6 Stunning Spots in Jamaica Every Traveler Should See

February 21, 2016 by Leave a Comment

The shores of Jamaica attract millions of visitors every year. With plenty of budget holidays and low cost accommodation, there’s never been a better time for a Caribbean holiday. If you’re planning to explore this tropical island, be sure to visit some of these jaw-dropping natural wonders.

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Mystic Mountain

The famed Mystic Mountain in Ocho Rios is home to one of the most popular, most exhilarating attractions in Jamaica. Starting your adventure into the heart of this rainforest, walking routes or a chairlift will take to you to the summit of the 700 foot mountain. Admire the spectacular ocean views before hopping aboard a bobsled. Set on a 1,000 meter metal track, you’ll whizz down the mountain and take in the vibrant eco system along the way.

Doctor’s Cave Beach

No trip to Jamaica would be complete without sampling one of its beaches. Doctor’s Cove in Montego Bay is one of the best — a sweeping strip of palm fringed white sands. It’s long been attracting visitors from around the world with many believing the crystal waters have rejuvenating and curative properties. Even the cynics can agree, this is one of the most relaxing spots on the island.

Martha Brae River

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Jamaica’s rural landscape with a guided tour down the Martha Brae River. Locals lead the expedition aboard a bamboo raft which offers an authentic insight into the region. Expect beautiful fauna and flora and make sure you bring a swimsuit. There are lots of chances to cool down with a swim and escape the midday heat.

Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park

Covering an expanse of 200,000 acres, this national park is a nature lover’s paradise. The preserve is home to more than 800 endemic plant species and over 200 species of tropical birds. Hike deep into the rainforest and you can marvel at towering waterfalls and jaw dropping scenery. The adventurous can also climb to the summit of Jamaica’s highest point, Blue Mountain Peak.

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Dunn’s River Falls

One of the island’s national treasures, this collection of cascading waterfalls is Jamaica’s top-grossing attraction. Visitors can amble across the gentle tiers of limestone or take a refreshing dip in one of the plunge pools. Arrive early and you’ll avoid the crowds of tourists for a secluded experience.

Black River

Spanning over 50km, Black River is one of the longest rivers in Jamaica. Its murky depths are home to a huge array of fish species and crocodiles. It may not be safe for swimming but visitors can take a guided boat tour and learn more about the diverse ecology. Along the way, you’ll spot herons, snowy egrets and many other beautiful bird species.

Take some time to visit some of these must-see attractions on your next Jamaica holiday and you’ll be guaranteed an unforgettable experience. It’s just one of the world’s most fantastic islands you can visit.

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Road Trip With the 2016 Mazda 6

January 26, 2016 by 6 Comments

Over the course of one of our recent excursions, we were given the opportunity to try out the new 2016 Mazda 6.  With tons of bells and whistles as well as a super efficient engine, the 2.5L SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine takes efficiency to a whole new performance level, with better EPA-estimated highway MPG than the competition.

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This car is a fun to drive, and the ride is smooth.  From the side front and rear radar, all your sides are covered and as long as you are careful, good driving is easy to do in such a safe environment.  The Mazda 6 also has the added benefit of a stellar safety system.

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This includes standard safety featureslike advanced front air bags, front side-impact air bags, side-impact air curtains*, Dynamic Stability Control* with Traction Control System, 4-wheel ABS with Electronic Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist, Available Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert*, Smart City Brake Support*, Smart Brake Support with Collision Warning*, Lane Departure Warning System*, High Beam Control, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Close Proximity Warning*.

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Overall this car was a blast to drive.  The handling felt like I was driving a larger car then I was, which kept me further from the vehicles around me (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing).  It was still something to get used to.

Especially since this is the first time I have had the pleasure of using the HUD to display speed and directions.  This is a small projected image on a see-though screen near the bottom of the windshield. This acts as a quick information window which can be glanced at while driving without distracting the driver.  (My husband loved it, he thought it was one of the coolest things about the car and he talked way too much about it- for me, it was a little unusual.)

It had a ton of trunk space, which really matters for any family. Perfect for travel, but also for those every day activities like shopping or heading to the grocery store. This model also had a GPS unit that was easy to use, and if you are like me, a necessity for getting from point A to point B once you are out of your comfort zone.  The front and back seats had lots of leg room- and head room.  My husband is nearly 6’4, and he was able to fit comfortably into the car without his head hitting the top. This is unusual.  For bigger people, it’s good to know.  My son had room in the back, even when I had my seat back.  We were all comfortable- something I can’t usually say in most cars.

Be sure to keep an eye out and check out the Mazda 6 at a local Mazda dealer near you.

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The Buccaneer Resort in St. Croix

January 24, 2016 by 7 Comments

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Modern hotels that have a historical background are always a treat to visit. The Buccaneer St. Croix  is an amazing hotel in a beautiful, perfect paradise. From sugar, to cotton and cattle, the Buccaneer has pretty much seen it all. It officially opened for business in 1947 and had only eleven guest rooms at that time.  It was the first hotel in St. Croix and was a major achievement for the family who founded it.

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The guests were known as “continentals” and would enjoy their stay with drinks, visits to the beach, painting furniture, and of course with great meals. Nightly cocktails were a must. Things have not changed all that much, and you can now enjoy music and great food along with the cocktails. There are several restaurants to choose from, and some must try cocktails  include the Cruzan Confusion, Raising Cane, Caribbean Sunset, and Jump-Up-and-Kiss-Me.  The food is amazing, and no matter if you choose to eat in the restaurant or beach-side.

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It’s amazing to think that the Buccaneer has been around for 70 years and three generations that have made the St. Croix community that much more lively and enriching. The Buccaneer is proud to be a supporter of the National Park service with the three month turtle watch program. They are also very committed to community services around the area and to funding scholarships for students to attend college.

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There are lots of fun things to do while you stay at the Buccaneer, and you can be sure that you are being environmentally friendly while you stay. The hotel has tons of environmental practices in place to make sure that they are not creating excess waste, are conserving energy, and also that the wildlife is able to live around the hotel freely as it should on the 340 acres.  You will see iguanas roaming about fairly regularly, for instance.

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The Buccaneer has been named as One of the Best Family Resorts and with great reason! They have lots of activities and amazing accommodations when it comes to family fun, as well as relaxing time with your spouse and kids. There are three beaches where your family can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and just plain lounging around. Children have lots of room to explore, splash, and play without being overrun by a lot of people.  The waters are calm, clear, and warm- perfect for anyone.

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The waters are warm even at night, and the sun sets over the water. Boats can come pick you up for a day trip right off that dock- ask the front desk for some information. (Big Beard is great!)

If you were looking to learn something new on your trip, there are classes to learn how to play golf, tennis, and even scuba diving that teens and adults can participate in. For the younger crowd (4-12) there is a complimentary Kids’ Camp. Fantastic. There are also activities for the whole family to enjoy together such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball. You can sail and snorkel. If horseback riding is more your style, then you can have that arranged as well.

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The restaurant by the main lobby has amazing views from every angle, and the staff is friendly and courteous. It’s a hard place to leave. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all served here, and live music is often played.

The Kids’ Camp has all sorts of activities for the younger of the clan to enjoy. These include activities on the beach, treasure hunts, nature walks, games, and crafts. These are all available to you during your stay year round. The kids are allowed to stay for the entire day or they can stay for just a little while to give parents the time to explore and enjoy activities on their own.

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St. Croix is more than just the Buccaneer, however and you will want to explore the town and it’s monuments. There is also a rainforest, rum factories, historical sites, and botanical gardens to cross off your list to see while you are visiting. (I’ll tell you about my favorites in the next post.)  Try something new or see something that you have never seen during your stay, this place is amazing.  Easily one of my favorite places, and that’s saying something.  If I were you, I’d look into a stay in St. Croix as soon as possible. The people, the food, the music, the history- it’s a place that stays with you long after you land home.

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4 Reasons To Add Arizona To Your Bucket List

January 15, 2016 by Leave a Comment

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Arizona is one of the hottest destinations in the United States of America. It may fly under the radar when people are racking up their bucket list points, but it’s just as deserving as any other state. It’s an area that quite simply has something for everyone. With contrasting weather, landscapes, and food, you’re bound to find something that blows your mind. Tons of different types of people flock to Arizona every year to check out what the state has to offer. Here are a few of the best things to see during your visit.

Art and Culture

Although the arts may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Arizona, it sure has plenty to offer the art enthusiast. More commonly considered a place to see natural beauty, there is also more than enough man-made treasures to be uncovered. With a bunch of different galleries and exhibitions on display, you can be sure to find something for you. Be sure to check out the crafts of the Native Americans in the area if you’re a history buff.

Golf

You’d be hard-pressed to find more golf courses as diverse as those that Arizona have to offer. With terrain ranging from uncertain sand to steady grass, you can find an appropriate setting to get your game going. There are over three hundred different golf courses in the state of Arizona, so you won’t have any trouble finding them. This all adds up to make Arizona the perfect destination for a golfing getaway. Find the best gold resorts in Arizona at http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/HotelsList-Arizona-Golf-Resorts-zfp438171.html.

Outdoors

Arizona is perhaps best known for its iconic landscapes, so why wouldn’t you do everything you can to take advantage of them? The weather is generally hot all year round, with a few exceptions, so it’s always perfect for you rambling boys. The sheer diversity of the landscapes around Arizona make it an ideal playground for you to get lost in your sense of adventure. Did we mention the small matter of the Grand Canyon? Voted the number one tourist destination in America by http://itsgr9.com/top-10-places-to-visit-in-the-us-in-2015-reviews/. Why wouldn’t you want to see that for yourself?

Shopping

If you like to do a spot of shopping on your holidays, you’ll absolutely fall in love with Arizona. There is a range of different stores all around the state, and they all cater to different audiences. Whether you’re looking for local boutiques, or giant chain stores, Arizona has you covered. With hundreds of shopping malls scattered around the state, you will never be too far from the nearest one. That means that you can take a well-earned shopping break. At least, if the thought of scaling the Grand Canyon doesn’t particularly fill you with confidence.
Next time you’re drawing up a shortlist of places to visit in the United States, don’t gloss over Arizona as a genuine contender. If you haven’t been before, resolve to give it a fair shake this time. It’s got everything it needs to rival its more glamorous cousins.

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Lassig’s Wildlife Trolley Suitcase

January 4, 2016 by 7 Comments

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If getting ready for a trip, you know the best way to keep your little ones happy and content is by keeping them busy and giving something to be responsible for.  The new Lassig Wildlife Trolley is perfect for this.  It is available in six bright Wildlife designs: Elephant, Turtle, Birdie, Tiger, Giraffe, and Rhino for those animal lovers in your life.  The bag itself sports telescoping pull handle, deep main pocket with additional mesh pockets, and zipper divider within, as well as a carrying handle and front zipper pocket.  These make the bag not only stylish and fun for kids, but also useful to pack for a weekend out at a relatives house or a big trip with the family- it’s a cute suitcase for any occasion and fits easily in the overhead bin.

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The bags are free from  PVC, AZO, Phthalates, Nickel, and Cadmium.  Your kids will be fine carrying around all their favorite night time plush and other “essentials”.  The icing on the cake for this line of suitcases is that for every product purchased from the Wildlife Collection, Lassig will donate a portion to support the Momella Foundation and two of their conservation projects: the Big Cat Guardians and the Sparkling Elephant Project, which aim to enhance creativity while educating and creating awareness for endangered wildlife species throughout Tanzania.   The suitcase also makes a great gifts as well, either as a decorative and useful container for another gift (vs just a plain old cardboard box or bag) or a fun way to let the family know a vacation is on the way- the possibilities are only limited by imagination.

Giving your child their own little suitcase will include them in the planning, “helping”, and chaotic pre-travel preparations without them being a hindrance. My own boy is actually a better listener at the airport when he has his own bag to “take car of”- just don’t expect them to put it through security on their own.  Lassig’s Wildlife Trolley Suitcase retails for $49.99 and is aimed at children aged 3+.  Available from www.Habausa.com.

Disclosure- I received an item to facilitate this review.  All opinions are my own and honest.

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Saybrook Point, CT

December 31, 2015 by 12 Comments

A vacation with a great place to stay, a spa to enjoy and of course greats eats sound like the perfect plan. Saybrook Point Inn & Spa has all of this and more. The small town feel of your stay is going to leave you wishing that you could stay forever. The friendly faces, marinas and of course the history is going to make make your visit a unique one. The Saybrook has been in business for over 130 years, so they know how to give you the perfect balance between extravagance and charm of amazing hospitality.

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You will want to experience it all from a day at the spa, to a one-of-a kind dining experience at Salt and your accommodations will be the perfect end to your day after you explore and find the shores and the marina. The Saybrook Point Inn & Spa is all about southern New England charm. You will feel it as soon as you arrive. This waterfront destination will make you happy that you chose this part of Connecticut to get away. Many hidden gems are just waiting to be discovered during your stay.

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One of the places that you are going to want to visit will be the Katharine Cultural Arts Center. People around town will affectionately call it The Kate. The building was built in 1905 and has seen multiple changes since then. In 2003 the building was restored in honor of Katharine Hepburn to honor her life and of course the legacy that she left. You will also want to book a charter and explore the beaches and open water as only a boat can allow. Adventure is good for the soul.

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Now, with adventure underway you will also want to be pampered and revitalized, so visit the spa. There you will be able to indulge in facials, massages, and a feeling of overall wellness. If you would like to see all that the Spa offers, check out the printable spa brochure.

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Ready for something good to eat? Fresh Salt is more than just a great restaurant. There are views from the restaurant that are sure to leave you speechless. Their chef uses only the freshest and most seasonal ingredients to make your dish something to never forget. It will truly be Connecticut authentic. The restaurants’ commitment to only using local food makes it so that the quality is outstanding. You can check out the menu and dine here daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Fresh Salt also offers a lighter affair of food to eat and cocktails made to enjoy an intimate evening together if you are enjoying time as a couple.

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A relaxing and adventure filled time awaits you once you book a stay at the Saybrook Point Inn & Spa. There are adventures to entice your wild side and relaxing atmospheres and good food to take your mind off of life’s hectic pace.

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The time is right for a getaway- book your stay now at http://www.saybrook.com/ .

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Top Tips To Get Your Children Excited About Your Camping Trip

December 18, 2015 by 1 Comment

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Planning a camping trip can be lots of fun, especially if you’re taking your children with you. It’s an activity that’s filled with adventure and exploration and can ultimately bring you closer together. If your kids have never experienced camping before, you may feel even more under pressure to make this a holiday to remember. There is no need to feel stressed as there are countless ways you can keep your kids entertained and get them excited about the prospect of camping. Use these tips during your planning to ensure you create fun filled and successful trip that you can all enjoy.

Get the involved in the planning

Your children can give you a great deal of help when you’re planning your camping holiday. You can show them websites and pamphlets that advertise tourist attractions and places that might be of interest to them. It could be a kid’s outdoor playground or a family friendly history trail. Compile some potential activities that are nearby to your campsite and share your findings with them. You can talk through which ones you think might be suitable and get their feedback. Be positive when you speak about each activity to grab their attention.

Make them a Camping kit

Just before you head out on your trip present your child with their own individual camping kit. This could contain a blanket, walking boots, a map, a torch and a whistle. Educational books about wildlife would also be a great item to include. This will get them in the mood for an adventure and will be an excellent treat before their vacation. Make this gift to your child personal to them by choosing camping items in their favorite color or cartoon character. You could also include board games and coloring books to keep them entertained if it’s raining outside. Take this opportunity to lay down some rules about camping safety and explain what behavior you expect from them when you arrive at the site.

Do a dummy run

Nothing will get them more excited about their camping trip than a dummy run in their own back yard. It will be beneficial to your children to have some experience in a tent before you get to your campsite, even if it is only for a few hours. They might be nervous about camping for the first time so doing this will put all of their concerns to rest. Reassure them that the tent is perfectly safe and the noises they hear are just friendly animals and insects. You can teach them how to put up the tent properly and even practise cooking outdoors if you like. This activity will also be great during your planning as it may highlight essential items you need to buy or replace before you leave.

These top tips will make sure you and your kids are fully prepared and excited about your camping holiday. Spend lots of time having fun and getting involved in a whole host of outdoor activities. Having a stress-free experience will make camping your top choice in accommodation for the future.

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4 Top Tips To Make Your Next Vacation The Best One Ever

December 18, 2015 by Leave a Comment

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Holidays play a crucial role in the lives of millions. And once you’ve been bitten by the bug, exploring the world becomes top of your agenda.

Progressions to travel and other facilities make exploration easier than ever. Budget airlines and online resources make it possible to book a vacation from the comfort of your own home. Nevertheless, if you want to get more from your next trip, there are a number of steps that must be taken.

Follow these four items, and your next vacation will exceed even your wildest expectations.

Book Better Accommodation

When booking a vacation, your primary thoughts will concern tourist attractions and other fun items. However, you should never underestimate the importance of your digs. It’s easy to dismiss it as nothing more than a bed to sleep. But anyone that has endured a terrible hotel will confirm that accommodation is much more important than that.

A great night’s sleep will allow you to achieve far more from your waking hours. Meanwhile, you should be keen to look for location and cleanliness too. The right accommodation will take your enjoyment to an entirely new level. It’s as simple as that.

Give Something Back

Vacations provide some of the most enjoyable moments in our lives. But what better way to gain ultimate satisfaction than by giving something back to those less fortunate?

The concept of volunteering abroad has become increasingly popular in recent times. The great projects give people the chance to experience wildlife up close and personal. You’ll be doing something great for the planet while also enjoying a unique trip that will not be matched anywhere else.

If animals aren’t your thing, then you can always help out a village of people. Either way, it will help you mature as a person while gaining a truly unforgettable experience.

Be Social

Whatever type of holiday you take, getting involved with the local culture is a must. Make no mistake, we all love sitting by the pool for a few days. But there’s so much to see in this beautiful world and it would be a shame to miss out.

There’s a strong chance that you’ve picked a location for a particular attraction, and you should see it. However, the guide books won’t tell you everything. Try to immerse yourself in the culture. Eat the local cuisine. Enjoy the local entertainment. Speak to the local people.

You’ll gain far greater memories for doing it.

Choose Companions Wisely

Taking a family holiday rarely poses a problem, but travelling with friends can be a great way to end a relationship. Therefore, it’s imperative that you give the process of picking a vacation buddy serious thought.

Being in proximity for extended periods can be testing, especially in a foreign land. You need to be sure that you can handle being around those people. If you are unsure, then try to arrange a big group. Travelling in a large group gives you the chance to break away. Just remember that this is your holiday too, and you should do whatever makes you smile.

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