Where to stay in Peru: Casa Andina hotel review

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...]

Holiday Inn Downtown Omaha review: A family-friendly place to hang your hat

Time to rack up those IHG points! If your family is enjoying the multitude of things to do in Omaha, consider hanging your hat at the Holiday Inn-Downtown Omaha. This hotel, a few blocks away from the concentration of downtown attractions, has just the right balance of quality and family-friendly touches to make it a home away from home. Holiday Inn Downtown Omaha review: This Holiday … [Read more...]

Des Moines area hotel review: Hotel Pattee

If you’re looking for charm and character off the beaten path, while still staying close enough to access the fun of a metro area, try the historic Hotel Pattee, in Perry, Iowa. This lovely old building, which first opened in 1913, offers the serenity of a small town location close to nature while still being close to a metro area with lots of attractions. Art sculptures at the roof top … [Read more...]

Tips for AirBnb Italy: Where to stay in Florence and Rome

Originally thought of as only a step up from couch surfing, Airbnb has caught on with family travelers in the US. But what about using Airbnb while traveling abroad? We used Airbnb exclusively throughout Italy, and found the process to be just as secure and convenient as in the states. If anything, Airbnb Italy owners were even easier to work with, and the lodging savings were even … [Read more...]

Grown up getaway: Society Hotel Portland

Love unique properties, boutique hotels, and repurposed buildings? Portland has the motherload. It seems that every time I turn around, a new boutique property has opened in my favorite Northwest city. The latest: The Society Hotel, which we checked out on a rainy January weekend. No doubt about it, the Society Hotel is ideal for a grown up getaway, parent-child mini-vacation, or girls' … [Read more...]

Where to stay in Paris on a budget with kids

When we planned to spend five days in Paris with kids, we knew we'd be on a budget. To make it possible for us, we chose to book a HomeAway apartment rental in an outer arrondissement. This arrangement allowed us enough sleeping space for our family of five, a kitchen to cook some meals in, and a washing machine for our laundry. We already trusted HomeAway, as we use this site for ski vacations in … [Read more...]

Where to stay in Chicago: Westin Chicago River North

The moment we entered the elegant lobby of the Westin Chicago River North at the blustery, snowy start of our winter Chicago weekend, we felt awash in warm and hospitality. While our hands and feet warmed up quickly, that cozy feeling never went away. For the entirety of our two night stay, we were met with smiles, helpful staff, beautiful surroundings, and convenient amenities. Here’s why we’ll … [Read more...]

Fun holiday events at favorite hotels this season

Will you be celebrating the holidays on vacation this year? If so, we have a round-up of holiday events at hotels, with deals and and happenings at some of our favorite resorts and family vacation hot spots. Read on to learn where to book your holiday getaway, whether you're headed to sand or snow: Tropical and beach holiday events: Head to South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island, … [Read more...]

Educational travel: hotel programs that teach while vacationing

Will you be pulling your kids out of school this year for travel? You can admit it here...we do it too! While we believe that travel aids a child's education, we also value the lessons they're learning in school. Therefore, when we do take kids out of class, we try to find museums to visit or hotel programs for kids that offer classes, lessons, or special programming. Below, our favorite hotel … [Read more...]

Where to stay in Grand Rapids: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel review

The following post is written by Pit Stops for Kids' Midwest contributor, Kate Basi. Situated on the banks of the Grand River in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is one of the landmarks of the city’s skyline. It consists of two distinct sections—the historic Pantlind Hotel, built in 1913, along with a modern glass high rise tower that offers stunning views of the … [Read more...]