Family Vacations in New York City

May 28, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Today, we’re sharing travel tips on vacations in New York City.   A trip to New York City might bring up thoughts of a romantic weekend or a massive Christmas shopping trips.  It might not be the first place that you think of when it comes to a family holiday. You might imagine busy streets, long queues, expensive restaurants and fancy hotels.  Certainly not the kind of place you’d go to with young children. But, these romantic breaks and shopping trips aren’t all that New York has to offer.

 

vacation in New York City

 

A vacation in New York City could be perfect. The city is packed with museums, playgrounds, parks, large toy shops and other brilliant family-friendly attractions. Your kids will love it, you’ll all get a chance to bond, and you might even be able to fit in some more grown-up excursions while you are there.

 

Family Vacations in New York City

 

Find the Right Hotel

Choosing the right hotel is essential if you want a successful, safe, fun and stress-free family trip. The hotel that you choose should have large rooms just in case you need to add extra beds or cribs.  Furthermore, it should cater to families with facilities and restaurants serving a range of food.  You might also want to find somewhere close to the attractions that you would like to see during your visit.  You don’t want to spend time doing too much walking or on public transport with tired and grumpy kids.

 

Prepare for Your Journey

If you can, a road trip might be ideal.  For example, it’s more comfortable for the kids, you can stop whenever you along the way, and you’ll have access to your own vehicle for the duration of your trip.

Whether you are flying, driving or taking the train, make sure you pack everything that you need.  This includes snacks, drinks, and plenty to keep your kids entertained for the journey.

 

 

vacation in New York City

 

 

Plan Some Events

There is absolutely loads to do in New York.  Some of it is suitable for children and young families, and some isn’t. If you want to be able to make the most of your trip and see as much as possible, it’s a good idea to plan your days.  Start looking online for the best child-friendly New York attractions, NYC show tickets that your kids might enjoy, and the best family-friendly eateries before you travel.

 

Visit at the Right Time

If you are traveling with children, it’s always a good idea to avoid visiting at the busiest times when there is likely to be long queues and crowded streets. You might also want to avoid high summer when the weather can be very hot, and prices inflated. Visiting between January and March, or September and November can be wise.

 

 

vacation in New York City

 

 

Study a Map

New York is quite easy to navigate. It is built in logical blocks, making it easy to walk around and find your way. But, it’s also absolutely massive. So, if you don’t want to spend time lost and confused, study maps before you leave to help you to get your bearings.

A vacation in New York City can be a memorable experience for you and your family.  Do your homework and check what places that you and your family would enjoy.

 

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What to Pack for Disney World Parks

April 28, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on what to pack for a trip to Disney World.  We spent a week in Orlando last December for my grandson’s ESPN Wide Word of Sports Disney football champion game.  We decided to hang out at Disney for a few days while we were there.  Fortunately, we’ll be returning December 2019. The weather was perfect for hanging out in the parks.   The last time we traveled to Disney, it was in August.  Never, ever again.  I simply can’t take that kind of heat unless I can wade into the ocean.  I’m adopting December.

First, I recommend carrying a backpack.  I stick my backpack in my luggage, and pack it when we’re heading to the park.  Here are a few items that I find to be essentials when heading out.  Especially, if you have kids:

 

Disney Tips

Poncho – You never know when you will encounter a shower or pouring down rain.  Luckily, we weren’t at the parks when we encountered pouring rain for hours.  This is when card or board games come in handy.  I grabbed a few at the Dollar Tree.  It’s easier than trying to carry raincoats for the kids.

Sunscreen – Even though it’s cloudy you should still protect your skin.  I apply a layer before we head out to the park and once again if the sun becomes hot.

Cooling Towel – A friend of mine gave me a cooling towel to use when I’m working in my garden.  I pack mine when I’m heading to the beach or an amusement park.  Disney was no exception.  I pulled it out a few times to cool off and get refreshed.  You can moisten it in the ladies room with cold water.  It is truly a treat if the weather is hot.  It’s great for cooling the kids down too.

Hand Sanitizer – You can never have too much hand sanitizer.  It’s great after touching the rides, handles or other areas utilized by people in the area.  If the kids want a treat or drink, I make them use the hand sanitizer.  If we have reservations to dine, I pass the hand sanitizer or head to the restroom to wash our hands.

Water Bottles – Head to the Dollar Tree and pick up a few Disney themed water bottles.  I fill ours with bottled water before he head to the park.  Most vendors will give you free water and ice if you ask.

 


 

Phone Charger – We found charging areas throughout the park.  So, don’t forget your charger.  Especially, if you use your phone to take pictures.  Most importantly, you may need it for emergency calls or to check your emails.

Snacks – Eating in the park can get expensive.  So, I carry snacks to help off-set the costs of the food expense in the park.  Sometimes the kids just need a little break and only want a juice box or peanut butter crackers.  They want to spend their time hunting Disney Characters or getting on the rides.  So grab a few packs of crackers and small juice boxes to add to your backpack.

Disney Itinerary – If you have a meal plan and have made reservations at various restaurants print out your itinerary or make sure you access the My Disney app.  You can check out where you’re supposed to be and when.

 

Disney World Tips

Aleve or Tylenol – I have a tendency to get a head-ache from the sun at times.  Aleve will usually take care of the problem for me.  It’s also great for back-aches.  Kid’s Tylenol is perfect for headaches or aches and pains too.

Band Aids – Great for knee scrapes or other accidents.

Wipes – I always carry a travel pack of hand wipes.  They’re great for wiping off hands along your journey in the park too.

Camera Battery Charger –  Be sure to charge your camera battery before you leave for the park or bring your charger with you.  There’s nothing worst than wanting to capturing a moment, and your batter dies.

 

Last, my list on what to pack for Disney World is not all inclusive.  However, it’s a great start.  You may also like Roll Out the Red Carpet When Planning a Disney Trip

 

 

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An Amazing Parade of Horses In Ogden, UT

March 29, 2019 by

Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite travel destinations, Ogden, Utah.  It is one of my all time favorite places to visit.  They host Pioneer Days Parade of Horses, and it doesn’t disappoint.  The artist who paints these horses are amazing.  Ogden, UT is about 40 – 45 minutes from Salt Lake City.  So, if you’re in the area check it out.

So, I discovered the horses when I was on business trip in Ogden, UT.  I decided to take a walk to relieve some stress after a business meeting.  Amazingly, the streets came alive.  As a result, Ogden has become one of my favorite travel destinations.  The mountains are beautiful, the food is delicious, the people are warm and the Marriott has yummy beds.  I’ll make the trip across country for those perks any day.

I’m going to share a few of my pictures of a some art that I discovered on walk along the streets of Ogden.  It’s called a parade of horses.  No, it’s not your usual parade through main street.  This parade can be found on the sidewalks around town.

 

 

 

travel destination

 

First, when I walked into the Marriott Hotel lobby, my usual spot to crash when I’m visiting, I spotted a replica of a horse with a beautiful painting on its body.   I snapped a picture for my Wordless Wednesday blog post.  However, I thought nothing else of it after taking the picture.  So, I headed to my room to prepare for the next day.  Ogden is about a 5 hour flight from Washington Dulles.  As a result, I’m usually suffering from jet lag.  The time difference doesn’t help either.

 

travel destinations
The next day I went to lunch with a few co-workers, and noticed more horses along the sidewalk.  They were full sized horse replicas, and ran along the sidewalk for as far as I could see.  I was in awe! I love horses, and had hoped to own a few.  However, that dream never panned out and I have accepted that it never will.
One of the ladies stated that I should take a stroll when I returned to the hotel that evening.  That’s exactly what I did, and I was not disappointed. They put on quite a show for visitors and residents alike.  The horses were simply breathtaking.  Some were on their hind legs and others in a grazing position. It was if they knew they were on display for everyone to see.
This horse is called Earth, Wind and Fire, and was painted by two artists. One was self-taught and the other attended art school.
 It was my favorite.
vacation destination

Next, this horse is called Cash Back.  The artist was a 17 year old student.  He was the youngest artist to participate in the Ogden Pioneer Day Parade of Horses.

travel destinations

 

I saw everything from a 1966 yellow mustang to one covered in candy bars.  The horses go on display around the 4th of July, and usually remain on display until October 1.  There are approximately 75 horses on display during the Ogden Pioneer Days celebration.  If the budget is tight, there are only 55.  Artists are from across the country, and each artist has a sponsor.  It takes as much work to display the horses as it does to paint them.  The horses requires 20 people to secure them to a concrete base and set them in their location. 

 

Hershey is the name of this horse.  A local high school artist produced this beauty.  He plans to enroll in Weber State University.

 

 

 

travel destinations

 

I couldn’t get enough of the horses.  So, I walked for blocks admiring them.  I wondered what inspired each of the artists.  Each horse has the artist’s name and the sponsor listed beneath it.  I wondered what I would have painted on my horse if I had the ability to paint.  Possibly a ballerina, my backyard birds or the beautiful Ogden mountains that stood so majestically in the background of the displays.

 

Appropriately, wanted is the name of this horse.  A 15 year cancer survivor is the artist.  He was a  high school junior.

 

 

 

vacation destination

 

 

A trained filled with children rolled by, and I thought maybe I would have painted a Choo Choo full of children.  Or, one of the historical buildings that lined the streets.  Furthermore, I admired the colors.  They were so warm and bright and every hue imaginable could be found on the horses. You could hear the children’s excitement when they saw the horses.  So, I giggled and giggled as I watched them run toward the horses.   Most importantly, I hated being a grown up at times.  I wanted to let my inner child out too.

 

Finally, it was a fascinating stroll.  But, with a heavy heart I bid Ogden farewell.   Sadly, I’ll be heading back east. However, it’s surprises like this that keep me coming back.  And, come back I will.

 

 

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Hiking Tahquitz Canyon in Palm Springs, CA

December 25, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Hiking Tahquitz Canyon was one of my favorite activities when I was vacationing in Palm Springs.  Palm Springs is one of my favorite travel destinations.  For thousands of years, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians called the Tahquitz Canyon home.  As a result, I decided to check out the canyon in the San Jacinto Mountains.  

 

 

 

Tahquitz Canyon

 

There is a $12.50 fee for adults and a $6.00 for children for the hike.  The money goes toward maintenance of the canyon.  The hike is approximately 2 miles and considered strenuous.  Bring a bottle of water, wear long sleeve shirts, long pants and wear either hiking boots or sneakers.  Furthermore, there are few areas with shade along the trail.  It is also rocky and steep.  You should be in pretty good shape if you want to accomplish this hike.

There’s a visitor’s center at the entrance of the canyon.  You can watch a 15 minute video on the Cahuilla tribe’s heritage and look at various artifacts before hitting the trail.  I decided to go with a Park Ranger since I’m not a hiker.  However, you can hike on your own.

Mortars were used to grind corn, beans, and acorns for mush.  You can find mortars throughout the canyon.

 

 

Palm Springs

 

 

We passed this stream as we were going up the trail.  It is feed by a 60 foot waterfall at the top of the trail.  For thousands of years, it provided the Cahuilla Indians with drinking water and pools to bathe and cool off.

 

 

 

Palm Springs

 

 

Tahquitz Canyon is full of plant life and mesquite trees.  Cahuilla  Indians were experts in using mesquite for cooking when meat was available.  Because meat was scarce, they ate mostly berries, mush and edible plants.  This plant hides an entrance to a cave.

 

 

 

Palm Springs

 

We finally reached the waterfall after an hour.  It wasn’t running at full capacity, but it was beautiful nevertheless.  It’s 60 feet and flows into a pond below.  The pond flows into a stream.  We relaxed at this spot for about 30 minutes while the Ranger explained the history of the waterfall and the habits of the Cahuilla Indians.

 

Tahquitz Canyon

 

The group listening to the Park Ranger history lessons.

 

Tahquitz Canyon

 

This is a photo of me by the pond feed by the waterfall.  It was about the only cool spot on the hike.

 

Tahquitz Canyon

 

 

This rock is where Tahquitz’s spirit supposedly lives.  Tahquitz, a Cahuilla Indian, misused his power and was banished into the canyon.  As a result, the canyon is named after Tahquitz, which means fireball or meteor.  Legend has it, that Tahquitz appears as a green meteor-like ball of fire.

 

 

Tahquitz Canyon

 

Finally, the history of the Cahuilla Indians is interesting.  What they ate, their clothing and rituals make the hike interesting.  The guided hikes last about 2-1/2 hours.  Make reservations for the hike.  The first hike of the day is the best time to spot bighorn sheep and a small bluish-black bird called the Phainopepla.  I didn’t see any bighorn sheep, but I did see the Phainopepla.

 

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15 Things to Do in Palm Springs, California

December 22, 2018 by 1 Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel destinations and Things to Do in Palm Springs, CA.  First, San Diego and Palm Springs are two of my favorite travel destinations.  I simply can’t get enough of either.  As a result, I’m encouraging you to visit both.

However, today I’m going to give tips on Palm Springs.  There’s so much to see and do.  Walking or biking provides the best experience for seeing everything around Palm Springs.  Lets get started:

 

travel destinations

 

 

Tahquitz Canyon – It’s approximately two-miles and loops along the Tahquitz River to a 60-foot Tahquitz Falls.  It is located in Coachella Valley near Palm Springs, California, and inhibited by the Cahuilla tribe of Native Americans.  It is lead by a park ranger who has great knowledge of the canyon.  Additionally, it has a beautiful water fall, which makes the hike worth it.  In addition, it is filled with wild flowers, cactus, rock ledges providing great views, history of the Indians, and more.  The mortar below was used to grind corn by the Cahuilla Indians.

 

 

 

 

Walk of Stars – Located in downtown Palm Springs, CA.  The walk has stars from many of the older legends like Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, and James Earl Jones.  The walk is unique, it honor celebrities and writers who have resided in the area.  So, if you love TMC and older movies, the Palm Springs Walk of Stars is worth the trip.

 

 

Palm Spings, CA

 

 

See’s Candy –  One of my favorite places to visit in Palm Springs.  The samples are worth the trip alone.  But, pick up a box to bring home.  You’ll be sorry if you don’t.

Statutes  –  Next, set a few hours aside and go on a search for the bronzed statutes that line the Palm Springs streets.  Some of the statutes include Lucille Ball, Sonny Bono, Gene Autry, Marilyn Monroe and more.

 

 

Palm Spring, CA

 

 

Bike Tours – If you love bike riding, consider renting a bike for the day.  You can ride through the celebrity neighborhoods or downtown Palm Springs on the bike loop.  If you need a break, park your bike and grab a bite to eat.  Check with your hotel to see if they offer free bicycles.  If not, there are rental companies that will rent them for a reasonable rate.

 

Palm Canyon Drive –  Palm Canyon Drive is the place to be for great food, people watching and great photo opportunities.  There are few  chain stores in Palm Springs.  So, dining is a unique experience.  Furthermore, there are plenty of boutiques, restaurants, and places to get ice cream or beverages if you’re out taking in the sights.  We where able to find a parking space with no problems.

 

Palm Springs

 

 

Wind Turbines –  I took this picture of the wind turbines heading into Palm Springs from San Diego.  The Coachella Valley is peppered with thousands of wind turbines.  They are used to generate electricity for the city.

 

Palm Springs

 

 

Ariel Tram –  May I suggest,  the tram to Mt. San Jacinto State Park.  You can hike a few trails, have a snowball fight or grab a bite to eat at the Pines Café.  Before you head up, grab a warm coat or jacket.  It’s 8,500 foot elevation to the top of  Mt. San Jacinto State Park, and takes about 10 minutes.  It’s an amazing experience!  The tram rotates 360 degrees while heading up and down the mountain.

 

LG’s Steakhouse –  If you’re into fine dining,  LG’s Steak House is a must.  It’s considered one of the best steakhouses in California.  Personally, I agree.  As a result, whatever you select will be delicious.  However, I would recommend the Caesar Salad and the T-Bone or Filet Mignon.  Not into red meat, try the seafood platter.  LG’s Steakhouse is perfect for date night or an office party.

 

 

LG's Steak House

 

 

McCormick’s Palm Springs Exotic Cars –  So, if you’re into exotic and muscle cars you must check out McCormick’s.  They auction cars from the 50’s, 60’s, convertibles, Rolls Royce, Porche and more.  Great photo opportunity, and a fun way to spend the day.

 

 

Palm Springs Exotic Cars

 

 

 

Celebrity Homes –  Also, I enjoyed searching for celebrity homes in Palm Springs.  So, grab a map of the homes and head out.  I loved that the homes were not huge mansions that celebrities live in today.  The homes are actually relatable, and much simpler in style.  This is a picture of Jay Leno’s Palm Springs home.  I also have photos of the homes of Natalie Cole, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Sammy Davis Jr. and more.

 

 

Celebrity Homes

 

 

 

Take photographs of  the Mountains  – Do you love the mountains?  I do!  I believe these are the San Jacinto or Santa Rosa Mountains.  You can find photography opportunity of the mountains just about anywhere in Palm Springs.  As a result, I captured this photo from the balcony of my room at the Riviera Hotel.

 

 

 

Santa Rosa Mountains

 


Cabazon Outlets –  Furthermore, if you love to shop or want to pick up a special gift before you head home check out the outlets.  The Cabazon Outlets has luxury shops like Le Creuset, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and more.  For $25, you can purchase a Shop & Play bag which includes: our VIP Savings Card, a shopping tote, lip balm, Under Armour gift, voucher for an Auntie Anne’s pretzel, water bottle with lanyard, and a rechargeable power bank.

 

Big Horse Carriage Company –  Also, take a carriage ride through the historic district, celebrity neighbors or an evening ride in a horse drawn carriage.  It’s perfect for the family or adding a little romance to your date night.

 

Lunch at the Riviera  Hotel –  The Riviera Hotel used to be old Hollywood.  However, it has been updated to a more modern décor.  I’ve stayed at the Riviera several times and I love it, and their lunch menu.  Sammy Davis, Jr., Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop frequented the Riviera.  Additionally, Elvis Presley performed and escaped to the Riviera when he need to be out of the limelight.  Also, Sonny and Cher were performers there as well.

 

So, make a note of what you want to see in Palm Springs and get to it.  It’s one of my favorite places to visit, and I hope to return in the near future.  Finally, you may also like Visit Parrot Mountain in Sevierville, TN.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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8 Household Items to Use as Packing Hacks

July 29, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips and travel packing hacks that you can find in your home.  Are you an unorganized travel packer?  Do you wish you had taken items to help with wet items or things that could spill on your return trip?   If so, you will find our travel packing hacks useful.  They’re inexpensive, but great travel accessories.  

 

 

 

packing hacks

Here a few travel packing hacks that you have in your home:

 

Grocery Bags – The first item that I recommend using in your packing hacks is plastic grocery bags. They are great for storing a wet loofah and shower gel on the morning that you will be returning from vacation or your business trip.

Also, they’re also perfect for swim wear that you may have used the night before or housing your shoes.   Grocery bags are great to hold sand for your umbrella or tent on the beach too.

Hand Towels – Next, hand towels are great for packing curling and/or flat irons.  I have had to use one or the other before heading to the airport for my return trip.  Wrapping a warm iron in the towel and placing it in my bag rids me of dealing with a hot/warm iron worries.

Gallon Freezer Baggies – Another household item to use in your packing hacks is gallon freezer baggies.  I pack my body lotion, makeup brushes, laundry detergent and other toiletries in baggies. They are perfect for capturing spills and keeping things organized.

Sandwich Bags – So, who says sandwich bags are just for sandwiches.  They’re great for packing bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings etc.

Jewelry Boxes – I save my jewelry boxes to store my earrings when I travel.  I love the ones that have the cotton piece in them.  They hold my earrings perfectly.

Newspaper – Additionally, I recommend using newspaper as one of your packing hacks.  I use newspaper or the paper from my hand bags to stuff my hats.  It’s a perfect way to keep your hat from getting crushed during the journey.

Bubble Wrap – I love burning candles or using a diffuser.  I use bubble wrap to keep my candle and diffuser from breaking on the journey.  It’s also great to wrap breakables that I purchase on my trip.

Kitchen Size Garbage Bag –  Last, kitchen size garbage bags are perfect for storing dirty laundry.  When I travel, I try to wash my laundry before I return.  However, I do have dirty laundry from the night before I return.  I keep empty baggies, grocery bags and kitchen size garbage bags in the bottom of my bags or luggage.

So, make sure you have a stash of packing hacks on hand.  You’ll be a frugal, professional packer in no time.  You may also like:  9 Items You Should Have in Your Travel Carry On.

 

 

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Valuable Tips to Get Affordable Last Minute Flights

July 23, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Planning a trip on short notice either out of impulse or because your busy schedule suddenly gave you a window?   So, a nice holiday abroad can be challenging. But, mothers traveling with their family don’t need to break the bank. Check out our travel tips on tips to get affordable last minute flights. With an average of 8 million people who fly to various destinations on a daily basis, you can book a last minute flight calmly. Skyscanner states that the key is flexibility. Flexibility allows you to book cheap flights. By the way, Skyscanner is one of the most trusted flight aggregator brands in the world.

 

 

 

affordable last minute flight tips

 

 

Check out our other tips on affordable last minute flights:

 

Last Minute Travel Deals

A popular way to save money when booking last minute is to look for vouchers and promo codes.  Vouchers and promo codes produce better results than trying to study airfare pricing techniques.  The pricing methods of airlines can be a bit confusing.  However, understanding how carriers determine the price tag of airfares can come in handy too.  Former airline planning executive Robert W. Mann’s statement to CNN Travel in 2017 says, airlines employ revenue management techniques where carriers charge premium prices to high value passengers.

If an airline notes that a certain route usually has leisure passengers, they will assume that said passengers will book relatively early. With this in mind, carriers charge premium prices to early birds. Furthermore, they adjust their prices based on the response of the market. Booking last minute, in this case, is beneficial to travelers. For business routes such as London to Frankfurt, booking early can save you a lot of money.  While booking late may mean paying the premium price.

 

travel tips


Letting Your Budget Decide

When scrambling for that much needed family vacation, choosing the right destination is often the first order of business.  Another way to get affordable last minute flights is to align your overall budget with your destination.  According to Life Hacks, this will ensure that you won’t be spending more than your budget.  Travel tools such as Wander, for example, allows you to input your overall budget along with your home base airport into the search criteria.  And in just a click, you will be shown a number of places that fits your budget.

As a result, mothers planning a last minute holiday should not be overwhelmed.  Simply counter the airline’s high prices by using promo codes and flight aggregators like Skyscanner and Kayak.  They can help you book affordable last minute flights.  Additionally, check out Wander and other similar apps as well.

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Roll Out the Red Carpet When Planning a Disney Trip

May 6, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on planning a trip to Disney. Nothing beats the feeling of an anticipated magical time.  Sure, every vacation helps you unwind.  However, a trip to Disney takes things to new levels.  No matter your age, a visit is sure to leave you warm, fuzzy, and feeling the magic.  So, check out our travel tips to ensure that you and your little princesses have a great trip too.  Let’s get started!

 

planning a Disney trip

 

 

The only downside is that you’ve got to do all the not-so-fun things first.  This includes getting on a flight. Unless you’re lucky enough to live nearby, you’re going to need to pre-plan.  By pre-planning, you can travel like a Disney Princess.  Whether you’re an Snow White or  Cinderella, you can bet a princess wouldn’t lose their head on a flight.  So, remember this when planning your Disney trip.

Few princesses would have to travel budget class.  In fact, they would have someone research how much to charter a plane.  But, let’s be honest who can afford private jets and a real princess lifestyle?  But, we can afford to at least take the princess mentality onboard with us.  If nothing else, it’s the ideal way to prepare for the magic that awaits.

 

 

 

Disney Vacation Tips

 

Here are a few tips on how a princess would travel:

Look the part

Most people don’t look their best when they step off a plane.  You know how it goes; hair sticking out where you’ve slept against an armrest or makeup smeared from all the stress. We’ve all been there. Do you think a Disney princess would make these mistakes?  Of course not. They’d step off that plane looking pristine.

Getting into that same habit could help you feel fresh and raring to go when you finally touch down.  But, how can you stay fresh on a flight?  It isn’t always easy.  When planning a Disney trip, keep a change of clothes in your carry on luggage.  Changing in an airport restroom isn’t exactly glamorous.  But, it will make a big difference on how you and little princesses feel after you land. Furthermore, opting for something simple like a sun dress shouldn’t cause too many issues.  Refreshing your makeup will help too.

 

 


 

 

When planning a Disney trip, taking cleansing wipes with you so that you can give yourself some semblance of a wash.  These steps will come in handy if you intend to head straight to the park after you land and while you’re in the park.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Look down on the kingdom

Another tip when planning a Disney trip is to book a window seat.  Depending on where you’re flying from, you may see some spectacular sights.  What’s more, the window seat provides you with a wall to rest your head on if you need a power nap.  After all, a princess wouldn’t let her head droop into the aisle while she was sleeping!  Plus, having a headrest ensures you aren’t stiff and sore when you arrive at the park.

 

Get a Disney fix

Take along a few Disney films.  This is a great way to get yourself in the mood for Disneyland.  In fact, it’s a great way to pass your flight.  It might be worth checking the in-flight entertainment too.  Given where your plane is heading, it’s likely they’re already showing a few Disney classics.  Just in case,  load a few onto a USB and watch them on your laptop.

 

 

 

Work some magic

Of course, the majority of Disney Princesses work a little magic wherever they go.  And, you could start your trip right by doing the same.  Something as small as making the person next to you smile could be all it takes to pass some magic along.  And, that could be a fantastic way to bring the vibe of Disneyland on board with you. After all, everyone in the park smiles and laughs together, especially if princesses are around!  So, start a conversation with the person next to you.  Invite them to watch your Disney film if they aren’t busy.  Just like that, you’ll bring a little magical spirit to your row of the plane.

 

 

Disney Vacation Tips

 

 

A final word

These steps could put you on the right footing for your stay at Disney. Whether you take all or some of this advice, you’re sure to arrive in the magical spirit.  Most importantly, you will enjoy every second of your stay count!

 

 

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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: , ,