Amy Hagstrom - Pitstops for Kids

Five foundational Aventura Clothing pieces for spring trips

April 13, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Spring travel brings all types of weather, making packing a challenge. If you want to pack carry-on-only this spring but need to bring along outerwear, boots, and other ‘just in case’ items, it’s crucial to plan your main wardrobe carefully. What you need to do: identify core clothing pieces that provide you with a packing foundation: a few pairs of neutral pants, layering tanks and tees, and lightweight spring jackets that pull it all together. Add a few tops and scarves and you’re set!

Foundational Aventura Clothing pieces for spring:

Regular readers know I’m an Aventura Clothing ambassador, but I accept this gig year after year because no joke: I think Aventura Clothing is the best women’s casual clothing brand out there. Why? Most pieces are organic cotton or bamboo that don’t wrinkle and feel great, Aventura offers Fair Trade items, and its eco-conscious ethos is something I can get behind. Aventura’s clothes are flattering and stylish, but most importantly to this traveler, they’re practical and comfortable. Here’s what to make sure you have ready for your spring carry-on:

Channing Jogger: My new favorite pants! These cute jogger-style pants come in four neutral colors and adds a casual vibe to any outfit without looking like you’re in sweatpants. Because oh no. You’re in fitted, flattering organic cotton. For a price of $82, I think I might get a second pair in another color (remember, Pit Stops for Kids readers get a steep Aventura discount…see details at the bottom of this post).

Arden V2 Capri: A classic capri pant is key. I love the Arden (long a staple at Aventura) and this new version has an even more flattering fit. I love that the legs can roll up to an 18″ pedal-pusher length or be rolled down to a 24″ length. Perfect for transitioning seasons. It’s organic cotton and comes in a bunch of fun colors for $79.

Zelda Tank: I recommend this tank every season for every packing need for a reason, people! It’s the perfect layering piece! This stretchy tank fits under any top, and can be worn alone when the day heats up. Plus, it’s on sale for under $13. Get several!

Gilda Legging: With its chevron print, the Gilda legging is stylish and goes with everything. I always toss several pairs of leggings or tights in my bag: they take up hardly any room and can create multiple outfits. Pair this one with a hoodie or sweater or with a dress or skirt.

Tara Jacket: This fitted jacket gives you a crisp, tailored look while keeping you warm when that spring day decides to take a detour back to winter. It’s not too lightweight (there’s some heft to this jacket), and the military-style, full-button front is very stylish. Best of all, you get lots of pockets and the whole thing is organic cotton for $99. I love the oil green color, but since I already own two jackets in a similar shade, I went with white. I’m a bit concerned about this now…how will I keep white clean? At least it’s machine washable.

Supplement your five pieces with past seasonal staples:

Or, check out these additional new offerings:

Tops such as the Sheridan or Ridley LS: I personally think every woman needs some plaid in her life. The Ridley fits so nicely, it can go from horseback to back deck to dinner. The Sheridan is even more feminine with decorative buttons on the back and a more tailored look.
Organic cotton dresses such as the Yardley: I’m in love with this faux wrap, tulip-hem dress. It has an Oriental flair to it, and can be dressed up or down easily. It’s definitely coming on spring trips!
A hoodie or pullover like the Amaris Hoodie: this super simple hoodie gets the job done. You look cute while staying warm when the weather turns, and the neutral pattern on this black-and-gray hoodie goes with just about everything.

Want to try Aventura Clothing at a discount? Use coupon code Whitley20 at checkout for 20% off any Aventura order (even sale items). Limited to one time use per customer. Must create or have a current logged in account with Aventura (free to set up).

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Three multigenerational trip ideas in the outdoors

April 10, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Multigenerational travel is so important in today’s reality of extended family often living great distances away, and kids becoming more and more scheduled, with less opportunity for quality time with parents and grandparents. We’ve written extensively on the type of trips that make for ideal multigenerational trips, the best of which include group tours led by experts in the outdoors. Why do these work so well? Because putting someone else in charge takes the pressure and stress off the adults, and spending your vacation in the wilderness (or even just outdoors) eliminates the distraction and intrusion of screens, kids’ clubs, and activities that separate family members.

And guess what? Your kids won’t fight you on it. At least not for long. Because we’ve taken a ton of trips of various types, and here’s what they love: simplicity, togetherness, unstructured free time, and most of all, chilled parents.

Three multigenerational trip ideas:

1. At a national park. Can you DIY a national park trip? Of course. But you won’t always want to, especially if you’re visiting a very popular park in peak season. Take Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks as an example. These are among our all-time favorite parks, but the traffic jams in summer can be off-putting. How to remedy this situation: book a Yellowstone trip with a guided service like Austin Adventures. When we visited Yellowstone with a family vacation expert leading our tour, we enjoyed a fully catered experience that left the adults relaxed and happy and the kids engaged. With the insider knowledge of an expert, we planned a trip that skipped the popular attractions like Old Faithful when they were most crowded, bringing us to view the geyser when the crowds had dispersed. We got off the beaten path into the wilds of the parks, and best of all, my parents never had to worry about driving and my husband and I never had to give a thought to what was for dinner.

Dan Austin, the founder of Austin Adventures, has been leading Yellowstone trips for 25 years. Now, his capable son and daughter are running the show. A Yellowstone trip with them lasts almost a week, and you don’t miss any of the traditional national park fun your family looks forward to, like participating in Junior Rangers or checking out the museums and gift shops. You just get more: more park, more family time, more insider knowledge.

2. On a small ship cruise. Any cruise is a good bet for a multigenerational group, as it has so much for everyone to do. But on mega cruise ships, sometimes there can be too much of a good thing. What I mean by this: with so many different directions to scatter, families find themselves just as busy as at home, and spending just as little time together. When we embarked on a small ship cruise (we’ve done two: one with Alaskan Dream Cruises and one with Uncruise), we found that we were busy and engaged together, with active grandparents participating right alongside the kids. Destinations for small ship cruises are endless, though we do recommend nature-focused cruises to locations like Alaska and Costa Rica because kids become so entranced by the wildlife and hiking and adventuring. When grandparents need a break, ship time is relaxed and pampering, and everyone eats meals together; a great time to compare notes on the day.

3. On the river: If you really want to get away with your family without distractions, go on a river rafting trip. We’ve done many, all with O.A.R.S. Rafting and we’ve loved them all, from Oregon’s Rogue River to Idaho’s Salmon River to points in-between. We’ve gone on river trips as a mother-son adventure, with grandparents, and even as a couples-only getaway. O.A.R.S. takes care of everything, so there’s no experience required, and you’re truly in remote country, so you can say adios to your cell phone, laptop and any other screens. The detox from technology is amazing.

Have you planned a multigenerational trip in the outdoors? Where have you gone?

Disclosure: This post written in partnership with Austin Adventures, to help spread the word about the importance of family travel vacations.

Four family-friendly Ohio road trip destinations

April 6, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

If you are planning a road trip for your family, chances are you will not be alone on the highway. One survey released by a major travel company revealed that 35 percent of families take at least one vacation together annually, with some taking two or three trips per year. When it comes to popular destinations in America, Ohio often tops the list because of its family-friendly offerings, and there are several that stand out if you are ready to explore this fun and fascinating state.

1. The Wilds: Cumberland

The animal lovers in your family will thrill to The Wilds, a sanctuary that stretches over 9,000 acres of land and where over two dozen different species of mammals, insects, and reptiles roam free. Take safari-style bus tours during the day and then retire to The Lodge for comfort and convenience during an overnight stay. The Wilds also offers family-friendly activities as well, including horseback riding and zip line adventures.

2. Lake Erie Shore

Lake Erie is the fourth smallest of the Great Lakes, but when it comes to adventure, it’s one of the largest in the state. Enjoy wildlife parks and the beauty of Maumee Bay State Park, where you can relax on two sandy beaches, enjoy a two-mile boardwalk stroll, or simply enjoy the view of the lakeshore. If you have any thrill seekers in the family, then you can head to Cedar Point Amusement Park, which features a breathless collection of roller coasters and other thrill rides, all with panoramic lake views.

3. The Valley Gem Sternwheeler

If you and your family are looking for a nautical adventure after your road trip to Ohio, then you might be able to find it on the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers when you board the Valley Gem. This pleasure cruiser, which can accommodate over 900 passengers, offers river tours between Pittsburgh and Cincinnati from early spring through late November. The boat features its own restaurant, a shaded upper deck, and a temperature-controlled lower deck for comfort. All ages are welcome on a 90-minute cruise that is sure to please.

If you plan to drive to Pittsburgh and take both river tours, you may want to ask your auto insurance company if you are covered in both states. Because coverage may vary depending on location, it is wise to meet with your agent before your trip to ensure you are covered if you plan to venture into nearby Pennsylvania.

4. The Christmas Story House

For those who love Christmas all year round, a road trip to Ohio would not be complete without a visit to the house from the iconic holiday movie, “A Christmas Story.” The house where the movie was filmed has been lovingly preserved, and after you walk through, you can cross the street and visit the movie museum, where some of the props are on display. If you are a die-hard fan, you and the family can stay overnight in the home, which would make a visit to this Ohio landmark complete.

Taking a road trip to Ohio with your family can make for a wonderful vacation, whether you travel overnight or choose to explore the entire state during an extended holiday. No matter where you roam, spending time with family can be the greatest adventure of all.

Travel Gear We Use: Best rain boots for kids and adults

April 6, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Will Spring Break travel take you somewhere a little soggy? Do you have a road trip or camping trip planned in a rainy climate? Maybe you simply live, as we do, in the Pacific Northwest! Either way, you’re probably outfitting your family in rain boots this spring, and we’ve rounded up the best ones for travel days, camping trips, and all those days in-between.

Best rain boots for kids:

Kamik Stomp: When you buy boots, it’s nice when they can be passed down to a little brother or sister or two, and the quality of Kamik boots allow you to do just that. They’re also lightweight, no-nonsense, and cute. The Stomp fits feet sized 1-6, comes in classic colors, and retails for only $30. Our kid’s Stomps have been to the Olympic rainforest, Vancouver Island, and our own backyard. They’re light enough to toss into the back of the mini-van (along with everyone else’s boots) for a road trip into the outdoors, but sturdy enough to tromp through muddy hiking trails.

Muck Hale: If you need a boot that can go from snow to rain to mud to, well, muck, the Muck Hale is the one and only. We love this boot (which comes in adult sizes, too). It’s got a waterproof, rubberized bottom, and a fully insulated with 4mm NEOPRENE top. This means it’s easy to get the boot on and off (thank goodness!) and flexible enough to allow kids to snowshoe in them. My kid uses his as his after-ski boot in the snow, but also wears them to school for muddy outdoor play. The Hale is $69.99, but you get three season use out of them. Our favorite part: in addition to solid colors and patterns, the Hale comes in My Little Pony and Transformers designs…good to know if you have a fan.

Our midwest contributor had her young kids test out the Hasbro Hales. Here’s what she has to say: What kid wouldn’t like Optimus Prime or Rainbow Dash footwear? The Hale boots are made of a foamy material that is soft inside and out, but still feels durable enough to hold up to use by more than one child. My seven-year-old had a fabulous time tromping through the rocky, very cold creek in November with his Cub Scout den. If you put an extra pair of socks on the kids, the boots will do double duty as snow boots, providing the temperatures aren’t too cold. We used them that way, too, although I wouldn’t guarantee them for deep drifts and very cold temperatures.

The Hasbro boots come in two styles. We tried Hale ($69.99), but for thirty dollars more, you can also get the character boots designed for more extreme winter weather (Rugged II).

Best rain boots for women and women:

Muck Breezy for women: If you’re packing an entire carload of stuff, you don’t need bulky rain boots added to the mix. The Muck Breezy angle-height boot comes in super cute patterns and colors but only comes to 7″ height. I love that they’re totally waterproof and easy to walk in; I’ve walked all over Vancouver in mine, during a trip in which I needed to pack light. The Breezy is on sale and under $70 right now! Don’t forget, the Hale comes in women’s sizing, too. Pick it up for yourself!

Xtratuf Legacy and Elite: If you’ve visited Alaska, you’ve seen Xtratuf boots. These classic brown and yellow rubber boots seem to be everywhere in Southeast. The women’s Legacy is 15″ high, so you have great coverage to your knee, but can also fold down to reveal a very pretty inner lining pattern. So you get the classic look with a pop of color. The men’s version of the Legacy also folds down or up, and the men’s Elite adds insulation. Xtratuf boots live up to their name and can be found for under $150.

Spring family travel tip: Place the entire family’s rain boots in a travel laundry bag, and store the bag in the back of the car on road trips. Everyone’s boots will be easy to access when you stop, and the car will stay clean after they’re worn.

Disney World monorail resort restaurants: where to go and when

April 4, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

We love the Disney World monorail: it’s iconic, fun, fast, and easy. Strollers slide on and off with ease, lines are always at a minimum, and for kids, it’s a ride in itself. We try to take the monorail as often as possible during a Disney trip, in order to keep stress at a minimum.

Our top Disney monorail tip: use this transportation to travel from the Magic Kingdom to Disney World monorail resort restaurants for fun or relaxing meals.

First, a quick tutorial: the Disney Resort loop connects the Contemporary, Polynesian, and Grand Floridian via monorail. A second monorail line connects the Magic Kingdom with the Transportation and Ticket Center: this is how you can get directly to Epcot or connect to other parks and resorts via bus. The resort loop is what we’re focusing on today, and it goes in a single direction: from the Magic Kingdom, it stops at the Contemporary, then the Poly and the Grand Floridian, in that order. Therefore, if you’re at the Grand Floridian, the Magic Kingdom will be the very first stop (3-5 minute ride, tops).

Our dining pick in each Disney World monorail resort:

Chef Mickey:

A classic dining experience in the Contemporary, Chef Mickey is our pick for the first dining you do in the World. Why? It hits all the buttons: you ride the monorail directly into the building, you see Mickey and his gang almost immediately, and you eat a buffet meal (read: no waiting). I know the Contemporary gets some grief, but I like the wide, bright atrium where Chef Mickey is located, and appreciate the very classic Disney feel of this restaurant. Use the dining plan to book this character meal (or experience sticker shock when you get the bill), and enjoy this experience just before entering the Magic Kingdom for the first time of your trip. Need to see the menu?

Where to go to chill: Find some quiet in the convention section of the hotel. Even if there’s an event going on, which is almost always, the hallways outside the meeting spaces are usually peaceful.

Kona Cafe:

Aloha! Welcome to the Polynesian. We think O’hana gets all the attention (and certainly deserves its fair share), but Kona Cafe is often overlooked, and has many of the same menu items in a more relaxed, quiet atmosphere. For a break from the parks, this is what you need! Have the Tonga Toast at breakfast, or go all out at lunch or dinner, making use of the sushi bar and wonderful seafood entrees. Kona Cafe is listed as casual dining (for use with the Disney Dining Plan), and adult plates range from $15-$29. View the menu here.

Where to go to chill: Head through the lush gardens to the Polynesian beach, of course. If you’re lucky, you’ll snag a hammock or swing chair. No, you don’t have to be a resort guest to use these!

1900 Park Fare:

For our money, 1900 Park Fare is where to go for that special character meal outside the parks, especially if you’ve already seen Mickey and Co. 1900 Park Fare is home to the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast, the Wonderland Tea Party, and Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner. What does this mean? Reservations are crucial (up to 180 days in advance). Use the dining plan to book these expensive meals.

However, if character dining is not on your wish list, take a ride to the Grand Floridian (or take the boat…you’ll see the dock right across from the monorail station), and head to the quiet, crowd-free Grand Floridian Cafe instead. We loved the breakfast here, and had empty tables on either side of us, even during Spring Break.

Where to go to chill: Head outside, past the Gasparilla Grill (quick service restaurant) to find a chair overlooking the marina. Kids can watch the boats come and go and (maybe) you can catch a few minutes with your eyes half-closed.

Whispering Canyon:

Ok, this Wilderness Lodge restaurant is not on the monorail loop, but it’s within park distance without getting in a car or bus. Here’s how: from the Magic Kingdom, take the ferry to Fort Wilderness and the lodge.

Unlike Grand Floridian Cafe or Kona Cafe, Whispering Canyon is NOT the restaurant to retreat to when you’re on stimulation overload from the parks. Instead, hit up this restaurant before your park day, like we recommended with Chef Mickey. We like to come here for a fun lunch after a restful morning, and take the boat straight to the Magic Kingdom afterward. It’s large, loud, and usually crowded, and the wait staff love to play practical jokes, tease, and sing. Expect to be entertained, not relaxed. Here’s your menu!

Where to go to chill: After or before your meal, head either to the grand lobby to sit in a rocking chair by the fireplace, or walk out back to the pool area, where kids will enjoy seeing the ‘creek’ that flows from the indoors to the outdoors.

Moral of the story: don’t be afraid to make good use of Disney transportation! The Disney monorail resort restaurants provide extra Disney magic (and a chance to catch your breath), and you don’t need to be a guest at one to stop by, enjoy the ambiance, and relax!

San Diego with kids: U.S.S. Midway attraction

April 2, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been in San Diego with kids and not gone to the U.S.S. Midway attraction. This incredible museum is comprised of the actual aircraft carrier that now sits in the San Diego harbor. Kids who love military vessels and planes will be in heaven, and even if your level of interest for these items is usually closer to lukewarm, you’ll still be blown away. We spent an hour here, thinking that would be enough, but wished we had at least 2.5 hours.

The U.S.S. Midway was in operation from 1945-1992. As families tour three main decks, a self-guided audio tour and interesting signage depicts what working aboard the ship (and general life aboard the ship) was like in all of these eras. A helpful staff member recommended we start at the top of the ship on the flight deck and work our way down, and he was right: seeing the planes (and the views of the harbor) first was a great idea. Starting here gave us a good introduction to what an aircraft carrier does. Throughout the flight deck, docents in yellow hats offer various talks on flying planes and landing them on the carrier and duties aboard. Most are retired military personnel, and they’re well worth stopping to listen to. Their passion for the subject was evident, and we really enjoyed hearing their accounts of time spent on the Midway.

From the top deck, we headed back to the hangar deck, where we sat in cockpits (and tried not to feel claustrophobic!). Then we visited the City at Sea area, which actually includes the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th decks. I found this to be the most interesting part of the ship: we toured berths, mess halls, officer’s quarters, the war room, a hospital wing, and even a dentist office and barbershop. Walking through the labyrinth of hallways and staircases, you really get a feel for life aboard a carrier.

The tour is self-guided, with the exception of an optional 30 minute tour of the bridge/flight tower at the top of the ship, which is led by a docent. These tours depart regularly from the flight deck, and are worth waiting for if you’re traveling with school-aged kids. The audio tour of the rest of the ship is included in your admission, and definitely worth doing. It’s well-planned, in that the exhibits are numbered, and visitors can simply input the numbers they want to listen to into their audio set, and skip the ones they aren’t interested in. There’s both a kid version and an adult version, and every headset can play both, so older kids can opt for either. Honestly, I found the kid version to be more interesting!

Admission:

Adult tickets are $19, youth/student is $15, and kids (6-12) are $10. Five and under is free. Families can get $2 off per person by ordering online, and current military personnel get in free. The better deal: the Midway attraction is included in a Go Select pass…these city passes definitely save money.

Hours of operation:

10 am to 5 pm daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas). Last admission is 4 pm.

Dining:

There’s a cafe on-site on the hangar deck, overlooking the harbor, which scores points on the fun factor. Otherwise, plan to visit between meals. Vending machine drink machines are located on both the hangar deck and flight deck, should you need waters.

Directions:

The Midway is easy to find right on the harbor by the Manchester Grand Hyatt at 910 N. Harbor Drive. Parking is on-site, or families can walk from most downtown areas. Pedicabs and regular taxi cabs are readily available outside the museum.

As I disclose whenever applicable, I experienced the U.S.S. Midway as a guest of the attraction, for the purpose of review.

Why study abroad: how to help your teen travel

March 28, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

As my children grow and become more experienced travelers, I’ve been thinking and writing more often about teen travel and study abroad experiences. Last year, our 15-year-old flew solo to Costa Rica to join an Adventures Cross Country trip, which proved to be an enriching, deeply impactful two-week adventure for him. The experience left us wanting more!

I recently had the privilege of interviewing Jessie Voigts, publisher of Wandering Educators, a travel library for people curious about the world. She founded and directs the Youth Travel Blogging Mentorship Program, and has published six books about travel and intercultural learning, with more on the way.

I wanted to hear from Jessie about the importance of teen and college-aged travel, and how to get started. For many, including myself, the sheer range of study abroad options can be overwhelming. Here’s what Jessie has to say about both the WHY and the HOW of teen travel.

Q: What age did you first travel abroad? Where did you go, and what were your most lasting impressions from this trip?

I first went abroad to Japan when I was in 8^th grade. We had hosted a Japanese exchange student the summer before, and I was eager to go visit her! I was very happy to be going somewhere I’d always wanted to go, and also very surprised at how different Japan was from what I’d researched. This was before the internet, and so all the research we could do was in books, encyclopedias, and movies. I loved the food, the house structure (the toilet separate from the rest of the bathroom, taking off your shoes), my host family, and all of the wonderful things we did together. It instilled in me a love of discovering new adventures, food, friends, and places. It also taught me that there’s nothing like sushi.

Q: How (and why) have you instilled a love of travel in your own child?

We definitely have instilled a love of travel in our daughter, who is now 12. We have always had global meals, art, music, friends, and culture in our home – it’s just a part of our lives. When she was small, she was enamored with Paris. (Still is. Don’t blame her, I love Paris, too.) When she was three and at gymnastics class, the teacher asked the kids to imagine they could go anywhere…where would they go? Answers included McDonald’s, the playground, a friend’s house… and Lillie said Paris. Most of the kids there didn’t even know what that was!

Get your kids started early in being curious about the world. There’s more to the world than what’s in your town – show your kids that!

It’s easy to strew your house and lives with both intercultural artifacts and curiosity, and by living your own passion for different places, foods, and the arts. Once your kids see you being interested in the world, they will become so, too.

Jessie with her family

Q: As an educator, what benefits can you see from travel in your own child or students you come across? How does the experience of studying abroad translate to better study habits or learning at home?

I think the most important thing that travel and international experiences teach is that difference exists, and it’s ok to have different world views – this is called ethnorelativism. Any time people learn about the world first-hand, they have a personal stake in that place, culture, and people. Wars are personal, because people we know and love can get hurt. Natural disasters mean more, because our friends or places we love might be forever changed. A meal we loved in a new place can be recreated at home, for our friends and family. This makes the world smaller, and peace possible – connection by connection.

Global knowledge is also a necessity in the workplace – because the workplace is global! Your coworkers might be located all around the world. There’s, of course, the focus on flexibility, adaptability, and nimbleness to change – all things that travelers learn first-hand.

But when someone speaks multiple languages, and understands how different cultures work, they not only become a critical asset to a company, but also showcase how international business should be run – with experience, wisdom, and intercultural sensitivity.

Also, it’s been proven that study abroad makes you smarter.

Q: Studying abroad is very expensive. What would you say to the parent who might argue that for the price of one child studying abroad, the whole family could travel together? Is this more beneficial?

There are so many grants and programs for studying abroad that this is not really true for those who are willing to put in the time to research it, and who fit into the guidelines for these programs. Our government runs many programs that are free to participants.

Jessie with daughter Lillie in Chicago

Can’t find a grant or program? Crowd-fund! Teach your child how important it is to work for something they want. Maybe they will take photos and print them for donors, or learn to cook a meal and prepare it for them, when s/he gets home from abroad. Or work hard mowing lawns, babysitting, or shoveling snow. Have them cook meals when you want to go out to eat – and put that money you would have spent into their travel fund. There are many ways to earn money – and this will show your child the benefits of hard work. Saving $40 on a meal here will buy them plenty of espresso and gelato in Italy. Tip: read this article before deciding teen travel is too expensive!

And while I love family travel, there’s also a time in your kids’ lives where they need to learn to stand on their own two feet. You’re there for them, but really, that adventure should be their own. They’ll emerge remarkably strong, with a resilience that should be cherished.

Save money yourself and take the family to visit your overseas child at the end of their time abroad – not only will they be showing their family a place they love, but it will also show your child that you are excited about their new experiences, explorations, and life changes they’ve gone through.

Q: How can parents best identify the right study abroad programs for their teens? There are so many out there!

I’d suggest sitting down together and discussion what they’d like to get out of it. Do they want to study a particular field? Or are they more interested in being in a place – and fulfilling some general education credits? Is there a professor they’d love to work with, or an experience they can’t get anywhere else? Once you’ve narrowed that down, and put some thought into it, then google will be your friend. There are so many programs out there that by knowing what they want before they dive in, they’ll be better able to target the exact programs that fit their needs.

Tip: Help kids have success wherever their academics take them by teaching them how to construct well-written essays with programs like https://www.customessaymeister.com

Don’t forget direct enrollment – many students do this, and gather credit for their home university, or graduate from an international university (with full scholarships!). This is also a good option for those committed to a certain place, field, or faculty.

Q: What are your thoughts on traveling in groups (a school class or select friends) vs. traveling solo (meeting up with a group you don’t know)? Do kids get more out of the experience when they’re not with friends?

First, I’d like to say that any international experience is a good thing! However, there are ways to inter-culturally maximize your time overseas, and the main way is to immerse yourself in the culture as much as possible.

My son Nate making new friends in Costa Rica

Go without a group of friends, and make friends there – from the locale in which you’re living, or with other international students. Don’t stay connected to home so much – and I know you miss your friends and family! But calling and texting all the time won’t get you out the door and experiencing life where you are now. It’s a crutch that keeps you from living.

Figure things out yourself, go explore, make new friends, and be willing to try new things, foods, experiences. You’ll never be in that exact place again – take advantage of it, and you’ll have a rich, challenging, life-changing adventure.

Q: Your site is so clearly focused on lifelong learning. How does travel naturally facilitate learning at all ages?

The genius thing about travel (and life) is that you’re always learning! Whether it is culture, history, literature, music, food, languages, geography, anthropology, sociology, religion, architecture, art, sports, media, and more, travel packs a learning punch like no other. It can teach us at any age, and will always teach us. That’s the beauty of the world, isn’t it? We’re always learning!

Thank you, Jessie, for taking the time to talk to Pit Stops for Kids readers!

Jessie Voigts is a mom who loves sharing the world with her daughter. She has a PhD in International Education, and is constantly looking for ways to increase intercultural understanding, especially with kids (it’s never too young to start!). She has lived and worked in Japan and London, and traveled around the world.

Photo credit: Visions Service Adventures and Jessie Voigts

Tips for booking airfare

March 26, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

With airfare at a new low, now is the time to book that last minute trip! Here’s what you need to know, with all our top tips for booking airfare:

Use the 24-hour cancellation rule. After booking, check the fare the next morning. If it’s gone down, take advantage of most airlines’ 24-hour cancellation rule and cancel and rebook the flight.

Book on a Tuesday; leave on a Wednesday. This golden rule of flight booking still applies! Make sure you sit down to do your actual booking on a Tuesday, and if possible, be flexible enough to fly on a Wednesday. At very least, go into the booking process with a two-day “window” for your departure and return dates to take advantage of airline website calendars, which show fare changes from day to day.

Like your favorite airlines on Facebook. Airlines often post their inside sales on their social media channels first. By becoming a fan, you reap the benefits of being the airline’s prime customer base. Airlines reward these loyal followers with flash sales.
Book two 1-way fares on different airlines. Many airlines offer incredibly low fares, going one way. Passengers then find high fares for the return flights. To avoid this issue, consider booking your inbound flight on a different airline than that of your outbound flight.
Use an airline that offers companion fare perks like Southwest or Alaska. Here’s how to use Southwest companion tickets.
Book six weeks in advance. This time frame has been proven best for domestic flights. International flights should be booked four to six months in advance. Now that you’ve booked your flight, it’s time to ensure you get the seats you want. You do not need to leave this important aspect of your travel day up to chance!
Book early and select a seat at booking. If you book early enough, you should get your pick of window and aisle seats, without paying anything extra.

Liking these tips? Find even more in our post on booking the cheapest possible airfare, every time!

Ask an agent whether new seats have opened up at check in. Often, elite or frequent fliers book the best economy seats early on and then are bumped up to business or first class, leaving their prime economy seats empty at the last minute.
Flying solo at the last minute? Don’t pick your seat online. Instead, check in, but wait to select a seat assignment if the only seats remaining include undesirable middle seats. Airline agents are required to seat all checked-in passengers; as such, after all those middle seats are reluctantly claimed by other last-minute passengers, more appealing seats will be opened up toward the front of the plane, free of charge. This tactic is a gamble, but because you’re guaranteed a seat (provided you have checked in), you have nothing to lose.
Look for a seat in a row with one seat already taken. When selecting your seat online, avoid rows with all seats open. Instead, look for a window or aisle seat in a row with one seat already taken. That middle seat will be among the last chosen by passengers, increasing your odds of having some empty space in which to stretch out.
Beware picking your seat via a third-party site. If you book via a third-party website, note that their seat assignments don’t always make their way to the hosting airline’s computer system. We once booked tickets and chose seats on a cross-country flight months in advance only to scramble for a seat assignment at the airport. If possible, book directly through the airline website. If you do book third-party, read our tips here.

Source: Fix.com Blog

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Fun places to visit with your family around Australia

March 21, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Traveling with your kids and making memories as a family is essential. It not only gives you something to look back on when your kids are older, but it also strengthens your bond as a family.

And while you look for places to go, choose to visit the smallest continent in the world: Australia. It has everything you could ever ask for in a family vacation: it’s educational, it has beaches, and it’s downright awesome! Now that you’ve chosen to go to this fantastic land, here are a few itinerary tips for when you go with your kids in tow:

Sydney

One of the first places to stop by in Australia is of course Sydney. There are plenty of family-friendly activities for you and your family to try. Some of these include the coastal walk from Bondi Beach to Congee, family surf lessons where everyone can participate, and of course, climbing over the Harbor Bridge.

The city also has a great public transport system, so you shouldn’t find it too hard to get to places you need to go. What’s more, there are a variety of restaurants and museums to check out.

Blue Mountains

Located two hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers an experience unlike any other. Take a ride on the Scenic Railway, also known as the world’s steepest incline railway or the Scenic Skyway, which is a glass-bottom sky tram that can raise you up and give you the best way to see everything the Blue Mountains have to offer. From here, you can see the Three Sisters, Wentworth Falls as well as Jamison Valley. If you have enough time, you can take the family to see the Jenolan Caves.

Uluru

One of the most famous attractions of the Northern Territory, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a must visit place for anyone who wishes to see this most talked about landmark. The Uluru is best viewed at sunset or sunrise, where it is said to change colors as the light hits it just right.

While waiting for the Golden Hour, you can take this time to go on other adventures in the area including camel back riding.

Great Barrier Reef

Getting to see the Great Barrier Reef in all of its…. Greatness requires time and patience. That is because the Whitsunday Islands are only accessible through infrequent flights and boat launches. But when you arrive at one of the few resorts on the island, you will see that it was all worth it. Here, you can check out the sandy white beaches as well as proximity to the reef that will allow you to get close and personal with it.

A helpful tip for those who want to fly to the islands: Book window seats to catch a first glimpse of the reef. They will make for great photos to remember your trip.

Daintree Rainforest

While you’re out there checking off World Heritage Sites off your “To-Go” list, then might as well stop by Daintree Rainforest. Located within Daintree National Park, Daintree Rainforest is the oldest known rainforest on the planet.

While here, you can check out the Daintree Discovery Centre where you can learn all about the region. A great way to give your kids a quick history lesson without being too dull. Next, you can wander through the forest through elevated boardwalks and marvel at the plant and wildlife that live there. Other fun activities you can try out as a family include zip line tours for thrill seekers and horseback rides.

When it comes to family, more often than not, the journey is what matters most. Learn more about each member of your family all while enjoying everything the great country of Australia has to offer.

Going on a trip requires you to take on a long drive. And sometimes, your family car just isn’t up for the task. If that’s the case, then you should look into finding a mid-size car rental to ease your worries and ensure that your family is safe on the road.

Best snorkeling beaches in Kauai North Shore

March 21, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

One of the best activities in the Hawaiian islands is snorkeling in Kauai. Need to know where to go? Read on for our top snorkeling beaches on Kauai’s North Shore, compiled after a week of sampling (I know, rough job, right?). Here’s what we found out:

Anini Beach:

This was the first beach we visited on Kauai, and it did not disappoint. Because it’s surrounded by reefs, Anini is very calm and great for young kids…which is why we list it in our best Kauai beaches for babies and toddlers. But it also has great snorkeling. In the first five minutes we were out in the water, we saw multiple sea turtles. Further exploration off the shore rewarded us with schools of fish and sea slugs.

We loved that the shallow water lets you explore further out while still being able to touch, and that the sea turtles came in close enough that even young kids could see them easily. When not in the water, Anini still wins because it has a fun creek running into the ocean, lots of trees to play on with big exposed roots, and usually, a North Shore General Store food truck in the parking lot. How to get there: Take the highway past Princeville (toward Lihue) to Anini Road. You’ll go past a residential area, then end at the beach parking lot.

Hidaways Beach:

Not so hidden anymore, Hideaways, actually called Kenomene Beach is located right in Princeville, by the St. Regis. Getting to the beach can be tough, but that just means fewer other people to contend with, right? Start by hiking down a steep and rocky path…use the hand rails and ropes, and consider wearing sturdy sandals instead of flip-flops.

The best snorkeling is around the rock outcropping that separates the beach areas. Snorkel when the tide is partway in, to avoid it being too shallow. Waves during our visit were existent, but not large. However, we heard they can be quite large depending on the tide. How to get there: It’s easiest to approach Hideaways by the Pali Ke Kua condos by Hanalei Bay Resort. Enter the resort and follow the footpath to the beach. If you want to take the shorter but steeper trail, that starts at the parking lot, which is small (about 10 cars fit). This is also located right at the entrance of the condos and St. Regis, in Princeville. Tip: Go early in the morning to get parking and the beach to yourself!

Ke’e Beach:

The last beach accessible by car before the Na Poli Coast, Ke’e Beach is another good one for young kids, because of the lack of surf. This also makes it great for snorkeling. Ke’e Beach gets crowded, so hit it early to enjoy the gentle lagoon all to yourselves. The Kalalau Trail (Na Poli Coast Trail) starts here, too.

The beach is teeming with fish, and perfect for a snorkeling day. Just stay clear of the current that flows from the lagoon to the sea. Swim just outside the inner reef for the best fish sightings. You can see from the photo below that it looks rough…actually the reef shields the snorkeling area beautifully. Plus, it makes a great spot for using your bodyboards.

How to get there: Take the road to the end! That’s it. The parking lot is small here, which is another incentive to get here early. If you must park on the road, you’ll likely get a ticket to the tune of $35 or so. Many people deem it worth it. Tip: you can start at Ke’e Beach and take a four mile round trip hike along the trail to Hanakapiai Beach as well.

Queen Emma’s Bath:

While not technically a snorkeling beach, Queen Emma’s Bath is not to be missed. Kids can snorkel here, seeing rock formations and exploring the pools, and you’ll likely see sea turtles in the surf off the coast. This special geological feature is located in Princeville (follow signs as you enter this golf-resort community near the St. Regis). Park at the top of a short, downhill hike to the rocky shore, where you can explore along the coastline in either direction. Directly in front of you, after you exit the trail, will be beautiful chasms in the rock that form rocky bays for water to flow in and out of. In some seasons, these are swimmable, but not in spring or winter. Check for sea turtles here, then walk left, where you’ll find fully enclosed pools in the rock near the point. Families can swim and jump here, and snorkel in the crystal clear water. Tip: get to the parking lot early; it fills up fast and there’s no other street parking immediately adjacent.

Note: Queen Emma’s Baths have taken many lives, as noted on a sign when you enter. Never visit during the winter season, and heed all signs and warnings. We recommend never swimming in the exposed inlets at all.

Need a sure bet on the south side of the island? The inlet by the Marriott Vacation Club at Poipu Beach has great snorkeling from shore.