Amy Hagstrom - Pitstops for Kids

Portland with Kids: Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel

June 17, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

If you’re headed to Portland with kids, location is key: you want to be near the Willamette River and within easy walking distance of downtown and the MAX. The Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel puts families in the heart of the city, affords kids fun views of the goings-on along the river, and provides parents with a few perks of their own.

RiverPlace is a Kimpton hotel, with Kimpton amenities.

If you’re familiar with the Kimpton brand, you know what this means: hosted wine hours, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate for the kids, a welcome mat rolled out for your family dog, and a staff that goes above and beyond. When we arrived 30 minutes past ‘wine hour’ on our most recent visit, the front desk staff poured us glasses to take up to our room. Nice touch!

Every time we come to RiverPlace, they have something fun going on. This summer beginning in June, they offer s’mores on their second-floor courtyard overlooking the Willamette. All we needed to do was let the front desk know when we were ready for the fire to be lit in the fire pit.

The first time I visited RiverPlace as a Kimpton hotel, it didn’t yet sport the trademarked Kimpton style and originality to its decor. As of early summer 2015, it absolutely does, and I felt right at home as a Kimpton Karma Rewards member (sign up, you get a $10 Raid the Mini-Bar credit!). The decor in RiverPlace that isn’t sporting a trendy ‘Kimpton’ look is very clean, not-quite minimalist, and warm, with stone, wood, and soft touches.

Location is key.

RiverPlace is located right off Naito Parkway south of popular Tom McCall Park (the greenway that runs along the river). Families can sit on the RiverPlace rocking chairs on the porch overlooking the Willamette, walk directly from the hotel along the greenway to the Portland Spirit river cruise, the Portland Saturday Market, or the downtown Pioneer Square area.

We love that we can let the kids burn off energy before dinner along the river walk, or explore the many boats along the small wharf jutting out from the RiverPlace Esplanade. Kids are happily distracted watching the crew teams rowing along the water. Along the esplanade are several good dining options for families, especially coffee shops and bakeries.

Room options:

We recommend booking a one-bedroom suite, which easily sleeps a family of five (when we stayed in one of these rooms, we had a king bed for the parents in the bedroom, a pull-out sofa double, plus a rollaway). Along with all this room, you also get a full kitchen and dining area, complete with all the pots, pans, and utensils you’ll need to prepare meals in.

The suites have a separate entrance, which means you can return to your room directly from the river walk, but are right next door to the rest of the RiverPlace, making it easy to settle in the lobby for the complimentary wine hour and coffee or hot chocolate in the mornings.

The absolute best thing about the RiverPlace suites, however, are the views. Our river-front room boasted huge windows in the living room area (with fireplace) and dining area overlooking the Willamette, plus a balcony with seating. The RiverPlace thoughtfully includes a pair of binoculars to use during your stay, which kids can put to use spotting eagles, boats, and more.

Other room options include standard king or two queen rooms in the hotel proper. These rooms have been recently remodeled with those gorgeous Kimpton touches, such as elegant headboards, new patterns for the duvets, and lovely artwork. Honestly, even without the space of the suites, we feel refreshed every time we stay in these rooms.

Downside:

There’s only one downside to the RiverPlace from my family’s point-of-view: RiverPlace does not have a pool in the hotel. However, this is true of many city hotels, so as long as families are prepared ahead of time, it shouldn’t be too big of an impact on the stay.

Kimpton Tips:

Before staying at any Kimpton hotel, by all means, join the Kimpton Loyalty Program. This program is free and easy to sign up for, and gives members perks such as the aforementioned $10 ‘raid the mini-bar’ credit and free wifi in rooms. I used both on my last visit and was very glad to grab a free Luna bar and Nantucket Nectars orange juice before heading out for the day…without paying mini bar prices.

Always, and I mean always, check the RiverPlace (or any Kimpton hotel) website for specials and deals. During our stay in June, we eyed a Northwest Residents package we’ll be sure to return for!

Date last visited: June 2015

Distance from the interstate: 1 minute from 405/I-5.

Room rates: RiverPlace rooms start at $199 for standard rooms. One-bedroom suites like the one we experienced start around $250.

Directions: RiverPlace is located at 1510 SW Harbor Way in Portland, and is easy to find. Valet parking makes arriving even easier.

As I disclose whenever applicable, I stayed at RiverPlace with a media rate, for the purpose of review.

Weekend Guide to the CA Redwoods

June 15, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

We’re a family who loves spending our vacation days in the wilderness, and few places are as wild and beautiful as the Northern California and Southern Oregon Redwoods. However, we prefer hiking into isolated backcountry sites to campgrounds, and while the Redwoods feature some of the most stunning scenery I’ve seen, the trails are short in length, without ample backpacking options.

Because of this technicality, we passed over this region far too long. At the end of May, we decided to rethink the Redwoods, creating an itinerary for ourselves that included multiple short day hikes sandwiched by a fun cabin stay at the Crescent City/Redwoods KOA.The Redwood groves in this area pocket coastal forests between Eureka, California and Brookings, Oregon. If they had a ‘Redwood capital’, it would be Crescent City, California, which can be accessed either from the coast along Highway 101 (from north or south) or via the scenic Redwoods Highway (Hwy 199) from I-5 in Southern Oregon.

Either route will drop your family into increasingly beautiful scenery. Along less than 20 miles of coastline, the Rogue, Smith, and Chetco rivers all flow into the ocean, all of which feed Redwood groves with nutrient rich flood waters. The forests here are damp, with a ground cover of ferns and moss and nurse logs that invite kids to explore and parents to breathe deep and feel rejuvenated.

We started feeling the effects of the magical Redwoods as we drove down Highway 101 past Gold Beach and Brookings, watching the Pacific crash from the car windows. For our introductory hike in the Redwoods, we detoured to drive six miles inland up the Chetco river to Alfred Loeb State Park to try the Redwood Nature Trail. We hiked several looped miles, gaping at the tall trees, pointing out banana slugs and salamanders, and climbing over root systems, then piled back in the car to check out our digs for the next two days: a deluxe cabin at the Crescent City/Redwoods KOA.

As a family who prefers isolation to crowds, we’ve been unsure about KOAs in the past…until we started trying them in earnest a year ago. What we discovered: KOAs have changed since I was a kid. Each location is different, but most now offer a combination of resort amenities paired with natural offerings like pretty campsites and rustic lodging that can be perfect as a ‘base camp’ for an outdoor-focused trip.

The Crescent City/Redwoods KOA is situated on a grassy field and Redwood grove (yes, really!) just a few miles from the hikes we’d planned. The RV spots and check-in area are in the open field, but drive down the narrow dirt roads that weave among the Redwood grove, and you’ll find lovely tent camping sites and rustic cabins that are on par for beauty with the best state park campgrounds in the area.

We stayed in a deluxe cabin, which upgraded us from the standard amenities of the rustic cabins (electricity and heaters) to include a full bathroom with shower and a kitchenette (with microwave, sink, mini fridge and coffee maker). The main room included a queen bed, and a cozy annex housed a built-in bunk bed. We also had a TV (not necessary) and WIFI (very convenient for writing down thoughts for this review!). Our little patio included an outdoor fire pit and picnic table, plus covered porch.

Unlike the standard cabins, deluxe cabins are located in the RV loop, which made me long to be tucked away in the woods. However, the kids liked being steps away from the bike rentals and game room (with ping pong and fusbol), and we had a nice field to look out over. We spent our first night settling into our cabin and grilling dinner, then the subsequent day hiking additional Redwood trails, playing in the ocean, and walking along the Smith River. Every trailhead and beach was within 25 minutes of the KOA. Every time we returned to the campground, the kids scattered to play ping pong, explore the wooded loop, where they climbed on nurse logs and Redwood stumps, and visit the goats and chickens in the KOA petting zoo.

Redwoods Hikes:

Redwood Nature Trail: This trail is actually a trail network of multiple loops that wind upslope of the Chetco River. You see multiple redwoods and other pines, as well as a clear, cold creek. Be sure to pay attention to which turns you take in order to find your way back to the start, as it’s not as well marked as we would like. Directions: from Highway 101, turn east at Constitution Way to North Bank Chetco Road. Go 7.5 miles to Alfred Loeb State Park. The trailhead is half a mile past the entrance.
Simpson Reed Grove Trail: One of the most stunning trails through old growth redwoods, this trail is less than one mile and is easy to follow and well-marked. There’s an extra loop, the Peterson Memorial Grove, that extends the hike if desired. Also nearby is Stout Grove, an even shorter trail with breathtaking views. Directions: from Highway 199 (Redwood Highway), find the trailhead just before Jedediah Smith State Park, right off 199.

Boy Scout Tree Trail: One of the longer hikes in the area, the Boy Scout trail is 2.8 miles. It passes through the Valley of the Giants to conclude at the Boy Scout Tree and Fern Falls. If you have a full day to explore one trail, this is the one. Directions: From Highway 101 South, take Elk Valley Road to Howland Road to the trailhead. The drive is 25 minutes from the Crescent City/Redwoods KOA.

Nearby beaches:

Head just a few miles north from the KOA on Highway 101, and you’ll be in Oregon. Our favorite beaches include:

Harris Beach State Park: this beach is characterized by plenty of beach access and sandy space with large rock formations. There are picnic areas as well. Find it right off Highway 101 north of Brookings, Oregon.
Whaleshead Beach: Whaleshead is just a bit further north of Harris Beach, with parking on the east side of the highway and a pedestrian tunnel to the beach. Kids love the creek that runs into the ocean and lots of rock formations.

River Access worth exploring:

Head up Highway 199 just past Jedediah Smith State Park, and swim (in summer) in the Smith River. Families will find swimming holes directly off the road at pull-outs. The Chetco River also offers great wading and swimming at Alfred Loeb State Park east of Brookings. Look for the day use area at the campground.

No matter what you do in the Northern California and Southern Oregon Redwoods, plan to stay at least 2-3 days to get a feel for this region.

Win a KOA stay!

There are KOA campgrounds all over the US, and they all differ in personality, setting, and amenities, which makes each stay actually more interesting and adventurous. Read more stories of KOA stays. Want to have your own KOA adventure? Enter to win a stay at Trekaroo!

Disclosure: This post was written in partnership with KOA. All activities were planned by us, and all opinions are our own.

How to use IHG Rewards Club points this summer

June 11, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

This post brought to you by IHG Rewards Club. The content and opinions expressed below are that of Pit Stops for Kids.

Summer is the busiest travel season of the year for families. But if you travel year-round, as we do, it’s also the season to build up hotel reward points!

Think you don’t travel ‘year-round’? Do you travel with your children for sports tournaments or dance competitions? Do you visit grandparents or other family members for the holidays? Do you take spring break getaways or weekend escapes? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of the above, you are indeed year-round travelers. And year-round travelers need to take advantage of hotel reward point programs like shareforever.ihg.comIHG Rewards Club.

How IHG Rewards Club works:

First, you need to sign up. It’s free and easy. After signing up, you’ll earn reward points for every stay. Why should you focus on earning reward points this summer? Because of IHG’s Share Forever Rewards program:

Earn 500 Points for your next IHG hotel stay from May 1, 2015 – September 2, 2015
Earn another 500 points for that same hotel stay to share with another member! (Or keep the points for yourself!)
Earn from 68,500 to 115,500 “Share Forever” bonus points plus a maximum 58,500 bonus points to share, or keep.

After a summer of building up points before the September deadline, you’ll have a nice stockpile to use for fall and winter travel plans.

How to redeem IHG points:

Sometimes, the hardest part of using any rewards club is redeeming your points. When looking for a hotel through the IHG website, login with your IHG Rewards information before shopping for a reservation. When you search for a specific city and dates, the available hotels will now list both the cash room rate and the number of points as two options for booking.

Here’s how IHG Rewards Club has worked for us:

Often during our travels, our hotel stay is a major part of our vacation. We choose our resort with care, and it’s important to us that it reflect the atmosphere and culture of our destination, whether that be a beach stay or a ski vacation. These stays cost us more than if we’d simply chosen the cheapest hotel available, but we earn points during the trip.

Later, we use these points to take care of the many ‘pit stop’ hotel stays we need during travel the rest of the year. For instance, when our son’s soccer team traveled for a major soccer tournament, hotel rooms in Las Vegas went through the roof (due to demand). Instead of paying a high price for the room we needed, we used IHG points. The stay felt free to us, even though we’d earned it through our hotel stays earlier in the year.

Because IHG hotels include properties in the Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn, Candlewood Suites, and Staybridge Suites hotel families, along with higher tier brands such as Intercontinental and Crowne Plaza, we’ve never had trouble finding a hotel that took our points, no matter where we’ve traveled.

What to do with leftover points:

Here’s my #1 pet peeve about hotel loyalty points: I always have an odd amount leftover after redeeming for a stay. For instance, just last week, I used 20,000 for an overnight at a Holiday Inn Express, leaving me with 5,000 points in my account. In most cases, this is not enough for a stay. Next time I want to use my points, I won’t be able to…right? Not with IHG. Leftover points can easily be applied to a stay you’re paying for in a number of ways, including upgrades to better views and promoted room packages. Or, if you have just a few points, you can hang onto them and buy a few more during your next purchased reservation. For instance, when I booked the Holiday Inn Express, I noticed that for just $40 more on the room rate, I could have gotten 5,000 extra IHG points for my stay.

Ready to try? Register Now.

Time for a giveaway!

Try IHG for yourself the easy easy…with a giveaway!

IHG Share Forever Summer Rewards Program

Titanic Branson: Big city museum in a tourist town

June 10, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Surprised to learn one of the world’s most comprehensive museums on the Titanic disaster docks in Branson, Missouri? So was I. From the outside, Titanic Branson looks suspiciously like any other gimmicky tourist attraction, a la Ripleys Believe It or Not or Madaam Tussauds wax museums. Step inside, however, and it’s an entirely different story.

The brainchild and passion of former television producers, Titanic Branson is both a serious, historically accurate museum with actual Titanic artifacts and an immersive experience. I am hesitant to say it’s a ‘Hollywood’ experience, in fear this description will imply inauthenticity or hookiness…the museum is neither. Instead, it’s simply delightful, engaging, sobering, and meaty, all at once.

Visitors select an entry time to go through the museum, and the experience begins at the door, as you’re greeted by Titanic crew members. These individuals, who appear throughout the experience to educate, guide, and inform, are talented actors and actresses who know their facts inside and out. The interior of the museum is designed as a replica of the Titanic itself, with corridors, to-scale staterooms, and even a reproduction of the famous grand staircase. The building team used actual Titanic blueprints to create the museum: the result, even while in a group tour with artifacts and exhibits lining the walls, is fully immersive.

Upon arrival, guests are given a card with an actual Titanic passenger bio. Hang onto that: you may see information on your passenger as you tour the museum, and will learn the fate of him or her before leaving. The bottom levels of the museum—aka Third Class—tells the story of the building and departure of the ship in Belfast, and introduces visitors to both key players such as ‘Unsinkable’ Molly Brown Captain Edward Smith, and tycoons such as JP Morgan, as well as ordinary passengers you likely haven’t heard of. There are excellent exhibits on lesser covered passenger groups, such as the children of the Titanic, plus replica rooms of Third Class cabins and actual artifacts such as Titanic menus, tickets, and letters.

Visitors ascend the Grand Staircase, and upstairs, see a model of a First Class cabin, plus models of the bridge where the iceberg was spotted and the outside deck, complete with chilly air and starry skies. In a fully immersive hall, visitors can try to stand on a replica deck angled at three different degrees experienced by the passengers as the ship sunk, sit in a replica lifeboat, and plunge hands into a bucket of icy water the exact degree of the Atlantic on that cold April night. All the while, Titanic crew members regale with stories from the disaster. The entire experience is fascinating.

In the last hall, a Titanic manifesto lets you know if ‘your’ passenger perished or survived the disaster. While this comes at the end, make no mistake: the focal point of the entire museum experience is on personal stories. Yes, there are artifacts that wow, and yes, there is a lot of factual information, but where Titanic Branson shines is in making the disaster personal by telling personal accounts.

Note: The images and exhibits in the museum is suitable for all ages; however, school-aged kids of at least age 8 and up will get the most out of the experience. If you have sensitive children, you may want to wait until age 10 and up, and prepare kids by explaining the event of the Titanic before arriving. There are many stories of people who perished, of course, which could disturb young kids. In other words, this attraction isn’t just ‘movie level’ Titanic…it’s the real deal and sad stories exist here.

Distance from the interstate:

Right off Highway 65 in the heart of Branson.

Cost of admission:

Tickets are $27, with a $3 per ticket discount if booked online. To get the entry time you’d like, booking online is highly recommended.

Hours:

Hours vary substantially by season: check hours here.

Directions:

Find the museum located at 3235 76 Country Blvd & Hwy 165 in Branson, Missouri. Another location is found at Pigeon Forge, TN.

Photo credit: Brad Holt

The family guide to Australia’s East Coast

June 9, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

The Australian East Coast is vast and diverse, with something to offer for every member of the family, even the moody teenager. From Melbourne to Cape Tribulation, from Sydney to Cairns, the east coast is packed with exciting holiday destinations for the whole family. The best and most fun way to discover all there is on offer is by taking a road trip. This is the family guide to Australia’s east coast:

The big cities

Ask most people doing an Australian East Coast trip and they are bound to tell you they are visiting the three east coast capital cities: Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. All unique and beautiful in their own way, these three cities are well worth the visit.

Take Brisbane, the smallest of the three. What Brisbane loses in size, it makes up for in charm. The pride and joy of the Sunshine State, Brisbane has plenty on offer for young and old families. Whether you’re taking a dip at Southbank, or doing some shopping in trendy West End, Brisbane will not disappoint.

Next on the list is family favourite, Sydney. Australia’s largest city features tourist attractions including the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and much more.

Then there´s Sydney´s eternal rival, Melbourne, it’s not just for hipsters! Melbourne has plenty on offer for families too! From spending the day at St. Kilda’s Luna Park, to strolling through the array of world-renowned art galleries and museums, there is always plenty to do in Melbourne. It is also extremely easy and cheap for the whole family to catch trams around the city.

Coast

Any Australian East Coast trip is guaranteed to involve lots of beach time. So which beaches are the best? Starting from the top, there’s the pristine resort town of Airlie Beach. Here you’ll have the chance to take the kids sailing, swimming, or just relax by the pool at your resort! Close by are the Whitsunday Islands. The Whitsundays provide the perfect opportunity for you to set sail on one of the many yacht tours that sail through the breathtaking group of islands, allowing you to spend a few days scuba diving and soaking up the sun.

Around Brisbane, you and the family will have plenty of opportunities to hit the surf. Take a ferry to Fraser Island and camp out in comfort, with excellent facilities at hand. Drive along the beach, throw some snags on the BBQ, go fishing, or take a dip in Lake McKenzie. Or, perhaps you’d prefer the Gold Coast? The Gold Coast, just an hour drive from Brisbane, is home to fantastic surfing and swimming beaches, as well as a handful of amusement parks that the kids are sure to love.

For a more relaxed vibe, drive down the coast to Byron Bay and take a yoga lesson, go sea kayaking, or simply relax with some fish and chips on the beach. Northern NSW and Sydney also have some excellent spots for surfing, or just enjoying the view.

What else?

So, now we’ve covered the big cities and the fantastic beaches of the Australian East Coast. But, that’s not all there is! Don’t forget the gorgeous country towns, valleys, and outback destinations scattered along the coast! For example, just outside Sydney you will find a charming little town called ‘Nundle’. Taking the family to Nundle Sheep Station for the night, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a shearing demonstration and learn about sheep farming from an expert shearer. You can even stay the night in the shearer’s quarters. Not far away, you can taste the wine of the Hunter Valley. For the kids, take a drive to Bingara, here you can try gold panning at a historic gold mine, go horseback riding, or take a swim in the local waterhole.

These are just a few of the highlights of the Australian East Coast. With hundreds of destinations and a million ways to do it, you’re sure to find an Australian East Coast holiday that will satisfy the whole family. So what are you waiting for? Book your flights and start planning for the road trip of a lifetime.

Photo credit: Cory Leopold, Jodie Wilson and Ari Bakker.

Road Trip Through Spain: Madrid to Barcelona

June 3, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Ask GoogleMaps how to get from Madrid to Barcelona, and you’ll be taken in a direct shot along the E-90. But take the road less traveled on a road trip from Madrid to Barcelona, and you’ll be rewarded with fewer tourists and a more authentic local scene. Starting in Madrid, take the E-901 from Madrid through Cuenca and Aragon before meeting up again with the E-90 or A-2 into the seaside city of Barcelona.

Rent a car in Madrid, then set out from the city by mid-morning. You’ll want to budget at least an overnight for this road trip, but you could certainly stretch it to two nights if you really want to linger.

Cuenca:

The medieval town of Cuenca is less than two hours from Madrid, on E-901. Cuenca’s famous ‘hanging houses’ are located here; the walled town is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Built by the Moors, Cuenca has Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, thanks to the Castilians who conquered the city in the 12th century. With kids, stop at the Parque Natural de la Serrania de Cuenca, where everyone can get out of the car for some hiking in this beautiful and visually interesting countryside. The narrow roads are steep in some parts of the park, but this just adds to the thrill for kids.

Before driving on, see the Casas Colgadas for a lesson in unique architecture; these houses seem to hover over the cliffs, with layers of balconies and gables. You can see them best from the old town, past the Puente de San Paulo footbridge.

Teruel:

Continuing on from Cuenca, head toward Teruel on the N-320 (connecting to the N-420). This section of the drive is about two hours and 45 minutes, but I recommend continuing on to Aragon for an overnight stop. Stop in Teruel for a break, however, taking in the gorges rising up from the Rio Turia in this industrial city. During this part of the drive, you’ll enter the mountain valleys and vineyards of the Aragon region. The villages tucked away between earth-colored hills are ancient, and look sunk into their surroundings. When I went through, I had to remind myself I was still in modern-day Spain.

Aragon:

Approximately six hours’ drive time from Madrid (but more like eight hours after a few stops en route), you’ll arrive in Aragon. Stay the night, then get up with the sun so you have time to explore this city before getting back on the road. Start with the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the baroque cathedral where Catholic believers say Santiago saw the Virgin Mary. It opens at 7 am, so this makes for a nice pre-breakfast sight if you have early risers.

About 30 minutes drive away, in Zaragoza, is the Museo Pablo Gargallo, as well as rafting trips and float trips down the Ebro River. Spending most the day in the area to combine a bit of culture with some outdoor adventure is a great way to go; head out toward Barcelona in the mid-afternoon.

The remaining drive is just over three hours. Arrive in Barcelona as the sun is setting!

This post was written in partnership with Enterprise rental cars. Itinerary is my own.

Photo credit: Felipe Gabaldón, Andrew Gould, Jorge Correa

Travel Gear We Use: Best water bottles for kids

May 29, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Next up in the Travel Gear We Use series: best water bottles for kids! We go absolutely nowhere without our water bottles…one per family member. They need to be durable, spill proof, fit in car cupholders and backpack water bottle pockets, and be fun or trendy enough that my kids (ages 14-8) will actually want to keep track of them. Here’s which water bottles for kids make the cut:

Sigg kids’ bottle:

The Sigg Primeval Glow Water Bottle is just the right size for young kids at .4 L (and they’ll fit in backpacks for school, too). They come in a wide variety of styles, but we’re partial to the glow-in-the-dark option. More important than the cute designs, however, is the spill-proof top: the kids like that it has a valve they can easily sip from, and I like that it closes completely (no more germ playground). Sigg bottles are lightweight, and of course BPA-free. Pick up a kids’ Sigg for $14-16 on Amazon.

Liberty Bottleworks sports bottle:

If your kids like drinking from a straw instead of a valve, but you’re sick of the sight of chewed, gross straw tops (you know it happens!), check out the Liberty Bottleworks Sport Water Bottle. The straw on this aluminum, USA-made bottle flips up only when needed, and it’s very thick and substantial. No harm can come to it, I promise! The size is just right for school-aged kids at 12 oz or 16 oz, and like the Sigg, there are tons of fun designs. I like that carrying the Liberty bottle is easy, too, due to the hook at top (which clips onto any backpack). Pick one up for $15-17 on Amazon.

Hydro Flask standard bottle:

If your kids kick it old-school, and like standard, screw-top water bottle tops without bite valves and straws, opt for my personal favorite bottle: USA-made Hydro Flask. They come in many sizes, but for kids the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel 12 ounce wins the day. What’s best about Hydro Flask: all their bottles are highly insulated. This means they’re heavy, but they will keep cold liquids ice-cold for hours, and ditto for hot liquids. Nothing beats a Hydro Flask for summer road trips, when everyone can sip cold water in the car! Pick up a 12 ounce Hydro Flask for around $18 on Amazon.

Camelbak Eddy and Chute:

We’ve fallen in love with Camelbak bottles when we want something lightweight, spill proof, and ready for adventure. Since both the Eddy and the Chute are designed to use with a carabiner when needed, they work wonderfully to clip to rafts or kayaks. We’ve used only Camelbak Eddys for both our OARS rafting trips. Because the Eddy has a flip-open straw top, we avoid spills when young kids are drinking out of them, and for those among us who like to gulp our water (er, that would be me), the Chute has a wide spout that doesn’t restrict the flow of water like other bottles do. Snap the Forge lid onto a handy holder when you’re drinking, so it won’t bop you on the nose. (Trust me.) Pick up the Eddy in multiple colors on Amazon for just $11 or the Chute for about the same price.

Avex Brazos:

Avex water bottles have one of the most innovative designs for water consumption we’ve seen. The Brazos gets our pick because it’s insulated for double-walled coolness of the water inside, along with a way to clip it to packs or kayaks and a slim design that still fits in side pockets. It does have some weight, however, so little kids may prefer the Avex Kids’ Freeride. It features the same open/close design, which opens at the press of a button and will not spill. Pick up the Brazos on Amazon.

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Need a family thermos option for winter travel and ski days? We love the Sigg Thermal Classic. Fill it with soup or hot chocolate, and use the top as a cup!

More Travel Gear We Use:
Best carry-on luggage for kids
Best overnight backpacks for kids and youth
Best packing cubes and TSA bags for the family
Best point and shoot camera for vacation photos
Best iPhone cases for travel

Photo credit

A stay at The Woodlands Resort, Texas

May 27, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Unless you live in south Texas or follow PGA golf, you probably haven’t heard of The Woodlands Resort. Tucked away in the planned community of Woodlands, Texas, about 25 minutes from Houston, this conference and leisure property has undergone a multi-million dollar remodel, and it shows; guests will be immersed in an upgraded experience from check-in to check-out. Ready to get to know (or become reacquainted with) this revitalized property?

The Woodlands Resort’s renovation included extensive upgrades to guest rooms and conference facilities, but the true ‘wow’ factor lies in its leisure spaces. Families will notice the two championship golf courses immediately, but head behind the first of several guest buildings, and an entire ‘oasis’ of pool and water complexes await. Dubbed the Forest Oasis, this area includes multiple free-form pools, water slides, zero-entry and water fountain play areas, and a brand new 1000+ foot lazy river, complete with rolling current. During peak season, poolside activities are run by the resort daily, and at all times, kids can participate in a fun underwater scavenger hunt (ask for a list of items to find at the cafe).

But the outdoor recreation by no means ends there. The Woodlands Resort also sports 21 tennis courts, a fitness center (with additional exercise pools), a spa, and miles of bike and hiking trails throughout the property. (Bikes are complimentary, and yes, kids’ sizes are available…an oversight at many resorts). Thanks to strict building and planting bylaws in the Woodlands community, the entire property is lush with trees providing greenery and shade, and interlaced with pleasant walkways with patios, seating areas, and outdoor fire pits.

Dining at The Woodlands is somewhat limited for families on a budget, but there are ways around this. A shuttle can take families from The Woodlands Resort to popular shopping areas nearby, such as Market Street with outdoor walkways, cinemas, shops and casual dining, and a full grocery story is in easy walking distance, directly adjacent to the resort. On site, the Dining Room offers a very nice buffet breakfast at standard prices (during my visit, it was approximately $15 for adults), the Cool Water Cafe and the Royal Mile Grille offer casual lunch, and Robard’s Steakhouse impresses with an upscale dinner. Parents will want to splurge on at least one nice night out here; I recommend starting out with the Woodlands’ take on the Manhattan, prepared with incredibly smooth smoked whiskey.

Older kids can grab appetizers and play a game of billiards in the Bistro (which shifts to 21 and older at 9 pm), or families can grab a casual dinner at the pool area (in peak season). While babysitting or children’s club services are not available on site (and how we wish they were!), the concierge desk can absolutely help parents find recommended local babysitting services.

A note about the Woodlands Resort’s large conference facilities: family leisure travelers will hardly notice them. With conference facilities across the main lake and water feature from the guest rooms and leisure side of the property, this section of the resort didn’t impact our stay at all.

Rooms are spacious, located in buildings 3000, 4000, and 5000. The 3000 building faces one golf course and peaceful water features, and 4000 and 5000 encircle the Forest Oasis water park area. Families with kids who plan to spend the majority of their time in this area should book at ground-level room in 5000, where balconies open up right onto the pool. In-room amenities include single-cup coffee makers, free wifi, Bath and Bodyworks bathroom amenities, and mini-fridges. Double queen bed rooms have baths and showers, and king rooms have walk-in showers only.

While The Woodlands Resort is not what I’d consider a ‘destination resort’ for most families, when you get here, you’ll certainly feel as though you’ve arrived.

What do I mean by this? Everything about the Woodlands is so lovely, once on-site, families won’t have much reason to leave. With golf courses, bike and hiking trails, tennis courts, upscale restaurants, and an outdoor water play and pool complex you’ll be hard-pressed to top, families are well-taken care of. However, as the greater Houston region is not already a family vacation magnet, the question becomes, when will families come, and more specifically, for what type of vacation? I mulled this question over throughout my stay, wanting to connect this beautiful property with a logical vacation plan for families. After three near-perfect days at Woodlands Resort, I came up with the following ‘excuses’ to book a trip:

Houston home base:

As the fourth largest city in the US, Houston has plenty of visitors. Whether you’re coming to the city for business or a family vacation, why not skip expensive overnight parking fees and the noise or stress of the city and spread out in a more peaceful setting? This isn’t the first time I’ve recommended booking a leisure-focused resort outside a major destination, and it won’t be the last: the downtime this strategy affords families during a busy travel schedule is simply so beneficial. After spending a full day in Houston’s extensive museum district or before cheering on a Houston team, for instance, families staying at The Woodlands can be floating along the lazy river, riding bikes along tree-lined paths, and spending full mornings on green golf courses. I’m relaxing just thinking about it.

How I’d spend a Woodlands Resort stay as a Houston home base:

Drive into the city after 9 am, and return before 4 pm, to avoid traffic
Visit Houston museums and public parks
Spend late afternoons in Forest Oasis

Travel tip: with extensive conference space, The Woodlands Resort sees more than its share of business travelers. But take my word on this: while on the property for work, you’ll be seeing activities your kids would love at every turn. Bring them in for the weekend following a conference or meeting.

Golf vacation:

With two championship courses, Panther Trail and Oaks, families who golf together will be content at The Woodlands for days. Both courses welcome children on the links (afternoon tee times are the most kid-friendly), rent clubs, even child sizes, and offer lessons. The practice green is lit at night for additional play time, and the driving range has extended hours as well. When not golfing, kids will want to be in the Forest Oasis ‘waterscape’.

How I’d spend a Woodlands Resort stay during a golf vacation:

Let the kids play in Forest Oasis during the morning, or take a golf lesson
Play 18 holes starting right after lunch
Relax with a family game of pool in the Bistro before dinner
Take the resort shuttle to Market Street for a movie

Parents’ or adults getaway:

I’ve already warned you that if you don’t bring the kids, you’ll immediately miss them with so many family-focused offerings, but should you be able to tear yourself away, parents will do well on the tennis courts (book a lesson!), bike paths, and enjoy the Woodlands Resort spa in addition to the golf courses. With 194 miles of trail, you could easily spend a whole morning or afternoon cycling. Add a shopping trip to Market Street for some leisurely shopping at storefronts from Tiffany’s to Charming Charlie, or a music performance at the nearby Pavillon, and you may not miss the little ones.

How I’d spend a Woodlands Resort stay during a getaway without the kids:

Sleep in!
Eat a leisurely breakfast at the Dining Room buffet before a spa treatment
Spend time by the spa and fitness area pools
Take the shuttle to Market Street for some shopping or window shopping
Enjoy an easy five mile cycle or walk around the golf courses
Book a late dinner at Robard’s Steakhouse, followed by after-dinner drinks at a fire pit outside the bar

Houston staycation:

Houston residents should absolutely be taking advantage of the Woodlands Resort’s proximity. Because all you need for play, rest, and relaxation are at your fingertips, it makes for the perfect staycation hotel. Definitely book a stay in the off-season to avoid heat and crowds at the Forest Oasis, and to snag lower room rates. Only resort guests can use Forest Oasis, so book at least a one-night stay, then plan to linger the next day.

How I’d spend a Woodlands Resort staycation:

Arrive after work and school on an off-season Friday night
Grab appetizers for dinner at the Bistro
Play in the pools or golf the next day, lingering after check-out to have lunch at the Cool Water Cafe

Room rates:

During off-season, room rates are more than comfortable at $159 to $199 (poolside walk-out), and rates only rise about $100 during peak season. Five can fit into a room with a rollaway, or additional space (and a second bathroom) can be secured via adjoining rooms. There are a limited number of suites and junior suites, but the best value for families still lies in the single or double room options.

Directions:

From Bush Intercontinental Airport, it’s an easy 25 minute drive (without traffic) on I-45 or the Hardy Toll Road to Woodlands Parkway at Exit 76B. Turn left onto Grogan’s Mill Road, then turn right at the first light at North Millbend Drive. The resort entrance is on the left.

As I disclose whenever applicable, I experienced The Woodlands Resort as a hosted guest, for the purpose of review. Without this opportunity to preview the resort, I would not be able to write a comprehensive review.

Where to eat with kids on Kauai North Shore

May 22, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Eating out is one of the most expensive aspects of any family vacation, right after airfare and lodging. When your vacation is in the Hawaiian islands, the cost can be even higher.

Wondering where to eat with kids that won’t break the bank? We have plenty of picks for Kauai, particularly on the North Shore. If you’re staying in a vacation rental, all the better…you can make meals at home, and supplement with these fun eats:

Best lunch to-go or dinner pick-up:

North Shore Country Store:

Grab a great plate lunch here, or pick up a pizza to go to eat at home after a fun beach day. This store is right by the gas station at the entrance of the Princeville resort community, near the Foodland store and other convenience stops.

Kilauea Fish Market:

This cute hole-in-the-wall near the Kilauea Lighthouse is located in a small shopping center (go around back). They have a limited menu with only what’s most fresh and available, and offer plate lunches with fresh fish, rice, and potato-mac salad. There’s also fish tacos, and people rave about the mahi mahi wraps…we tried the plate lunches only, and loved them. Order ahead and pick up to take back to your vacation rental or to the beach, or eat at outside picnic tables.

Puka Dog:

Located in Hanalei, Puka Dog has to-die-for hot dogs topped with relishes like pineapple relish, banana relish, or mango relish, plus mild to hot garlic sauce and Hawaiian spicy-sweet mustard. Veggie dogs are also available. Grab dogs to go for the beach, and be sure to try the homemade lemonade, too!

Sunshine Markets:

Look for these open-air farmer’s markets across the island, on designated days and times. We found the Hanalei one on Saturday morning, with acai smoothies, lots of fresh produce, juice bars, and handcrafted items. Pick up produce for dinner and treats for your morning.

Moloaa Sunrise Fruit Stand:

This small dining space along the highway between Princeville and Kapa’a is so much more than a fruit stand, but still looks just like one, which is part of its charm. When you pull up into the dirt parking lot, the first thing you see is fresh fruit lining the front counter in baskets, with a list of prices by the pound. At the counter, grab a menu and pick out a fresh fruit smoothie or freeze, or opt for a full meal. They serve amazing breakfasts and sandwiches here. Try the Ahi sandwich or the breakfast burrito. Eat at the open-air counter or take it to go.

Note: many readers also seem to love Bubba’s, in Hanalei, for their great burgers. We didn’t get a chance to try this counter-service establishment ourselves, however.

Best nice dinner out:

Dolphin Restaurant:

Located in downtown Hanalei, the Dolphin features an open-air dining room, outdoor ‘garden’ seating, and a fish market. Come at night to eat in the glow of tiki torches, and be sure to try the sushi. We had a nice meal out with the adults only during our trip, but we saw plenty of kids, too. Dolphin manages to be casual but also upscale, a rare but beautiful quality in a restaurant. They have a nice wine list and lots of fun cocktails. I loved the Skinny Chi Chi with coconut vodka. Plan to spend about $25-$35 per entree for adults…a bit overpriced, in my opinion, but off-set by the friendly service and nice ambiance.

Postcards Cafe:

We didn’t get a chance to eat here, but my sister and brother-in-law did, and reported that the food was as tasty as at Dolphin, in a more intimate, cozy setting. You’ll get excellent service at Postcards, and enjoy your meal in a quaint Hawaiian plantation house. The restaurant is located right across the street from Dolphin in Hanalei, and does require reservations on most evenings.

Best Shave Ice:

Let’s get serious: the most important meal of the day is your daily shave ice on Kauai, right? We enjoyed several shave ice stands in Hanalei, but the lines get very long in this resort area. Instead, head up the road toward Princeville to the shopping center. Directly across from the North Shore General Store, you’ll see Kauai Shave Ice. This hole-in-the-wall stand uses natural syrups, without any corn syrup and non-GMO. Hang onto your cone though, because the cups used can topple over.

We found the shave ice with the best price in Kapa’a, at Ono Ono Shave Ice. It’s in a parking lot, so we took our shave ice here to go, but prices start at just $3.50 instead of the usual $4 for four flavors. Add a scoop of ice cream to the bottom for just a $1 or $1.50 more.

Note: for a healthier option, try an acai bowl. This smoothie-type treat comes with fresh cut fruit and granola on top.

Best Luau:

Smith’s Tropical Island Paradise:

An evening at Smith’s is a full schedule of food and entertainment. Get there right when it opens (at 5 pm in the spring and summer) to walk the grounds before the excitement begins. When you arrive, you’ll be handed shell leis and a map of the gardens; either take the tram on a loop tour, or explore on your own. We took the tram, then wandered back to our favorite spots. Be sure to buy bird feed for the kids to throw to the many peacocks, chickens, and ducks!

Dinner is served following a ceremonial uncovering of the roasted pig (which is optional to watch), and is served buffet-style. There was plenty to eat and drink, and the kids had fun trying Hawaiian dishes such as poi and shredded pork. There’s an open bar for the adults, with Mai Tais, wine, and beer, but we found out the bartenders will make you whatever you want. During dinner, you’ll be entertained by dancers and a band.

Check out the kids, or ‘keikis’ learning the hula:

After dinner, head to the amphitheater for the luau show. It lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes, and everyone in our group, from the four-year-old to the grandparents, enjoyed it. It was very professionally done, though the length was a tad long after a full day (we wouldn’t have minded a one hour show). The whole evening was well organized and relaxing, and we recommend it as a first luau for newcomers to the islands. Smith’s is affordable for families with kids (they’re only $19 each) but you’ll pay over $78 for each adult. Consider it a full scale evening out…dinner and a show.

Where do you like to eat on Kauai?

Oboz Sundog review: hiking shoes that please the teen

May 15, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

I have a 13-year-old who loves hiking, but hates hiking boots. We’ve tried just about everything, from rugged backpacking boots that I hoped would look ‘cool’ to very simple Columbia low-cut hiking shoes that practically slid onto his feet. It didn’t matter: he always preferred to hike in his Keen sandals.

I’m a huge fan of Keens for outdoor adventure and travel: we believe about 80% of all outdoor activities can be done in Keens. But for the other 20%, we needed to find this kid some hiking shoes that he’d wear without argument.

As an Oboz ambassador, I learned about the full line of men’s Oboz shoes, which now include a Trailsport category in addition to low and high hiking shoes and backpacking boots. Trailsport shoes include Oboz’ lightest, most agile, and most versatile shoes, so I ordered my teen the Oboz Sundog and crossed my fingers. Maybe he wouldn’t notice they’re trail shoes…

He did. The rugged tread gives that away. But, after weighing the Sundog in his hand like a melon in a grocery store, and realizing they weighed the same as his beloved Keens (and his Nike school shoes, for that matter), he gave them a chance.

Right out of the box, the Sundog feels like a sneaker, though with more stability. It’s made of single-piece mesh, with only the seams and support that’s absolutely necessary. In fact, it’s described as ‘only-what-you-need protection’. You get leather heel, toe, and mid-foot overlays, but even these are minimalistic. The Sundog is incredibly breathable, and while the shoes are not waterproof, this wasn’t a deal-breaker for us. This is the kid who prefers to wear sandals, remember?

He gave the Sundog a test drive on a local trail near our home in Southern Oregon. We encountered some mud, per usual in spring, but otherwise contended with dry trails. He got the support he needed (he’d recently had an ankle injury), without being weighed down by clunky boots. He loved the color of the Sundog (you can get them in a bright ‘Woodbine’ green) and when they got wet, they dried out reasonably fast. At the end of the hike, the teen gave his reluctant approval. Yes, the Sundogs could accompany him on our seven-day PCT hike this summer. When we go on our five-day rafting trip, however, he’s brining his Keens.

What to look for in hiking shoes for kids who hate hiking shoes:

Turn your ankle a few times, and you’ll understand why the support of hiking shoes–not just on the ankle but also on the arch and sole–is crucial. Slip on rocks or logs, and you’ll know why you need the traction afforded by hiking shoes. The challenge is imparting this message to kids and teens who don’t want to listen, of course. Here are a few characteristics we look for in a hiking shoe:

Lightweight: The lighter the weight, the less like a hiking shoe the shoe will feel. Kids who can jump and run in their shoes will be willing to wear them.
Low-cut: Forget about full ankle support for kids who don’t like the restrictive feeling of high-tops. High-quality low-cut hiking shoes will still provide enough stability, mostly because they cradle the arch well.
Lots of mesh: Breathable hiking shoes are more popular around here than any other. Enough said.
Well-fitting arch: Know if your kid or teen has a high or low arch, and make sure his or her shoes fit accordingly. Look for a quality insole if needed.

Want to try the Sundog? They’re $100 on the Oboz site. Need Keens for the other 80% of outdoor activities? Get a deal on the men’s Newport on Amazon.