travel Archives - Page 3 of 12

Packing Essentials For A Weekend Away From The Children

June 21, 2018 by Mandy

Let’s face it, parenting can be exhausting. There are some days where we really feel like we could do with a break, so it’s relieving when you finally get the chance to jet off, even if it’s just for the weekend. Though you’re bound to miss the little ones, there’s no denying you could do with some much needed down-time. Check out our list of essentials for a weekend away from the children:

Itinerary

No doubt you’ll want to plan your weekend, so you make the most of your well-deserved break! If you’re globe-trotting to another destination, then take a look at where’s best to visit, the best landmarks and the tastiest restaurants. It’s good to have at least a rough idea of what you’d like to get out of each day, as you won’t be there for long. However, for those enjoying a staycation or spa weekend break, you’re probably looking forward to a more relaxing time. Think about plenty of walks with a scenic view and idyllic bars and restaurants you’d like to visit.

Swimwear

Wherever you’re visiting, whether it’s a Spa resort or luxury city hotel, you’re bound to be able to enjoy the facilities. Remember to pack some essential swimwear pieces, such as your favourite swimsuit, swim shorts and kimono cover up. Even if you don’t plan on going swimming, it’s worth packing at least one swimming costume just in case you change your mind!

Comfy Clothes

The reason you’re taking a weekend break away from the children is to relax, so make sure you do just that! Exploring the local bars and restaurants is always a good idea, but for the times you are back in your hotel room, you’ll want to make the stay as comfortable as possible. So, make sure you pack your women’s loungewear for the ultimate chilled-out nights, as well as mens loungewear for bedtime.

Chargers

Yes, you’re enjoying a weekend away from the kids, but will you want to talk to them daily? Yes! So, pack a couple of chargers and travel adaptors to ensure you can stay connected with the family. Best to pick a hotel room that comes with free Wi-Fi to save on extra data costs. Also, leave any emergency numbers with whomever is taking care of the kids, including hotel number and your insurance policy details in case of any accidents or emergencies.

You’re prepared!

You’re just about ready for that amazing weekend getaway from the children. Have fun, make memories, and most importantly – remember this is a well-earned break, so no guilt involved. Lastly, and arguable the most important essential, leave enough room in your suitcase for all the children’s presents on your return!

How To Have The Best Family Summer Vacation On A Budget

June 21, 2018 by Mandy

The summer vacation season is in full swing, and families all over are preparing for long days filled with fun and adventure with their kids. If you have a large family, this can often mean lots of budgeting and planning, to ensure the vacation money they have saved for all these months can stretch as far as possible.

Traveling does not mean breaking the bank, neither does it mean you have to stay overnight in shabby hostels or in a sleeping bag at campsites. The following tips will help you have the best family vacation on a small budget.

Consider Package Vacation

Package vacations are a great way to save money and come with many advantages. They can be considerably cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately and take the hassle out of planning the perfect family getaway. If you book a package vacation, you can expect a safe and relaxed time spent with your nearest and dearest. If you do experience any problems, you can simply contact the organizer, as they are responsible for most, if not everything. This includes accommodation, flights, transfer, and meals, and maybe also for any excursions. Most reputable organizers can deliver a quality service, security, and low prices.

Drive To Your Location

Driving by car can be lots of fun if you have a large family and it’s a good option to save money too. You merely need to enter the destination into the navigation device so that you can plan the route you want to drive before traveling and consider possible alternatives. Remember that some navigation devices take routes that can get you stuck in traffic jams, and this is enough to bore the children, so try to find alternative ways to get to your location by researching on Google Maps and other driving platforms.

Remember driving can also be a big adventure, and weather conditions can be very sporadic, so you need a reliable and efficient car. If your current car doesn’t look like it’s up to the job of driving long distances, consider purchasing a nearly new Nissan from a professional dealership to ensure you find the right car for you and your family.

Use Price Comparison Sites

Using price comparison sites to find cheap flights will save you time, nerves and money. Furthermore, many travel portals and airlines send out newsletters with special offers. If you are planning a vacation soon, it may be worthwhile to subscribe to the popular providers to make sure you are notified of any upcoming deals or sales.

Book Early

The best time to book flights, vacation packages and hotels depends on several factors. Regardless of your mode of travel, there is the optimal time for each booking, usually known as the “early bird” time. It is usually around six to eight weeks before you plan to travel. However, it is also worth checking the prices in the off-season, in case there are significant savings to be had.

Choose The Right Destination

Contrary to belief, even during peak season; some destinations are very affordable. It’s not only the common vacation spots that offer the best deals; there is an abundance of cheap package getaways to various hotspots in other countries such as Turkey and Morocco. So think outside of the box and explore off the beaten track.

11 Foods to Eat in China

May 10, 2018 by Mandy

There is no denying that China is one of the richest tourist attractions in the world. The vast country is not just rich in attractions but also boasts of a diverse culture and culinary expertise not found anywhere else in the entire universe. The variety, modes of preparation and how the foods are eaten are some of the reasons why most people see it best to go for online passport renewal so that they can embark on purely food tours in China. If this has been a long dream of yours, and you feel the time to make it come true is now, then you can be assured of a magnificent trip, and to help you out with the varieties, here is a brief look into some of the dishes you must try-:

Sweet and sour pork

You could have probably seen or even tasted this dish in a Chinese restaurant in your home country, but you will never taste anything like when in China. For beginners, it features pork fried in a doughy butter, before being dressed with different sauces. It is mostly served with rice, and it is available almost every restaurant you will walk into while in China.

Kung Pao Chicken

Irrespective of the number of chicken dishes you have had in your life, you can expect a completely new experience with the varieties you will be found in China and one of the best you should never miss is the Kung Pao Chicken. It is a famous Sichuan specialty and is loved by both foreigners and locals. The major components of this tasty delicacy include fried peanuts, dried chili, and diced chicken.

Ma Po Tofu

Ma Po Tofu is not just another delicacy worth trying in China, but it is one that comes with a lot of history behind it. It is very famous in the Chuan region, where it is believed to have been around for over 100 years. The delicacy features brownish red ground beef prepared with lots of chopped green onions, in addition to a variety of spices which makes it spicy and mildly hot. It is literally one of the tastiest delicacies you will have while in China.

Wontons

In China, it is a custom for people to eat wontons during the winter solstice and this is a tradition that has been practiced since 618 during the Tang Dynasty. The most common shape of wonton you will encounter are the triangle ones, which are almost similar to tortellini from Italy. They are usually boiled then served in a soup, though they can also be deep fried as a variation in the preparation. The wontons are normally stuffed with diced shrimp or minced meat.

Dumplings

Dumplings have been around in China for more than 1,800 years. They are a traditional delicacy synonymous with the northern parts of the country, and the primarily consist of a mixture of minced meat and chopped vegetables which are then carefully wrapped in a very thin piece of dough skin. Some of the popular filings for dumpling include beef, chicken, vegetables and diced shrimp. They can be steamed, boiled or fried, and if you happen to visit China around the Chinese New Year, then you can be sure to eat a lot of them.

Chow Mein

A sampling of Chinese delicacies will never be complete without trying out the noodles, and the perfect introduction to the noodle dishes is the Chow Mein noodles. The name loosely translates into stir-fried noodles. Most of the time, it consists of meats such as shrimp, chicken or pork, together with celery and onions. In making the dish, the noodles are first cooked in boiling water for some minutes until they are soft and tender. They are then allowed to cool before they are stir-fried.

Peking Roasted Duck

Ducks are a very common street food in China and if you want the perfect duck first experience, then you should not try anything other than the Peking roasted duck. This is a famous dish in China, mainly in Beijing, and is regarded as one of the country’s national dishes. The dish is cherished for its crispy thin skin. It is normally eaten with sweet bean sauce, pancakes, and mashed garlic. If you happen to be in Beijing, then this is a dish you must give a try by all means.

Spring Rolls

You may have tasted a million spring rolls before, but none will taste like the dim sums you find in China. The fillings in the rolls are mainly meat or vegetables and they could either be sour or sweet. In preparing the rolls, the fillings are neatly wrapped in a spring roll wrapper then deep fried to golden yellow color before being allowed to cool.

Sichuan shredded chicken

Here is another chicken variety that makes it to the list of the must-try foods in China. It is a spicy chicken native to the Sichuan region, hence the name, and it features shredded chicken which is first cooked over high heat in a mixture comprising of bamboo shoots, carrots, and a decent amount of green peppers. The sauce for the chicken is a bit sour and a bit sweet with a generous amount of garlic to introduce the sweet but pungent flavor adored by many.

Hairy Crab

If you happen to be in Shanghai during the months of fall, then you will meet lots of hairy crabs roaming everywhere. When the crabs are steamed to perfection with the local expertise, then you are guaranteed of enjoying very nice and delicious meals from the shells. The locals prefer to dip the crab in a dark vinegar sauce before sending it down their throats, and it is something you can also try, though most foreigners do find it strange and unusual.

Dan dan noodles

If you consider online passport renewal for a trip to China, then you must not tire about eating lots of noodle dishes and the dan dan noodles is another one that finds a mention in our list. It is a spicy noodle dish from the Sichuan region, and most Chinese consider it as a comfort food. The noodles are prepared in a spicy sauce featuring preserved vegetables, minced pork, chili oil, and lots of scallions.

A Must-Read Summertime Guide to Snorkeling Gear for Kids

May 7, 2018 by Mandy

If you’re planning on letting your little one dip their toes in the water this summer, make sure that they’re safe and have the best snorkeling gear for kids!

Imagine your child out there snorkeling, having fun, looking at all the colorful fishes, but then uh oh! There is water leaking into their mask and mouthpiece, and now they are running (or swimming) at you to complain. Don’t be that mom!

If snorkeling is one of the activities on your family’s summer destination, DON’T let your kids into the water until you read this guide on how to pick the best and safest snorkeling gear for kids.

There are many brands out there for children’s snorkel gear but unfortunately, they are not all created equal. It can be a bit of a challenge to find the perfect snorkel gear for your kids but don’t worry, mommies! We’ve got you covered.

Here is a guide to everything you need to know about picking the best snorkeling gear for your kids.

How to Pick the Best Snorkeling Gear for Kids

A complete snorkeling gear consists of several things: a mask, a snorkel, a pair of fins. However, we would also highly recommend a snorkel vest for a safe snorkeling experience and a wetsuit if your child will be swimming in cold waters.

Snorkeling gear can be purchased separately or together as a set. Most sets will come with three of the basic items:

the mask
the snorkel
the fins

We’ll go into details about how to choose each one but before you shop, make sure the retailer allows you to return or exchange the items because there is a high chance that the item might not fit or is uncomfortable for your child.

If you can, try to shop in person with your child that way they can try on the products on the spot but if you can’t, make sure you leave enough time to do that before your trip in case you need to make an exchange.

What You’re Looking For

The most important factor when looking for children’s snorkeling gear is that it doesn’t leak. Leaking in the mask will block their views which is annoying and can ruin the whole experience. Leaking in the snorkel would be dangerous if the child doesn’t know how to blow the water back out and they can end up swallowing it.

Next, would be the comfort and only the person who’s wearing it can tell you this. Even if everything looks like it fits, ask your child if it’s comfortable. Fins that are slightly scratchy might be okay now but after an hour or so, it’ll be very uncomfortable.

Now, let’s get to the individual pieces:

Mask

When looking for the best snorkel mask for kids, the most important thing you need to focus on is the fit. Simply put, if the fit is too loose, water will seep through and if it’s too tight, it’ll hurt and affect circulation.

To ensure a mask fits properly, follow these steps:

Without putting the straps on, place the mask on top of your child’s face gently just to see if there are any obvious holes and gaps. If there are, try another one.
Once you find one where there are no obvious gaps, have your child wear it with the strap and adjust it until it is not too loose or too tight. A mask that is too loose will fall off easily if your child shakes their head. A mask that is too tight will leave an outline on their face instantly.
Now, carefully examine the entire skirt of the mask (all the parts that touch the face) and make sure there are no holes or gaps anywhere. Pay special attention to the areas where leaks most frequently occur like the temples or the simile lines.
If you can, have your child inhale with the mask on without the straps and see if the mask stays on. If it does, the mask is a good fit for them. If it doesn’t stay on, you should keep looking but we also know sometimes young children have trouble performing this activity.

Snorkel

The snorkel is the tube piece that your child has to bite down on and that will allow them to breathe.

A common problem with snorkels is that the mouthpiece that goes inside the mouth (the rubber knobs) is too big. When this happens, it will be very uncomfortable for your child and water will leak in. Your child should be able to bite down on the mouthpiece comfortably and it should fit snugly, creating a seal from outside water.

Most masks and snorkels are sold together so if either doesn’t fit well, you’ll have to pick something else. If you’re having trouble finding one where both pieces fit your child, look for a full face snorkel mask instead. Full face snorkel masks cover the entire face which can be great if your child has trouble holding down the snorkel mouthpiece. However, some children can find this restrictive.

Two additional terms you need to know about snorkels is “purge snorkel” and “dry snorkel.”

Purge snorkels allow children to blow out any water that gets in.
Dry snorkels have an additional piece that prevents water from coming through the top of the snorkel.

Fins

Good snorkel fins are generally pretty easy to find. The most important thing about choosing them is that it fits your child’s feet.

Nowadays, most snorkel fins are adjustable so they grow with your child and you won’t have to buy a new pair every year.

Or, if your child finds the straps annoying or uncomfortable which will affect their swimming, you can buy full foot snorkeling fins which some people prefer.

The last thing to note is how rigid or soft the fins are. The softer they are, the easier it is for your child to swim, especially if they are a beginner swimmer.

Snorkel Vest

A snorkel vest is crucial for your child’s safety. They are a little different from normal swimming vests because they allow the child to face down and have additional straps to keep them in place.

The only time we’d say it would be okay for your child to go without one is if they’ll be in the pool with an adult and you know they’re a strong swimmer. Without these circumstances, a snorkel vest is an absolute must whether they’re a good swimmer or not.

In addition to safety, the vest will also just give them a better experience because they won’t have to work as hard to stay afloat.

There are plenty of good snorkel vests in the market so choosing one won’t be that hard at all. The hardest part will be choosing the color and most of them are bright to help parents spot their child easily.

Wetsuit

A wetsuit is not a must if your child will only be swimming in the pool but if they’ll be out in the ocean, you might want to get one. A wetsuit will keep them dry and warm and let them stay in the water longer.

Before you buy one, make sure it’s the right size. A good one should fit snugly around the neck, the wrists, and the ankles. You can buy a full body wetsuit or a short-sleeved wetsuit depending on your child’s preference.

Just as a heads up though, some kids like getting wet in the water. It’s part of the fun for them so they may not want one.

Snorkel Sets

Snorkel sets are an economical and convenient way to buy all of the essential pieces together. Basic snorkel sets include the mask, snorkel, and fins. They generally cost about $40-$50. Considering that most masks and snorkels already cost around $30, a snorkel set can be a good deal.

We would recommend buying a set if your child is new to snorkeling and you do not have a preference for brands. Just make sure you can return them in case only one piece fits your child.

If however, your child has gone snorkeling before and loved it, and you want to invest in some top-quality ones, then buying the pieces separately might be better.

Conclusion

When looking for snorkeling gear for kids, keep comfort, fit, and safety in mind.

If you are able to, bring your child to the store to try on the pieces. If not, make sure the retailer has a return or exchange policy. Sometimes different brands have different size standards so if your child has gone snorkeling before but you’re switching brands, don’t assume they’ll be the same size in a different brand.

Even if everything fits, ask your child if they are comfortable. Sometimes fins can snag, masks might make them itchy, etc. We’re sure you already know, children can be very peculiar.

Ready to Snorkel?

We hope you found these tips helpful in your mission to find the best snorkeling gear for kids. We know it’s not the easiest task but once you find the right ones, your kids will have a blast snorkeling this summer.

Just remember that when you’re shopping, comfort, fit, and safety should always be in the back of your mind. And don’t forget the sunscreen and other travel essentials.

If you would like more expert mommy tips or in need of other fun family activities for the summer, be sure to check us out on our website!

The 7 Best Places in Australia for Travel with Kids

May 7, 2018 by Mandy

Traveling with little ones doesn’t mean you can’t have fun! Check out this guide to the best places in Australia to check out for when you travel with kids.

Your idea of a perfect Australia holiday may be the open road through the outback, beers at sundown, and barbies on the beach.

While that might be great for traveling in your early twenties, with kids in tow, you need to think a bit differently.

But never fear, Australia has just as much to offer those who travel with kids as backpackers and free spirits.

Here are our top ten best places to travel in Australia with kids.

1. Noosa, Queensland

If your kids love swimming, games and the great outdoors then an Ingenia Holidays package at Noosa Holiday Park could be just the ticket for you.

They’ve got great parks in peaceful settings, with kids activity packs, movies nights and days out at the beach to keep everyone entertained. You can even enjoy some time together as the kids are being looked after by someone else for a change!

2. Brisbane, Queensland

Brisbane is an extremely family friendly city.

One of the most fun places for kids in Brisbane is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Beautifully situated next to the river, it’s ful of every type of marsupial under the sun, including their namesake koalas.

Your kids will get to actually hold a koala – a truly unforgettable experience. They will also get to hand-feed kangaroos – that ought to get them off the smartphone for a while!

If wildlife doesn’t tempt your brood, Brisbane also boasts a terrific man-made beach, with shallow water – perfect for families.

There’s also Brisbane’s answer to the London Eye – the Brisbane Wheel – offering great views of the city. Throw in several family-friendly museums with tailored kids sections, you’ll struggle to fit it all in.

3. Selwyn Snowfields, NSW

The family that stays together, plays together!

Australia is known for its outdoorsy lifestyle, but it might surprise you to know that it’s also a great place for winter sports.

All the family can have fun on the slopes at Selwyn Snowfields. Known for its family-friendly amenities and atmosphere, it’s one of the great family holiday destinations in Australia.

There are specially designed activities that are great to do as a family if skiing and boarding are a bit advanced for your lot. Check out snow tubing and tobogganing – great activities you can do together as a family.

4. Sydney, NSW

OK, your kids might not be wowed by the opera house, but there are loads of great places to take kids in Sydney that will keep them entertained, allowing you to indulge in a bit of culture in between.

The latest attraction is the Wild Ropes at Taronga Zoo.

With courses for young children, through to more challenging ones for teens and adults, it’s a fantastic family experience. You’ll be high up in the tree canopy, walking through rope bridges and taking in the amazing views.

It’s an exhilarating experience but care is taken to make it totally safe for all ages. While you can purchase this separately from Taronga Zoo admission, the zoo itself is well worth a visit and fun for all the family.

The Botanic Gardens in the heart of Sydney are a great place to take the kids to experience the diverse beauty of the flora of Australia.

Set right on the bay, with views over the Sydney Opera House and Government House, it’s a perfect place to explore and take a picnic.

5. Adelaide, South Australia

Adelaide and the surrounding area are home to some cracking things to do for kids – take for example St Kilda’s Adventure Playground.

This award-winning park, which takes its name from the seaside town in which it is located is just a 45-minute drive out of Adelaide.

It has recently been renovated, and contains slides, an old pirate ship to be explored and swings and climbing frames in a range of styles to suit children of different ages.

Take a ferry out to Kangeroo Island and you can catch up with seals in their natural habitat, and, as the name suggests, lots of kangaroos! It’s a refreshing change of pace from the mainland – great place for quality family time.

6. Perth, Western Australia

Western Australia might not be as densely populated as the eastern side, but it still packs a punch, with lots to keep all members of the family entertained.

It’s the ultimate place to have fun in the sun and in the water. Your kids will love The Maze Family Fun Park – including Outback Splash.

This fun park boasts a 3 story, 6 slide waterslide playground, guaranteeing hours of fun for all the family, surrounded by lush grounds to picnic and play in.

If you’ve got younger children it also has a toddlers area, with a shaded pool, and an octopus slide.

If you prefer your water a little more natural, there are great family friendly beaches to enjoy as well.

Head on down to Perth’s City Beach, or Hillarys Boat Harbour. This recreation destination offers bathing, as well as an aquarium, leisure zone, and sideshows.

7. Darwin, Northern Territory

Darwin may be famous for being hot and sticky – but how many cities do you know that boasts not one, but two, free waterparks!

There are slides for all ages, and you’ll be glad of the chance to cool off whatever your age!

If you fancy a truly exhilarating experience, then get up close and personal with some of the most fearsome predators on earth – Australian crocodiles.

On jumping croc cruises you’ll see just that – enormous crocs jumping out the of water to snap up hunks of meat that have been hung off the side of the boat. Maybe one for the older children – but something they’ll never forget!

The Takeaway: Best Places to Travel with Kids in Australia

Australia is so vast, so diverse that there’s no reason for any member of the family to ever be bored.

The facilities for kids are so well designed that you’ll find you get as much pleasure from them as they do! And the stunning wildlife will give you awesome memories to enjoy as a family for years to come.

If you’re planning a family vacation, but want to stay Stateside rather than head down under this year, check out our blog on 6 American theme parks that kids will love.