RV vacation tips for the summer of 2021

May 13, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Pit Stops for Kids is, at its roots, a resource for families who love to hit the road. We’ve evolved over the last decade to include destinations and vacations across the world, but during these uncertain times, we invite you to join us in returning to what we know best! For the summer of 2020, a road trip or camping trip might be the best vacation for your family. And we’re here to help you plan it safely.

As states slowly open up again to domestic travel, the challenge remains for families to be able to explore while social distancing. One ideal way to do this is with a camper van or RV vacation. Why? You and your family can social distance using your own:

dining area
bathrooms
sleeping quarters

You only patronize local restaurants and hotels when and where you feel it’s safe to do so. Get our RV camping tips here.

Tips for choosing where to go on a road trip or RV vacation:

Even if you can ensure self-containment within your RV or camper van for meals, bathrooms, and sleeping, you’ll want to vacation, right? This means picking a destination that’s open for tourism. Check national state park closure lists, but in the early planning stage, don’t be afraid to make campground reservations. Recreation.gov will cancel and refund you in the event that the campground is not yet open in time for your trip.

If you don’t want to camp at a designated campground, consider dispersed camping. Any BLM and national forest service land is free to camp on; pick up a local BLM map and call the ranger station for ideas. Remember that you’ll be off-the-grid while dispersed camping, so you’ll need to be self-reliant for power and heat, and will need to follow Leave No Trace principles.

A third option is HipCamp, which pairs RV campers and road trippers with private land available for camping. It’s like AirbnB for camping, and is a great way to socially distance while enjoying a new location. Check out our dispersed camping and HipCamp tips.

Once you have campground reservations or have decided on your dispersed camping option, do some research on your intended destination in general: are locals welcoming tourism to the area? Many are, but some regions are wary. Will local restaurants be open for take-out or delivery? Are local attractions, such as museums or parks, open? If not, think of alternative plans: are hiking trails in the area? Can you access greenways or bike paths?

We have successfully enjoyed a private campground experience, a HipCamp experience, and a Rec.gov campground experience since this spring, all while maintaining distance from others and utilizing our own kitchen areas, sleeping areas, and bathrooms in our camper van.

But what if you don’t own an RV or camper van?

You can rent one! RVshare is the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. Families can rent anything from a travel trailer to a luxury motorhome (and if you own an RV, RVShare is a great way to make some vacation cash while you’re staying at home). RVShare offers:

100,000 listings across the US
a worry-free rental guarantee
Rentals available in all 50 states
A safe and secure booking/payment platform
Instant bookable
24/7 Emergency roadside assistance on every booking
Pet-friendly options
Delivery and stationary options
Comprehensive Nationwide Protection: RVshare Rental Insurance covers both domestic and international renters and provides collision and comprehensive coverage

The average cost is $150/night and anyone with a valid driver’s license can drive. All drivers must be at least 25 years of age. By choosing an RV vacation this summer, you’ll save yourself the heartache of canceled airfare and have more control over your family trip during this time of uncertainty. Enjoy the outdoors!

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by RVShare. All opinions remain my own.

Four days in the Canadian Rockies: Jasper and Banff National Park road trip

May 10, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

It’s very hard to plan a trip to the Canadian Rockies. Why? No matter how ambitious your itinerary, there’s always one more place to visit just a few kilometers down the road. But if you do have to scale your trip to under one week, here’s how to spend four days in and around Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway, during a Jasper and Banff National Park road trip.

Start in Jasper:

The small town of Jasper is a gateway to outdoor adventure in every season. From late spring through early fall, hiking and lake visits reign, and in winter snowshoeing, skiing, and ice climbing can be found throughout the area. We visited in October and loved the beautiful scenery to low crowd ratio.

Maligne Canyon:
Head just a few minutes outside of Jasper on Highway 16 to Maligne Canyon. In winter, this is where you’ll see ice climbers navigating the frozen waterfalls, but in all other seasons, the flowing water of the Maligne River bubbles and falls over rocks and through gorges before disappearing underground (just to emerge again in blue pools). The trail loops with several options for return, allowing families to choose how long they hike. We hiked for approximately one hour and made it to five of six bridges that traverse the river.

The water is fast-flowing, but railings are in place to keep kids from getting too close. The incline can be steep and slippery at times, but the scenery is absolutely worth the effort.

Town of Jasper:
You don’t have to leave town to see wildlife and enjoy trails. Take the Discovery Trail through town, which includes interpretive signs throughout to teach about the history of the area. Look for elk strolling town in the early evenings and mornings; they often stop traffic! And when you’re back from your hike, stop for ice cream or shop for souvenirs or hiking gear in the easily-navigated 2-3 block downtown.

Where to stay:

The Tonquin Inn is located just a few blocks from downtown and has everything parents with kids need: a large indoor pool and hot tub, additional outdoor hot tubs, a comprehensive complimentary breakfast buffet, and comfortable rooms with scenic views.

Make the most of driving the Icefields Parkway:

The Icefields Parkways has been rated as one of the most scenic drives in the world, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a pit stop for two. Break up the four-hour drive from Jasper to Banff with a stop midway along the Icefields Parkway. Located at the border between the two national parks, the Columbia Icefields Centre is hard to miss. Here’s what to expect:

The Columbia Icefields Centre is where you can stop for a meal and clean bathrooms, plus a great view of the Athabasca Glacier. Kids (and parents) will immediately notice the ‘Ice Explorers’ navigating the glacier surface…and want to ride in one. This attraction at the Centre is Brewster’s Glacier Adventure, and tickets can be bought in the lower level. The tour takes you on a short bus shuttle to the edge of the glacier, where you transfer to specially-designed Ice Explorers (souped up ATV-bus hybrids, for lack of a better description). The Ice Explorers take you on a short but exciting drive out onto the ice, where they stop and let you get out and walk around in a very contained circle. Because the space where visitors can stand on the ice is so small (and feels much like a parking lot with multiple Ice Explorers parked), most kids will find the ride out the most exciting part. Guides do a very good job of educating you on the glacier in an entertaining way, but the actual ice walk can be a let-down.

Closer stops to Jasper include either the Athabasca or Sunwapta falls. Both scenic falls are located roadside, necessitating only a short walk to the view points. At Sunwapta, a restaurant and other roadside facilities make for welcome additions. Closer to Banff, Bow Lake is an easy stop, and can include swimming in summer and short hiking options.

Up next, continuing your road trip to Banff National Park! Click on the button below to continue.

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10 tips for camping with kids

May 7, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Are you thinking of taking your kids camping? Whether it’s your first camping trip or 20th camping adventure with the whole family, these tips for camping may change the way you “rough it” when you go camping with kids in tow. Picking a great kid-friendly campsite for your next family vacation is the first part, but packing the right supplies is just as important to ensuring camping fun!

Tip One – Pack Everything in Clear Tubs

Organizing your items before you go out is key to a successful camping trip, whether or not you bring kids. The goal is to make everything easy to find once you get to your spot, so you want to group like items together. Have one tub for kitchen items, food and snacks, toys, bathroom and bathing, clothes and laundry, sleeping bags and tents, and music and entertainment. This is a huge time saver before, during, and when you get back home and have to unpack everything. Also, it makes it easy to protect your items from the rain.

Tip Two – Bring a Load of Antibacterial and Baby Wipes

Since you’re out in the woods, you won’t have a dedicated area to go and give your kids a bath or shower. These wipes allow you to get a lot of the dirt and grime off your kids as they play. Set a towel or blanket down in front of your tents to give your kids an area to wipe off. This can help keep your tent clean. Also, bring along bug wipes or bug spray for the mosquitos that come out after dusk.

Tip Three – Set up Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements

Baby care is a big factor when looking for tips for camping. If you’re bringing a baby that sleeps in a crib, bring along a pack and play. Tossing an extra sheet across the top can keep bugs out, and they’re easy to move around as you cook. Another option is a portable bassinet. For the bigger kids, consider investing in a double camping cot that looks like a bunk bed. Not only does it save space, but it’s versatile. If you want to sleep directly on the ground, get a thicker foam mat and put it down first for extra cushion. Don’t forget comfortable pillows and sleeping bags.

Tip Four – Bring Along Entertainment Items

Your kids won’t be able to entertain themselves 100% of the time. The biggest thing you can do is bring a tub full of toys that are electronic-free and camping-friendly. Things they might like include bubbles, squirt guns, coloring books, balls, card games, camping bingo kits, bug catcher cases, blocks, or musical items. You want to have a nice variety that the kids can use throughout your trip to stay entertained. Also, plan to take them on short hikes or walks around the campsite.

Tip Five – Set up a Bath Station

Kids get dirty at home. Just imagine how dirty they’ll get when you’re outside for two or three days straight. You want to be able to set up a small bathing station. To do this, you’ll need to bring a plastic bath for babies or an extra plastic tub you can fill with water. Fill the tub in the morning and let the sun warm it up throughout the day. You can also get a solar-heated shower bag if you don’t have any lakes nearby to take a quick dip in.

Cute little sisters and their father roasting marshmallows on sticks at bonfire. Children having fun at camp fire. Camping with kids in fall forest. Family leisure with kids at autumn.

Tip Six – Take Nighttime Safety Into Consideration

Glow sticks are very easy to find, and they make it easy to spot your kids after the sun goes down. They can easily string together several for a necklace, and you can set them around your campsite for light. Another option you have is to buy headlamps for everyone to wear. Invest in a few hanging lanterns for the tent. Another option is to make your own lantern by filling a jug of water and putting a headlamp around it with the light facing inward. It’ll create a soft glow.

Tip Seven – Plan Easy Snacks and Meals

Being outside all day is one fast way to work up an appetite. To keep the kids full, pack easy snack ideas like apples, grapes, cheese sticks, bananas, sliced cucumbers, crackers, baby carrots, and raisins. To make it easy on you for mealtimes, precook meat items at home, so all you have to do is warm them up. Bratwurst and chicken are easy, and you can bring along things for sandwiches. Pack a few different cold cuts, cheese, or peanut butter and jelly for quick mealtime options.

Tip Eight – Check for Local Park Programs

If you plan to camp in a national park, check out Junior Ranger programs. Almost every national park has one, and your kids can get involved in a range of activities. The ages range from 5 to 13, and they have a ranger book that allows your kids to earn badges. Local state campgrounds might also offer staff-led activities that your kids can participate in. This can give the parents a short break while the kids learn educational but fun things during the program hours.

Tip Nine – Pack a Smaller Tent for Play Space

Your kids may like to play in the tent, but this can easily end up dirtying up their sleeping space. Instead, you should pack a smaller tent for the kids to give them a space to play. You can even store their toys in here as a bonus. This comes in very handy if the weather takes a turn and it starts to rain. This doesn’t have to be another full-sized tent, but it should be big enough for the kids to enjoy themselves and move around.

Tip Ten – Bring Extra Clothing

Having a warm sleeping bag may be key when you camp, but your kids should also have extra layers. It’s hard for smaller bodies to generate enough heat to stay continually warm. Make sure you pack outfits for each day but don’t be afraid to bring extra clothing. Don’t forget a pair or two of shoes with warm socks. The evening temperatures can drop significantly, and you want to have enough clothing to easily go around. Also, it’s easy for clothing to get wet, so pack a small clothesline that you can string between two branches and hang the clothes out.

Bottom Line

These top 10 tips for camping with kids will help you pull off a memorable and fun trip, no matter how old or young your children are. The parents will be able to relax a little and enjoy the trip too. Start small and work up to a larger trip, involve your kids, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Five best things to do when you visit Miami

May 5, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

By far one of the most enticing things about visiting Miami, Florida is the fact that no matter when you go, you can almost always count on getting some sunshine. Yes, south Florida enjoys warm sunny weather all year round. Now couple that with the fact that it has some of the best beaches in America (starting, of course, with the iconic Miami Beach) and you have a beautiful destination worth visiting every single time.

During this time of uncertainty, outdoor activities offer the best ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring Miami, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

Of course, if you are going to visit an oceanside city there is simply no way that you can go the entire trip without sunbathing at one of the iconic beaches and getting a glorious tan while you are at it. However, once you are done with all that, or when you are taking a break from laying in the sun, you might want to enjoy these other wonderful attractions that can only be found in Miami, Florida. Here are 5 of the best things to do when you visit Miami.

Take a Ride on the Metromover

Miami has one of the most spectacular skylines in the country. One of the best ways to see it is to party at its iconic rooftop bars at night the other is to ride the metromover during the day. While the locals might think of the metromover as an overcrowded necessity, as a visitor it is by far one of the best ways to get a good look at the city from above. You can simply take a ride from Brickell all the to the Arsht Center and back. That should give you enough time to fully appreciated the alluring architecture that riddles this sunny city.

Go Shopping at the Bayside Marketplace

While Miami has an assortment of well-known chain stores, if you want to find some of the most unique items for sale then you should visit the Bayside Marketplace. Here you will find an array of boutiques in what is America’s most exciting outdoor style malls. The Bayside Marketplace is located right along Miami’s waterfront and it is the place to go if you want to do more than just shop. You can mingle with the locals who come out in droves to soak up the wonderfully lively atmosphere full of live music and all sorts of entertainment.

Rent a Boat and Sail Out into the Ocean

It is true that there is a lot of fun to be had at the beach. You can sunbathe, workout and deep your toes in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. However, if you want to really get out there and have some serious unbridled fun then you should consider renting a boat and sail out into the ocean with a few of your friends. You can do some fishing, more sunbathing, swimming and take awesome selfies showing off your wonderful tan while sipping champagne on a boat in Miami. There are very few better ways to make your friends green with envy.

Where to stay: When visiting Miami, families will want to choose between a midtown or downtown Miami hotel or a South Beach hotel. Miami hotel options are abundant! Bear in mind that while South Beach hotels often have beach access, they also have livelier crowds. Opt for the best environment for your family.

Go Swimming in the Venetian Pool

Miami is one of those metropolitan cities that pays tribute a wide variety of cultures that make it such a warm and vibrant place to be. You can get a taste of Cuba in “Little Havana” or you could experience a little bit of Venice in the Venetian Pool. The Venetian Pool is a historic facility that attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year. Built in 1923, the Venetian Pool can be found in Coral Gables and it was built out of a coral rock quarry. This gorgeous pool holds about 820,000 gallons of water at any given time and is fed by an underground spring water. When summer hits and the pool gets very busy, it gets emptied out and refilled every single day. They even stop selling tickets at some point so you have to book early.

Pay Crandon Park a Visit

If you travel a little south of Miami Beach, right across Rickenbacker Causeway you will come to Key Biscayne. This is one of the most beautiful locations in this part of the planet. As tiny as it is, Key Biscayne has some of the most stunning beaches and outstanding park areas in the region. Out of all these wonderful parks, Crandon Park is by far the most visited and most popular in the area. The reason for this is that the reef here makes swimming a joyous activity. The park also has a Nature and Amusement Center that offers extraordinarily entertaining wholesome family fun. So if you are traveling with the kids be sure to take them over to Crandon Park for an afternoon of fun lessons and reef swimming.

Of course, you could also do the usual things such as:

Go to a vivacious bar
Visit the Miami Children’s Museum
Cruise down Ocean Drive
Catch a live event

Finally, you simply must visit the Miami Sea Aquarium where you can see manatees, killer whales, dolphins and even sharks. The best way to enjoy Miami is to plan a few trips and create a Miami-focused bucket list. You simply cannot do it all in one visit.

We worked in conjunction with hotels.com to bring you the best of Miami. All opinions are our own.

Pros and cons of private campgrounds: alternatives to state and national parks

May 4, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

At Pit Stops for Kids, we love state parks and national parks for overnight camping and family outdoor adventure. But those campgrounds fill up fast during the peak summer season, and sometimes, they’re not ideal for RV camping families. If you need last-minute reservations or camping sites for larger RVs, check out the following private family campground resorts, all of which have locations across the U.S.

Tip: The following campgrounds fill up fast during the peak summer season, and sometimes, they’re not ideal for RV camping families. If you need last-minute reservations or camping sites for larger RVs, make sure you have all the necessary camping essentials, and check out the following private family campground resorts, all of which have locations across the U.S.

Thousand Trails:

Thousand Trails is unique in that it’s a club: for one annual membership, families can camp in unlimited family campgrounds across America. There are several levels of membership, and families who frequently RV camp in specific regions (what Thousand Trails calls ‘zones’) of the country report that they save planning time and quite a bit of money. Like most private family campgrounds, Thousand Trails offers more than just campsites: families have access to camp stores, laundry facilities, pools, and recreation like putt-putt golf or go-karts, depending on the resort. Most Thousand Trails properties are near tourist destinations, and there’s a wide variety especially around the Great Lakes region and coastal California.

Sun RV Resorts:

Like Thousand Trails, Sun RV Resorts are located across the U.S. with a high concentration in the midwest. Properties range from Wisconsin to Florida, and most everywhere in-between. With an emphasis on longer stays, some Sun RV Resorts even boast sports leagues to join. If you’re not an RV camper, there are a few properties with cabins to rent for the night or the week. Sun RV Resorts has some of the most competitive pricing for large, pull-through RV slots.

KOA Kampgrounds of America:

KOA has had it’s ups and downs in our personal experience: we’ve had great stays and lousy stays. What makes all the difference? The property. Since KOAs are individually owned, it’s hard to recommend the brand across the board: we recommend checking individual campground listings on family travel review sites like Trekaroo. We’ve personally had a great time renting KOA’s Kamping Kabins (ignore the annoying purposeful misspelling, if you will). With comfortable beds, tables, heaters, and electricity, these cabins are a good alternative to RV camping or even a motel room. Most KOAs have pools and other on-site recreation to entertain kids, and while many area near tourist attractions, and equal number are convenient to major freeways, making them good road trip pit stops.

Photo credit: Grand Canyon NPS

Dog friendly travel: Four tips when traveling with dogs

April 27, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

John is the founder of Perfect Dog Breeds a magazine focused on helping match dog-parents and dog breeds.

Whether you have a long road trip planned or you’re just popping to see your aunt there are certain things to think about before you load Fido into that SUV. Dog friendly travel is natural and easy for many pets, but there are times when dogs can get unsettled and stressed. We have put together our top tips for making any trips, long or short, as stress-free as possible for you and your pooch! Here’s what you need to know about traveling with dogs.

Image Credit: Well Pet Coach

For dog-friendly travel, get the right gear

We’re not talking snazzy collars or personalized water bowls for the car, we’re talking safety gear. Fido needs to be restrained on all trips – no matter how long or short.

Some owners choose to crate train their pooch in the car, some choose to attach a specific car harness to the seatbelt. This will largely depend on the style of your car – whether there is room in the trunk for a crate, or whether Fido has to go on the back seat.

If you choose the crate, it’s best to crate train him well before your first trip so he’s comfortable being locked in for periods of time. Likewise, allow Fido to get used to wearing a harness outside of the car! Lure Fido into the harness by holding a treat in the neck space. Praise and reward him whilst he is wearing it and distract him with a chew or toy. He’ll soon accept it when it’s associated with good things!

For treats, make sure to pack the extra delicious meaty kind to keep your dog happily busy throughout the ride. Dogs that are not used to long car rides can easily get anxious on trips; it helps to keep them occupied with a tasty treat or their favorite toy since it aids in reducing their stress levels.

Don’t forget an emergency kit for your pet! When traveling with pets, the emergency kit should include:

First aid supplies
Necessary paperwork
Extra water
Extra food
Medications your pets might be taking
A leash for your pets
Treats or toys

Has Fido ever been in the car before?

Start slowly. If Fido hasn’t been in the car before, you need to plan well in advance to get him used to traveling! Open the trunk or the back doors and let Fido sniff around and explore. If he’s going in a crate, open the crate and allow him to explore. Throw some treats into the crate. Don’t lock him in, just let him get comfortable.

Give him a treat in the crate and close the door. Let him out as soon as he’s finished his chew. You want him to associate the crate with good experience. If he’s being attached to a harness, clip him in and praise and reward him. Give him a chew on the back seat; release him as soon as he’s finished. Again, you want the same association.

Start With patience

After Fido has explored the car and isn’t really that bothered by it, start with a short journey – 5 minutes maybe. Praise and reward Fido when you’ve reached your destination or when you’ve come back home.

Some owners give their dog chews during the journey but here you run the risk of Fido choking or even being sick due to the motion of the car. DogGear would always advise keeping the treats for when you stop.

When traveling with dogs, easy does it

Slowly increase the length of your journeys. Watch for signs that Fido isn’t coping for example, whining, crying, whimpering, pacing, excessive panting, yawning or foaming at the mouth. These are all signs that he is stressed, so pull over as soon as it’s safe and take Fido out of the car. Let him calm down before you continue on your journey.

If possible, ask a helper to come along on your first few journeys so they can keep an eye on Fido’s behavior. You can then keep your attention firmly on the road. The last thing anyone wants is a lapse in your attention on the road because you are wondering what Fido is doing or if he’s OK.

Plan ahead for dog friendly travel

Once you are confident that Fido is comfortable in the car, you can plan your trips. Look for truck stops with open spaces where you can easily take Fido potty. Remember to take your poo bags and some bottled water with a bowl. Before you head off, take him for a walk and work on some mental stimulation. This will likely tire him out so he’s more likely to settle and even sleep in the car!

Whilst most dogs happily tolerate traveling, these steps will certainly help you on your way to making those trips as stress-free as possible. Plan ahead, get the right safety gear to restrain him and stock up on some tasty treats and chews to help Fido associate the car with good things! He’ll soon realize that those car trips usually end up as a wonderful adventure (vet visits aside of course)!

Travel with a cat? What to take with you

April 22, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Travel with a cat? Yes, you can! If you are going to arrange a trip in your furry friend’s company, it is worth taking some essentials to help your cat feel comfortable and stay safe.

Even though dogs are believed to be better travel buddies, cat owners don’t want to deprive themselves of a chance to share new experiences with their fluffy friends. Today we see a great tendency that most public places become pet-friendly, and it means that you can arrange a full-fledged adventure with a furry buddy without fear of being not let in somewhere. And if you want to hit the road and go camping, your kitty will be able to enjoy nature and explore the surroundings. Thus, you will kill two birds with one stone since you can go wherever you want, and don’t worry about leaving your buddy in a pet hotel. To make your travel experience comfortable and safe for your cat, it is worth reading redbarn cat food reviews and making a list of essentials you should grab with you when you travel with a feline buddy.

1. Collar and ID tag

Safety and prudence should be the number one priority when it comes to traveling with pets. You can be 100% sure that you will keep an eye on your cat around the clock, but the reality may turn out to be different. Something can distract you only for a minute, and your freedom-loving furry friend will decide to slip away and explore the territory. Therefore, it will not be superfluous to use a collar in combination with an ID tag and even a tracker, so you will be prepared for an unpredictable situation.

2. Carrier

Even though this point seems obvious, many cat owners turn a blind eye to it. However, if you have to leave your cat for a while, it is worth putting it in a carrier for its safety. If you have a home buddy that doesn’t know anything about outdoor life, it can get into trouble. Carriers represent a shelter where your kitty can feel secure and safe. Besides, if you travel by car, your cat will have better chances to survive if you get in an accident.

3. Veterinarian info

You are responsible for your cat’s life and health, so it will be a wise decision to have your vet’s info on hand even if you are going to travel around the country. If your feline buddy suddenly gets sick, your vet can contact a new doc and provide them with all the required info. It is especially true if your cat has some specific health issues, so your furry buddy will not get a treatment that can bring more harm than good.

4. Food and water

Of course, your traveling experience will turn out to be a catastrophe if you forget to take food and water for your kitty. Many people forget about essentials when they pack the bags. Thus, this point is a must even if you believe that you will grab some food on the way. You need some supply of food, water, and maybe some goodies. Thus, you will be ready for unforeseen circumstances and not make your cat get stressed and suffer from an upset stomach because of a sudden diet change.

5. Leash and harness

Cats easily get scared, and it can be hard to keep a firm grip on, so putting a leash and harness on your feline friend may become a safety ring. Your kitty will neither run away suddenly nor get lost. Besides, it will be easier to control it and walk together. Just be sure to use a harness instead of a collar in such a case since the latter can injure your furry buddy’s neck.

Can’t travel? Escape reality and get away with these Sci-Fi books

April 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Let’s face it. 2020 has been a rough year. There’s no shortage of people looking for a way to escape into their imaginations in the face of such disarray on the global stage.

If you count yourself among them, a great science fiction book might be the answer. A genre that has continuously examined and predicted the progress of human civilization; it’s the perfect form of art to escape into parallel universes or alternative realities that are similar yet different to our own. Good science fiction has readers inhabit a compelling and utterly convincing fictional world that can have a cathartic effect for many reasons.

travel booking concept, tours, hotels and tickets online reservation

If we’re honest with ourselves, exploring the fake problems of fictional worlds can be more relaxing than dealing with the very real and daunting problems that are presented to us day in and day out by the media. Let’s explore a few of the most memorable and transporting sci-fi books to replace our pressing day-to-day problems with some fictional ones. After reading one, you might just be able to come back to reality with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of purpose.

Wanna Get Away? Escape 2020 Reality with These Transporting Sci-Fi Books

Ender’s Game

Ender’s Game is a 1985 novel written by Orson Scott Card that follows a teenage boy named Ender that is handpicked to participate in an intergalactic military training camp. Ender captured the minds of young people and adults alike because of the coming-of-age story is told about a well-intentioned yet imperfect hero that finds himself being used and manipulated by an unforgiving, violent world.

The book is set in a future version of Earth in which human civilization faces an impending invasion of an alien species. The brightest military minds convene to vet and train the next generation of military geniuses that will be needed to fight off the alien species. Ender is one of the most promising recruits.

Throughout his training, Ender is forced to come to terms with the dread of an impending invasion and to navigate the tricky social politics of fellow recruits. Ender shines as an up-and-upcoming military mastermind, but all is not as it seems. Throughout his journey, Ender peels back one layer of illusion after another until making contact with the reality of his position in this volatile world at the end of the book.

It has become a science fiction classic that was adapted into a movie in 2013. It’s a great book that will allow readers to engage with social, strategic, and civilizational problems in its fictional world. The novel even made the list of best science fiction books from Cool Things Chicago.

Dune

Dune is a science fiction novel written by Frank Herbert in 1965. The novel is set in a distant foreign galaxy for many years in the future. In the enchanting world that the novel takes place, the galaxy is ruled by a number of royal families.

The novel follows its main character Paul Atreides, a young member of a royal family that has accepted the responsibility of ruling a planet called Arrakis. Arrakis is a desert-like, barren planet that proves to be a primitive and unforgiving environment. However, it contains a vitally important natural resource called melange, or “spice” as it’s regularly referred to in the novel.

Melange is the most valuable resource in the fictional Dune universe because it enables navigation in space as well as other mysterious abilities in users that consume it as a drug. The nature of dust, as well as the abilities it provides, becomes more clear through the story of Paul Atreides and his rulership over Arrakis.

Dune is a terrific book that explores themes around politics, environmentalism, and religion. It continues to find an audience of new readers even today, as talked about in this piece from the New York Times.

The Handmaid’s Tale

The Handmaid’s Tale is a science fiction novel written by Margaret Atwood that is set in the United States after a future totalitarian takeover of the country orchestrated by a fanatical religious group. Infertility has become a widespread condition in this dystopian universe and has given rise to practices of ritualistic rape and impregnation by members of this totalitarian regime.

In response to a kind of moral panic that took hold after widespread infertility, a quasi-religious, fascist group takes power and proceeds the role back much of the moral progress and human rights enjoyed by the Western world. The group called the Sons of Jacob in the novel, strip women of their human rights and force them to live subjugated lives purely focused on bearing children. Fertile women are dubbed handmaids and are forced into lives of indentured servitude for rich families for which they bear children after being raped.

The book is a staunch and sober look at the fragility of moral progress and human rights that we take for granted and how easily they can be eroded in the face of crisis and fascism. It follows the life of handmaiden Offred as she navigates this dismal, masochistic world after being stripped of her rights and forced to be raped and bear children for powerful families. This piece by the Washington Post explores how the book, later adapted into a TV series, reflects or exaggerates existing patterns in our current civilization.

A Scanner Darkly

A Scanner Darkly is a semi-autobiographical novel written by renowned author Philip K. Dick. The book follows Bob Arctor, a drug addict that lives in a household of other addicts.

Arctor leads a double life. In secret, he is an undercover police agent that is attempting to crack down on illegal drugs. Through his undercover work, pretending to be a drug user, he becomes addicted to a drug called Substance D that is known for its dangerous qualities.

Arctor falls in love with Donna, a drug dealer and a fellow addict. Due to his addiction, Arctor’s superiors realized that he isn’t fit to continue his duties.

The book’s author, Philip K. Dick, is known to have struggled with drug addiction, and the story draws inspiration from some of his darkest moments. This piece by the LA Times explores Dick’s history and many of the themes that ultimately ended up in the book.

The Martian

The Martian is a science fiction novel written by Andy Weir that follows the life of an astronaut that is stranded on Mars after his entire crew is killed in an accident. Believed to be dead by all of the civilization after his long-range radio fails, the protagonist of the book is forced to come to terms with surviving in solitude on Mars.

The novel immerses the reader into the loneliness of being marooned on Mars but does so with surprising wit and a comedic narrative. The book is loved by many die-hard science fiction readers because of its accurate inclusion of real science. It’s a testament to Weir’s commitment to researching the science related to his story.

The novel features many more references to pop culture than is found in many science fiction books, and some readers may find they need to be up-to-date with the latest lifestyle narratives and pop culture trivia to truly enjoy its humor.

Hopefully, this list will offer some suggestions that will help readers transport themselves, if even for a few hours, away from their daily concerns and into a fictional world that is captivating and thought-provoking.

Nine summer Chicago activities for preschoolers

April 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

After a long Chicago winter, nothing is better than hearing chirping birds, smelling newy blooming flowers, and seeing green grass for the first time in months. Now is the time to end our annual Windy City hibernation and again head outside confident that summer is almost here.

Summer in Chicago can’t be beat. The weather is beautiful and there is so much to do. It is especially great for the parents of young kids. No longer confined indoors, parents (and grandparents and aunts and uncles and friends) of young kids can take their little ones exploring all over this amazing city.

While the simple act of walking down a Chicago street can keep a youngster fascinated for very long periods, A Second City summer provides plenty of kid-friendly places to visit and activities to do. Here are nine fun summer activities for preschoolers in Chicago.

Chicago activities for preschoolers:

1. Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is a classic kid-friendly locale. This zoo has been thrilling visitors of all ages for more than 130 years and it’s still free! The zoo is located on 35 acres right in the middle of the Lincoln Park neighborhood. It houses over 1,000 animals and has a wide array of exhibits to visit. So no matter what your child’s favorite members of the animal kingdom are it is very likely they can all be found here. You can check out such different areas as the African Journey, Arctic Tundra, Birds of Prey, Penguin Cove, Primate House, Birds of Prey, and Swan Pond. The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is specially created for little ones so make sure to hit that along the way.

2. Navy Pier

Few things you can do feel more “Chicago” than taking a trip to Navy Pier in the summer. Just strolling down the pier that juts out into Lake Michigan is quite stimulating for kids and, if you want a little more fun, you can take them on a ride around the famous Centennial Ferris Wheel. Bbe on the lookout for the free public events Navy Pier hosts throughout the summer such as free movies on their large, outdoor screen. These activities are great on your wallet and a true Chicago experience.

3. Chicago Children’s Museum

While you are at Navy Pier, if you want a little extra brain stimulation for your preschooler, you both will absolutely love the Chicago Children’s Museum. This museum, designed specifically for kids, encourages hands-on, creative play. For almost 40 years, the museum has provided a place that stimulates kids’ imaginations while teaching them about art, science, math, technology, and more. It is truly a special place that the kids of Chicago are lucky to have so close by.

4. Millennium Park

On a sweltering summer day in Chicago, take your preschooler to Millennium Park to cool down. Crown Fountain, with its shallow pool and water-spouting art feature, is a great place to let your child splash around in the middle of the city. When you’ve beat the heat, you can walk over to the iconic Chicago landmark, The Bean (officially known as Cloud Gate), or to the Lurie Garden with its self-guided scavenger hunt that you and your kids can do together.

5. Maggie Daley Park

A short walk over a bridge from Millennium Park is probably the best park for kids in the entire city. Maggie Daley Park was built in 2014 and offers children of all ages some amazing play options. The rock climbing walls and mini-golf course will be fun as your kids get older, but plenty of other options welcome preschoolers. The park has six distinct play areas; The Wave Lawn, The Harbor, The Watering Hole, The Slide Crater, The Enchanted Forest, and The Sea. Exploring them all and seeing which your child likes best can easily occupy several hours. Chances are, though, they will love them all.

6. Margie’s Candies

You actually might want to hit Margie’s right before you go to Maggie’s so your preschooler can work off some of the sugar high they’ll get at this Chicago treasure. Your kids won’t likely be impressed that the original Bucktown location was a favorite haunt of Al Capone or was once taken over by the Beatles after they played Comiskey Park, but they absolutely will be impressed when they see their first Atomic Sundae. This giant ice cream monstrosity is every kid’s dream and to a little kid, it will seem even more enormous than it already is.

7. Shedd Aquarium

If your preschooler liked checking out the land-based animals at Lincoln Park Zoo, they’ll love taking a tour beneath the sea at the Shedd Aquarium. Here they will find aquatic creatures from all around the world. There are big fish, little fish, colorful fish, scary fish, funny fish, and puffins!. If they are really into this underwater world, you can take them on the shark feeding tour or give them a chance to get in a tank with some stingrays.

8. White Sox Family Sunday

Even though preschoolers are probably a bit too young to sit through a whole baseball game, you can still take in a summer baseball game on the South Side on a Sunday. The White Sox have special Family Sunday games throughout the season with specially priced tickets and activities for the kids. Children even get an opportunity to get on the field and run the bases. It is a great way to solidify your child’s love of Chicago sports at a young age.

9. The 606 Trail

Take your kids on an urban hike down this converted elevated train line. There are art installations and plenty of things to look at along the way. The best part is the several playgrounds below in different spots so if your preschooler gets bored, you can hop off the trail and spend some time climbing, swinging, and sliding. It is a great place to get outside in the summer to let your kids stretch their legs and burn off some energy.

Author Bio

Sandra Chiu works as Director at LadyBug & Friends Daycare and Preschool.

Everything you need to know about traveling with CBD

April 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

CBD is now available in everything from coffee to bath bombs, lotions, and even CBD oil dog treats. It is an emerging and flourishing topic in the health and wellness space. Many travelers are confused about its legality, especially when taking such products on a flight or traveling internationally.

Traveling with CBD:

Though travel may be restricted now, people will want to take the CBD-infused items with them before getting on that plane once things start opening up. Here are a few things that everyone should know about while traveling with CBD.

First, let’s look into what CBD is. It is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis – it is derived from the hemp plant, not marijuana. It contains only a small amount (less than 0.3 percent) of THC, which is the psychoactive compound that makes users feel “high.” Such trace amounts of THC do not produce any noticeable intoxicating side-effects.

Thanks to many laws being passed, hemp and hemp-derived products, such as CBD oil, are now legal. However, the CBD must be hemp-derived, which is different from being derived from the marijuana plant. Marijuana and hemp belong to the same species of plants. However, they are different- with hemp being usually described as non-intoxicating cannabis for industrial use of the products derived from it.

Since hemp-derived CBD is hundred percent legal in the United States, law-enforcement shouldn’t give anyone a hard time traveling with CBD. Hemp also comes in a form that looks very much like cannabis, which can pose a problem if you are stopped by the police, who may choose to detain you until they can ensure that it is hemp and not marijuana. Fortunately, CBD can now be found in many different things such as gummy’s, sodas, chocolates, conditioners, moisturizers, shampoos, capsules, tinctures, etc.

First, let’s talk about traveling with CBD oil domestically. The type of CBD that comes from hemp oil is legal at the federal level and is therefore allowed to be taken across state borders and flights. The CBD derived from marijuana is still illegal in some states, so it is recommended that you look into the state‘s laws while traveling across state borders.

You can differentiate between the two types of CBD by reading the product label to identify the amount of THC it contains. The only hemp-derived CBD oils with no more than 0.3 percent of THC levels are legal to fly with, so make sure you check that.

Because the origins of a specific product and its THC levels can sometimes be challenging to ascertain, many states are still reluctant to legalize CBD. In Texas, for example, any CBD product with a THC level greater than 0.0 percent remains illegal unless it has been prescribed or recommended by a qualified doctor to treat epilepsy. In that case, a patient could be given a product that contains no more than 0.5 percent THC.

The Food and drug administration (FDA) has also added another level of restriction to the legality of CBD. According to the FDA, CBD is not allowed to be added to food, cosmetic products, beverages, or supplements. For this reason, many states – even where marijuana products have been made legal for recreational use – have decided to ban CBD as a food additive.

CBD’s legality is tricky because of rapidly shifting regulations and confusion surrounding the difference between hemp and marijuana. Because of this, there are often different opinions and a disconnect amongst law enforcement officials.

CBD helps travelers relax as it reduces stress and anxiety and is also known to help with jetlag. Daily CBD Mag has a helpful article about CBD oil.

As long as it is clearly labeled, it should not be a problem to keep it in your carry-on while flying. It is still recommended that you don’t take CBD products that resemble and look like marijuana, as it could prolong your security check and add unnecessary stress to your trip.

International regulations and rules on CBD are, of course, more complicated if your itinerary includes multiple destinations. It is of the utmost importance to research the country’s laws that you’re traveling to while traveling abroad. Many countries have much stricter drug lawyers, and professionals strongly advise playing it safe and leaving products with any cannabinoids at home if you are unsure of the laws.

Regulations for CBD oil when it comes to cruises are also varied. Some cruise lines ban it together, so the best option would be to contact the cruise line directly in such a case. Do not forget that there are security scanners as you board a cruise ship, so don’t try to hide your CBD products.

CBD oil offers many benefits for travelers, mostly as it regulates the body‘s immune system, organs, and neurotransmitter systems, helping with traveling symptoms like sleeplessness and tiredness, amongst others. It is especially recommended for long flights to decrease soreness and stiffness, help regulate sleep patterns with the time change, and help reduce anxieties known to affect people while in the air. Kyro has a helpful article where you can read more about CBD oil.

The regulations are so new that some TSA agents might not yet be familiar with the products, which could lead to some delays in your travel plans. However, more agents are being briefed on new regulations, so as long as you have taken the necessary precautions, it shouldn’t be a problem.

Needless to say, though, you should take the required cautionary steps and check the CBD oil possession laws of both the state/country you are traveling to and the state/country you’re traveling from. It is also recommended that you print out the product lab report and have it available if you are needed to verify the cannabinoid content to any enquiring authorities. And of course, if you’re traveling with CBD products as a medication, you should always keep the prescription handy just like you would with any other prescribed medicine.