• Home
  • About Us/Contact Us
  • Useful Links
  • Work with us
  • Where else can you see us?
  • Home
  • Travel Destinations »
    • USA
    • Central America
    • Southeast Asia
    • Europe
    • Australia
  • Travel Tips
  • Travel Lodging
  • Travel Schooling
  • Digital Nomads
  • Travel Inspiration
  • Family Travel Blog »
    • About Us
  • Pinterest
  • Steemit
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
  • Twitter
  • Facebook

Current location

Big Island, Hawaii
  • Popular Posts
  • Recent
  • Comments
  • Travel Tips: Outfit Ideas for a Seasoned Traveler
  • 5 Best Places for Kids in Costa Rica
  • 10 Helpful Tips for Planning a Trip the Whole Family will love
  • How to Record Great Video Footage on a Vacation
  • Best Travel Adventures in 2017
  • Great Tips for Planning a Trip to Riyadh and Why You Should Get Out There
  • 7 Useful Tips to Produce a Holiday Drone Video
  • Realistic Ways to Save Money for Travel

Recommended Links

  • Make Money with Your Travel Blog
  • Search Budget Family Hotels
  • Visit NewYork.com for low prices on New York City tours and attractions

Top Family Travel Blogs to Follow for 2014

Drone in action
Drones are becoming increasingly common, drawing new laws worldwide. In individual countries, drone law is evolving and it can be complicated to know and understand where drone use is allowed and how much freedom is given to the video maker. Drones are not toys, they are tools that must be used delicately and the laws governing them (different for each country) must be respected.

The local drone legislation is the duty of every vlogger and video maker: for if they are not obeyed can lead to facing a penalty. Making drone videos are growing popular and the audience seems to like it. If you are also an upcoming drone video maker, then you have come to the right place in search of guidance!

In this article, we will discuss some useful tips to produce a holiday drone video. If you're looking to learn more about recording videos from the ground see our other post.

7 useful tips to produce a holiday drone video


Go Slow
Slow shooting is film-based which generates the impression of shooting from higher platforms like helicopters. It would certainly increase the work's quality efficiency. Slowly, you can even monitor the video you seek to record and create it. Slow shooting reciprocates stability and you can also change your production once you have a stable video. Never rush your shots because perfection is achieved through patience.

Flying Low for Cinematic Experience
Low and slow-mo shots are always seen as appealing and professional. Low flight and slowly increasing altitude is an excellent way to create your video, irrespective of whether you want to pose a landscape or a city skyline. Curiosity builds up and the viewer wants to participate. You can also slowly increase the altitude and in order to not bore your audience, you can hyper-lapse it to create a great effect.

Aerial Drone Shot

Keep a Spare Battery
If you’re going wilderness shooting or even going to the park to get a bird’s eye view of the city, you wouldn’t want to end your shoot because of a low battery. In order to avoid an unforeseen end to a great trip, be sure to add an extra battery to your packing list for your drone and stroll the sceneries without a problem!

Shoot RAW
When you want to produce high-end films, you often have to rely on aftercare for imaginative film effects. Shooting in RAW is where it all starts. No film is made in on the fly, except maybe posting Instagram videos from your phone, of course. RAW shooting offers you the chance to boost the accuracy of your photos/videos and present your audience with high-quality stuff first hand. Don't think about anything else when you are uploading your shots for the first time.

Get a Professional Edit
No one wants a poor editor on the wheels of your great video! Make sure you edit the videos you made professionally or hire a professional video editor because if a poor edit is performed it can ruin the time you put into recording it. Don’t back out on the video edit because post-processing for lights, shaders, textures, HDR and many more factors are responsible for a good drone video. Some people prefer to do their own Drone video editing while some like to hire a professional to make the most of their video.

A good edit can make or break a done video's popularity, so be sure to take some time to either learn more about the editing process or look into hiring someone to make sure your holiday drone video is as great as it can be.

Aerial Island Shot

Shaking is a turnoff

Constantly shaking the camera while recording is very unappealing to the viewers. It would be best to get a drone camera with stabilizers so that you don’t constantly shake in the footage, be sure to fly straight and do not cross windy paths in your video. The wind is sometimes unavoidable, but you can keep track of the weather before you shoot. Try and keep your drone as steady as possible with the controls. This may be most difficult depending on the stability of your drone so be sure to consider that as well if you are just getting into drone videography.

While you can check the weather predictions, the weather is highly unpredictable and wind can interfere without warning, in such cases it is best to cut that portion out from your final video no matter the beautiful scenery it caught in that moment. The shaking can take away all the attention from your video and is very unattractive for your viewers.

Adding Music and Effects
As mentioned above, editing is a major part of the video to make it appealing. If you caught great shots but your editing is weak then the whole video can be seen as bad quality. Adding music also plays a major role in making the video appealing.

The sound effects applied to the video often vary significantly, changing camera positions due to the inserted music provides a rather enticing environment. If you introduce a trance soundtrack, make sure any beat in the trance is placed appropriately with the video.

Music plays a significant role in the film, some videos used soundtracks to suit the listener's heart rhythm and viewers didn't get it, but they became curious when they saw these videos. A video with the appropriate music has been known to draw people's attention. Music changes the whole experience of viewing the video so it has a huge role in making something appealing or unappealing to the viewers.

We hope this guide will help you in your effort to get into making drone videos. Just like any art form, it can take some time to master, but if it is something you enjoy doing it is well worth the practice. And you will end up with some magnificent footage. 

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
The holidays are a wonderful time for families of all cultures to enjoy each other's company. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, there's nothing like the joy of giving and spending time with loved ones. There are many ways to go about that. Some prefer to stay at home for a more traditional celebration. While others like to travel someplace new with the family over the holidays.

Picking a location for a Christmas vacation depends a lot on preference. If you're looking for a warm sunny get away from the cold then a Carribean beach trip or Cruise could be perfect for you. And if you love the snow and everything that comes with it, a European ski trip could be in your future. Not to mention the more unique ideas like watching the northern lights dance across the sky in Norway.

The 2019 holidays may be over, but that doesn't mean you can't start planning for 2020. This post is meant to be a brief look into the many options for you to choose from. The infographic below will give you some ideas to get you started.

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Families

Click for more information
A vacation could be the perfect gift for the whole family to enjoy. It can be anything from ice skating in New York City during Christmas time to basking in the sun on a white-sand beach. And if it turns out to be a family tradition for you, there are so many other options to choose from for years to come.

We hope this infographic on Christmas Vacation Ideas for Families Looking to Travel in 2020 helps you come up with your next big holiday adventure!

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!

Outfit Ideas for a seasoned traveler

Clothes on a rack
When you have done a lot of traveling, the way you pack, dress, and deal with airports changes pretty dramatically. As a seasoned traveler, you gain the ability to notice the other seasoned travelers on your journeys. You realize that putting on your best outfit and spending a couple of hours doing your hair and makeup is just not practical.

Sure, we would all like to look like Rihanna when we step down the plane steps, is it worth the effort? Of course not. Dealing with tight dresses heels and makeup during a 10-hour flight is a nightmare. When you travel often, you begin to do things differently. If you are becoming a seasoned traveler, we have some great tips and ideas to help you look your best while keeping it minimal.

Stylish and useful sunglasses
Sunglasses
To begin with, you need to make sure you own a pair of versatile sunglasses. Sunglasses are the easiest way to flaunt some style and fashion sense without any effort at all. Get a pair that will look great with any outfit, an oversized or round-rimmed pair usually tie any outfit together. If you are in need of a new pair and are not sure where to go, we recommend EyeBuyDirect, and they have some great styles that won’t break the bank.

Staple items
Being a fashion-conscious traveler is all about choosing items that are interchangeable. For example, there is no point taking a fur coat for the one time you may get to wear it.

Here is a list of items that every traveler should have in their suitcase or backpack.
  • 1 x White 1x Black 1 x Brightly Colored T-Shirt (We suggest merino wool, they are the best)
  • 1 X Lightweight jacket or cardigan
  • 1 x Pair of smart fitted joggers
  • 1 x Pair of fitted stretch pants
  • 1 x Pair of smart sneakers
  • 1 x Pair of flats
  • 1 x Signature piece of jewelry
  • 1 x Accessory
We aren’t saying you can’t take any more than this, but if you want to travel as minimalist as possible, this is a good place to start. With this list, you should be equipped to deal with almost any situation. Remember, if the situation calls for you to wear a formal ball gown, you can always head to a thrift store to find something while you are traveling. This saves you from carrying a full ball gown around for the other 99% of your trip. Not to mention the hidden gems waiting to be found in thrift stores around the world.

Layering
The best way to prepare for any temperature is to make sure you have a range of easy to change layers. There is no point in wearing a thick coat with a t-shirt underneath. Your only option would be to take the coat off, and it may not be warm enough for just a t-shirt.

A smart traveler packs and wears layers. An example would be a t-shirt with a cardigan over the top and a lightweight jacket. You can easily strip a layer or two off this style at a time, and this will ensure you can travel in comfort.

Traveling light does not need to mean you need to lose your style and fashion sense; you just have to be smarter about it. Hopefully, our tips above help you feel and look your best on your next big adventure!

Do you have a favorite clothing item for travel? Let us know in the comments!

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
Traveling, breaking barriers and expanding horizons. People of all ages and nationalities appreciate each day more with this new thought and way of living. Money might not be an issue for some travelers, but it can be troubling for others. With the rush of the nowadays society, the stressful way of life and with each individual questioning more and more what the meaning and purpose of life are, many choose to take refuge in traveling.

This topic doesn’t need to be a nightmare or an inconvenience for people’s wallets. Besides the several international projects that allow people to travel, while volunteering or working, Solidarity Corps or Au pair, for example, there are other ways to save up and fatten the piggy bank.

Here are some Realistic Ways to Save Money for Travel

First of all, creating a saving plan is necessary to reach the goals you've set for your travel adventures. Follow these realistic ways to save money for travel or anything you're trying to save for!


Assessment – Compare your trip plan to the reality of your financial status. Is it feasible? Or, for now, it’s a bigger conquest to achieve such a destination? Make hard decisions, don’t run from them. Be honest with yourself. Once you have collected an overall idea of the trip costs, compile a spreadsheet that lists your income and your expenses. Study how it all stacks up. Write up at least 6 months' worth to have a better projection of what your reality is.

Set the goal – Long and short-term goals are meant to be followed. List them and stick to it. Do not be dishonest with yourself so in the future, your motivation won't be killed by disappointment.
 
Create the big plan – Remove unnecessary expenses (which we will detail afterward), set a strict spending budget or add additional income to meet your goals.
 
Implement the plan – Put your plan in action and maintain it strictly.
 
Monitoring all the steps – As time passes by, your plan will evolve, and your spending will also change. Scrutinize the budget, analyze it and adjust it, if needed.

This saving plan works for most purposes in life, whether it is to travel, to save for a new house, a new car or simply to just keep the money for the future. Setting priorities and following them with motivation and rules will help you achieve your goals much faster. Always remember why you are doing this. Set pictures on the wall of your destination and remind yourself about the reward you will get with the current effort.

Additionally, as mentioned before, some extra costs of your life might need to be removed. Assessing your expenditures is mandatory to understand what fits in your “wants” and in your “needs”. Slowly it would be best to eliminate the “wants” from the things you make it a routine to purchase.

Likewise, creating a bank account, or even just a piggy bank at home where you save your money towards your goal, is the thing to do. Set an amount you want to transfer daily, weekly or monthly and make it a habit.

Cutting back on fancy coffee drinks, having beers out or lunch/dinner at a restaurant will help you improve your budget. Pack your lunch, if you are able, find out all the supermarket promotions and keep yourself to the basics.

For example, if you can pay eight or fewer euros for lunch instead of 12, each day, by the end of the year you will have around 832€ plus. The same with the drinks you have out with your friends or the pack of tobacco you buy. With this strategy, it will be easier to make money than if you were betting on the Breeders Cup challenge race.

Having fun doesn’t need to be forbidden when cutting some expenses. However, you should rethink what you would be doing for fun. There are a lot of free programs some organizations promote, free events, free exhibitions. Pay attention to it and once you find out what your area offers to you, go for it.

Ask yourself if you can reduce your car usage. Bikes are cheaper, healthier and reduce environmental pollution as well. If distances are too long, do you have the chance to take public transports? Do it! You have friends going to work in the same region as you? Split the costs and alternate rides. And if you're in a place where you and can do more walking, it's even better. Totally free and great exercise!

Reducing your utility bills can, for real, make the difference by the end of the month. If you turn off the heater, when you can, and instead use a sweater to warm up it'll feel good when the gas or electricity bill reduces. Turn off the lights when you leave the rooms, shorten your showers and do less laundry by accumulating more clothes for one wash.

These might seem like uncomfortable and unnecessary behaviors, but no one said goals are always easy to achieve. Once again, think about your priorities and adopt a new lifestyle. Three months later, or maybe less, all will feel part of your routine.

Unforeseen expenses might be a little scary at the beginning of this all-new style. To contour it, always think about the options you have. Second-hand shops are a possibility, in case you need a new bed, mattress or some new clothes. Second-hand books, for your studies, are also possible to get, without forgetting libraries. Most of them allow you to rent books for free or for a yearly cheap fee.

Another option could be to pick up any extra work you can in your spare time to help grow your travel fund faster.

If you want to travel and wish it with all of your strength, only you can achieve it with hard work and a heart full of desires. No one can stop you, but you. So spread your wings and fly!

We hope you found this article focusing on realistic ways to save money for travel helpful in your endeavor. Leave a comment below if you have some tips of your own you think should be shared!

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
No matter how much you love traveling, there are sure to be a few things from back home that you miss. Will watching sports be one of them?

Anyone who enjoys some sporting action might worry about not being able to see any when they travel. Yet, there are some great ways of doing so wherever you head to.

Here are some great ways to enjoy sports as you travel


Watch the Most Popular Local Sport
As you go around the globe, you will see that the favorite sports change in every place. Soccer is the most popular in many countries. However, you will also find the likes of horse racing, skiing, table tennis, and cricket taking the number one spot in some countries.

Going to see the nation’s favorite sport can be an unforgettable experience, especially if it is a huge event with lots of spectators. You will get to see how the locals react to the drama of the sport, and you might also learn to love a new type of game at the same time.

It makes sense to learn some of the basic rules and a little about some of the star players before you head to the event. Some sports can appear completely baffling if you watch them without really knowing what is going on.

Look for Wacky Events
There are lots of wacky sporting events that take place every year around the world. They can be great fun to watch. In fact, you can probably split them into two categories. The first are those that the competitors know are weird and just for fun. The others are sports that are taken very seriously but can appear ridiculous to you. Either way, it's bound to be an entertaining outing!

The UK is a great place for weird sports. From cheese rolling to bed racing and from bog snorkeling to tin bath racing, there are plenty of strange competitions all around the country. People know how silly these games are, and they just exist to give everyone a bit of harmless fun.

As for some other sports, you should be careful not to be disrespectful when watching things that appear unusual to you. In Asia, you will discover fascinating games such as Sepak Takraw and Kabbadi. Also, the World Nomad Games, which covers disciplines like goat-carcass polo and horseback wrestling.

Meanwhile, Italy has the rugged Calcio Fiorentino: basically, soccer with no rules.

In England there is the Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling Run, where you are running after a cheeseball in the slope of a mountain: careful, it is more dangerous than it seems.

Join Others to Watch Your Favorite Sport
If you follow a widely popular sport like football, basketball, or soccer you can probably watch it wherever you go. One option is to look for a sports bar showing international games. In this way, you could watch the Super Bowl in Africa, follow the MLB World Series records in Australia, or cheer on your favorite football team in Asia.

Another possibility is that you go to watch local teams playing a sport that you enjoy. This is a fine way of seeing the game in a different light. Will you see some upcoming stars that take your breath away or will you think that the standard of play is lower here than at home?

You might even find that this is a fine way to strike up conversations with other fans. A shared love of sports can bring together people from different cultures more easily than most other things could do.

By adding some sports to your traveling, you can turn any trip into more of an adventure. The first step is to take a look and see what your options are. Since sports are hugely popular all over the world, you shouldn’t find it too difficult to discover something that interests you.

Thanks for reading our article on some great ways to enjoy sports as you travel. Let us know in the comments if you have any tips you don't think we covered here.

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
Riyadh is the largest city in Saudi Arabia and is always bustling with activity. The city has great importance as being the political, financial, and administrative center of Saudi Arabia. It is also one of the fast-developing nations where people from diverse ethnic cultures live and immigrate. As it is one of the wealthiest cities in the world, it can be intimidating to plan a trip to Riyadh. In this post, we will offer some great tips for planning a trip to Riyadh!

Egypt Air or Air Egypt Airline, owned by the Government of Egypt, has regular flights to Riyadh which can be booked using Cleartrip travel website to avail discounts and special deals on ticket prices. Now that we know, which airlines to opt let us see what Riyadh has to offer to the travelers.

Here are our great tips for planning a trip to Riyadh


Start With Planning for the Trip
Unplanned trips are no doubt exciting. But, having a basic plan for your tip or even a detailed one about when to visit and where to stay would save you a lot of tension and trouble. Riyadh is prone to extreme climatic conditions and the city is dry throughout the year. The wind blows through the city bringing along a haze of sand. So, get an idea of the climate and weather conditions before starting your journey.

Especially in a city like Riyadh, booking a hotel room in advance sounds like a great option. In fact, it is advisable to do so as most of the midrange hotels get booked in full during the week by business travelers. Booking in advance can also help you save money by avoiding last-minute prices.

The city has a wide range of hotels to choose from depending on your budget. Olaya and Sulaimaniyah are in the heart of the city and offer numerous options to stay.

Getting around the city
Riyadh is a car-friendly city. You will find the roads filled with cars zooming one way and another throughout the day. It is preferable to rely on the white taxis, which are officially recognized. Ideally, negotiate a price for the trip in advance as the locals do. Meter rate may prove to be costly compared to fixed prices.

Be prepared in advance by finding out the name of your destination in Arabic. Carry a map or use the GPS on your phone. If you are in an adventurous mood and are a capable driver, rent a car and drive around the city yourself. Try not to plan long walks in the city. The conditions are not favorable for pedestrians due to the sporadic weather and traffic.

Get a Taste of Some Great Food
Riyadh has a lot to offer for food lovers. International, Middle Eastern, Indian, Armenian, and Turkish are some of the many varieties you can try. An upscale restaurant by Vineet Bhatia (yes, the famous 3-starred Michelin Star Chef) called Maharaja East is a treat for Indian food lovers. And, guess what? You might even get a chance to meet him.

Lusin Restaurant, a small chain Armenian restaurant, offers the delicacies of traditional Armenian cuisine. And Global Lounge, Mom’s Flavor, Spazio 77, Bristo by Tao are some of the most popular food places with international cuisine.

Go to Mama Noura, Zaatar W Zeit, if you want to experience the authentic Middle Eastern dishes. And if you want a touch of Rome, try Eataly for mouthwatering Italian food.

What can you try in Riyadh?
The city has restrictions on quite a few forms of entertainment not only due to its harsh climatic conditions but also due to the dress code with thaw for men and abaya for women. Does that mean you cannot try fun activities? Of course not! Madain Saleh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with numerous tombs with intricate carvings. Plan a multi-day tour to this ancient structure and experience the rich desert along with a tour of the most fascinating interiors.

Get authentic Bedouin experience by taking camel rides in the sparkling red sand and spending a night in the luxurious camp with the mystic Arabian atmosphere. Go up in a balloon or take helicopter tours to experience the most amazing view of the place.

King Abdulaziz Racetrack is a popular weekend destination for horse racing enthusiasts. Remember to carry your ID with you, though.

Al Masaa Café is a café with a view of the Kingdom Towers. If you are looking to experience some nightlife in Riyadh, this is the best place to visit. The café serves food along with coffee and delicate cheesecakes. Reach before sunset to soak in the beauty of the city at dusk.

Shopping Destinations in Riyadh
The city has numerous shopping malls and marketplaces for travelers to shop to their heart’s content. Sky Shopping Mall, Kingdom Towers (with an entire 2nd floor exclusively for women), and Al Nakheel Mall are some places you might want to visit.

A largest second-hand market, Princess Souq has some wonderful stuff to offer if you are good at bargaining. Gold Souq along with Uwais Souq are places for jewelry lovers where you can get some exquisite pieces for lesser prices. Again, sharpen your bargaining skills in advance.

Go to Jarir Bookstore if you are a book lover. Or, walk over to Souq Al Thumairi if you are an art and craft enthusiast.

More Places You Should Visit in Riyadh
If you are a football lover, you would be bubbling with excitement already. Being a favorite sport in Saudi Arabia, the city has four major football clubs. The King Fahd International Stadium with a seating capacity of 70,000 has hosted the FIFA Confederations Cup three times.

Visit the King Abdul Aziz Historical Centre, National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Royal Saudi Air Force Museum, or Saqr Al-Jazira to learn more about the city and its heritage.

Do bookings in advance for easy travel!
Air Egypt operates flights to over 70 destinations around the world. The airline is one of the pioneer air carriers in the world. And is one of the better airlines for flying into Riyadh. You can check-in at the airport via mobile phone or use web check-in. They also have special services for those traveling with pets, baby care, expectant mothers, young travelers, and travelers with special needs.

Traveling to Riyadh may seem a little intimidating to someone who hasn't been to the middle east before, but Riyadh is a prime example of what the middle east has to offer for travelers. Consider this post when planning your next trip!

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
Tampa may not have the same tourist fame as other cities in Florida such as Miami or Orlando, but it still has much to offer as any big city does. In this article, we’re going to go over the 5 best things to do in Tampa during a layover.

Before we get started, let’s talk about why taking a long layover can be beneficial. We all know long travel days can be rough especially when traveling with the whole family. We have found that it’s extremely helpful to break up the long days and give yourself a day or two in between flights.

For the purpose of this article, we’re using Tampa, Florida as an example, but this same strategy could be used for any layover you may have around the world. It’s a wonderful way for everyone to catch up on some sleep and stretch their legs while exploring a new city. It may require a little more searching when buying flights and you may not have enough time to see everything, but it can still be a worth to see more than just another airport.

Here is our list of 5 Things to do With Kids in Tampa During a Layover

1. Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6 mile-long trail which runs along the Hillsborough River. Visitors can walk, bike, enjoy public art and access any number of restaurants, stores, parks and playgrounds, bike rental shops and attractions, such as the Florida Aquarium and the Glazer Children's Museum, along the route.

Walking along the river is a great way to stretch your legs and let the kids run wild at one of the many well taken care of parks along the walk. And the best part is that it is completely free aside from any restaurant or shopping stops.

2. Busch Gardens
Spanning 297 acres and boasting more than 12,000 animals, restaurants, live shows, roller coasters, shops and games, Busch Gardens has been a popular theme park since the 1950s. It may not be as well known, but believe it or not, Busch gardens is actually older than Disney World and includes themed lands, such as the Edge of Africa and animal exhibits based on the Serengeti Plain and the Myombe Reserve. If you're looking for a theme park/zoo experience in Tampa, this is the place to start.

Tickets start at $84.99 if bought online three days in advance. Tickets bought on-site cost $94.99. And prepare to fork over some more cash for parking as well, which costs $25 per car.

You'll find Busch Gardens about 10 miles northeast of downtown Tampa. You may want to look into picking up a car rental in Tampa for activities like this that are a little out of the way. Having your own car also makes exploring the rest of the city a whole lot easier.

3. Florida Aquarium, Tampa
Aquariums have been a source of wonder and amazement that all ages have enjoyed for generations. The Florida Aquarium in Tampa is no different. The Aquarium houses a massive collection of marine life (over 14,000 animals)! Visitors can spend hours on end making their way through the maze of different habitats and the animals who reside within. Spending time at the aquarium is certainly a great way to keep everyone entertained during a long layover.

The aquarium is open every day from 9:30 am to 5 pm and tickets vary in price depending on a number of factors, such as day of the week, weather and holidays. For the most part, you can expect to pay around $27 to $32 for adults.

4. Glazer Children's Museum
If you’re traveling with younger kids you may want to stop by the Glazer Children’s Museum. The 53,000 square-foot space is filled with interactive exhibits that aim to teach kids about the human body, math, science, and art. It also makes for a good indoor activity to have in mind if the weather turns on you.

The museum is located near The Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa and is open every day of the week. Tickets range from $15 for adults and $10 for those 12 and under.

5. Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center
Tampa is a great place for animal lovers willing to pay for the experience. However, finding science centers, zoos and aquariums that don't charge at least a little something for you to enter can be a challenge. Which is why Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center is so special. At no cost at all, visitors can stop by and see Manatees swimming through the Tampa Electric water plant.

At the Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach, manatees seek refuge in the power station's discharge panel, where clean, warm Tampa Bay saltwater flows. When the bay gets too cold for the manatees, they retreat to this space for warmth.

Aside from being able to see these unique animals the Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center also offers other attractions including a mangrove exhibit, butterfly garden, and a gift shop. It’s a bit of a drive at about 25 miles from downtown, but the Manatee Viewing Center is a wonderful experience to have during your layover in Tampa.

Before we wrap it up, here are a few tips for those passing through Tampa

Look into a city pass
If you're trying to get the best out of your time in Tampa, consider buying the CityPASS. The $109 ($99 for kids) pass gives you access to Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa all in one. It's a much more affordable way to see some of the awesome parks Tampa has to offer.

Pick up a car rental
Renting a car in Tampa may also be a good idea if you plan on visiting a lot of places in a short amount of time. It's also more comfortable for the whole family.

Prepare for the heat!
For those who may not know, Florida gets hot! It's good to be prepared for this. Make sure you have lots of water and sunscreen for outdoor activities. And plan on a beach trip to cool off if you have the time.

Layovers don't have to be a dreaded thing. If you give yourself a little extra time in between stops you can catch up on sleep and have some time to check out a new place. Next time you are looking for flights, consider giving yourself a little extra time for your layover.

We hope you enjoyed our article on things to in Tampa during a layover and why taking a long layover can actually be better. Let us know how you spend your layovers in the comments!

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!


When it comes to things to do in Orlando, it’s no surprise that the city’s famed line-up of theme parks takes up most, if not all of the action. Both Disney and Universal dominate the tourist market here, with 9 different parks between them, not to mention all the branded shopping, dining and nightlife experiences that don’t require an expensive day-pass.

It’s easy to forget that there are so many more things to do in Orlando with kids than just theme parks. Today we’re going to talk about some of the lesser-known attractions Orlando has to offer.

Here is our list of the best alternative things to do in Orlando with kids



Kennedy Space center
Thanks to Orlando’s tourism boom, the Kennedy Space Center has become so much more than just NASA’s rocket launch headquarters. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex features educational and engaging “Mission Zones” where attractions and tours are organized by chronological era–from the beginning of space exploration to current and ongoing projects in space. The visitor Complex houses some of the most famous rockets and shuttles including the colossal Saturn V Rocket that took us to the moon and the newer Atlantis space shuttle. As well as many other pieces of equipment used for space flight.

Just a 45-minute drive from the center of Orlando you can meet real astronauts, see rockets, experience flight simulations, and even see a real launch if you plan your trip at the right time. Check the Kennedy Space Center schedule of events and see if you can plan your visit around any of the upcoming launches. Launch viewing is included with all general admission tickets to the Kennedy Space Center which are about $50.

The Beach
Okay so the beach may not exactly be in Orlando, but if you have an extra day to fill and you don’t have other plans to visit the beach while in Florida it can be a great addition to your trip. You can easily pick up a car rental in Orlando and make a day out of it. The coast is about an hour from the city and lined with public beaches that are well worth the drive.

Gatorland: The Alligator Capital of The World
Anyone who knows anything about Florida knows that alligators are pretty much everywhere. Although it’s unlikely to see wild alligators in the city (thank god!), but there is a place you can go to get a full Florida gator experience.

Gatorland is a 110-acre “theme park” and wildlife preserve is filled with engaging exhibits, exciting rides, and thrilling gator-themed entertainment. There are multiple gator feeding shows happening every day as well as up-close experiences with some of the parks less dangerous animals. Entrance is very reasonable, too, with this being one of the cheapest of Orlando’s many tourist attractions. You do pay a little extra for things like the zipline and gator training sessions, though.

Dinner and a Show?
Orlando is home to many wonderful dinner theaters. For those who don’t know, a dinner theater is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. You can pick from a plethora of themed restaurants and enjoy your meal while watching a live interactive show. Outta Control Dinner Show is an improv comedy/magic show that is appropriate for all ages. And the Pirate dinner adventure is a stunning pirate-themed, acrobatic show the whole family will love.

Wonderworks
Wonderworks is a unique science museum. You’ll know when you’ve arrived when you see the huge building turned upside down by a terrifying tornado. Children are immediately pulled in by the wacky design and even more so by the 100+ hands-on exhibits. Visiting Wonderworks is the perfect way to combine your fun with educational elements on your family trip to Orlando. And a more affordable one. Entrances fees range from $25 for kids to $33 for adults.

SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando
The SEA LIFE aquarium does a great job providing visitors, and especially young visitors, with experiences that are up close and personal. You get to view the underwater world through plexiglass windows and tunnels. As well as the hands-on touch pool experience. This is a visually stunning experience for adults and an educational one for children.

There are far too many attractions in Orlando to include all of them in this article, but we tried to cover some of the best alternative things to do in Orlando with kids. Any of these activities are bound to add loads of excitement to your trip. Getting from place to place with the whole family can be a bit tough if you don’t have a car with you so be sure to book a car rental in Orlando so you don’t have to worry about it.

I hope you found something new and exciting to experience on your trip to Orlando in this article. Do you have a favorite attraction in Orlando aside from the big theme parks? Let us know in the comments!

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
While anyone interested in travel blogging has the dream of becoming a digital nomad, which is someone who works remotely and uses travel as a way to make a living, it is not as easy as it sounds. First, you need to have the avenue to make money, and then many of the destinations people want to see are not the best places for living and working. Most people want to sit on the beach while making money, but you usually need an environment that is conducive to being on the computer.

The Most Popular Destinations For Digital Nomads

The most popular continent for digital nomads is Europe, but it has both pros and cons for the lifestyle. While it is full of cafes that have Wi-Fi, great internet connection at hotels, and countless destinations to see, it is not the cheapest place to work and travel. In fact, it boasts some of the most expensive cities to visit. The ability to get the work done is quite possibly the most important aspect of the lifestyle, but affording where you are staying is another pivotal component. 

On the other hand, parts of Asia are much cheaper places to stay, but the internet connection and access to Wi-Fi can be spotty. The continent boasts beautiful landscapes, unspoiled culture, and many opportunities for great experiences, but it isn’t the best place to get stuff done.

Still, the most popular destination for people living the digital nomad lifestyle is Bali. Not only is Indonesia, and Bali in particular, beautiful, it is also a cheap place to live. According to the site MoneyPug, which is used to compare holidays, the same goes for Chiang Mai and Bangkok in Thailand. Though Bali and Thailand—in addition to Budapest, Berlin, and Seoul—make up some of the most populations, how do they stack up when you really analyze the pros and cons of living a digital lifestyle?

The Most Feasible Destinations For Digital Nomads

There appear to be large differences in the destinations that are popular and those that are conducive to the digital nomad lifestyle. Though much of Europe is expensive, many of their countries make it into the best destinations for digital nomads.

For example, according to a recent study of the most livable destinations for digital nomads, the best country is Estonia. Followed by Finland, Norway, and Denmark, it is clear that Northern Europe has an advantage as far as the balance between price and accessibility goes. After these destinations, New Zealand, Israel, Canada, Singapore, the Netherlands, and the United States all make the top ten. Notice that Indonesia, Thailand, Hungary, Germany, and South Korea don’t make this top ten list.

South Korea is the top out of these countries, falling all the way to 27th on the list of 68 countries. This is followed by Hungary at number 36, Thailand at number 47, Germany at 53, and Indonesia at number 62. Needless to say, there is a disparity between where digital nomads want to go and where they should go.

Security vs. Experiences


This is not surprising, the top ten countries, except for maybe Israel and the United States, are extremely safe and prosperous. It goes without saying that security is a great component of a place to make your home for a while, but it doesn’t always lead to unforgettable experiences.

They all boast great spots to post on Instagram, but none provide that risky, exciting vibe that people look for when they travel abroad. The only Asian country that made it onto the list was Singapore, which is known both for its security, its no-nonsense government, its food, and its mix of cultures. Singapore is a destination people want to travel to, but it also misses the gritty aspect of travel so many people crave.

If you are looking to become a digital nomad, working remotely while traveling the world, it may be beneficial to sacrifice where you want to go and replace it with where you should go. But that doesn’t satisfy a lot of people, so many digital nomads get into for the thrill of the lifestyle. With thousands of people making this lifestyle work, it will be curious to see if more people will gravitate towards better opportunities or the most exotic destinations.

This post is just a mear glimpse into the world of balancing between the most popular destinations for digital nomads and some that may be more practical. There is much to consider when traveling as a digital nomad, but most of all you have to determine what works best for your situation.

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
Although at first glance New York might seem like a destination for adults. However, a family with children would be extremely happy to visit this "pearl" of the United States.

Each restaurant provides adequate menus for the little guests, the city has large green spaces at every corner: large parks (the most important example is certainly Central Park), or small gardens, always strictly equipped with slides, swings, and games for children to enjoy. In this article, we will briefly guide you through your NYC trip and provide some of the best sightseeing options for the whole family.

Here is our little guide to New York City for Families:


Getting to New York
Getting the largest expense (flights to NYC) can hurt, but I find it best to get it done as soon as you have your travel plans. That helps save money as well, and getting the bulk price out of the way can help ease your mind for the rest of your trip.

Depending on where you're coming from, you should have no problem finding the best deals on some of the many online offers to fly and travel to New York on various price comparators. You'll easily be able to compare the cheaper options to the more luxurious ones if that is what you're looking for.

Where to sleep in New York City
Staying in Midtown New York City is something special. The Empire State Building-Times Square area is one of the best to have everything within reach: leaving the hotel and finding yourself totally immersed in the atmosphere of the city is something unforgettable. You can also easily return to the hotel in the middle of the day if you want to let the children rest without making too many trips. Really the only downside to staying in Midtown is the cost.

If you have a more limited budget, you can find economic family apartments that allow you to save as much as possible during your stay in the Big Apple. You can also do things like preparing meals for the day so you don't have to eat out the whole time.

Eating in New York
Considering how large NYC is, you won't ever have a hard time finding all kinds of food throughout the city. You will have no problem fulfilling even the pickiest of eaters. However, when in New York there are some foods you absolutely have to try!

Pizza
The origins of pizza are traced back to Naples, Italy, but the distinctly American version we know and love was born in New York City in the late 1800s when Neapolitan immigrants adapted their family recipes. No trip to NYC is complete without trying the famous New York-style pizza you can find everywhere.

Bagels
Another story of immigration. The bagel was introduced and became popular worldwide when Jewish immigrants brought the tradition with them from Europe. Now you can find bagels in supermarkets everywhere, but many restaurants in NYC have their own unique spins on this delicious treat!

Cheesecake
Cheesecake has also existed for centuries, but New York City's signature take came into being after cream cheese was invented in the nearby town of Chester, New York, in 1872. Since then, NY has been known for its version an already mouthwatering dessert.

Remember that in the big city, it may be necessary to book the restaurant ahead of time otherwise, the wait could be extreme.

How to move around New York City
Similar to most big cities around the world, taxis are never in short supply in NYC. If you're trying to get from one place to another as easily as possible then hopping in a cab might be the way to go. It's good to remember that traffic can be atrocious as well. So, you may want to give yourself more time if you decide to take a taxi.

Renting a car in New York City is also a good way to get around during your trip. If you're comfortable driving in a foreign place, it can help save a lot of money over having to pay for a taxi each you go out. It also gives your family a lot more freedom not only for getting around, but you can also take more with you on days of exploring.

Buses and subways are another good and very cheap alternative to get around the city if you're not interested in driving. The subway, however, maybe the only way to avoid the traffic you would find above ground. Both the bus system and the subways are mapped very well and are a breeze to use.

Places to see and things to do in New York City

American Museum of Natural History
One of the best family-friendly attractions is certainly The American Museum of Natural History. There is no lack of mythical and historical exhibits. Not to mention dinosaurs like the T-REX! This museum has enough wonders to explore for hours on end so be sure to give yourself a good amount of time for your visit. Depending on how fast you are walking through, the recommended time is about 4 hours to see a much as possible. Admission cost is in the form of a $23 donation for adults and $13 for kids. Inside there are water dispensers so you can save a little money by having your own water bottle with you.

Be careful, your kids will never want to leave!

Central Park
Central Park is a classic must-see in New York. Some activities you can do there include Ice skating (in the winter), taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park, and many other activities and events that come and go at different times of the year. Central Park is the perfect place to enjoy a little nature while in the big city and for the kids to burn off some energy running around or playing on one of the many playgrounds.

You'll find another famous place in the park as well. The Central Park Zoo is one of the smaller zoos in NYC but could make for a fun addition to your time exploring Central Park. Tickets range from $20 for adults and $15 for children.

If you decide to skip the zoo, you may still be greeted by some of the park's wildlife. Such as squirrels, ducks, geese, and if you've got a good eye you may be able to spot some turtles in the ponds around the park.

You could easily spend half a day or more in the park if you have the time.

Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a symbol of the city and one of the most visited and appreciated skyscrapers. You can climb up to the 86th floor or up to the 102nd floor, with price scales that grow as you go higher. It may be a little costly, but the view from above is phenomenal! The line to get to the observation deck can be fairly long most days. Make sure you have some tools to keep everyone entertained during the long wait!

Broadway
We simply cannot forget to mention Broadway: the beating heart of the city and Mecca of theatre worldwide. Here the most famous names of today's and yesterday's cinema perform in musicals, comedies, and dramas with high-budget productions full of special effects and huge sets. In all this, the famous Disney musicals stand out: "Mary Poppins" and the "Lion King”. I can't promise a budget-friendly trip to a Broadway show, but if you're willing to spend a little extra money it can be an amazing time for the whole family.

Experience a Scavenger Hunt in New York City
One of the best ways to tour the Big Apple is through a fun and exciting New York City scavenger hunt. There’s no better way to explore Lower Manhattan, Wall Street, and The Rockefeller Center than through an adventurous scavenger hunt! It’s a terrific bonding activity the family will surely enjoy.

Companies that organize scavenger hunts have lots of creative ideas and additional games that will make each hunt more customized to your preference.

Rockefeller Center and Lego Shop
Every adult visiting New York cannot fail to see the spectacular Rockefeller Center with its famous ice skating rink that appears in every movie. If your trip happens to be planned during the holiday season you have all the more reason to visit Rockefeller Center. You'll be able to ice skate under the stunning Christmas tree that gets lit up every year.

Even during other times of the year, Rockefeller Center is a sight to behold. Then there's the LEGO shop. Where the bricks are assembled in the reproduction of the same Rockefeller Center as well as many other imaginative creations that decorate the two floors of the store. The presence of the LEGO store in this context also ensures the satisfaction of young tourists along with that of their parents no matter what time of year you're visiting!

Statue of Liberty
No list of things to do in New York City for families would be complete without mentioning the Statue of Liberty. The national monument is not only one of the most popular site in NYC but in all of the United States.

Taking the ferry out to Liberty Island is a wonderful activity in itself. You get to see the city from a new perspective as you cruise across the Hudson River and the kids will love the boat ride. Once on the island, it's impossible not to be impressed by the grandness of the statue. Most of the packages you can purchase include a trip to the historic Ellis Island as well. The ferry package costs $25 per adult and $16 for children. With more in-depth tours of the statue costing the same.

Last-Minute Tips
For the main museums-buildings or in any case for all the very touristy attractions within the city, it is advisable to arrive as early as possible to avoid the long lines.

You can also choose to do the NY PASS which helps you save money if you plan to visit as many places as possible.

Remember to consider picking up a car rental in New York City as well. It can really help you get around to some of the farther out locations you may want to visit. Navigating the city can be a little tricky, but if you are a confident driver it's totally worth it.

As with any trip, it is better not to keep the time too tight, especially with children following. New York City is a wonderful place to explore and you'll need some time to see everything your heart desires.

I hope you enjoyed our little guide to New York City for families. Leave a comment with your favorite place or activity in NYC!

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter!
Sometimes, we all just need to get away, whether from work, home, or just in general. It’s not always about fancy hotels, exquisite places to eat or expensive things to buy, it can be all about family time without interruptions. One way I enjoy getting away with the family is to go camping. It doesn’t sound like it would be that fantastic, but once you get out there in the open, away from technology, you may feel so much better like I always do.

Here is our list of the Top 5 Best National Parks for Camping in the United States:

Yosemite National Park-California
I’m sure this is a name that you are familiar with, whether you’ve read about it or heard about it on television. This park has been protected since 1864 and is best known for its beautiful waterfalls. In this 1,200 square mile park, you can enjoy meadows, sequoias, the wilderness areas, and deep valleys. If you are up to a challenge you can even hike up the cables of Half Dome for a one of a kind view like my son just did last week.


Camping is extremely popular in this park. There are three areas that offer camping with multiple different campgrounds in each area. These all have their own opening and closing date as well as what is allowed in the park and what isn’t in terms of travel and sleep. Most campgrounds allow RV’s, so if that’s how you’re traveling, you’ll be in luck.

The Adirondack Park-New York
I’ve personally been here and let me tell you something-it’s absolutely beautiful. In fact I spent a lot of time here growing up and after all my travel it remains one of my very favorite places on Earth! It’s one of the largest national parks in the United States. It’s bigger than the Everglades, Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone National parks combined. It has an area of 6 million acres and half of it has been constitutionally protected by the forest preserve to remain forever wild.


Inside of this massive area, you’ll find an enormous variety of campgrounds for your family to enjoy. These include RV parks, tents, and others. Since this is such a large area with tons of mountains, steep cliffs, lakes, and valleys.

Glacier Bay National Park-Alaska
I’d love to go camping or at least travel to Alaska someday. This park features deep glacial fjords and high peaks, making it one of the most amazing places to view the scenery. Glacier Bay is a significant marine and terrestrial wilderness sanctuary, making the experience that much more amazing. It is also one of the largest protected Biosphere Reserves in the world.


If you decide that Glacier Bay may be the right spot for you, there are only a few campgrounds to choose from. Barlett Cove is one of their most popular walk-in campgrounds. If you go here, you’ll get a permit and bear-resistant food containers. You must also attend a 30-minute orientation so that you’re fully prepared for camping there and what their rules and regulations are.

Acadia National Park-Maine
Want to go camping in the winter? No problem! Acadia National Park features campgrounds that are open all year round with certain restrictions. This is one heck of an adventure if you plan to do it in the winter. In order to get to some of these campgrounds, such as the Blackwoods Campground, you have to hike there because the road is closed off to automobiles. Sites are also limited during this time of year (December-March). You’ll also only get water from a hand pump and you’ll get a portable toilet.


If you plan to camp during prime time, it’s suggested that you make a reservation at a lot of these campgrounds because of how popular the area is. Surrounding the area, you’ll find stunning lighthouses, beautiful nature, wildlife creatures, and great seafood.

Hot Springs National Park-Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park is also known as “The American Spa”. This park surrounds the north end of Hot Springs, Arkansas. In this area you’ll find thermal water. You can take a traditional bath at the Buckstaff Bathhouse or you can have a wonderful spa experience at the Quapaw Baths and Spa. You can also visit the hot springs where you can taste and feel the water.


Throughout the park, you’ll find geothermal areas. These areas are hot springs that you can enjoy. They can be found along the western side of Hot Springs Mountain in the downtown area of the city. There are also multiple campgrounds that you can enjoy if you’re passing through or plan a vacation there.

And there you have it!  The top 5 best national parks for camping in the United States to take your family to on your next road trip. These parks are scattered all around the United States and there are even more than what is on this list. Camping is such a fun family experience and it gives you plenty of time to bond with each other while fishing, hiking, or just enjoying a nice walk. And don't forget to bring a saw with you for gathering and cutting firewood for that perfect campfire experience your family will never forget.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram!
Newer Posts Older Posts Home
  • Home
2011-2020 Family Travel Blog. All rights reserved.
2020