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5 Winter Activities in Niagara Falls Your Kids Will Love

February 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

When you tell someone you’re taking a winter vacation to Niagara Falls most people might look at you like you’re crazy. It’s winter! Why not somewhere warm like Florida, Hawaii, or the Caribbean?

The fact is that winter is one of the best times to visit Niagara Falls. Not only is the entire area a sparkly, winter wonderland but because it’s off-season you’ll save money on everything, including your Niagara Falls hotel, and that also means fewer crowds at your favorite attractions.

If you like the idea of saving money and a vacation the whole family will love, these are five winter activities that you kids will love, and parents are going to have a great time too.

1. Journey Behind the Falls

Another year-round attraction that might even be better in the winter is the Journey Behind the Falls tour. This tour gives you opportunity to see the falls from behind and below and prices are reduced during the winter because the lower observation deck is too icy.

However, that doesn’t mean that you won’t enjoy the view of from the upper deck. In some cases the falls themselves might freeze and seeing that from this unique vantage point is an experience you won’t soon forget. Just don’t forget to bundle up and wear sturdy boots, and a waterproof camera might be a good idea as well.

2. The Butterfly Conservatory

Another incredible Niagara attraction that is open all year is the world famous Butterfly Conservatory. Part of the Niagara Parks system, the conservatory is home to over 2,000 butterflies in a special, indoor, climate-controlled environment.

Several paths wind through the conservatory and you’re free to wander amongst the tropical plants and flowers that the butterflies call home. Be sure to bring your camera because you won’t want to miss it when one of these colorful creatures decides to land on your child’s head or hand. But do remember to remind your children that touching the butterflies can injure them and is strictly against the rules.

3. Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

Just because it’s snowy and icy outside doesn’t mean your kids can’t enjoy a day of fun in the water. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is open all year and offers slides, pools, and other activities for kids of all ages and swimming abilities.

A cafe is onsite for drinks and snacks and there’s even a hot tub for the adults. So when your naysayer friends ask again why you’re going to Niagara during the winter just remind them that you’ve packed a swimsuit for your day at the indoor waterpark.

4. The Winter Festival of Lights

One of the most extensive and beautiful light displays anywhere in the world, the Niagara Winter Festival of Lights takes place from November 19, 2016 to January 31, 2017. Eight kilometers of tracks and trails are illuminated with sparkly lights in the trees and light displays such as the largest illuminated Canadian/American flag in the world.

Fireworks displays take place weekly and you can check the dates here. The falls themselves are illuminated as is the Toronto Power Generating Station which also includes a sound and light show. This is one of Niagara’s most popular winter attractions and you don’t want to miss it.

5. Clifton Hill

While Clifton Hill and its attractions are definitely more popular in the spring and summer months, many people don’t know that most of the complex is indoors. In fact, the only attraction that is outdoors is the Dinosaur mini golf. So you can let your kids play all the arcade games they want without even having to wear a jacket. The famous Sky Wheel even heats the booths during the winter so you can get a bird’s eye view of Niagara Falls and still stay toasty warm.

The Clifton Hill Fun Pass is the best way to maximize your time and save money. It includes two Sky Wheel Rides, a round of mini golf on the Wizard course, entry to the wax museum, a 4D theater experience, and more. Clifton Hill is a great place to stay warm and have fun with the whole family.

Winter vacations don’t always have to be about beaches and sunshine. Sometimes a wintery destination is not only going to save you money but also be incredibly fun and exciting. So pack up your kids and your swimsuits for a winter trip to Niagara Falls that you’ll never forget.

Yosemite National Park travel tips: best tours, hikes, and advice

February 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring the Yosemite area, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the national park system, and for good reason. Its stunning geological features, wildlife, and rich history make it ideal for an outdoors family vacation. This park has so much to offer, the following Yosemite National Park travel tips and touring advice are meant to supplement further research. Start with the official Yosemite National Park site to plan your trip, make sure activities and sites are open, and plan your lodging options! For touring advice and tips primarily for Yosemite’s Valley Floor region, read on.

Note: if you’re considering the Majestic Mountain Loop of three parks in one trip, start by viewing our Guide to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

When to go:

Yosemite is open and active year round! While the vast majority of visitors arrive in the summer (of course), more is open during the off-season than many families realize. During fall and spring, some hikes and roads may be closed, but the majority are still at your disposal. Ditto for visitors centers and museums (just check seasonal hours). Winter is a wonderful time to stay on the valley floor without the crowds; families can easily rent snowshoes or Nordic skis to explore the area. If you must go in summer, don’t worry: the park is still very accessible with crowds. Plan to base your car in one location (ideally your lodging within the park) and take the free inter-park shuttle everywhere you need to go. We tried this out during a busy week in July (the peak of the busy season) and never waited more than five minutes for a shuttle bus. Busses run between campgrounds, lodges, visitors centers and hiking trailheads.

What to do on the valley floor:

Obviously, there’s too much to do in Yosemite to put into one post! The Tuolumne Meadows and Wawona regions are well-worth visits; however, if your family is new to the park, and you have at least three days, devote one morning to a Valley Floor Tour. This tour–conducted on motor coach in the off-season and open-air tram in the summer–offers a wonderful overview of the valley. If possible, ask for tour guide Bill: his knowledge is unparalleled, and he’s entertaining throughout! I loved that Bill described his tour as a ‘portal’ tour: he considered every major subject he addressed as merely a ‘portal’ to learning more (then gave the resources needed for those who wanted to dig deeper). Our Valley Floor Tour covered Yosemite Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Tunnel View, Swinging Bridge, and Sentinel Rock, Cathedral rocks, and El Capitan. The bus stopped frequently, with plenty of photo ops. Because tours don’t stop for hiking, swimming, and the like, this is a good opportunity to note the areas you’d like to come back to on your own.

Lodging:

Where to stay in Yosemite National Park is as varied as individual family itineraries! For easiest access to the shuttle buses and to be within walking distance to the most sights, I’d opt for Yosemite Lodge or Camp Curry (be sure to reserve both well ahead of time). For families who may wish to divide their attention between Valley Floor activities and backcountry, many lodging options are located just outside the park.

Hiking:

Yosemite Falls: One of the easiest hikes to access from the valley floor, Yosemite Falls offers a very short hike to the lower falls, or a much more strenuous hike (3.8 miles one way) to Upper Yosemite Falls. Plan to spend the better part of the day if you tackle the latter! End your hike with a treat at the Food Court of Yosemite Lodge at the Falls.

Mist Trail: If you only do one hike in Yosemite, this should be it. But bear in mind that it will get very crowded in summer. Go early in the morning, or just before evening to beat the crowds (and heat). Enjoy the mist off Nevada and Vernal Falls as you make the short but very steep climb. If you’re up for more, this is the access point to hiking all the way to Half Dome to climb the backside using the cable system.

Note: permits are required for the Half Dome climb. You don’t need to be a rock climber, but you do have to be comfortable with heights and tall enough to hold the cables. If you’re not up for it, but do want a long hike, continue past the falls to Little Yosemite Camp, where you can watch the cable climbers.

Glacier Point to Valley Floor: This is another hike for the hearty! Use the free shuttle system so you only have to go one-way! Because you are directly across from Yosemite falls, you get a great perspective since you start above the falls, and see it at every height as you descend to the valley floor. If the kids are up for it, bribe them with a promise of ice cream at Yosemite Village and keep trekking across the valley floor.

Our review of family backcountry hiking and backpacking in Yosemite.

Museums, programs, and visitors centers:

A trip to the Yosemite Village Visitor Center and museum is absolutely worth your time. Kids (and adults) learn about geography and wildlife in the center, then can tour an outdoor Miwok village at the attached museum. We also loved the baskets on display, and during the summer months, Native American artisans are on-hand to show you their techniques. The village center also has stores, restaurants, and the like.

For winter activities and snow play, start at Yosemite lodging, such as Yosemite Lodge or Camp Curry. Both locations will have sleds to purchase and snowshoes to rent. Camp Curry has an ice-skating rink (tickets can be bought at either lodge). Guided nordic skiing tours to Glacier Point depart regularly in winter. In fall, be sure to ask about the Swinging Bridge Ladybuy Hatch. This amazing event takes place annually on the Swinging Bridge in the valley, when hundreds of thousands of ladybugs hatch. An amazing sight, and one guests can only see in autumn.

Park programs and nature walks are available year-round at Yosemite! Definitely sign up for one of the park’s watercolor classes, Junior Ranger programs, or, my current favorite: the Night Prowl. Led by a naturalist, the Night Prowl takes visitors on wooded trails by moonlight, which chances to see or hear nocturnal animals. Even if you don’t see animals, guides do a great job of relaying interesting information and conducting fun group exercises to help you adjust to the dark and understand your surroundings. This program is ideal for school-aged kids, and is a deal at only $5.50 per person.

Tip: Did you know park rangers are not the only naturalists leading guided tours and programs in Yosemite National Park? The park’s chief concessionaire also employs naturalists to lead excursions, often filling the gap left by budget cuts. These services are available to book from park lodging!

Guide to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids

February 16, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve been hearing the word ‘Iceland’ related to ‘family travel’ for a few years now. Families can have a great adventure in Iceland during the warm months (in fact, stay tuned for a guide to camping in Iceland with kids), but many people are still reluctant to try visiting Iceland in the winter with kids. It’s a great time to visit, and if you read on, I’m going to guide you through your worries and reservations so you can take advantage of visiting during this time of year.

Advantages to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids:

Fewer crowds
Cheaper
Better chance of seeing Northern Lights
Museums and sights are open year round
The hot spots/tubs/pools are a big hit in the colder weather!

Why take kids to Iceland?

Iceland is very kid-friendly with lots of museums, exhibits and sights that kids would enjoy.
If your kids enjoy swimming, they will love visiting the many, many hot spots Iceland has to offer.
Icelandic tradition is steeped in elves and trolls, making it a fun fantasy land for kids with active imaginations.
It’s a great introduction to international travel because everyone speaks English as well as Icelandic, they drive on the right hand side of the road, and the money is in Icelandic kroners but easy to figure out. Just international enough to make it exciting!

Our concerns about winter travel with kids in Iceland:

Shortened daylight hours—We visited in early January when the sunrise was at 11:30 and sunset was 3:30. But it actually gets light around 10:30 and doesn’t get dark until 4:30. Keeping the kids on east coast time, they went to bed late and slept in late, so it worked out fine. (See ”daily schedule” below.)
Weather—No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, you have to be conscious of changes in the weather and adapt your plans accordingly. The days were around 40 degrees with very little change at night. It snowed lightly some days, but nothing that made travel difficult. On a few occasions, the wind made being outside too cold. All in all, being used to cold winter weather, as long as the kids were dressed appropriately (and adults!), we were fine. (See “clothing” below.)

What to see and do along the Golden Circle:

We started out by staying in Laugarvatn, along the Golden Circle about two hours from the airport in Keflavik. We stayed at Efstidalur II, a working cattle ranch. This farm hotel is in an excellent location to explore all the sights of the Golden Circle. They serve breakfast and dinner (not included in $140 room rate for a double) and have a wonderful ice cream parlor downstairs.

From this hotel, we could easily access Geysir, home of the famous Geysir and Stokkur geysers. This is a short walk along a path. It is a bit touristy, but a must. There is a café, restaurant and gift shop. It’s also close to Gulfoss, home of Iceland’s most famous double waterfall, Golden Falls. This can be reached by walking along a path along the top of the ridge as well as down to the bottom of the falls. This location is not to be missed.

Pingvellir National Park is Iceland’s most important historical site where the Vikings established the first democratic parliament. It is also where the North American and Eurasian techtonic plates meet causing a huge fissure. There are many paths into the park from several parking areas. You can visit amazing waterfalls as well as walk along the giant fissure to a visitor center. Near Pingvellir is Fakasel Icelandic Horse Park. We did not go here, but it was recommended to us by locals. You can take a barn tour and see an evening show.

Hot springs to visit in the Golden Circle area:

Gamia Laugin (Secret Lagoon) in Fludir. This was wonderful. Bus tours visit here, so you need to come either before 3:30 or after 5:30. You can email them and request a time that is not during their tour hours to guarantee you get in. This pool is in beautiful rustic outdoor setting but with modern shower facilities and towel rentals. Kids loved floating around on the noodles provided and diving down for smooth stones along the bottom. Water was almost too hot for the kids for very long.

Fontano geothermal pool in Laugarvatn. This is a more modern facility with several man-made pools, hot tubs and shallow wading pools. It is also next to a lake you can go into (cold!) and then return to a hot pool. Kids loved this one too because they could play in the shallow water and not get so hot!

What we saw along the Ring Road south of Reykjavik:

Just beyond Selfoss, the Ring Road becomes very interesting with lots of green houses and Icelandic horses. After Hella there is flood zone that was covered in muddy lava fromt ohe 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajokull.

Seljalandsfoss waterfalls—this is a roadside pull out with paths (icy!) to several impressive waterfalls. There were restrooms but no food service. Lots of jagged cave entrances and rock outcroppings.
Skogafoss waterfall—another road side stop with a path to the top of a huge waterfall. There is a restaurant here.
Just beyond this in Skogar is the Skogar Folk Museum that we did not have time for, but sounded like it would be fun for kids.
We did not make it as far as Vik, but would have liked to have seen its beach.

Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon:

There’s so much to do in this part of Iceland in winter! Start with the Blue Lagoon: since this is the most famous of all the geothermal pools in Iceland, we had to visit! You need to make and pay for reservations in advance on line. You sign up for a day and time. We almost missed our time, but it would have been okay if we were a little late. This is pricey and very touristy, but it is also pretty amazing. It’s a huge lake, basically, with swim up bars. It gets quite deep and kids have to wear water wings, no matter what their swimming ability, to go out into the deeper water. Our kids did NOT like this rule at all and I wish I had been able to prepare them for it. There is a snack bar but other than a really fancy restaurant, no regular café-type food.

There is a lot to see and do with kids in Reykjavik in the winter. If you are staying in the city center or old town, it is easy to walk everywhere. When booking your accommodations, make sure you are not on a busy street. The bars and pubs stay open all hours and are noisy at night Book a walking tour. We booked a walking tour with “Your Friend in Reykjavik”. Read about them on line or on TripAdvisor. It was just the six of us and our tour guide adapted the tour so the kids would have fun as well. On their recommendation, we booked it on a Saturday so we could visit the Saturday Flea Market. It was a two-hour tour through Old Town, the harbor, the city center, flea market and the town lake, Tjornin, where we fed ducks. This family run company was also very helpful before we even got to Iceland, with lots of insider recommendations and suggestions. Here are a few Reykjavik highlights:

Saga Museum—This is a wax museum where you where a set a headphones and are guided through the museum listening to Viking history. It is a bit graphic and our 6 year old wasn’t crazy about it, but it was fun for the rest of us. It has a kid play area where you can dress up. It is in the harbor area. The museum has a fancy restaurant, but there are several cafes long the harbor.

Settlement Exhibition—This museum is built around the excavation of an ancient Viking long house. It is underground and has lots of very cool computer generated effects. There is also a really nice kids area with dress up, games, coloring sheets and a Viking set up. Highly recommended.

Hallgrimskirkja church elevator—take the elevator up to the top of this iconic church to get some great views.

Open Air Museum (Arbaer)—this was only open during the week for 2:00 tours, and our weather didn’t really cooperate but it would be a great place to take kids if it were nice outside.

National Museum—we did not take the kids to this, but it has very well organized displays and there were lots of kids in the museum. It has a separate head set program for kids.

The Laundromat Café—this is a great family restaurant with a downstairs play area for kids. We ate here four different times! It’s just minutes from Old Reykjavik along the main shopping street of Laugavegur.

Laugardalslaug swim complex—We had to drive to this, but it was only about 10 minutes. This is a huge complex that has several full size pools and a lot of smaller hot tubs around it. The kids loved it because it had a twisty slide you could go down.

Up next, packing advice and practical tips for visiting Iceland in winter with kids! Click on the button below to continue.

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Seven destinations for family biking vacations

February 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Introducing your children to an active lifestyle has become more challenging with skyrocketing technological innovations. During family biking vacations, kids can quickly develop poor fitness and eating habits that lead to chronic diseases later in life without consistent physical activity. Limiting your child’s screen time to roughly two hours per day and encouraging spending time outdoors can significantly impact their mental and physical well being.

Guide your family through health-based lifestyle changes by speaking to them about the importance of physical activity and maintaining a health and fitness routine yourself. If your children are less than enthusiastic about routine workouts and dietary additions, enroll them in an exciting sport or plan an exercise-centered vacation to get them in the spirit.

In particular, biking trips are an excellent way to prevent your family from becoming sedentary couch potatoes while strengthening your bond and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Traversing unfamiliar locations at your own pace sans tour group is an engaging, fulfilling way to explore the world around you.

Before you embark on a cycling adventure, you’ll need to prepare your bikes for transportation. Investing in a durable rack is crucial when lugging your beloved two-wheeler across the country. If you want to forgo the frame, carefully secure your bike with self-gripping straps to ensure safe, stress-free travels. Now that you’re ready to embark on a new adventure, examine the best cycle-friendly destinations and head out for the family trip you won’t soon forget.

Choosing a bike for your youngster

Before you land on the perfect destination, equip your youngsters with a sturdy, well-made bike. Parents should choose models that are lightweight and easy to maneuver, like those with aluminum frames. Determine which tire size works for your child, as the wrong measurements can result in discomfort and loss of control. If your children are toddlers, a 12-inch model should do the trick. For older kids aged six to ten, a 20-inch bike should do the trick.

Discovery Trail, Washington

Discovery trail in Washington is a scenic route, comfortable for all ages. Landing at 8.5 miles, riders will cut through sand dunes and meander along rolling curves. Awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean offer a diverse landscape, and 20-foot trees will make your family feel like forest wanderers.

Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike Trail, Kentucky

This green park features beautiful paved trails, swimming holes, and 365 miles of underground caves. Your family will jump at the chance to explore the grounds between cycling sessions, and the covered pathways are ideal for beginner bikers.

Shining Sea Bikeway, Massachusetts

Shining sea bikeway sits alongside Cape Cod’s peaceful shoreline. Sailing along the ocean on an established pathway will allow your family to relax as you glide by the sweet serenade of the sea. As you traverse the sandy beaches, look out for wildlife and curious otters and snap a photo for long-lasting memories.

Shark Valley Trail, Florida

At Shark Valley train in Florida, your children will beam at the opportunity to bike amongst mighty gators. Cycle through the gorgeous Everglades and safely travel past dozens of gators for a thrill of a lifetime. The vibrant green ecosystem and warm weather make for an unforgettable getaway and easy-going bike ride.

Mid-Mountain Trail, Utah

Located in the mountainous Park City, Utah, this trail is ideal for families looking to push their endurance and improve their cycling skills. Twenty-five miles of trail steadily climbs to mountain peaks, connecting three iconic ski resorts. This quintessential track is beloved by locals and biking tourists alike, often names one of the best in the country.

Memorial Park Trails, Texas

These Houston trails allow you to explore the park at your own pace. Although some routes are more explored than others, your kids will likely come across countless friendly tikes on bikes. Other trails, like Little Cambodia, feature a more challenging terrain and separation, creating an intimate, private biking experience.

Teaching your kids healthy habits starts by getting them excited about exercise. Biking vacations allow your children to enjoy physical activity while becoming a tradition your family looks forward to all year long.

Fun and simple ways to celebrate Mardi Gras at home

February 11, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much of how we live our lives and continues to affect the world in countless ways, forcing many people indoors and triggering the cancellation of some of our favorite events, as well.

For instance, it was recently announced that Mardi Gras would not be running as normal in New Orleans, bringing great sadness to so many people who adore the fun and excitement of this colorful, eclectic celebration.

Families who were planning to attend the week-long carnival and enjoy the parades, parties, and entertainment together will be sorely disappointed, but there is a logic behind the cancellation, and it should help to reduce the spread of the virus, saving lives and protecting the vulnerable.

We can hope to enjoy the real Mardi Gras in full swing in future years, but in the meantime, it’s been inspiring to see how people have responded, with New Orleans locals turning their homes into decorative floats and people around the world choosing to celebrate at home instead.

Go Virtual

Since COVID-19 started to spread and people began to spend more time indoors, virtual events and activities have started to become increasingly popular. We’ve seen virtual zoo tours, virtual museum visits, virtual concerts, and now you and your family can get ready for a virtual Marid Gras fun time too.

There are quite a few of these virtual Mardi Gras celebrations planned. Kota Hotb is running an online behind-the-scenes look at Carnival, for example, and there are also interactive, explorable maps of the city so you can virtually roam around and see all the decorations.

Make Your Own Masks and Outfits

If you have any kids of any age at home or just want to let your own inner child have some fun, why not make your own crazy carnival outfits and dress up in honor of this special celebration? After all, the colorful outfits and masks are a big part of what makes Mardi Gras so special, and no party can quite feel right without them.

You can stock up on crafts and supplies to make your own masks and outfits. Of course, you could also purchase pre-made ones, but it can be a lot of fun to create your own, especially when you get the kids involved and let your imaginations run wild together.

You can also buy ready-made plain costumes such as long, flowing cloaks and capes and jazz them up with colorful, sparkly, and flowery decorations. It saves time while giving you and the kids the chance to unleash your creativity and imagination!

Decorate Your Home

Many New Orleans locals have proven that you can’t truly ever cancel Mardi Gras by decorating their homes to look like parade floats, with all kinds of fun colors, styles, themes, and designs, from magical Marvel Universe lands to Venetian balls.

Whether you’re a Louisiana local or someone living far away, you and your family can join in on the fun as well and decorate your own home. The best part is that there aren’t really any rules, which is one of the most exciting aspects of Mardi Gras, and you can choose any kind of style that makes you smile.

The Tastiest Treats

One of the best things about Mardi Gras is the food. It’s called ‘Fat Tuesday’, after all, so it’s only fitting that you should indulge in all of your favorite treats, snacks, and drinks during this exciting time of year, and there are many traditional dishes to try, with the King Cake being the most famous example.

You can bake your own King Cake in the famous shape of a crown and decorate it in the Carnival colors, or you can order one pre-made. You can also whip up some classic Louisiana dishes or New Orleans treats like fried seafood and po’boys.

Moving and Grooving

Of course, as well as food, outfits, parades, and decorations, one of the key aspects of any Mardi Gras celebration is the music. New Orleans is famed around the world for its musical associations and jazz clubs, and when Mardi Gras comes along, the city parties all night long, with instruments of all kinds sounding out throughout the streets.

You might not be able to make quite as much noise in the comfort of your own home, but it can really liven up the place to put on some authentic Louisiana tunes and have your very own dance party, moving and grooving with the kids in your masks and outfits.

A virtual or at-home Mardi Gras might not be quite the same as the real thing, but it can still be a wonderful celebration. Follow these tips and have the best and safest time for your own Fat Tuesday fun.

The Alamo, San Antonio Texas

December 10, 2020 By Sharlene Earnshaw

During a time when many vacations are not possible, road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring San Antonio, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

Ever heard the phrase “Remember the Alamo,” and thought to yourself that it was simply a crazy thing Texans say? Couldn’t possibly have any meaning? Allow me to take a moment to clear that one up and give you a great reason to visit!

During the Texas Revolution in 1836, the Mexican dictator, Santa Anna and his army held the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas under siege for more than a week. On March 6 1836, Santa Anna ordered about 1800 of his troops to attack the Alamo, which was defended by less than 200 men. Because of this loss at the Alamo, Texans came together and won their independence against Mexico a month later under the leadership of Sam Houston.

Today, the Alamo is Texas’ most famous shrine. It is a shock of history standing tall amongst the modern buildings in downtown San Antonio. But it is a beloved site and one that takes you right back into history. Learn all about the Alamo’s heroes, including Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, and Sam Houston. Hear from the survivors of the battle. And see actual artifacts from the week-long siege.

The complex, owned by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT) since 1906, offers free admission to the 4.2 acre complex which includes the Shrine, the Long Barrack Museum filled with artifacts from the battle, and a gift shop where you can grab your very own Davy Crockett coonskin hat.

Tip: To prepare kids before their visit, the Alamo website offers some great fun, like a History Hunt and games, for kids to enhance their experience.

Many times, you can find re-enactments occurring on the plaza outside the Alamo. It’s fun to show the kids how much work goes into shooting a rifle during that time period. If the history is too much for you, there is always a Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum right across the street!

And as a great addition to your visit to the Alamo, take in the IMAX’s Alamo The Price of Freedom: it’s a great movie telling the story of the Alamo on the big screen. My kids loved it! Want to read more Alamo tips? Read an additional Alamo post at RWeThereYetMom!

Closest interstate: Interstate 37/TX, Hwy 281

Cost of admission: Free

Dining: None. The Alamo is located in downtown San Antonio, where many dining options exist!

Where to stay:

San Antonio offers a wide variety of hotel accommodations, all of which must adhere to safety and cleanliness COVID response standards. Hotels in San Antonio which we recommend include La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk and The Westin Riverwalk, but as a general guideline, look for a downtown hotel that offers courtyard space and outdoor pools, so you can best enjoy the Texas weather and social distance safely.

Driving directions:

The Alamo is located at 300 Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio, Texas. From U.S. 281/Interstate 37 southbound, exit at Houston Street, turn right, and proceed three blocks to Avenue E, turn left and continue to the intersection of Houston and Alamo Plaza. From Interstate 37 northbound, exit at Commerce Street, turn left on Commerce and proceed ten blocks to Alamo Plaza, turn right and continue on one and one half blocks. Parking is available at several pay lots in the vicinity of the Alamo.

Photos courtesy of RWeThereYetMom.com.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we are partnering with Hotels.com to bring you this post on San Antonio and The Alamo.

Backcountry skiing basics: How to get into the sport

December 2, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

It’s never been a better time to get into the backcountry and leave the crowds behind! Here’s how to get into the sport during the COVID season!

An avid downhill skier and snowshoer, I’ve been noting the small but growing trend toward backcountry skiing for some time now. This sport, which combines a love of nordic exploration and downhill excitement, attracts men and women (and yes, some kids) who want to carve their own line down mountain terrain and explore the wilderness at the same time.

I got my first pair of backcountry skis in 2012, which were basically fat nordic skis with a three-pin binding. I found I could navigate single-track nordic trails with steep inclines much better than my nordic skier counterparts, and I was hooked. Today, all-terrain (or AT) ski gear is much more involved, but AT skiing is still a fairly diverse term. Just like the sport itself, it can mean something different to every enthusiast, from short hikes up to freshies from lift-accessed runs to full-day expeditions with beacons and probes.

In January, I was lucky enough to experience the sport in more depth, this time trying out top-of-the-line AT skis, boots, and bindings on a half-day, strenuous backcountry ski day in Utah’s Cottonwood Canyon near Solitude Mountain Resort.

I headed out with Utah Mountain Adventures after getting outfitted with Voile skis with Dynafit bindings and Scarpa AT boots. I carried a backpack with plenty of water, plus a shovel and avalanche probe. I strapped an avalanche beacon, provided by Utah Mountain Adventures, to my body.

The only way to get fresh powder runs was to climb uphill, so my first lesson was in putting on skins. Turns out, this is easy. The hard part is to climb upslope. We climbed for over two hours, stopping for a few breaks, skinning up a mountainside in the Wasatch Mountains. I’d like to say I enjoyed the whole experience, but in truth, by hour two, I was sweating enough to shed a layer and starting to feel hot spots (which turned into blisters) where my socks rubbed in my boots. I was told to loosen my AT boots for the uphill climb (there’s a walk mode and ski mode), and while I’m sure this is sound advice, it didn’t help on the blister front.

The whole uphill experience reminded me of hiking: there were periods of enjoyment while I took in breathtaking views and reveled in being in the wilderness in winter, but also periods during which I had to set tiny goals–get to the next tree, get to the next open slope–in order to carry on. In other words, it’s crucial to love the outdoors and the uphill ‘hiking’ process, or the joys of backcountry skiing may be lost on you.

Climbing in AT skis is not very difficult–it’s much like cross-country skiing–but there are moments when kick turns may be necessary to zig-zag along steep grades. Yes, there’s a learning curve to this, but here’s what I was told (and it helped): use as much of the flat plane of your ski base as possible. Staying on your edges, where you don’t have skins, won’t help you keep traction.

Once we’d summited a peak in Cottonwood Canyon, the fun began. We took off our skins, stowed them in our packs, and switched our boots and bindings to downhill mode. (Dynafit bindings are unique in that they transition from climbing mode, with the heel untethered, to downhill mode, with the heel locked down just like alpine skiing, with one twist of the back binding. They also feature ‘risers’ that can be raised while in climbing mode, which assist on steep ascents, much like going a gear lower on a bike. Yes, they’re nifty.)

We picked our line for the descent, and carved down the beautiful, light powder. Thanks to the efforts of our uphill hike, the terrain wasn’t skied out like it quickly becomes on lift-accessed terrain. I happily followed the lead of our guide, who knew the area and how to traverse through the glades and open slopes and still find our starting point back at base. Without him, I would have needed a GPS in unfamiliar territory.

Raised in the deep powder of Tahoe, skiing off-piste before I knew what that meant, I loved every second of the descent. Yes, it was challenging, but also very satisfying, knowing I’d earned my turns. I never needed my beacon, but was glad for the security it offered. Back at the base of the mountain, I switched my skis back to climb mode, and ‘cross-country skied’ my way back to the car on flat terrain. The sun was setting by the time we returned, and trust me, I’d earned my pizza and beer.

What you’ll need to get started in AT skiing:

AT or telemark skis (these are the skis I tried)
AT or telemark boots (the most comfortable seem to be Dynafit)
any ski poles
backpack
shovel, probe, and beacon
breathable outerwear
plenty of layers (wool is best)

Tips for beginners (like me):

I recommend going with a guide, like I did, your first time out (or any time out in an unfamiliar area). Most guide services can also rent AT skis and boots, which are expensive to buy yourself at first. More importantly, guides know where to go and are trained in avalanche safety (check to make sure!).

Any time out in the backcountry, everyone in your party should carry a beacon and shovel, at very least. I fell once during my trip, and lost one ski. It was deeply buried almost instantly, and had it been me, I would have been glad for my beacon, guiding others to me. Luckily, I found the ski without needing my shovel. If you go out without a guide, you should have completed an avalanche safety course. They are offered almost everywhere now, from gear stores to ski resorts.

If you haven’t explored winter terrain at all yet, start by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Hit trails you’re familiar with in the summer months; they’ll have a different feel in winter! Alternatively, try backcountry skiing from lift-accessed terrain. At any ski resort, look at a terrain map to see where off-piste (or non-groomed) terrain is located. Make sure it’s open the morning of your ski, and then climb only from the top of a lift (shortening your ‘hike’). Yes, others will have the same idea, so make this one of your first few runs of the day. Afterward, relax with some cruisers. Some resorts, such as Keystone Mountain in Colorado, even offer cat rides to off-piste terrain, allowing skiers to find fresh powder without AT gear.

Can kids AT ski? Sure, though it’s currently hard to find skis and boots to fit kids under age 12 or so. There’s a reason for this: AT skiing is a lot of work. My recommendation (that I’m following with my own kids): introduce the idea of backcountry exploration when kids are small, with snowshoe treks. Then, graduate to AT skiing when kids are teens. Make sure they’re expert skiers on groomed terrain, too.

Can snowboarders AT ‘ski’? Yes, Voile and other makers are now creating split snowboards, which split into two short ‘skis’ for the uphill climb, then come together to create a board for the downhill. It’s the coolest transformer yet!

I’ve heard the argument that AT skiing is popular because skiers can avoid the high cost of lift tickets. While this is true, and while I do think most lift ticket prices have gotten out-of-hand, I don’t think true AT ski lovers climb miles of terrain for this savings. It’s simply too much work to do it for any reason but a love of the outdoors and the sense of freedom. It’s a way to challenge oneself outside of the ski resorts, and well worth the effort of learning a new discipline within alpine skiing.

I toured the Wasatch with Utah Mountain Adventures at no cost, for the purpose of testing AT ski gear.

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

November 13, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring the outdoors near Joshua Tree, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

I love a guiding company that doesn’t ‘dumb down’ experiences for guests. Joshua Tree Excursions definitely doesn’t take the easy route, literally or figuratively. If you’re looking for day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, guide and owner Kelly Crawford is who to get to know. He challenged us during a five-hour hike through Joshua Tree National Park, during which we went off-trail to trek, scramble, and climb the park’s famous granite boulders. He allowed us to rise to the occasion during moments of challenge in the terrain, and gave us confidence that we could all do it. And we did.

Hiking off-trail in Joshua Tree National Park

The Joshua Tree Excursion experience starts when you book it, as Kelly prides himself in offering a fully customizable day or weekend. If you want a mellow hike through the park with a knowledgable guide, they can certainly do that, but they can also offer hikes that involve bouldering, climbing, or backpacking. Joshua Tree Excursions will even set up your entire camp for you (at a site in the park or in the backcountry) and can even provide all meals.

Most families will simply want a day of hiking off-trail, as day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park are short enough to be do-able. It’s is an excellent place for off-trail adventuring. Families experienced in backcountry hiking can certainly hike off-trail in Joshua Tree on their own, with the right navigational tools (and knowledge in using them). However, even though we’re familiar with all this, we’re not familiar with the desert landscape of Joshua Tree, so hiring Joshua Tree Excursions is a good solution.

Our trip off-trail started with our group of adults loading up in Kelly’s 4wd vehicle and entering the park. Anyone without day packs was provided one to use, along with plenty of water. Given the length of the hiking experience (ours was 5 hours) I do think it would be helpful to also have a few healthy snacks. We parked at the Barker Dam trailhead, and Kelly took some time to go over local geology, flora, and fauna.

Joshua Tree Excursions’ motto is ‘journeys, not destinations’, and we realized this concept was more than just a slogan right away, when we left the well-worn trail almost immediately. Kelly explained that we’d be hiking approximately five miles off-trail, in a large loop with time for shorter side excursions and exploration.

We hiked through sandy washes, weaved past beds of cacti (pausing to learn each variety’s name), and climbed over rocks and boulders. It was exactly the type of hiking my kids love, so I’ll definitely be heading back to Joshua Tree with them again. Usually, I am perfectly content to hike on the trail, but I must say, Kelly’s version was much more fun and exciting. I felt like a kid again as I jumped, scrambled, and explored.

We stopped often for mini-lessons on Joshua Tree (and to drink water), and to take photos. While we didn’t have a precise destination, we did hit upon some landmarks that were amazing to see, such as Garrett Arch, the ‘cube’ (a huge square-shaped rock), and the Wall Street Mine (abandoned historic stamp mill). At a few junctions, such as at Garrett Arch, there was an option to climb higher up (or wait below).

The level of difficulty was what I’d call intermediate, but others may call advanced. This is where the customized trip comes into play. When planning a trip with Joshua Tree Excursions, it’s important to explain not only what you hope to do, but your level of fitness and experience in the outdoors. Either way, I guarantee you can do more than you think you can!

We ended just before sunset and drove back to the Joshua Tree Excursions office below the park.

Pricing: Customized hiking trips usually start at $124 per person. Yes, this is a serious investment during your trip, but I believe it to be a worthwhile one. Kelly can provide families with an experience beyond what almost all can do themselves.

Lodging options nearby:

Lodging near Joshua Tree ranges from family-friendly roadside hotels to unique rentals to B&Bs. We have sampled quite a few options, all of which match the free-spirited nature of Joshua Tree, California itself. Within the park proper, car camping is beautiful as well, especially during the cooler months. In the heat of summer, you’ll probably want to find area lodging.

Don’t forget:

sunscreen
hats for everyone
sunglasses
water (more will be provided)
backpack (provided if you don’t have one)
long pants for hiking in (cacti hurt legs!)
snack such as a granola bar
a tip for your guide
trekking poles are a good idea if you’re not scrambling (but hiking)

Bonus stop: After your day with Kelly, be sure to go back up to the park entrance at dark for a Sky’s the Limit presentation of the night sky. Offered on Saturday nights and some additional (see list of dates), this non-profit observatory offers the most accurate orrery in the world (a orrery is a replica of the solar system laid out on the ground, with the sun in the middle and the planets in their paths around it, set to real time). This, and the nature path around it, can be enjoyed at any time during the day, but at night when open, the observatory also has volunteers on-hand to give a star presentation, complete with high-powered telescopes for viewing planets and stars.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we are partnering with Hotels.com to bring you this post on Joshua Tree.

Six kid-friendly tourist attractions to visit in Pigeon Forge

November 9, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Travel can be challenging right now. If you decide traveling is right for your family, be sure to social distance, wear masks, and quarantine upon your return.

If you’re ready to hit the road and take your family on an adventurer’s journey, here are six incredible kid-friendly tourist attractions to visit in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Ziplining through the Great Smoky Mountains

One of the best adventures your kids can enjoy in Pigeon Forge is a ziplining tour in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The adrenaline rush of swinging above the treetops on a hanging wire is pure exhilaration. Besides the fun and action-packed ziplining experience, your family can also discover the forest’s diverse wildlife, breathtaking streams, and indigenous flowering plants.

Fat Daddy Arcade

Fat Daddy Arcade is the real definition of having fun and building strong family bonds. Packed with all sorts of classical games and fun things like the milk jug toss, dueling basketball hoops, the Clown, Plinko, and more, this one’s always a hit with kids. This event offers you an opportunity to have fun with your family and still win big.

Take a Hike

There is no better way to spend a summer afternoon with the kids than to connect with Mother Nature. The beautiful and welcoming hiking trails provide the best kids adventure and what you need to enjoy a peaceful hike with your loved ones.

Furthermore, exploring new places and unlocking new experiences is an excellent way to stay active, spend quality time, and bond with your family. With some snacks and drinks, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the fascinating scenic routes in the Forge area.

Xtreme Racing Center

Your trip to the Forge area isn’t complete without the kids visiting the Xtreme center. The Xtreme center is dedicated to providing tourists with the ultimate Pigeon Forge go-kart excursion with various thrilling course alternatives. The track is also packed with exciting adventures, narrow straightaways, and winding turns. Your children will treasure and appreciate the time spent zooming around the sharp corners of the race tracks and competing for first place forever.

Watch the Island Show Fountain

The Island show fountain is a state-of-the-art presentation that showcases a beautiful water dance and light. The exhibition is carefully choreographed to a stunning fourteen pieces of music. Over 89 vertical nozzles cause movement and six motion-based nozzles also form detailed water sprays that dance to the music.

The Titanic Museum

How about giving your kids a bit of a history lesson? Visiting the Titanic museum is a pure eye-opener. You and your family will learn more about the titanic ship, its crew, and passengers. You will have an opportunity to walk your family through the inside and experience how it felt like to walk the cabins, hallways, grand staircases, and parlors. Visit the memorial room to discover the 2,208 names on the historic wall and let the kids connect with history.

Final word

Road tripping is indeed a one-of-the-kind adventure. Besides unlocking new experiences, road trips can improve family bonds. However, you should be aware of the mishaps that might occur when road tripping with your kids and figure out how to combat them. You may need to carry car spare parts and medicine in case of a car breakdown or if one of your family members gets car sick.

Planning a trip to Door County with kids

October 20, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

The moment I heard Door County, Wisconsin described as ‘the Cape Cod of the Midwest’, this family-friendly destination made perfect sense to me. Despite the fact that Lake Michigan served as the ‘ocean’ in this comparison, the description was spot-on. Door County, the narrow ‘thumb’-shaped peninsula of Wisconsin, is comprised of scenic shoreline, quaint villages, and rolling farmland. It’s Cape Cod with a Midwestern style that delights.

Door County is the perfect weekend or week-long escape for families with kids within a day’s drive. What you get: plenty of shoreline, ample boating and fishing opportunities, camping, biking and hiking, and dining galore. This is a vacation destination just waiting for you to make it your own, whether you’re looking for art and culture, R&R, or outdoor recreation.

What to do in Door County with kids:

In addition to the 53 public beaches along its 300 miles of shoreline and cherry picking in July or August (check out the tart cherry selection at Orchard Country Winery and Market), Door County offers a multitude of turn-key outdoor offerings. What do I mean by ‘turn-key’? Nothing is at ‘expert’ level, unless you count the fishing, which is indeed impressive. Instead, families have the opportunity to do a little of everything.

Take a trolley tour with Door County Trolley:

Door County Trolley www.doorcountytrolley.com should be your first stop. They offer a multitude of trolley tours of the area, but their narrated scenic tour started it all, and gives you a great overview of the area. It’s $18.95 for adults and $13.95 for kids, and or guide and driver was highly entertaining and fun. You’ll get an overview of the history of Door County and see the main views and highlights, which will help you know what you want to go back and see during the rest of your stay.

For the grown ups: they also have a Murder and Mayhem tour, which highlights all the places of past crime on the peninsula, and a wine, spirits and brews tour, which includes wine tastings at multiple stops.

Hiking and biking:

Head to the biggest and brightest of Door County’s five state parks, Peninsula State Park. Grab a hiking and biking map at the entrance, or, if you know you’ll want to bike, rent at the entrance to the park at Edge of the Park. You can ride the perimeter of the park on paved road (noting that there will be traffic in summer), or, if you have older kids eager to try their hand at some single track, take some of the interior trails (see the map for designated biking trails).

If you’re hiking, a good option is the two-mile Sentinel Trail in Peninsula State Park. There are a number of other trails at your disposal too, which are fairly short in length but can be done in tandem or looped for a longer mileage. There are also 12 preserves in Door County with hiking trails; it’s a very progressive county when it comes to land conservation. You won’t find the development that you encounter at destinations like the Wisconsin Dells, for instance.

We hiked for about an hour at The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor, a not-for-profit land sanctuary that aims to educate on land conservation efforts as much as it provides an opportunity for hiking. Start that the new and impressive visitor’s center at 8166 Highway 57, and opt for either a guided tour (multiple per day in the summer season) or a self-guided hike through the forests and swales (bodies of water). Either way, it’s $5 for adults and free for kids (up to age 18). The guided tour will be led by an enthusiastic member of the sanctuary, and I know that I personally learned a lot about the local ecology. That said, both the guided and self-led tour option includes a visit to the range lights (like lighthouses) with an interior tour. Combine as many of the mile or so loops as you’d like to create the hike for you. The first 1/3 mile from the visitor center to the ranger lights that mark the official start to the sanctuary is boardwalk, accessible for all.

Go cheese tasting:

Head to Wisconsin Cheese Masters and Door Artisan Cheese Company for samples of the best, then buy a few offerings to add to a picnic to enjoy on the lake or bay.

In Door County without the kids? Ask for the premium wine tasting flight at Harbor Ridge Winery, located adjacent to Wisconsin Cheese Masters. This boutique winery also offers a more basic tasting, but you’ll want to upgrade (on our visit, it was only a difference of a couple bucks). The difference: the premium tasting included cabs, pinot noirs and cab blancs made on-site from grapes curated from Walla Walla Washington and California. The more basic tasting included more sweet wines and fruit wines made from orchard fruits on-site. It depends on taste, but if you prefer a drier (grape) wine, you’ll want the premium.

Kayak the bay, lake or inland lakes:

Door County Kayak Tours is a locally-owned and operated kayaking company that’s always expanding to new outdoor pursuits. They offer several routes for kayaking around the Green Bay or lake side of the peninsula and are always flexible. When bad weather kept us from the lake, we re-routed (rather than needing to cancel) and enjoyed an exceptional paddle through the Mud Lake State Natural Area instead. A new perspective is had at water-level, and other tours operated by Gravity Trails offer views of shipwrecks in the lake, watery caves, and more.

Visit lighthouses:

Door County has an entire lighthouse trail of eleven lighthouses. The trolley company will show you around on their lighthouse tour, should you be so inclined, and several boat operations will show you lighthouses from the water, but you can also pick and choose favorites to see by car and on foot (or tractor…stay tuned for that story). It’s easy to see Eagle Buff lighthouse, since it’s located in Peninsula State Park, but Cana Island Lighthouse is a fan favorite because of its unique watery approach. Located in Baileys Harbor, Cana Island is indeed on its own tiny island. To get there, park at the parking area and cross the shallow causeway either by foot (wading in knee-deep water a matter of yards) or take the free tractor transportation (pulling a wagon you can ride in). Yes, it’s as fun and unique as it sounds. At the light, climb the steep steps (must be 36 inches) to the top for amazing views.

Where to eat in Door County with kids:

Breakfast at White Gull Inn: Don’t miss this stop. Operating in Fish Creek since the 1800s, White Gull Inn is a mainstay. Someone in your party must try the cherry stuffed French Toast (winner of Good Morning America’s Best Breakfast award), but everything else is equally wonderful. They also do a fish boil at this location, and though we tried a fish boil elsewhere, I’m told the White Gull Inn’s is comparable, with one exception (more on that in a minute).

Wilson’s Restaurant in Ephraim: Wilson’s has been in operation for the last 114 years, and its going strong. Located right on the water, you can expect long lines and waits here in summer, but in the shoulder season, it’s easy to get a table. They’re known for their ice cream and homemade root beer, but their burgers are amazing, too. Come for the food, but stay for the ambiance, which is still stuck in the 1950s. Alternative pick: if you just want ice cream, head to Door County Ice Cream Factory in the town general store (dating back to 1912).

The Cookery: If you want an inventive and interesting (and somewhat surprising menu), come to The Cookery in Fish Creek. Yes, they have traditional whitefish chowder (they’re known for it) and Door County cherry salad (everyone seems to have this in the Door), but they also have vegetarian grain bowls and very flavorful salads amid their comfort food offerings. Like most businesses in the Door, The Cookery is family owned and operated.

Fish boil: A tradition of Door County dating back to the early logging and fishing era, a traditional fish boil is a good way to feed a crowd. They’re still offered at locations such as White Gull Inn (see above) or at The Old Post Office, where we experienced one. What happens: guests first circle around a wood-burning campfire upon which a huge cauldron of water is boiling. Potatoes and onions are added (White Gull Inn does not add onions, a significant difference), and then whitefish. After the whitefish is added, kerosene is added, creating a huge ball of fire and smoke that impresses the audience and serves to burn/boil off the oily top layer of the water. The fish, potatoes, onions, and usually cole slaw is served buffet-style, and the whitefish lacks that ‘fishy’ taste you’d expect, since the fish oils are burnt off in the final burning of the oil. Cool, right? It’s a fun affair that’s as much about the experience as it is about the meal.

Without the kids? Head to happy hour! In addition to the premium flight at Harbor Ridge Winery, the Liberty Taproom in Egg Harbor and Island Orchard Cider in Ellison Bay are good picks. Pair any of these options with gallery hopping from Plum Bottom Gallery to Edgewood Orchard Galleries and Turtle Ridge Gallery and you have yourselves a perfect kid-free afternoon and evening.

Where to stay:

On the water. With a kitchen. That’s really the only criteria in my book, with kids. Why? Being lakefront (or bayfront…Door County has Green Bay on one side and Lake Michigan on the other) is the main draw for kids. And most Door County lodging is in a rural setting, apart from downtown areas, so you’ll want to grocery shop before arriving, and make most meals in-house, to avoid a lot of driving.

There are many options that fit this bill, from older and a bit dated, and most are within 15 minutes of one another in the various towns dotting Door County. I stayed at Sand Bay Beach Resort in Sturgeon Bay for under $200/night in summer, which was an economic choice that provided spacious rooms with kitchenettes (no stove or oven) and communal BBQs on the water, plus an indoor pool and hot tub. However, it is dated and about 15-20 minutes’ drive from the main villages of Egg Harbor and Sister Bay you’ll likely frequent. I also toured the Bay Shore Inn, which offers more upscale amenities.

Pin it for later:

Disclosure: I experienced Door County at the invitation of the tourism board, for the purpose of review. All opinions remain my own.