Twenty minutes before lifts stopped turning on a perfect Whistler ski trip, we were still finding fresh powder. Whistler Blackcomb is just that big. Everywhere we skied at Whistler Blackcomb, the kids discovered new routes, new glades, and new jumps. After spending two full ski days exploring the duel mountains, we could only say we'd had a 'sampler' of what this resort offers to … [Read more...]
Florence Italy at Christmas
December 7, 2016 By
Last holiday season, we made a last minute decision to add Florence, Italy to our European family vacation. We arrived in Florence on December 24, Christmas Eve, and left December 27. While planning, I worried that perhaps, spending Christmas in Florence wouldn't feel festive...after all, their seasonal Christmas markets close before Christmas Day. However, I couldn't have been more wrong. … [Read more...]
Guide to Paris Christmas markets
November 30, 2016 By
One of our favorite memories of a Paris Christmas was touring the many Paris Christmas markets across the city. Some Christmas markets pop up fairly spontaneously from year to year, but there are a few staples you'll find to be consistent. Here's where to go to find Paris Christmas markets, plus tips for best enjoyment of these seasonal wonders. Top Paris Christmas markets: The biggies each … [Read more...]
How to visit the Paris catacombs with kids
October 24, 2016 By
One attraction near the top of my teen's list of things to do in Paris was the Paris Catacombs. This underground network lies in the heart of the city, spanning two km. It's creepy and fascinating and toured completely on one's own, unless you opt for a guide. We recommend it, as the actual visit only takes about 45 minutes and can easily be added to a Paris itinerary with teens or older kids, but … [Read more...]
Guide to Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Peru
October 17, 2016 By
We traveled through Peru with Vantage Adventures, which I highly recommend. However, this guide is designed to be useful to you whether you’re traveling with Vantage, another tour company, or on your own. The Sacred Valley of Peru is a stunning region of high mountain plains dotted with quinoa, wheat, and Incan corn, impossibly high peaks covered in glaciers, and valleys nestled with medium to … [Read more...]
Three medieval towns in Northern France to tour with kids
October 12, 2016 By
Paris may always be a good idea, but families can't go wrong exploring the French countryside as well. While charming medieval towns, many of which are UNESCO sites, dot the map across France, travelers will find plenty to choose from within reasonable driving distance from the capital city. Rent a car and plan to spend 2-3 days exploring the following small to medium-sized medieval cities in … [Read more...]
Guide to Cusco Peru with kids
October 5, 2016 By
We traveled through Peru with Vantage Adventures, which I highly recommend. However, this guide is designed to be useful to you whether you’re traveling with Vantage, another tour company, or on your own. Cusco, Peru is the capitol of the Incan empire, and home to 500,000 Andean people. It’s a beautiful, vibrant, colorful city of contrasts. One minute, I’d feel as though I’m in the heart of … [Read more...]
Where to stay in Peru: Casa Andina hotel review
September 28, 2016 By
In a country like Peru, it can feel daunting to know which hotels to book for a family vacation. Undoubtedly, you want a place to stay that’s clean, safe, reliable, and friendly. Being close to attractions is nice, too. During my stay in Peru with Vantage Adventures, we stayed in Casa Andina hotels at every stop, and by the end of our trip, seeing each Casa Andina was a welcome sight. This … [Read more...]
Visiting Peru with Vantage Adventures
September 26, 2016 By
While visiting Peru, I saw all the bucket-list sites I planned to see: Machu Picchu, the Incan towns of the Sacred Valley, and beautiful Cusco. I hiked, I took hundreds of photos, and I took in the colorful marketplaces Peru is known for. But in addition, I saw and experienced things I had no way of knowing I wanted—perhaps even needed—to see and do. I met jewelers at Arte Magico employing … [Read more...]
Travel products to protect against Zika Virus
September 9, 2016 By
We love family adventure, but we're careful to be mindful of threats to family safety while we travel. Before you go to Central or South America, or the Caribbean, make sure you pack these travel products to protect against Zika or other mosquito-borne illnesses. And of course, always consult a health care professional before any trip to a destination known to have a Zika threat, to discuss any … [Read more...]
