The Hermitage Club of Southern Vermont

The Hermitage Club at Haystack Mountain is a premiere destination for any New England visitor or local. Southern Vermont is easily accessible, just two hours from Boston and four hours from NYC, and puts you right in the center of the East Coast’s only private ski resort. Members enjoy year round entertainment surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains.

family ski trip

Spa, dining, and luxury accommodations are a fixture at the Hermitage Club while providing a safe environment for outdoor and indoor activities on the 1,400 acre resort complete with private mountain. Ski slopes, bike and hiking trails offer access to the beautiful scenery. Seasonal programs, with age specific focuses and even day care for the little ones are available so that parents and older siblings can hit the slopes or trek the mountainside make this a perfect option for all family members.

family travel

There are multiple lodging options for visitors to meet any preference. The Vermont House is located in downtown Wilmington Vermont offering the historical experience of an 1850’s colonial inn or the Inn at Sawmill Farm where you can spend your night in the renovated Carriage House. The Brook Bound Inn is near the Hermitage Clubhouse and offers a variety of rooms and even full house rentals for larger groups. Pools for swimming, a golf course, tennis and basketball courts are just the beginning of the features.

covered road

Restaurants, bars, and other tasty stops are sprinkled across the six inns during winter operating days, as well as on the very side and top of the mountain. The Hermitage Inn features French inspired meals with a Vermont twist. Savor farm to table dining at the White House, which offers American favorites, or you can enjoy the taste of Italy at Ristorante Piacenza. Check scheduled hours (as well as seasonal hours of operation) as they vary for the different locations, like the Clubhouse and Mid-Mountain Cabin. They are tied to the ski operating schedule which you can also find online.

ski lodge

Skiers can use one of six ski lifts and have a choice of 45 trails across 194 skiable acres. Lessons for newbies and those who want to up their skills are available or if you want to pass on the downhill portion strap on your skis and enjoy the cross country variety. Interested in trying motorized sports? Snowmobiling, as well as classic winter fun such as tubing and ice-skating are some more winter activities you can experience at the Hermitage Club.

ski vermont

After your time exploring and dining, consider relaxing with a spa treatment or drink. Joining a fitness class will keep you moving, or you can take a rest and enjoy the artists taking part in the Heritage Club Concert Series. Whether you are searching for a break from a hectic schedule or to re-energize yourself, The Heritage Club gives members the ability to customize their experience and enjoy the best of Vermont.

snowtubing vermont

UPDATE- The resort has recently been shut down, but there are a lot of other resorts to choose from in Vermont.

Staying Healthy when Traveling Abroad with a Baby

family travel

When you have children and become a parent, you definitely don’t have to stop doing things that you did before. One of those things in particular is travel. There can be a bit of an idea that your wanderlust and travels has to stop when you’ve got a baby. But travel with children can be a really rewarding thing to do, as there are some amazing memories that you can make, as well as fun experiences that you can all do together. It isn’t always easy, and will be different to what you are used to, but it can most certainly be done.

One of the biggest stressors when traveling with a baby is that you want your baby to be healthy when you are away. The thought of having to visit a doctor or a hospital when you’re in a place that you don’t know, or where you don’t speak the language, can be stressful and not something that you want to do. So making sure that you are able to keep your baby well on your trip is such a good idea, to make sure that you can have the best trip possible. With all of that in mind, here are a few ideas and tips to help you be prepared and keep baby healthy and well when you travel.

See a Doctor Before You Go

 

If you are unsure about anything before you travel, then speaking to your doctor or pediatrician is a really good idea. It could be a good idea to talk about your travel plans, as well as checking on things like vaccinations, especially if your baby is young. Sites like this one could also help if you’re looking for information about vaccinations and travel with young children: https://www.fitfortravel.com/general-travel-health-advice/child-travellers. Your doctor might even give you some suggestions to keep your baby healthy as you go and travel.

 

Choose Flights Wisely

 

In order to keep your baby as healthy as possible, it is a really good idea to get flights that will fit in with their regular schedule and routine as much as possible. The logic behind this is that when your baby hasn’t had enough sleep, they can feel more run down and susceptible to germs, as well as just making them more unhappy. One day of sleep deprivation can impact their immune system, so it can be a small thing to do to make sure that you can reduce their risk of illness.

 

Take Your Own Products and Food

 

Depending on where you are going for your trip, it can be a good idea to take your own products, as well as food. If your baby is eating food, then having them keep eating foods that they are familiar with is a good idea. That can reduce the chance of them getting sickness, as well as something like being constipated. As for products, taking the usual things that you use for your baby, like wipes, shampoo, and any other medication is a really good idea. You don’t want to start using something that your baby isn’t used to as it could lead to something that you don’t want to deal with when away, like cradle cap. This site could be a good place to look if you need some advice on cradle cap, though: https://www.mustelausa.com/tips-for-preventing-and-treating-cradle-cap. Stick to what you (and the baby know) and then it can help to reduce your risk of getting sick.

 

Sun Safe

 

Staying safe in the sun is normal at home, but when you’re away, especially in a warm country abroad, then it can be something that is much more heightened. The sun can be much more intense and harmful when you’re in a hotter country. So as well as sunscreen, you need to think about keeping baby in the shade, keeping them cool, and avoiding things like blankets over a stroller that can make them overheat. Be sensible in a hot country and it will keep things much safer and healthier for you all.

 

Food Safety

 

Like packing your own food, there will be some things that you need to get from a store where you are. It could be fruit, vegetables, or somewhere that you choose to eat out at. But make sure that you are keeping food safe and only serving foods that you’re happy with. You should also check if you can drink the local tap water or if you need bottled water instead, and so on. Then you can reduce your risk of sickness.

Travels in and around Sacramento, California

California tourists know big city names like Sacramento, but a visit to Northern California offers more than one opportunity to enjoy the area. A great place for a classic road trip, Camino, Coloma, Columbia, Jamestown, Placerville, Sonora, and  Tuolumne County are full of attractions just around the next bend in the road.

Sacramento

Sacramento is one of California’s largest cities and full of family friendly attractions. Museums dedicated to such topics as transportation, art, and history can all be found here along with shops, restaurants, and “Old Sacramento, a registered national landmark and state historic park”. With the diverse offerings there is something that will appeal to every family member.

visit california

Trains, cars, or both? Sacramento is home to the California State Railroad Museum and California Auto Museum. Transportation and the area’s history are closely tied as the city was part of the transcontinental railroad and Pony Express. The Railroad Museum not only displays restored locomotives and train cars, they also feature “40 one-of-a kind exhibits”. Here you can learn about railroad history from 1850 to the trains we ride today. A mile down the road the Auto Museum is full of examples of more modern four wheeled transport. The collection features cars from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, originals and restorations.

california railroad

Art? The Crocker Art Museum is a perfect stop. Opening in 1885 the museum is a part of history too, the “first public art museum in the Western United States”.  Enjoy more than the art when visiting, there are also live events, tours, and classes for kids, adults, or the whole family. When planning your trip be sure to check out their Events Calendar on the site.

History? Old Town Sacramento Historic District is a living piece of the past. Shops once supplied miners in search of gold, now those historic buildings house shops and eateries that appeal to new visitors in the area. The Sacramento History Museum is there to expand your local knowledge or if you want to go back before the city was founded try the California State Indian Museum.

travel in california

California Gold Rush

Gold brought the original settlers to the region and now you can learn about the history and recapture the experience at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma Ca. James Marshall triggered the “largest migration in history” when he discovered gold in 1848. With a museum, gold panning, candle and rope making you can spend the afternoon living history.

Want more? Hangtown’s Gold Bug Park & Mine combines education and nature. Whether you take advantage of the hiking trails or investigate the two hard rock mines in the park, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about history and enjoy the Placerville countryside. Gold was becoming harder to find by 1852, this is what made mining become more popular. The only gold mines still owned by the state of California, you can take a tour into these two hard rock mines (either guided or self guided) 362 feet into Gold Bug Mine, as well as visit the black blacksmith shop, stamp mill, museum, and more.

gold mine

Looking for a full immersion into the Gold Rush? Columbia State Historic Park is the perfect answer. Costumed tour guides lead you through the preserved Mother Lode town, once the second largest city in California. Now home to an authentic stagecoach, locally made sarsaparilla soda (which is delightful and should be tried), a blacksmith’s forge, and saloon. “Columbia is a real town”, full time residents live the 1850’s lifestyle, practice the trades of the time, and you can join them to eat, drink, sleep, and be a part of living history.  Shops keep regular business hours, but the town never closes. No driving through though, cars are not allowed here. Visitors are hoofing it, by foot or horse back because this is the real deal historical experience. You can even stay overnight in guest houses and hotels, right on Main Street. This was an amazing experience, and one that you and your family will treasure.

jr ranger

Visit Apple Hill

The ranches and farms that make up Apple Hill is a top destination for food and fun. For every season, year round, they welcome visitors. From apples to berries, from pumpkins to pine trees for the holidays, Apple Hill tops the list of outdoor activities. Over 50 ranches and farms are part of Apple Hill. You can find details on the Apple Hill site. Here are the ones we visited.

travel california

Rainbow Orchard, which serves their specialty, “Hot Apple Cider Donuts”, is known for their Bake Shop and produce. A 3rd generation family farm they grow apples, pears, peaches, nectarines, and blueberries. Their farmers market is open in the fall, “Labor Day weekend and daily from September 10 through Thanksgiving weekend.” If you are looking for blueberry picking the season runs from early/mid June through mid/late July, and they are open Friday through Sunday.

trip to California

Harris Tree Farm has been operating in the community for over 150 years and 7 generations since 1857. Open all year from 9:30-4:30 this is the spot for fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, or picking a pumpkin or Christmas tree depending on the season.  If you get hungry a visit to Irene’s Kitchen will hook you up with pies, turnovers, jams, and butters. Their motto, “We believe in operating a sustainable farm and forest. By using local sustainably produced products you support a healthier economy, environment and community which benefits us all.” stands out.

apple picking

Abel’s Apple Acres combines beautiful views, hot BBQ, homemade fudge, candies, and of course apples. Best of all they are dog friendly, so if you are looking for a place for the whole family, two legged or four, this is it. Pony rides, the pumpkin patch, and a walk through maze add to the time spent enjoying all the edible goodies.  They are open to visitors “Labor Day Weekend to 3PM Christmas Eve”.  

 

 

STORY LAND’S BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR IS HERE!

New Hampshire theme park

After wrapping up a successful 65th season mid-October, Story Land welcomes the off season with its biggest sale yet! The annual Black Friday sale kicked off on November 5th, and as always, offers the deepest discounts on Story Land season passes, day tickets, and more!

ALL-NEW for 2019 – the Story Land Platinum Season Pass!  In addition to unlimited admission to Story Land and great perks like dining and retail discounts, the Platinum Season Pass grants the passholder unlimited admission to Living Shores Aquarium (livingshoresaquarium.com) from its opening in Spring of 2019 through the end of the year. Also exclusive to the Platinum Season Pass are one time use “Bring a Friend Free ANY Days”, where Platinum passholders can bring up to 3 friends to Story Land FREE! Shoppers can save $20 on the new Platinum Season Pass, $30 on Premium Season Passes and a whopping 40% off Basic Season Passes! All season passes entitle the passholder to unlimited admission to Story Land during the season, while Premium and Platinum passholders get lots of other fun perks. The full list of pass benefits can be found atstorylandnh.com/seasonpass. Season pass payment plans are available in 3 month or 6 month formats, with payments as low at $7.49. Shoppers can also save $16 off day tickets, which are valid any day of the 2019 season and make great gifts!

The FREE Preschool Play Pass is back for the 2019 season! The Preschool Play Pass grants complimentary admission to children ages 3-5 for the entire summer. “The Preschool Play Pass was a big hit with many families in 2018, and we look forward to offering this very affordable option again in 2019,” stated Lauren Hawkins, Director of Marketing. The guidelines and activation info for this pass can be found at storylandnh.com/prekpass, and all parents are urged to read all pass information before registering their children.

The Black Friday sale ends at midnight on December 4th, and these prices are can’t-miss. 2019 promises another summer of family fun, new events, and Story Land magic in the Land Where Fantasy Lives! Visit storylandnh.com for more info and to shop all the deals.

About Story Land and Palace Entertainment:

Story Land, located in New Hampshire’s beautiful White Mountains, is a premier children’s theme park that has entertained thousands of families with young children for over 60 years. Story Land is “Where Fantasy Lives” and features over 20 unique rides, exciting live shows, and favorite nursery rhyme animals set on 35 beautifully maintained and landscaped acres. Story Land is owned and operated by Palace Entertainment, one of the leading leisure park operators in the United States. Palace Entertainment owns and operates eight water parks, six theme parks, two animal parks, and five family entertainment centers across 10 different states. Palace Entertainment parks offer a wide range of family friendly rides, shows, miniature golf courses, and arcade games. For more information, please visit storylandnh.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Getaway

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Casino, their motto is “Expect the unexpected” and visitors should!

If you are planning a trip to Pennsylvania there is no better destination than the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Stay, dine, and adventure all at one location. You can’t go wrong and there are options for every family member, even the canine ones. Luxury and activity come together to offer stimulation and relaxation.

Pittsburgh resort

The first step is choosing the accommodations that work for you and your family. Nemacolin offers three rooming options, the Chateau Lafayette, Falling Rock, and their Lodge. Or if you want more they have townhouses and luxury vacation homes available. Traveling with a four legged companion? Try Nemacolin Wooflands Resort and Spa. No matter which you pick there is no wrong answer when every one is so lovely a retreat from the every day.

luxury resorts

Once you are on the grounds and your vacation has begun it is time to select between all of the possibilities Nemacolin has for its guests. Want to get some dirt on your boots? Try the Adventure Center. Hiking, bike rentals, paintball target practice, even a Jeep® Off-Road Driving Academy are some of the adventures that keep your feet on the ground. Or you can adventure up high. Fatbird SuperFlyer is over 3,000’ of dueling zip lines, or give the elevated Ropes Tour and Climbing Wall a try. Maybe keep it simple with a family round at the Fallingbrook Mini Golf Course.

Have Sippy Will Travel

Your kids can get so much more from their trip to the Nemacolin Wildlife Academy than just time in the outdoors. With a Safari Tour, on foot, or horseback, there are many ways to experience the wild life at Nemacolin. They are dedicated to giving a safe home to animals such as bison, zebra, a bengal tiger, lions, wolves and bears. There is also a nursery of more than 40 species of smaller animals like the two toed sloth, fennec foxes, rabbits and reptiles. There is always something new to learn and discover.

zoo in PA

Maybe an art class or tour is more your speed. Well there are enough options to keep you busy throughout your stay. Enjoy the Hardy Family Art Collection on display at the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort as you move around during your visit or really delve deep with the Indoor Curator’s Tour or Outdoor Sculpture Tour. Want to get your hands dirty? There are classes offered in ceramics, painting, and even stained glass. Take home a personal creation from your stay.

In the summer it’s pools and in the winter snow sports that will get you moving. Whether you are an expert skier or novice snowboarder the 6 slopes at Mystic Mountain has an option for you. Or try something really different and take a dog sled ride across the snow covered terrain. Every season has its own appeal at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

giant cookie

Now my favorite part of any vacation is the food. Delicious taste adventures after I have burned off calories with all the activities around the resort. With so many options at Nemacolin there was’t enough time to try them all! Looking for a Five Star dining experience? Lautrec at the Chateau Lafayette ranks amongst the top dining experiences anywhere in the country. Their Autumn restaurant specializes in farm to table meals that could not be fresher. There are also casual food options like Otis & Henry’s Bar & Grill to be enjoyed during your stay and even PJ’s Ice Cream Parlor.

No mater you culinary tastes or your appetite for adventure Nemacolin Woodlands Resort has you covered. Vacationing in Pennsylvania has been taken to a whole new level.

Learn more about Nemacolin Woodlands Resort on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Kennedy Space Center Astronaut Training

space camp

There are many reasons why actual space travel for civilians is quickly gaining momentum. Corporate ventures, like Mars One, Virginia Galactic and Elon Musk’s space-bound Tesla, have made such voyages closer to being a real possibility. Celebrities like Beyonce have reportedly put deposits on being one of the first on a commercial flight. Turmoil and pollution on this planet often makes escaping it a tempting option. Also, there is wide interest in STEM programs: phones and video games have created a universal audience and brought awareness to people of science aptitude they didn’t even know they had.

visit nasa

Now, thanks to NASA and the Kennedy Space Center, students can get hands-on training to go to Mars! The Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) is a special simulation of space walks, landing a capsule and more, to give a physical experience to complement the science they’ve been studying. After all, there’s so much more to exploring space than what’s on the page of a book. This gives students a real incentive to be able to achieve the exciting pinnacles of being an astronaut. Participants will take part in a Space Launch System rocket. They’ll also spend the day working on simulated Mars: collaborating with each other, doing engineering work and botany-gardening to supply food. So thought provoking, and the hands on experience gives you and your children a whole new perspective, and experience, to space and what astronauts deal with. 

meet an astronaut

So, what is it like to be an astronaut for a living? You can find out for yourself by attending the Heroes & Legends Astronaut Encounter. Every single day at the Space Center, you can meet an actual astronaut who has lived and worked in space. You can ask questions, shake hands and even pose together for an unforgettable photo. This is usually over a buffet style lunch, where the astronaut talks, shows photos, and gives examples as well as answers questions while you and your family eat. Afterward, queue up for a photo with the space hero (take your own, or the professional will take one for you and you can pick it up later). 

astronaut training camp

Kennedy Space Center is just 45 minutes from Orlando. They open daily at 9 am, but with so many exhibits, activities, IMAX movies and people to meet, you just might want to invest in one of their annual passes. They are also about 40 minutes from Cocoa Beach, another lovely option, and a good one for those looking to spend time outdoors and at the beaches of Florida. 

Escape the Cold- to the Best Beaches in America. Visit Desin, Florida

Now that the cold weather has arrived, you might be thinking about ways to escape it.  Consistently rated among the best beaches in Florida and in the USA (and even the world), you can’t go wrong with a visit to Destin, Florida. Known for it’s emerald green, yet totally clear water and white “sugar sand” powder soft beaches, Destin will give you the break from reality that you have been craving. If you have yet to make up your mind, let the beautiful scenery, amazing seafood, and endless opportunity for outdoor activities help you arrive to that conclusion.

best beaches

If you are a fan of seafood, you will be in a foodie paradise. Obviously the fare is as fresh as it gets, being right on the water. Part of Florida’s “panhandle” (along the Northwest of the state, most boardering the Gulf of Mexico, and yes- because it looks like a panhandle), people here take seafood seriously. You will find some of the most interesting and unique ways of cooking seafood you have had along the panhandle region, in my own experience. You might have had oysters, but I can guarantee you have not tried them all the ways you will find them here. It doesn’t’ matter if you prefer “tried and true” dishes or you are more of an adventurous eater, you won’t be disappointed in Destin.

beach restaurants

At The Crab Trap, you can eat outdoors or inside. I’d recommend out, as this restaurant has the most beautiful views of the beach and the Boardwalk below. There, watch beachgoers play vollyball or the waves roll in while you enjoy your meal. The ocean breeze is peaceful and welcome, and it’s a very relaxing way to spend your time out as a family. Located directly below you is The Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island, with shops, a small spray park, and other ways to while away your time. Let the kids run ahead of you or enjoy the water while you keep an eye on them. Great restaurant with great food, fantastic service (really, top notch), location, atmosphere, and views.  (crabtrapdestin.com)

fishing pier

Make sure you take the time to visit Okaloosa Island Pier after you eat; it’s about a block away. Not only the perfect spot to take a family photo, but you can also look for dolphins, fish, seabirds, or other marine life. You can also go fishing as well if you’d like.  I know, again with the views- but really, they are incredible.

destin aquaruim

Across the parking lot, in the same center, is the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park (gulfarium.com). It is a top Fort Walton Beach attraction, and perfect for families and animal lovers. This marine park houses animals like seals, turtles, alligators, fish, snakes, and much more. Learn from trainers and staff members about these animals, their care, and what they do in the wild. There are live shows at set times, and you can also sign up for animal encounters to feed penguins, snorkel with stingrays, and other options. Do this ahead of time so that you have your choice available to you at a time you are able to attend. 

SNUBA

We were definitely looking to spend as much time as we were able to outdoors. Getting as much vitamin D as you can while you can is always good, true? If you are looking for some outdoor adventure, book some time with Destin Snorkel & SNUBA Tour (destinsnorkel.com) Easily one of the coolest things we have done in a long time, this experience is part scuba, part snorkel, and perfect for almost any age and any level of swimmer.  Head over to the (very cool, save time to walk and shop along) boardwalk, where you will meet your SNUBA professional and get your snuba-suit on. Yes, it’s just a wetsuit and fins, but you will feel so much cooler thinking of it that way. Once you are ready, head onto the boat where you are driven to safe, calm, and clear waters. First, you will receive a 30-minute orientation where you are shown how to use all equipment and explanations are given, as well as questions answered. Then, you can swim and snorkel for a while. After that, you are able to dive up to 20 feet, with the rest of your group and your SNUBA instructor swimming along with you. Your mouthpiece is connected to an oxygen tank, and you are able to breathe fairly easily after you get used to it. You can see quite a variety of ocean life, and it’s a really awesome experience to be completely submerged underwater for such long stretches of time. Literally otherworldly, and very peaceful.  Not a great swimmer? Believe it or not, that’s OK. Got kids? Also fine. Call ahead and talk to them about restrictions, but there are far fewer then you might think. If you have never experienced SNUBA, or are thinking about SCUBA diving but have not yet, you must try this. An absolute “must try” experience for anyone. 

scuba diving

While you are in the area, and you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Harbor Docks for some lunch. This Destin seafood restaurant staple has been locally sourcing food for more than 35 years, and you can really sense the pride and connection to the community. The menu offers only fresh, locally grown or locally caught options and flavors. Harbor Docks prides themselves on their long established relationships with local growers, fisher people, and seafood markets when at all possible.  In addition, you will find an unusual for the area cooking style, brought to you by Yoshia Eddings (sushi chef) as well as Dang McCormick, who is from Chiang Mai, Thailand, and runs the kitchen. There is not a ton of Asian influence in the area, and added nice variety. 

airboat

For an interesting way to see some of the local landscapes, Destin Airboat Tour offers informative tours, views you won’t see many other ways, and the enjoyment of riding in an airboat (destinairboat.com). The kids will really love this. The 6 passenger capacity airboat’s  owner and operator, Captain Frank, has been described as “a crusty Ozark Mountain Hillbilly with a sense of humor and love of nature”.  I don’t disagree- he is definitely a character, and amusing. Again, the kids will get a kick out of him. They will get a turn to drive the boat as well if they want (anyone can, should they like to), and my own kids gladly took the opportunity. Captain Frank is also the proud owner of the only mobile, floating chapel I have ever seen, and should you be looking to get married, he can spirit you off to do so. In a floating church. Really. (That’s enterprising, no?)

Florida organic

Some of the best food we ate while in Florida was at this “off the beaten path” place called Café Organic. The food was local when possible, organic, natural, and delightful. The menu changes seasonally and based on what is available from the organic, local farmers they work with. Best part? They didn’t even overcharge for the goodness and sustainability factor. A little out of the way, but entirely worth it, the food was amazing, and tasted as good as it was for you. The owners, chiropractors, make all the food from scratch and also still practice, and host other events such as yoga and tai chi on the property. No, not in the restaurant, but next door. There is also a food co-op for locals to participate in. These people are the embodiment of practicing what they preach (or “you are what you eat”, choose a saying you prefer, they both work).  Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, etc? No problem. You won’t have a problem finding something you can eat here, and multiple options, even. Meat eater? Also no problem- everything goes here, as long as it’s healthy and tastes good. (cafeorganicfwb.com)

paddle boarding

Get outside and stay outside, if you know what’s good for you! Have you ever tried Paddleboarding? Also called SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard), it is a great way to be outside and active. It’s not as easy as it looks- think yoga on water. As long as you have decent balance, you will be OK. Don’t really? That’s also OK- you will just fall in a few times while you get used to it. This has become a favorite activity of ours, and one we have brought numerous friends out to do with us. If you have not tried it, do yourself a favor. If you have, all the more reason to head out with the Paddle Tribe Company. (paddletribecompany.com) The waters are lovely to glide through, and you will enjoy several different types of waters and scenery during your time out. No matter if you are a first timer or you’ve been out often, this is a fun time out and a good way to experience some of Destin’s topography. It’s also a killer workout, keep off some of that vacation weight, woot!

play outside

The Paddle Tribe Company is located directly outside LuLu’s Destin, a beachfront restaurant that often has live entertainment in addition to it’s excellent food and scenery (Lulubuffett.com). While you wait for your food to arrive (and of course, the seafood options are innumerous), the kids can play on the beach, which is outfitted with sand toys and games like cornhole. Parents can play as well, or they can enjoy some “chill” time, whatever works for you. 

lulu's destin

None of this even begins to take into account the time you can spend relaxing poolside or at a dazzling Destin beach, where you will no doubt want to park yourself for at least part of your trip. There is so much to see and do in Destin and the surrounding area, that you will be hard pressed to find a reason NOT to visit. Some of the best beaches in the world, fantastic seafood, endless outdoor activities, friendly local service, all of which makes your family vacation easy to plan and stress free.  Check out a few of the links, you will be searching for flights in no time.

best seafood

Saving Your Sanity: Tips For Flying With Children

travel with kids

Most parents would agree that traveling with young children is stressful. Children, as a rule, do not like to be enclosed in limited spaces for long periods of time. This, in addition to the other discomforts of air travel (such as airplane turbulence and ear-aches), tend to make them irritable passengers.

Helpful tips for planning airplane trips with children before the flight

Book reasonable flights

A long-haul flight is not a great idea for toddlers or younger children. Rather than booking a long direct flight, it is advisable to break the journey with connecting flights. Stopovers can be a great opportunity for parents to relax and the kids to stretch their legs and get excited about the airports and duty-free shopping.

Choose good seats

It is important to book the flight early so you can have a choice of great seats. Seats on the aisle rows are usually best for people traveling with children. Also, look out for seats with wider leg room and close proximity to the airplane restrooms.

Parking

If you’re parking at the airport, you can avoid expensive parking charges by reserving a parking spot close to the airport. This can ensure a smooth transition during departure and arrival. Got Parking is a great site where you can search, compare and reserve parking near the airport. You will also have 24/7 shuttle service and security cameras to keep things safe while you are away. 

Pack effectively

It’s usually helpful to make a list of items that should be present in the carry-on bag. By writing a list, you make sure that important things are not left behind. Important items within the carry on should include:

  • Food and snacks such as sandwiches, fruit, and crackers
  • Any prescription medication that your child needs
  • Diapers for younger children
  • Change of clothing
  • Toiletries
  • Favorite games, books, coloring books, and crayons
  • Favorite small toys and puzzles
  • Earplugs

On the day of the flight

  • Leave early enough

It is important to arrive at the airport early because of the waits at the security gates. For early morning flights, ensure that the kids go to bed early on the day before the flight so they can wake up refreshed and excited for the trip.

During the flight

There are several activities that can be planned to keep children occupied and entertained during the flight. Some popular activities include:

Magnetic games

These are affordable travel games made of magnetic game pieces that stick to the game board. With a variety of board games like chess, checkers, and bingo, kids can be kept occupied for hours.

Books

Older kids can choose the books they want to bring along during the flight. For younger kids, reading a favorite book can keep them entertained and on their seats.

Coloring books and crayons

Coloring books and crayons are important items that can keep children entertained during air travel. Some airlines may also provide coloring books or crayons for their children passengers.

Toys

Surprise kids during the flight with a new toy or small stuffed animal. This small and inexpensive surprise can be delightful to children.

Playing Cards

Bring along a deck of cards and play fun family games such as Go Fish, Uno or Monopoly.

Guess Who

This fun guessing game can be accomplished with Post It notes. You can make everyone write the names of 3 people on different post-it notes. All the notes are then put into a hat and each person takes turns pasting the note on their forehead. The person wearing the note can then ask up to 20 guessing questions to find out the person written on their forehead.

Portable DVD player, favorite movies and video games

If iPads or other electronic devices are allowed during the flight, downloading your kid’s favorite video games will keep them entertained for hours on end. And, as always, they will love to watch their favorite movies on the DVD player.

In-flight entertainment

Most airplanes usually have in-flight entertainment for children. Check the kid’s section for their selection of kid-friendly movies, music and video games that can be enjoyed in the air.

Check with the airline

Always ensure to call the airline ahead for any special requests. For children with food allergies, it’s important to inform the airline so they can make special food provisions.

For parents planning airplane travel in the upcoming holiday period, a combination of these age-appropriate strategies can be used to make airplane travel a delightful experience for the entire family.