Best Ski Towns: Lake Tahoe region

Planning a family vacation to the snow in Lake Tahoe? There are multiple hamlets dotting the north and west shores of Lake Tahoe that deserve recognition! And to the south, the towns of Kings Beach, Tahoe City, and Homewood are also great ski communities, with their own activities and dining options. Here's the scoop on the Lake Tahoe region in winter! Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite … [Read more...]

Squaw Valley CA with school-aged kids and teens: where to stay, dine, and ski

A ski vacation is the perfect socially-distanced getaway, in the outdoors! Every ski resort experience is different this season, so visit Squaw Alpine's website for the latest COVID updates and regulations..Squaw Valley CA has long enjoyed a reputation for challenging ski terrain for advanced and expert skiers. In the last several years--most recently after their merge with neighbor Alpine Meadows … [Read more...]

Day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park: Hiking off-trail

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...]

Guide to San Francisco

Once travel is safe for all again, San Francisco is known for many things. The Golden Gate Bridge is the first universally recognizable visual of the city, but this high-tech, art, and cultural center situated on the Pacific coastline close to the world technology hub of Silicon Valley and the famous vineyard region of Napa Valley has so much more unique attractions to offer. Apply for visa … [Read more...]

Multi-night river rafting on the Tuolumne River

The Tuolumne River near Yosemite National Park is one of the most pristine and exciting rivers I've experienced. But is river rafting safe during COVID-19? My fifteen-year-old son and I rafted the Tuolumne River for three days with OARS, and not only did we have the usual amazing time on the river I've come to expect from an OARS trip, but we felt safe and responsible, too. All of our OARS … [Read more...]

Tips for celebrating the holidays at Disneyland Resort

The holiday season truly is magical at the Disneyland Resort, bustling with special events, entertainment, and decorations. It’s also bustling with holiday crowds, which can certainly impact your experience. Here’s how to enjoy all the holiday magic while navigating the masses. Tip 1: Know when to go The holiday season at Disneyland and California Adventure officially launches in early November … [Read more...]

The Wizarding World at Universal Studios Hollywood: What to know before you go

If you have kids who live and breathe all things Harry Potter, and you can't take them on a trip to the motherland, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios is the next best thing. With the Wizarding World is now open on both coasts, we opted to check out Hogwarts and Hogsmeade in Hollywood. Read on for our best planning tips: Don't forget to budget time for one of the best … [Read more...]

Things to do on Channel Islands with kids

Channel Islands National Park is located right off the coast of Ventura, CA, but feels a million miles away from the rest of Southern California. The park has a different vibe than most: the main visitor's center is located not in the park, but in the Ventura Harbor, where visitors depart for the islands, and the islands themselves remain remote, isolated, and almost completely … [Read more...]

Lodging near Joshua Tree National Park

The first time we visited Joshua Tree National Park, we stayed in Indian Cove campground and spent almost all our time within the park boundaries. We never regret spending time in parks; however, several unique lodging opportunities exist in nearby 29 Palms and by the unincorporated town of Joshua Tree. Looking for lodging near Joshua Tree? Here’s where to stay hear Joshua Tree National Park if … [Read more...]

What to do in Oceanside California with kids

We all know San Diego and Carlsbad are great for kids, but if you’re overlooking Oceanside, you’re missing the opportunity for a prime vacation that includes beachfront, a funky town, and easy access to the best of San Diego county. They say Oceanfront is ‘rising’ for a reason. Here’s what not to miss with kids or without: Around town: Surf lessons: Oceanside has a long surfing history … [Read more...]