Amy Hagstrom - Pitstops for Kids

Moving abroad? The hidden costs of expatriation

December 21, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Not surprisingly, more families are considering the possibility of moving abroad than ever before. Becoming an expat family can be beneficial in many ways, but of course, a decision such as this takes careful consideration. After counting all the pros–a better way of life, lower living costs, and a chance to broaden your horizons–also consider a few things you may not have thought of yet.

Surprisingly, there are many hidden costs when you are considering moving abroad. The reason for this is that there are many more things to organize than if you were on a trip. Aside from the usual housing expenses, there are also several bureaucratic expenses to consider when moving abroad to include the cost of translating and notarizing them. Consider the following hidden costs before deciding that relocating as an expatriate is within your realistic budget:

Moving Money

One of the most difficult assets to move abroad is your currency. The reason for this is that many times, an expatriate needs to have enough capital with them if they plan on starting a job in a new country. Until their first paycheck comes, they have to be quite careful that they have enough to cover the rent on a new apartment and deposit, for example. The rent aside, there are many other expenses to get started including preliminary food and administrative expenses related to getting settled.

Should you decide to bring currency from your home country, it is highly recommended that you utilize money transfer companies to conduct your transactions. Once you establish a local bank account in your new locale, the process will be quite streamlined, which will enable you the potential to save a great deal of capital when you are both moving money to your new locale and when you transfer your earnings home.

Be sure to carefully shop around when consulting various money transfer companies in order to ascertain which companies would provide you with the best possible rate to move your money efficiently. There are review sites around like InternationalMoneyTransfers.org which help you digest all the information without all the legwork via detailed reviews (here’s an example review).

Moving Your Family

It is one thing to expatriate solo; however, if you are planning on bringing your family, it could be quite beneficial for you to consider what additional expense this will cost you until you receive your first paycheck. Pertaining to children, children have many expenses related to education and establishing a reliable home base for the child to be raised in.

Overall, you should follow the rule of tripling your budget when moving your family in order to adequately plan for last minute expenses that are necessary to allow your family to both move and transition effectively into a new culture. Doing so will make your life far easier in those first few months when you are getting acclimated.

If you have pets, you need to consider how much it will cost to move them as well. There are many expensive airplane tickets that involve pets. Additionally, many jurisdictions have relocation inspections for pets to undergo that can be quite costly when passing through customs. Be sure to take these considerations into account so that you do not have any unfortunate financial surprises waiting for you when you arrive to your new locale. If you take these issues into consideration, you will be better prepared for your upcoming move.

Tip: Check to see if you need an apostille service, required for all documents destined for use outside of the United States.

International Shipping

Another aspect that many individuals attempting to expatriate fail to take into consideration is the exorbitant cost of shipping your belongings from Point A to Point B. It is vital that you take this cost into consideration if you are moving to a destination that is quite far from your home country. “Unlike local moving, shipping can be something that makes or breaks your move, particularly if you are moving furniture.

In addition to shipping, be sure that you take into consideration the customs duties associated with shipping your belongings and the time that they will be held and inspected in customs. This is particularly true for larger items that you may be shipping such as cars and furniture. Failure to budget and plan for these situations is something that will cause you a great detriment in your finances. Be sure that you over budget for international shipping and customs duties to avoid any problems as you transition to your new country of choice.

Concluding Remarks

To conclude, expatriating is a very exciting time for both individuals and families. That being said, there are many unprecedented expenses that pop up here and there as any individual or family is making such a major transition in their lives.

Be sure that you consider this carefully when relocating abroad. Where many expats make critical errors is in failing to plan for the unexpected financially. Ideally, you should plan your budget for your move for at least one month in order to plan as accurately as possible.

This, combined with using money transfer companies is something that will serve you quite well as you transition to your new locale. Thus, be sure to carefully plan for your move abroad and do not discount any possible expense because odds are that you will come across many surprises as you relocate and that is surely part of the adventure of being an expat. Good luck!

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Top travel destinations of 2016

December 19, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Here at Pit Stops for Kids, we travel approximately once or twice a month, all year round. In December of every year, we take a moment to reflect on the past year’s trips, and try to select the five that stood out the most. It’s a tough decision, and always, there are multiple contenders. But we have our winners! Use the list below as inspiration as you plan your travel for the coming year!

Top travel destinations of 2016 in the US:

While we promote traveling abroad, it’s wonderful that the U.S. is such a large, diverse country. There’s plenty to see and do right here at ‘home’. Below, read about our favorite ‘finds’ in the US:

Alta, Utah:

Honestly, you can’t go wrong anywhere in the greater Salt Lake City area at any time of year. The Wasatch Mountains beckon in all seasons, with mountain biking and hiking opportunities in summer and world-class skiing in winter. We’ve previously explored Park City, Utah, which we’ve named a Best Ski Town. But the narrow slot canyons of SLC also offer amazing mountain vacations, with a decidedly different ambiance.

Alta Ski Resort is tucked away by Cottonwood Canyon, where the ritz and touristy vibe of Park City melts away, leaving a focus on the mountain terrain and cozy accommodations. At Alta, you’re more likely to run into locals than celebrities, and while the ski runs are on the challenging side, there’s a full area dedicated to beginners, and neighboring Snowbird offers additional acreage next door. We absolutely recommend staying at the Alta Lodge if it’s in the budget; this idyllic ski lodge includes most meals and a wonderful kids’ program. Plus, you can ski from the back door. One thing to note: it’s skiing only at Alta, no snowboarding allowed.

Mt. Hood, Oregon:

You know we have a ‘type’ when it comes to family travel destinations…the more outdoorsy, the better. So apologies if mountain vacations aren’t your thing, but stick with me here. Mt. Hood, Oregon is a destination that offers a little of everything: the beauty of nature is all around you, excellent and challenging hiking and mountain biking is right outside your door in summer, skiing abounds in winter. But wait, there’s more…the charming wine and cider-boasting town of Hood River is just a short drive away for foodies (our pick if you’re vacationing without the kids), and Portland is adjacent as well, ideal for those who want to include some city touring into their vacation.

Rent a cabin in Government Camp, and explore for a long weekend, like we did, or stay slightly closer to the city in Collins Lake Resort or Resort of the Mountain. Or do the ultimate: stay at historic Timberline Lodge.

Up next, top travel destinations of 2016 internationally! Click on the button below to continue.

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A Visit To St. Louis’ City Museum

December 16, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

When you hear the words “City Museum,” you might picture a building devoted to recording and educating the public about the history of a city—in this case, St. Louis, Missouri. You would be wrong. The building does contain bas-reliefs and barrels, retired safe deposit boxes and a vault—pieces of the city’s history. But you won’t find a single interpretive sign, because the City Museum is a three-story indoor-outdoor adventure playground built from salvage items.

Inside City Museum, you will find:

a three-story tree house with spiderweb netting and tunnels around the roots
hidey-holes, under-the-floor tunnels, behind-the-walls mazes, and wire mesh tube passages linking lower floors to upper floors, and from one play area to the next
a ‘circus’ with trapeze performances
a kiddie train and art area
a skateboard-like park (without skateboards)
the ‘enchanted caves’ featuring a pipe organ played by a live musician as well as a central shaft with spiral staircases to access the 5-and 10-story slides

The outdoor courtyard offers:

Two suspended airplanes, with wire-mesh cage-ladders and staircases leading to them
a castle tower with dungeon
slides
ball pits

On the roof (open weather permitting; requires an additional fee):

a Ferris wheel
more slides
a school bus protruding from the corner
a three-story dome with a cage fitted to the underside for climbing

The City Museum is an explorer’s paradise. Tunnels, hidey-holes and mazes are packed into every nook and cranny. Your kids (and you!) can spend all day exploring and not see everything.

Safety at City Museum:

About now, readers are probably wondering about safety. Rest assured, the museum is exceptionally well-designed. Yes, you will be very high off the ground. Yes, the cage-ladders are wire mesh. But they are very sturdy. The only two mishaps in our day involved head bumps at ground level; both times, staff members had ice packs on hand.

Getting the most out of your visit:

Adults: Come with an openness to adventure! Most pathways are big enough for adults (though they’re definitely a better size for kids). It’s a big place, and virtually everything is connected to everything else via tunnel or hidey hole. You can’t sit in one place and see every possible exit point, so plan to explore alongside your kids.
If you or your kids have severe issues with heights or enclosed spaces, this place might not be your cup of tea.
Lose the jewelry and wear long pants and sneakers. You’ll be on your knees a lot, and sandals will get caught on the wire mesh. In the winter, make use of the coat check to travel light.
In certain areas, even teens must have an adult on hand for entry.
Identify a meeting place in case someone gets lost.
Use the sharpies at the front desk to write your phone number on the admission wristbands, so if a child does get lost, s/he can ask an adult to call you. (Keep your phone in your pocket on vibrate. You’ll never hear it ring.)
Plan to spend as much time as you possibly can. My crew and I spent six hours there. My four-year-old had his fill after about four, but the older kids would have stayed until the museum closed.
There ARE some height restrictions. Check them out here.
There are no maps, because there is no point. The matrix is fabulously complex. It’s a place to be explored, not navigated.
Explore the website before going; it has lots of useful information.

Accessibility:

A few areas can accommodate a wheelchair/stroller, but in general, expect to be on foot. We didn’t bring our daughter, who wears knee-high orthotics; she would have had trouble getting around. During our visit, however, I did see a family with a visually impaired child navigating the outdoor matrix with the help of a touch cane.

Shopping/Food:

The gift shop offers souvenirs and clothing. Parents—one particularly useful item offered is knee pads! Those wire meshes can be rough on grownups! Also check out the Shoelace Factory for brightly-colored laces made using vintage factory machines.
Five eating establishments run the gamut from “circus fare” (popcorn, cotton candy, hot dogs) to sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and doughnuts. One even offers alcoholic beverages. Some are only open seasonally, so check the website.

Hours/Admission:

The City Museum is open Wednesday and Thursday from 9-5, Friday and Saturday 9 to midnight, and Sunday 11-5. Admission is $12 for ages 3 and up, with an extra $5 fee to visit the roof. Admission is discounted after 5 on Friday or Saturday, and annual memberships are available. The outdoor areas are open only in good weather. There’s lots to explore indoors, but if you can, plan around the weather.

Getting there:

The City Museum is at 750 North 16th Street, St. Louis, MO. Two parking lots are available adjacent to the building for $5.

My family and I visited as guests of the City Museum; our opinions are our own.

Hometown skiing at Homewood Mountain Resort

December 14, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

When families think of skiing at Tahoe, they usually think of big, expensive resorts with fancy hotels and all the latest in snow science and technology (apps that track your laps, anyone?). Tahoe skiing IS all this and more, but there are still a few Tahoe ski resorts that remain the same as when I grew up here in the ’80s…and that’s a good thing.

Homewood Mountain Resort is the very first Tahoe ski resort I ever skied as a child, and I remember the ‘wow factor’ well: that first chair up Homewood’s face, you feel like you’re flying. Behind you, the lake is a huge blue expanse that seems to stretch forever, and before you is a black diamond run that goes all the way (practically) to the water.

I’m happy to report that skiing at Homewood again last spring, I felt the exact same way, years later. What’s more, the comfortable and rustic lodge is still the same, sitting right on the edge of Highway 89 on the west side of the lake shore, and the lifts are still (for the most part) slow doubles and triples that allow for ample family time on the way up.

With four major lifts (plus a beginner poma and magic carpet), Homewood is big enough for families to explore but still manageable for those with tweens and teens who want to ski on their own, without mom and dad. We loved the Old Homewood Express area best, which leads you to the side of Ellis Peak with plenty of long groomers and a terrain park for those who want it.

Note: at the top of Old Homewood Express, you might spy the Homewood cat skiing ‘ride’…new as of the 2015-16 season, Homewood now offers cat skiing adventures for skiers and riders from intermediate level and up. Learn more!

We also did quite a few laps on Ellis chair, so we could tackle the expert terrain on the sides of this little canyon, plus traverse to a wonderful spot called ‘Hobbit Land’ and even further to a wide bowl that drops skiers down to the top of the Quail Chair. We found that in late spring, there was a bit of hiking and skating to get ourselves back out of the bowl, so be ready for that in big powder or wet powder, like we had, but otherwise, there’s less hiking and traversing here than at most resorts, when accessing off-piste terrain.

At Homewood, it still feels like a local mountain. There are not big hotels at the base (though there are certainly accommodations), and this part of the west side of the lake is fairly unpopulated. We stayed nearby a year ago at a HomeAway rental up on the hillside just a mile from Homewood, and really loved the relative isolation. But most skiers here seem to be local or long-term visitors, which suits us just fine. The vibe is very casual and friendly, and you get the impression that at Homewood, it’s still all about the skiing. Then there’s the views: at Homewood, there is not a spot on the mountain where you DON’T have an amazing view of Lake Tahoe. It’s truly breathtaking.

There’s plenty for beginners as well, but it’s worth noting that the learning area is at the very base of the mountain. This is normal of course, but a shame in this case, because those skiers and riders miss out on the amazing views.

Dining options:

For dining, there’s a nice overlook bar and grill just above the front face, with, of course, amazing views, and there are several food options at the base. Mostly though, you’ll see plenty of sack lunches here, which, again, reminds me of childhood and reminds my kids of our days on our local mountain at home. In fact, my 11-year-old said, “HOMEwood is like ‘at home’. It’s like they named it that on purpose.” Well said!

Lift tickets:

Day passes are often discounted for one reason or another. Definitely buy online before your visit to save. Prices during our visit were around $45 for adults on weekdays, and far less for kids. It’s a very affordable mountain. If you have a season pass to another mountain, check to see if there is a partnership or discount. Ditto for kids in ski racing programs.

Directions:

From Tahoe City, drive south on Highway 89 to Homewood. From the south shore, you’ll take Hwy 89 north. Pretty simple!

We experienced Homewood as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. All opinions are our own.

Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort: what not to miss with kids

December 12, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Twenty minutes before lifts stopped turning on a perfect Whistler ski trip, we were still finding fresh powder. Whistler Blackcomb is just that big. Everywhere we skied at Whistler Blackcomb, the kids discovered new routes, new glades, and new jumps. After spending two full ski days exploring the duel mountains, we could only say we’d had a ‘sampler’ of what this resort offers to families.

Whether you have an ideal 3-4 ski days at Whistler Blackcomb, or just a short few like we did, Pit Stops for Kids is happy to share our top sections of the mountain for families, including runs, lifts, lodges, and dining.

Where to ski or snowboard on a Whistler ski trip:

The best thing about Whistler Blackcomb’s mountain layout is the fact that no matter where you are on either of the mountains, from peak to base, beginner (green), intermediate (blue), and advanced (black) runs are available. This means families can ride the lifts together even if they’re of different ability levels, and even young kids and novice skiers and riders can experience the whole resort. Our favorite sections of the two peaks for kids (of any level):

1. Jersey Cream area of Blackcomb: This area is accessed by the Solar Express lift (from Wizard Express at the base), and provides expert to beginner runs situated high enough on the mountain to be challenging but just below the tree-line (to keep out of the wind). We spent the majority of our time here, alternating between the double-black-diamond Jersey Cream Bowl and its many side runs (most of which are intermediate). The Green Line (beginner) offers a fun alternative to those not so sure about moguls and steeps. For those wanting to go higher up, the Glacier Express loads adjacent to Jersey Cream.

2. Whistler Family Zone: Located on Whistler Peak directly across from Blackcomb after off-loading from the Peak 2 Peak Gondola (or off the Whistler Village Gondola), this Family Zone is a relaxing place to try out new skills without fear of fast skiers or riders nearby. Marked by bright green flags, the Family Zone offers groomed slopes and is placed next to one of Whistler Blackcomb’s many Nintendo Terrain Parks. It’s easy for kids to dip in and out of the terrain park (every feature is clearly marked as S (small), M (medium) or L (large) and still meet up with non-jumping family members. If your kids like easy glided skiing or riding, look for the large wooden arch marking the entrance to a not-so-steep tree glade filled with powder and trails (when snow levels permit).

3. Blackcomb lower mountain: Younger kids will like the numerous intermediate runs off the Wizard Express (and parents will like that the Blackcomb lower mountain gets less traffic than the Whistler lower mountain). When they’re ready, take intermediate and beginner kids up Solar Express for new terrain, including another Nintendo Terrain Park. (Look for the magic ‘castle’ play area nearby…though we had trouble finding it in deep snow, even with signage!)

Tip: If you’re new to the mountain, a great way to orient yourself is to ride to the top of Blackcomb and take the Green Line (beginner) all the way down. This cat-track trail, marked ‘Easiest Way Down’, traverses the entirety of Blackcomb while winding slowly down. Parents can get a feel for the mountain while kids get their ‘feet wet’. Plus, we clocked it: it’s a 30 minute run!

Where to eat and rest:

Whistler Blackcomb is very big, which means that traversing to your favorite pit stop could take a while, depending upon where you are on the mountain. Families will waste time getting from Point A to Point B if they’re not careful. The good news is, there are dining options on both mountains, of course. Our best advice: no matter where you eat, try to avoid the two largest lodges, Roundhouse and Rendezvous, during peak lunch hours (12-1pm).

1. Glacier Lodge: Located at the base of Jersey Cream and Glacier lifts, this smaller lodge is just enough off the beaten path to be an ideal lunch spot for families. (Also recommended is Crystal Lodge, but it’s so far off the main lifts it may take too much time to get to.)

2. Rendezvous Lodge: As long as you avoid the peak lunch hour, Rendezvous is a good bet (and easy to get to from either Whistler–take the Peak 2 Peak–or Blackcomb). Even during the busy holiday season, we didn’t have trouble finding a table or getting through the cafeteria-style dining area. Tip: even adults can order kid meals, which are a great value at $8.99 and include an entree, two snacks (all healthy options), a piece of fruit, and a drink. If the kids finish eating before you do, let them go downstairs to the Nintendo gaming area, where they can play the latest Wii and Nintendo DS 3D games for free!

3. Try to avoid Whistler Village at lunch, as this congested area will delay your return to the slopes. The exception: if you’re staying at a ski-in-ski-out hotel. During our stay at the Fairmont Chateau, we were able to ski down to the hotel, eat a healthy meal in our room, and be back on the hill within 45 minutes. It was worth returning to the base to skip the lunchtime crowds (and hassle).

Riding the Peak 2 Peak:

At some point, you’ll want to cross between Whistler Peak and Blackcomb Peak, and while you can return to the Whistler Village and ride the Excalibur Gondola to the Blackcomb side, you’ll have far more fun riding the Peak 2 Peak. Located between the Rendezvous and Roundhouse lodges, the Peak 2 Peak takes about 20 minutes to ride. This is a great time to adjust clothing and gloves, eat a snack, or simply warm up! The views are jaw-dropping (as is the height!). Your lift ticket includes the Peak 2 Peak, so take advantage of it!

Don’t be surprised if you experience less than 30 percent of Whistler Blackcomb in one day, and don’t be afraid to ride lifts all the way to the peaks (when open). There will be an easy way down option every time!

As I disclose whenever applicable, my family and I experienced Whistler Blackcomb as guests of the resort. While we appreciated this opportunity to share tips and advice with other traveling families, it not come with the expectation of a positive review.

Florence Italy at Christmas

December 7, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Last holiday season, we made a last minute decision to add Florence, Italy to our European family vacation. We arrived in Florence on December 24, Christmas Eve, and left December 27. While planning, I worried that perhaps, spending Christmas in Florence wouldn’t feel festive…after all, their seasonal Christmas markets close before Christmas Day. However, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Florence Italy at Christmas is beautiful! Scroll down for a few tips and plenty of images.

Florence Italy at Christmas:

We came to Florence from Paris, where the Christmas markets were still in full swing. However, Florence definitely beats out the City of Lights in holidays light displays. Every narrow street of historic Florence featured strings of lights. Each street was different.

Florence also has many more Christmas trees than Paris. We found this to be true throughout Italy as opposed to France. Italy, and Florence in particular, also has wonderful nativity scenes.
While in Florence for Christmas, look for impromptu Christmas carnivals in various piazzas, including cheap carnival games, street performers, carrousels, and outdoor ice skating rinks.

On Christmas Day, expect for museums to be closed. Take walking tours instead, or go to a church service.
Try to make reservations for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day meals ahead of time. Some restaurants will close. For those that remain open, expect them to be busy for Christmas lunch and closed for the evening. Some restaurants will have set menus. Stock up on a few basics at the grocery store so you can make a simple Christmas evening meal in your apartment rental, if that’s an option for you.

Look for elaborate Nativity scenes in Florence, both outside the Duomo and in area churches. It’s ok to step inside churches to see their nativity scenes, provided you don’t go during service hours.
Step inside artisan meat and cheese shops and you’ll most likely find generous tasting offerings. We tasted so much cheese, it was a snack!

Buy a panettone at a grocery store. This traditional Italian holiday bread is similar to a coffee cake, and we picked one up for under €5. We liked it so much, we bought another in Rome!
If you want to ice skate at the outdoor rinks, the ice is free, but skate rentals are around €5 per person. For this price, you usually get about 30 minutes. This was enough time for us. The rink we found was open Christmas Day.

Have you been to Florence at Christmas? What was your favorite sight to see?

Tips to keep your family safe while traveling

December 1, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Traveling the world is a great way to introduce your family to different cultures while having a fun time abroad. While in our experience, travel tends to be safer than your average day in your own hometown, every trip raises the possibility of risk. Before you leave home, study the following three tips to keep your family safe as you travel the world.

Make a Copy of Your Passport

Losing your passport can make traveling between countries difficult. If you don’t have your passport, you may not be able to re-enter the United States. Making a copy of your passport will enable you to replace it more easily.

Make two copies of your passport. Give one to a person you trust to keep it safe. Keep the other copy with you while you travel. You can email a copy of the passport to yourself so that you can access the information when needed.

If you plan to email the copy, make sure the places you visit have email access and printers. If those places do not, then you should carry a printed copy.

Learn About Possible Travel Advisories

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) maintains a list of travel advisories that will help you avoid unsafe countries. If a country has a travel alert or warning, then you should read about potential hazards that could affect your trip.

The DOS divides travel advisories into two groups: warnings and alerts. Warnings usually refer to long-term problems such as civil wars, frequent terrorist attacks, and unstable governments. Some of the warnings stay in place for years, so you should think carefully before visiting these countries.

Travel alerts usually refer to short-term events such as elections, elevated risks of terrorist attacks, and outbreaks of viruses such as H1N1. Travel alerts aren’t as serious as warnings, but you should still learn about the reasons for the alerts and plan to keep yourself safe. You may want to delay your trip until the threats have passed.

Get a MedjetAssist Membership

No amount of preparation can protect you from unforeseen medical issues. You never know when a simple slip and fall could break one of your limbs or an unknown medical condition will affect your health.

Unfortunately, many countries do not have reliable health care services that you would expect to receive in the United States. Some countries don’t have the capital to invest in high-tech medical facilities. Some rural locations are so far from large cities, which can delay medical assistance.

You can keep yourself safe during a medical emergency by becoming a MedjetAssist member. MedjetAssist arranges air medical transportation for its members when they are hospitalized. You can’t predict what will happen while you travel the world, but you can prepare for unexpected events.

While avoiding countries or regions with civil unrest or threats of terrorism is best when you’re considering international travel, you should still prepare for unexpected situations you may encounter during your travels. As long as you follow the tips outlined above, you can help your family to have a safe and enjoyable time abroad.

Image via Flickr by seantoyer

Guide to Paris Christmas markets

November 30, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

One of our favorite memories of a Paris Christmas was touring the many Paris Christmas markets across the city. Some Christmas markets pop up fairly spontaneously from year to year, but there are a few staples you’ll find to be consistent. Here’s where to go to find Paris Christmas markets, plus tips for best enjoyment of these seasonal wonders.

Top Paris Christmas markets:

The biggies each year are as follows (plus how to get there):

The Concorde area: this largest Christmas market is located at the Concorde, right in the shadow of the seasonal ferris wheel (built for the World’s Fair). It’s at the end of the famous Champs- Élysées, so if you’re already walking down this to see the holiday lights and decor, you’ll end up here.
Under the Eiffel Tower: this was our favorite Christmas market, as it wasn’t too big and wasn’t too small. And the ambiance is amazing under the tower, especially when it sparkles on the hour at night. We visited this market before and after going to the top of the tower.
In the Montmartre area: this market is a bit more ‘working class’, with some touristy stuff tossed in, located under the shadow of Sacre Coeur. Take the metro to the Chateau Rogue stop, or tack this visit on to a tour of Sacre Coeur. You can take the tram up the hill, too.

Tips for making the most of the Paris Christmas markets:

Plan on making a meal of it: We purposely planned our mealtimes around Christmas markets. This is a cheap and delicious way to eat in Paris during the holiday season. At every Christmas market, we could find the staples: crepes, Belgian waffles, baguettes toasted with melted cheese, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and all sorts of candies and nuts.
Look for smaller markets: We found a fun yet small Christmas market across the Seine from Notre Dame, by the Latin Quarter. It was only a dozen or so huts, but Santa Claus was there without a line, and the vendors were among the most friendly.

Bring cash: at most huts, you’ll need to pay in cash. Give kids coins to spend on their own.
Shop for Christmasy souvenirs: During our Christmas visit, we decided to play a game of ‘secret Santa’ within our family. Each family member bought little trinkets and treats at Christmas markets for another member of the family. We had a lot of fun.

Look for ice skating rinks: Many Christmas markets include small ice skating rinks. Below the Eiffel Tower, the rink was actually a loop, similar to a track, which skaters used as though on a trail. If you combine an Eiffel Tower Christmas market trip with a ride up the tower, stop and skate at the 1st floor landing ON the tower. It’s free!
Try the vin chaud: This mulled wine may not be made with the highest quality wine, but it’s piping hot and seasoned nicely. For kids, the chocolat chaud is the way to go.
Look for public restrooms: Restrooms are in short supply in Paris, but we always found one at major Christmas markets.
Almost all Paris Christmas markets open the third week of November and close January 1. Hours are generally noon to 10 pm.

What is your favorite Paris Christmas market?

Family ski wear checklist: What you need and which brands are best

November 25, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

Ski season is upon us, and if you’re a skiing family, you’re busy cataloguing your gear and checking to see what fits each family member. If you don’t ski often, you may not be outfitted yet at all. If you only ski once a year or so, we highly recommend using a ski wear rental service like Get Outfitted (see our full review), but if you plan to go several times this winter, it’s worth investing in the basics. In this post, I’m not going to list exact items, since that can change in a season or two. Instead, I’ll list quality brands you can trust for each category. Here’s what everyone in the family needs:

Family ski wear checklist

Ski pants:

Each family member’s ski pants should be waterproof (of course), and ideally, they should grow with your kid. To that end, we love Obermeyer’s ‘I-Grow’ system, which integrates cuffs and hems that are designed to be taken in and then let out to give you more life out of your pants. Young kids will appreciate ski ‘bib’ style pants, which do a great job of keeping cold and snow out, especially if they may spend a significant amount of time on the snow, and older kids will like the ‘cool factor’ of pants with suspenders or strap-free waistlines. Make sure your kid’s ski pants come down over his or her boots, with an inner lining to keep out slush. No matter which style you prefer, these are the brands we love best, based on affordability, value, and quality:

Obermeyer: You won’t lose your kid in the Volt Pant
Columbia: The Bugaboo pant is the best value out there
Patagonia: The Snowshot Freeride is pricy, but will last through several teens

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Ski jackets:

Picking the right ski jacket for your kid is a bit more complex than picking a pair of pants. Style comes into play even more, and since it’s nice to try to get at least two seasons out of a jacket, be sure to go with the style your child prefers. You can opt for a two-part jacket that features an inner fleece layer that zips out for solo use and an outer waterproof shell, or you can get an all-in-one. If you’re only getting one jacket, be sure it’s a waterproof shell with some insulation; otherwise, I prefer to outfit my kids with a ‘puffy’, which is what we call a down jacket or sweater layer, covered with a thin but waterproof shell. That way, they can go with just the puffy on cold but dry days, and have the shell to go over on wet days. If you have advanced extreme skiers or riders, I suggest getting a jacket with a built-in Recco avalanche beacon system. You’ll see the Recco logo displayed on these jackets, which are, as you might guess, more expensive.

Favorite brands for puffy jackets and shells:

Columbia: Try the Powder Lite Puffer
Patagonia: The Patagonia Down Sweater is hard to beat
Helly Hansen: Try the Arctic Puffer for young kids
Craghoppers: The CompressLite packs down to almost nothing

Favorite all-in-ones or two-part system jackets:

Columbia: The Snowcation is a great value
High Sierra: The Frankie is fleece-lined
Craghoppers: We love the NatGeo Oliver Pro shell for our teens, paired with the Liston Half Zip
Free Country: The boys’ Helium is extra warm

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Base layers:

Base layers are so crucial, and so many people neglect to get high quality Merino wool or synthetic base layers! They can get expensive, but in our experience, good base layers will last through a few seasons for each kid, and can be passed down. Look for wool, as it wicks away moisture from the body, but most importantly, find a brand and material that your kids can tolerate. Some kids don’t like the feel of wool. Here’s where to shop:

Hot Chilis: The La Montana is a simple base pant that’s soft and stretchy
REI: You can’t go wrong with their mid-weight offering
L.L. Bean: Can’t beat their Wicked Warm for the value
PolarMax: Our kids have worn PolarMax for years

Gloves or mittens:

This is another ski wear category that centers around personal preference. I love mittens, as they keep my hands warmer (since your fingers are together and share body heat). My kids like gloves. Whichever you prefer, think QUALITY when it comes to hand protection. The last thing you want are soggy gloves. You can always buy a back up pair on the cheap, just in case. Best brands:

Head: Their kids’ ski mittens are colorful…you won’t lose them
Spyder: Try the Mini Cubbies
Outdoor Research: We like Revolution gloves for high quality for a great price for teens
Whatever Costco is selling (we’ve always found them to be good quality!)

Socks:

This is another highly important category…we always want to make sure feet stay dry and toasty warm! Sorry to be repetitive, but go with wool, folks. Make sure you select a ski/snowboard dedicated sock, which will come up to the knee. Otherwise, your kid will be complaining about pain in their shins in no time. Top sock brands for ski days:

Darn Tough Vermont: Go for the Over-the-Calf Junior
Smart Wool: My kids think the Racer Socks look cool
Fox River: The Okemo is stylish for teens

Goggles:

Don’t forget goggles! This is a category of gear that can vary greatly in terms of both quality and price. For newbies to the sport, no need to spend a lot of money for top-of-the-line goggles. Instead, look for used gear at your local ski swap or ski store. But if you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder, you’ll definitely notice a difference wearing quality goggles. What we recommend:

Native Eyewear Upslope: Native goggles have a great anti-fog coating, which really makes a difference in most weather conditions. The lenses also have multi-mirror, hydrophobic, and oleophobic coatings to repel oils and water. The Upslope works well for women because they fit a smaller face.
Native Eyewear Backbowl: The Backbowl has all the same features as above, with a wider frame and wider field of vision. I love the mirror lenses…they just look so cool! These are perfect for the men in your family.
K2 Captura: These women’s goggles are a good mid-price option, with spherical lenses and a smaller frame.
Smith Optics Sidekick: Great for kids, these goggles are a solid choice that won’t set you back!

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Ok, you’re outfitted! All you need now are your ski rentals, a helmet, and a face mask or bandana in case of wind and cold! Have a great ski season!

Luxury ski lodging: Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe review

November 21, 2016 By Amy Hagstrom

We’ve skied Northstar many times, each time opting for different accommodations. We’ve stayed in home rentals, in a condo at the Village at Northstar, and in a Northstar townhouse. Every time we visit, however, we look at the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, perched at mid-mountain like an elegant fortress, with longing.

Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe review:

We’ve enjoyed meals at the Ritz Carlton (anyone can stop in mid-ski day for lunch at Backyard BBQ or Manzanita), but last spring, we stayed overnight for the first time. During our two-night stay, we attempted to do it all: we checked out all the amenities, ate on-site, had a treatment in the spa, swam in the pools, and, of course, skied.

What you can expect from a Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe stay:

In a word: ambiance. When you stay at the Ritz, you will be transported to a beautiful world of roaring fireplaces, elegant woodwork, charming fire pits with comfy couches and s’mores, views of towering pines and ski slopes…you’ll be fully in the mountain retreat atmosphere.

You can also expect convenience and luxury. When you arrive, the valet will whisk all your things away immediately, transporting them all to your room without your lifting a finger. Ditto for your skis, boots, and gear. When you’re ready to ski, the ski concierge desk will have your boots ready, and the team outside at the ‘ski beach’ will have your skis awaiting you. When you return from your ski day, you’ll be greeted and your gear will be taken from you immediately. If you need lessons for the kids, their instructors will pick them up right at the Ritz, and you can enroll them in Ritz Kids as well (if you need full day care).

Everywhere you go, you’ll be treated with the best in guest service. My family and I couldn’t sit down at the pool or walk through the Living Room (lobby area) without someone asking after us, inquiring about our day, or offering their help. Once you check-in, there’s no need for your car…you can take the Highlands gondola directly from the Ritz to the Village at Northstar, and there are several dining options and gear stores right on property.

A few of our favorite winter amenities:

The ski concierge service: this was such a treat. Not having to lug skis or boots anywhere felt amazing. The Ritz is directly at mid-mountain by the Big Easy chair, so it’s completely ski-in, ski-out. Read our review of Northstar California.

Marsh-ology: Every day at 4:30 pm, a Ritz Carlton chef comes out on the deck by the fire pits overlooking the ski slopes and assists kids (and adults) in the art of the perfect s’more. House-made marshmallows are handed out with roasting sticks, and kids create their own treats.

Spa: As you can imagine, the spa is fantastic. If you book a treatment, be sure to go early to enjoy the steam room or sauna; there’s an entire wet spa room, which also has an indoor hot tub. Afterward, sit by the private outdoor pool (for spa guests only) in nice weather. In the relaxation room, you’ll find refreshing fruit-infused water, tea, and nuts and dried fruits.

Swimming pool: One outdoor pool and two hot tubs are located right next to the snow. The atmosphere is wonderful. There are also saunas near the exercise facility, and a separate pool for spa guests. There’s poolside service out on the deck.

Arcade: Our tween loved the arcade. Frankly, I was surprised to even find an arcade at the Ritz Carlton (doesn’t seem too ritzy to me) but he ended up spending significant time there. And it grew on me when I saw that they offer free popcorn and have an area with comfy chairs for movie-watching.

What will not be included in your room rate:

If you stay at luxury hotels, you know the drill: sometimes, a higher room rate means less comes included. This is true at the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, too. Valet parking is required, and will cost $39/night. There’s simply no other place to park on this part of the mountain, and the upside is that no one has to look at a big sprawling parking lot.

Valet parking is not unusual at a luxury hotel, but there’s also a resort fee of $30/night, which is a little harder to swallow. This covers in-room WiFi, which is also commonly missing in luxury hotels, but still. It’s frustrating. Why don’t we all live in a world of free hotel WiFi yet?

Our room was very comfortable and nicely appointed, but I do wish it included a mini-fridge in addition (or instead?) of an honor bar. I think all families want a mini-fridge at any hotel.

Dining at Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe:

So since you don’t have a mini fridge for storing food, what and where will you eat? You won’t be left wanting. Cafe Blue serves quick-service breakfast items and some lunch things, and the Backyard BBQ serves a causal (though expensive) lunch and apres ski. Our game plan: we ate one meal at Manzanita (more on that below), and divided the rest of our meals between the light fare at The Living Room, which has craft cocktails, appetizers, soups and salads, and a few specialties, and the village (just a gondola ride away).

Manzanita is Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe’s signature dining experience, and well worth booking for at least one meal. Families can eat out on the deck at lunch, or in the beautiful dining room at lunch or dinner. We had impeccable service from our server Natasha last spring, which really made our meal. Our tween loved her lessons in napkin folding, and we loved the attention she gave our table. Not only were we well-taken care of, but the appetizers especially were amazing. Try the Brussel sprouts if they’re still on the (ever-changing) menu. As noted above, there are also multiple dining options just a gondola ride away at the Village at Northstar. We love the pizza and the sushi options there.

Because I take issue with paying a lot for breakfast when all my kids want is cereal, we still brought cereal bars and oatmeal to make in our room, even without a fridge. I realize this practice doesn’t jive with the luxury hotel experience, but families should always do what works for them. Quick, easy breakfasts in our room is our thing. There’s a coffee maker and coffee service, so it was easy to prepare.

Room rates:

Rates are up there at the Ritz Carlton, of course, and whether the cost will be worth it to your family will depend on how important the experience of a stay is to you…remember, it’s all about the ambiance. Keep in mind that rates will be lower in the shoulder seasons: try a late spring stay like we had, when you can still ski but also enjoy some sunshine, or try a fall visit. During our stay, rates went as low as $249 to an average around $500/night. It’s worth noting that families can upgrade to Club Level, which grants them access to five food presentations per day. If you plan to eat many meals on-site, this upgrade may pay for itself.

Directions:

The Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe is located at Northstar California ski resort on the north shore of Lake Tahoe. Follow directional signs from the Northstar entrance, or input this address to a GPS system: 13031 Ritz-Carlton Highlands Court, Truckee CA.

Disclosure: We spent two nights at Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. All opinions are our own.

Photo credit: Amy Whitley and Ritz Carlton