Visiting Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a relatively new hot spot for international travel. It’s a great place to visit, both because of its rich culture and arts scene but also because of its amazing biodiversity.  There are over 500 reef building coral species in the area.  This is about 7 times as much coral as there is in the Caribbean.  You can  also get some great Bali hotel deals. The Alila Seminyak is a great spot to stay in while you visit.

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Bali has lush landscapes made up of hills, mountains, and rugged coastlines with sandy beaches and gorgeous rice terraces.  There are also barren volcanic hillsides all making this a great vacation spot for anyone looking for a new place to go.  From surfing and diving to cultural, historical, and archaeologic attractions.  There are also tons of accommodations of all types, one such hotel is the best western kuta beach.  The Best Western is located in South Bali which is the most popular part of the island.  There are some memorable hot spots including Kuta Beach, which has a sunset that should not be missed and is a wonderfully romantic beach.  As well as Tenah Lot Temple, which is a temple which was built in the 15th century by Hindu priest Nirartha.  The temple sits just off shore on an outcropping of stones and is a sight to behold.  It is only accessible via a small foot path which is a sight to see at sunset as well.

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On the way to the temple there are also many small ships set up to buy a wealth of souvenirs with something for everyone back home.  There are many wonderful places to visit in Bali from gorgeous scenic beaches to wonderful cultural temples it is easy to see why Bali is a global hot spot to visit on vacation whether you are a globe trotting upper crust individual or a student finding their way as well as everyone in between.  Bali was the host of the 2011 ASEAN Summit, 2013 APEC and Miss World 2013. Bali also contains the Subak Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a not a short flight, so make sure you prepare the kids for a long plane ride.

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Looking For An Escape? How To Find The Perfect Holiday Destination

suitcaces

We all need a holiday from time to time. There’s nothing quite like forgetting the stresses of life and heading someplace new. You already know how to pack lightly for your trip, but now you need to decide where to go. The options seem endless, and it can be hard to choose. After all, you’re not fussy about where you go; you just know you want to get away. Anywhere with the sunshine and a crisp white beach will do! The reality of holiday shopping isn’t that simple, though, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Knowing what type of holiday you’re after can help narrow down the selection.

A ROMANTIC TRIP

Are you planning to jet off for a romantic week with your partner? There are many holiday destinations that are perfect for that loving vibe. For this, you’ll want something more secluded than your standard beach holiday. Think uninterrupted romance. Exclusivity is the key here. You want the chance to lay on that beach in your bikini without any risk of being seen. You’ll be so secluded you could take it off if you wanted. Your lover definitely wouldn’t mind.

A TRIP WITH THE BESTIE

If there’s no man to worry about, a trip with your bestie is a perfect choice. Socialisation is probably the aim here; none of that exclusivity for you two. Think sun, bars, and male potential! If that doesn’t suit your fancy, you could run off on a road trip. Road trips are an excellent way to see a lot of different places. You’re sure to drive past a few beaches too, so don’t worry about missing out! The good thing about a road trip is that you’re free to do what you like; this could be the chance for a perfect, personalized trip for your bestie and you.

A SOLO TRIP

If complete escape is what you’re after, why not take a trip alone? You might be getting away after a bad break up, or just taking some time for yourself. Jetting off solo is an amazingly freeing experience. Think of the possibilities. With no one to hold you back, you can do everything you want to. You can dine alone in the moonlight, dance on the beach, and see all the sights you fancy. You never know, you might even make some amazing friends on your journey. People are often drawn to the lonesome traveler.

A FAMILY TRIP

If all of the above sound fantastic but you have a family to think of, don’t fear. You needn’t miss out. Family Holidays can be some of the best! Taking the family along can lead to some fantastic memories. Whether you want to sit by the pool or go out and see the sights, there are plenty of options. You could turn the trip into an educational one for the kids, or just let them go wild for a while. And if you want some time away from them, most hotels have holiday groups too!

Fall Family Vacation Deals of 50% at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts

We will be visiting in just a few weeks, and can’t wait to see how much fun Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is for ourselves. Don’t worry, we will be sharing all the info with you, as well as our thoughts. In the meantime, make sure you are following on social media @HaveSippy on Twitter, Instagram, and Vine and Snapchat if you are so inclined.

We will be posting some Facebook Like for you as well, so feel free to like and follow the page. Can’t wait to tell you all about it! In the meantime, here is some information for you, should you be interested in booking a trip. We have stayed in a Karisma resort before, and it was lovely.

punta cana resorts

Karisma Hotels & Resorts are offering major savings for family travel at their top family resorts in beautiful and sunny Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and the Riviera Maya in Mexico. From character breakfasts with Nickelodeon stars and family slimings at the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana to a toy lending library with a menu of toys that can be delivered to suites or the beach at Azul Beach Hotel to Little Eko Chefs at Generations Riviera Maya which allows young guests to gain true culinary skills while learning easy and delicious recipes – both parents and kids can prepare to be wowed.

  • Kids are included complimentary with Sliming Savings at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana! Plus, you can save up to 50 percent on vacations booked between now and October 21, 2016 for travel until December 22, 2017.  Special rates start at $190 per person, per night for adults.  Book at www.nickresortpuntacana.com or 844-733-NICK.
  • With the Not Another Pumpkin Spice Promotion, guests can save up to 50 percent on vacations booked at Generations Riviera Maya and up to 40 percent at Azul Beach Hotel on vacations booked between now and November 30, 2016 for travel until December 22, 2017. Special rates start at $272 per person, per night at Generations Riviera Maya and $250 per person, per night at Azul Beach Hotel.  Book at www.karismahotels.com or 1-866-527-4762.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts specializes in creating memorable experiences for families that are crafted with the needs of families in mind and are anything but ordinary. With Karisma’s signature Gourmet Inclusive Experience, family vacations are carefree. Parents can forget packing those extra bulky baby accessories and take advantage of the resorts’ amenities, including strollers, cribs, pack and plays, changing tables, monitors, bottle warmers, baby bathrobes, and more. Additionally, there is no need to stress about meals and booking reservations! A Gourmet Inclusive vacation includes all gourmet cuisine served a la carte, premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service and stocked mini bars with drinks and snacks that don’t cost extra to enjoy. Plus, each resort has unique family offerings such as family suites for up to two adults and three children, swim-up suites, splash parks, expansive kid’s clubs, and character experiences with Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, Paw Patrol and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Information and images of Azul Beach Hotel, Generations Riviera Maya, and Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana can be found at www.karismahotels.com .

A Sweet and Spooky Halloween in Hershey, PA

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Halloween isn’t quite the way it was years ago, but in some ways — in some places — it’s better! Today, when it comes to the little ones, parents are hesitant to let them wander throughout the neighborhood at night. City dwellers and those who live in remote areas can’t trick or treat. As for older kids – and these days, they’re growing up faster and faster – the holiday should be celebrated on a larger, more exciting and engaging level. What more memorable way for the whole family to get into the spirit (!) than a stay in Hershey, PA. Hersheypark After Dark is the epicenter of all the festivities.

hotel hershey park

Accommodations: There are two different excellent choices to stay, adding to your immersion in the Hershey experience. For that super comfy, homey feeling, there’s Hershey Lodge. High wood beams, warm candy ambient fragrance as you enter, a crackling fire to welcome you and relaxing environment adds to home away from home feeling. The brand new indoor pool complex has two interactive indoor pools, Twizzlers Twists Slides, Reese’s Water Walk, water play structures and the Cocoa Cabana dining location with a full bar. To that end, complimentary shuttle service to all Hershey attractions, the spa and dining spots takes away the stress of driving.

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For an elegant and sophisticated experience, The Hotel Hershey is considered a world-class resort. The tints and hues of the hotel’s “soft goods” harken back to the colors of fine chocolates and caramels. Inside the main building is a shopping arcade that has everything from candies, souvenirs, as well as chic clothing and luxury items. Different themes can be seen in the interior, reflecting upon different aspects of Milton Hershey’s life. An indoor courtyard with recessed bar, lounging areas, Moorish architecture, warm lighting and plants hint at old Spain and the Havana, Cuba to which the Hersheys traveled and conducted business. The hotel has daily activities for both children and adults, incorporating chocolate tastings, making things and other fun past times. Complimentary transportation to all Hershey attractions and local destinations is easy to arrange.

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What to do: There’s a delicious, cinematic-like thrill in getting to experience an amusement park “after hours”. HersheyPark After Dark really pulls out all the stops for the spookiest of holidays! You’ll find lots of rides – including 13 roller coasters. The three classic wooden roller coasters, complete with naturally rickety sound, even run without lights during the last hour the park is open. And, of course, what’s Halloween without candy! Throughout the park, you’ll find cute shops selling unusual sizes and collections of your favorite Hershey candies, along with chocolate-themed gifts.

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If Hershey is the “Sweetest Place on Earth”, then Hershey’s Chocolate World must be its capital! Learn how West African cocoa and the rich milk of Central Pennsylvania come together to make one of the world’s favorite treats. Design your own fancy chocolate bar to take home. The gigantic candy store-emporium will create sensory overload, for sure!

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The Hershey Story – The Museum on Chocolate Avenue is educational on many levels. You’ll learn the inspiring story of Milton Hershey’s life along with the business and philanthropic perseverance he had. Foodies will appreciate fine chocolate tastings and making treats in the Chocolate Lab.

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Hershey Gardens was created in honor of Mrs. Hershey’s love of botanicals. They get all into Halloween, with over 150 awesome and cool carved and lit pumpkins. You can pick up candy treats – just like at home – at stops along the way. This part of the celebration is geared towards kids 12 and younger, who are encouraged to wear costumes. It might be October, but the garden is still in bloom, and the roses are both lovely and fragrant.  The butterflies are ready to see and be seen as well- even if they aren’t all decked out for Halloween.
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Save On Your New York Vacation With The New York Pass

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New York is definitely a spot that should be on your vacation bucket list – and great things are coming to New York! With a newly updated New York Pass, the City’s largest attraction pass card – the first of which is the inclusion of a free double-decker bus tour with every New York Pass purchased (thanks to a new partnership with the Big Bus New York) – now is the time to start planning that New York vacation you have always talked about.  With the New York pass it will make your Big Apple visit fast and easy as your ride along on the double-decker bus and enjoy the sights and sounds.

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Not only will you get to ride the double decker bus and tour the Big Apple, but you also get admission and discounts to over 90 must-see New York attractions. You can hop-on or hop-off at any attraction or sight that catches your eye, and then be back on your way in a matter of minutes to a new and wonderful destination of your choosing. With the New York pass, you will get more bang for your buck by saving up to 70% all while skipping the lines at several of the busiest attractions in the Big Apple area.

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American Museum of Natural History

“The New York Pass is quickly becoming a mobile metro card for tourists,” said Ken Barrows, Vice President of Leisure Pass North America LLC, the parent company of New York Pass.  “Our exciting new venture with Big Bus New York will allow our customers to maximize their use of each pass by giving tourists and locals the option of using Big Bus to have a seat with a view, or to simply travel between attractions.”

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Madame Tussauds – New York Celebrity Wax Attraction

Whether you are planning on staying in the Big Apple one day or 10 days, there are New York passes for both and everything in between.  In 2015, New York Pass launched a new “10-Day Pass” to cater to tourists staying in the Big Apple for lengthier periods of time and added new attractions such as the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and Fashion Windows Walking Tour. Every New York Pass includes a free 200-page guidebook with detailed maps, hours of operation, tips and directions to every New York Pass attraction featured.

St. Patrick's Cathedral New York

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

There has never been a better time to vacation to New York. What will your first New York attraction destination be?

For more information and a complete list of attractions where the pass can be used, please visit www.newyorkpass.com.  

Disclosure statement Disclosure- This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. For more information, please see “I Disclose”.

10 Tips on How to Survive Traveling with Children

To ensure a great and enjoyable family vacation, planning is very crucial– especially if you’re going to bring along your kids. You have to focus on what’s really important and set aside what’s not. That said, here’s a list of 10 tips on how to survive travelling with children.

Tip #1: Going to Ride a Plane? Then Briefing Is Very Important

If this would be the first time of your kids riding a plane, then you should talk about the things that could possibly happen, such as going through security. You have to explain to your children why they should be taking off their shoes or anything that has metal in it, such as watch. Likewise, don’t forget to inform them that they won’t be allowed to carry their favorite toy, or backpack through the security gates– as it’s one of the precautionary measures.

Babies and toddlers should be carried by the parents through the security screening checks. However, if the kids can already walk by themselves, then let them walk through the metal detector.

Image courtesy of news.com.au

Image courtesy of news.com.au

Tip #2: Don’t Let the Jet Lag Ruin the Fun
Even adults experience jet lag, but it’s more challenging if your children are also suffering from it. Fortunately, there’s an effective remedy that could get rid of it, such as going outside and staying active. Long walks are highly advisable, and if you can visit a park or playground, then you should be bringing your kids here.

Also, you should be wary of the time zone. If your kid eats a big breakfast and lunch, but small dinner at home, and you’re traveling from a country where there’s a 12-hour difference or more, then your child might end up getting hungry at night, until midnight. Better prepare some healthy snacks for that.

Tip #3: Get Rid of Motion Sickness
If your child suffers from motion sickness, then give him some tips on how to avoid that, such as trying to keep the head still, looking at the road ahead, getting some fresh air into the car, and not reading or using any digital device. On long car trips comfort is important so think about the clothes the kids will be in, especially if they’ll be sitting in a car seat. Anything too thick and bulky will be uncomfortable under those buckles.

 

image via http://www.thecanvasfactory.com.au/

image via http://www.thecanvasfactory.com.au/

Tip #4: Dress Comfortably
On long car trips comfort is important so think about the clothes the kids will be in, especially if they’ll be sitting in a car seat. Anything too thick and bulky will be uncomfortable under those buckles. The same goes for planes and trains.

Dress your kids comfortably if they’ll be strapped into a seat for a long time.

Tip #5: Check the Website of the Attraction Before Visiting
You don’t want to travel for hours just to find out that the museum you’re going to go to is temporarily closed for renovation. Visit their website a day before visiting the place, and stay updated with current happenings.

Tip #6: For Longer Distances, Fly
Flying is considered to be one of the safest mode of transport. Likewise, you don’t have to endure traffic at all. Kids are known to be very impatient, and that’s why you should be picking a mode of transpiration that could bring you to your destination, the shortest time possible.

Tip #7: Keep Your Child Entertained
For longer flights, it’s important to ensure that everything your kid might need is packed in the carry-on luggage. This includes a change of clothes, sick bags, snacks, drink bottle, wipes, and toys. Entertainment like books, pencils, paper, and so on should also be brought by the parent.

Image from dailymail.com.au

Image from dailymail.com.au

Tip #8: One Parent in Charge
If you’re traveling with your partner, one should have the responsibility of packing the items, while the other one should look after the kids. This would ensure that everything stays organized.

Tip #9: Prepare Your Kid
If you’re concerned that your kid might get lost during this travel, then teach him what he should be doing instead it happen. Practice scenarios like this a few days before travel to ensure that he remembers.

Tip #10: Enjoy!
This can mean a lot of things. For starters, we suggest that you make the most of your travel and prevent yourself from getting stressed. No need to become a “no, no, no” parent to your child. Just make sure that he stays safe all throughout the travel.

Tip #11: Have a Plan Ready
You don’t have to fully stick to the plan that you’re going to make, but it would be better if you’ll have a list of things that you want to do with your kids during travel. This would ensure that the vacation would be pleasant instead of stressful.

Top Breathtaking Places You Need to See in the USA

Some of the most beautiful places in the world are just a road trip away. If you’re looking to visit places with incredible natural beauty, you don’t even have to leave the United States. Taking a road trip to your destination allows you the ability to get in touch with nature and see things you’ll otherwise miss on an airplane. Take an unforgettable journey to some of the most amazing places you’ll find right here in the USA.

Preparing for Your Trip

Before you take a trip, a lot of preparation is involved. Start planning as early as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important details. Road trips can create lifelong memories, but you should always plan ahead. Automobile accidents happen even if you’re the most careful driver in the world. If you live in New York, consider consulting Brooklyn personal injury lawyers if you find yourself in need of legal assistance following an accident. Take the time to carefully plan your routes and the places you want to stop before you begin your journey.

Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington

If you want to see fields of breathtaking color that attract millions of visitors from all over, head over to Skagit Valley Tulip Fields in Washington. Plan your trip for the month of April when the flowers will be in bloom across 300 acres. Aside from the tulips, there is plenty to do in Skagit Valley including visiting the state and national parks, museums, Las Vegas-style casino, a thriving performance art scene, and an abundance of museums.

The Smoky Mountains North Carolina and Tennessee

Approximately 9 million people come to see the Smoky Mountains every year, that’s how amazing they are. Not only is the scenery completely breathtaking, but there is so much else to do. You can enjoy the waterfalls and wildflowers, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, bicycling, camping, visiting historic buildings, picnicking, and ranger-led programs. This mountain range is a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains and is along the North Carolina and Tennessee border. The mountain views are simply unforgettable and unlike any, you’ll ever see anywhere else.

Thor’s Well in Oregon

Thor’s Well is along Cape Perpetua and is uniquely beautiful. This natural deep hole is a saltwater fountain that looks as if it’s draining the ocean. The natural wonder is created by powerful ocean tides and is best viewed an hour before or an hour after high tide. The hole looks like it’s bottomless, but it’s actually around 20-feet deep. It looks exceptional magical and is something you don’t want to miss out on seeing. It can be dangerous, especially during storms, so proceed with caution.

Mendenhall Glacier Caves, Alaska

The Mendenhall Glacier Caves in Alaska looks surreal, like something that jumped right out of a painting. The glacier is 12 miles long and is accessible only by kayak. The sad thing about this natural beauty is that due to global warming, it’s beginning to retreat, which means if you want to see it, you’ll need to make a plan to visit as soon as possible.

Some of the best trips are those where you can become one with nature and enjoy natural beauty. Consider taking a road trip if you can because it will make your trip that much more unforgettable. Always prepare way ahead of time because it’s easy to miss things you need to pack or travel apps you need to download to plan your route. Wherever you decide to visit, make the most of it. Life is too short not to see the beauty of the world.

A Family Vacation to New York: Things To See and Do

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Planning a family vacation to The Big Apple? With plenty to see and do for all ages you’ll be spoiled for choice. A general itinerary of the things you hope to get through can be helpful to make the best use of your time. Here are just a few of the attractions that should be on your list!

Children’s Museum of Manhattan

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan features five floors of interactive literature, science, media and art exhibits. There are various programs, workshops and lots of things to do and see. There’s even a section for under fives, as well as things to do right up to teens. An ideal attraction to visit as a family and something you’re all sure to enjoy.

Broadway Theater

Seeing an epic Broadway show is a must while you’re in New York. There are over forty professional theaters to choose from, offering a selection of incredible world class shows. You could see Aladdin, Matilda, Wicked, The Lion King and much more. Vibrant, colorful and exciting, it’s the perfect family evening out in New York. You could consider booking your Broadway tickets in advance as shows can fill up quickly.

Highline Park and Walking Path

This stunning elevated park would make a fantastic family afternoon out in New York. There are often events on for kids including things like crafts, face painting, scavenger hunts and live performances. If you fancy a break from the big, bustling city on your vacation, a trip to the park is always good. Especially when it’s one that’s this awesome.

American Girl Cafe

There’s family dining aplenty in New York, but one quirky place to consider is American Girl Cafe. Your children can bring their American Girl dolls who will be given their own seat at the table, where you’re able to have fun tea-party style lunch. It’s something entirely different, and especially great if you have a lover of American Girl dolls in the family. As well as just dining you can choose hairstyles, piercings and pampering services for the dolls. Then watch as the looks are created in front of you by expert stylists. There’s even a station where you can design clothing items. A dream experience for a little girl (or boy!) who is into this kind of thing.

Dylans Candy Bar

Dylan’s Candy Bar features a whopping three floors of candy treats, pretty much most children’s idea of heaven! It’s fun, brightly colored and exciting to walk around as well as offering a ton of variety if you’re looking to buy some sweet treats. A fantastic place to buy souvenirs for your trip, but also an experience within itself that kids will love. There are often events and things on so have a look before your trip to work out the best time to visit. Dylans Candy Bar has been successful in a number of states, but New York is the flagship store, so you get to see where it all began.

Have you ever been on a family vacation to New York? What was your favorite thing about the trip?