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How to make life easy when traveling with kids

January 15, 2020 by Mandy

Vacations are supposedly a time for rest and mental time out. However, when you’re traveling with kids in tow, it can be anything but relaxing. Making life easier for yourself while traveling with kids is all about damage control and being as well-prepared as possible. Getting your ducks in a row before you leave will ensure that you can get on with spending quality time together without a hitch.

Pack snacks

‘Are we there yet’ isn’t always about the need to finally reach your destination. Sometimes kids get restless because they need a service station break for a drink and something to eat. Life is always much more bearable if you have a few snacks packed to share out when you’ve hit those long stretches of driving. Providing a mixture of practical snacks (carrot sticks, fruit and nuts) will keep wobbly blood sugar at bay, but it may also be beneficial to put the odd treat in there too.

Stick to road trips

When your kids are extra small, they’re very unlikely to remember the full extent of their vacations when they were young. Taking them to expensive destinations overseas is sometimes best left until their later years. This is especially pertinent when you consider it’s easy to rent a car and drive around the US. Rental services such as E-Z Rental Cars are incredibly efficient if you want to get out and see the world, but with minimal costs and fuss.

Break up the academia

While we as adults need a bit of intrigue to keep us sane while on vacation, our little ones will struggle with too many reading-intensive activities. You will, therefore, be far better off to ensure your children have plenty of time to let loose and run around, whether that’s at the pool or at the park. While it’s true that you will only get one chance to visit some of these locations on your travels, it’s important to remember that you are enjoying a time of rest and relaxation.

Distraction tools

There are going to be some legs of the journey that your children will find tedious, or maybe even quite distressing. Air pressure in airplane cabins can feel overwhelming if you’ve never flown before, particularly if your children’s ears are prone to popping. You won’t be allowed to pack drinks before you clear security, so when you get to duty-free, buy a few bottles of water and maybe even some chewy candy to help keep their mind off the weird sensation of ascending through the clouds. Your tablets and phones won’t have any signal while you’re on a flight, and so some good old fashioned travel board games could be a good way of keeping everyone preoccupied.

It’s inevitable that, while traveling with kids, you are bound to run into some sticky situations. Spilled drinks, tired temper tantrums and leaving the hotel late should all be expected. Planning is the best way to mediate slips ups and keep everyone on their best form.

Why You Should Take Your Family To Montreal Next Year

December 18, 2019 by Mandy

When you are planning a family trip, you need to make sure that you are choosing the perfect destination. This should not only be a place that you want to go but it should also be somewhere that you think your kids would enjoy. There are plenty of family friendly locations in the USA and in Canada with Montreal being an increasingly popular destination for families. Montreal is a large city in Quebec in Canada and it is frequently chosen as a holiday destination for those on the hunt for an adventure.

To help you choose your destination, we thought we’d put together some of the great reasons why you should take your family to Montreal next year. This will include everything from how you should get there and what to do when you do. Keep reading to find out more about Montreal.

Getting There

One of the great things about Montreal is that it is really easy to get to this destination. This can be a big concern for many parents who have young kids that can get bored easily when travelling. In Montreal, the main airport that you’ll want to fly to is the Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport. Most people who are booking flights to Montreal do so to this airport because is only around 20KM away from Downtown Montreal. Flights to this airport will usually be the most reasonably priced flights as they are so common.

When you fly, you can also be sure that you’ll get there quicker. Your family might not enjoy a long drive or a train and when you fly, there is much more going on. Your kids will be able to have fun and it will be a comfortable journey for the adults on the trip. This is why you should consider finding flights to Montreal for your family on your next big trip.

Great Weather

No matter what time of the year you plan on travelling to Montreal, you’ll be sure to experience some interesting weather. For families who want to enjoy some sun without too much risk of sunburn, Montreal in the summer months is perfect. Many families try to avoid the really hot destinations and in Montreal, you’ll be able to experience this.

If you’d prefer a snowy holiday with your family then you can always visit in the winter months. December through to February will be perfect for your family if you enjoy the colder weather and want to get involved in some winter sports. For a destination with a varying weather this is a great place for families to visit.

The Food

We all know that travelling with kids can be tricky as you’ll need to find new places to eat. Some kids will enjoy whatever kind of food you’ll give them while others will struggle to try new things. The great thing about travelling to Montreal with your kids is that there is plenty of choice of restaurants and places to eat. You might be interested to hear that there are even some food festivals throughout the year including La Fete des Restos and Burger Week. These might be something that could appeal to your family and so you should make sure to check them out.

Some of the most traditional Montreal dishes include poutine which is perfect for your kids. You can also try some bagels and smoked meat sandwiches which are a firm family favourite in Montreal. If you are looking for somewhere that your kids can choose from a variety of new and traditional dishes, then this might be the place for your next trip.

European Experience

Montreal is in Canada which is quite far away from Europe but this city actually has a lot of European influences which can make it the perfect place to take your family. Many families cannot afford to go across the pond to France but in Montreal, a lot of people speak French and there are some areas that look like they could have come right out of a French city. In Montreal, the legal language is French with over 60% of residents speaking this at home.

This means that when you visit Montreal with your family, you’ll be able to get around okay but you’ll also get to experience a second language. While you might not pick it up right away, your kids will still feel as though they have gone further afield. This is definitely something to consider when you are picking out your destination for your next trip.

The Museums

Do your kids love to explore museums and see what life was like many years ago? The great thing about Montreal is that there are plenty of museums that can be explored and most of them are great for those with kids. This city has everything from science museums to art and culture museums and you can choose the best one for you and your family.

One of the most exciting museums in Montreal is the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts which features plenty of art and archaeology. If you do decide to visit Montreal and want to see the museums up close then we suggest that you take a look at ticket prices online first. You might be able to pick up a family ticket that will save you money along the way.

Staying In Montreal

The final reason that we think that you should visit Montreal on your next family holiday is that there are plenty of places that you can stay. Whether you are on the hunt for a large hotel or a quiet bed and breakfast, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. Many of the hotels will cater to young children and families and so this is something that you will want to look out for.

When booking your hotel, you should also make sure that you are choosing a location that is safe for your family and that is central. You should be able to find some information about the best places to stay in Montreal online so this is something to consider. Try to do plenty of research into the hotels on offer and don’t forget to consider renting out an apartment. This way, you’ll be able to keep your entire family in the one place.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for a new destination for your next family trip then you should consider Montreal as the place to go. This city has so much on offer for kids and parents who want to explore somewhere with a European vibe. There is great weather in this city and the food is suitable for many people.

When booking your trip to Montreal, make sure that you are finding a place to stay and flights that suit your budget. Family trips can be quite expensive but this city is relatively affordable if you look in the right place. Follow the advice that we have given you in this article and you should be able to get your trip off to the best possible start.

The 8 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia for Adventurous Tourists

December 17, 2019 by Mandy

Hoping to take an exotic and tropical vacation? If so, you should consider a trip to Cambodia. Situated between Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia offers everything from beaches to temples to historical sites and more.

Curious as to the best places to visit in Cambodia? We’re going to discuss them below!

1. Angkor Wat

If you’re into culture or religion, you might be interested in visiting Angkor Wat. The largest temple system in the entire world, Angkor Wat was first erected as a Hindhu shrine in the 12th century. These days, it serves as a Buddhist temple, attracting thousands of visitors every day.

There’s nothing more representative of Cambodia than this temple. It’s so representative of Cambodia, in fact, that it appears on the country’s flag.

Interested in seeing Angkor Wat? You’ll have to make a trip to Siem Reap, a resort town in the country’s northwest region.

2. Security Prison S-21

The darkest time in Cambodian history occurred under the rule of dictator Pol Pot. Under Pot’s rule, from 1975 to 1979, millions of Cambodians were slaughtered in a brutal genocide.

While the country has moved past this dark time in its history, it still goes out of its way to memorialize those who suffered during it. The best example of this memorialization would be Security Prison S-21, a prison in which intellectuals, activists, and political opponents were tortured and killed by Pot’s communist regime, the Khmer Rouge.

If you’re looking to take in this dark part of Cambodia’s history, you’re advised to visit the prison. Located in the capital city of Phnom Penh, it’s characterized by dilapidation, degradation, and numerous torture devices. While it will make you feel uncomfortable, it will also help you to gain empathy for those who endured the struggle.

3. The Royal Palace

If you’re interested in learning about Cambodia’s royal history, you might consider taking a trip to the Royal Palace. Located in the capital city of Phnom Penh, the palace has been in place since 1813.

Home to the royal family (who are not the governing body of Cambodia, FYI), the palace is characterized by its timeless relics and prestigious architecture. It even houses a diamond-studded statue of Buddha.

It’s open for visitation every day. Note, however, that if you’re going to visit, you’re advised to join a guided tour group.

4. Virachey National Park

Looking to experience Cambodia’s unique geography? If so, you need to head to Virachey National Park. Located in the northeast region of the country, Virachey is characterized by jungles, mountains, bodies of water, and a variety of wild animals.

Some of the animals you might come across at the park include gibbons, Asian elephants, sun bears, and macaques. While there are tigers existing in the park, they are few and far between and are not generally considered to be a danger.

You can visit Virachey National Park at any time. Make note, though, that Cambodia’s logging industry is putting quite a bit of stress on the park, causing it to lose large portions of its forests. As such, you’re advised to visit sooner rather than later (before it’s too late).

5. Sihanoukville

Hoping to experience some beach life while in the country? If so, you should head on over to Sihanoukville. Cambodia’s one true beach resort town, it’s characterized by white sands, tall hotels, light blue waters.

Make note, however, that while Sihanoukville can be an exotic and relaxing place, it can also be a dangerous and seedy one, particularly once night falls. Known for its illegal casinos, it does tend to attract some unscrupulous individuals.

That said, as long as you stick to your hotel and its immediate surroundings, you should be able to have a great time. You can go snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, and much, much more.

6. Hard Rock Cafe

If you’re interested in listening to some live music, you should stop by the Hard Rock Cafe in Phnom Penh. Hosting live music every night of the week, the Hard Rock is home to both local and global acts.

Looking to eat a meal while you watch? That won’t be a problem. Hard Rock Cafe offers a varied menu, including entrees, appetizers, and desserts from Cambodia and elsewhere.

Interested? Learn more about Hard Rock Cafe Phnom Penh now.

7. The National Museum

If you really want to take in Cambodia’s history, you should head to the National Museum in Phnom Penh. Housing a Millenium’s worth of relics, it gets you up close and personal with the country’s history and culture.

While the museum is not free to enter, it’s fairly affordable, generally costing around $15.00. That said, if you want to make the most of your experience, you’re advised to join a tour group. This will cost you a little extra.

8. Kep

Enjoy seafood? If so, Kep is the place for you. An exotic coastal province known for its fishing culture, it serves up some of the best crabs the world has to offer.

But eating seafood isn’t the only thing to do in Kep. Sporting a variety of white sandy beaches, it’s a great place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a tropical atmosphere. Not to mention, it’s absolutely beautiful.

Tranquil and laid-back, Kep is almost a complete opposite of Sihanoukville. Safe and inviting, it’s an ideal tropical getaway.

Time to See Some of the Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

There’s no reason for you to wait any longer. It’s time to get out there and see some of the best places to visit in Cambodia. Whether you’re into culture, or history, or just like having a good time, Cambodia will accommodate you.

Are you on the search for other travel information? If so, you can find it right here on our website. Take a look at our other articles now!

Visiting The UK For Your Next Family Holiday

December 12, 2019 by Mandy

Source: Roman Grac on Pixabay

Are you looking for a great place to check out for your next summer holiday? While the summer is still a ways off, there’s no better time to start planning than well in advance if you want to ensure you have the best possible time. When it comes to summer holidays it can be daunting to try to fit everything in to make sure you make the most of your time, but also to make sure that everyone sees the things they want to see while you’re away. If you’ve been thinking about a trip to the UK for some time, you might be wondering what you should see and do while there. It’s a vast country with a whole amazing collection of great things to experience, so why not take the guesswork out of planning and read ahead for our top suggestions for the British Isles.

Cornwall

One of the most beautiful counties in the UK, Cornwall is edged by coastline on three of four sides, making it the ideal place for those who love the beach life, hiking and generally getting out in nature. With numerous beautiful beaches, oodles of history to explore and some of the most gorgeous, rugged coastline, it’s no wonder so many people choose Cornwall for a caravan holiday. Caravanning is a time honoured tradition in Cornwall and it’s easily one of the most enjoyable ways to enjoy the county. Many people from across Britain come to Cornwall for a caravan holiday because they’re so enjoyable and allow a great deal of flexibility, especially for those with smaller children. If you’ve been wondering how to visit this beautiful county, wonder no longer – by coming to Cornwall for a caravan holiday, you get the best experience with no fluff. But don’t take it from us – come and see this unique and beautiful place for yourself. We promise you won’t regret it.

Wales

Wales is a small principality west of middle England and is well worth a look if you want something that thrusts you back through time to the courts of King Arthur with magic and mystery in the air. North Wales is particularly good for this, with lots of ancient villages to explore and heritage to experience. Snowdonia in particular is one of the best regions, especially if you love mountaineering, hiking and exploring lush forests filled with greenery and animals. South Wales is home to Pembrokeshire, a beautiful area with rugged coastline and beaches that will make this the ideal place for those family getaways.

London

London is the capital of the UK and is also one of the most interesting cities. Having got its start as a Roman settlement, it’s grown and become the bustling, immense metropolis it is today. London is home to over eight million people and has the vast expanse of land to prove it. Luckily with a world class metro system, you can navigate the city easily. Home to numerous museums that are all free, as well as historic royal palaces like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Kensington, Hampton Court and Windsor Castle out near Eton, there’s a lot to see and do in the city – and we have only mentioned a small fraction of what there is to do.

With so many great things to experience in the UK, it’s no wonder so many people flock to this country for their family holidays. It’s a welcoming, unique place with so much history to uncover and things to experience and makes one of the top holiday destinations for many people. Come see the UK for yourself though – we promise you’ll love it as much as we do.

3 Best Places in Europe for Family Travel

November 28, 2019 by Mandy

Family is your main priority and ensuring that they enjoy a pleasant time is essential. Therefore, when you have time with your family, you need to think about the best things you can do with them.

First, is having family travel. If you want to have a wonderful time together, traveling to a new destination, makes your family and you happy. So, the next thing is, which is the best place you can go to with your family?

Europe is where you need to go with your family. There are very many places and sceneries you can visit when you travel to Europe.

So, what are the best places you can visit once you visit Europe?

Here are three of the places you and your family can go to when you visit Europe.

Portugal

When it comes to one of the best tourist destinations in Europe and the globe. Portugal is one of them. So, what makes Portugal the best destination for you and your family?

It is in the Southern region of Europe. It has many tourist attractions that you can enjoy: sunny beaches, classic wine regions, world-class golf courses, and many things.

Apart from that, you can see landmarks like;

Tower of Belem
Park and National Palace of Pena
Jerónimos Monastery
Castelo de S. Jorge
Praca do Comercio
Castelo dos Mouros

These are some of them. If you love playing golf, you can find world-class golf courses like the Morgado Golf Course. These are not the only things you can do while in Portugal.

Do you love wine? You can find it in some of the best wine regions like the island of Madeira and the Azores.

Thus, if you want a place you can visit while in the region, then choose Portugal as your first region.

Hungary

One of the little-known countries when it comes to the best tourist destinations in Hungary. Many people always decide to visit other big countries because of the well-known tourist attractions. Therefore, if you are in Europe and want to enjoy time with your family, go to Hungary.

Some of the things you can see while in Hungary are;

Buda Castle
Fisherman’s Bastion
Szechenyi Chain Bridge
Eger Castle
Cathedral of St. Peter
Lake Balaton
Skanzen Open-air Museum
Hortobagy National Park

So, if you want to value your family’s time while in Europe, then make it a requirement to visit Hungary. You will learn a new European culture and see historic sceneries that you will not see anywhere.

Italy

Monte Isola is one of the recognized places in Italy you can tour with your family. Monte Isola received an award by the European Commission for being European Destination of Excellence. It is one of the many places you and your family can tour once you visit Italy.

There are many other places. They include;

Colosseum

Built by the Roman Empire, it is one of the best places you can visit when you go to Italy. The main reason why it was made was to entertain people and host sporting activities. It has tunnels, rooms, cells, and gladiators’ passageways.

Pompei

When Mt. Vesuvius erupted, it left massive destruction in Pompei. However, when it happened, some of Pompei’s treasures, like sculptures, mosaics, and frescoes, were preserved by the lava.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

When you visit Pisa, then the first thing you need to go and see is the Tower of Pisa. Due to topographical challenges when the tower was built, it began to sink due to its weight. Leading to the tower to lean.

Conclusion

If you want your family to enjoy your time in Europe. These are three places you need to ensure they visit. Thank you for reading.