Category: Travel Tips

Don’t!

OK, just kidding. We’ll be honest, traveling with kids can be quite the challenge and yes, sometimes it’s still rough even for experienced travelers. But after dozens and dozens of flights with our kids, and many talks with our friends who have kids, we’ve compiled a list of tips that just might spare you a headache on your next adventure! See below!

• CHEWABLE medicines – My friend who is a nurse recently reminded me that most children’s medicines come in a chewable form. This makes traveling much easier since the chewable medicines are a lot less messy than liquids and there’s no hassle with clean-up! My kids love the grape-flavored Tylenol.
• First aid – Pack more medicine/aid than you’d normally expect and items that you may need given the worst case scenario. My sister and I literally travel with an ENTIRE pharmacy. Earache drops (I can’t tell you how many ear infections we’ve had on trips), bug spray, cortisone cream, aloe, nausea medicine, band-aids – all of it!  Airports, hotels and resorts will charge you an arm and a leg for these items so bring them with you in a tote of small travel bottles and you won’t be sorry.  I once spent $32 on sunscreen at a fancy resort and $14 on hair spray! Sheesh.
• Wet wipes & sanitizer – I mean, these items go without saying now thanks to Covid, but we’ve added them here nonetheless! You really don’t want to think about how many people have touched that seatbelt or handrail.
• Busy activities – Bring mess free toys and activities such as magic ink, stickers, writing boards, screens and small action figures etc.  Avoid toys with a lot of parts that can roll away or go missing!
• Snacks, snacks and more snacks! – Get the good stuff to ensure that they’re super happy and keep a treat (or 10) in your back pocket when they inevitably hit their limit on the flight! My “go to” snacks are animal crackers, dried fruit, and yogurt bites (for the older kids) plus anything crunchy.
• Ice (for small children/teething toddlers). If you can get to a Starbucks/food place prior to takeoff for a cup of ice, little ones who are teething can chew the ice to avoid hurt ears!  Anything that requires a lot of chewing means that their little ears will have an easier time to pop and clear while up in the air. For babies, it’s best that they drink milk upon ascent and descent to help their ears clear while adjusting to the pressure changes.
• Reusable water bottle – Bring a reusable water bottle so kids drink enough water and don’t get dehydrated.  This is also a lifesaver if you need to rinse anything and can’t get to a sink during the flight.
• Extra clothes – Bring an extra change of clothes for your children and YOU (I once spent an entire flight sitting in apple-juice soaked pants…it’s not something I want to repeat!) and a clear bag to hold the soiled clothes.
• Birth certificates/passports – If your child is under 2, you’ll need to prove their age to ensure that you don’t have to pay for them (even if they’re super tiny!).

Hilton Honors Aspire Card – Avid travelers who stay at Hilton

-150,000 Bonus Points

-Complimentary Diamond Status at Hilton hotels. Diamond status members enjoy (when space is available) room upgrades, complimentary breakfast for you and a guest, and access to the Executive Floor Lounge (where applicable). Trust us, this perk is totally WORTH it! You can almost eat your entire day’s worth of meals at the lounges.

-Hilton also offers the second most number of hotel options in the world (they trail Marriott slightly) and they’re growing and adding more properties each day. With hotels in 100 countries with some 5,000 hotels spread across brand including Hilton, Astoria and DoubleTree, there’s a bevy of places to try in 2023.

Amex Platinum Card – Luxury travelers who travel often

-80,000 Bonus Points

-Best card for luxury travelers given the elite status at both Hilton and Marriott hotels. Extensive airport lounge access (more than 1400+).

-$695 fee *but totally worth it given the lounge access and elite status at Hilton and Marriott if used correctly!)

Amex Gold Card – Everyday card best for restaurants and supermarket points generation

-60,000 Bonus Points

-4x Points for Restaurants and Delivery

-4x Points for Supermarkets

-3x Points for flights booked online

-$250 fee

United Club- Best for Avid United Airline Travlers

-80,000 Bonus Points

-If you travel on United often for work or to visit family/friends, the Club access makes this card worth the investment!

-First and second checked bag are free

-$525 fee

Chase Sapphire Preferred – Best for Beginners

-90,000 Bonus Points

-3x points on dining, delivery, grocery (not Target, Walmart or Costco etc.)

-2x points on travel purchases

-$95 fee

Florida is well-known for its beautiful beaches and draws millions of visitors each year. With so many stunning options to choose from, it can be tough to decide which ones to visit. To help you choose, we pulled together a list of our top Florida beach choices.

• Vero Beach – Part of the “Treasure Coast”, Vero is becoming a favorite among locals from Orlando and Miami alike for its upscale and laid-back nature, beautiful beaches and luxury hotels. We absolutely LOVE the restaurant options in Vero, too! For dinner, the Ocean Grill and the Tides are a MUST. Vero beaches are also wide, with beautiful white sand. There’s also a strong natural breeze that keeps you cool even in the heat of summer.

• Amelia Island – Our family goes to Amelia now every year with our parents, 3 brothers, and all 12 grandchildren! Amelia is nestled on the east coast, north of Jacksonville. There are 40 public beaches within 13 miles – each one offering something slightly different so there’s something for everyone. The main beach has volleyball, a playground and lifeguards. The sand dunes and sea oats are not only beautiful but they’re home to sea turtles. Last and best of all – the average temperature in summer is a lovely 83 degrees 😎, and like Vero, Amelia’s ocean breezes are strong and constant.

• Siesta Key – Siesta consistently ranks as one of the nicest beaches in Florida, if not the world. The barrier island is located in the Gulf of Mexico and is only a short distance from Sarasota on the western side of Florida. Siesta has nearly 100% quartz-crystal sand, which is smoother and cooler on your feet than most beach sand that is mixed with coral. Harvard geologists say that the sand on Siesta and neighboring Crescent beaches have their origins from the Appalachians that flowed down rivers over the years to eventually make their way down to Florida. How cool!

• Marco Island – located where the Gulf intersects the Everglades, Marco’s tranquil, turquoise waters are a haven for both water activities and relaxing alike. For sunset enthusiasts, Marco sunsets are downright magical. South Marco beach often attracts dolphins and Tigertail and Southbeach are known for shelling and small, gentle waves.

• Destin Beach – A hidden gem on the Gulf of Mexico in the northern panhandle, Destin is known for its sugar white sand beaches and emerald blue-green waters. This beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling or simply relaxing. Visitors can also visit the Gulf Islands National Seashore with nature trails, beaches and historic sites. A great getaway for families and reunions.

Which is your favorite? ⬇️ Share what’s on your summer itinerary below!

High luxury, low budget?? We got you covered. Read below for some of our favorite luxury travel tips that can help you save money while enjoying a lavish travel experience.

1. Travel during shoulder season, maximize points

One of the best ways to save money while traveling in luxury is by avoiding peak season. But if you can’t do that… researching quick alternatives is the way to go. This year Baha Mar was $1200/night during the December holidays or $600 + 23k points (which was CRAZY considering any other time during the year it may be just 17k points). We opted to maximize our hyatt points at a higher level Hyatt resort, Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana for 30k points/night AND it was all inclusive.

If you can avoid peak season, traveling in the off or shoulder season can save a significant amount of money on flights, accommodation, and activities.

Not only will you save money, but you will also avoid the crowds and long lines that come with peak season travel.

2. Use Google Explore

Google Explore is a great tool for finding cheap flights, hotels, and activities. You can use it to search for flights by destination, date, and budget. This will help you find the best deals on flights and save money on your trip.

For example, if you are planning a trip to Barcelona, you can use Google Explore to find the cheapest flights from your location. You may even find that it is cheaper to fly business class through a connecting flight in Bogota, Columbia with Avianca rather than a direct flight out of Orlando.

3. Book lunch instead of dinner at high-end restaurants

If you are a foodie and want to experience Michelin star or high-end restaurants, you can still do so on a budget. One of the best ways to save money at these restaurants is by booking lunch instead of dinner

Many high-end restaurants offer a set lunch menu that is significantly cheaper than the dinner menu. We opted to book a lunch reservation at Guy Savoy in Paris for more than half the cost of dinner!!

4. Choose budget luxury accommodations

Luxury accommodations don’t have to cost a fortune. There are many budget-friendly luxury accommodations available that offer the same level of comfort and amenities as their more expensive counterparts. By choosing a shoulder season or a less touristy location, you’ll already be saving money.

But you can opt for a boutique hotel vs. traditional luxury hotel. Or, you can also consider booking a room through Vrbo. Just make sure to read the reviews on several platforms before you book.

Happy traveling! Let us know what works best for you in the comments.

Bok Tower Gardens – Located in Lake Wales, Bok Tower Gardens is a beautiful garden and bird sanctuary that is great for the whole family. At $17, it’s an affordable day spent outdoors with stunning views. Kids ages 5 and under are free and dogs are welcome too! Also, Bok Tower Gardens is recognized as an ‘Autism Friendly’ business by the Center For Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of South Florida.

Blue Springs – Located about one hour north of Orlando, this state park is home to natural springs that maintain a 70-degree temperature all year round. Bring your swimsuit and goggles to check out the crystal clean spring water and plant life for yourself! Be sure to check the hours and wait times since Blue Springs has gotten much more popular since Covid, and be prepared for hours-long waits to park during peak manatee viewing season in the winter!

Kennedy Space Center – Located on the east coast of Florida, Kennedy Space Center is the site where NASA launches rockets into space. Visitors can enjoy the museum/exhibits as well as take a tour of the facility or even participate in watching a live launch!

Mount Dora – Located about 40 minutes north of Orlando, Mount Dora is an antique collector’s dream. With charming architecture and an old-world feel, Mount Dora is a perfect escape that feels miles away from the craziness of Disney/Orlando.

St. Augustine – Located 2 hours from Orlando, this historic city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture, charming streets and museums. Spend the day (or night) and be sure to visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum.

Farms – There are several farms located within driving distance from Orlando depending on where you’d like to go and the season! For early in the year, check out Southern Hills Farms or Pappy’s Patch to pick your own strawberries. For goat yoga, visit Alaska Farms or Wildflower Farms (Wildflower also has other special children’s activities such as story time). Beck Brother’s Citrus offers blueberry picking in April and May. Green Acres Farm has animals such as chickens and ducks and Painted Oaks Farms near Oviedo is perfect for festivals and getting out to experience horseback riding, even for the littlest riders.

Ravenous Pig – Charcuterie, Beer Flights, Pimento Cheese Biscuits and Truffle Roasted Chicken! *They also have a Beer Garden!

Ben Bom – Lamb Burger, Peri Peri Chicken, and Ben Bom Fries

Prato – Diablo (spicy) Pizza, Meatballs and a Cetriolo Cocktail

Domu – Chicken Wing Appetizer, Bone Marrow Ramen

Osprey– Crush Puppies (Crab), Oyster Happy Hour, Fun Cocktails like the “There will be Blood…Orange”

Linda’s La Cantina – Signature Salad (trust me!), French Onion Soup, Steak

Ava MediterrAegean – Greek Salad, Trio Spread, Haloumni Cheese

Seito – Garlic Lime Edamame, Calamari, Nigiri Sushi

Sixty Vines– 60 Sustainable Wines on Tap, Crispy Zucchini Chips, Wood-Fired Flatbread

Hillstone– Thai Steak & Noodle Salad, Veggie Burger (trust me!), Key Lime Pie and Martinis as big as your face!

Portugal is a stunning country that offers a mix of rich culture, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the rolling hills of the Douro Valley, there are countless opportunities for exploration and adventure. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, here are some tours and activities that you won’t want to miss!

Dine at LAB by Sergi Arola at the Penha Longa Resort

Foodies won’t want to miss the opportunity to dine at LAB. Chef Sergi Arola has been awarded two Michelin stars for his culinary creations, which blend traditional Portuguese flavors with international techniques. The restaurant’s minimalist decor provides the perfect backdrop for the exquisite dishes, which are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Explore Porto with Orlando @ourdaytours

Porto is a city that begs to be explored, and there’s no better way to do so than with a knowledgeable guide. Orlando, from Our Day Tours, is a passionate and engaging guide who will take you on a journey through the city’s rich history and culture. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Clerigos Tower and the São Bento train station, and spend more time discovering hidden gems like the Tile Museum.

Go wine tasting in the Duoro Valley @quinta_das_carvalhas

No trip to Portugal is complete without a visit to the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest wine regions. At Quinta das Carvalhas, you can sample a variety of delicious wines while taking in stunning views of the vineyards and the Douro River. The estate also offers tours of the wine cellars and vineyards, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process.

Get lost and see the rooftop statue @lxfactory Lisbon

Lisbon’s LXFactory is a creative hub that’s home to a variety of artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. It’s a great place to wander around and get lost in the maze of streets and alleys. Be sure to make your way to the top of one of the buildings to see the iconic rooftop statue, which offers panoramic views of the city. Along the way, you’ll discover plenty of street art, quirky shops, and trendy cafes.

From the delectable food to the stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These tours and activities are just a few of the many experiences that await you in this vibrant and welcoming country. So why not start planning your trip today?

✨ NEW✨ We scoured the internet, took to the blogs, and checked out the latest press releases and compiled the list of Luxury Hotels that we are most excited about opening in 2023! There are dozens upon dozens of luxury and affordable luxury hotels and resorts opening, but a few of them caught our eye.

The Six Senses Grenada is opening in 2023- We’ve read “late 2023” and I’ve read Quarter 1, so we’ll give you an update when we have one! The Grenada location is their first hotel planned for the Caribbean, so we are particularly excited about visiting given that we’re only a couple of hours away and most Six Senses are based in Europe or Asia (we’re Florida based!). The website and promotional materials highlight special offerings and unique classes such as a rum-making workshop. Sign me up! Other Six Senses opening soon include: India (2023), Switzerland (2023), Maldives (2023), Red Sea (2023), London (2023), and Norway (2024).

The Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London is set to open in spring 2023. ** Note – there is a current promotional deal – book two nights and receive a third night for free**! The Mandarin Oriental properties continue to be favorites of ours for their unique aesthetic known for world-class luxury and 5-star services as well as star watching! (I once saw Angelina Jolie at the MO in Las Vegas). I have this one on my list for an upcoming London trip and want to check out the restaurant and bar, which is the first in the UK for Michelin-starred chef Akira Back and will have a Japanese/Korean influence. There is also a new opening slated for Greece, the first Mandarin Oriental in the country.

South Africa is high on my bucket list, and the new Homestead Resort is precisely where I want to go. Their website and promo images show an eco-friendly yet very sophisticated aesthetic that blends in with the local environment. Homestead is committed to sustainability, focuses on minimally impacting the wildlife and natural habitat and employs 99% electric vehicles on property. There are 12 suites, with six being able to be connected, so it is a great location whether you are traveling solo or with a large group. You can sign up now for alerts!

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If you’re looking for a picturesque town with a charming, small-town feel, Prescott, Arizona is a must-visit destination.

I first visited Prescott, AZ with my now current husband about 13 years ago and was blown away by its beauty and charm.  With stunning natural landscapes, vibrant history, and endless outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone in Prescott. Here are some of the top things to do and places to see:

Goldwater Lake – Located just a few miles from downtown Prescott, Goldwater Lake is a beautiful spot for kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by hiking trails and lush forests, making it a peaceful escape from the city. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboats to explore the lake.  My kids love to bring their sand shovels and buckets and play after a paddle or hike.  There is also a kids’ playground and decent restroom facilities.

Thumb Butte Hike – One of the most prominent spots in Prescott, Thumb Butte is a popular hiking destination for locals and tourists alike. The trail to the top is just over a mile long and is a great spot to watch the sunset or sunrise.  I hiked Thumb Butte most mornings – be sure to bring an extra wrap or sweater on your journey as even summer mornings can be quite brisk up at the Butte.

Prescott National Forest – With over 1.2 million acres of land, the Prescott National Forest is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, camping, fishing, and rock climbing are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in the forest. The forest is also home to numerous wildlife species, including elk, deer, and black bears, so just be prepared for anything and pack a lot of water and sunscreen along with emergency supplies (it’s better to be prepared!).

Whiskey Row – After a day of exploring the great outdoors, head down to Whiskey Row for a taste of Prescott’s lively saloons and old bars. Whiskey Row is a historic district in downtown Prescott that is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. You can grab a drink, listen to live music, and soak up the town’s rich history.  The Barley Hound and the Point are two of my absolute favorites for upscale cocktails and sophisticated bites!  

Heritage Park Zoo – Located in the heart of Prescott, the Heritage Park Zoo is a great spot for families given that the zoo isn’t too large and most families even with toddlers and small children can cover it all in about an hour or so. The zoo is home to over 200 animals, including mountain lions, bobcats, and black bears. There’s also a petting zoo and a playground for kids.

Sharlot Hall Museum – If you’re interested in history, don’t miss the Sharlot Hall Museum. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the American Southwest. You can explore the historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s past.

Prescott is a hidden gem in the American Southwest. With so many things to do and places to see, you’ll never run out of adventures in this charming town.

Costa Rica is a stunning country that offers a wide variety of experiences for travelers. From lush rainforests to stunning beaches and a plethora of wildlife, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.  People are always raving about Costa Rica, so glad we decided to experience it for ourselves! 

After flying into Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), the journey to Silencio Resort takes you through the Central Valley, a lush and green region surrounded by mountains. As you make your way through the countryside, you’ll see coffee plantations, rolling hills, and picturesque villages along the way. The journey takes about an hour and a half, but the stunning scenery makes it an enjoyable trip.  The resort recommended we take a shuttle or private charter from the airport, but we decided to drive on our own.  Let me say this (and I CAN’T stress it enough) listen to the local’s recommendations!  The roads are extremely narrow and extremely steep, so while my husband is quite a capable driver, there were several times where I thought we may be in trouble. My recommendation to everyone visiting CR is to skip the hassle and anxiety of renting your own vehicle and let a local drive you!  You won’t regret it.

Once we got to the Silencio Resort, I was able to relax.  The Silencio is a Relais & Chateau property, boutique resorts known for their extreme attention to detail and flair for unique activities, cultural experiences and events.  Nestled in the heart of the cloud forest, this luxurious resort is an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty, making it perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families looking for adventure, or anyone who wants to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The resort offers a range of activities, including hiking trails, yoga classes, bird watching, and even horseback riding. You can also enjoy the resort’s spa services, which include massages, facials, and other wellness treatments.  My absolute favorite part of this resort was the fact that they featured a few complimentary special touches.  For instance, the lobby’s coffee tables/bookshelves were stocked with your childhood favorite board games – Sorry!, Connect4, Boggle, Pictionary etc.  We played with our children each day while sipping the complimentary hot chocolate in the afternoon.  Additionally, there are daily wellness classes each morning in an open-air studio set deep in the trees. Extra touches like the organic farm and hummingbird garden were fun surprises that one comes to appreciate when staying at a Relais & Chateaux resort.

The accommodations at Silencio Resort are nothing short of spectacular, with each room offering stunning views of the surrounding forest. The rooms are designed to blend in seamlessly with the environment, with natural materials such as bamboo and stone used throughout. Each room features a fireplace, a private deck, and a luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub and separate shower.

Once you’ve had your fill of relaxation and adventure at Silencio Resort, it’s time to head to Manuel Antonio to explore the national park and the local beaches. Manuel Antonio is a small town on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and is famous for its stunning beaches, wildlife, and natural beauty.

The Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit destination, offering visitors the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. The park has several hiking trails, including one that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The park’s beaches are also a major attraction, with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters.  **Be sure to plan a full day at the park as it can take several hours to fully explore the myriad walking trails and hiking areas.  Take note, there is a general store/snack shop located in the center of the park, so don’t worry if you forgot to pack something or need an ice cream to cool off!

In addition to the national park, Manuel Antonio has several other beautiful beaches that are well worth a visit. Playa Biesanz is a secluded beach that is great for swimming, while Playa Espadilla is a popular spot for surfing. There are also several restaurants and bars in the area, offering delicious local cuisine and refreshing cocktails.

Overall, Costa Rica is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. From the stunning natural beauty to the incredible wildlife, this country is a true gem of Central America. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this blog post, where we’ll explore more of this beautiful country with a focus on the Papagayo region.