If you’ve ever been within a hundred miles of Chattanooga, Tenn., chances are you’ve seen billboards for Ruby Falls. The signs are big and obvious and might lead you to think it's a tourist trap, but you'd be wrong. Although it is definitely a commercial operation, Ruby Falls is well worth a visit. It is a tightly-run facility that makes good on its claims of spectacular rock formations and a … [Read more...]
Tips for touring the Eiffel Tower
January 29, 2016 By
Whether you think of the Eiffel Tower as cliched or iconic (or both!), it’s undoubtedly a must do on a family trip to Paris. We actually loved the time we spent at this most famous landmark, especially since we made a day of it. We started our morning with a bike tour with Fat Tire Tours, enjoyed the afternoon playing soccer and pursuing food stalls at the base of the tower, then went to the top … [Read more...]
Pompeii or Ostia Antica: Which to include as a day trip from Rome
January 4, 2016 By
Click on just about any message board or forum about Roman travel, and you'll see the question, "Should we go to Pompeii or Ostia Antica during our trip to Rome? After debating the question for ourselves last month as we planned our own Roman holiday, I can tell you there's no easy answer. For those in the early stages of planning, here's the scoop: Pompeii is, of course, the site of the … [Read more...]
Snow day activities that get kids and adults outside
December 26, 2015 By
It's easy to succumb to cabin fever during our long Canadian winters. Most of us probably don't get outside as much as we would like to in the winter months, which is unfortunate because winter offers a host of fun activities that are perfect for the whole family. Not only are winter activities fun, but they are a great way to make sure your children stay active and healthy. So when the snow … [Read more...]
24-hour Chicago winter itinerary with kids
December 18, 2015 By
On a snowy November weekend, my youngest son and I found ourselves in Chicago. Our trip there was accidental; we had been en route to Savannah, Georgia when we became stranded at O’Hare during the first snowstorm of the season. After 30-plus hours trying to continue our planned itinerary, our flight was cancelled and rebooked two days later. Rather than sit around waiting to depart, we decided to … [Read more...]
Ecotourism activities in Costa Rica: Nature parks and lodging
December 17, 2015 By
The Republic of Costa Rica is a rough and tropical rain forested Central American country, with a population of around 4.5 million. The country is popular for nature travel destination among the tourist because of its rich flora and fauna, beaches and volcanoes. Costa Rica has the highest population of plants and animals species on earth. There are around 26 nature parks, 8 biological … [Read more...]
5 touristy things you must do on Grand Cayman with kids
December 4, 2015 By
Sometimes, attractions are touristy for a reason. On Grand Cayman, kitchy fun is alive and well, and well worth a place on your itinerary. The key is to augment these activities with downtime the local way...chilling on a beach house porch, taking a walk through town, or going for a sunset swim. Here's what to do on Grand Cayman with kids (and where to stay to escape the tourist traps). Seven … [Read more...]
Exploring Christmas markets in Belgium
November 30, 2015 By
For our upcoming European vacation on a budget, we researched Christmas markets in France, Italy, and Belgium. While the country is still on high alert as officials ensure safety following the Paris terrorist acts, sources from both Flanders and Visit Brussels say that as of this posting, Christmas markets in the area will proceed as planned. Here's what we learned about exploring Christmas … [Read more...]
Touring breweries and wineries (and how to take home souvenirs)
November 6, 2015 By
Indulging in a libation or two while on vacation has always been popular, but with the number of microbreweries and wineries popping up all across the country, it's now a legitimate way to experience a new destination. Here's how to drink in the local culture, touring breweries and wineries on vacation, even with the kids in tow. How to find the best local beer and wine: You've arrived at … [Read more...]
Best Mountain Towns: Breckenridge Colorado
October 26, 2015 By
Yes, Breckenridge, Colorado could certainly fall into Pit Stops for Kids' Best Ski Towns category; however, this resort town truly is a four-season destination. While it's best known for winter sports, Breckenridge shines in the warmer months as well, boosting hiking, rafting, biking, and lots of storied history. Here's what to do with kids and without in Breckenridge, truly a Best Mountain … [Read more...]
