travel Archives - Mother 2 Mother Blog

What to Wear on a Winter Road Trip

March 21, 2018 by Rhonda Gales 2 Comments

Are you wondering what to wear on a winter road trip? Well, before you focus on your playlist focus on your winter wardrobe. Also, depending on how many hours you’ll be on the road, your clothing should be warm and stylish. However, flannel pajamas or workout clothes should not be an option. Especially, if you want to save yourself from embarrassment when you’re getting out of the car for a restroom break or to buy snacks. We have a few travel tips to help you pack suitable clothing for a winter road trip:

Ankle Boots

Since you’ll be inside the car for several hours, there’s no need for you to torture your feet with a stylish pair of heels. Comfortable ankle boots are a good option. Most importantly, your feet will stay warm even if you have to step out for a couple of minutes. Don’t forget to add wooly socks to your arsenal.

However, if you absolutely need to wear cute heels, carry them in luggage. You can switch once you have arrived at your destination. Knee-length boots are a good option for a winter road trip too.

Blanket Wrap Scarf

A blanket scarf is a cozy yet stylish way to keep yourself warm throughout the road trip. After all, it’s bound to get chilly as the mercury drops. You can wear this winter accessory any way you want. Either carelessly throw it around your shoulders or wrap it around several times for extra warmth. Furthermore, you can use the scarf as a warm blanket if you want to take a quick nap. Opt for a cozy knitted scarf that’ll act as an extra barrier against the cold.

Layers

Another suggestion on what to wear on a winter road trip is layers. Everybody knows that the winter season is all about layers. If it gets too warm, you can remove a layer or add a sweater if it starts to get chilly. So, divide your outfit into layers. You can wear wooly leggings or jeans as far as the bottoms are concerned.

Throw on a comfortable shirt and wear a sweater over it as an extra layer. If you want your outfit to be more feminine, you can also wear a sweater dress. Keep a spare jacket or coat with you in case it gets too cold. Add a knitted scarf or warm poncho to the equation. You have an effortlessly chic outfit that’s both comfortable without struggling with what to wear on a winter road trip.

Beanie

A bright or neutral colored, soft, knitted beanie will protect your head and ears from the blistering cold. It will also look super-cute with your outfit. When you’re contemplating what to wear on a winter road trip, think about the beanie providing extra warmth. Throw in some earmuffs to protect your ears when you’re outside the car or need to open the windows for fresh air.

Gloves

Don’t forget to put on a warm pair of gloves to protect your hands from the freezing temperatures. While mittens tend to be warmer, they don’t offer the same dexterity as gloves. However, if you won’t be driving opt for a warm pair of mittens instead. Mittens do a better job of trapping body heat and minimizing heat loss.

Moisturizer

You don’t want your skin to get all dull and dry. So, don’t forget to wear moisturizer. Moisturizer will keep your skin soft and supple throughout the road trip. Keeping your skin hydrated during the winter is crucial, especially if your skin is prone to dryness.

Most importantly, how do you plan on carrying your extra clothing and accessories when you’re on a road trip? A canvas bag or stylish week-ender is an excellent choice if you’re packing for the weekend. Don’t forget to carry toiletries, winter emergency supplies, sanitizers, moisturizers and of course snacks. A backpack will be a more convenient option if you plan on hiking afterward since you’ll be able to carry the bags on your shoulders. Remember to only throw in items that you absolutely need since you don’t want your pack to become too heavy.

So, there you have it. Use these tips to stock up on the most-wanted winter essentials. Now that you have our tips, you know what to wear on a winter road trip. Above all, don’t forget to have fun. Enjoy!

About the author: James Smith is a survivalist, who loves to write about survival skills and techniques. You can follow him at @JamesSmith1609.

Filed Under: Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: travel, travel accessories, travel tips for women

13 Tips for Parents Traveling With Children

October 18, 2016 by Rhonda Gales 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!

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.

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: family travel, travel, travel tips

6 Second Honeymoon Destinations

July 11, 2016 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Just the mention of the word ‘Honeymoon’ and one thinks of romance. First, a honeymoon is such a beautiful experience. So, why have it just one! Don’t stop at your first honeymoon, take a second, third or fourth. Every couple deserves a honeymoon. And one that doesn’t break the bank. Furthermore, it’s nice to get away from the normal routine of every day life. Especially, when you can spend some time alone with your partner. Many couples struggle to find alone time. Especially, as kids come into your life and responsibilities multiply. Because alone time strengthens and cements the relationship, a honeymoon should be important to every couple. Today, we’re going share honeymoon destinations. We hope you enjoy these travel tips.

Furthermore, taking a second honeymoon can be accomplished economically. The trick is to plan in advance. Also, choose a destination that offers the excitement you are looking for. Most importantly, choose one within your set budget. Here’s our pick of Top 6 Honeymoon Destinations That Are Exotic Yet Inexpensive:

SIKKIM

Sikkim, is a popular honeymoon destination in India. It is a place that offers a beautiful experience for travelers. The rich culture and natural beauty adds a magical and an exotic experience to the trip. Couples can enjoy the peace and serenity. Additionally, they can delve into the history and mouth watering local cuisine. Also, they can spend a few days just soaking up the multiple facets of Sikkim.

THAILAND

Next, Thailand is a beautiful beach honeymoon destination. It should come as no surprise that it’s always buzzing. Thailand has it all. If your idea of the perfect holiday is lying on the beach, shopping or just plain relaxing, you can find in Thailand. It’s budget friendly. It also offers a multiple choice of accommodations and entertainment.

Did you know that Thailand offers destinations with pristine waters and natural beauty? You can choose between being secluded by surrounding yourself with water or staying in the city. These pros make it an amazing honeymoon destination. You can try your hand at water sports and adventures and/or gorge on delectable seafood and local cuisine.

KERALA

Kerala in India is well known for its backwater and massage experience. Combine the two and you have the perfect honeymoon destination! Furthermore, imagine soaking up the sun while nestled in a houseboat. Or sipping on sweet and pure coconut water. A professional masseuse will help you unwind by soothing stressed joints and limbs. Isn’t the thought is divine! You can also indulge in some guilty food pleasures. Furthermore, you can marvel at the natural beauty. If you’re feeling adventurous, visit some of the beautiful temples.

BUDAPEST

Next, Budapest is a European delight! It is small, but oh-so-beautiful! The chain bridge across the river, the ruins, the castle and shops are filled with energy. Together they offer an experience that will leave you asking for more! Also, the thermal spas are a popular getaway for the locals and a must for every traveler in Budapest. You can choose from a variety of hotels, B&B’s, and motels. It’s a beautiful mix of peace and energy!

PORTO

Last, if you are looking for a Europe holiday, Porto city in Portugal is the perfect place. It’s full of culture and a marvelous experience for travelers. Next, the rich history, warm people, and great food adds to the experience. Lets not leave out the serene natural beauty Also, you can revel in the flourishing vineyards and exotic wine flavors. So, expect to be floored by the richness of culture and activity. Yet, you can also spend time relaxing and just be lazy!

Finally, you have our picks for the 6 Second Honeymoon Destinations. So, start planning an adventure full of love, romance and rejuvenation!

I hope that you found our honeymoon destinations beneficial. You may also like Second Honeymoon Travel Tips.

About the Author: Tejaswi Bhagavatula

An avid biker, published author and a regular blogger who has written for sites like Huffington Post, Life Hack, Better India, Times Network and more.

Filed Under: Travel, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: exotic places, honeymoon destinations, travel

18 Places To Travel Off Season

October 2, 2015 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on places to travel off season. I love to find travel bargains. First, off season travel gets you the most bang for your travel buck. So, I start planning my summer vacation off season. As a result, planning is essential. Deciding where I want to go, and then coming up with a ball park figure on how much it’s going to cost are essential in my planning. Enduring crowds is bearable, but my preference is for the crowds to be small and the prices reasonable when I travel.

I put together a list of 18 Places To Travel Off Season and when the best deals are offered:

New York in January – It’s the city that never sleeps. You can find great shopping, Broadway shows, sight-seeing, and dining in so many places. For example, Harlem, Manhattan, China Town, Soho and the list goes on.

Montreal in February – Brush up on your French. Because Montreal is considered to be cosmopolitan and is the second largest French speaking city in the world. Also, it is second only to Paris. Montreal is known for its museums, shopping and great food.

Italy in March – Next, Rome, Sicily, Naples, Venice, and Milan are places that I wish to see. Milan is famous for it’s designer shops and Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, The Last Supper. Also, there’s the canals in Venice. Italians are known for great pizza and pasta.

Rio de Janeiro in March – Rio is known for it’s world famous Carnival, beautiful beaches, and the infamous Sugar Loaf Mountain.

Rocky Mountains in April – You can enjoy the Rocky Mountains from British Columbia and Alberta in Canada. This includes Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico in the U.S. The mountains are approximately 3,00o miles from Canada to the U.S. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular in April.

Australia in May – If you like wildlife, Kangaroo Island is the place to go. Additionally, you can meet sea lions on the beach, kangaroos, koalas, penguins and more on the beach. Furthermore, you can also snorkel, dive or swim on one of the beaches. While you’re there, head to the Australian Alps and spend your time hiking.

Lake Tahoe in May – For me, either North or South Lake Tahoe will suffice. The choice is yours. Lake Tahoe borders the Sierra Nevada, state borders of California and Nevada. Tahoe South is great for skiing, boating, bike trails, and bar hopping. Tahoe North is great for biking, hiking and golf. Either way you will enjoy this freshwater lake surrounded by beautiful mountains and alpine trees. Lake Tahoe is the 6th largest lake in the United Sates. Great family vacation spot.

Dallas in June – So, if you’re a Cowboys fan this is a perfect city to visit. And there’s plenty of beef and history in Dallas too. To name a few, Sixth Floor Museum and Southfork Ranch, which is about 25 miles north of Dallas.

Thailand in June – Thailand is located in Southeast Asia’s Indochina peninsula. Known for its tropical beaches, royal palaces, ancient ruins and displays of Buddha. Add Asia to your vacation list.

Palm Beach in July – Great beaches, shopping on Worth Avenue and a tour of celebrity homes. Howard Stern, Tiger Woods, Serena & Venus Williams, and Rush Limbaugh are a few celebrities living in the Palm Beach area.

Caribbean in July – Choose from the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, St. Thomas or Aruba to name a few. Turquoise water, white sandy beaches snorkeling, diving and great food for reason enough to vacation in the Caribbean.

Las Vegas in August – What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. There’s plenty to do in Nevada’s Mojave Desert. Gambling on the Las Vegas strip, catch one of your favorite celebrity’s show, visit Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon or the Colorado River.

New Orleans in August – Looking for a diverse city with plenty of French, African, and American cultures? Head to New Orleans. It is located on the Mississippi River and near the Gulf of Mexico. It provides plenty of action around the clock. Likewise, if you like it hot, there’s plenty of spicy food to be found there as well.

Martha’s Vineyard in September – Martha’s Vineyard is only accessible by boat or air. Namely, vacationers head to Martha’s Vineyard for its beaches, lighthouses, farmland, and celebrity sightings.

Vancouver in October – Known for whale watching, Grouse Mountain, ziplines, Capilano Canyon and horse dawn carriages.

Riveria Maya in November – Next, Riviera Maya extends along the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula from Puerto Morelos to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Notably, its beautiful white beaches and the bluest water that you can imagine is a major attraction too.

Napa Valley in December – Last, San Francisco has hundreds of vineyards. Take a ride on the infamous Napa Valley Wine Train. In fact, it’s actually a restaurant in vintage Pullman railcars with views of the vineyards.

Finally, select your dream destination and start planning your next vacation today. Most importantly, you can save hundreds, possibly thousands of dollars with our list of places to travel off season. In conclusion, check out my post how to pack light for vacation and enjoy your time relaxing and enjoying the sights. So, what’s your dream vacation destinations? You may also like: 15 Things to Do in Palm Springs.

Filed Under: Vacation Destinations Tagged With: family vacations, travel, travel destination, vacation tips

11 Reasons To Visit St. Thomas

July 13, 2015 by Rhonda Gales

Today, I’m sharing reason why you should vacation in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. It is now one of my favorite places to visit, and I’ve added it to my favorite travel destinations. So, at least once a year I head to the Caribbean or some other destination on my bucket list. And, I always return with a positive outlook and feeling relaxed. I found St. Thomas to be truly breathtaking from the condo that I rented for the week. I don’t think I could have made a better selection. Let’s check out why you should visit too.

Here’s 11 Reasons Why You Should Visit St Thomas Virgin Islands:

1. First, these are pictures from my balcony, which overlooked the harbor in Charlotte Amalie. The view was just as spectacular during the day as it was at night. St. Thomas is hilly as you can see in the pictures. As a result, many homes and businesses are built into the hills. Reaching certain destinations can be a struggle if you’re walking around the island. If you decide to visit and rent a car. As a matter of fact, I would suggest a jeep. You may also want to remember they drive on the opposite side of the road in the Virgin Islands. If you’re not comfortable with that concept, cabs are plentiful.

2. Next, this is a picture of Blue Beard’s Castle named after the Pirate Blue Beard. The castle is actually a tower that sits on a hill. It was used as a look out by Blue Beard for ships coming into the Charlotte Amalie Harbor. The canons used by Blue Beard on still on the premises, Also, a statute of Blue Beard is pictured below. The tower is open several days a week for tours.

3. Cruise ships dock in St. Thomas. The ships actually passed my balcony before docking in the harbor. I captured these pictures after they had docked on the other side of the resort. They arrive around 6:00 – 7:00 am several days a week and normally depart around 9:00 pm that night. Cruise passengers must shop and explore the island between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.

4. St. Thomas offers world class shopping for the rich and famous as well as unique boutiques and shops for the everyday person. Many of the shops are housed in narrow alley ways, but they also have major shopping areas with stores like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Cartier, Rolex etc. They are a little to rich for my pocket, but you can also find flea market type items at Vendor’s Plaza. Nice place to visit for tees, jewelry and other items for souvenirs.

5. Historical churches and landmarks are a big part of St. Thomas too. This is the world famous Frederick Lutheran Church. It’s the oldest church in St. Thomas and the second oldest church in the western hemisphere. Also shown is the oldest building in St. Thomas, Fort Christian, built in 1671.

6. Exotic fruits and hot sauces are plentiful. It was interesting to see coconuts in their original state after being picked from the palm trees. What we see in our stores are coconuts that have the shell shown removed. The coconut has reached its final stage, and contains the coconut meat that we use for cooking. Fresh mangoes are huge on the island too. I’m a lover of all things hot, so I went in search of unique hot sauces to bring back to the states. I found the perfect stand at Market Square. The vendor allowed me to taste the sauces before purchasing to ensure I went home with the perfect sauce. I did!

7. I enjoyed watching the yachts of the rich and famous pass my balcony as they headed out to the Caribbean Sea and their next destination. You see million dollar yachts on television, but to see them in person is truly amazing. This one has a helicopter on board, see it on the back of the yacht?

8. I love eating native dishes when I’m traveling. Gladys’ Cafe came highly recommended. So I headed there for lunch. The cafe is downtown and specializes in Ox Tails and curried dishes. They were both amazing. The Cafe is very small. Pauline was our waitress and the only waitress. What amazed me the most, the cafe didn’t have a rest room. In the states, a business would not be able to operate.

Patrons were required to go outside and several doors down a small building housed the Ladies and Men’s rooms. Most of the establishments are open for either breakfast and lunch or they’re just open for dinner. Those that are open for breakfast and/or lunch close by 5:00 pm. Since many businesses depend on tourists, the money must be spread around.

9. Also, you can find Green Iguanas in many areas in St. Thomas. The Green Iguana is native to Central and South American. Wondering how they have populated the Caribbean? Biologist believe they arrived via hurricanes over the years. This is an older Iguana. Unfortunately, they loose their bright green color as they age. It appeared to be used to people and was enjoying crackers when I spotted it.

10. There’s nothing like relaxing with a little steel drum music when your vacationing in the Caribbean. As a matter of fact, one evening we were entertained by a brother and sister team pool side. In addition to Calypso, you will find Reggae which is popular on the island of St. Croix. Furthermore, salsa dancing in the Virgin Islands is a must too. So, be sure to brush up on your moves before you arrive.

11. So, the supermarket in the background below was about a mile from my condo. Some items were reasonable and some caused my mouth to hang open. For example, $9.00 for a gallon of ice cream, $10.00 for a gallon of milk, and $5.00 for a dozen of eggs. Needless to say, I didn’t purchase any milk or ice cream. Truthfully, it was cheaper to eat it out. In spite of the of the high prices, the views are awesome on the island. They make-up for the high cost of living. As a result, things balanced out for me.

Last, rent a vehicle. If you’re simply going to cruise around the island, I would recommend a convertible. Remember, the maximum speed limit is 35 mph on the island and it’s hilly.

Finally, I wish I could share all of my photos of this trip. It is a beautiful island. Unfortunately, I was unable to visit several places during my visit. So, I will be returning in the near future. In my opinion, turquoise water, beautiful beaches, great food, and nice people make another trip worth it. In closing, you may also like 18 Places to Travel Off Season.

Filed Under: Travel, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: family travel, travel, travel destinations, Virgin Islands

My Bucket List

December 30, 2012 by Rhonda Gales

Another year has come and gone. I started my Bucket List 3 years ago. Each year I pull it out to see what I’ve accomplished during the year.

I’ve given birth to a beautiful daughter, survived a divorce, given the United Stated government 35 34 32 years of service, raised a daughter as a single mother, sent her through college, watched her get married and give birth to a beautiful ~~son~~ son and daughter. I’ve traveled, made new friends and kept old ones, purchased a home, a luxury car and I’ve been able to bank a few dollars. I’ve survived my father’s death and become closer to my siblings. I’ve strengthen my faith in God, I’m giving back to the community, and I can truly say that I’m working to be an example.

Even at this stage of my life, I still have work to do. I’ve been thinking about retirement in the next 2 3 5 years and what I want to accomplish before and after I reach that milestone. I decided to make a Bucket List. Here are a few items that I’ve added or achieved to date:

Drive Across Country
Travel Abroad – Africa, Italy, Hong Kong, London, Thailand
~~Cruise To Alaska~~ (Decided to mark this off my list. I don’t cruise well).
~~Open a Brick and Mortar for Sugar Kisses Boutique~~ (Decided to mark this off my list. Not willing to work this hard anymore).
~~Plant A Vegetable Garden~~
Learn A Second Language – Spanish
~~Skydive~~ (Decided to mark this off my list. I’m not willing to take this risk)
Attend the Kentucky Derby
Eat Lobsters In Maine
Visit Martha’s Vineyard
See the fall foliage in the New Hampshire area
~~Spend a week in New York shopping and seeing a Broadway show~~
Go horseback riding on the beach
Add a sunroom to my hone
Travel to Hawaii, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Jamacia, ~~Virgin Islands~~
Plant flower beds along my new fence line
Build a greenhouse

I’ll be adding to my list as I contemplate the next phase of my list. Have you created a Bucket List? Let us know what’s on yours. If you haven’t created a list, name a few things that you would add to yours.