Have Sippy, I’m Traveling! In Upstate NY @I_LOVE_NY

Hull-o FarmHey all, I’m going to be in Upstate NY on a working farm this weekend. Nothing like getting your hands dirty and getting in touch with nature with the family. I love Agritourism (including farm or ranch stays), it gives our kids (and ourselves) a look at what goes on at a farm and where food comes from. It’s [Read more…]

Paris Museums That Didn’t Forget the Kids

Paris is a world-renowned center of art and culture, and its museums contain superior collections of paintings, sculptures and artifacts. Many of these museums are oriented toward the adult visitor, and a quiet and solemn atmosphere is the order of the day. Think, for example, of museums such as the Louvre, the Pompidou Center and the Musee d’Orsay. There is, however, a group of museums that cater to the interests of children, and families who visit Paris should know about these centers of education and entertainment.
paris

The Paris Natural History Museum, located at 57 rue Cuvier, has a collection of dinosaur skeletons that is guaranteed to enthrall children of all ages. Parents, too, will find the exhibit fun and fascinating. The museum also houses the gallery of mineralogy, which features over 600,000 minerals, precious stones and beautifully colored crystals. The children can also see some live animals at the zoo in the Plant Gardens. The Paris Natural History Museum is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Just take lines 5, 10 or RER C to the Gare d’Austerlitz. If you would rather have your own transportation, car hire in Paris is easy and convenient with many locations available for car pick up and many different companies [Read more…]

Where to Stay When You #VisitLancaster

lancaster-NYC 269We love Lancaster. With so much to see and do (and if you are a regular reader, you have seen many posts about the area right here on this site) there is always a reason to go back to this laid back, family friendly community. If you are looking for a hotel, I suggest you check out the Bird in Hand Family Inn.

lancaster-NYC 254With easy access off of one of the main roads in the area, surrounded by Amish farmland, the Bird-in-Hand Family Inn features 125 comfortable, well-equipped rooms and a family restaurant. They also feature two indoor pools, a hot tub, tennis courts, a large outdoor playground, and petting zoo- all free to use at your leisure. There is also a mini golf course available for a fee. The rooms are clean and the staff is friendly.

petting zoo in PAThe hotel also offers complimentary, two hour tours of our neighboring Amish farmlands- but don’t think you will take one on a Sunday. In Lancaster, there is not a whole lot going on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

bird in hand family inn PARight on the property [Read more…]

All part of the package in Benidorm

Benidorm, now known as one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, was traditionally a small fishing village but has now grown into a thriving destination that contributes to a large portion of the Spanish economy. Co-op Travel recognises that the demand for British package holidays to Benidorm is high, so provides a great selection of deals for people of all ages to visit the active Spanish coastal town.

pic 1Some of the most well-known aspects of Benidorm are its huge buildings, numerous hotels, sandy beaches, and popular night life. The mixture of things to do provides anyone of any age with a great getaway, and Co-op Travel caters for all visitors in the form of unique package holidays designed to be flexible to specific needs.

Since Benidorm benefits from such a high volume of tourism, there are a number of things to do to create a memorable holiday. If your number one goal is to relax, there is plenty of beach space over which to chill [Read more…]

5 Tips for Traveling Internationally With Children

Traveling anywhere with kids can be a trial, even if you’re only making your weekly trip to the grocery store. But when you have to keep children calm and collected throughout the duration of an international flight, you’ll no doubt find that your difficulties increase exponentially. At least when you’ve got them strapped in the car for a road trip, you’re the only one who has to live with their discomfort and the tantrums it can produce. When you’re stuck on an airplane, everyone has to deal with the repercussions associated with fussy kids. And the situation can get pretty ugly if you’re unable to rein in your tots. Luckily, there are steps to ensure that your trip goes a little more smoothly, despite the fact that your kids are unused to sitting still for several hours at a stretch. Here are some tips to keep your kids calm and to carry on when you take an international trip.

international travel with kids

  1. Identification. For the safety of your kids and for your own peace of mind, it’s important that you tag all family members with appropriate identification. This could mean strapping an I.D. bracelet on each child’s wrist or equipping them with a lanyard that features a plastic pocket to store a printout of pertinent data (including their name, any allergies, and of course, a means of contacting you if your child is found). You might also want to carry a current (and clear) photo of each child on you (school pictures are a good option) just in case one of them wanders off or gets snatched in the busy and crowded airport or while you are abroad. Hey, kids are prone to wandering [Read more…]

‘Radiance’ by Thermos, 24 Can Cooler Review

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With summer arriving just around the corner, I know that I definitely will be needing a cooler now and then. I was thrilled to be able to review the ‘Radiance’ 24 Can Cooler from Thermos.

About Radiance:

  • Adjustable Shoulder Strap
  • Quick Access Lid
  • Front Zippered Pocket
  • Side Mesh Pocket
  • Holds 24 Cans
  • Dimensions: 10″ W x 8.5″ D x 11″ H

If you are wanting to clean the interior or the exterior of the cooler, you just need to do it with the damp sponge and mild soap for the best results.

RadianceMy Thoughts:

I was completely impressed with the cooler. I love all the room that there is inside of the [Read more…]

Have Sippy, I’m Traveling! Follow Along as I @ExploreGeorgia

georgiaYou could say I am in a Georgia state of mind, as I am very excited to be getting on a plane and headed down to the Peach State tomorrow (very early!) in the [Read more…]

Why You Should Want To #VisitLancaster

When it’s time to get away, scenic Lancaster, PA is one of our favorite places to go. There is plenty to do, see, and eat in this family friendly environment. Here are some great places to visit in Lancaster, one of our favorite places to spend time as a family (and sure to be one of yours, as well).

lancaster PAThe Strasburg Railroad is the home to many restored trains from around the USA. Many train fanatics call this site the best historic railroad in America for visitors, and for good reason. Recognized as one of the most significant historic railroads in the USA, the Strasburg Railroad has acquired historic trains from all over the country, and recently celebrated operating for 50 years as a tourist railroad It is one of the remaining stations where you and your family can ride the refurbished trains and steam engines. This station is large, restored, and maintained beautifully- a source of pride for the local people.

strasburg railroadEvery time we visit, we truly sense the enjoyment that the conductors and employees have for their jobs- it shines though as they take their time with every child, posing for photos and answering train trivia with a smile. As you ride the beautifully restored trains through Amish country, learning about steam railroading, agriculture, Amish culture and Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, enjoy your family and your little ones, and let worries slip away. They are little for only so long, and riding in a “real” train is going to be a real delight. There was a “vintage baseball” game being played while we visited last weekend, where olde-time dressed players used old rules, terms, and equipments to play the game. It was very enjoyable to watch, and their wives came in full period clothing as well. There are other special events going on regularly at the Strasburg railroad. Check out the calendar and plan for your favorites.

pic 3Strasburg Rail Road is pleased to offer an all-new Summer Fun Pass, a value-packed ticket option for individuals and families who want more bang for their buck! The Summer Fun Pass is valid from May 25 – September 2 and includes unlimited steam train and fun extra rides.

At just $35 per person for ages 3 and older, this pass will pay for itself in just three visits, one of the best offerings from Lancaster County attractions. [Read more…]