Trip Review: Portuguese Paradise

Lauren’s family traveled to Portugal this fall for an extended stay that included time in Lisbon, The Algarve and Porto regions.  Lisbon affords amazing water views and it very family friendly.  It offers a rich history, creative culture, tons of museums, unique neighborhoods and amazing food and wine. The capital city is hilly, but is still fun to explore on foot. Funiculars, tuk tuk tours and other public transportation also make it easy to get around.

Our apartment rental (booked through a management company for added assistance) was located off the Avenida da Liberdade, an area where many of our families stay.  It was a great location due to plenty of local restaurants, easy access to public transportation, upscale shopping, parks and more. On our first day we took a tour on a Hop-On/Hop-Off bus; an ideal way to get your bearings. Other highlights for us included the Castelo de Sao Jorge for amazing city views, attending a Fado concert in a water cistern (amazing acoustics!), wine tastings, the Tile Museum, Carmo Church, street markets and more. 

A private day trip with Wondervan to nearby Sintra provided us with so much Portuguese history and nature. We visited the captivating Quinta da Regaleira along with a stop in Cabo de Rocha; the westernmost point of Europe. It was quite a windy place, but views for miles. Our ride back to Lisbon took us through Cascais; an upscale beach town.

We trained from Lisbon to Albufeira and were met on arrival by a pre-arranged tuk tuk driver for a private tour of the city that ended off at the Hilton Vilamoura Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa. This modern and comfortable family resort has several tiered pools, huge spa, plenty of dining options, excellent golf and spacious gym. Vilamoura, a planned resort community, showcases miles of biking/walking paths, a variety of hotels and a busy marina full of great restaurants and shops. From the marina, we took a speed boat to explore a beautiful stretch of coastline and the famous Benagil Cave.  We also rented bikes to ride along the promenade of nearby Quarteira Beach.  A driver from My Day Trip drove us to the town of Evora on our way back to Lisbon. This quaint town overlooks a rich, wine region and showcases an amazing Roman temple. We also explored the town’s cathedral and meandering streets.

For another week-end jaunt, we headed north by train from Lisbon to Porto and stayed along at the newly opened Vila Foz; a member of the Design Hotel chain. This 19th century manor house in the upscale Foz do Duoro neighborhood was quite relaxing, had a gorgeous spa, indoor pool and gym, several dining options and our room had lovely ocean views. In Porto, we enjoyed tasting port wine in the caves in Vila Nova de Gaia (across the Duoro River from Porto) and wandering around the city with its plethora of churches, amazing tile work and historical buildings. A privately guided day trip with Your Tours to the Duoro Valley gave us great insight into the region’s wine industry.  Our guide Pascal went the extra mile to teach us about the culture of the region.  We drove through quaint towns and took a peaceful ride on a Rabelo boat that were used to bring wine barrels from the valley to Porto for storage and distribution.  Our visit to the Quinta Seara d’Ordens winery for a private tour and tasting was very special.  Our return trip to Lisbon with My Day Trip included a stop in the walled city of Obidos known for its castle, cute churches, quaint shops and ginja; a cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup. Yum!

The last few days were spent at the waterfront Altis Belem Hotel & Spa; the area just west of Lisbon.  The hotel was super modern and each room uniquely designed with a country theme.  Belem was full of wander.  We learned about Portugal’s many explorers at the Padrao dos Descombrimentos monument with amazing city views from the rooftop.  We also explored the Los Jeronimos Monastary where Vasco DeGama is buried, appreciated the modern art at the Museu Colecao Berardo, went to the top of the Belem Tower and ate lots of the best pasteis de natas (Portugal’s national pastry treat) at the famous Pasteis de Belem.  Belem was the ideal way to end a truly awesome vacation!

Travel Tips: The SlumberPod

When traveling with small children, quality of nighttime sleep can make or break having an enjoyable vacation. Some children who sleep well at home struggle to sleep in hotel rooms. Check out the SlumerPod, designed by a mother/daughter team, that is a quick-assembly private pod that helps your babies and toddlers get a good night’s sleep especially when sharing a room. It completely encloses a travel crib, is tall enough for a toddler to stand inside, and packs down small enough to fit in carry-on luggage. Most importantly, it provides a safe, easy, and portable solution to make vacations more restful and fun for everyone. The company will be featured on Shark Tank on January 5!

Trip Review: A French Football Adventure

The Shehu/Brown family (2 adults and a daughter, age 12) traveled to France and Switzerland this summer.  Their extensive trip was designed around tickets to two games of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Paris and Lyon.  The family began their trip in Paris for a six-night stay at the Hotel La Villa des Artistes.  Located on the Left Bank in the Montparnasse neighborhood, they found their loft suite to be nice and cozy with an elegant bathroom and would gladly stay there again.  Pre-booked activities included a bike tour of Versailles and a timed visit to the Eiffel Tower.

The family then took the train to Tours for a four-night stay in the beautiful Loire Valley.  They picked up a rental car to best explore this region full of amazing castles, quaint towns and an abundance of fresh produce and wine. Highlights included renting bikes and also learning about Leonardo DaVinci, who died in Amboise 500 years ago. The family got to see a special exhibit at the Chateau Clos de Luce that included a tapestry of the Last Supper (never before seen outside of the Vatican Museum).  They learned a lot about DaVinci: the inventor, artist, musician, architect, engineer, anatomist, botanist, geologist, historian and cartographer!  They stayed in a Family Suite at Auberge du Bon Labourer located in Chenonceaux (and this castle’s former coaching inn) and raved about the hotel’s gourmet restaurant.  A 5-star experience!

Next up was a 2-night stay in Lyon to attend the World Cup Final and witness the American team win for the fourth time!  They arrived by train and stayed at the Mercure Lyon Centre Chateau Perrache in a Privilege Room.  The hotel was located in the city center and close to public transportation.

The last stop was to Geneva, also by train, for a 3-night stay in a Junior Suite at the Hotel New Midi.  They liked that the boutique hotel overlooked the Rhone River, was across from the Old Town and close to the train station to get around.  From Geneva, the sports minded family took a day trip by train to Lausanne and spent several enjoyable hours at the Olympic Museum.

They flew home from Lyon and spent their last night at the NH Lyon Airport Hotel.  They used My Day Trip car service to get there with a stop at the Cerdon Caves along the way.  The family said these caves were beyond belief despite the 40-degree temperature at the bottom.  They found their driver and car to be an upscale experience and appreciated the beautiful scenery and even the crazy mountain roads.

Travel Tip: Preventing an Airplane Cold

Unfortunately flying, especially in winter, can make catching a cold rather easy.  Low humidity is the big culprit for keeping your immune system operating at its best.  Next time you and your family fly…help reduce your chances with the following:

Staying Hydrated: Sipping water regularly throughout the flight is most effective.  Remember that alcohol and caffeinated drinks can dehydrate you more.  Nasal mists, hot drinks, misting your face and breathing through a damp washcloth can also help keep your defenses strong.

Keep Your Hands Clean: The simple act of washing your hands with hot water and soap is a formidable rampart against the transfer of harmful microorganisms. If possible, wash your hands before any in-flight meals, and after your flight as well.  Hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol and sanitizing wipes to clean your tray tables, seat belt buckle and armrest can help too. Touch as little as possible.

Dental Health: Mouthwash can add another layer of protection and keep your throat moist.  Just make sure your bottle is TSA friendly at 3 ounces or less.

Take your Vitamins: While there is no conclusive data, multi-vitamins and especially vitamin C may keep colds or worsening symptoms at bay.

Prevent Airborne Germs:  If needed, a face mask can prevent infection and also keep from spreading infection.  Your overhead air vent can also steer germs away from your face; best to feel the air on your hands when they’re in your lap.

Any other recommendations that you can share?

Travel Tip: Driving Guides

Our families have been enjoying GyPSy Guides.  The narrated driving tour app uses your device’s location service to automatically trigger and play entertaining commentary about your surroundings as you drive along scenic driving routes.  Your location is determined by GPS satellites; so no data roaming, cell network or WiFi is required while touring.  Tours are now available in 25 locations throughout the US and Canada including for all four major Hawaiian Islands; national parks such as Zion, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone, Glacier and Yosemite along with scenic roads in Vermont, the Overseas Highway in The Florida Keys and Icefields Parkway.  Just download the app over a WiFi network before you go and listen to off-line!   A few guides are free (Calgary to Banff), but most range from $3.99 on up to $19.99 for a bundled guide.  Check your cell phone app store to download.

Trip Review: A Greek Island Getaway

The Kitei Family of Downingtown, PA and New York City (parents and 3 young adults) recently returned from an 8-night getaway to Greece.  Their trip began in Athens with an overnight at the Royal Olympic Hotel and time to explore the Acropolis, Parthenon and Acropolis Museum with a privately guided tour; one of the highlights of their trip.  They flew onto Crete which they found both rustic and calmer than Athens due to less tourists.  Next up…the Greek Islands.  On arrival into the Chania airport on Crete, they took a private tour to the nearby Palace of Knossos, the monumental symbol of Minoan civilization.  They found the ruins to be fascinating.  Their unexpected favorite Crete excursions was while visiting alocal olive oil producing farm where they milked goats and learned to make cheese, homemade stuffed grape leaves and tzatziki.  Their stay at the Elounda Gulf Villas found them upgraded to a fabulous four-bedroom Royal Rooftop Suite!  The family said the resort was beyond perfect with stunningly beautiful grounds and an incredible staff.  From Crete, they took a 2 ½ hour ferry ride to Santorini.  They found the island to be magical and one night really enjoyed the glow of sunset while tasting wines at the Domaine Sigalas Vineyard.  They also loved the hike from the towns of Oia to Fira along the pedestrian cobblestone path and enjoyed their last sunset on the water, taking in the beautiful coastline from a catamaran. They stayed at the charming Kirini Hotel in Oia.  Overall the trip was one they will not forget with a perfect mix of taking in the sites and relaxing with family.  They let us know all of their transfers, excursions and arrangements were flawless and now they are wondering where to go next?

Travel Tip: 911 Abroad

What happens when you dial 911 abroad? Depending on where you are, it’ll either put you in touch with a local emergency response team or remain unanswered, which is the last thing you need in a crisis.  Before you head overseas, it’s wise to learn your destination’s emergency response numbers and add them to your contacts in your phone for safekeeping. Take note of these countries’ emergency numbers:

Argentina: 101 for ambulance and police; 107 for fire.

Australia: 000 for all emergencies (106 if you have a speech or hearing impairment).

Egypt: 123 for ambulance; 180 for fire; 122 for police.

India: 102 for ambulance; 101 for fire; 100 for police (or 103 for traffic-related accidents).

Japan: 119 for ambulance and fire; 110 for police.

Jamaica: 110 for ambulance and fire; 119 for police.

Kenya: 999 for all emergencies.

Morocco: 15 for ambulance and fire; 10 for 19.

New Zealand: 111 for all emergencies.

South Africa: 10177 for ambulance and fire; 10111 for police. (The city of Cape Town also uses 107 for all emergencies.)

Switzerland: 144 for ambulance; 118 for fire; 117 for police.

Thankfully, if you’re visiting a country in the European Union, you likely only have one number to remember: 112—you can dial it in case of emergency from any landline or cell phone. In some countries, 112 also functions alongside their own national emergency numbers; in Italy, for example, dialing 112 will reach an operator who will then transfer you using the number of a local fire department or police. Basically, when all else fails, dial 112 in the E.U. and they will connect you to the right party.

Plenty of nations do use 911 as their emergency contact number; these countries include places like the Bahamas, Brazil, the Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and a whole host of other nations. If you don’t see your destination above, take a look at the State Department’s list at https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/students-abroad/pdfs/911_ABROAD.pdf.

Don’t worry about dialing country codes, either, assuming you have a phone that has internationally roaming activated; it should allow you to dial locally and without the country code prefix. You can find country codes at https://countrycode.org/.

Lastly, you might be a little concerned about the language barrier while calling an emergency line. When all else fails, give your local U.S. embassy a call.

Trip Review: A Quebec Experience

Lauren and her husband Evan traveled north of the border to Montreal and Quebec City in August.  Their trip began in Montreal for Lauren to compete in the World Masters Weightlifting Championships held in one of the 1976 Olympic venues.  We enjoyed exploring the Olympic sites and a visit to the top of the Montreal Tower for amazing city views.  At an astonishing 45-degree angle, it holds the Guinness World Record as the tallest inclined tower in the world.  Nearby are excellent dining options in Hochelega neighborhood.  We also explored Montreal’s Old Town with its vibrant shops, cafes, waterfront promenade along with several important churches, squares, government buildings and parks.  Our reason to visit the Historic Jewish section of the city was twofold: to see the myriad of murals that are painted on buildings as part of the annual Mural Festival each June and to eat smoked meat at the famous Schwartz’s Deli!  We also ventured into nearby Mont Royal park.  A fun activity was maneuvering through Montreal’s underground city with 20 miles worth of tunnels.  Our stay at the Le Westin Montreal proved to be an ideal location between the Old Town and newer city sections.  It offers an indoor pool, nice gym and several dining options.  Unfortunately our Heavenly Bed was not so heavenly, but our very spacious room was comfortable otherwise.

We took the train from Montreal to Quebec City; an easy 3-hour ride with nice bathrooms, foodservice and free internet.  We stayed in the hipster St. Roch neighborhood at the Best Western City Centre; a good 4-star hotel with a friendly and helpful staff, restaurant, indoor pool and small gym.  This area showcases lots of dining and shopping options.  It was an easy, 25-minute walk (uphill) to the Old Town.  They have an elevator part way if the stairs are too much.  We enjoyed exploring the quaint Old Town and its charming gates, street performers, cafes, shops, parks and historical buildings including a visit to the Citadel fortress.  Our walk along the Governors Promenade was enjoyable as well. This giant boardwalk facing the St. Lawrence River connects the Plains of Abraham Park to the Dufferin Terrace.  The highlight of our time in Quebec City was a half day bike ride to the Montmorency Falls with Cyclo Services.  We traveled through the beautiful Quebec countryside.  At Montmorency, we took a cable car to the top and walked across the suspended bridge over the falls.  The ride ended with some time in the Old Port area of Quebec.  This region showcases over 3,000 miles of bike paths (Rue Verte); an awesome opportunity for exploring on your own as well.  Overall the trip was a delight!

Trip Review: An Amsterdam Getaway

The Brucker family of Plymouth Meeting near Philadelphia (2 adults and 1 son, age 18) traveled to Amsterdam this summer for 5 days to celebrate a high school graduation.  The quick getaway was too short to get to multiple destinations, but they found the long stay in Amsterdam an opportunity to explore every inch of the city.  The graduate really loves history, culture, food and art; so it was very easy for the entire family to enjoy a variety of experiences.  The trio took in the Dutch city with several guided tours and museum visits along with excellent dining.  They were lucky as well with perfect weather.  A guided canal boat as well as a bike tour gave them varying views of the city’s highlights.  The guide on their canal boat tour with Those Dam Boat Guys was both funny and knowledgeable.  This cheeky ride around the city’s canals is in a 10-seater electric boat.  Their Yellow Bike tour was really fun as well as an authentic Amsterdam experience.  This company is the first and original company in Amsterdam for such tours.  Food wise they enjoyed a wonderful Secret Food tour that included plenty of history along with Dutch tastes.  They also visited the Heineken Experience which proved to be touristy, but a well-done interactive journey about this local beer. Amsterdam also showcases amazing museums.  The family said that their guided tour of the Van Gogh Museum was super interesting and valuable while the Anne Frank House is not to be missed. The family also loved the Moco Museum which opened in 2016.  This boutique museum showcases modern art, contemporary art and street art.  The family was sorry they skipped the Rijksmuseum. Digging more into Amsterdam culture, the highlight tour for the family turned out to be a Red-Light District Tour.  They found it very interesting and informative as they learned about the history and culture of the district, the protections, the controversy…they were really glad they did this tour.   The family stayed at the NH Grand Krasnapolsky; centrally located right on Dam Square.  The location was ideal for seeing all that the city has to offer.  They said that the service and staff were very good.   Overall a successful trip for all before sending their first child off the college!

Travel Tip: Annual Museum Day

The Smithsonian has announced its 15th annual Museum Day, scheduled for Saturday, September 21.  On Museum Day, participating museums across the U.S. will offer free admission.  The theme of Museum Day 2019 is Smithsonian Year of Music, honoring the Smithsonian’s vast musical collections and resources. Check out a list of participating museums and to download your free tickets. Note that free-admission tickets must be downloaded in advance of your visit: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/museum-day-2019/registration/.