30 Eylül 2012 Pazar

Penguins on My Brain, Penguins on Parade in Australia

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Ok, we know, we know.... "Little Feet 2" will be in theatres before Christmas. But we are not the only ones with penguins on the brain.


A friend just told me about a new TV series called "Penguin Island," airing on Nat Geo WILD on November 12 and 13 as part of the network's all-day, all-weekend "Penguin Palooza."

This story makes sense, however, when you realize that this National Geographic show is all about the little penguins of Phillip Island (located just 90 minutes outside of Melbourne, Australia).

For families who want to go behind the scenes to get up-close-and-personal with the little penguins, Phillip Island Nature Park is running a day-long “Penguin Island Tour.” Phillip Island is endowed with all sorts of wonderful wildlife, and in fact, a family can spend the whole day and take in three different animal preserves. Their 3 Parks Pass provides discounted entry to the main event, the Penguin Parade; as well as the (adorable) Koala Conservation Centre; and the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, a working Australian farm.

The “Penguin Island Tour” highlights what most families come for, and it is priced at $90 AUD/person. This tour includes:

•    Ranger Guided Tour – highlighting the “love nests” featured in the documentary

•    Behind-the-scenes of research efforts on the island

•    Penguin Plus (reserved seating on an exclusive viewing platform for the Penguin Parade)

•    Hot drink and MP4 player

•    Penguin Island DVD

•    Penguin green screen photo experience

•    Tour limited to 10 people

Are you heading Down Under over the holidays? During December, January, Easter and long-weekends it is essential to pre-book tickets for the program. The penguins are estimated to return to their "home" at sunset (about 8pm at this time of year), so visitors are asked to come one hour beforehand. That will allow you time to show the kids the interactive displays in the Visitor Center, grab a snack, and saunter over to seats at the beach.

If you want to watch the action without the guided tour, Phillip Island Nature Park also offers great value family tickets (a package for 2 adults and 2 children ages 4-15) and private family tours. Children under 4 enter free, and the park is both stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Getting there is just part of the adventure.  Phillip Island is easily accessible by car or public bus from Melbourne, though many visitors choose to spend the night camping, or in one of the 100 accommodations (beachfront apartments, B & Bs, hotels, motels) at all price levels. For more information, check the site of the Phillip Island Information Centre or drop by their offices at 895 Phillip Island Tourist Rd, Newhaven, Victoria 3925 (Tel: 03 5956 7447 or 1300 366 422).


Of course, you'll also want to spend time in the wonderful city of Melbourne, so check out Family Travel Forum's Melbourne with Kids guide before planning your visit.
 

Spring Training Over Spring Break: Play Ball in Florida

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Is your family devastated that the World Series has ended and the boys of October will hang up their jerseys till next season?  If so, consider a vacation at the Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa, northern Palm Beach County’s only oceanfront AAA Four-Diamond resort.

For spring 2012, the Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa is welcoming guests to play ball and enjoy Florida’s only stadium that hosts two Spring Training teams – the Florida Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals.

For families and fans of the 20111 World Series winners, the resort has created a Diamond Spring Training package offering MLB fans an MVP experience with $350 in added value.Priced for a family of four, it starts at $539* per night and features an exclusive “Day at the Stadium” MVP experience that includes: 

•         A personal greeter meets you at curbside at Roger Dean Stadium (Visit their site for the 2012 Spring Training Game Schedule.)
•         Escorted behind-the-scenes tour of the Clubhouse and 10-acre Sports Complex
•         On-the-field batting practice experience for an up-close-and-personal look at players as they prepare for the game
•         Opportunity to throw the first pitch and enjoy being on the field during the pre-game festivities and National Anthem
•         Little leaguers (two children must be 13 and under) can sit in the dugout pre-game for photo and autograph opportunities

You'll need a place to stay, and this package also includes:
•         Overnight accommodations in a luxury ocean view two-bath Superior Suite
•         Breakfast each morning for up to four persons
•         Four Field Box Tickets
•         Welcome gift with a baseball, Sharpie, and Cracker Jacks

Alternatively, the Play Ball Spring Training package includes a room rate discount, daily breakfast, welcome gift and vouchers for Roger Dean Stadium:
•         10 percent discount on Best Available Rates (all room types)
•         $10 credit at Roger Dean Stadium with your spring training ticket (good for hot dogs and beverages)
•         Breakfast for two each morning
•         Welcome gift with a baseball, Sharpie, and Cracker Jacks

The 168-room resort has a classic Caribbean style and barefoot elegance that comes from mahogany furnishings, marble bathrooms, and private balconies to showcase stunning ocean views.  Resort amenities include a heated oceanfront swimming pool and whirlpool spa, an outdoor lounge area complete with cabana-style chairs, fire pit and dive-in movies, a fitness center offering private instruction, lighted tennis courts, game room, full-service 7,500-square-foot Spa, and three award-winning restaurants and dining options. The beach is rocky and wild, typical of this coastline, but worth mentioning for beach lovers.

There are other value Jupiter Beach & Spa Resort packages available beginning November 1, 2011, but keep in mind that Spring Training tickets won't go on sale until January 21, 2012.  Maybe this is one of those vacations to tuck under the Christmas tree?

For more information, please visit the Jupiter Beach Resort site.  For reservations, call 800/228-8810 and mention promo codes: BALL for the Play Ball and DIAMOND for the Diamond Spring Training Packages.  Guests also receive complimentary valet parking, high-speed Internet in all guest rooms, and no resort fee with both packages.   

*Package is based on single/double occupancy and has limited availability during Spring Training Home Games only.

Give Thanks for the Vacation from Turkey

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Family Getaways over the upcoming holidays mean you can really get away from some of those time-consuming, pesky chores. Imagine a Thanksgiving spent all together around a table where no one has to jump up to clear the soup bowls or refill the stuffing platter. Heaven?

If so, some of these get away deals may appeal for this season. Each has an element of pampering as well as a bit of homeyness too.

Florida:  Bask in the Sunshine at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point


East coasters can consider southwest Florida's Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Stillwater Beach as an ideal Black Friday retreat because it's so near great shopping.  They also have a fourth night free offer in place, which makes this luxury spot a good deal prior to the Christmas holidays. So come now, and take advantage of knowing you can shop ‘til you drop with your comfortable resort close by. 

Reporter Erin Boyle was recently at the resort, and loved it (read her review here), and this new Hyatt was also named one of the world’s top 100 hotels by Travel + Leisure.  On Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24 from noon to 8pm, they will put out a bountiful holiday buffet with all the trimmings, plus seasonal local fare; this feast is priced at $59 per adult and $27 per child aged five to 12, plus tax and service charge.  (Kids under 5 eat free.) The meal is followed up by live jazz and dancing for all ages. The next day, it's out the door to the 1.2-million-square-foot Coconut Mall. This pretty mall offers 113 stores, 25 restaurants and a boardwalk that is perfect for strolling.  Guests can also hunt for bargains at the nearby Miromar Outlets which features an assortment of luxury brands.

After a full day at the malls, weary shoppers can retreat to the resort’s Stillwater Spa, the beach or pools. To reserve your holiday getaway visit the site at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point or call 800/233-1234. Remember, guests who book four nights receive the 4th night free now through December 31, 2011.   Reference offer code SALE11. 

Mexico: The Pacific Coast at Punta Mita Gives Back for the Holidays


West coasters can give back over the Thanksgiving holiday (Nov. 22-23, 2011) at the very luxurious St. Regis Punta Mita Resort (about an hour north of the Puerto Vallarta airport) is offering families a chance to participate in the two-hour ArteMita Workshop [artemita.com] for a Good Cause. These workshops are led by famed Mexican contemporary artist Lizette Aguilar, who studied in Europe and, as an enthusiast of urban art and murals, is known for “El Atardecer,” an urban sculpture on display in a Jalisco housing development and “Rompiendo Estructuras,” a collection of bronze and concrete sculptures created exclusively for the Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita. 

The hands-on workshops are free for children and afterwards, the resort will host an exhibit of the students’ works for parents and resort guests. (Who wouldn't want a souvenir of this?)  Proceeds from any student work purchased will go to the Costa Verde International School in nearby Sayulita, a privately-funded school and the first in the area to go “green.” 

Of course, this luxury resort provides everything a family would need for a fun Thanksgiving vacation. Situated along the wild coastal stretch known as the Riviera Nayarit, the recently built St. Regis Punta Mita Resort is known for its worldly dining and fine amenities. Non-stop butlers service 89 spacious guest rooms and 31 suites tucked into classic, tile-roofed Mexican style casitas. A stunning golf course wraps around part of the property.   The region is packed with activities for adventure travelers and teens eager to get out into the pristine environment.

Families will enjoy the resort’s La Tortuga Children’s Club, group Spanish lessons, water activities, and whale watching, plus a host of amenities for mom and dad, including Remede Spa and two Jack Nicklaus golf courses.

Rates at The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort begin at $395 for a Deluxe Room Garden View over the Thanksgiving holiday.  Reservations can be made online at the St. Regis site or by calling 877/250-8871.

Let us know if choose to eat turkey when you're not at your in-laws!

Dorothy's Ruby Slippers Come Home to New York

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Have you ever dreamed of walking in someone else's shoes, perhaps Dorothy's slippers from "The Wizard of Oz?" This post is about a once in a lifetime opportunity for that certain mother or daughter... could that be you?


On December 5th in the Tea Room of New York's swanky Hotel Plaza Athénée (yes, a very long way from Kansas, Dorothy), you'll be able to dine on petit fours while ogling the actual Ruby Slippers worn by Judy Garland in the original "The Wizard of Oz." This unusual High Tea will take place from 4pm-6pm and costs $75 per person.

The private viewing of the red-sequined pumps (in the book they were silver but in those early Technicolor days the director declared they had to be red) marks their brief visit to New York City prior to being auctioned in California by Profiles in History. According to their owner, this pair was used when Dorothy clicks her heels three times to return to Kansas, stating “There’s no place like home.” The slippers are currently appraised in excess of $3 million and if you really really want them, auction information can be found on the website www.profilesinhistory.com.

"We are extremely proud to organize this magical afternoon which is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season," said Bernard Lackner, General Manager of the Plaza Athénée. "Our hotel has had a long history of welcoming some of the greatest movie stars from Hollywood. Hosting the Ruby Slippers is nothing short of hosting a moment of American movie history."

According to Mr. Lackner, all attendees will have a "unique opportunity to have an up close and personal look at the iconic pair of shoes." Alas, you will not be able to walk in them but the encounter is sure to be... magical.

To reserve your table at the Hotel Plaza Athénée, please visit the site or book with Cheryl Plonski at 212/606-4635.

I'm Dreaming of a Snowmass Family Holiday

To contact us Click HERE
Have you been following the monthly Families Dream Big vacation giveaways on MyFamilyTravels.com? If not, they're pretty cool, and this month the Big Dreamy Destination is Aspen Snowmass, Colorado.  If you play along, comment on winter sports, check in on Facebook, sign up for the e-newsletter or visit the partner sites www.TakingTheKids.com or www.TravelingMom.com, you get a chance to win.


But we know some of you are already planning to hit the slopes in Colorado this winter. And if you're lucky enough to be in or near Snowmass by New Year's Eve, here's a helpful roundup of the fun holiday activities -- many of them free or very low cost -- that you can expect when you're off the slopes.

From tree-lighting ceremonies to a torchlight parade to Santa’s magical presence, Snowmass is snow-covered in holiday cheer.

Free Kids Crafts  Every Tuesday & Thursday at 3:30-4:30 pm
Kids make free special handmade souvenirs of a Snowmass vacation including picture frames, pillows, and scarves to holiday ornaments.  Meet at the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center. 

Free Kids Sing-A-Longs & Storytelling Every Monday & Wednesday at 3:30-4:30pm
Kids gather around the campfire to hear some of the tallest tales in the West by master story tellers and sing with a guitar strumming cowboy.  Free for all ages.  Free s‘mores.

Letters to Santa  December 6-24
If your children have a last-minute Christmas wish, make sure the jolly old fellow hears about it by dropping off a note in his personal mailbox located on the Snowmass Village Mall. Selected letters are published in the local newspaper, the Snowmass Sun.

Maroon Bel Canto Children’s Chorus Christmas Concert December 12, 6pm
The Maroon Bel Canto Children’s Chorus, now in its 3rd season, performs a Christmas Concert at Snowmass Chapel. There is no charge for this heart-warming concert.

Anderson Ranch Arts Center Open House December 13 5pm to 9pm
For art lovers, there is an Open House & Live Art Auction at Anderson Ranch Arts Center (970.932-3181) which includes a tour of the art studios via candlelit walkways with hundreds of luminaries. The event is free and open to the public. Activities include children’s ornament decorating, a trunk show with personal appearances by artists – jewelry, ceramics, paintings and more, a Live auction of select artwork by nationally and internationally known artists to fund the Ranch's amazing work, and if you book ahead, a wonderful holiday dinner in the Ranch Café priced at $20.

Santa's Village & Carolers-a-Caroling  December 21-24, 2pm-4pm
The North Pole comes to the Snowmass Village Mall and Base Village when Santa’s magical village opens to hear the last minute requests of good girls and boys. Complimentary photos with Santa are offered daily. December 23rd and 24th carolers and a barber shop quartet stroll through the mall and Base Village singing favorite Christmas Carols.

Torchlight Parade with Fireworks  December 28 at 5pm
Whether viewer or participant, the annual torchlight parade down Snowmass’ slopes looks magnificently luminous!  Moms, dads and kids ages 8+ are invited to be part of the trail of light down the mountain. Free fireworks after the parade. For more information, stop by the Guest Services Information Desk in the Ticket Pavilion on the Snowmass Mall or call 970.923.0560.

Holiday Events at The Silvertree Hotel December 6-30
From the Loving Tree Ceremony on December 6th to the New Year’s Gala at the Cabaret Room, the Silvertree Hotel (800/837-4255) is decked out for the season.  Enjoy Holiday music in the lobby from December 12th through the 24th, visits with Santa from the 20th through the 24th and Christmas Eve with stories from Santa by the fireplace.  The kids can decorate gingerbread for free on December 23. Local authors, Jill Sheeley and Johnny Boyd tell stories on December 29th and 30th and the kids can decorate gingerbread cookies for free on the 23rd. Celebrate the festival of lights at The Silvertree Hotel. The Menorah is displayed in the lobby with plenty of dreidels and gelt for everyone to enjoy.

Snowmass Chapel December 24 at 7pm and 9pm
The Snowmass Chapel holds two candlelight protestant services with chamber orchestra, Christmas Handbell and Vocal Choirs on December 24 at 7pm and 9pm.  

New Year’s Eve Events for all Ages
Ring in the New Year in Snowmass with gourmet feasts at local restaurants to rockin’ live music and dancing into the wee hours of the night, Snowmass celebrations abound including: Artisan Handcrafted Cuisine and Sage Restaurant and Bar offer epicurean menus, intimate settings, and the ideal romantic way to celebrate the New Year.  The Silvertree Hotel hosts its 20thth Annual New Year’s Eve Party with party favors, champagne, open bar, music, dancing, balloon drop and pizza buffet at midnight.

29 Eylül 2012 Cumartesi

BEST Hotels for Snorkeling off the Beach in the Caribbean & Mexico

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Here is a fun list of tried & true resorts that offer fabulous snorkeling right off the beach! If you are booked at any one of these resorts, you might consider bringing your own snorkel & mask.


Plaza Resort Bonaire  Bonaire
Sunset House Cayman
Beaches Negril  Jamaica
Beaches Ocho Rios  Jamaica
Beaches Sandy Bay  Jamaica
Hotel St. Barths Isle de France St. Barths
The Buccaneer  St. Croix
Caneel Bay St. John
Westin St. John Resort & Villas  St. John
Anse Chastanet St. Lucia
Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas St. Thomas
Beaches Turks and Caicos Turks and Caicos
Coral Gardens Turks and Caicos
Akumal Beach Resort Mexico
Aventura Cove Palace Mexico
Aventura Spa Palace Mexico
Barcelo Maya Colonial Mexico
Cozumel Palace Mexico
Dreams Puerto Aventuras  Mexico
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa Mexico
El Dorado Seaside Suites Mexico
Gran Bahia Principe Akumal Mexico
Grand Palladium Riviera Maya Mexico
Hotel Jashita Mexico
The Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa Mexico


{If you'd like assistance booking your own snorkeling adventure to the Caribbean or Mexico, our travel consultants would be happy to help. Please contact us via info@caribbeanjourney.com or 866-236-1924}
Cheers,

NEW Website Launch for Caribbean Group Travel

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Super excited over here today.... last night we launched the new design of our Caribbean Group Travel website... 

{What do you think?} 
CaribbeanGroups.com features all of the details pertaining to the different types of groups we service. From Destination Weddings, to Incentive Trips and Girlfriend Getaways, our travel consultants know the best locations for each. 
We hope to hear from you soon! 
Enjoy,

Up to $355 Air Credit Discount for SANDALS NEGRIL

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Sandals Negril is my favorite Sandals Resort in Jamaica. Maybe its my personal connection to Negril (I was married in Negril) or maybe it's the 7 miles of pristine beach that is alive with arts & culture. Whatever it is, I LOVE Negril. 
Sandals Negril is the BEST all-inclusive option on the beach. In customary Sandals style, Sandals Negril takes all-inclusive to the next level including many items that other resorts charge surcharges for. 
FREE Air Credit!
Sandals Negril has two current air credit specials when flying from the U.S. and Canada
for travel Apr. 3, 2012 - Dec. 26, 2013. Booking Window: Now - Oct. 4, 2012

Offer:$150 Air Credit!
On stays of 3 to 5 nights

Offer:$355 Air Credit!
On stays of 6 nights or longer

Why not use your air credit savings to upgrade your room? Its always better to travel like a millionaire. Check out these rooms! 

Ready to go? 
{Our travel consultants will help you put together the perfect trip! info@caribbeanjourney.com or 866-236-1924}
Best,

Flying with a Baby?

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{photo from this great article}
Flying with a baby is stressful enough - not being aware of the policies below will only add to the commotion. So read on mamas & papas...
1. Children under age two who ride on a parent's lap, referred to as a lap-child, must still pay airline taxes. Therefore, it is important to disclose the presence of this child to your travel agent or airline, at time of booking. If not, you could be delayed at the airport ticket counter to the point that you are left to rush to your gate and/or perhaps miss your flight.

2. Another reason the airline absolutely must be aware of any lap-child prior to the flight is because they will need to ensure the parent is seated in a row equipped with an extra oxygen mask. Not every seat on every plane has an extra mask. Each aircraft has a different configuration. (Have your traveled with a lap-child before and arrived at the airport to find the airline changed your seat assignment? 9 times out of 10 this is because you had originally selected a row that did not have a mask available, or another parent with lap-child had selected that row before you.)

3. If the lap-child will have a birthday and turn two during your trip, you must pay for a full round trip ticket for them. The trip start and end prior to the child's second birthday or you will be forced to buy a ticket at the airport and risk your trip being cancelled as flights often sell out.

4. YES!!! Your baby does need a passport to travel internationally. 

Need help planning your family friendly vacation? Our travel consultants will handle all of the planning for you and make sure none of these important details are overlooked. Contact us for a custom quote - info@caribbeanjourney.com or 866-236-1924
Hope these tips are helpful! Safe travels!

Caribbean Food & Drink Festivals

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Its easy to associate the Caribbean with amazing food & fast flowing libations... but you can take the culinary experience up a notch by attending one of these fun foodie festivals! 
Barbados Food & Wine and Rum Festival:
Turks & Caicos Conch Festival:


Curacao Restaurant Week:


Grenada Rum & Beer Festival:

Our travel consultants provide a concierge level of vacation planning and would be happy to help you match your fall Caribbean travel plans to one of these festivals... just ask! info@caribbeanjourney.com or 866-236-1924

28 Eylül 2012 Cuma

Dorothy's Ruby Slippers Come Home to New York

To contact us Click HERE
Have you ever dreamed of walking in someone else's shoes, perhaps Dorothy's slippers from "The Wizard of Oz?" This post is about a once in a lifetime opportunity for that certain mother or daughter... could that be you?


On December 5th in the Tea Room of New York's swanky Hotel Plaza Athénée (yes, a very long way from Kansas, Dorothy), you'll be able to dine on petit fours while ogling the actual Ruby Slippers worn by Judy Garland in the original "The Wizard of Oz." This unusual High Tea will take place from 4pm-6pm and costs $75 per person.

The private viewing of the red-sequined pumps (in the book they were silver but in those early Technicolor days the director declared they had to be red) marks their brief visit to New York City prior to being auctioned in California by Profiles in History. According to their owner, this pair was used when Dorothy clicks her heels three times to return to Kansas, stating “There’s no place like home.” The slippers are currently appraised in excess of $3 million and if you really really want them, auction information can be found on the website www.profilesinhistory.com.

"We are extremely proud to organize this magical afternoon which is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season," said Bernard Lackner, General Manager of the Plaza Athénée. "Our hotel has had a long history of welcoming some of the greatest movie stars from Hollywood. Hosting the Ruby Slippers is nothing short of hosting a moment of American movie history."

According to Mr. Lackner, all attendees will have a "unique opportunity to have an up close and personal look at the iconic pair of shoes." Alas, you will not be able to walk in them but the encounter is sure to be... magical.

To reserve your table at the Hotel Plaza Athénée, please visit the site or book with Cheryl Plonski at 212/606-4635.

Breckenridge Rushes The Slopes with Thanksgiving Cheer

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Beating out some of its neighbors, the Breckenridge Ski Resort has opened 270 total acres of skiing and riding terrain in time for Thanksgiving. Since its the resort's 50th anniversary this season, just maybe they're trying to keep AARP away with some youthful energy!



The early opening also celebrates the new DoubleTree by Hilton Breckenridge (970/547-5550) resort slopeside, as well as the mountains' new Maggie Deck for hanging out in the Village base area.

According to the PR folks at Breck, a huge effort by the Breckenridge snowmaking team allowed them to open Peak 9 trails including Silverthorne, Crosscut and lower Sawmill. Guests staying on Peak 9 will have access to Peak 8 terrain via Quicksilver SuperChair and the Peak 8 SuperConnect. Skiers and riders will be able to ski back to Peak 9 via the Crosscut and Sawmill trails.

Located just steps away from the ski lifts on Peak 9, the brand new hotel emerged gloriously from the former the Great Divide Lodge. A full service ski resort, it has a large pool indoors and hot tub, with an outdoor pool for summer visits. There's convenient quick dining as well as more formal lunch options and the elegant 9600 Grill open to all mountain goers. It's also a pet friendly hotel that gives its loyalty program members free WiFi in all rooms.

Super deal for ski families:  To celebrate the opening of this full-service ski resort hotel (located at 550 Village Road, Breckenridge, CO 80424) and Breck's 50th Anni, Hilton Honorsmembers will earn 5,000 bonus points when staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Breckenridge for 3 nights or longer from November 1, 2011 through April 30, 2012. When we priced an early season visit, we found a really big room with two queens and breakfast for a family of four from only $173 per night. Great deal!

Best yet, if this sounds like your kind of family vacation, visit our partners at Family Travel Forum where you could win an all-expense paid learn-toski-or-ride vacation to Aspen/Snowmass for your whole family courtesy of Ski.com. Check it out!

Panda Family Flies to Scotland for the Holidays

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Talk about holiday surprises.  First it was the Ruby Slippers coming to town for a pre-Christmas showcase at New York's toney Plaza Athenee Hotel.  All done up and polished for a High Tea designed to inspire Mother-Daughter Lovefests.  And perhaps a shoe shopping spree at Manolo, Jimmy and Christian's...



Now it's our favorite cuddly, one we loved on our family vacation to China:  the Panda!

Working in conjunction with the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) and the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) in China, two pandas from Sichuan Province in China are being brought to Edinburgh for the pleasure and admiration of zoo-goers.

To make the trip safe and comfortable for them (and that's a must), our trusted FedEx Express will fly them non-stop from Chengdu Airport in China to Edinburgh Airport in Scotland on a specially-chartered Boeing 777F known as the "FedEx Panda Express."

The traveling panda family includes Tian Tian (甜甜, aka Sweetie), an 8-year-old female and Yang Guang (阳光, aka Sunshine), an 8-year-old male panda from Chengdu's Bifengxia Panda Base.  According to FedEx, who's been charged with loading them onto the world's largest twin-engine aircraft (see video this Boeing 777F being transformed for the flight), this is the first time in more than 17 years that giant pandas will reside in the United Kingdom. The UK's last giant panda, Ming Ming, left London Zoo to return to China on October 26, 1994.





Currently, conservationists estimate that only 1,600 pandas remain in the wild. Both Tian Tian and Yang Guang are part of global giant panda conservation programs, designed to increase the panda population.  These pandas are also part of a lucrative "rental" business between the China conservation groups and Western countries, says The New York Times, who can pay millions to have the crowd-pleasing creatures on multi-year contracts in their zoos.

For now, follow the Panda Family Blog  blog.fedex.com/panda-express at We'll come back to you with more of the load in process, family farewell departure and arrival of these two giant pandas soon...  Will there be bagpipes?

I'm Dreaming of a Snowmass Family Holiday

To contact us Click HERE
Have you been following the monthly Families Dream Big vacation giveaways on MyFamilyTravels.com? If not, they're pretty cool, and this month the Big Dreamy Destination is Aspen Snowmass, Colorado.  If you play along, comment on winter sports, check in on Facebook, sign up for the e-newsletter or visit the partner sites www.TakingTheKids.com or www.TravelingMom.com, you get a chance to win.


But we know some of you are already planning to hit the slopes in Colorado this winter. And if you're lucky enough to be in or near Snowmass by New Year's Eve, here's a helpful roundup of the fun holiday activities -- many of them free or very low cost -- that you can expect when you're off the slopes.

From tree-lighting ceremonies to a torchlight parade to Santa’s magical presence, Snowmass is snow-covered in holiday cheer.

Free Kids Crafts  Every Tuesday & Thursday at 3:30-4:30 pm
Kids make free special handmade souvenirs of a Snowmass vacation including picture frames, pillows, and scarves to holiday ornaments.  Meet at the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center. 

Free Kids Sing-A-Longs & Storytelling Every Monday & Wednesday at 3:30-4:30pm
Kids gather around the campfire to hear some of the tallest tales in the West by master story tellers and sing with a guitar strumming cowboy.  Free for all ages.  Free s‘mores.

Letters to Santa  December 6-24
If your children have a last-minute Christmas wish, make sure the jolly old fellow hears about it by dropping off a note in his personal mailbox located on the Snowmass Village Mall. Selected letters are published in the local newspaper, the Snowmass Sun.

Maroon Bel Canto Children’s Chorus Christmas Concert December 12, 6pm
The Maroon Bel Canto Children’s Chorus, now in its 3rd season, performs a Christmas Concert at Snowmass Chapel. There is no charge for this heart-warming concert.

Anderson Ranch Arts Center Open House December 13 5pm to 9pm
For art lovers, there is an Open House & Live Art Auction at Anderson Ranch Arts Center (970.932-3181) which includes a tour of the art studios via candlelit walkways with hundreds of luminaries. The event is free and open to the public. Activities include children’s ornament decorating, a trunk show with personal appearances by artists – jewelry, ceramics, paintings and more, a Live auction of select artwork by nationally and internationally known artists to fund the Ranch's amazing work, and if you book ahead, a wonderful holiday dinner in the Ranch Café priced at $20.

Santa's Village & Carolers-a-Caroling  December 21-24, 2pm-4pm
The North Pole comes to the Snowmass Village Mall and Base Village when Santa’s magical village opens to hear the last minute requests of good girls and boys. Complimentary photos with Santa are offered daily. December 23rd and 24th carolers and a barber shop quartet stroll through the mall and Base Village singing favorite Christmas Carols.

Torchlight Parade with Fireworks  December 28 at 5pm
Whether viewer or participant, the annual torchlight parade down Snowmass’ slopes looks magnificently luminous!  Moms, dads and kids ages 8+ are invited to be part of the trail of light down the mountain. Free fireworks after the parade. For more information, stop by the Guest Services Information Desk in the Ticket Pavilion on the Snowmass Mall or call 970.923.0560.

Holiday Events at The Silvertree Hotel December 6-30
From the Loving Tree Ceremony on December 6th to the New Year’s Gala at the Cabaret Room, the Silvertree Hotel (800/837-4255) is decked out for the season.  Enjoy Holiday music in the lobby from December 12th through the 24th, visits with Santa from the 20th through the 24th and Christmas Eve with stories from Santa by the fireplace.  The kids can decorate gingerbread for free on December 23. Local authors, Jill Sheeley and Johnny Boyd tell stories on December 29th and 30th and the kids can decorate gingerbread cookies for free on the 23rd. Celebrate the festival of lights at The Silvertree Hotel. The Menorah is displayed in the lobby with plenty of dreidels and gelt for everyone to enjoy.

Snowmass Chapel December 24 at 7pm and 9pm
The Snowmass Chapel holds two candlelight protestant services with chamber orchestra, Christmas Handbell and Vocal Choirs on December 24 at 7pm and 9pm.  

New Year’s Eve Events for all Ages
Ring in the New Year in Snowmass with gourmet feasts at local restaurants to rockin’ live music and dancing into the wee hours of the night, Snowmass celebrations abound including: Artisan Handcrafted Cuisine and Sage Restaurant and Bar offer epicurean menus, intimate settings, and the ideal romantic way to celebrate the New Year.  The Silvertree Hotel hosts its 20thth Annual New Year’s Eve Party with party favors, champagne, open bar, music, dancing, balloon drop and pizza buffet at midnight.

Decision Making in an Era of Too Many Choices

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We know that planning a family vacation when you have to satisfy several peoples' needs and worry about a budget, convenience, and good value can be stressful... if not totally overwhelming. This guest post from Jean Blackmer, author of MomSense: A Common-Sense Guide to Confident Mothering (and other books), deals with just this issue in daily life.
I stood in the produce section of the grocery store looking at the variety of peppers. I picked up a green one, examined it for brown spots and gave it a gentle squeeze to make sure it wasn't mushy. It felt solid so I put it in my cart and imagined howI might actually get my kids to eat something green other than a gummy worm.  Then I noticed the red, yellow and even orange peppers. Maybe I should buy one of each? I wondered. As I scanned the produce section I noticed another area where more peppers were displayed like colorful crayons - the organic section. Maybe I should buyorganic? I wondered for the millionth time. Could buying a pepper really become such a time-consuming, mind boggling decision? In our world today? Yes.A paradox exists: we are fortunate to have so many choices, but this often causes difficulty in decision-making and may lead to regret with decisions. In the book Paradox of Choice: Why More is Less, author Barry Schwartz builds a convincing case of howour culture of abundance robs us of satisfaction. "As the number of choices we face increases, freedom of choice eventually becomes a tyranny of choice. Routine decisions take so much time and attention that it becomes difficult to get through the day." A mom's day is already difficult enough, dealing with toddler meltdowns, sleep issues, food choices, sibling squabbling and (fill in the blank) ____________. How can a mama be confident in her decision making on these issues and so much more, and not get bogged down in the process? Here are some ideas:•       Decide what really matters. For example, if how to get your baby to sleep matters more to you than what type of applesauce to purchase then you'll spend more time and energy on the sleep solutions.•       Limit your choices. Limit yourself to looking at three different stores, ask only three different people you respect for advice, and visit only three reputable online sites for ideas on the decision you're dealing with.•       Don't compare your decisions to others. Each mom is as unique as her own finger print. What you decide may be different than your mother, sister or friend and that's ok. Trust you've made the right decision for your unique situation.•       Once you make a decision- decide to move on. Don't allow yourself to second guess your decision.  We all make mistakes and actually can learn from them. As moms we make practically as many decisions in a day as we take breaths, not only for ourselves but for our children too. Becoming confident in our decisions will help the whole family because confidence is contagious. "If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly and believingly, without a second thought." James 1:5-6
Jean Blackmer is also Publishing Manager for MOPS International, Mothers of Preschoolers and lives in Boulder, Colorado, with her husband, Zane, and their three sons.

27 Eylül 2012 Perşembe

HOTEL REVIEW: Royalton Hotel

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Trip Date: December 23-27, 2011
Location: New York City, New York

Beach Junkies Rating: (based of 5 stars)
Location: 5 / Service: 5 / Room: 5 / Ambiance: 5

Royalton Hotel NYC

First Impressions: We arrived at the hotel at 9:30 am after taking the train in from Newark Liberty Airport and walking from New York Penn Station (we will have a separate post of different ways you can commute to and from EWR. There were many different forum posts about this but I thought we would compile all our research into one post).  The one thing you have to remember is that Royalton does NOT have the red door that all the other travel sites show.  As you can see from the picture above, it is a sleek black door framed by beautiful columns supported by a gorgeous overhead with a tonal engraving of its name across it.  This is when you know you have booked at a boutique hotel. 


Location: The hotel is conveniently located on 44th between 5th and 6th avenue.  Steps away from tourist attractions such as Bryant Park, Rockerfeller Center, 5th Avenue, Times Square, Magnolia Bakery, MOMA, FAO Schwartz, Central Park and much much more.  It is close enough to all these locations but you don't get the noise, traffic and overall madness that a Midtown hotel normally gets.  The location is just perfect.


Royalton Hotel Lobby

Once we walked in, we were greeted with what we would call dramatics.  The lobby is just stunning.  This is one of the main reasons why we decided to go with this hotel.  To us, it was classic old New York with the dim lighting, fireplace, deep tones of brown and black leather seating accented with hyde and fur upholstered chairs.  Simply put, it was cozy, classy and sexy.

Sit by the cozy fire in the lobby after a long day

Two of the seating sections on the left was split by a huge fireplace (which came in handy after sitting on top of an open double decker tour bus) and just in front of it on your right hand side is the reception desk.

Check In: Since we arrived pretty early, we knew there was a 90% chance our room wouldn't be ready and we were right.  Royalton has a 12:00 pm check out and 3:00 pm check in.  Most travelers should be acquainted with those times since that is pretty much the standard times at most hotels and resorts.  We were quickly processed and asked for one of our cellphone numbers to notify us if our room would be ready earlier.  We handed off our luggage with the bell boy and off we went to explore NYC.
Room 602 King Loft Suite

Room: We were lucky enough to book a King Loft Suite at the Royalton.  Royalton has several room categories and we were probably at one of the bigger ones.  What many people might not know is that hotel rates in NYC during the Christmas Holidays are amazing and this room was also just that.  AMAZING! Once we walked in, we first noticed the extensive bar on our left hand side.  That is where you will find the electronic safe and iPod / iPhone dock.

Room 602 King Loft Suite
Room 602 King Loft Suite

Straight ahead was the King Size bed with a total of 6 down pillows and the most comfortable duvet we have ever slept with at a hotel.  Instead of night tables, Royalton had designed two tiered ports holes complete with a night light.  We found this most convenient since "A" loves to sleep with a light on and "M" doesn't.  This is where you will also find the phone and remote for the TV.


Room 602 King Loft Suite

Beside the bed is an extremely long sofa which was so comfortable to lie on after a day of walking.  We used this to relax, read or just to watch TV. Our room had a view of 44th street which wasn't that spectacular but the interior design of the Royalton actually made us forget there was an outside world.  At the end of the couch is the TV which can be pulled from the wall and you can angle it towards the bed if you wanted to watch TV there.


Royalton King Loft Suite Bathroom

The other stunner of this room was the bathroom.  The Loft King Suite came with a 5ft soaker tub with a rain shower head right in the middle.  The sink (left side of pic) and the vanity (right side of pic) was at either side of the tub.  We have to tell you.  This tub was definitely worth it.  Think about walking the streets of NYC all day during the winter.  This helped wear off the wear and tear of the day and made our transition from day to night a whole lot easier.  The only thing we wished was that there was bubble bath that we were able to use but we just bought some bath balms from the Lush store near Herald Square and we were good to go.  The one thing I loved about this bathroom was how they stored the hair dryer.  It was in a white garment bag, hung on a hook.  Simple and clean.  Robes can also be found in the closet and honestly were the most comfortable robes I have ever worn.  We wanted to buy two for us but forgot to ask how to during our stay.  The bathroom is stocked with Malin + Gotez products which were wonderful as well.

King Loft Suite Desk

Just outside the bathroom was the desk which had an iPad on it.  This is where you can browse Royaltons amenities and services that are available to you during your stay.  You can also use this to browse the internet and help you find directions on how to get to the places you want to go to.  On a side note internet is not included but can be purchased at $10/day for each device.

King Loft Suite fireplace at Royalton Hotel

Last but not least is the bedside fireplace.  Yes.  Bedside fireplace.  We highly recommend getting one when visiting NYC during the winter.  It made our nights so cozy.  Honestly we forgot we were in a hotel when it was lit.  A simple call to the front desk and they will bring up the engineer to bring up the log and light the fire for you.  The log lasts for about 3 hours so please don't call and have them light it when you are going to leave for dinner in an hour or two.  It's just a waste.  There is a glass barrier in front of the fire to protect any embers from flying out.

Thank you Royalton!

On our second day, we got a call from room service telling us that there was a plate of cookies that were being delivered to the room.  To our surprise it was a treat from Forty Four (the hotel restaurant) and it came with a note welcoming us to their property.  A simple gesture that went a LONG way with us.  "M" doesn't like cookies and he loved them.  That's how good they were.

Overall, we truly enjoyed our stay at the hotel.  This was the first time we ever stayed at a Morgans Hotel and it definitely won't be our last.  We are already planning a trip back to NYC and with no question, we want to return and stay at this hotel.  It felt like home for us and the staff is just wonderful.  They made our Christmas the most memorable one and for that, we would like to thank you.

Still not convinced?  See what others think here.

How We Ate Our Way Through NYC: Koi Restaurant | Lounge

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We were fortunate enough to have found some great restaurants around Midtown NYC.  Just before we left, we had a set plan (and reservations) as to where we were going to eat and when.  Things changed when we got there.  The reality of how much traffic there was around the area was just insane.  This was Christmas weekend after all and after dealing with the crowds all day, the last thing you want to do is sit in traffic just to get to dinner or walk in dress shoes and heels.  By the end of it all, we only kept one of the four reservations we initially made, but in the process, found some excellent ones.

Restaurant Name:
Koi Restaurant | Lounge
Located @ Bryant Park Hotel
40 West 40th Street
(212) 921-3330
 
Cuisine: Japanese
Price Rating: $$$
Beach Junkies Rating (based out of 5 stars):
Food: 4.5 / Service: 5 / Drinks: 4 / Atmosphere: 4

www.koirestaurant.com

This wasn't the first time we've eaten at Koi. I first ate at this restaurant three years ago on a trip to NYC with my friends.  We then went to Las Vegas the same year and that was when "A" tried it so we knew what to expect.

We have recommended this restaurant to a few people and all came back with glowing reviews BUT we all tell them to keep it light and share all the dishes.  Koi's hot dishes can be very savory and it can be too much sometimes just to eat that one dish yourself.  Trust us, this is the 3rd time we have eaten at this restaurant and our last visit there was our best experience yet.  Practice makes perfect.

Koi-Tini and Ginger Mojito

Cocktails: Koi-Tini & Ginger Mojito - Three years ago was the first time I tasted the Ginger Mojito. In that one sitting, I ordered four of them.  That's how good they are. Unfortunately, our visits after in Vegas was Ginger Mojito free. They didn't have them on the menu there and when we ate dinner this night, they didn't have it on the menu as well.  I asked the waiter if they served it and he said no.  However, a few minutes later, he came back and said that the bartender that has been at this location since day 1 and said he would make it for me. It was even better than I remembered it. As for the Koi-Tini, it wasn't anything spectacular. It basically was a cosmo but with sparkling wine.


Koi Crispy Rice topped w/ Spicy Tuna

First course: Koi Crispy Rice topped w/ Spicy Tuna - A must order!  Our first introduction to Koi's food was this and it should be everyone else's. An explosion of soft, crispy, juicy and spicy runs through the course of your palate once you take a bite of this goodness. We swear we can go to Koi and just eat this, but of course that won't be fun at all. If there is one thing you must order from their menu, it is this.

Rock Shrimp Ceviche and Yellowtail Sashimi

Second Course: Rock Shrimp Ceviche and Yellowtail Sashimi - We had always seen this on the menu but never opted to order it until now and we're glad we did.  The yellowtail sashimi at the bottom was fresh and delicious, and the rock shrimp was just right, not too soft and not too chewy.  Eating this though can be tricky but "A" figured out a way where you slide the chopsticks at both ends of the yellowtail and as you raise it, close the ends so that the rock shrimp is being cradled by the fish. I know it seems silly, but these dishes are meant to be eaten all at once so that all the flavors combine which makes the dish.

Baked Crab Roll



Third Course: Baked Crab Roll - Tthis was the one dish of the night that we could have done with out.  It didn't have that mix of flavors and textures we were looking for but it was still delicious none the less.

Miso Bronzed Black Cod

Fourth Course: Miso Bronzed Black Cod - Remember what I said that their hot dishes were savory. Well, this is one dish well worth sharing.  The cod is cooked to perfection and the skin was just absolutely wonderful.  It was a great mix of salty, sweet and savory.  This was our favorite meal of the night and having three light dishes before this meal balanced really well.

Japanese Mochi (pistachio and peanut butter/chocolate)

Dessert: Japanese Mochi - I absolutely love mochi.  Any flavor will do it for me. "A" on the other hand hates it and it was surprising to see how much she loved her peanut butter/chocolate mochi.

As I said earlier, this sitting was our best dining experience at Koi to date.  There is much more that we want to try on the menu that we want to try so it definitely won't be our last visit. 


How We Ate Our Way Through NYC: Bon Chon Chicken

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Restaurant Name:
Bon Chon Chicken
325 5th Avenue
New York, NY
(212) 686-8282 



Cuisine: Korean
Price Rating: $$
Beach Junkies Rating (based out of 5 stars):
Food: 4 / Service: 4 / Drinks: 4 / Atmosphere: 4

www.bonchon.com
In the same trip I discovered Koi three years ago, I stumbled upon Bon Chon Chicken.  We were at a friend's apartment and were lazy to go out and eat so we wanted something delivered. There in front of us was a menu for Bon Chon and we decided to try it.  It is now my must have while in NYC along with the Crispy Rice from Koi.  Unfortunately, we didn't take much pics of the food here since we were starving by the time we got there. I hope I can describe each thing perfectly.

Drinks: Blue Moon Beer & Coke -  We heard about Blue Moon beer from a friend of mine and thought I'd try it out and I quite enjoyed it.  It paired nicely with the food.

Sides: Kimchi Coleslaw & White Rice - Some of you might be thinking "Rice with wings?" but it's the best thing ever! Kimchi coleslaw was to die for.  Crunchy, gooey and spicy all in one bite. "A" ordered a side of hot sauce but never used it since the coleslaw gave enough kick for her.

Popcorn Shrimp & Onion Rings

Appetizer: Popcorn Shrimp & Onion Rings - This was not bad but it basically was your typical popcorn shrimp and onion rings.  Nothing special about it but the cocktail sauce that came with it had a good kick to it which was great. What we should've ordered here instead were the Bulgogi Tacos! We saw it on the menu after eating and regret not ordering it. Our server said it's her favorite thing on the menu.

Soy Garlic Drumsticks

Main: Small (5pcs) Bon Chon Soy Garlic Drumsticks - When we ordered this, we didn't know if it would be enough for the both of us since we were thinking these would be drumstick wings. Obviously we were wrong. These were the regular drumsticks and they were the larger kind too. The Soy Garlic that they glaze it with is just delicious and the drumsticks are fried to perfection.  Nice crispy layers of skin and soft white meat on the inside. Paired with the Kimchi Coleslaw, this thing will just scream flavors in your mouth.

There are two Bon Chon locations in Midtown, the second one being on W 38th Street. Oddly enough, that was the location we were aiming for but ended up at the one on 5th Ave.  We highly would recommend this place for lunch.  It wasn't busy at all and might have a harder time getting a table during dinner service.  We are definitely returning to try out those Bulgogi Tacos and I won't wait three years to have this again!

How We Ate Our Way Through NYC: La Masseria

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Restaurant Name:
Las Masseria
235 West 48th Street
New York, NY
(212) 582-2111

Cuisine: Italian
Price Rating: $$
Beach Junkies Rating (based out of 5 stars):
Food: 4 / Service: 4 / Drinks: 4 / Atmosphere: 4

As mentioned in a previous post, we had all our dinner reservation booked through Open Table. On Christmas, we had reserved at a Sake/Japanese bar but suddenly craved for authentic Italian food. We had no idea where to go and if it was even possible to get a last minute reservation on Christmas Eve, let alone figure out what would be open. What is the best solution? Ask the concierge or front desk at your hotel. Within minutes, we had a 8:45 pm dinner reservation at La Masseria. What wonders the front desk can do - we asked for an Italian restaurant walking distance around 8 pm - and we got it. There was no disappointment at all. We were satisfied and honestly, we would have never found this restaurant on our own.

We were seated almost instantly and since it was Christmas Eve and there were large family parties booked throughout the restaurant, we were seated very close to another couple (who were quite annoying but I tried my best not to let it ruin our dinner. We started off with some sparkling water and a glass of prosecco for "A" and red wine for "M". The waiter announced the daily specials for the evening and let me tell you it was a very long list.

I Cucuzielli Fritti Alla Pino

Appetizer. We were going to start off with salads but decided on trying the I Cucuzielli Fritti Alla Pino, Crispy Fried Zucchini. "A" was a little hesitant in ordering anything fried since we had fried chicken for lunch (see previous post) but after trying these slivers of fried goodness, there was no regrets. "A" had pictured sticks of deep fried zucchini. We have never had anything like it and would definitely recommend it as a starter.

Pasta special of the night - Lobster Ravioli

Mains. There are so many dishes on the menu but both of us are not big eater so we went with an entree each. "A" ordered the pasta special of the night, Lobster Ravioli. It was delicious with large chunks of lobster.
Spaghetti All Spugnito Di Pomodoro

"M" ordered the Spaghetti with cherry tomato sauce and fresh basil. Every time I go to an Italian restaurant, I always order spaghetti.  To me it's a good way to see how authentic the restaurant really is.  The simpler, the better and this was definitely one of the better ones I have had.

It would have been nice to order more dishes if we had the appetite or even if we had a little room for dessert. As you can see the pasta portions are quite large so make sure you don't over stuff yourself with the bread they give you once you sit down. If you want to eat some good Italian food in a family owned restaurant (no Olive Garden please), you must try Las Masseria and be sure to start off with the crispy fried zucchini.