How to Navigate New York City Like a Local

January 31, 2018 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on how to navigate New York City.  New York City (NYC) is a popular travel destination. Everyone is in a hurry to go somewhere.  So, if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city consider taking a tour.  Cruises such as Liberty Cruise NYC packages allow you to tour NYC leisurely. 

 

New York City travel tips

 

 

 

How to navigate New York City: 

 


Walk Properly

If you are traveling in a large group, walk independently instead of walking side by side. Furthermore, don’t hold hands.  The easiest way to incur the wrath of the locals is to walk side by side while holding hands.  If you want to get along with everyone, walk single file and keep moving.   Additionally, if you need to stop, get off the sidewalk.  It’s important to keep the flow of traffic moving.

 

Riding Bikes

If you have decided to rent a bike, obey all traffic laws to avoid getting into any trouble. Moreover, you should keep off the sidewalk because it is meant for pedestrians. Make sure that you ride on the paved streets.  Furthermore,  do not run any red lights. You should also remember that pedestrians have right of way.

 

 

New York City

 

Use the Subway Carefully

If you want to use the subway to get to your destination, you should have your card out and ready for swiping.  Don’t block the turnstile searching for your card.  If you start rummaging through your purse at the last minute, you will definitely irritate many people.

Once you’re on the subway be considerate of others.  Avoid sprawling out over too much space. No matter how tired you feel, you should not sit on the steps while waiting for the train because they are dirty.

 

Navigate the Grates Carefully

In Manhattan, there are many grates on the ground.  As a result, you should avoid them if you are wearing heels. On the other hand, if your shoes are flat you can walk on the grates.  Leave ground that is not grated for people with small dogs or those in heels.  Remember, if you displace the grates, you or others can fall ten feet down.  So, use caution to avoid injuries.

 

New York City

 

Use Phone Maps

If you are not sure of your destination, you can use a phone map.  They can help you figure out where you are in relation to your destination.  However,  you should not shy away from asking New York City residents because they are friendly people.

 

Don’t Use the Cell Phone When Walking

Even if you are looking at maps to figure out where you are going, burying your head in your phone is a bad idea.  You could end up falling into holes or bumping into people.  To avoid this,  you should stop if you want to look at a map or just ask for directions.

 

Watch the Umbrella

If you are carrying an umbrella, you should lift it up when you pass people.  This will help avoid crashing into them. Moreover, you do not want to injure someone and ruin a good day.

 

New York City is a Gawking City

The city is filled with attractions, performers, and celebrities. If you are not careful, you might not reach your destination on time.  As a result, make sure that you pay attention to your surroundings.  Most importantly, you want to avoid blocking the flow of foot traffic. If you have to stop, get off the sidewalk or stand flush with the buildings.

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Travel Tips, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: , ,

Olympia Cosmopolitan Rolling Travel Tote Review

January 27, 2018 by 10 Comments

Purchasing a weekender or a travel carry on can be overwhelming.  So, today I’m sharing my review on the Olympia Cosmopolitan Rolling Travel Tote.  Check out my other travel destinations and travel tips too.  Especially, one that will uphold the vigor of airport handling and pounding and being pulled in and out of vehicles.  Not only should the luggage be durable, but why shouldn’t it be fun.  I searched for a weekender that would hold my items, easy to pull through the airport, easy to store, fun, and easy to get in and out of a vehicle.  Traveling can be stressful, but I have found fun items can eliminate the stress.  When you look good, you feel good.

 

 

rolling travel tote

 

 

Olympia Luggage Cosmopolitan Map Rolling Travel Tote  –  It’s perfect for getting through the airport, hotel or from the car to the house. It opens from the top, which makes it easy to get items in and out of the bag.  The handle is retractable, and it has handles.  It fits in most overhead bins on airplanes.  Additionally, it allows you to carry as a tote if needed.  The material is quality, so it will endure the stresses of getting it in and out of the car trunk and rolling it through the airport and hotels.

 


 


 

 

Furthermore,  you can wipe this tote down with soap and water to clean it or use wipes if you’re on the go.  The wheels keep things moving, unlike many that I have had where the wheel wobble or get stuck.  It’s stylish and fun too.  I’ve gotten lots of compliments in the airports and hotels.

 

 

travel carry ons

 

 

I have two drawbacks for the Olympia Cosmopolitan Rolling Travel Tote, this one doesn’t have inside pockets.  Usually this would be a deal breaker for me.  However, it does have a pocket on the front of the bag.  It’s convenient for holding your phone, passport, airline tickets or a bottle of water.  Additionally, the tote may tip over if it’s not balanced.  So when you pack, may sure you distribute everything evenly.  This would never be a problem for me because I will use every inch of space with clothing, my laptop, books, Kindle etc.  Furthermore, it’s so cute that I would just pick it up if it tipped over and keep moving.

If you like this Olympia Cosmopolitan Rolling Travel Tote head over and make a purchase.  This would make a great gift for the world traveler, teacher or treat yourself.  I highly recommend it!

Filed Under: Product Reviews, Travel Tips Tagged With: , ,

9 Items You Should Have in Your Travel Carry On

January 24, 2018 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m giving you travel tips on Items You Should Have in Your Travel Carry On.    Packing for a trip can be overwhelming.  Unfortunately, we have a tendency to over pack, and not plan accordingly.  A lack of planning leads to leaving something behind that we need or wished that we had packed.  So, getting organization is key, and the travel carry on should be a priority.   

 

 

travel carry on tips

 

Check out our top items for the travel carry on:

 

Daily Medicines – If you take medicines daily place them in a pill box and carry them with you in you travel carry on.  Many travelers make the mistake of placing them in checked baggage.  However, if your baggage is lost or delayed you will be without your medicines.  Don’t jeopardize your health, plan ahead.

A Shawl or Light Blanket – I haven’t been on a flight yet, that didn’t end up cold.  It didn’t matter if it was a long flight or a short one.  Years ago, flight attendants gave out pillows and blankets to passengers.  But, that luxury is no longer available.  As a result, I take a light blanket on my flights.  I always purchase a light weight travel blanket that I can fold and easily place back into my carry on.

Flight and Travel Information – I always keep my itinerary and other travel documents in my carry on in a plastic document travel bag.  This includes hotel and car reservations, travel agency information and places of interest.

Passport – I keep my passport in a pocket in my carry on.  Maybe I’m being paranoid, but I don’t include it with my flight or travel information.  As a result, I still have my passport if the travel information gets lost. I can always retrieve my travel information from my phone or laptop, but trying to get another passport while in travel status can be a challenge.

 

 

travel tips

 

 

Water /Snacks – For some reason, I’m usually asleep when they bring the snack and drink cart through.  So, I pack a few snacks or a sandwich from one of the airport shops and a bottle of water in my carry-on.  If I have the kids, I also pack snacks in their carry-on as well as drinks.

Phone/Electronics Chargers – I place my phone and other electronic chargers in gallon baggies, and place them in my carry on.  If I’m able to find an outlet in the airport, I can charge my phone or use my tablet or laptop without running down the batteries.

Lightweight Change of Clothing and Toiletries – I always pack a sundress, extra pair of underwear, leggings or a pair of shorts & tee in my carry on.  Roll them so they don’t take up much room. I also carry a toothbrush and toothpaste.  You can purchase travel size toiletries at CVS, Walmart or Walgreens.

 


 

Travel Pillow – I sleep on my flights, so I always take a travel pillow.  They keep my neck from getting stiff or ending up in an awkward position.

Tissues/Hand Wipes – Personally, I have allergies and tissues are a must.  I carry them in my purse as well as my travel carry on.  Additionally, I take hand wipes and use them regularly.

We hope that will find our tips for your travel carry on beneficial.  You may also like: Using Travel Check Lists to Organize Packing.  

 

Filed Under: Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: , ,

The Benefits of Taking Bus Tours in New York City

January 23, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on taking bus tours in New York City.  With all of the different modes of transportation available in the Big Apple, choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming.  Furthermore, when sightseeing in New York, no mode of transportation is quite as enjoyable as a bus.  This city is known for having some of the best bus tours in the country.  

 

 

bus tours in New York City

 

 

 

Bus Tours in New York City

 

New York is Not Car-Friendly

If you are thinking about renting a car while vacationing in New York City, think again. Trying to navigate the traffic in this city can be very stressful. As a result, the last thing you want is to sit at a standstill for hours due to a traffic jam.

The best way to get around the city is by taking a tour bus. These buses will be able to take you to all of the attractions you want to see.  The money you pay for a bus tour will be worth it considering the problems you can avoid.

 

Reap the Eco-Friendly Benefits of a Tour Bus

Did you realize that the motor coaches used on these bus tours are nearly three time more efficient than commuter trains? They are nearly five times more efficient than transit buses.  Furthermore, can reduce your carbon footprint by taking a tour bus. If you are passionate about the environment and reducing air pollution, then using bus tours is vital.

 

Tour the City Without Stress

Are you going to be traveling with a large group?  Trying to cram multiple passengers into a sedan can be downright aggravating. Instead of feeling cramped,  ditch the sedan in favor of a tour bus. With a tour bus, you can travel with 10 to 12 of your friends comfortably.

Before booking a particular tour, we suggest that you call around to see which company can accommodate your party. Most of the bus tour companies will be able to give you this type of information over the phone. Once you have this information, narrowing down the list of available bus tour companies will be easy.

 

Knowledge Only Locals Have

Who better to show you the sights of New York than local drivers?  They will able to easily locate places Central Park or Times Square.  Rather than spending your trip lost and frustrated, entrust your travel needs to an experienced bus tour provider.

Before deciding to use a particular bus tour company, do your homework. Finding out what type of track record a particular company has is essential before hiring them. Looking at reviews from former customers is a great way to -figure out how well they have performed in the past.

Filed Under: Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: , , ,

VenusCare Travel Pillow and Sleep Mask Set

December 19, 2017 by Leave a Comment

This post contains affiliates links. If you make a purchase, I may be compensated. However, you will not incur additional fees. You can read my Disclosure Policy here.

I spotted this travel pillow and sleep mask set, and was offered a discount for a review.  I jumped on the opportunity to check it out.  I’ve been wanting a travel pillow for years, but never took the time to purchase one.  Airport prices are always more than I wish to pay. So, I ordered the set and waited for it’s arrival.  I’m always anxious to share my travel tips and travel destinations with you.  So, let get started with the review.

 

 

travel pillow

 

 

 


 

The set finally arrived.  A velour storage bag contained a pillow and sleep mask.  It will come in handy while trying to keep it clean and while it’s not in use when I’m traveling.  The bag has a drawstring for easy removal and storage.  It will fit perfectly in a tote bag or attached to a backpack.  When I’m taking a flight, I always carry a tote with a blanket, snacks, and my passport and cellphone.  So, I plan to attach the pillow to the handle of my travel tote.

 

 

travel pillows

 

 

I removed the pillow and mask from the storage bags.  The pillow is gray and the eye mask black.  I could see myself using it for a car trip, a flight or train trip.  I haven’t traveled on a train in years, but I do travel frequently on planes and road trips.  The pillow is constructed from memory foam.  Another great feature is the gray cover is washable.  Simply remove it, and throw it into the washer.  To be on the cautious side, I think I’ll let it air dry.

 

 

 

 

 

The pillow has a 360 degree design to support the head, neck and chin.  This design keeps the neck from getting stiff. I used to be a window person when I was flying, but I prefer the aisle now.  The design of the pillow will keep your head from falling sideways or forward.  Once I placed the pillow around my neck, I was a little disappointed.  The pillow seemed short.  As you can see in the picture, it is snug around my neck.  I fastened the strap to help keep it in place.

Even so, the pillow was still comfortable.   Additionally, I was able to lean back comfortably, which is what I would do on a flight.  The pillow stayed in place and supported my neck as I wanted.  I fastened the strap on the pillow to see if it would fit better or help keep the pillow in place.  It didn’t make a difference.  However, the eye mask fits nicely.  It’s doubtful that I would use on a short flight, but any long distance flight is fair game.  I love to sleep on my flights.

Last, I would recommend the Venus Care Travel Pillow.  The pros outweighed the cons.   Although I believed the travel pillow was short around my neck, the quality makes up for the flaw.  I’m hoping that it was just the pillow that I received.  Finally, you may also like Using Travel Checklists to Organize Packing.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Product Reviews, Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: , , ,

Family Travel Tips: Surviving Your First Trip with Kids

December 15, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Today, we have travel tips on traveling with kids.  If you are an experienced traveler, there’s no reason you shouldn’t continue traveling just because you have a family now.  However, many couples just stop traveling when their children arrive. They settle down and eliminate family vacations abroad until the kids are older and a little more self-sufficient.  So, lets get started so you can start planning your next vacation with your kids. 

 

 

 

family travel tips

 

Here are a few tips on traveling with kids:

 

Traveling with young children can be amazing. They look at the world with total wonder and explore without fear or prejudice. They’ve no idea about what they might find.  Furthermore, everything is new and exciting.  It can completely change the experience and the way you see the world.

So, having children should not stop you from getting out there and exploring the world. With careful planning and preparation, traveling can be even better once you’ve had kids.  The key is planning.

 

 

travel tips

 

Think About Passports Early

If you traveled with your own parents as a kid, you probably remember not needing a passport.  Or, being included on your mom or dad’s passport until you were 16.  Unfortunately, this option is no longer allowed.  All children now, even babies, most have their own passport.

Family travel tips should include Applying for your children’s passport. The process is like applying for a first adult passport. The exception is that you complete and sign the application for them.  Most importantly, it can take up to 3 months for an application to be processed.  So, start your child’s passport application as soon as you can.

 

Go Lightweight

At home, it’s relatively easy to use a large stroller. They fit in modern cars easily, and most people have no issue navigating their way around with them.  However, when you travel abroad they are really not convenient.  Think about the difficulty getting one on and off a plane or transporting it to the hotel or resort once you arrive.  A lightweight stroller or a baby carrier make an excellent alternative. Both would be ideal, as some tourist attractions and local sites may have no accessibility for a stroller.

You may also want to consider a lightweight travel high chair as you never know what will be available in local restaurants, hotels or resorts while you are away.

 

Pack Home Comforts

Many parents assume they need to pack lots of their kid’s toys to keep them entertained. This isn’t usually the case. Young children will play with whatever is available.  They don’t need their favorite toys to keep them amused; they’ll make the most of what they find.

However, a few comforts such as one of their favorite toys, blanket or a plush will help them settle and feel safe. This could make your life a lot easier.

 

traveling with kids

 

Sun Protection

Babies and young children have sensitive skin. They can burn much faster than adults and find themselves in a lot more pain when they do. Fortunately, there are some great ways to protect them. Sunglasses on an elastic strap, can help to protect their eyes.  Protective body covering with UV protection can help protect them in the ocean.  A wide-brimmed hat can help prevent both sunburn.  Of course, a high SPF sunscreen is always advisable.  This is good advice when it doesn’t feel that hot.

 

Packing Essentials

Most things you could need are available all over the world.  So, don’t worry if you forget something.  But, it is a good idea to take your children’s prescriptions or pain reliever, sunscreen, bath products, and any medications you and your children take regularly.

 

Keep in Touch

Your entire family will like to share in your child’s firsts. Take lots of photos, video chat with home and Send Postcards Online to show everyone what you are up to.

 

Eat Everything

The last concern for family travel tips is to consider food allergies.  If there are none, it’s a good idea to introduce them to as many different foods as you can. This can help to boost their immunity, help their digestion and give them a new experience. Many parents worry a lot about what their children will be able to eat. But, exposing them to different food early in life could ensure they’re not fussy eaters later on.

 

 

Filed Under: Travel, Traveling With Children Tagged With: , ,

Amazing Vacation Skiing Tips In the Alps

November 15, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing skiing tips in the Alps.  Going on adventurous holidays with little ones can sometimes be too much work. Traveling with children can be difficult, but the experiences and memories will be worth the preparation. When looking for a ski holiday there are resorts that offer the children’s classes, in chalet child care, and other child-tailored services.  Check out our travel tips in the Alps too.   

 

skiing tips in the Alps

 

 

Here’s My Skiing Tips in the Alps:

 

How to plan the best ski holiday with children

There are certain things you should think about when planning family ski holidays:   

·         What type of accommodation should be booked 

For families, a child friendly Chalet is the best option. You can choose from fully catered to self-catering stays.  Family chalets in the Alps can include high chairs, stair gates and even playrooms. 

·         What to pack 

Warm clothing; however, there are other things you should rent. It is more cost-effective to rent expensive gear such as boots, ski suits and jackets. Check with the resort before you book to get the best deal, or find out about local rental options. 

·         Do you need ski lessons

Children will definitely benefit from ski lessons at the resort.  Expert ski instructors can offer lessons, especially those who specialize in teaching small children.

·         Are lift passes included

When booking you will want to know if your lift passes are included. If you book early, you may get a good deal which includes your lift passes too.

 

 

skiing in the Alps

·         Is there in-chalet childcare and do you need it 

Another skiing tip in the Alps is having childcare facilities in-chalet or in the resort. You may need childcare for very small children who can’t ski for half days or even full days. There are lots of different options you can choose from.  

·         What other activities are available

It is really important to have plenty of other things to keep the family entertained in the resort. Knowing what other activities are available before you go will help you plan your time wisely. Finding the right resort with entertainment is essential for families. 

·         What is the après ski  

Après ski is entertainment after a day of skiing.  It’s not just for adults, so you will want to know what options you have for yourself and for the kids. Teenagers need entertainment during the evening too, so choose somewhere that is right for everyone.

·         When to go 

Depending on the age of your children, you may be able to get a great around school holidays. 

 

 

skiing in the alps

Which resorts are the best for families in the Alps

Some resorts are more suited to family ski vacations than others. Here are a few to consider: 

Les Gets

A picturesque resort that is very popular with families, Les Gets.  It is exactly what you would expect in an Alpine village. The surrounding slopes are great for beginners.  However, there’s also the nearby Portes de Soleil for stronger skiers in your group. Additionally, there is a cinema and an ice skating rink to enjoy.  

Accommodation in Les Gets is traditional chalet style. When you book a family chalet vacation here, you can expect family suites, playrooms and a layout designed specifically for families.  Childcare is also available. 

There are plenty of excellent restaurants serving local cuisine as well as international restaurants. 

La Plange

This high-altitude ski area is excellent for skiers of all abilities. There are different slopes in the area where all members of the family can have their lessons together or separately. La Plagne has lots of shops, bars and restaurants.  There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained when not on the slopes.

Additional skiing tips in the Alps is the Olympic Bobsleigh run, and the ski-dooing for the older kids. For young children there’s plenty to do too. They will love visiting the magical Igloo Village and exploring the stunning Ice Cave.

 

 

vacationing in the Alps

 

 

You’ll find a range of accommodations including slope side chalets perfect for a family stay. Again there are companies that offer childcare and family orientated chalets.

Les Bruyeres

An excellent resort in Les Trois Vallees for skiers of all abilities, Les Bruyeres is another Savoyard gem. The village is traditional style unlike many of the modern resorts in the area. However, there are still ample facilities including bars, restaurants, an indoor swimming pool and a spa.

The pistes are varied and very close to the resort centre. Plus, you can get passes that will cover you for the whole Trois Vallees area if you wish. Kids will also love the Speed Mountain ride which is an exciting toboggan run on rails found in Les Bruyeres.

The chalets are family friendly, but have extra touches for the adults too such as hot tubs.

Avoriaz 

This resort is child friendly and a car free resort. It is central to the Village des Enfants which is an unusual ski school for children from 3 to 16.  The concept that learning to ski should be through play started here, so it is popular with families.

Avoriaz is a more modern resort than the others mentioned.  But, the high-altitude location means there are hotels and chalets offering ski in ski out locations. There’s a strip of hotels bars and restaurants in the main area, as well as chalets dotted further out. If you can find what you are looking for here, the resort of Morzine is close by. 

A fun activity for kids to try here is ski jeering. A popular thing to do in Avoriaz, is to hold on to long reigns attached to a horse’s bridle and you are pulled along on skis behind it!

 

Are you ready for an amazing Ski holiday in the Alps with your children 

There are many ways to make you family skiing trip in the Alps amazing.  Seeing what these great family friendly resorts have to offer will give you plenty to think about.  With some planning, asking the right questions and knowing what your requirements are it will be easy to have a great holiday in the Alps. 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Vacation Destinations Tagged With: , ,

Smoky Mountains Vacation Tips

November 5, 2017 by 5 Comments

Looking for a great fall get away? I have Smoky Mountains vacation tips that you can’t resist. The Smoky Mountains have been added to my annual travel destinations.  They have become a part of my heart and soul.  I spent a week there several years ago, and fell in love.  I’ll be heading back annually, and staying for two weeks when I can.  Dolly Parton and other western singers praise the Smoky Mountains; I understand why.  They are truly one of the most beautiful creations on God’s green earth. It’s a great place for a family destination or weekend get away.  

 

 

 

smoky mountain vacation tips

 

Smoky Mountains Vacation Tips

 

I stay at the Fairfield Glade Wyndham when I’m in the area, which is approximately 60 minutes west of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN.  The Fairfield Glade Wyndham is located in a retirement community. It sits on 12,700 beautiful, wooded acres with a marina nearby.  Since I’ve joined the retiree club, it’s perfect for me.

 

There plenty of amenities, which includes a marina, indoor/outdoor pools, several lakes and golf courses.  There’s a 36-hole and three 18-hole golf courses.  They are listed among Golf Digest’s 75 best resort courses in America.  There are daily activities sponsored by the resort and a concierge to assist you with other activities.  You will also find walking trails and tennis courts. The marina has a variety of boats available for your pleasure, and provides an opportunity for a great photo opp.

Additionally, there’s a community center where the kids can play basketball, an arts and crafts center, a game room, and a media center.  There’s a post office, gift store and a Kroger’s grocery store located on the premises too.  With views like this, it makes a fall trip so worth it. Don’t forget your boat, there’s a boat launch.  

 

smoky mountains vacation tips

 

 

So, our unit had 2 bedrooms, a fireplace and a full kitchen.  There was plenty of room to gather around the table for a meal, or to play board games.  Additionally, there was a counter that could be used for additional seating.  The beds are delicious, and the fire place made the condo cozy.  I came home well rested.

Next, you will need a car to venture out to the surrounding areas.  If you head down I-40E, you will head toward Sierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, TN. The Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Theatre in Pigeon Forge is a great place for an all you can eat dinner.  It’s based on the Hatfield and McCoy feud that took place in Gilbert, WV, my home state.  Take a stroll around the building to check out the country items on display.  We weren’t disappointed, and had quite a few laughs.  There were humorous signs, an outhouse, replica of a moonshine distillery, and more.  If you’re in the area, make reservations. It’s worth a visit.

 

hatfield and McCoy dinner theatre

 

 

 

This truck is everything, lol.  It reminded me of the truck on the Beverly Hillbillies.  Great advertising I may add.

 

 

Check out this crooked, upside down building, Wonderworks.  We had to pull over to check it out.  Your kids will be happy that you did.  They have an indoor Rope Course and Laser Tag for the thrill seekers.  They also have unique programs for students K-12 to learn about Physical Sciences.  There’s Earth Science, Physics and Astronomy.   Block off several hours for this visit. 

 

wonderworks

 

 

Afterwards, we headed toward Cades Cove to check out the wild life in the Smoky Mountains.  It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.  The mountains in their fall foliage is stunning.  Majestic, bold, beautiful and mighty are a few adjectives that describes them.

 

 

 

 

Cades Cove Tennessee

 

 

Cades Cove is an 11 mile loop through the Smoky Mountains.  Additionally, there are streams, wildlife, churches, vacant cabins dating back to the 1800s and a peace that we often forget.  Through our journey we spotted this mama black bear and her 2 cubs.  Fortunately, we were able to watch them for about 10 minutes before they headed back into the woods.

It was truly an amazing experience to get this close.  They seemed to be oblivious to the cars and people watching them.  Their fur is so shiny and coal black.  The one cub on the far left was adventurous; however, the other club stayed close to mommy.  When we first spotted them, the adventurous club was playing in a tree not far from mom.

 

 

 

Cades Cove Tennessee

 

 

 

We spent several hours just taking our time driving the Cades Cove loop and enjoying the views.  I suggest that you pack a picnic and enjoy your time there.  At the halfway mark, there’s an area to enjoy a lunch and restrooms if you need a break.

 

Surprisingly,  we didn’t see any deer.  Especially, since it’s deer season.  So, the time spent observing the black bears more than made up for the deer not entertaining us.

Last, on our way home we made a quick stop at the Russell Stover Candy outlet.  As a matter of fact, I picked up a few Christmas gifts dirt cheap.  So, be sure to treat yourself to some sweets before you head home.

Finally, I hope you enjoyed my Smoky Mountain Vacation Tips, and will consider visiting the Smoky Mountains for a family vacation in the summer or fall.  There are water parks and Dollywood Amusement Park if you decide to visit in the summer.   You may also want to visit Parrot Mountain in Sevierville, TN.

 

 

Filed Under: Vacation Destinations Tagged With: , ,

Planning a Family Vacation: A Chance to Get Together

October 12, 2017 by 2 Comments

Multi-generational travel is one of the largest-growing segments of travel.  According to the Travel Industry Association, at least three generations are traveling together. Every year, over 5 million three-generation families go on vacation together.  Unfortunately, this presents those planning the trip with a huge challenge.  How do you cater to everyone?

Thankfully, there are a number of ways you can create the perfect multigenerational vacation.  And, you’ll definitely be rewarded for your efforts. The benefits of family vacations range from spending quality time together to parents having a break from the kids.  So, use our travel tips to help with planning a family vacation.  Our top tips are below:

 

family vacation tips

 

 

Make Sure Everyone’s Involved

First, make sure everyone is involved in the decision-making process.  They’ll feel more invested in the trip because they’ve had an input into the overall decisions.  Before you book anything, hold a family meeting to discuss ideas. You can set up an online chat so you can all throw ideas around.

Choose the Right Accommodation

Furthermore, vacation rentals are often a much more affordable option for large groups. They allow you to choose the right accommodation that caters to everyone’s needs while also getting the privacy you’ll be looking for from your trip.

The goal of a vacation together is to spend quality time.  However, it’s still important to make sure people can have some time out. For example, you might want to look at places with individual units instead of a large villa.  Furthermore, those who don’t want to party late or need to escape from crying babies can go to their unit.

Just as important, it’s also worth booking everyone into airport hotels like the BWI Airport Marriott. When you’ve got a large group of people traveling together, organizing everyone to be on time can be difficult. So opting for an overnight stay at the airport reduces any risks of people missing the flight.

Spend Time in Groups

It doesn’t matter where you’re heading, there are going to be groups of people who want to do different things.  When you’re planning your family vacation, remember some people will want to go off and do their own thing.  That’s great.

Discuss what activities everyone wants to take part in.  That way, you can arrange small groups who can go off and do separate things.  While this is occurring others can babysit or relax by the pool.

When planning a family vacation, mix and match your quality time.  Set up activities with different members of your family. For example, grandparents could head off to do some sightseeing during the day.  Mom and Dad can go out a night and leave the grandparents to babysit the kids.

Other things to consider include self-catered accommodations. With different meal schedules and preferences, it can be difficult to find restaurants that cater to everyone. Plus, eating in gives you the chance to relax as a family.  Most importantly, it also saves money.

Making sure everyone on vacation is happy isn’t hard.  When you’re planning a family vacation, remember it takes a little planning, consideration, and flexibility.  You and your family will be enjoying the trip of a lifetime!

Filed Under: Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: , ,

What Not to Wear for a Passport Photo

August 6, 2017 by 1 Comment

passport photos

Have an international trip coming up, and you need a passport photo?  First, obtaining a passport photo is a major step to getting your passport.  Second, not following the State Department’s rules will certainly qualify you for a returned application.  So, before you head to the photo store to obtain a passport photo become knowledgeable.

Don’t count on the photographer knowing the rules.  Most don’t, so educate yourself before you leave home.  I had to have my passport photo retaken because I wore a headband.  I was so glad the photo shop was close to the passport application office.  However, it was frustrating and time consuming to have it done twice.

Here are a few tips:

Hats – No baseball caps, fedoras, straw hat, cowboy/cowgirl hats or any other head covering is allowed.

Head Scarves – Scarves worn for religious purposes are allowed.  However, scarves worn for fashion are not.

Headband – Avoid anything that will obstruct your hairline.  This includes headbands and/or scarves.

Glasses – Glasses are not allowed.  This includes prescription or sunglasses.

Uniform – Military, scrubs, police or security guards and/or pilot uniforms are not allowed.  Religious clothing is allowed.

A Smile –  As of 2016, the State Department does not allow passport applicants to smile in their photos.

Electronic Headgear – This includes earphones, Bluetooth or other electronic devices.

The State Department requires that an applicant’s picture not be older than 6 months. Why, because the State Department wants the photo to reflect your current appearance.  Furthermore, your photo must be 2 x 2.  Therefore, wherever you have your passport photo taken, they should return to you in the correct size.  As a result, it will need to fit into the appropriate area on your passport application.  You will want to implement the following too:

  • The background of the photo must be solid white
  • The photo must be in color
  • Photo paper should be glossy or a matte finish
  • Lay infants on a white sheet or infant blanket.  Next, place the white sheet or blanket in the carrier or on the area provided.  Most importantly, your child should be able to look into the camera, and their eyes must be open.

Finally, you may also like How to Obtain a Passport in 5 Easy Steps.

Filed Under: Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: , ,