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.

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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.

 

 

 

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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.

 

 

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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!

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How to Obtain Your Passport in 5 Easy Steps

July 21, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Do you have a destination wedding on the horizon or plan to travel internationally?  You will need to obtain a US passport.  No worries, we have travel tips on how to obtain your passport in 5 steps: 

 

how to obtain your passport

 

Complete Your Passport Application –  You can fill out Form DS-11 Application for US Passport on-line and print it.  You will need to know dates of marriages and/or your date of divorce as well as your spouses or ex-spouse’s birthday and address.  Sorry, I’m just delivering information.

 

Obtain Passport Photo – You will need to get a passport picture.  I had mine taken at CVS.  However, Wal-Greens, Fed-Ex, UPS, Rite Aid, 1-Hour Photo Shops, Costco are a few places who offer services too.   Your local Wal-Mart may offer the cheapest service.

Before you have your passport photo taken, familiarize yourself with the rules.  For example, you can’t wear glasses, a hat, or obscure your hairline.  I learned that lesson the hard way.  So, I wore a headband for my initial photo.  But it was not allowed.  You can’t hid your hairline.  Obviously, the lady who took my picture at CVS didn’t know that.  She just knew how to use the camera.  The lady who took my passport application questioned it.  Back to CVS I went.  Fortunately, it was close by.

 


 

 

Obtain a Copy of Your Birth Certificate – You will need a copy of your birth certificate with a raised seal.  A copy of your birth certificate will not be allowed.

 

Make a Copy of all Documents – Make a copy of your documents before you hand them over.  You may need the information if you have to make an inquiry about your application.

 

Find a Location to Take Your Application – The Post Office and the library accept applications in my area.  There is a $110.00 application fee for adults and $80.00 for children under 15.

 

It takes approximately 30 days to obtain your passport.  However, allow sufficient time to obtain your passport and to have any printing errors corrected.  They printed M instead of F for my gender.  Correct any printing errors, otherwise, you risk being allowed to board the plane or get through customs.  You will need to complete Form DS-5504 to have any errors corrected.

Finally, we hope that our tips on how to obtain your passport has been helpful.  You may also like Using Travel Checklist to Organize Packing.

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Airport Tips for Parents Traveling With Children

June 25, 2017 by 11 Comments

Today, I’m sharing airport tips when you’re traveling with children.  Some of us will be traveling by car to our destinations, and some of us will be heading to the airport with children in toll.  As we all know, traveling can be stressful.  However, traveling with children raises stress to a new level.

Summer is here! We’re all looking forward to a nice long vacation.  But, we’re wondering how to get through the airport with children and keep your sanity?  We have other travel tips for parents that will make you a professional traveler in no time:

 

 

airport tips for parents

 

Check out our airport tips: 

 

  1. Discuss expectations with the kids – First, let the kids know that they are expected to follow directions, and they are to stay with a family member at all times.  Once you get to the airport, discuss airport and plane instructions as well.
  2. Arrive early – Second, you will need plenty of time to check bags and get through security  Furthermore, you will need time to get drinks and snacks if you didn’t bring them.  Allow your children time to relax with an electronics game or book.  They may also want to checkout the planes on the tarmac etc.
  3. Take Advantage of Designated Lines – Next, you should know that not all airports have designated lines.  So, check with the airport to determine if their is pre-boarding for small children.
  4. Know the Procedures for Children  – Children 12 and under are allowed to keep their shoes, jackets on etc. on while going through security.  Furthermore, they will not be separated from their parents.  If you have an infant, you must remove them the carrier and carry them onto the detector with you.
  5. Children 13 and older must follow adult procedures – Children 13 and older must follow the same procedures as adults.
  6. All backpacks and carry on bags must be screened –  This includes your child’s.  So, make sure you are not carrying liquids or other items prohibited by TSA.  Allow yourself enough time to get beverages once you get through airport security.
  7. Pull Ups will come in handy  – If you have a child 6 or younger, use them.  It’s better than having an accident in the airport or on the seat of the plane.  Having to change out of wet underpants is a task you don’t need.
  8. Carry a change of clothes for the kids – Having a change of clothing with you for small children is a good thing.
  9. Wear slip on shoes and socks – Wearing shoes that you can easily take off and put on will help alleviate your struggle to get through the airport.  Remember belts, jewelry and other items can cause the detector to go off.  Put some thought into your dress for departure and your return.
  10. Pack carefully – You will have to get bags through security and through the airport.  Lugging heavy bags can be stressful, but also physically dangerous when trying to keep up with kids.
  11. Purchase ID Bracelets – Place an ID bracelet on your children.  Furthermore, give them instructions on what they should do if they get separated.  First, they should immediately found another mom or someone wearing a uniform.  Second, tell an airport employee.  Let them know that the airport employees will have them paged.  Last, they can show their ID Bracelet for assistance.
  12. Take advantage of early boarding – Airlines will allow travelers with children to board early.  This is one of the most crucial airport tips for parents that we have.
  13. Be patience –  Additionally, another one of most recommended airport tips for parents is patience.  You will need it.
  14. Baggage Claim – Furthermore, you must remain vigilant in getting your children through the airport.  Your last stop will be baggage claim.  A rest room break would be good at this time too.  If you have two adults traveling, I would suggest one stay with the children and the other retrieve the bags off the carousal.   Furthermore, a  few bucks for a skycap or cart will be money well spent.
  15. TSA Pre-check Clearance – A pre-check clearance allows you to by-pass removing your shoes or taking out electronics.  As a result, you can focus on the children and take them through the detector with you.  To fully maximize your pre-clearance, apply for your clearance before you make your airline reservations.  Additionally, you can enter your clearance number into the system when you make your airline reservations.

 

Last, allowing sufficient time to get through the airport is essential.  Furthermore, becoming upset and grumpy will make the trip unpleasant for everyone.  Most importantly, children will be excited at one point and frightened at others.  So, it is your responsibility to get them through both.

Finally, we hope you found our airport tips for parents useful.  You may also like: 13 Tips for Parents Traveling with Children 

 

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Fun Things To Do In Central Park

February 3, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Central Park is an 843-acre New York City gem offering an oasis of nature’s delights in the midst of a chaotic urban sprawl. Fortunately, this large patch of green provides visitors respite amid woodlands, meadows, lakes, wildlife and monuments.  With 21 playgrounds, rolling hills and tranquil spaces co-existing together, a day in this park promises to be unforgettable.  As a result, the whole family can enjoy a broad range of fun activities.  Today we’re going to give you travel tips on Fun Things to Do in Central Park.  

 

 

 

 

Here our list of fun Central Park Activities:

Bird Watching

First, explore 37-acres of winding trails, streams, rocks and hills known as the Ramble.  It’s a densely wooded, world-famous birding spot that covers from 72nd St. to 79th St.  Furthermore, Central Park is a well known migratory route and one of the best birding spots in the U.S.  It attracts birders from all over the world.  Some 250 species can be spotted here in any year.  Simply incredible.

 

Central Park

 

 People Watch in Sheep Meadow

Second, Sheep Meadow is perhaps one of the best people-watching spots in Manhattan. This 15-acre field of lush green grass north of 65th St. along the southern edge of the park.  We suggest that you grab a blanket and some snacks.  Furthermore we suggest that you mingle with the ocean of sunbathers, picnickers, and kite-fliers for a relaxing fun-filled day.  In addition to the fun around you, you may hear a performer strumming a guitar or join in a friendly game of Frisbee.

 

Ice Skating at Wollman Rink

If you happen to be in NYC during winter, this summertime amusement park morphs into an icy playground.  And  ice skaters of all ages and skill levels join for arctic fun.  Another thing you can do is catch an exciting game of hockey,  or indulge in some night skating, with a romantic backdrop of NYC skyscrapers.

 

Bike through scenic landscape

Next, Central Park bike tours are perhaps the most leisurely way to explore this iconic green oasis. Take a guided bike tour, ride beneath a canopy of trees and appreciate nature at its finest.  Stop at famous locations and points of interest, grab hundreds of fantastic photo ops, and learn fun facts from your guide while pedaling through the park.

 

Stroll through the Conservatory Garden

Take in the beauty while strolling the through this six-acre paradise, the Conservatory Garden.  You can find spectacular annual displays of seasonal flowers.  Enter the park at 5th Ave between 104th and 105th Streets.  You will be entranced by water fountains and famous sculptures.  Not only it will entrance you, it will be bursting with colors you’ll want to capture in print.

 

Central Park

 

Catch and release fish in the Harlem Meer and The Discovery Center

Enjoy this favorite free community pastime at the Harlem Meer.  Borrow a fishing rod and eco-friendly bait from the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, and let the fun begin.  You will find a flourishing pond with a variety of fish like carp, largemouth bass, and bluegill sunfish.  Additionally, you will find turtles, waterfowl, and birds.  Once you’re done just return your rods.  Be sure to learn about the many seasonal exhibits, musical performances, holiday celebrations and free education at the Discovery Center.

 

Go for a hike in the North Woods

Did you know that nearly one million visitors a year hike through these 40-acre woodlands?  The setting will make you feel like you’re in the Adirondacks.  In addition to the woodlands, you can enjoy the serenity of The Pool.  It is lined with cypress, weeping willows, and red maples, an idyllic setting for photographs.  This popular destination is the perfect place for spotting wildlife by streams.  Furthermore, you may find wildlife feasting on one of three cascades along rustic trails that will inspire and calm your senses.

 

 

Central Park

 

Also, you may also like New York City Travel and Sites From Your Favorite TV Shows.  Without doubt, New York City should be on everyone’s list of place.  Oh yes, be sure to have fun!We need to conclude this post, but we hope you found our Things to Do in Central Park tips helpful.

About the author:  Kabir Khan is a contributor for travel and sight seeing in New York City.  Be sure to check out Central Park Bike Rental .  Great way to get exercise and to check out Central Park.

 

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How to Save on Vacations: We Have 20 Tips

October 28, 2016 by Leave a Comment

While travel is not a household’s biggest expense, family vacations are expenditures that many families care about.  So, today we’re sharing travel tips to show you how to save on family vacations.  Furthermore, getaways can be expensive.  Particularly when traveling with kids.  Even so, here are 20 ways to push through your vacation expenses and save at the same time.

 

 

money saving tips on vacatins

 

 

 

1. Be Flexile on Flights 

Save big money on travel by flying during less popular times, such as early in the morning, late at night, or midweek. When booking online, use the flexible-travel-date feature that lets you compare fares for days on either side of your target date.

2. Book early

Book trips between 27 to 114 days in advance saves a significant amount of money. The prices of airfares, according to CheapAir.com, fluctuate until about 14 days out, when they reach their maximum.

3. Carry-ons

Avoid paying huge checked-bag charges by making sure that several of your suitcase adheres to the standard carry-on size (9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches). You can carry these bags on the plane and place them in the overhead bins.  Pack several large or a large suitcase for family clothing and toiletries.  Be sure to pack light.   

 

 

 

4. Hotel rooms

Call potential hotel rooms in your vacation destination and ask about discounted rooms.  AAA rates and any other specials can help cut cost. Do this before booking your hotel room.  Reservations can be made on-line.  Be sure to get a confirmation number and ensure your discount has been applied.

5. Vacation homes/condo

Consider booking a vacation home or condo rather than at a hotel. It will usually cost less and is more comfortable for the kids.  They also full or partial kitchens which can be used to cook some of the meals or house snacks.  

6. All-inclusive resort

When traveling outside the U.S., consider an all-inclusive resort, which includes meals, drinks, and entertainment. All-inclusive resorts offer maximum value while making budgeting for vacation easier.

 

 

vacation tips

 

 

7. Special promotions

Find online promotions related to your vacation. Attraction tickets are often less expensive when bought online, especially during certain days of the week.  If you don’t know where to start online, consider hiring a travel agent.  These agents work on commission and won’t charge you.

8. Coupons

Search the Internet for coupons you can use once you reach your destination. There are many sites that will show you how to save on vacations. Family deals are often offered when purchasing multiple tickets. Special Internet offers are also available when buying tickets online.

9. Deals

Find discounts and deals for your destination by using Groupon or Living Social. Also, check your destination’s local newspaper for specials and discount coupons. You can find special deals on How to Save on Vacations in local newspapers or the hotel you will be staying in. 

10. Transportation

Check to see if your hotel or resort offers shuttle service. You can eliminate car rental fees.  Use taxis or Uber, which can take you to outlying locations at a cost lower than a rental car.

11. Car rental

If you need to rent a car, go with a local car rental company instead of renting one at an airport location. Local car rentals help you to avoid high airport rates and fees.  Check to see if  they offer service to and from the off-site location. 

 

vacations savings ideas

 

 

12. Car seats for kids

If you are using a rental car you may need a car seat.  Renting a car seat can set you back more than $5 a day. Save on car seat fees by bringing your own car seat for your kid. 

13. Supplies

If you are driving, pack plenty of drinking water, bread, cold cuts, healthy snacks and other supplies. This helps avoid stopping and buying on impulse. Once you reach your destination, shop at the local grocery store for supplies. 

14. Vacation essentials

Bring basic vacation items such as sunscreen and water bottles. Bringing your own essentials is far cheaper than buying them in hotels and amusement parks.

15. Packed lunches

If possible and when you can, prepare bag lunches each day for adults and for kids,  This can help avoid spending more, particularly on fast food chains.

16. Travel needs

Buy water, snacks and everything you need for a trip at a grocery store instead of purchasing them at the hotel, which usually sell overcharged items.

17. Eating locally

Eating at local restaurants is not only less expensive but also makes the trip more of an adventure. Ask for suggestions from your hotel’s front desk or from your vacation home’s contact.

18. Rewards points

When booking your airfare, hotels, or rental car, use points you have earned from credit card purchases or loyalty programs. Also, use credit cards that offer extra bonus points when used at supermarkets.

19. Apps

Download money-saving apps that you can use for gas, sites along a route, local diners, and accommodations. Save them in your phone during the planning stages of your trip.

20. Off season

Consider traveling during off-peak times. It will be cheaper and is less crowded than traveling during popular dates. Many vacation destinations offer reduced rates during the off season.

We hope that you find our tips on How to Save on Vacations beneficial.  You may not be able to or need to implement them all, so just implement the ones that will save you the most.

About the Author:

Stephanie is a freelance writer who resides in Gilbert, Arizona.  She is co-owner of  How Much Is it.  Aside from spending time with her family, she also enjoys hiking, biking and scrapbooking

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13 Tips for Parents Traveling With Children

October 18, 2016 by 2 Comments

Any parent knows that traveling with young children isn’t the easiest thing to do.  At times, it can be outright challenging.  Especially, if you’re a single parent. But, most parents are known to be resourceful.  Which, is why we know they would love any travel tips or suggestions that would make traveling with children easier and much more fun!  Today, we have tips for parents traveling with children.  Let’s check them out!  

 

 

travel tips for parents

 

 

Here is a set of tips and tricks for all parents who wish to make the most of their globe-trotting experience with their children: 

 

 Don’t Forget the Medicine at Home

This is very important and something a lot of parents overlook. Do not forget the medicine! Bring medicine for pain, upset tummies, fevers, allergies, and any prescription medicines.

 

Book Transportation in Advance

When leaving on vacation with your child, it is important to think ahead. Transportation is so important.  Arrange a limo service from your home to the door of the airport terminal and back home. This eliminates parking the car and getting the children from the parking lot to the terminal. Also, don’t just rely on the fact that you will find a taxi when you get off the airplane!  Call the hotel to inquire about shuttles.  If you need to rent a car, make a reservation in advance.  Make sure the rental company has car seats and/or boosters if you’re not bringing yours.  Most importantly, most airlines will ship your car seats for free.  However, for a small weekly fee it may be more convenient to just rent.

 

Board Early

We know it can be hard to leave the house early when going on vacation with a small child.  However, you must give yourself sufficient time to arrive at the airport early.  This will allow time to allow the children and you to relax.  Additionally, most airlines will allow parents with children to board early. Boarding early will also release tension and stress. 

travel tips

 

Bring Toys and Electronics 

You will need to bring toys and electronics to occupy the children.  These are great while you’re waiting to board the plane, on the plane and occupying them at the hotel or resort.  You will need to bring chargers for the electronics.  As far as the toys, travel light. 

 

Don’t Be Afraid of Your Stroller

Some parents avoid bringing the stroller because it’s too heavy or too hard to carry around on vacations. However, we advise against that. A stroller can be a huge help, especially on vacations and in airports.  They’re great when you have to do a lot of walking. You also need to know that strollers don’t count as luggage.  So, they will ship for free. 

 

Do a Little Training Before You Leave

If your child is old enough to remember tasks, then it is wise to do a little training before you leave on your vacation. Explain to them what to expect and what is expected from them. Make it short, because we all know kids aren’t too good at paying attention for long periods of time.

 

Invest in a Child Tracker

The thought that you might lose your child is enough to make any parent break out in a cold sweat.  Get a child tracker. Research what other parents have used and recommended.  Most can be worn as a bracelet or attached to clothes. Pick the one you think is best for your kid!

 

Do Your Check In Online

Online check in has improved airports so much!  You can avoid lines by simply checking in online.  Procedures vary from airline to airline, so be sure to check your Carrier’s procedures.  Download any apps and make sure they are working properly before you head to the airport.  On-line check in allows you to breeze through the airport in no time.

 

Flight Attendants are Your Friends

Flight attendants are there to help you and you! As a parent traveling with a small child, you should take advantage of  as much as you can. We’re not saying that you should pester them with non-stop requests, but you shouldn’t feel guilty when you need something.  They’d be more than happy to help!

 

Research, Research, Research

Researching a hotel is one of the best things a traveler can do before booking a vacation. You need to know if a hotel offers babysitting and activities.  Also, ask if they have a crib, playpen or laundry service. Everything you need to have a great vacation!  Websites such as Hotels or TripAdvisor are awesome for finding out this type of information.

 

Noise Cancelling Headphones

A pair of good noise cancelling headphones can really make a difference when traveling with a young child. You can use them when your child is napping on the plane or train.  Make sure that you choose a pair that fits. 

 

Early to Bed, Early to Rise

When on vacation with a small child, it is very important that they go to bed early.  Making sure they are rested for the next day’s activities is important. Besides, if they go to bed early you get a little time to yourself. Unwinding, relaxing, and planning out the schedule for the next day.

 

Stay As Close the Attractions as Possible

When booking a hotel, do your best to choose a hotel that is as close as possible to the attractions. These hotels do tend to be pricier.  Also, you save a lot of time and you can be in and out of things such as museums, parks, and other sites that you can walk t

Finally, we hope that you find out tips for parents traveling with children beneficial.  You may also like:  How to Plan a Family Vacation.    

 

 

About the Author

Cristina Costea

Cristina is the Community Manager of BookSinglesHolidays.com, a themed travel website offering a vast collection of singles vacations & solo holidays. She is also a passionate traveler, cat aficionado and novice writer.

           

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

Pre and Post Vacation Cleaning Tips

October 10, 2016 by 4 Comments

tips for a clean house after vacation

 

Taking a vacation once a year is very relaxing. It helps you unwind and take a break from your busy schedule. By the time you resume your official duties, you feel fresh and energized. However, if not planned well, the last days of your vacation can be stressful as you try to run errands and do cleaning chores. Here are useful tips to help you manage the situation with minimal effort.

  1. Plan for your return even before you go on your vacation

Take care of some of the monthly routines before you leave. Pay any outstanding bills. If there are any utility bills that may fall due when you are away or soon after the vacations, contact your service provider and pay in advance. This will eliminate any anxiety due to late payments when you come home. It will also free time to do other things once you are back.

  1. Clean your house before you leave for your vacation

You do not want to be welcomed by a foul smell of dirty dishes or stinky trash.  Wash all dishes and put them away.  Empty the trash cans and keep them clean.  Throw out any food in the refrigerator that will expire while you’re on vacation.

  1. Tend to your lawn

You do not want to find overgrown grass when your return.  Mow the lawn and trim it before you leave.  You can return from vacation with a feeling that you don’t have to immediately attend to the lawn.

  1. Turn all the water taps off before leaving

Make sure all taps in the house are turned off. Especially, during winter when taps are susceptible to freezing. Also, make sure there are no running toilets or water leaks.  This will ensure that water does not spill and destroy your household items while you are away. Things can get messy and cause you unimaginable loss if your valuables get soaked in water.

Post-Vacation Cleaning Tips

You can travel peacefully knowing that you will have lesser issues to attend to when you return home. After enjoying your vacation, plan to travel home several days before you return to the office.  Always give yourself time to rest and get over jet lag.  It is unwise to return to work immediately after your vacation.  Especially if you have traveled a long distance.

Once you get home, unpack and relax. Sort the laundry and do a load when you can without pressure.  If you have pick up and delivery service for your dry cleaning, call your service provider.  If they do not pick and drop services, plan when you will take the laundry to them. Treat yourself to maid services to assist with the cleaning if you can afford it. This will allow more time to rest.

Use your extra time to catch up with your family and friends. If you bought gifts, visit and share the items. Tell them your stories about your vacation and allow yourself to enjoy the memories. Sharing your memories will  lift your spirit and leave you happy and emotionally strong.  Be sure to attend to any matters that could require your time before you return to work.

I hope these pre and post vacation cleaning tips will help you the next time you decide to head out for a little rest and relaxation.  What pre and post vacation cleaning tips do you have to share?

About the Author:  Beverly Jenkins is proud of her staff at The Tidy Maids house cleaning service in Raleigh, NC. She has 24 years of experience in house cleaning, customer service, and business operations. She knows all the tips and tricks and do-it-yourself hacks when it comes to cleaning and her clients’ homes are the best proof for that.

 

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