys & Gear, Travel Tips | 3 Comments »
Wednesday, June 1st, 2011
Splash Zoo in the LEGOLAND California Waterpark is beyond adorable. This new water play area is outfitted with DUPLO animals (a lion, a zebra, a giraffe, a polar bear, and two penguins). Each animal has an interactive feature, like a wheel on the giraffe that makes water spout from its mouth and ears. A seesaw sprays riders when toddlers make it teeter up and down. There’s also a crawl-through tunnel and a fountain that shoots water 25 feet in the air.
LEGOLAND Water Park Splash Zoo
Although built specifically for children ages one to three, there were plenty of other kids splashing around in the Splash Zoo on its opening day. At first my six-year-old balked at this attraction being “for babies” but after she saw other big kids hamming it up on the water features, she joined in the fun.
I worried about keeping an eye on two young children all on my own so I didn’t bring my three-year-old son to opening day of this attraction. I was wracked with guilt the minute I laid eyes on Splash Zoo because I knew how much he would go bananas for this colorful, watery area. Apparently, Karissa felt a tad guilty too. Upon arrival, she said, “Mommy, I feel sad for Leo that he’s not here.”
Located near numerous lounge chairs and a handful of rent-able shaded cabanas, this attraction makes a great spot for parents to chat and relax without worry while little ones play since there is no pool of water here - just fountains galore.
Splash Zoo is a perfect spot for toddlers and preschoolers
Nearby is Splash Safari with its child-sized waterslides and Kid Creek, a mini lazy river built just for children. Life vests are available for kids of all ages at LEGOLAND Water Park, so really, I could have brought both and managed just fine.
To be honest, I was craving a mommy-daughter day. It turns out, Karissa must’ve wanted a special day for just the two of us too. She told me she loved me (unprompted) at least 10 times that day, while splashing at the water park or standing in line for the rides in the amusement park.
My six-year-old getting into the Splash Zoo spirit
After a long day filled with waterslides, roller coasters, and ice cream cones Karissa didn’t even complain when she got a blister from her shoe. But she did suggest, “Maybe next time you should take Leo to LEGOLAND for a special mommy-son day.”
Sounds like a good idea to me!
Splash Zoo opened over Memorial Day Weekend 2011. Read more about LEGOLAND Waterpark and LEGOLAND California amusement park.
What’s your favorite LEGOLAND attraction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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A Note from The Travel Mama: My daughter and I received free one-day entrance to LEGOLAND California and the LEGOLAND Water Park. I always share my honest opinions, no matter who pays!
Tags: California, children, fountain, kids, legoland, Splash Zoo, toddlers, water park, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 1 Comment »
Thursday, May 12th, 2011
California’s Pacific Coast is lined with darling beach towns, each with its own local flavor and stretch of beach. For the ultimate surfer town, take the kids to Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA.
Beach cruisers in front of a surfboard mural in Huntington Beach, California
Soak Up the Surfer Vibe
Dean Ormsby Torrence, of the surf music group Jan and Dean, is a proud town resident. The duo co-wrote their number one national 1960s hit “Surf City USA” about this very town with Jan and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. There are statues around downtown of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, an Olympic swimmer who is known as the Godfather of Surfing for bringing the sport from Hawaii to the mainland. The Surfer Walk of Fame is located along the town’s Main Street. Plus, Huntington Beach is home to the longest stretch of uninterrupted beach in California.
But what really makes Huntington Beach feel like Surf City USA is the surfer vibe that permeates the town. Madison Fisher, Manager of Huntington Beach Marketing and Visitors Bureau said, “Surfing is what Huntington Beach is all about. But it’s not just the act of surfing. It’s the culture and laidback attitude that’s everywhere in our town.”
A statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the Godfather of Surfing
Visit a Surfing Museum
To learn more about the history of surfing and legendary surfers like Duke Kahanamoku and Corky Corral (known as the first professional surfer), head to the International Surfing Museum in Huntington Beach’s small, walk-able downtown. Watch videos of surfers hanging ten on giant waves, listen to some classic surf tunes, and take a look at surf memorabilia and art.
Take Family Surf Lessons
Of course, there’s no better way to understand surf culture than by grabbing a board and catching a wave! Toes on the Nose surf shop provides professional instruction to anyone six and older. Wetsuits and surf boards are provided. Stand-up paddle boarding lessons, kayak tours, fishing charters, and beach cruise bicycles are available too.
Surfers catching waves in Huntington Beach
Dine Surfside
Like everything else in town, dining in Huntington Beach tends to be casual. Named for the famous surfer, a favorite local spot is Duke’s, located along the Huntington Beach Pier. Choose from fresh fish and seafood, steaks, sandwiches, and salads with a tropical flair. Kids can choose from standard favorites on the keiki (kids) menu. You simply MUST save room for a slab of Hula Pie for dessert, a fudgy ice cream concoction available in three flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and mint.
My kids got a big kick out of the 1940’s-style Ruby’s Diner, perched at the tip of Huntington Beach Pier over the ocean’s waves. Wash down hearty diner fare for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with one of their famous handmade milkshakes. Kids eat free after 4:00 pm on Tuesdays!
Ruby’s Surf City Diner
If you’re looking for a joint with tasty Mexican fare and lots of colorful eye candy to distract the kiddos, head to Fred’s Mexican Café. Grab a table on the second floor patio to soak up some sun and do some people-watching of the Huntington Beach foot traffic below as you sip a strawberry or lime margarita.
Spend the Night in Surf City USA
Huntington Beach is a compact town that makes a lovely day visit. However, to truly unwind and soak up the town’s mellow vibe, make reservations at a seaside resort.
Every Saturday afternoon, guests of the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa are treated to complimentary sandcastle building lessons from Dig It! SandCastles. If you’re looking for some grown-up time, check kids (aged three to 12) into Camp Hyatt while you relax at the Pacific Waters Spa.
Waterfront Beach Resort
Another family-friendly option is the neighboring Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, where guests can enjoy a beach bonfire complete with a fiesta of food catered by Wahoo’s Fish Tacos and all the fixings for s’mores. I stayed at this hotel during a press trip last year and was joined by my family on the last day to enjoy the Waterfront Beach Resort’s gorgeous pool with its view of the ocean. It is the picture-perfect spot to soak up some California sun!
What’s your favorite beach town? Leave a comment below!
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Tags: California, Huntington Beach, kids, surf city usa, surfing
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews | 5 Comments »
Thursday, May 5th, 2011
The Gateway Arch and Cardinals baseball probably come to mind when you think of St. Louis, but there is oh-so-much more to see and do here with kids. This family-friendly destination is situated in heart the Midwest, making it a convenient road trip destination from numerous U.S. cities. Best of all? Many St. Louis attractions are free!
Feeding goats at Grant’s Farm
Head to a Farm
Located in the suburbs of St. Louis, Grant’s Farm was once the home to the 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. Now owned by the Busch family (yes, Anheuser-Busch!), the farm’s 281 acres are filled with 900 animals including kangaroos, giant tortoises, and elephants. My toddler’s favorite activity here is feeding milk to goats at the Tier Garten. The carousel and Clydesdales are a big hit too. Head to the Bauernhof to get free beer for Mom and Dad! Guests aged 21 and older can enjoy complimentary samples of Anheuser-Busch products. There is a fee for parking but admission is free.
Play in the Park
Spend some time outdoors at the massive Forest Park. At 1,293 acres it is bigger than Central Park in New York. More than 12 million people visit Forest Park a year. Rent bicycles or Segways, play a game of baseball or a round of golf, or kick back and listen to one of the many concerts held here. One of my favorite spots is the Jewel Box, an unbelievable greenhouse full of trees, tropical flowers, and fountains.
The Missouri History Museum
Tour a Trio of Museums
The St. Louis Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum are free and fun for families. Both offer special activities and workshops for children. If science is more your thing, check out the free St. Louis Science Center, which is home to a Planetarium, over 700 exhibits, and an Omnimax Theater.
Visit the Animals
Whenever I tell people the St. Louis Zoo is free, they wrongly expect it to a sub-par zoo. The impressive St. Louis Zoo is home to over 24,000 animals, many of which are rare and endangered. The Penguin and Puffin Coast is full of these tuxedoed birds splashing and swimming before you. River’s Edge is a 10-acre river environment filled with rhinos, hippos, elephants and more. There are small fees for additional activities like the Zooline Railroad, Children’s Zoo, Carousel, and Sea Lion Show.
The famous St. Louis Gateway Arch
Top the Arch
Of course, no stop to St. Louis is complete without visiting the Gateway Arch Riverfront. The Arch is the nation’s tallest monument at 630 feet. Getting to the top is easy and the queue is kid-friendly with lots of great things to look at. Trams to the top also leave every 10 minutes and the actual ride to the top takes just four minutes. Once at the top, stay up there for as long as you like to enjoy the views.
Discover Lewis and Clark
Back down on the ground, explore the Museum of Westward Expansion. Learn how the land looked when Lewis and Clark set off on their journey and discover the history of Native American population and the West. My son loved running around and looking at all the different scenes here.
Explore the River
The Riverfront is just steps away from the Gateway Arch. Walk the Riverfront and check out the plentiful shops and restaurants. Then hop on a replica steamboat and sail down the Mississippi River. Not only do you get to listen to the history of the Mississippi River but also you can take in the beautiful scenery along the shores.
Melissa Mitchell is a stay-at-home mom and blogger living in St. Louis, Missouri. Melissa writes on her blog Sippy Cup Mom about the adventures of raising a toddler! When not blogging, you can find her spending time with her family, planning her next Disney vacation and cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals. A social media addict, you can also find her on Twitter at @sippycupmom.
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Tags: attractions, carousel, free, gateway arch, kids, Missouri, St. Louis, zoo
Posted in Family Vacations | 1 Comment »
Sunday, April 17th, 2011
Every spring locals and visitors flock to the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, California to smell the ranunculus and pose for amazing photo opps among thousands of blooms. Take the kids to learn about nature’s beauty by tiptoeing through a maze made of sweet peas or while riding aboard a tractor-pulled wagon through over 50 acres of rainbow-colored fields.
Posing with my family at the Flower Fileds at Carlsbad Ranch
Walk through a Colorful History
The flowers were originally planted as a crop from which to harvest and sell bouquets. The beautiful blossoms began to draw crowds and soon became an unintentional tourist attraction. The first ranunculus bulbs were planted here in the 1920s. Years later a then-owner, Edwin Frazee, is known to have said, “If I had one penny for every picture that’s been taken of those fields, I’d be a rich man.” From that seed of an idea, the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch was born in 1993 when Frazee formed a joint venture with grower Mellano and Company. Today over 125,000 visitors come to the fields each year.
One of the whimsical floral displays in the Artist Garden
See & Smell Flowers, Flowers Everywhere
While you can gaze at numerous types of flowers here, rows and rows of ranunculus are what paint the acres in bright stripes of pink, yellow, orange, red, and white. Breathe in the sweet scent of more than 150 rose varietals and more than 80 varietals of miniature roses in the All-American Rose Selection Garden and Walk of Fame. Stop by a greenhouse stocked with well-known and unusual poinsettias. Orchid-lovers will be amazed by the stunning display of these gorgeous flowers on-site. The Artist Garden is a must-see spot filled with unique floral displays among caged birds and burbling fountains.
My kids stamping their scavenger hunt passports
Embark on a Scavenger Hunt
Upon entrance, children are handed a paper passport to fill with stamps from stations set up throughout the Flower Fields. This extra activity will help hold the attention of older kids who like a challenge. As a prize for getting all of the stamps, kids get a free chance to mine for gems at a sluicing station set up by the Carlsbad Mining Co.
Carlsbad Mining Co. gem mining
Mine for Gems
Kids love a treasure hunt – especially one that involves uncovering polished gem stones. The Carlsbad Mining Co. gives children (and adults) a chance to find their own pirate’s booty by sluice mining for gems like California settlers did in the early 1900s, by sifting through sand with water.
The challenging and beautiful Sweet Pea Maze
Get Lost in the Sweet Pea Maze
My children and I are suckers for a life-sized maze! The Sweet Pea Maze is a fragrant labyrinth with one entrance and one exit. While some corn and hay mazes we have visited are quite simplistic, this floral maze proved to be a challenge for us and many other visitors. If you really want out, the entrance is fairly easy to find but it was more fun to seek…and seek…and seek the exit!
Take in the Flower Fields aboard a tractor-pulled wagon
Go for a Ride
The Flower Fields are huge, so be sure to bring a sturdy stroller or baby carrier of some sort if visiting with a baby or toddler. You can also climb aboard a tractor-pulled wagon (for an additional fee) to ride through the fields and hear commentary from an expert while you rest your tootsies for a bit.
The kids going for a slide in Santa’s Playground
Romp through Santa’s Playground
Your children will definitely want to stop by Santa’s Playground. While you can’t meet the jolly elf here, kids will adore climbing and sliding among the play houses and gigantic mushrooms that were part of the once popular Santa’s Village amusement area in Lake Arrowhead from 1955 to 1998. These vintage treasures were restored and brought to the Carlsbad Flower Fields in 2008.
Orchids in a greenhouse at the Flower Fields
Feel Special
There are special events each year at the Carlsbad Flower Fields like a Blue Grass Festival, an Arts & Crafts Fair, and a Mother’s Day Event. The Annual Kids Day features such activities as face-painting, animal balloons, magic shows and juggling. On the regular ol’ day that we visited, my daughter was enthralled by the tunes of local teen singer, The Luke Walton Band.
Workers gathering up ranunculas to sell in the Armstrong Garden Center
Take Nature Home with You
Before heading home, wander through the on-site Armstrong Garden Center to peruse a wide array of garden accessories, flowers seeds of all sorts, and plants and blooms for sale. Children can continue their nature lesson by planting some flowers, fruits, or veggies in a garden or planter at home.
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are typically open to the public March 1 through Mother’s Day each year.
Where is your favorite garden or flower field to explore with your kids? Let us know in the comments below!
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A Note from The Travel Mama: My family received free entrance passes to the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. I always provide my honest opinions and tips, no matter who pays!
Tags: California, Carlsbad, Carlsbad Flower Fields, kids, ranunculas
Posted in Family Vacations | 5 Comments »
Thursday, February 24th, 2011
India may be intimidating at first, but it is a cultural goldmine if you are willing to dig deeper than the superficial noise. Many think it’s crazy to travel with children to Mumbai, citing language differences, exotic food, congested traffic, and hygiene concerns. As a diehard Mumbaikar, who spent 18 years of her life in this city, I can tell you these are all minor hurdles to overcome to experience one of the most exciting places in the world, and show your children a cultural experience they will never forget.
Amarsons Park
Head to the Beach or Park
Take the kids to a Chowpatty or Juhu beach, not for a dip in the water, but for a spin on a Ferris wheel or ride upon a camel’s back and some cotton candy. Mumbai’s beaches do not serve the bikini-bathing crowd but are a popular location for families to enjoy an outing and snack or watch the sunset. You can also take children to the waterfront Amarsons Park or to the Hanging Gardens in prestigious Malabar Hills, where the Old Lady’s Shoe (a giant statue of a boot can kids can climb into and up) has delighted children for decades.
Sample Local and International Cuisine
Eating in Mumbai is not as hard as you might imagine because of the global influences in on its cuisine. You can get anything you crave, from a perfectly cooked filet mignon (you’ll pay for it of course) to a Big Mac (or Maharaja Mac, made with lamb instead of beef).
I encourage you to try the local food, ideally not off the streets, but in full-service restaurants. If you must eat street food (it’s tempting because it smells so good!), make sure to only eat what’s been heated and boiled thoroughly – no cold veggies or chutneys. And you can ask them to keep the spices down (say “mir-chee kum”). Drink only sealed bottled water and if you have an infant, it’s best that you boil that water in the hotel kettle as well. I used to boil a big container every night and refill from it throughout the next day.
Try places like Moshés in Cuffe Parade, with its outdoor garden for the kids to play in, Soam near Babulnath for local vegetarian fare, and Mainland China for “Indian Chinese” which I promise, is a unique cuisine in itself! For a more upscale experience, try the Sunday brunch at Blue Frog, with unlimited Grey Goose martinis (c’mon you deserve it) and Frog Kids next door, a program that will keep the tots engaged while you shake a leg to the live band.
A great place to visit for all of your shopping and dining needs is Phoenix Mills, Mumbai’s largest entertainment center with several food courts and restaurants. For authentic Mughlai (North Indian) cuisine, head to Punjab Grill. Ask them to tone down the spices and the kids will do well with a chicken curry and rice or just plain naan to hold them off till you can get to TGIF next door.
Gateway of India
View Architectural Wonders
Since India was a British Colony, Mumbai has some of the most spectacular examples of British Raj architecture. Older kids often enjoy a trip to the Prince of Wales Museum, the Victoria Terminus train station (renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus), or the Gateway of India, where the last British ships departed from the country. From the gateway you can take a ferry to the Elephanta Caves, to view a large collection of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures from the fifth to eighth centuries.
Take a Shopping Spree
A must-visit at Phoenix Mills is the Landmark bookstore with its humungous collection of books, movies, and games. You will find that books in India are cheaper than those in the West, so stock up on bestsellers and children’s stories.
Spend a morning walking down Colaba Causeway, where you can sharpen your bargaining skills and buy everything from pretty bangles and hair clips, to bags and slippers. Nip into one of the stores to purchase an authentic Indian kurta (a loose shirt that falls at the knees of the wearer), which will cost you the equivalent of $10 (as opposed to $50 or more at popular Western stores like Banana Republic and Neiman Marcus). A kurta is great makes a lightweight summer top or a cover up for the beach. You can also find adorable Indian clothes for kids and international brands such as Reebok and Benetton. Look out for Tantra Tees for cheeky, indo-centric souvenirs.
Many international baby product brands are available in Mumbai at stores like Just Moms on Bhulabhai Desai Road or Mothercare in Bandra or at Phoenix. Pampers and Huggies are available at every corner convenience store, as are Johnson & Johnson creams, bath washes, and wipes.
The lobby of the prestigious Taj Mahal Hotel in Colaba, Mumbai
Enjoy Impeccable Customer Service at a 4 or 5 Star Hotel
Indian hospitality at the higher end is impeccable. Particularly when you are traveling with children, you want to make sure that you have access to reliable, English-speaking resources in the event of an emergency. Plus, these hotels have pools and other amenities that can keep the children entertained when you need a day off from sightseeing or just to cool off from the heat. Because you are getting international standards, you will pay international prices. Contrary to popular believe, India is not much cheaper than the West when it comes to lifestyle and dining.
Don’t Dream of Driving
it’s best to hire a car and driver for a day (which will cost between $25 and $40 plus 10 percent tip). Your hotel can help you book one with a reliable company. Car seats are not the norm so bring your own. Be warned that you may need to ask the driver to slow down more than once to calm your nerves. Avoid public transportation at rush hour at all costs!
Teach Your Children about Empathy without Guilt
There is nothing subtle about Mumbai. One of first things this city thrusts in your face is its rampant poverty. As you fly into Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, you pass over the largest slum development you likely will have ever seen, and it will stick in your mind as you come across a beggar or homeless person everywhere you turn.
You want to help? Contribute to a charity that fights world poverty or give your doggy bag to the child standing outside the restaurant. Cash given, particularly to destitute children, does not usually stay in their hands very long. Teach your children about empathy without guilt. They will learn to appreciate what they have and perhaps be inspired to help others less fortunate throughout their lives. CARE is a global organization that does a lot of work with children in India as do many other agencies.
Enjoy your journey and namaskaar!
Kaamna Bhojwani-Dhawan is the founder of Momaboard.com an online community dedicated to parents traveling with young children. Like us at facebook.com/momaboard and follow us on Twitter @momaboard for everything you need to know about international family vacations.
Do you think traveling with children to India or other poverty-stricken locations is a worthwhile, educational experience or something to be avoided? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Tags: India, kids, Mumbai
Posted in Family Vacations | 4 Comments »
Wednesday, February 16th, 2011
Although my kids are somewhat seasoned travelers, I hadn’t taught them the proper steps needed to do the unexpected standby dance. We had to learn the moves quickly on our most recent hockey trip with my son’s team. Since we booked a short 45-minute flight between Phoenix and Las Vegas, it didn’t occur to me to warn my kids about the possibility of flight delays, flying standby, and lost luggage. And I wasn’t prepared for my 9-year-old daughter’s tears as it all unfolded, the embarrassment this would cause her 13-year-old brother, or the pressure this would all place upon me.
Photo by Amy Stebbins
On the trip out, due to delayed flights from inclement weather elsewhere, our flight was not scheduled to take off for a few hours past our original departure time. We lucked out by nabbing standby seats on the next flight, with each of us seated in a middle seat in various areas of the plane. On the way back, we weren’t so fortunate. Our quick 45-minute trip home actually took seven long hours and we didn’t arrive at our house until two in the morning! But by now we were standby pros so the tears and angst were averted.
Here are seven tips for flying standby and handling flight delays with kids that I learned from this experience that may save your family time, stress, and unexpected emotional disappointment.
* Tell your kids about potential travel snafus that can occur. Discuss this BEFORE you are stuck on a standby list with a crying child who doesn’t understand.
* Consider the time of year, not the geography of the cities. Phoenix and Las Vegas have pretty mild weather, so it never crossed my mind that far away cities with weather issues would trickle down to delay our flight.
* Book a flight that departs early in the day during the winter. That way if there is a delay, you have more standby flight options available to get you home sooner.
* Prepare children for the possibility of being seated apart in a standby situation. Plan how to meet up when the aircraft lands since you may deplane at different times.
* Have activities, food, and cash on hand for unexpected airport delays.
* Electronic games are good, but eventually the battery dies, so have other activities on hand. We played travel versions of Checkers and Candyland to pass the time.
*Above all, keep your own stress in check because kids feed off your tension. Likewise your calmness will eventually calm them down. Note that I used the word “eventually.” Patience is a word I’m working on engraving in my tired parental brain!
Rachel Harris manages a manic household that includes a 13-year-old son, 9-year-old daughter, husband, and two adopted cats. Three years ago, she left her job at a local television station to better balance the growing demands of her family. Now she appears weekly on the Phoenix KTVK morning show Your Life A to Z with parenting and beauty tips. Visit her website ManagedMoms.com for tips, recipes, and fun tidbits about how to keep those manic mom schedules somewhat managed!
What tips do you have for handling flight delays and flying standby with kids? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Tags: flight delays, flying standby, kids, lost luggage
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 9 Comments »
Sunday, August 29th, 2010
Whether splashing in the waves, searching for fishies while snorkeling, or sipping a tropical drink from a lounge chair, nothing says “family vacation” more than a day at the beach! I asked some of the best family travel bloggers to tell us about their all-time favorite family-friendly beach hotels. From where to take a dip with babies and toddlers to the best beach hotel for active families, there’s sure to be something on this list that will appeal to you. As a beach-loving mama, I couldn’t resist including a favorite of mine too!
Last summer I posted a story about the 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools. There must be a lot of water lovers out there because this is consistently one of the most popular posts on Travel Mamas. Grab your sunscreen and sand toys - this year we’re headed to the beach!
Hilton Waikoloa Village on The Big Island, Hawaii
(Photo courtesy of Sharlene Earnshaw)
Most Superb Slice of Tropical Paradise by Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo
With its lagoon surrounded by white sandy beaches, three unique pools, relaxing spa, two championship golf courses, and dolphin program, it’s hard to beat the family friendly fun at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. Where else can you snorkel with sea turtles, slide down a 175-foot waterslide, take a luxurious coconut milk bath, and chow down Polynesian style at a luau without ever leaving the resort? Kids will love the crafts, games, and water activities they can participate in at the resort’s Camp Menehune, while parents experience some child-free time participating in one of Waikoloa Village’s many activities or simply savoring some peace and quiet at the adults-only pool. With so much to do at this tropical island resort, your family may never want to board that airplane home!
Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado, California
(Photo courtesy of Hotel Del Coronado)
Grande Dame of Beach Hotels by Colleen Lanin, a.k.a. The Travel Mama
Lucky for me, the Hotel Del Coronado on the Coronado peninsula across from downtown San Diego is a mere half-hour drive from my home. A tourist attraction in its own right, many people stop by “The Del” (as it is known to locals) just for the day to eat its famed brunch, enjoy its immaculate stretch of beach, peruse its fancy-schmancy shops, or snack on fresh crab legs and sip martinis in its swanky seaside bar. Adding to its old-school charm and glamorous vibe, many movies have been filmed here, most notably Some Like It Hot starring Marilyn Monroe. This is a favorite place to bring out-of-towners; its stunning beach and turreted architecture always elicit oohs and ahhs. After years of daydreaming of spending the night at this grande dame of beach hotels, my husband, then baby daughter, and I checked in for a long weekend. It lived up to all of my inflated expectations…and then some! During the summer, the resort offers family-friendly activities like S’mores Night on the beach and Flick N’ Float movie night, where kids can watch a film from an inner tube. For the holidays visitors and guests alike can take a spin on its oceanside outdoor ice skating rink!
Holiday Inn on the Beach Destin, Florida
(Photo courtesy of Jennifer Close)
Most Affordable Beach Hotel for Busy Kids by Jennifer Close, Two Kids and a Map
Holiday Inn on the Beach Destin, Florida is perfect for parents on a budget who are looking for activities to keep their kids busy. The hotel’s KidSuites come complete with bunk beds, a separate area for mom and dad, and video games. The Buccaneer Program for kids runs through the summer and includes carnivals, treasure hunts, Parent’s Night Out and much more. There is a DVD rental box for watching movies in your room but there is plenty to keep the kids busy in the clubhouse area. Besides sitting on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, there are two pools (one of which is inside for those rainy afternoons). The hotel is also very close to many family friendly activities like Big Kahuna’s Waterpark, miniature golf, and tasty restaurants.
Club Med Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico
(Photo courtesy of Corinne McDermott)
Best Beach Resort for Babies & Toddlers by Corinne McDermott, Have Baby Will Travel
Sapphire-blue Pacific water meets the golden sand of Playa Quieta to create a wonderful setting for a fabulous resort that welcomes every member of your family. Club Med Ixtapa Pacific offers spacious, renovated rooms, lush gardens and grounds, two great pools, plus all the usual Club Med activities. There’s the Mini Club for kids four and up, the Petit Club for guests aged two to four, and the Baby Club, for babies as young as four months. You’ll also find baby-welcoming amenities like cribs, high chairs, baby baths, baby food and snacks, as well as several stations for preparing baby’s food and bottles.
Viva Cala Mesquida Resort on Mallorca, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Andrea Fellman)
Best Quiet Island Beach Retreat by Andrea Fellman, Have Kids Still Travel
Mallorca is just off the coast of Spain and is apart of the Baleric Islands. It is the hottest European vacation destination and for good reason, it has over 200 beaches! Unlike the neighboring party island of Ibiza, Mallorca is a great family destination. Viva Cala Mesquida Resort is a perfect choice for a private family getaway. The hotel even has a mascot, Bufo the Galactic Super Hero! Bufo entertains the kids nightly at the Bufo Disco. Plus, the Bufo Mini Club offers childcare daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. The resort has two sandy playgrounds complete with all of the buckets, shovels, and toys your kids will need. The kiddie pool has a few different slides and is shallow enough to splash around with young ones. The beach is only a short walk down a paved path and it is set in a very private and secluded bay.
Forte dei Marmi, Italy
(Photo courtesy of Amie O’Shaunessy)
Beachy Destination Most Worthy of the Journey by Amie O’Shaunessy, Ciao Bambino
Most people think of Cinque Terre or Positano when they dream about the coast in Italy. Both are incredible and must be experienced. For families with young children, however, these destinations can be tough with rugged terrain and limited open space for running around. Not so in Forte dei Marmi. A plethora of beach clubs offering chairs, umbrellas, and fresh meals plus calm waters and a flat sandy beach make this venue a joy for a family beach holiday, Italian style. We recommend the California Park Hotel in Forte dei Marmi on Ciao Bambino. This hotel is just blocks from the beach with friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere for all.
Azul Beach in Riviera Maya, Mexico
(Photo courtesy of Kara Williams)
Top Pick for Pampering by Kara Williams, The Vacation Gals
I have at least a half-dozen favorite family-friendly beach hotels, but one that really stands out among my frequent tropical vacations in Mexico is the all-inclusive 98-room Azul Beach. Kids are greeted with smoothies (parents get champagne!). The resort partners with Fisher-Price, so you can borrow toys for use during your stay. Also on complimentary loan for little ones: a baby monitor, stroller, bathtub, bottle warmer and more. For older children (ages four to 12), every day brings fun activities at the Azulitos Kids’ Club. My family loved lolling on one of the comfortable beach beds just steps from the ocean, especially because we enjoyed the services of our very own beach butler! He brought us cold drinks and offered snacks, and when we left our bed to frolic in the mellow waves, he’d fluff the pillows, tidy it up, and leave our kids towel animals! If Azul Beach is booked when you’re looking to travel consider the sister property, Azul Sensatori, just down the beach. This is a newer and bigger property, with 438 spacious rooms, including guaranteed family connecting suites. Both Azul properties are near Puerto Morelos, on the Riviera Maya, a short 20-minute drive from Cancun International Airport.
The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida
(Photo courtesy of The Breakers)
Awesome Active Family’s Resort by Amie O’Shaunessy, Ciao Bambino
I get restless on the beach so it’s always important for us to find beach hotels that have plenty of alternate activities. The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida fits this requirement in every way. Golf, tennis, a world-class spa, boating, croquet, shopping, excellent restaurants…check! They also offer top-notch children’s amenities including a kids’ club for ages three to twelve and an enormous game room. There’s no getting bored at this hotel, even in bad weather. Top it off, the service is exceptional and there is nothing that staff won’t do to ensure every age is happy and relaxed while on vacation. Read our complete family-friendly hotel review about The Breakers for more information and offers.
Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club on Kauai, Hawaii
(Photo courtesy of Glennia Campbell)
Beach Resort Most Deserving of Multiple Visits by Glennia Campbell, The Silent I
My favorite beach hotel in the world is the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club on Kalapaki Bay in Kauai, Hawaii. My family likes to try a new place for every vacation, but Kauai Marriott is one of the few places we go back to repeatedly. The hotel is situated on a strip of golden sand overlooking peaceful Kalapaki Bay. The beach is usually far less crowded than Poipu on Kauai’s South Shore. If you don’t want to get sand in your suit, there is a narrow strip of grass shaded by palm trees where you can pull up a deck chair and read while the kids frolic in the gentle waves. The last time we visited, our nine-year-old took a surfing lesson right in front of the hotel while we sat and watched from the patio at Duke’s Canoe Club, tropical drinks in hand. The hotel also boasts the largest single-level pool in the state. We love the Kauai Marriott so much, we bought a half timeshare so we can go back “home” every other year.
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages in New Port Beach, California
(Photo from www.CrystalCoveBeachCottages.com)
Coziest Seaside Cottages by Debbie Dubrow, Delicious Baby
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages in Newport Beach, California are the perfect place to recuperate after a few days at Disneyland. These restored historic cottages, located in a secluded cove, aren’t fancy, but you and the kids will be outdoors enjoying the sunshine, the sand, and the tide pools all day anyway. Each cottage has a microwave and refrigerator, so while you won’t be doing any heavy cooking, you can certainly pour yourself a cold glass of wine after the kids are in bed. Reservations can be made up to seven months in advance and the cottages fill up quickly.
Did your favorite make the list? Leave comment below about which beach hotel you like most and why!
Learn more about these fabulous family travel bloggers:
Glennia Campbell (Beach Resort Most Deserving of Multiple Visits) writes and publishes the family travel blog, The Silent I, chronicling her family’s adventures around the world. The three of them have traveled to 25 countries, kid in tow, including Greenland, Libya, and the Galapagos. She is co-founder of MOMocrats, a political collaborative blog for progressive moms, and is a contributor to the Korean-American parenting blog, Kimchi Mamas.
Jennifer Close (Most Affordable Beach Hotel for Busy Kids) loves to explore and take new adventures with her family. She writes about her adventures on her family travel blog, Two Kids and a Map, and writes about exploring Pensacola at Pensacola with Kids.
Debbie Dubrow (Coziest Seaside Cottages) blogs about traveling with her three kids (ages five, three and one) at DeliciousBaby.com. Check out her kid friendly city guides for ideas about things to do with kids in cities around the world. Follow her on Twitter at @deliciousbaby.
Sharlene Earnshaw (Most Superb Slice of Tropical Paradise) is the Blog Editor in Chief for Trekaroo, and mother to two travel addicted toddlers. If you can’t find them enjoying the day at one of California’s spectacular beaches, then they are probably off discovering something new on one of their many travel adventures. Follow her on Twitter at @doubleadventure.
Andrea Fellman (Best Quiet Island Beach Retreat) is a mom who hasn’t lost her style to Motherhood. She is the creator of Savvy Sassy Moms an online destination and information source for everything fun and fashionable for moms, babies and kids. She also writes about her passion for traveling with kids over at Have Kids Still Travel.
Colleen Lanin (Grande Dame of Beach Hotels) Hey! That’s me! I’m the creator/editor of TravelMamas.com, a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in Babytalk Magazine (sister publication of Parenting), San Diego Family Magazine, and 101 Things To Do San Diego. Want to know more about me? Check out About Travel Mamas. It would be sweet if you would follow me on Twitter too at @TravelMamas.
Corinne McDermott (Best Beach Resort for Babies & Toddlers) is the mother of two and the founder of Have Baby Will Travel: Your Online Guide for Travel with Babies and Small Children. She’s appeared on Canada’s top-rated talk and morning shows delivering tips on travel with tots, and her writing’s been featured in such magazines as Canadian Family and Oh Baby magazines. Corinne contributes a monthly column to parent resource sites across North America as a Family Travel Expert. Connect with Corinne online at Have Baby Will Travel or on Twitter at @hvbabywilltrvl.
Amie O’Shaughnessy (Awesome Active Family’s Beach Resort & Beachy Destination Most Worthy of the Journey) is a mom with perpetual wanderlust and the editor of Ciao Bambino, a worldwide family travel resource providing the insight and information parents need to plan everything from weekend getaways to multi-week vacations with kids. Ciao Bambino makes it easy for families to uncover the best of where to go, where to stay, and what to do once they get there.
Kara Williams (Top Pick for Pampering) is a freelance writer who co-owns TheVacationGals.com, where she and her buddies cover all things related to family travel, girlfriend getaways and romantic escapes. She makes her home in the Colorado Rockies with her husband and two school-age children. Follow her on Twitter at @karasw.
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Tags: babies, beach, family travel bloggers, golf, island, kids, kids' club, luau, pool, resort, snorkel, spa, surfing, tide pools, toddlers, tropical drink, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews | 11 Comments »
Sunday, May 23rd, 2010
Looking for tips for keeping the kids happy and healthy this summer whether at-home or on-the-go? Listen to this interview with The Travel Mama (Me!) and Catherine McCord of Weelicious on Healthy Voyager Radio. I share some of my favorite travel resources and activities as well as what I think is most difficult about traveling with children (and how to handle it!).
Carolyn Scott-Hamilton (a.k.a. The Healthy Voyager) is the show’s host, a blogger, and the author of an upcoming series of books on healthy living. I interviewed Carolyn for a story here on TravelMamas.com in January 2010 on How to Stay Healthy & Fit While Traveling. Now we’ve swapped roles and this time I’m the one sharing travel tips. I hope you’ll swing by Carolyn’s site to listen in to our chat and then take a peek at her healthy travel ideas, recipes, and resources!
Tags: Healthy Voyager, kids, travel tips
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | No Comments »
Sunday, December 20th, 2009
My family’s favorite port during last year’s nine-day cruise through the Mexican Riviera was Zihuatanejo. Many visitors bypass Zihuatanejo, known as Zihua to locals, for its more upscale neighbor, Ixtapa. But a laid-back, authentically Mexican beach town was what we were looking for…and it’s just what we found.
If arriving by cruise ship, don’t waste your money or time signing up for a beach excursion via bus ride. Plenty of inexpensive water taxis are available to zip you across to one of Zihua’s beaches.
My family opted for a five-minute boat ride to lovely Las Gatas beach. Tourists and locals mingle here, lazing on its sandy shore and swimming along its curved shoreline.
Lounge chairs are yours for the day in exchange for a meal purchase from one of the beachfront restaurants. You won’t find what most Americans consider to be “typical” Mexican food here. There are no enchiladas, tostadas, or tacos – just fresh fish and seafood. However, most eateries will happily make a quesadilla de queso (cheese quesadilla) for the kids if requested. For grown-ups, I highly recommend the buttery, sublime camarones al ajillo (shrimp prepared with red ajillo chiles).
Giant rocks about thirty feet from the shore create a breaker, making for calm waters perfect for little ones. As a San Diegan used to hovering over shivering children in crashing waves, I took full advantage of the warm, shallow water at Las Gatas.
My husband and I rented snorkel gear from a beach vendor for a few bucks and took turns visiting the schools of tiny silvery fish that darted about below the water’s surface. We played in the ocean with our preschooler, sharing beach toys with generous locals. We held our nine-month-old son’s hands as he toddled along the shore. Mostly, we just hung out. We took in the view of our ship in the distance and the lush, tropical tree-filled green cliffs dotted with pale stucco homes with their red-tiled roofs. We drank limey beers while the baby dozed on our laps. We watched our daughter frolicking and splashing about for hours.
Zihuatanejo was everything a vacation should be…adventurous…fun…relaxing…beautiful.
What’s your favorite beach day destination? Leave a comment below!
For more information on this topic, see:
Tags: beach, Cruise, kids, Las Gatas, Mexico, Zihuatanejo
Posted in Family Vacations | 1 Comment »
Monday, August 17th, 2009
I’m a sucker for a good hotel pool. Give my family a pool with waterfalls and a kids’ splash area, and we’re in heaven! To compile this list of the best pools for children, I spoke to three Travel Mamas who are experts in the hotel and travel industries: Laura van Hoff of Juicy Hotels (a booking site that allows you to search for hotels by amenities and activities), Theresa Jorgensen of SixSuitcaseTravel (a travel resource website for larger families), and Amie O’Shaughnessy of Ciao Bambino (a worldwide guide of the best family-friendly hotels and resorts). I couldn’t help but include a couple of my family’s favorites, too. Now, let’s dive in!
Rope swing at the Grand Wailea, Maui
(Photo courtesy of Grand Wailea)
Best Pool for Toddlers and Little Kids
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Maui, Hawaii
For a splashing good time for toddlers and preschoolers, you can’t beat the Hyatt Regency Maui’s Keiki Lagoon. This children’s pool features leaping water fountains, a twisting waterslide and an island center where tots can play with sand toys. My family whiled away many happy vacation hours at this pool when my daughter was nearing age two and I’ve been dreaming about returning ever since.
Hyatt Regency Maui’s Keiki Lagoon
(Photo taken by Colleen Lanin, The Travel Mama, in 2006 – That’s my husband, Phil, and daughter, Karissa, on the slide)
Best Pool for Big Kids
Tabacon Grand Spa and Thermal Resort
Arenal, Costa Rica
Laura van Hoff of Juicy Hotels asked her teenage sons where they would go if they were to return to any destination solely for its pool. Both replied, “That’s easy, Tabacon Springs!” Costa Rica’s Tabacon Springs is intimate and relaxed. Laura loves its “thermal pool, heated by natural springs in a tropical setting.” She said, “It’s got a waterslide, but not a fancy American waterslide. It’s more simple, but boy is it fun!” Laura recommends this pool for bigger kids since it might be too toasty for tiny tots. She said, “It’s like a big, hot Jacuzzi.”
Pools at Tabacon Grand Spa and Thermal Resort
(Photo courtesy of Tabacon Resort)
Best Pool for Wacky Fun
Nickelodeon Hotel
Orlando, Florida
SixSuitcaseTravel’s Theresa Jorgensen recommends the water park at the Nickelodeon Hotel in Orlando for non-stop fun for big families. With seven slides and flumes, and easy access zero-entry, there is something here for children of any age. A 400-gallon tank spills water on splashers throughout the day but the highlight is when kids are “slimed” at 4:45 pm daily.
The daily “sliming” at the Nickelodeon Hotel pool in Orlando, Florida
(Photo provided by Theresa Jorgensen of SixSuitcaseTravel)
Most Unique Pool
The Atlantis Resort
Paradise Island, The Bahamas
This sprawling pool complex is resplendent with waterslides, one of which sends swimmers through a shark tank in a see-through tube! Atlantis recently added a children’s water play area with a Mayan-themed play structure featuring multiple slides, cargo nets, rope bridges, water cannons, and fountains. My husband and I stayed at the Atlantis once without the kids and we can’t wait to bring them with us next time!
View of the Atlantis Resort’s pools and aquariums
(Photo by Colleen Lanin, The Travel Mama)
Best Oceanside Pool
Four Seasons Punta Mita
Punta Mita, Mexico
The “Nuna” pool is the centerpiece of the Four Seasons resort in Punta Mita, Mexico. It is a free-form infinity edge pool with views of Puerto Vallerta’s horseshoe-shaped Banderas Bay. Amie O’Shaughnessy of Ciao Bambino said, “The illusion is that the pool extends right into the ocean, particularly at sunset—it’s truly breathtaking.” The pool also offers shallow splashing areas for young children.
Four Seasons “Nuna” pool at Punta Mita, Mexico
(Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons)
Best Lazy River
Azul Sensatori
Cancun, Mexico
Laura loves the Azul Sensatori in Cancun, Mexico for its lazy river, which encircles the property. Swim-up suites have lazy river access just steps from the door. Children will love the splash park and kids’ pool with waterslide. If they tire of the water, there’s a playground, Azulitos Kid’s Club, and Breeze Teen Club.
The Azul Sensatori lazy river pool in Cancun, Mexico (Photo courtesy of Azul Sensatori)
Best Pool with a View
Le Case del Borgo
Tuscany, Italy
Le Case del Borgo has a voluminous pool in an idyllic setting surrounded by the rolling green Tuscan landscape. Amie said, “I’m a view person and love pools surrounded by sensational scenery. I can be by the pool there and still know and appreciate that I’m enjoying Italy.”
Pool at Le Case del Borgo, Tuscany
(Photo courtesy of Ciao Bambino)
Friendliest Pool
Kona Village Resort
The Big Island, Hawaii
Often cited by guidebooks as the most authentically-Hawaiian hotel, Kona Village has thatched-roof bungalows and two great pools, one for babies and toddlers. It is Hawaii’s only almost-all-inclusive resort. Laura said, “This is my number one favorite hotel for families in the entire world!” She loves the spirit of Aloha exuded by the staff. Her kids love that they can order their own tasty non-alcoholic drinks from the poolside bar, like the “Cookie Monster” and the “Big Bird.”
The Bora Bora Pool at the Kona Village Resort
(Photo courtesy of Kona Village Resort)
Most International Pool
Ciragan Palace Kempinki Istanbul
Istanbul, Turkey
Amie promises a dip in the pool at Ciragan Palace in Istanbul, Turkey, is one you won’t soon forget. It is situated along the Bosphorous Straight, the channel of water that divides Europe and Asia, and this pool provides stunning views of both continents.
The infinity pool at Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul along the Bosphorous Straight
(Photo courtesy of Ciragan Palace)
Most Popular Pool
Grand Wailea
Maui, Hawaii
No list of fabulous pools would be complete without including the Grand Wailea Resort in Maui. Laura said, “The pool that I hear about over and over again that people love is the Grand Wailea pool.” The water complex at the Grand Wailea offers multiple swim-up bars, is adjacent to the beach, offers a Tarzan-like rope swing, and even has a water elevator for easy access to its numerous waterslides.
The water elevator at the Grand Wailea, Maui
(Photo courtesy of the Grand Wailea)
More about our panel of pool experts:
Laura van Hoff, Creator of Juicy Hotels
Laura hand-picked over 1,500 of the 111,000 accommodations in the Juicy Hotels database based on her tireless scouring of travel magazines and newspaper reviews, as well as her own experiences. Laura is a mom of two boys (ages14 and 15). She said, “I love researching travel, planning travel, doing travel. There’s nothing about travel that I don’t love!”
Theresa Jorgensen, Creator of SixSuitcaseTravel
SixSuitcaseTravel is a resource website that helps families of five to eight members find hotels that fit their needs by listing pools, room size, breakfast type and family-friendly amenities. Theresa has four children (a 15-year-old son, 11-year-old twin fraternal daughters, and a seven-year-old daughter). About hotel pools, Theresa said, “As a parent I love the free entertainment and the tiring-out-the-kids aspect. (My) kids love hotel pools because they’re not as crowded as public pools and they can swim for hours.”
Amie O’Shaughnessy, Founder of Ciao Bambino
Amie started Ciao Bambino as a planning service for family travel to Italy in 2004. Over time, she built a list of family-friendly options tried and tested by hundreds of families. In 2007 Ciao Bambino transitioned into an online self-service guide to family-friendly properties. Amie is a mom of one son (age six). As a pool-lover, she said, “Hotel pools are the perfect venue for everyone in a family to enjoy themselves. Kids are entertained for hours and parents have that rare opportunity to truly relax.”
Is your favorite hotel pool on our list? We just added a comments function to our site! Tell us what you think about any of the pools featured above or inform us of another spectacular pool not on our list by adding your comment below.
You might also like:
• JW Marriott San Antonio – Where Luxury Combines with Good Ol’ Family Fun
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort: A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time
• 10 Best Beach Hotels for Kids
• 10 Best Kid-Friendly Hotel Pools in the USA
Tags: children, hotel, kids, Pools, toddlers, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews | 30 Comments »
Monday, April 20th, 2009
As parents we often endure long flights, layovers, and unexpected delays with squirming, whining children and the stares or comments from less-than-sympathetic fellow passengers. Don’t despair! Airports and airlines are offering additional services and facilities to help parents make it through, and even enjoy, flying with children.
Travel Daddy Sean Huet from New York asked Travel Mamas if we could put together a list of parent-friendly airport facilities to help during long layovers.
Well, Sean, you will be happy to know many airports now offer play areas and even babysitting services. Boston’s Logan International Airport offers play areas with a baggage-claim-style slide and climbable make-believe air control tower. San Diego’s Lindberg Field offers rocking chairs for parents. Paris’ Charles de Gaulle airport provides “baby care” rooms with nursing seats and vending machines stocked with diaper-changing necessities. Some airports, like Athens International and Munich International, provide supervised childcare facilities to give traveling parents a break during layovers. To read more on airports that cater to kids, read Cookie Magazine’s Airport Survival Guide by Christina Ohly Evans.
Airlines are getting in on the child-friendly trend, too. Air France offers an in-flight kids’ channel that plays cartoons for the little ones. Virgin America has teamed up with Disney, the Cartoon Network and Warner Bros. for travel entertainment. Lufthansa offers its young passengers toys themed around its mascot, Lu the traveling stork. Scandinavian Airline provides children with Pippi Longstocking travel kits.
United Arab Emirates fulfills any parent’s needs with on-board baby changing tables and bassinets, kids’ television and movie channels, special children’s meals, and Emirates’ own online and paper magazines for kids. They will even provide children with a birthday cake if flying on their birthday!
Sean also said, “The other thing we have struggled with when traveling is finding decent kid food because restaurant kid menus are all breaded chicken nuggets, fish sticks and spaghetti with nary a fruit cup or organic anything in site.” I hear ya, Daddy! Here’s an article on the best eats in airports, Eating Well on the Fly, by Joe Brancatelli, Conde Nast Portfolio.com.
What is your favorite airline or airport for children? Leave a comment about it below!
For more information on this topic see:
• Airplane Carry-On Kit for Babies & Toddlers
• Air Travel Resources
• Air Travel Tips for Babies & Toddlers
Tags: airlines, airports, flying with children, kids, parents, restaurants
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 3 Comments »
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