Travel Tip: Road Trip Recommendations

Travel advocate Wendy Perrin recommends the following for successful family driving trips:

Let each child play navigator.  Let each child pick an attraction or two during your trip.  Give your children a map of your route before you leave and let each one pick a stop or an activity each day. You’ll give them a sense of ownership over that day’s events that will keep them energized and interested all day.

Make the trip a treasure hunt. Create a fun trip challenge or goal to make stops more interesting. Pick something to find or photo at each stop such a tacky tourist souvenir, map, etc.

Give each child his/her own space. If you are able to set up each child in a separate row of the vehicle, great. If not, try crafting a divider between them (even if it’s just out of colorful tape).

Agree on how long you’ll drive between stops. To prevent children (and adults) from going stir crazy, put a time limit on how long you’ll drive between rest stops. It’s nearly impossible to make sure everyone is on the same schedule during a road trip. Someone is going to get tired before everyone else; someone else will get hungry; someone else will get restless. And if the driver is feeling good, he or she may want to push through…stretching everyone else’s patience. To avoid arguments and meltdowns from stir-crazy children, set a limit for how long each leg can be.

Whenever there’s a world’s biggest, longest, or quirkiest something on your route, stop and check it out. Rest stops are more than just a chance to stretch legs and burn off energy. They can be the source of fun memories and even funnier pictures.  Seek out quirky roadside attractions, like the world’s biggest ball of twine in Cawker City, Kansas, or the world’s biggest yo-yo, in Chico, California—or the world’s biggest anything, really. School playgrounds and children’s museums not far from the Interstate are other kid-friendly pit stops. That said, even “boring” rest stops can be amped up: bring a tennis ball, inflatable beach ball, or a Frisbee for games. Keep a few picnic basics in the car too; so that you can make a rest stop double as a food stop.

Prioritize pools. When choosing where to bed down each night, find a hotel with a great pool.  The end-of-day swim will help children work out any pent-up energy and can even serve as a reward after a long day of driving. A reinvigorating dip can be just as rewarding for tired parents.

Trip Review: Adventures in Africa

The Shapiro Family of Philadelphia (2 adults and 1 teen) experienced Africa this summer with travel to Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. Mom started the trip at the Sanctuary Retreats Gorilla Forest Camp nestled deep inside Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in southwest Uganda; the perfect base for gorilla tracking.  Bwindi has the highest concentration of primates on Earth and is home to half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park is inhabited by a population of about 340 individual Mountain Gorillas; almost half of all the mountain gorillas remaining in the world.  Groups of eight tourists are allowed to visit one of four gorilla families for no more than one hour per day – brief, so they would not be seen as “invading their space.” Each family has between 12-15 gorillas per group ranging in age from 6 weeks to 20 years. The mountainous trek to visit the gorillas took between 2-3 hours per direction. The task was monumental, but well worth it!

After this amazing experience, the family then met up for a two-week Tauck tour to Tanzania and Kenya.  The tour started in Arusha, Tanzania at the Lake Duluti Serena Hotel at the foot of Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania. The tour then went to Lake Manyara National Park for their first glimpse of giraffes, baboons, hippos and elephants along with hundreds of species of birds.  Later, they arrived in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, populated by an estimated 30,000 large mammals. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the largest calderas (a volcanic depression) in the world and contains a variety of ecosystems and an astounding concentration of birds and animals, including massive herds of zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles. They also had the opportunity to spot the Big Five – elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo, and rhinoceros – all in one day!

Next stop was the Oldupai Gorge, where, over 50 years ago, archaeologists Louis and Mary Leakey discovered the fossilized remains of some of the earliest known human species, an estimated 1.8 million years old. They then enjoyed the Serengeti’s amazing wildlife while staying at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge in Serengeti. The family said that this area was amazingly beautiful. While they ate lunch 24 elephants visited their watering hole which abutted the human swimming pool. Such a glorious sight! They also saw lions, zebras, hyenas, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, buffaloes, jackals, gazelles, and giraffes while on safari at the Serengeti National Park. 

The trip continued to Kenya and the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro which peaked over surrounding landscapes from more than 15,000 feet up. They stayed at the Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge in Amboseli National Park, where herds of free-ranging elephants and other wildlife like to roam. Later in the day they enjoyed a private lecture on the elephants of Amboseli.  An early morning visit to a Maasai village preceded a morning game drive in the park with plenty of more animal viewings.  Next up they visited the Mount Kenya Safari Club and animal orphanage which straddled the equator. This was the former retreat of actor William Holden. After settling in, they got a private visit to the nearby William Holden Wildlife Education Center and animal orphanage. This was a sanctuary for animals that have been orphaned or injured and need special care. It also teaches local children to cherish and appreciate the unique wildlife of their homeland.  They also visited the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to the largest resident black rhino population in East Africa and other members of the Big Five. It is also home to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, founded by Jane Goodall, which gives lifelong homes to orphaned and abused chimpanzees. One chimp in particular, Coco, stole their hearts. He had been kept in a small, standing cage for 6+ years. Now he is free to roam and be rehabilitated.

They also visited the Masai Mara National Reserve with several game drives. They stayed at the Fairmont Mara Safari Club, an elegant tented camp hotel.  The most amazing day of the safari was a sunrise balloon ride over the plains of the Masai Mara. Afterward, a special champagne breakfast awaited them in the bush!  A farewell dinner in a traditional boma rounded out the trip.
On the last day they flew to Nairobi where The Family Traveler arranged for them to visit the amazing David Sheldrick Elephant Refuge. They visited with 20+ baby elephants who were orphaned throughout Kenya. They all pranced past them to their own “rooms” where they are bottle fed. The smaller babies had blankets on them because their skin was too fine for the chilly Kenyan evenings. Men also roomed with the babies who were prone to waking up in the middle of the night crying out for their bottles. What truly generous gentlemen they were!  The Family Traveler adopted an elephant in honor of the family.  Afterward, the family said “Kwaheri” (goodbye) to the amazing countries they visited.

Travel Tip: Destination App

A new Hawaiian-themed iPad and iPhone app is available and geared toward children ages 5-8.  It’s a fantastic way to introduce Hawaiian culture to children before making a trip to the islands.   Malama Honua: My Voyage, the 35-minute “appisode” presents video storytelling and hands-on activities centered around the ancient Polynesian tradition of voyaging. Today, that tradition is alive and well on the Hawaiian double-hulled canoe Hokulea, which is currently sailing around the world using age-old navigational techniques.  With the interactive app, your children can learn how to make their own canoe while exploring Hawaii from the mountains to the sea. Taking part in various activities, young players gather and prepare materials such as island wood for the masts and local plants for the rope. Their guide, an animated white tern, leads children through the steps for becoming a junior navigator.  By the time they arrive in Hawaii, your chidlren will be able to teach you about the destination, from commonly-used Hawaiian words to the importance of the kukui nut!

Trip Review: Custom Ireland

The Gross Family from Philadelphia with 2 teenage boys (19 and 16) explored Ireland this month.  The Family Traveler created a custom itinerary for this well-traveled family based on their desire to explore the southern coast line of the Emerald Isle, have authentic experiences and stay in diverse accommodations within a specific budget request.  The trip started on the west coast with a flight into Shannon Airport and a 3-night stay at the Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel in Doolin.  The family enjoyed the hour ride to the hotel on winding roads especially since they are seasoned drivers of the left-hand side.  They thought the food and hospitality at Ballinalacken were great despite slightly worn rooms. A tour of the ancient castle located on the hotel grounds was a treat.  Another highlight was a sunset dinner at O’Donohue Pub overlooking Fanore Beach in the heart of the Burren with great seafood and views.  They recommend the Burren Perfumery for natural products using native herbs and also for afternoon tea.  The Cliffs of Moher was the best part of the Burren Way despite the challenging walk along the sea cliffs from Doolin to the Visitor Centre.  They used the bus for the return.  This active family also took an awesome Lord of the Rings Burren Tour mountain bike ride which they said required a fair amount of skill and effort.  They got to watch peat fuel being made and explored the Pol na Gollum (Hole of Gollum), the longest cave in Ireland. It is believed that the Burren landscape and this cave inspired J.R.R. Tolkien to write the Lord of the Rings.  The Fleadh Festival in nearby Ennis which showcases traditional Irish music and dance was fine, but surprisingly missable.  The car ride to Killarney was long, but tolerable because of a stop in charming Adare for lunch. The family recommends checking out the ferry from Kilrush which crosses the Shannon Estuary to shorten the drive.  In Killarney, they stayed for 3 nights in a 2-bedroom apartment at the Muckross Park Hotel and Spa which is located right in the national park.  The location was great because Killarney town is a bit over run by tourists.   Their review of the apartment was mixed since their view wasn’t that great overlooking a parking lot (although an hour long rainbow was nice!), but they did like having a kitchen.  They loved the hotel spa and free bike rentals.  Hiking the Gap of Dunloe was a commitment (1/2 day at least), but totally worthwhile. Their trip to the Dingle Peninsula was also special and the restaurants in town were a nice way to cap off to the drive.  Their journey to Kilkenny was long, but they stopped in Cork to break up the trip.  Their said their lunch at the English Market was not worthwhile.  They said that Kilkenny was a surprising highlight.  They stayed at the nearby Lyrath Estate Hotel for 3 nights.  The town had great pubs, restaurants and music.  The family enjoyed the Kilkenny Castle and grounds as well as the Rothe House, a 16th century merchant’s townhouse which is now a museum and gardens.  Their experience at the hotel had some contrasts.  The family thought the property was beautiful with a unique combination of old and new architecture.  They had nicely appointed rooms with great views from the 4th floor.  But some of the recreational facilities are in need of a serious update including the gym and pool.  At least there were scenic places to run on the property and the spa was lovely (although not discovered until late in their stay).  The breakfast spread was excellent, despite being overly busy and loud with lots of young families.  The trip ended in Dublin with a 2-night stay at the Brooks Hotel.  The hotel location was incredible and staff was so friendly. The famous Guinness tour which was totally commercial and yet really fun. Overall, the family had a fantastic vacation and noted that our recommendations were highly appreciated!

Trip Review: Cuba by Boat

Lauren traveled to Cuba in June.  It was everything she expected and nothing like what she expected.  This theme followed her throughout her stay.  As we sailed out of Key West on a charter boat, we thought about how far yet how close the island nation is to the US.  In just 3 1/2 hours of smooth seas we pulled into the Hemingway Marina in Havana to start our week long Cuba adventure.  Our days in Havana were spent seeing the tourist highlight as part of our required People to People program.  We started with a city bus tour showcasing all the large monuments to Cuba’s heroes of the revolution which appear all over the city.  We also learned about the city’s architecture and history on a walking tour of the Old Town, experienced the evening cannon blast at the La Cabana Fortress (the time when the city gates were closed for the night back in the 18th century), visited a local synagogue and heard about Cuba’s religious freedoms, saw the famous Tropicana show with 60 energetic dancers plus musicians and singers, purchased Cuban cigars and learned about the rum making process.  And we loved seeing all the old American cars that the locals keep in shape with new engines from China and having a drink overlooking the sea at the iconic and 5-star Hotel Nacional de Cuba.  Our favorite stop was Fusterlandia; home to Cuba’s most famous artist, Jose Fuster, who not only decorated his entire home with mosaic art, but the nearly entire neighborhood as well! Our touring outside of Havana included a trip across the island to the Bay of Pigs to learn about the CIA-backed paramilitary attempt to overtake the government in 1961.  The town’s museum and multiple billboards (some of the only billboards we saw anywhere) showcase the great pride of that event.  We also stopped to snorkel and have a meal in nearby Playa Largo.  Cuba’s preservation of their natural resources was a pleasant surprise and clear water provided optimal viewing for snorkeling and diving.  We also ventured to Las Terrazas in the interior of the country to learn about this pioneering eco-village that dates back to a reforestation project in 1968. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with a variety of recreation activities and the site of the earliest surviving coffee plantations in Cuba. Both locals and tourist were taking advantage of the beautiful setting high in the Sierra del Rosario mountains and we enjoyed a swim in the lake, learning about coffee and visiting a local artist studio.  The highways in Cuba were in good shape, but we saw few
vehicles on the road.  Most locals hitch rides to get around, but there are some local buses.  The boat then took off for nearby Varadero on the Hicacos Peninsula.  This is one of the largest resort areas anywhere in the Caribbean where Canadians, Europeans and others vacation at familiar resort chains.  We docked behind the lovely and fresh Melia Marina Varadero.  The area is ripe for marine activities such as fishing, diving and snorkeling.  Beautiful mangroves lined one side of the peninsula.  We also visited a nearby Sugar Cane Museum in Cardenas at a former sugar production plant that now showcases the mostly American made steam trains that were used to transport the crop.

 We had a lovely dinner and sunset at Xanadu Mansion which was built in 1927 as the retirement home of Irenee Dupont de Nemours.  We really enjoyed a day for relaxing beach and pool time with such a full schedule that is required by the U.S. government to qualify for a People to People tour.  Most meals were at private rather than government owned restaurants.  At nearly every meal, serenading with Cuban folk tunes was a popular method of entertainment.  Sometimes even throughout a meal.  Mojitos were always served (and sometimes cigars) along with a bountiful of food choices including fresh fish, lots of lobster and fresh meats along with plantains, rice, beans and vegetables.  Transportation was in a comfortable minibus and our guide and driver were precious.  Some translation issues were evident, but didn’t distract us from their ongoing efforts to keep us informed about our travel plans and providing plenty of information about their country’s history, politics, culture and dreams.  Our 3-hour sail back across the Atlantic Ocean to Key West on a sunny day with calm seas gave us time to reflect on our trip, admire the warm Cuban hospitality and also to appreciate our freedoms.

Travel Tip: TSA Security Lines

In response to long TSA security checkpoint wait times, several airlines have been working to help passengers get through the lines quicker.  Delta, American and United all offered their own resources to help the situation. Recently JetBlue announced that their top frequent flyers can apply for a free membership to TSA PreCheck.  Southwest is also now allowing their frequent flyer members to sign up for TSA PreCheck with a payment of 9,000 Rapid Rewards points, rather than the $85 fee required for the membership. You can also check TSA Checkpoint wait times at https://apps.tsa.dhs.gov/mytsa/wait_times_home.aspx.

Travel Review: London and Paris

The Harrison Family of Collinsville, IL traveled with two teenage daughters (age 19 and 16) to London and Paris this past May.  The trip began with a 5-night stay in London at the Citadines Holborn which offers apartment style accommodations ideal for longer stays.  It is well located close to Covent Garden and the tube. A 3-day London Pass was used to hit all the city’s highlights and avoid waiting in ticket lines.  Their Shakespeare loving daughter relished seeing A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Globe Theater.  The updated version was full of energy from the actors and getting seats in advance instead of standing is recommended.  Other fun experiences included afternoon tea at Fortnum and Mason and seeing an intimate production of Phantom of the Opera on the West End.  Other touring highlights included St. Paul Cathedral, the Tower of London, a special Egypt exhibit at the British Museum and all of the city’s history and architecture (especially the churches).   The Eurostar train was used to get to Paris where they stayed in a family sized accommodation at the Hotel Marignan near the top of the Champs Elysee.  They mentioned that the hotel staff was outstanding, their two room and two bathroom suite was very comfortable and the hotel had a very intimate feel.  Their time in Paris was well used and planned as we them prebooked entry into the Eiffel Tower at sunset, a private Louvre tour, a group Notre Dame and Gothic Paris tour and entry into the Catacombs.  They also ventured outside Paris to Versailles for a private tour of the palaces and beautiful gardens.  Overall a great trip filled with fun adventures, history, culture and more.

Travel Tip: Important Websites

Important Website Links for International Travelers

http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information – This is excellent information for international travel published by the TSA. It gives detailed information on all aspects of international travel. Check with the Transportation Authority to keep up with regulations for carry-on items.

http://www.cdc.gov/travel/page/survival-guide.htm – Great information on staying healthy and safe while traveling internationally.

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go.html– The checklist is an excellent site for preparing for your vacation.

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html – This is the State Departments travel warnings site.

http://www.cdc.gov/travel/page/vaccinations.htm – Center for Disease Control list of vaccinations needed by country.

Trip Review: Southern Respite on Beaufort

This month Lauren and her husband Evan traveled to the small and charming Southern town of Beaufort, SC for
an anniversary celebration.  Located right in between Charleston and Savannah, Beaufort can also be a great getaway for families looking to vacation for more than just a few days away.  Beaufort is a small town with a big heart in the middle of the Low Country.  The historic downtown area sits on the Harbor River which provides lovely views and recreation.  It offers a family friendly waterfront park with excellent playground, plenty of good dining options and shops.  We really enjoyed kayaking and stand up paddle boarding around the river and its sand bars, frolicking dolphins and friendly locals.  We also visited nearby islands including the beautiful Hunting Island State Park with its hiking and biking trails, beautiful beaches, fishing pier, nature center and lighthouse.  We climbed to the top of the lighthouse for amazing 40 mile views and enjoyed its museum to learn its rich history.  The nearby town of Blufton is an artistic center with funky galleries and great dining options that we also enjoyed.  We stayed at a new inn called Anchorage 1770; a beautifully restored Greek Revival–style mansion that offers a rich history and sits across from the marshes and river.  The inn showcases two fully furnished patio decks, comfortable living room area and breakfast room.  It is appropriate for couples as well as families with rooms with two queen beds.  A yummy home cooked breakfast is included as well as afternoon snacks; free bike rentals and beach chairs and equipment for badminton, croquet and bocce ball.  Yoga can be organized as well.  The lovely and friendly staff make your feel right at home and can organize all the details for a relaxing stay.

Travel Tip: Emergency Road Kit

Trekaroo reminds us that whether you are planning a trip across the country or a drive across town, it’s always a good idea to have a well-stocked emergency kit in your car. Emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere. Having access to essentials can mean the difference between a little hiccup in your trip or a complete disaster. While everybody’s needs are different, most experts agree that these items should be included in your emergency road trip kit and kept in your car AT ALL TIMES.

Water: Always keep at least two to three 16 oz. bottles of water in your car at all times. A gallon is better, but takes up a lot of room. Not only will water keep you hydrated if you get stranded, but it can also provide a temporary fix to an overheated engine.

Flashlight: A large flashlight with extra batteries is a must for night-time emergencies. Fixing a flat or changing a tire at night would be impossible without a good flashlight.

Jumper Cables: At a minimum you need jumper cables, but it’s even better if you can buy a jumper box that produces its own charge. If you have one of these you won’t have to ask strangers for help, or risk being stranded if there is no one around to help you.

Fire Extinguisher: Unfortunately, car fires can happen. If you are prepared with an automotive fire extinguisher, you can act fast and contain a car fire before anybody gets hurt.

First Aid Kit: The size of this kit is really up to you. Some people like to have a mini hospital in their trunk while others prefer a more minimalistic approach. Most people agree that the basics you need are bandages, vinyl gloves, antibiotic cleansing wipes, antibiotic cream, medication such as Tylenol/ Benadryl/Advil, instant cold packs, scissors, tweezers, hand sanitizer, ace bandage, medical tape, gauze pads, etc.

Flares: If you are stranded on the side of the road, it’s a good idea to lay flares out to warn oncoming traffic. Flares can also be used to signal for help if you are stranded somewhere.

Rain Coat: Murphy’s Law always prevails and you may have to perform emergency repairs in the rain. Keeping an inexpensive rain poncho in the car will make the process a little more comfortable.

Cash: It’s always a good idea to have some emergency cash in your car at all times. Not every place takes credit/debit cards and you may find yourself out of luck if you don’t have some cash on you.

Snacks: Keeping a stash of non-perishable snacks like protein bars or nuts is always a good idea. You never know how long you might be stranded in an emergency.

Car Hammer: It has the ability to not only break glass with a small tap, but it also has a seatbelt cutter. This could literally save your life.

Disposable Cell Phone Charger: If your car battery dies, you won’t be able to use your standard car charger. Keep at least one disposable emergency charger, like Cellboost, in your car at all times.

Spare Tire & Jack: No brainer, right? You would be surprised at how many people don’t have a spare tire or their spare isn’t properly inflated. Make sure to check your spare before each road trip to ensure that it can do the job if you happen to get a flat.

Fix-a-Flat: Designed to fix small punctures in your tire and inflate the tire enough to get you to a safe place to replace or repair a tire.