Amazing Things To Do With The Kids When You Travel To The State Of Wyoming

travel with kids

It’s so hard to fill the holidays with fun things to do with the kids. After all, you might not want to travel abroad for a few days during the cold winter months. But there are so many places you can visit in the US. And one of the most scenic ones is the state of Wyoming. There are a ton of things you can do in the beautiful area which will keep your whole family busy. Therefore, here are some amazing things to do with the kids when you travel to the state of Wyoming.

You need to camp in the Yellowstone National Park
One of the most famous things about Wyoming is its picturesque Yellowstone National Park. The beautiful recreation area is a sight to behold with incredible canyons and beautiful forests. It even has its infamous Old Faithful geyser which sees millions flock there every year. All of this plus the rivers and forests makes it a fantastic place to visit with the kids. You can set up camp and enjoy days exploring the park. If your child loves animals, they will also be in their element here. After all, the park is home to so many different species including wolves and bears! You can read more about why Yellowstone is great for kids in this article. And don’t forget to take your little ones to the Grand Prismatic Spring which is situated here. As we said before, the large hot spring in North America is surrounded by rainbow colors and will leave your little ones impressed.

You need to go skiing in Grand Teton National Park
And Yellowstone National Park is not the only park you should be visiting while in the state of Wyoming. You should also be heading to the Grand Teton National Park which is a hugely popular destination for adventurous families. It’s famous for its rugged peaks, and its gorgeous lakes. If you kids love active sports, they will love all the hiking, camping, and fishing that they can do here. Also, you can also head to the valley of Jackson Hole. Here you can do activities such as rafting and skiing which the kids will love. And here you can find some of the most beautiful lodging in wyoming; perfect for doing some exploring with the kids.

Head to one of the museums like The Wyoming State Museum

It’s always fun for kids to go to a museum. After all, it offers them a fun experience while they are learning at the same time. Therefore, you should consider heading to the Wyoming State Museum. It’s located in Cheyenne and it’s full of history about the wonderful state. And it’s also full of fun exhibits for your kids to get involved in. And there are plenty of grounds for them to have a run around afterward.
And you could also consider taking your little one to a Rodeo. It’s a fun evening, and your kids will love it. Check out the best ones in Wyoming to find the best one to take your kids to.

7 Benefits of Taking a Cruise

If you are planning to take some time off of work, but are not sure where you are headed, a cruise is always an option you should consider. You might wonder why everyone who is returning from a cruise is so happy and there’s a reason for it. It’s an amazing experience that comes at a great value and something that your whole family can enjoy. They can truly be the perfect vacation.

Is there a better way to relax than to lay under the sun, with a cocktail in your hand, while you sail away? We believe there’s not. However, it’s are not only a great leisure activity. In fact there are numerous benefits of taking a cruise. Here are just seven of them.

It Can Save you a Lot of Money

At first, when looking at the price of a cruise, you might think that they are an expensive treat. However, when you consider the value you are getting, you will actually realize that cruises can save you a lot of money. In fact, some of the best packages come at great prices. In most cases, you‘ll be paying under $100 per night, which is extremely affordable, especially considering that you‘ll be getting a hotel, a dinner, a show and an overall unforgettable experience. Furthermore, if you are traveling to a cheap place, you‘ll be able to save even more. Have kids? On some cruise lines your kids will be able to sail either completely for free or at discount rates, if they are sharing a cabin with you. What’s more, even if you are looking for luxury, you can find the best value on a cruise as well, all with the best alcoholic beverages, shore tours and more.

There is Little to No Planning Involved

Most people dread going on a vacation, simply because of the time it takes to plan one. However, you won’t need to go through the tedious process of planning. Forget about booking different hotels or plane tickets. With a cruise, you‘ll be able to travel the world, while having the comfort you need and there’s isn’t any planning involved. Everything you need to do is simply pick your ship, pack your bags and you‘re good to go. If your family is big, or you are planning a trip for a group, with a cruise you won’t experience any additional hassle in planning. Most cruise lines provide group offers that will not only give you further discounts on your travel, but will help you with the booking of cabins and more.

Getting Out of Your Own Head

One of the hardest things to do in our busy everyday lives is to get out of our own heads. Even when we are on vacation, we often think about the different issues that are currently on our mind. What about my project? What about my work? These are all questions that are on the minds of students and adults who are about to take a vacation. Nevertheless, on a ship you‘ll get a chance to stay away from your work and study life for a while and completely enjoy your free time.

Meeting New People

Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, the scientific benefit of meeting new people is a proven fact. On a ship you will be able to meet a lot of new faces. What’s more you can easily find great talking points and things in common, because after all you are all enjoying a nice cruise. Nevertheless, make sure to make the most out of your new interactions. Cruising is also one of the most romantic travel experiences. Whether you are with your other half or are a single who would like to meet someone new, there’s no better place for you than a cruise. What’s more, most lines have special packages for weddings and honeymoons, as well as vow renewals.

Take the Whole Family With You

There aren’t a lot of vacations where you can take your family and be certain that everyone will enjoy their time. With the multitude of activities and the uniqueness of the experience they offer, cruises are fun for each member of the family. What’s more with everything located on a single ship, you‘ll be able to go and do different stuff, without worrying where all of you are. You will all be on the same ship.

Having Fun

We all like to relax, but having fun is also something you need to do. On a cruise you will be able to join in over a dozen of new and exciting activities that will make your vacation even better. In fact, most ships have a bar and a restaurant, where you‘ll be able to enjoy life music and a few drinks. Depending on the ship of your choice, the list of onboard activities may include everything from pottery classes, to yoga, comedy routines, dance workshops, basketball and more. Ships are much like floating cities in the middle of the oceans and have Wi-Fi, cell service and satellite TV, so you won’t need to worry about leaving behind your comfort as well. If scrolling down your smartphone is something you often do, on a cruise you‘ll be able to do so as well, all while enjoying the nice hot sun and the ocean breeze. On a cruise you will also be able to forget all of your cares, as there are always enough lifeboats and doctors aboard to help in an emergency situation and everything you need is always there.

Learning About New Cultures

If you are taking an international cruise, you‘re getting a chance to learn more about new cultures. They are a bit more expensive, but at the end of the day, they can be an unforgettable experience. What’s more you’ll be able to do visit a dozen of new locations and you‘ll need to unpack only once. You won’t have to deal with the hassle of changing hotels, and yet you will be able to wake up on a new location every single day. That’s perfect. Some of the best cruises will let you visit all of the cities that you’ve wanted to visit your entire life and you‘ll be able to do so on a great value price and for a week or a month of your time. There certainly isn’t a better vacation than a cruise, as it lets you enjoy multiple cultures and visit over a dozen of new locations without much hassle or planning.

In a world polluted by productivity and stress, it’s hard to forget the importance of taking a break. Whether you are single or have a family, your lack of energy can not only harm your relationship with others and yourself, but can be relatively unhealthy. Make sure to plan your break and book a cruise, because there’s no better way to relax than to enjoy a nice sea travel.

About author:

Robert Everett: I am a freelance writer currently based in Chicago. Solving students career and university problems. Having interest in marketing and business.
My Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/roberteverett82
My Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/3/110029123750852456335

4 Travel Gadgets That Can Save Your Time And Power For Leisure

Whether you are doing it for business or pleasure, traveling is something that is in the core of our society. Ever since airfare made it easier to go from one location to the other, people have been scouring the globe finding new opportunities to advance their studies, career or simply to relax and enjoy the beautiful planet we live in. Whether you are a tourist or travel often for business, there are certain appliances that will aid on your journey. To help you out make your travel experience better, we’ve gathered the four best gadgets that can save your time and power for leisure.

A Portable Speaker and a Nice Pair of Headphones/Earplugs

Regardless of the device you are constantly wearing with you, you will most probably need a good sound system to go with it. Making your nights at the hotel a bit more sound, portable speakers are a must-have equipment for any tourist. A perfect accessory, portable speakers will let you enjoy your music library on your trip. Furthermore, if you are a music lover, you will definitely need a nice pair of headphones or earplugs that will let you get into your musical comfort zone when traveling. What’s more a portable speaker and a nice pair of headphones are one of the cheapest accessories that you can purchase with some great budget choices for travel going for as low as $25. Just make sure to do your research before purchasing your accessory.

Depending on what you prefer, there are different options that might be more suitable for you. For example, the Inateck Aries are amazing earphones that look quite expensive and deliver a nice sound quality, but are in fact relatively cheap. On the other hand, if you prefer being recognized for the tech you own, you might consider purchasing Beats headphones. When it comes to Bluetooth speakers there are a ton of different brands and options on the market. One of the more affordable ones for example, the Lava Brightsounds is a great choice that works both as a travel lamp and a Bluetooth speaker. However, if it is too big for you to carry, you might want to check out something that is smaller, but more expensive, like the Denon Envaya Mini or the UE Roll.

The Smart SuitCase

If you travel often, then the BlueSmart Suitcase is a definite must on your list of tourist accessories you should purchase. One of the most innovative pieces of tech in the recent decade, the Bluesmart Smart Suitcase has a number of great features that make it stand out from the regular suitcase. For example, BlueSmart has a built-in GPS that will let you track your suitcase anywhere in the world, so you won’t need to worry about losing your luggage anymore. What’s more, you can easily control the suitcase via a mobile app and the suitcase even has a built-in power bank for your smartphone and other devices, so you also won’t need to purchase any additional power supply for your trips.

On top of all other features, the suitcase also has a built-in scale, so that next time at the airport you will know just how much luggage you have, helping you save on airfare fees. Worried about theft? Nevertheless, the best part about the smart suitcase is the fact that it cost a rather affordable $399, which for a suitcase with that many features is a great price.

Neck Support

One of the accessories you will definitely need for your travel is neck support. If you have slept on a plane or in a vehicle, you are most probably familiar with the neck pain that comes from this experience. While not exactly a gadget, the Trtl Travel Pillow is a nice invention that lets you sleep comfortably be it on a plane, car, train, etc. With a built-in flexible neck support, the pillow can easily be put around your neck like a scarf. You will be able to forget the pain that comes from uncomfortable sleep and you will be able to enjoy your travel experience that much more.

Of course, the Trlt Pillow is not your only option. You might also want to check out accessories such as the Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow that lets your neck breathe, while you are sleeping. Also, there are even neck pillow kits, such as the AERIS Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow Kit that allow you to fully enjoy a comfortable sleep, while on your travels. An interesting pillow, especially if you prefer leaning forward is the Woollip Travel Pillow, which has been developed with the help of physiotherapists and yoga teachers to help deliver a comfortable sleep, while on a road. Whatever the case may be, a Neck Support is a must on your travel accessories list.

Your smartphone has almost everything you need in order to enjoy your time on a road to the fullest. However, even if you own a phablet, you are most probably familiar with the frustration it comes from reading from a smaller device that is in the palm of your hand. If you enjoy reading, then purchasing an E-Reader or a tablet as a travel accessory is a must. There are a number of great options available, depending on what exactly you are searching for in a device. In fact, a nice tablet can further help you enjoy your travels by letting you enjoy a nice movie or a game, while you are traveling.

Most tourists prefer devices such as iPads or E-Readers, such as the Amazon Kindle Voyage, but if you are more of an Android enthusiast, then you might consider purchasing a smaller tablet, such as the 8-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab S2. Whatever the case may be, the E-Reader or Tablet will help you enjoy all the activities you enjoy at home on a larger screen than your smartphone. What’s more, if you have a tablet and you own a keyboard for it, you might go further and finish the tasks you have been putting off for so long. That way you will better enjoy your vacation.

Nevertheless, the aforementioned four gadgets are some of the best on the market and you should definitely own them if you are traveling a lot. With them, you will not only be the most tech-savvy person on your flight, but you will also be able to enjoy your travel time better and you will be able to save up more time for your leisure activities.

Robert Everett: I am a freelance writer currently based in Chicago. Solving students career and university problems. Having interest in marketing and business.
My Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/roberteverett82
My Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/3/110029123750852456335

Six Tips for Cruising with Kids

Going on holiday with the kids is as equally rewarding as it can be frustrating. This is especially true if you are trying to travel to a range of different destinations. Corralling little ones onto flights can be tricky at the best of times and this is only exacerbated when you have multiple transfers and connecting flights to make. Fortunately, there’s one way to simplify the process and let the whole family travel to various places with ease – by taking a cruise.

By opting for a family cruise holiday, you just travel to the departure point, get comfy in your cabin and let the world come to you from the comfort of a luxury cruise liner. No longer the preserve of wealthy pensioners, cruise holidays are available to anyone. Whether you fancy touring the Mediterranean, The Caribbean, or even chillier climes – it’s up to you.

Don’t worry if you’ve never cruised before. It’s easy! And to make it even easier we’ve compiled a short list of tips for getting the most out of a cruise with kids. Read on.

Feel free to take the kitchen sink

It is received wisdom these days that it’s best to pack light when traveling. And usually this is the case. However, on a cruise you have the luxury of your cabin as a base of operations throughout the holiday. You don’t have to pack and repack (beyond a day bag for excursions). Combine this with the fact that there are not lots of shopping options on the seven seas, you don’t want to get caught short by forgetting any necessities. So, don’t worry about packing your suitcases a little fuller.

Also, while cruise ships are chock full of entertainment, there can still be a little downtime at sea. Beat the boredom by making sure you have plenty books and gizmos to keep the wee ones amused, as well as yourself.

Arrive at your departure point a day early

Missing a flight is a pain, but there’s always the next one to catch. This isn’t true of cruise ships. And a 60,000 ton luxury liner isn’t going to keep waiting if you’re late! Make sure you have plenty breathing room in case there are any travel hiccups by arriving at the departure point 24 hours before hand. It not only gives you a buffer, it also makes the trip out much less stressful.

Be picky with your cabin

Your cabin is where you’ll be for the duration of the trip, so make sure you pick the right one. Not all rooms are created equally and some may not have the facilities you need for your trip. If you require a room with a bath for example, you need to make sure you book one. If any of your family are prone to seasickness then be careful where the cabin is located. By choosing a room near the center of the ship, the effects of the sea are lessened and everyone will have a less-nauseas time while they get their sealegs.

Read up on the excursions available

Most cruise operators have a full list of excursions and activities posted well before they set sail. It pays to do your homework on these and choose the ones you want to do. Not only does it mean you’re well prepared, it also ensures you don’t miss out before they are fully booked.

Pack walkie talkies

There isn’t much phone reception in the middle of the ocean, so by packing walkie talkies you can keep in regular communication with the family when you’re in different parts of the ship. The kids will love it too!

Check the age requirements

Different cruise operators have different age policies and you need to know these before you head off. This doesn’t just include minimum ages for the cruise itself, but also the age requirements for kids clubs activities and baby sitting services – if the cruise offers them. A good rule of thumb is that if your child is potty trained they should be able to attend most kid focused activities, but make sure and check.

Why is Ukraine the best destination for travelers in Europe

Ukraine is often overlooked by European travelers, which is a pity as it’s a great destination to visit in Eastern Europe. However, in recent years the number of tourists who chose to discover Ukraine has increased significantly.

Many foreign travelers consider Ukraine to be difficult destination to travel to. Many of them are concerned about security issues, due to the conflict thats going on in the east part of the country. Sadly, the situation is not yet stable, but the conflict area is currently occupying remote eastern areas of the country. The conflict zone has no tendency toward expanding, which makes the rest of the territory of Ukraine (which is pretty vast) a safe destination to travel to.

Local people in Ukraine are really welcoming. International travelers used to worry about the language barrier, however the younger generation of Ukrainians speaks English now.

Comparing to other popular European travel destinations Ukraine remains relatively inexpensive country to visit. It still is considered one of the cheapest among the European countries. This includes an average price on accommodation, food and drinks, public transport and cabs, museums and galleries tickets and admission fees to the main tourist attractions. This is a pleasant thing when traveling on a budget.

Ukraine is a beautiful and vast country in Eastern Europe that boasts a supreme geographical position and authentic well-preserved culture, that is the reason our web destinations.com.ua considers Ukraine the best destination for travelers in Europe. Ukraine as a travel destination can offer numerous places to visit for curious and most spoiled travelers. There are ski resorts in the West and beautiful sandy beaches in the South, modern cities with vibrant nightlife and urban buzz as well as traditional authentic villages for eco-tourism fans.

In recent years, Ukraine is also living a busy cultural life. Various popular events put Ukraine on the international cultural map. Country’s festival calendar got exceptionally busy and offers events for different interests and tastes. Lviv Jazz Fest, which takes place every summer in Lviv, is now considered a major European Musical festival and gathers world famous musicians as well as thousands of jazz fans annually. Gastronomical and wine festivals celebrate the world-class food combining it with art, music, history and rich Ukrainian cultural heritage.

Travelers will be awed by well-preserved historical relics and unique nature landmarks scattered all over this vast country. Ukraine can truly bring the unforgettable travel experience.

Hershey Sweet Welcome Lights and Overnights #HersheyPA

Not sure what to do with the family this holiday season? Schedule some time in Hershey Park, it’s the perfect get away for the whole family: Hershey Park has something for everyone! Wondering where to stay while at Hershey? Don’t fret; Hershey has accommodations for every price point and style.
If your family is outdoorsy, try Hershey Park Camping Resort. You can book cabins, pitch a tent, or bring your RV.  So many housing options. But don’t think that you’ll miss out on the fun. There’s a shuttle that will take you to the park and weekends are  filled with family friendly activities.
Hershey Park Camping
These cabins are great. They sleep a whole family and have a bathroom and a small kitchen. And the porch! It would be great for watching the world go by, I think.
If roughing it isn’t your thing, you can try the Hershey Lodge.The Woodside Cottages at The Hotel Hershey make for a memorable holiday experience. The most premium accommodations at the Hotel, the Woodside Cottages feature larger bedrooms, world-class bathrooms and private outdoor entrances. Individual rooms or full cottages are available for reservations. Guests who reserve a full four- or six-bedroom cottage receive access to a multi-functional great room with cathedral ceilings, fireplace, microwave and wet bar.

Available at Hershey Lodge November 11 – December 29, 2016 (When Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is in operation)

Overnight packages during the holiday season include:

  • Christmas Candylane Package
  • Available at The Hotel Hershey November 25 – December 18, 2016 (Friday & Saturday nights)

    Package Includes: Deluxe accommodations, breakfast buffet with Santa per person, one-day admission to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane per person, admission for one vehicle to Hershey Sweet Lights, seasonal admission to Hershey Gardens, admission to The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

    • Lunch With Santa Package

    Available at The Hotel Hershey November 25 – December 18, 2016 (Friday nights)

    Package Includes: Deluxe accommodations, lunch buffet with Santa per person, one-day admission to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane per person, admission for one vehicle to Hershey Sweet Lights, seasonal admission to Hershey Gardens, admission to The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

New for 2016 is Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey Lodge. The new indoor pool complex includes two interactive indoor pools, Twizzlers Twists Slides, Reese’s Water Walk, water play structures and the Cocoa Cabana dining location with a full bar.
 
The pool has several lifeguards on duty so parents can chill out with the famous (chocolate) martinis at the bar. 
Need a little pampering? Then stay at The Hotel Hershey. The Spa at the Hotel Hershey will pamper you like you’ve never been pampered before. Leave the kids with the grandparents and indulge yourself in a little bit of grown up fun at The Hotel Hershey. It’s a world class resort and you could spend all day at The Spa pampering yourself! At the spa, known as The Chocolate Spa you can indulge in the steam room, sauna, an inhalation room, a silent meditation room, and of course you can get any chocolate treatment your little chocoholic heart desires. Want a whipped cocoa bath? It’s yours. Need a cocoa massage? Of course you do. Head over to their website to see all of the options. There are even non-chocolate options.
The following packages are available:

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey

  • Holiday Season Sampler

November 1 – January 31

$185 Monday -Thursday, $195 Fri-Sun

  • Peppermint Hot Chocolate Immersion

December 1 – January 31

$195 Monday -Thursday, $205 Fri-Sun

  • Peppermint Mocha Manicure & Pedicure

December 1 – February 28

$140 Monday -Thursday, $150 Fri-Sun

The Spa at Hotel Hershey Lounge

Here’s the lounge where you can rest while waiting for your appointment.  Hot water for hot chocolate and fresh cold water are available while you wait.

The decor of the spa is just as beautiful as you’d expect.

The Spa decor

This beautiful giant urn is also a quiet pool with tinkling water sounds for relaxation.

After your spa treatments you should totally indulge in the buffet with bellinis.

The spa bellini

Your first night at the park, I highly suggest checking out Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Christmas Candylane is bringing back all the past favorites, along with all the new additions that were added last season. Wildcat, sooperdooperLooper, Cocoa Cruiser and Laff Trakk will be open during Candylane (weather pending). With Laff Trakk sporting a special holiday theme inside the indoor glow-coaster. Two NEW additions will be added to the rides open in Candylane; Wild Mouse and Howler. Four million sparkling lights will illuminate and excite as you make your way through Hersheypark.
Hershey Candylane

A NEW holiday show will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit, get ready for A Music Box Christmas. In addition, some of everyone’s favorite Candylane activities will be returning, including: Santa and his live reindeer, Rudolph’s Skating Pond, and NOEL, the breathtaking light show.

Christmas Candylane begins Friday, November 11th and is open on select dates through Sunday, January 1, 2017. For operational hours and dates visit www.Hersheypark.com.

Don’t miss the reindeer while you’re there!
0062_hershey_bs3_0958
After you’ve had your fun at the park, drive through two miles of lighted displays from the comfort of your car in Hershey Sweet Lights. Enjoy illuminated holiday lights through the fields and wooded trails while listening to holiday music. Sweet Lights begins Friday, November 11th and is open on select dates through Sunday, January 1st.  For operational hours and dates visit www.Hersheypark.com.
sweetlights
When you’ve worn yourself out for the day, come back to your room and enjoy a special milk and cookies for kids or any one of the other delicious in-room amenity baskets available.
Hershey's Sweet welcome basket
Gift basket of yum.
cookies
Little kids (and the big ones) will love the extra touch of cookies and milk at bedtime.  The chocolate scented toiletries, and hershey kiss designs on the sheets and walls will have you dreaming of chocolate all night.
See the lights and spend the night in Hershey, PA; what a sweet weekend.
Disclaimer: Sweet Welcome was sponsored by HE&R and we received complimentary items and admission.

Hershey’s Sweet Welcome To Do and The Zoo (America) #HersheyPA

There is so much to do in Hershey Park. If you need a break from the rides and pampering you really should visit ZooAmerica.  ZooAmerica is an active zoo, educates the public about conservation and protection of animals native to North America.
One of the very interesting things you can do at ZooAmerica is to go on an after hours tour. During the after  hours tour you can visit nocturnal animals who are normally asleep during the day.
ZooAmerica_quail roadrunner
This is the space where the quail and roadrunner live. Also there are live owls flying around. It’s kinda creepy at first but the owls don’t bother you.
Part of the tour includes an educational segment.
chuckwalla
This little critter is called a chuckwalla. He’s a lizard. He came by to say hello but I declined to pet him. He seemed nice enough though.
The moment I had been waiting for was the chance to befriend an owl named Luna.
Luna the Owl
She didn’t bring my letter from Hogwarts but she did make friends with everyone. Her eye is damaged so she will never be able to live in the wild. That’s what is so great about ZooAmerica. They care for animals and also use them to teach.
On the tour we saw an alligator.
Zoo America alligator
This guy is an American Alligator. Don’t let that smile fool you. He was waiting for the snacks to come through the little door off camera.
We saw an ocelot, blood drinking bats, ferrets, coati, and snakes. At night they are active so we it was a special treat that doesn’t happen during the regular zoo hours.
The highlight of the tour was feeding Murphy and Chief, black bears. Murphy was especially friendly and hd learned hand signals to give kisses. He even held my hand.
ZooAmerica_Murphy
I think he likes me!
Did I mention we fed otters? So much to do at ZooAmerica; it’s fun for the whole family!

If your idea of live entertainment doesn’t include wild animals, you should totally check out Hershey Theatre. Amazing holiday shows will be featured at Hershey Theatre during the holiday season. The dates and times are listed below:

  • Straight No Chaser – December 4 at 2:30 and 7:30 PM
  • Elf – December 6-8 at 7:30 PM
  • The Piano Guys – December 10 at 3:00 and 8:00 PM

Visit www.HersheyEntertainment.com for tickets and more information.

The Hershey Story Museum

  • Little Elves Workshop – The elves have once again set up their workshop, where kids of all ages can create their own unique ornament out of chocolate clay.  Participants will roll, cut and ice their creations and design their own packaging. $5.00 per ornament; adults many accompany participating children at no charge.

Available select dates November 12 – January 1 at 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

  • Snowball Saturdays – Friendly indoor snowball fights are the centerpiece of this holiday event!  In addition, kids can visit with a snowman and Coco the Bear, and hear stories about wintertime fun. Free; admission to the Museum Experience not required.

Available December 3, 10 & 17.

  • Holiday-Themed Chocolate Lab Classes – Guests can enjoy a 45-minute class where they learn about chocolate and make their own chocolate treat. Ticket purchase required; children must be at least four years old to enter the lab. Class themes are as follows:
    • Candy Cane Bark, Chocolate Reindeer, Create a Kris Kringle and Make a Very Merry Bar

Available daily beginning November 12 – January 1, 2017, class times vary.

* Classes offered on Snowball Saturdays only (December 3, 10 & 17): Let it Snow Chocolate and Marshmallow Mischief.

  • NYE Bubble Wrap Stomps – Kids can celebrate the New Year with bubble wrap stomps on Saturday, December 31, 2016, at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Stomps take place in the museum’s patio, weather permitting. (In the event of inclement weather, stomps will take place in the museum’s Grand Lobby.) Free; admission to the Museum Experience not required.

Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction

Hershey’s Chocolate World is filled with great indoor family-fun activities:

  • Start your day the merry way with Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Saturdays & Sundays from November 11 through December 24.
  • See the unique and magical 8th annual Hershey’s Holiday Chocolate House! Every inch is covered in Hershey’s confectionery products and a sweet donation is made to Children’s Miracle Network.
  • Take a cozy trip on the Christmas Trolley Adventure which is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit with caroling, stories, and even a special visit from a certain jolly, old elf.
While at Chocolate World, we made our own personalized chocolate bars. First, they suit you up:
 choclate world
Then you choose your chocolate bar options and watch as the machine makes it.
chocolate world machine
Adds ingredients if you want them.
vibratory feeder
I did not add any sprinkles, or jimmies or anything. I’m a purist.
Finally your chocolate is cooled, then wrapped in a special box with your name on it.
Chocolate world wrapper
After that you pick up your bar where it’s wrapped in your unique design that you made and you’re ready to go.
Chocolate World finished
Mine isn’t very creative but I made it!
Not everything is chocolate themed at Hershey. Aside from the ZooAmerica, Hershey PA is home to Hershey Gardens, a 23 acre garden of roses. It was much too cold to tour the gardens while we visited, but we did visit the spectacular Butterfly Atrium. We saw so many beautiful butterflies up close; it was amazing.
Butterfly Atrium 1
You can get close up and personal with any butterfly you like.
Butterfly Atrium 2
They are so amazing! But don’t touch. And don’t try to sneak one home with you.
Such a great time in Hershey PA; so much to do and you can visit the zoo!

Never too old to get away: what to consider when an elderly loved one travels

More elderly people are traveling nowadays – and why not? All the same, there are things to consider if a loved one’s about to go on a long journey
Increasingly nowadays, owing to so many of us living longer, people are more active as they get older. Indeed, the elderly are also traveling far more than in years past and on their own – and why not? There’s no reason, so long as there aren’t serious health barriers to prevent it, why an older person shouldn’t embark on travel. Adventure in later life isn’t just enjoyable but can also be great for mental and physical health. And anyway, who has a right tell an older loved one what they should and shouldn’t do with their remaining years?

All the same, there are a few things to consider if your elderly mother, father, uncle, aunt, grandparent or friend is about to embark on a long journey…

Research

Whether your loved one is traveling alone or with others (or with you), it’s best to search for travel and accommodation options and to book them as soon as possible. This is because, for obvious ease of travel, you might want to aim for the most direct routes and/ or the shortest in travel duration. Plus, you’ll want to find and reserve suitable accommodation at the other end, of course.

 

Medication and supplements

It’s imperative to remember that, should the traveler be taking to the skies in a plane, all their prescription and over-the-counter medication is placed in a clear plastic bag. Plus, remember that that transportation staff have no obligation to help with medication, so you might want to suggest your loved one takes an alarm watch/ clock with them to alert them when they need to take their medication.

Additionally, it might be an idea for them (assuming they’re not used to traveling alone or even if they are) to try one or two supplements when they do so to ease the experience. For instance, One week flat Optibac (which may ease any abdominal bloating caused by trapped wind, food intolerance or stress) and Oxylift (aids natural body detoxification and gut cleansing) might be a good idea.

Security

Let’s be honest, elderly people can be a bit forgetful now and again; for instance, out of habit they may pop their wallet in their back pocket, forgetting they’re traveling somewhere unfamiliar where pickpockets will love nothing more than to pinch a wallet from someone’s back pocket. So it’s far from a bad idea for your loved one to use a money belt for cash, cards and valuables instead of a wallet or purse. It’s also a good idea to make sure they have a mobile phone – and that your number’s stored in its phonebook where they can find it.

Documents

Just in case the worst happens, it’s advisable for the traveler to have copies of any prescriptions they have and/ or statements of their specific medical conditions from their doctors with them. Also, it’s a good idea to have their passport, driver’s license (if applicable), travel insurance details, tickets and boarding pass (if available beforehand) photocopied to travel with them.

Aid at the airport

If your loved one’s using an airport and doing so on their own, you’ll want to make sure they receive assistance from the entrance right through the process of security, customs (if applicable), at the gate and on to the aircraft. There should be no extra cost for this assistance or wheelchair use, but be sure to request assistance before they arrive at the airport, otherwise its provision may not be possible.

Are they ready at the other end?

If the traveler will be making their way to family or friends, then it’s crucial their eventual hosts are prepared for their arrival and stay. They need to know what sort of support (or, if you prefer, caregiving) your loved one requires, as well as any particular dietary and medication requirements. Also, make sure they have all important travel insurance and legal documents with them should an emergency arise.