How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip to Niagara Falls

November 5, 2019 by Leave a Comment

niagara falls trip

Although Niagara Falls was associated with honeymooners for generations, it’s actually become a popular destination for families as well. Although the impressive waterfalls remain the main attraction, with everything from indoor waterparks, aquariums, museums, and more, it’s the perfect spot for families with kids of all ages.

But where do you begin planning your Niagara Falls vacation? Here are some tips to help make the planning process a bit easier, and help you have a stress-free, memorable family getaway. 

Question #1: When to Go

Most people think of Niagara Falls as a summer destination, and with good reason. Not only are the falls themselves running at full volume during the warmer months, all of the local attractions are accessible, and the temperatures are much more comfortable. On the downside, the crowds are much bigger in the summer, and you may have to wait in longer lines than you expect.

That being said, don’t rule out a winter visit to the Niagara Falls area entirely. It’s true that some of the biggest attractions, like the Maid of the Mist/Hornblower Cruises (the name depends on which side of the border you’re on) do not run during the winter, your kids may enjoy seeing the impressive ice formations that the cold temperatures create near the Falls. Not to mention, many of the things to do in Niagara Falls with kids take place indoors, so you can still enjoy your trip without venturing out into the cold. 

Question #2: Where to Stay

The big question for many families planning a trip to Niagara Falls is which side of the border to stay on, the New York or Canadian side. While the choice really comes down to personal preference (and your passport status, since every member of your family must have a valid passport to enter Canada), there are pros and cons to either option. Many families opt to stay on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls because there are more entertainment options, and because the views of the waterfalls are arguably more impressive from that side of the gorge. For example, you’ll find Clifton Hill on the Canadian side, which features a range of amusements that will keep your kids happy for hours, including the Skywheel. This giant Ferris wheel offers incredible views of the Falls and the surrounding area, and most kids love the experience. 

On the other hand, if you are looking for a quieter, more laid-back experience and activities that involve learning more about the natural elements of the falls, and getting outdoors, then the New York side may be a better option. Niagara Falls State Park encompasses the area around the river and waterfalls, and has plenty of hiking trails, scenic areas, and museums to satisfy even the most curious adventurer. There are still restaurants, hotels, and a few attractions on the New York side, but far fewer than in Canada. 

Again, though, if you plan to cross the border at all, whether you are staying in Canada to just want to check out the sights from the north, you must bring your passport. Otherwise, you’ll be turned away at the border. 

Question #3: What Can We Do in Niagara Falls?

There’s no doubt Niagara Falls is an impressive sight, and it’s easy to become mesmerized by the thundering water and astounding views. But your kids will probably only want to look at the waterfalls for so long, and you’ll need to have some other activities planned. Thankfully, you have plenty of options. Some of the must-dos include:

  • A Maid of the Mist (NY) or Hornblower (Canada) cruise to the base of the falls. It’s likely to be one of the most exciting, and wet, boat rides your family ever takes.
  • Cave of the Winds or Journey Behind the Falls tours to check out the falls from behind the water.
  • Aquarium of Niagara, a small aquarium with an array of aquatic life from the Great Lakes Region – and penguins. 
  • Skylon Tower, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and more in Clifton Hill. 
  • Fort Niagara, a 300-year old fort featuring military reenactments from the War of 1812. 

With so much to do, you could easily spend several days in Niagara Falls without hearing a single “I’m bored.” 

So, whether you go in the summer or winter, stay in NY or Canada, and stick to the city or nature, Niagara Falls has plenty of options for a perfect family vacation.

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Luigi’s Mansion 3 by Nintendo #GiftGuide

November 4, 2019 by 3 Comments

Looking for a fun game to get for the kids this holiday season? Nintendo has just come out with the 3rd in a their series, Luigi’s Mansion 3, just in time for this gift giving season. Luigi just wanted to get away, a little vacation- but that just never seems to work out for him, does it?

My son’s review of Luigi’s Mansion;

Poor Luigi. He has a knack for stumbling into the most precarious predicaments. His biggest adventure yet, Luigi’s Mansion 3¸ arrives on Nintendo Switch. When Luigi shows up at the Last Resort hotel, he discovers the entire building is teeming with ghosts. You’ll need your trusty Poltergust G-00, the help of Gooigi and all your wits to survive. Visit This Site for even more fun family activities. You’ll find instructions for making your own Gooigi mask, as well as special ghost-o’-lantern stencils for carving pumpkins with friendly phantoms from Luigi’s Mansion 3, including Polterpup! Don’t forget to print out a Boo-themed paper chain garland to haunt your home with aplomb.

This hotel is equipped with some of the finest and most diverse amenities across our multiple floors. While other hotels only provide a simple continental breakfast, we offer a disco, a greenhouse, a giant pyramid and even a massive pirate ship! You will never leave! Er… I mean, you will never want to leave. You will be having too much fun!

gift guide

While the hotel is vast, you will never feel lonely. Gooigi is never far away if you need his help… and you can even play with a friend to have Gooigi by your side at all times. For more multiplayer fun, you can race the timer to clear objectives with up to seven other guests in ScareScraper mode*, or try your luck at a variety of mini-games in ScreamPark mode. Be sure to try them both when you have a chance.

*Nintendo Switch Online subscription required to play ScareScraper mode online.

Filed Under: electronics, gaming, Holiday Gift Guide, technology Tagged With: , , ,

Tips for travel with kids because life shouldn’t stop

November 4, 2019 by 1 Comment

samantha feuss

People often believe that once you have kids your life suddenly stops. Well, at least the fun and wild part of it. How many times have you heard that you should travel as much as you can because when you have children you won’t be able to go anywhere? As a parent you probably know that this has nothing to do with reality. Okay, traveling with little ones is a little bit more complicated than traveling solo or with friends, but it is far from impossible. In fact, with these tips and tricks you will be able to have an enjoyable vacation without unnecessary unpleasantries. 

Plan your trip carefully

Maybe you really want to see those old churches of Europe or visit museums with incredible pieces of art, but save that for another time when your kids are older (or grandma volunteers to babysit for a couple of days). This type of sightseeing can be too tiring and too boring for little ones so instead try something else. While theme parks are always a good idea, you don’t have to spend the next decade in Disneyland. Kids love to play, explore, touch, see and experience new things so any activity that involves nature and animals will keep your children happy and entertained. However, if they will be spending a lot of time outside make sure you protect your kids from the damaging sun rays.

Travel light

When you picture traveling with kids it is likely that an image of several suitcases, bags and a full trunk of toys pops into your head, but if you want to turn your trip into a dream vacation and not a living nightmare, pack only what you really need. This way you won’t have a lot of stuff to carry and you will find everything you need more easily. Keep in mind that you will be able to wash your clothes wherever you go, so you really don’t have to pack your whole closet. After giving this a try you will realize how little you actually need on your trips.

Fight the jet lag with activities

Jet lag is the arch-enemy of most parents. When your little ones should be sleeping they are hanging from the chandelier full of energy and anxious to do something fun in a foreign land. However, there is an easy way to deal with jet lag. Since you will most likely stay up late the first night, take your kids out and stay active the whole time. There are so many fun outdoor activities for children you can try out at a playground or a park, you can explore the city and check out some of the attractions. Keep in mind that your little ones might get hungry in the middle of the night, so by making a stop by the local store you can avoid nerve-wracking tantrums. 

Stick to the same routines

Do you read your kids before bedtime? Or maybe they always get a bath before going to sleep? Do your little ones always take a nap around noon? The younger your children are, the more important the routine is for them. Therefore, try to keep the same habits you have at home and you won’t have to deal with cranky monsters.

Forget about souvenirs

If you have ever taken your kids grocery shopping, you surely know that they always find something they want to take home. The same thing will happen with souvenirs, but you need to resist the temptation (and avoid their puppy-eye looks) because once you cave and buy them something, they will keep asking for something else until you return home. In addition, souvenirs will keep them entertained for just a couple of minutes, and after that they will break, get lost or worse, just take up space in your baggage. Therefore, save money and spend it on something else, like ice cream. 

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful or exhausting. With just several clever strategies you can have a memorable trip with your loved ones. 

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Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Alaska

November 4, 2019 by Leave a Comment

glacier

When people plan where to go on a vacation, Alaska is usually never on the list of places in countries they want to visit. In fact, when someone says they want to go to this part of the planet, the most common question is ‘Why’? Unfortunately, people who imagine Alaska to be just one huge block of ice are going to miss out on so much. The 49th state has so many things to offer, from mighty glaciers, amazing wildlife and a rich culture to breathtaking views and lively cities. Even if you are not a fan of cold weather and you are not at all interested in winter sports, going to Alaska should be on your bucket list. Here are just some of the reasons why people around the world are coming to visit The Last Frontier. 

The Northern Lights

If you come to Alaska in March and September, you will be able to witness one of Mother Nature’s best artworks. Seeing ribbons of color dancing around in the sky can really take your breath away and if you are really lucky, you might be able to hear the faint crackling typical for the aurora. Keep in mind that if you are visiting Alaska just to see these lights, you don’t want to come in June and July, since due to the endless sun during those months they won’t be visible.

World-class fishing

Every fisherman in the world will tell you that Alaska is the best place on the planet for fishing. In fact, there are so many fishing opportunities that even the residents of this state haven’t tried them all. Whether you want to catch tasty salmon, trout, or northern pike there are numerous charter companies available to take you out fishing. When you add exclusive and remote lodges to the equation, fishing in Alaska might be your dream vacation.  

Glaciers

There are more than 100, 000 glaciers in Alaska and you should be prepared to be dazzled by ice. A lot of them can be easily accessed, so be sure to check out Byron Glacier, Matanuska Glacier, Mendenhall Glacier or Exit Glacier. Many of these icy giants have been turned into tourist attractions, and you can even visit Spencer Glacier by train. 

 Interesting wildlife

If you call yourself an animal lover, you will definitely enjoy visiting Alaska and getting acquainted with its remarkable wildlife. If you want to see bears, moose, caribou, eagles and other creatures in this majestic land, be sure to visit Denali National Park. Whether you sign up for the flightseeing tour, ride the zipline, or go on jeep excursion, you will surely be rewarded with sights that will stay with you for a lifetime. 

Towering mountains

The tallest mountain in North America is located in Alaska. Denali is the centerpiece of Denali National Park and Preserve and it is 20,310 feet high. Although this mountain was officially called Mount McKinley for almost a century, its name was changed four years ago. If you are not feeling dare devilish, there are plenty of other mountains to explore. From Alaska Range to the Brooks Range, there are so many incredible opportunities for hiking, skiing, as well as other outdoor sports. The 49th state is the go-to place for adventurers so if you are interested in surfing, sea kayaking among icebergs, or cruising along faces of glaciers Alaska is definitely your heaven on Earth.

 With all these amazing things to see and experience, it is a shame not to visit this beautiful part of the world. Once you see how amazing Alaska really is and you fall in love with its beautiful landscapes, history, and unforgettable scenery, you will surely revisit it in the future.

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Paper Mill Playhouse Education/Outreach Programs

November 4, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Paper Mill Playhouse (Mark S. Hoebee-Producing Artistic Director, Michael Stotts- Managing Director), recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award, is thrilled to announce that The Goren Family and the Harmony Helper app have partnered with the Millburn theater as the inaugural sponsor of the not-for-profit’s education and outreach programs. The sponsorship includes additional resources for Paper Mill’s staple arts education programs including: Adopt-A-School Project (https://tinyurl.com/ArtsEducate1), Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards presented by Investors Foundation (https://tinyurl.com/PMPRISING),  annual New Voices Concert (https://tinyurl.com/NewVoicesConcert), Summer Musical Theater Conservatory (https://tinyurl.com/PMPSMC) and the company’s Theater for Everyone program (https://papermill.org/access-for-all/), among others.   The Goren Family and the Harmony Helper App are also a major sponsor of Paper Mill Playhouse’s mainstage production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, running from November 20 through December 29.

“Paper Mill Playhouse is deeply grateful for the Harmony Helper app and the Goren family’s visionary support of our arts education and outreach programs,” commented James Fakult, Chair of Paper Mill’s Board of Trustees. “Paper Mill champions nearly 40,000 students each year with transformative education programs, which are at the heart of our not-for-profit organization.”

“Paper Mill feels a keen responsibility to ensure children should have access to theater’s life-changing opportunities, regardless of economic, physical, or developmental challenges,” stated Michael Stotts, Paper Mill’s Managing Director. “Paper Mill responds with high-quality arts education, cultural partnerships, and outreach – impacting teens, aspiring artists, and families of children with autism and other cognitive and developmental disabilities.”

“Paper Mill Playhouse is an invaluable non-profit organization that enriches the national theater community and gives performers of all abilities the opportunity to participate in the arts,” said Andrew Goren, founder and chief executive officer of Harmony Helper. “Harmony Helper is thrilled to give back to this organization that represents our shared values. Much like Paper Mill Playhouse, our goal at Harmony Helper is to provide equal access to training resources for performers.”

Harmony Helper®, the premier app that provides singers the convenience and control of a 24/7 digital rehearsal room anytime, anywhere, announced the full launch on October 29 of the first and only product that adds customizable sheet music scanning to simplify practicing and help singers deliver their best performance. The Harmony Helper app allows singers that cannot afford a vocal coach or rehearsal space to develop the skill levels they need to make the most of their time in the spotlight. It levels the playing field for amateurs and pros alike.

Based on patented technology, the app is the first comprehensive, easy-to-use learning tool that features accurate real-time feedback, vocal part customization, pitch tracking, record/playback, and vocal part volume control.

Harmony Helper’s new customizable sheet music scanning feature is the first and only of its kind. Users simply upload or take a photo of their sheet music. Harmony Helper then uses Optical Music Recognition (OMR) technology to auto-generate vocal parts. The user then creates their own custom vocal part by answering a few questions about the song. The song is then translated into an easy-to-read piano roll format with accompaniment and flexible part volume controls, giving singers the ability to isolate specific vocal parts and sound while practicing. This unique feature makes all music available to practice the moment a singer is ready to begin learning. For singers who are just learning or struggle with reading sheet music, this patented technology eliminates the friction to allow the aspiring singer to practice. Performers no longer need to be dependent on scheduling time with accompanists to play and record music, and the real-time feedback feature takes away the stress of scheduling with a coach to quickly prepare for an audition or performance.

“Harmony Helper is an indispensable educational resource that will change how every individual and music group approaches learning music,” said Mark S. Hoebee, Producing Artistic Director at Paper Mill Playhouse. “Harmony Helper solves a myriad of logistical issues facing performers and beginners while giving students the confidence they need to master their music. I consider this app a true game-changer for the arts industry.”

“Learning to sing requires only one really big commitment: practice. Harmony Helper allows you to practice singing anytime, while simultaneously training both your brain and ear,” said Rob McClure, Tony-nominated actor and artistic advisor at Harmony Helper. “Unlike other apps on the market, Harmony Helper makes it possible for singers to practice any song they want with no song library limit. The sheet music scanner feature puts control back into the singer’s hands, without having to impose on your Musical Director or accompanist to record their individual parts. As a Broadway performer, this is incredibly valuable and a first for the industry.”

Harmony Helper’s transformative features include:

  • Sheet Music scanning/conversion: Allows singers to simply take a photo of any sheet music or upload directly into the app. Using OMR technology, written music is converted to MusicXML and MIDI so it can be viewed in a piano roll format, heard, and rehearsed.
  • Vocal part customization: Singers create their custom vocal part for a more personalized experience.
  • Real-time feedback: Patented pitch tracker accurately visualizes the singer’s pitch and timing in real-time, calibrated to their abilities and level of expertise.
  • Vocal Part Volume Controls: Hear the song in a multitude of different ways using volume controls for vocal parts, metronome, and accompaniment.
  • Guided Approach to Learning: Patented 5-Step Approach to Learning and Holding Harmonies equips singers with the necessary tools to tackle even the most complex songs, so they can walk into every live performance or rehearsal confidently prepared.
  • Easy Record and Playback: Listen to a song anytime and anywhere, then step into a quiet room to record/practice. Then listen to the recording take alone or with other vocal parts.

In the coming months, Harmony Helper will be announcing the general release of its group sharing features. The patented technology will enable music directors, coaches, and teachers to seamlessly share songbooks and instructions with performers and group members. Performers will receive their music via the app and can easily isolate their part so they can practice on their own time, not just when the director or accompanist is available.

Availability:

Harmony Helper is now available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

HARMONY HELPER is a singer’s best friend and the only app that utilizes patented technologies to provide singers with the convenience and control of a 24/7 digital rehearsal room anytime, anywhere, regardless of skill level. Harmony Helper improves singing accuracy and builds confidence, helping singers and performance groups deliver their best performances. The innovative learning tool is easy-to-use and complete with the most comprehensive list of features, including part customization, sheet music scanning, real-time feedback, vocal part volume control and a novel 5-step approach to mastering a song. Founded in 2017 by CEO and founder Andrew Goren, Harmony Helper is comprised of a passionate team of expert technologists, seasoned entrepreneurs, and well-respected Broadway performers and performance experts. For more information, visit https://harmonyhelper.com.

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE, a not-for-profit arts organization under the direction of Mark S. Hoebee (Producing Artistic Director) and Michael Stotts (Managing Director), recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award, is one of the country’s leading regional theaters.  Paper Mill Playhouse programs are made possible, in part, by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Paper Mill Playhouse is a member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, the Council of Stock Theatres, and the New Jersey Theatre Alliance. For additional information, please visit www.papermill.org.

Filed Under: theater Tagged With: ,

Stocking Stuffers for Teen and Tween Boys #GiftGuide

November 1, 2019 by 1 Comment

Looking to stuff your son’s stocking with items he will actually use? Check out Prep U Products (available on Amazon) for teens or boys.

natural soap for kids

Made for boys aged eight and up, Prep U is committed to providing all-natural body care products that are a clean-smelling, chemical-free and effective.  There is a full line of personal care products aimed at the males of the species- though I admit, I really, really like the deodorant and got one for myself. The body washes are also nice for everyone, even if they are aimed at boys. The smell is soothing and refreshing, and I like them as much as they do. I am the “rose amongst thorns” in the house and a bit outnumbered, so perhaps I lean toward things male, but hey. At least you know the smell is pleasant to both sexes. Here are some items to consider;

Back-to-Basics (Price: $32.00) 

Includes all of the signature products: Body Spray, Body Wash and Natural Deodorant.

TRVL Kit (Price: $29.00) 

Prep U’s travel sizes are great for any on-the-go needs from weekend trips to summer camps. The kit includes: 2oz Active Dry Powder, 2oz Body Spray, 2oz Body Wash, canvas travel kit.

Charcoal Face + Body Set (Price: $24.00) 

Prep U’s Charcoal Scrub and Charcoal Bar detoxifies and gently exfoliates skin.

charcoal body wash

I like the charcoal items for my youngest son, age 12, who has a skin condition which causes his skin to erupt in itchy red bumps and rashes. He has so many creams and soaps, but the charcoal also soothes his skin and reduces these breakouts. We use charcoal items often, and both he and I like these and give them our stamp of approval. They also smell nice- it says unscented, but to me it has a bit of a lemon-y smell.  The fact that they are chemical free and all natural makes them a no brainier.

If you have a smelly teen or tween boy in your life (and if he’s older then 5, you likely do, LOL) these will be quite useful gifts indeed. Try them out and shoot us a tweet or a comment, let us know what you think. We hope you like them as much as we do. Happy holidays, and enjoy. If these don’t strike you, try out some solid shampoo or zero waste cosmetics. We know you will find what you are looking for!

Filed Under: giveaway, Holiday Gift Guide, natural, review Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Chef’s Knife That Makes The Cut This Holiday Season #GiftGuide

November 1, 2019 by 1 Comment

Looking for something for the foodie in your life? Check out this professional-grade cutlery that would be appreciated by the culinary artist in your life.

kitchen gadgets
Forged from a single blank of high-carbon steel, this 8-inch Chef’s Knife is crafted with special alloys that are guaranteed to maintain an extraordinary sharpness through everyday use – hand-sharpened to 12-degrees for maximum precision. The weighted blade is thin, resulting in less resistance with each slice. Its 60-day guarantee and free shipping make this a risk-free purchase for even the most selective buyers.Both EDGE’s blade and durable G10 Garolite handle are engineered for years of performance. Exceptionally sharp and easy to care for, this all-purpose kitchen tool immediately feels at home in your hand.

Lightweight, it cuts smoothly and easily. There is a page on their website dedicated to teaching you different knife cuts and skills, which is pretty interesting. Several videos as well. They also give helpful hints for the amateur chef such as “When cutting with a chef’s knife, your motion should be aimed down and through whatever you are chopping. A rocking motion of your wrist will be the most comfortable way to cut”.

Effortless cuts

Hand sharpened 12 degree edge by seasoned craftsman. Say hello to the sharpest knife you’ve held.

Carefree maintenance

We use a high chromium alloy to let you clean your knife now or wait a few hours. Because chromium doesn’t care.

Superb balance

As soon as you pick it up, EDGE just feels right. Like it was custom made.

If you have someone on your shopping list that loves to cook, this is sure to be a hit. A chef, a student who aspires? Even better. This will be a truly appreciated gift. Check out the site and see what it has to offer. There is also a lifetime warranty, free shipping, and 60 day return policy- so it’s an easy choice. It’s also on sale right now, so hurry over.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide, review Tagged With: , , ,

Gabb Wireless Black Friday Special #BlackFriday #GiftGuide

November 1, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Review of the phone to follow shortly, but as of now, I can highly recommend this service. It’s perfect for kids and families.  Check it out, and this is a really great deal. Perfect time to buy.

Thanksgiving evening until midnight on Black Friday Gabb Wireless is giving away a Gabb Z1 smartphone with the purchase of a Gabb Basic service plan. The Black Friday offer is available at GabbWireless.com using the onsite promo code and is limited to 5 lines per family.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide, kids, saving/money Tagged With: , , , , ,