We are on the move again, this time on our way to Mexico.
We will be staying at the Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Golf & Spa Resort in Los Cabos, checking out the area and some local Day of the Dead festivities and activities (both on and off the resort). My son and I are pretty excited, and I hope that you are following on my social media channels so you can see the fun as it happens. (Those of you who are already followers know I share often!)
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Fall foliage will soon be at its height in many Northeastern states, making this the perfect time for a quick getaway. These family friendly destinations in upstate New York will rival any in beauty for those in search of the perfect photo, and will provide the kids with endless fun.
Fall Foliage Train Excursion in Shortsville, N.Y., is a 90 minute nostalgic train ride where riders can not only enjoy the trip, but also the view of the changing colors and landscape from your own window. The slow, rolling ride allows ample time for photography, reflection and enjoying time with the family as you make your way to Phelps and back. Upon your return, visitors can also view the Lehigh Valley Historical Society’s museum in the Old New York Central Freight Station, open during excursions.
Find out more at http://www.lvrrhs.org/
Phone: 585-289-9149
The Seneca Park Zoo is open year round. Home to roughly 300 animals and aquatic life, the zoo will be a treat for kids of all ages. During the month of October, bring the kids in costume for a trick-or-treat event called “Zoo Boo,” where your children can take photos with costumed mascots and larger-than-life lions, watch sea lions play with pumpkins, and ask for treats at assigned locations. Collect all the stamps from every location, and your child will receive a special prize to remember the visit by.
Complete with a playground in the center of the zoo, snacks and lunch areas (where you can bring a picnic or purchase food at the zoo), the Seneca Park Zoo is a great way to spend an autumn day.
Find out more at http://www.senecaparkzoo.org/
Phone: 585-336-7200
The National Museum of Play at the Strong is a museum not to be missed by any family – or any kid at heart. While it is most certainly a museum, it is like none other. Fully hands on – and sometimes feet, head, or voice – your child
will not have an amazing time playing, but will learn about the toys they love while doing so. Home to extensive collections of historic toys, as well as the Toy Hall of Fame (soon to induct another toy in November), the museum also features a Butterfly Garden, outdoor Discovery Garden, Comic Book Heroes interactive superhero center (where kids can not only dress up, but become part of their favorite comic books and shows), a carousel and more. Schedule this as an all-day activity – it cannot be covered in two or three hours, and will be a day the whole family will thoroughly enjoy.
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Switzerland is a wonderful place to take the family on holiday. With majestic mountains that are constantly in view, lovely lakes, and train rides that are visually stunning as you tcrusie through the country en route to your destination, you and your family are in for a treat as soon as you set foot in this friendly and hospitable country.
Switzerland is also an affordable option for Americans wanting to travel in Europe, with family friendly options such as the Swiss Pass to make saving money easier as you traverse. It offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System, which includes trains, boats, buses, local urban transportation systems, and free entry to over 450 museums. You also get free WiFi, and access to the Fast Baggage service, which provides same-day luggage delivery between 46 cities in Switzerland. (According to the Switzerland Tourism Department)
One must see spot in the country is Mt. Pilatus, a 7,000-foot mountaintop that you reach via train, aerial cable way, gondola, and the worlds steepest cogwheel rail. If you decide to take the “Golden Round Trip”, you and your family can see some of the best scenery in Switzerland all in one day. From the boat tour beginning in Lake Lucerne, which you ride in comfort either in the inside or outside of the boat on crystal clear waters with mountains surrounding you. Some passengers may choose to get off at one of several stops, such as restaurants or the Swiss Museum of Transport (the most popular museum in Switzerland). You will take the boat to Aspnachstad (which is the aforementioned steepest cog in the world) and then to Pilatus Klum’s peak, at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, viewing amazing sights and scenery all along the way.
The cog up to the top is both exhilarating and a little frightening- it is very, very steep, and those lovely views will make some hold onto their seat a little tighter. From the top, one can view more then 70- peaks and five lakes. You can also visit several restaurants, spend some time at one of Mt. Piliatus’ adventure parks, go tobogganing or head over to the rope park. These are weather permitting. These are in operation from May to November.
If you head back to Lucerne, stop by Chapel Bridge. The most photographed place in Switzerland, and for good reason. This old bridge and tower spans the river, the ceiling and beams of which have paintings dating back to the 1300’s. Chapel Bridge has become somewhat of a symbol for Lucerne, and something you don’t want to miss. If you would like to indulge in a traditional Swiss meal while you are in the area, the Fondue House is just a few blocks away. You can enjoy traditional cheese fondue with a variety of foods to dip in it, as well as a chocolate fondue with fruit to dip for dessert. This was a cozy spot in a convenient location to experience a local favorite dish.
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