When you tell someone you’re taking a winter vacation to Niagara Falls most people might look at you like you’re crazy. It’s winter! Why not somewhere warm like Florida, Hawaii, or the Caribbean? The fact is that winter is one of the best times to visit Niagara Falls. Not only is the entire area a sparkly, winter wonderland but because it’s off-season you’ll save money on everything, including … [Read more...]
Yosemite National Park travel tips: best tours, hikes, and advice
February 20, 2021 By
During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring the Yosemite area, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation. Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the national park system, and for good … [Read more...]
Guide to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids
February 16, 2021 By
Unless you've been living under a rock, you've been hearing the word 'Iceland' related to 'family travel' for a few years now. Families can have a great adventure in Iceland during the warm months (in fact, stay tuned for a guide to camping in Iceland with kids), but many people are still reluctant to try visiting Iceland in the winter with kids. It's a great time to visit, and if you read on, I'm … [Read more...]
Seven destinations for family biking vacations
February 15, 2021 By
Introducing your children to an active lifestyle has become more challenging with skyrocketing technological innovations. During family biking vacations, kids can quickly develop poor fitness and eating habits that lead to chronic diseases later in life without consistent physical activity. Limiting your child’s screen time to roughly two hours per day and encouraging spending time outdoors can … [Read more...]
Fun and simple ways to celebrate Mardi Gras at home
February 11, 2021 By
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much of how we live our lives and continues to affect the world in countless ways, forcing many people indoors and triggering the cancellation of some of our favorite events, as well. For instance, it was recently announced that Mardi Gras would not be running as normal in New Orleans, bringing great sadness to so many people who adore the fun and … [Read more...]
The Alamo, San Antonio Texas
December 10, 2020 By
During a time when many vacations are not possible, road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring San Antonio, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation. Ever heard the phrase "Remember the Alamo," and thought to yourself that it was simply a crazy thing Texans say? Couldn't … [Read more...]
Backcountry skiing basics: How to get into the sport
December 2, 2020 By
It's never been a better time to get into the backcountry and leave the crowds behind! Here's how to get into the sport during the COVID season! An avid downhill skier and snowshoer, I've been noting the small but growing trend toward backcountry skiing for some time now. This sport, which combines a love of nordic exploration and downhill excitement, attracts men and women (and yes, some kids) … [Read more...]
Day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park: Hiking off-trail
November 13, 2020 By
During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring the outdoors near Joshua Tree, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation. I love a guiding company that doesn’t ‘dumb down’ experiences for guests. Joshua Tree … [Read more...]
Six kid-friendly tourist attractions to visit in Pigeon Forge
November 9, 2020 By
Travel can be challenging right now. If you decide traveling is right for your family, be sure to social distance, wear masks, and quarantine upon your return. If you're ready to hit the road and take your family on an adventurer's journey, here are six incredible kid-friendly tourist attractions to visit in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Ziplining through the Great Smoky Mountains One of … [Read more...]
Planning a trip to Door County with kids
October 20, 2020 By
The moment I heard Door County, Wisconsin described as ‘the Cape Cod of the Midwest’, this family-friendly destination made perfect sense to me. Despite the fact that Lake Michigan served as the ‘ocean’ in this comparison, the description was spot-on. Door County, the narrow ‘thumb’-shaped peninsula of Wisconsin, is comprised of scenic shoreline, quaint villages, and rolling farmland. It’s Cape … [Read more...]
