It’s fair to say that 2020 has been a trying year for families. The COVID-19 lockdown has seen families being forced to spend more time together than ever before.
That being said, with the perils of homeschooling, parents trying to cram in work, and children losing the structure and routine their school provides - it’s difficult to call this quality time. It’s safe to say, families are in need of a summer vacation.
But how can your family plan a summer vacation in ‘the new normal’? These outside-of-the-box ideas will help you when being creative when planning your family summer vacation during COVID.
Instead of overseas travel, think domestic or even local
Although it may be tempting to take advantage of the super-low price of international flights, is it really a risk you and your family want to take? And in many cases, is it even possible?A lot of international borders throughout the world are still closed for the foreseeable future. Moreover, a lot of countries are implementing mandatory quarantine periods for overseas visitors. Therefore, it could be a good idea to skip international travel this summer. Instead, this is the year to explore your own country or even your local area.
After all, there are probably many great places close to your front doorstep that you’ve always wanted to visit but never took the time. This summer, why not incorporate some local gems into your summer vacation plans?
Get out into nature and go camping
If you’re looking to adhere to social distancing while also disconnecting yourself from the pitfalls of 2020, why not take a family camping trip?
There’s a high chance that in a normal year your child would now be planning what to take to scout camp or summer camp. However, a lot of these trips have been postponed or canceled. Although they won’t get their camping badge this year, planning a family camping trip is a great way to make sure your kids still get a taste of the great outdoors.
How about renting a camper?
You and your family can make the journey itself the vacation. A camper allows the whole family to experience the open road while being in the safety and hygiene of your own space.
This is perfect if you want to visit multiple locations on your summer vacation but are trying to avoid domestic flights for safety concerns. Similar to your camping trip, sit down with your family - and a map - and plan your route together. Try to incorporate one attraction, town, or activity per person. That way your trip will have a bit of something for everyone!
Visit attractions in the week, not the weekend
As attractions open up worldwide, families are going to be eager to visit them or, frankly, visit anywhere. As a result, large parks, attractions, or towns where you’d usually be able to social distance easily will be busier than usual. And, as I’m sure you know, trying to get young children to socially distance is difficult.There are a couple of ways around this:
Visit places that are off the beaten track - Instead of navigating towards the top 10 attractions on Trip Advisor, think about slightly quirkier destinations that will attract fewer families e.g. ranches, ghost towns, niche museums - whatever your family is into!
Visit attractions in the week - This is always an easy hack to avoid crowds. Avoid weekends or peak times at major attractions. Not only is this a good way to social distance but you will probably be able to save some money in doing so.
Get the help of a travel professional to plan your trip
There’s no doubt that you’re more than capable of planning a family summer vacation. However, in these uncharted times, it’s slightly more difficult to do so. Therefore, it may be worth bringing in a travel expert to help you plan your family vacation.They will be able to plan a detailed itinerary, help you save money before and during your trip, and also keep you safe from potential difficulties you might encounter traveling during a global pandemic.
2020 has been stressful enough. Why not take something off your plate and hire a travel professional?
And remember
2020 has been tough so far. Back at the start of the year, the idea of taking a family vacation seemed completely unattainable.However, with a few creative solutions and by taking a slightly different vacation than you may be used to, it’s still possible to have a great family summer vacation in 2020.
We hope this article helps you make the most of the summer during these trying times. If you have any wacky COVID vacation ideas, feel free to share them in the comments below!
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| Drone in action |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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!
Whether you’re planning a weekend vacation or a long-winded adventure there are always going to be those unavoidable hurdles. And while you can’t always prepare for everything, there are some things you can do to ensure you have the smoothest and most enjoyable trip possible.
In this article, we're going to talk about some of the most helpful tips for planning a trip. Including budgeting, finding the best flights, packing, ground transportation and more.
10 Helpful Tips for Planning a Trip the Whole Family will Love!
1. Establish a budget
The first thing you'll want to do when planning a trip is to establish a budget, even before you know your destination, travel dates or itinerary. This can help avoid any disappointment that could come from forging a fabulous itinerary and then realizing that you won't be able to afford everything you planned.
Once you know what you have to work with, you'll be able to plan your trip around that. There are many factors to think about when you're trying to stick to a predetermined budget and we will cover them the best we can in the following steps.
Before we move on, here are a few tips to help give you a little extra cash to work with:
- Travel in the offseason.
- Pick budget accommodations.
- Plan a shorter trip (if necessary).
- Keep an open mind about accommodations.
- Start saving money wherever you can leading up to your trip.
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, then somewhere in South East Asia or South America will get you a lot more bang for your buck. If you have more to work with then it might be the best time to take that tour around Europe we’re all dreaming of.
3. Get your documents in order
Once you have a destination picked, you’ll want to be sure that you have all the documents you need. If you’re heading out of the country, then you must have a valid passport at least six months from expiration. But depending on the country you plan to visit, you may need to apply for a tourist Visa ahead of time. Make sure you look into that before booking any flights. All it takes is a quick google search to know whether you need any extra paperwork or not.
4. Pre-plan your itinerary
Planning a full-on itinerary is not always necessary. Especially if you prefer to just show up and play it by ear, but it's understandable that some people would like to have a better idea of what their trip is going to look like. And even for those that don't, having at least somewhat of an itinerary can go a long way to help with the rest of your planning process. Plus it can be a great way to get the whole family excited about the trip.
A good way to start is by researching sites and cities you really want to explore, and then figure out which ones you have the time and budget to get to. You can go as far as you want with that. From having every day filled with activities to winging it day by day. However, if you want to be able to book your accommodations and ground transport ahead of time then you'll need to write up at least a basic itinerary.
5. Book your flights
There are a few good tricks to make sure you get the best deal possible. We all know that booking sites like Kayak, CheapOair and Priceline offer some of the best prices, but what some don’t know is that even when using a flight searching site there are a few ways to save even more:
- Selecting alternate dates.
- Switching to incognito mode on your browser.
- Using a VPN (virtual private network) hide your IP address.
- Be flexible with the time of day, layovers and baggage allowance.
Travel insurance is one of those things that is highly debated amongst the travel community. Some feel that it isn’t necessary, especially when you’re in a country with affordable health care. And some feel that you should always have it when traveling because you never know what could happen. If you prefer to remain on the safe side or you’re planning a more intense adventure, you should do some research to find out what works best for your situation.
There are several kinds of travel insurance: trip cancellation insurance, flight cancellation insurance, medical insurance, etc. It’s up to you to decide what level of coverage you feel most comfortable with.
7. Get crafty with accommodation
Sure, you can book a room in the local Hilton and be good to go. But you'll find with a little research, that there are tons of funky places to stay around the world. Airbnb is a great way to find these unique and affordable accommodations no matter where you’re going. But don’t forget to look out for some local gems along the way as well.
8. Find the best ground transportation
Finding safe and affordable ground transportation when you’re just arriving in a new place can be difficult. It's especially annoying trying to figure it all out after a long and tiring travel day. And in most airports, you walk out and get hounded immediately by people trying to scam you into an overpriced ride. It never feels good getting sucked into that because you think you have no choice. RideGuru, a fair comparison calculator is a great tool for finding the best price as well as allowing you to customize your search to ensure you get the best ride for you and your family.
Taking a train or bus is also a good and affordable mode of ground transportation for traveling longer distances and getting a more local experience during your trip.
9. Pack smart
Now it’s time to pack! But be careful not to overpack. Overpacking is one of the most common mistakes of people new to travel. Instead of packing the day before your trip, start thinking about what you’ll need to bring at least a week before you leave. This way you’ll have the time to research the few key things to consider when packing: the type and length of your trip, your itinerary, the weather, the size of your luggage, and any weight limits imposed by your mode of transportation.
If you’re having trouble fitting everything in your limited space, lay everything out and rule out anything that you may not need. You can most likely make it without the few extra outfits you're trying to stuff in there. If you're still having trouble, here are a few other packing tips:
- Packing cubes help save space as well as organizing your smaller items.
- Roll your clothes instead of folding.
- If you’re packing shoes, fill them up!
- Don’t forget about that little zipper on most bags that gives you an extra couple inches.
If you consider these things while also staying as light as possible, you’ll be traveling like a pro in no time!
10. Have a great time!
The final step on our list is simply to enjoy your trip to the fullest. This is easier said than done of course. There are always unforeseen obstacles to get over when you're traveling in a foreign place, but that doesn't always have to be a bad thing. As long as you keep an open mind, you'll be able to get through any issues that may come up and continue having the best adventure possible! Keep an open mind and you’ll never be disappointed when plans change.
10. Have a great time!
The final step on our list is simply to enjoy your trip to the fullest. This is easier said than done of course. There are always unforeseen obstacles to get over when you're traveling in a foreign place, but that doesn't always have to be a bad thing. As long as you keep an open mind, you'll be able to get through any issues that may come up and continue having the best adventure possible! Keep an open mind and you’ll never be disappointed when plans change.
Before we get into some of our tips and what we learned during our stay let's talk about how it actually went and what we did on one of my favorite Canada holidays we've taken by far.
The fail, and Bow Lake
I guess we should have known what we were getting into given that they are a couple of the most famous lakes in the world. As it turns out, the lakes are so busy they close the parking lot and force you to pay for a shuttle up. It didn’t seem like a big deal until we discovered the hour-long wait for each lake!
Columbia Icefield, and Ice Explorer
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
Here are some of my tips that might help you out should you decide to make the trip:
Tip #1 Figuring out where to stay
During our research phase of the trip, we quickly discovered how high the prices were and how difficult it was to find a place in Banff so, we opted to stay at a much cheaper Airbnb in Canmore, just outside the park border. I would recommend looking there if prices seem intimidating. It’s about a half an hour extra to drive to the big sights from Canmore, but I think it was well worth the hassle.Tip #2 Wake up early for Lake Louise
Let’s just say this, I don’t like waking up early. But I would highly recommend getting up just before sunrise and make your way over to Lake Louise. For one, it is the only time you will be able to claim a spot in the parking lot. And there’s nothing quite like watching the sun crawl its way down the mountains and light up the lake.Tip #3 Keep an eye out for the wildlife
Tip #4 The best time for Moraine Lake
As we talked about before, the best time to visit Lake Louise is as early as possible in the morning. What I wanted to mention here was that I think the best time for Moraine Lake is actually the afternoon. The light shines perfectly on the water at that time and creates the stunning deep blue color we all want to see.Unfortunately, getting into Moraine is quite difficult in the evening because of how crowded it gets. You can take the free shuttle up for Moraine and you might have to wait up to an hour. Or you might be able to get lucky if you wait near the entrance for them to open it. To keep things moving, they open the gate every 20 minutes or so to let just a few cars in. So, you have to be fast but you just might be able to sneak in!
We had an amazing journey to Banff and all the stop along the way. I hope this article was enjoyable and helpful for anyone planning on making the trip themselves. There will be more posts coming soon about some of the other stops we made along our summer road trip!
Travel Safety Tips and Tricks when on the road with Your Dog
The majority of us treat our dogs as part of our family. Leaving them behind for a weekend break or vacation is quite heartbreaking. However, traveling with them is not as simple as it looks. Each year numerous dogs and other pets are either harmed or killed in vehicular accidents. Although some of these occurrences are out of our hands, there are some preventive measures you can take to ensure your beloved pet is safe and secure on your family road trip.
It is essential to plan, be flexible, and get organized if you want your journey with your pet to be successful. You'll need to consider everything, from your vehicle to stopovers. No matter how long or short your drive is keeping your furry friend comfortable and secure is necessary.
Why it’s Important to Properly Restrain your Dog when Traveling
Regardless of how much your pooch enjoy hanging his head on your car's window, here are the reasons why it's dangerous not to restrain him properly:
To ensure a smooth road trip with your pup, here are some tips and tricks you can follow:
Know the Rules of the Road
Make sure you are aware of the road rules and laws on every state with regards to traveling with pets. Every dog owner is responsible for their pets as per Rule 57 of the Highway Code. It also states that you should restrain your dog suitably in your vehicle to avoid driver distraction and injuring not just you but themselves in case of a car crash. Your precious pet can be thrown forward like a rag doll during an accident.
Securing your Dog in your Car
A lot of dog owners let their dogs sit on their laps or restrain them using a regular leash during travel. You're putting your pet in danger by doing these things. Moreover, this is also against the law. Depending on the size of your pet, you are required to use proper restraints such as a dog cage, pet carrier, seat belt harness, or a dog car seat.
Each pet is different, and some tend to be really anxious when they're away from their comfort zone. It's advisable to take your four-legged friend on short rides in your car using his restraint a few weeks before your road trip so that he'll get use it. You can also make his space in your vehicle as comfortable and familiar as possible by placing some of his favorite toys in there.
You can also ask your vet for anti-nausea drugs for your dog in case he gets car sick. If he's really nervous, you can let him sit in the car and not go anywhere. Praise him for being a well-behaved dog. Once he's already calm and relaxed, you can start taking little trips around the block.
Moreover, you also need to make the trip comfortable and safe for you and your family. Here are some things to pack for your dog to ensure your travel will run seamlessly:
It is essential to plan, be flexible, and get organized if you want your journey with your pet to be successful. You'll need to consider everything, from your vehicle to stopovers. No matter how long or short your drive is keeping your furry friend comfortable and secure is necessary.
Why it’s Important to Properly Restrain your Dog when Traveling
Regardless of how much your pooch enjoy hanging his head on your car's window, here are the reasons why it's dangerous not to restrain him properly:
- Your pet can distract your driving easily.
- Letting your puppy sit on your lap can move or block your vehicle's steering wheel, brake and gas pedals, and gear shift.
- An airbag can injure or kill your pet.
- His eyes, mouth, and nose can get injured by different road debris if his head is hanging out of your car's window.
- Your pet can become a fatal projectile during a crash or even on a sudden stop.
- Letting your dog loose during the ride can get in the way when emergency men are trying to get you out during a crash. He can also escape and get lost without anyone noticing.
To ensure a smooth road trip with your pup, here are some tips and tricks you can follow:
Know the Rules of the Road
Make sure you are aware of the road rules and laws on every state with regards to traveling with pets. Every dog owner is responsible for their pets as per Rule 57 of the Highway Code. It also states that you should restrain your dog suitably in your vehicle to avoid driver distraction and injuring not just you but themselves in case of a car crash. Your precious pet can be thrown forward like a rag doll during an accident.
Securing your Dog in your Car
A lot of dog owners let their dogs sit on their laps or restrain them using a regular leash during travel. You're putting your pet in danger by doing these things. Moreover, this is also against the law. Depending on the size of your pet, you are required to use proper restraints such as a dog cage, pet carrier, seat belt harness, or a dog car seat.
- Dog Harness. Dog harnesses are also known as seat belts. These are one of the safest ways to restrain your pet in your vehicle. They fit and work just like a regular harness but are specially designed to endure car crash impacts. Find the best one for your pet by comparing the top dog car harnesses you can find here.
- Dog car seats. Dog booster seats and car seats are similar to a harness but made specifically for smaller breeds of dogs. Your adorable pup is boosted up to a level where he can see the view while still being kept safe and secure.
- Kennel or crate. These are ideal if you have a large vehicle. Provided that you purchase a very sturdy one that you can safely secure in place, it's also one of the safest ways to travel with your canine buddy.
Prepare your Pet Emotionally, and Physically
One of the things you need to do is to make the whole trip as pleasant and comfortable as possible for your dog. The last thing you want is to see him getting sick and nauseous during the ride. Not all dogs have the right temper or are healthy enough to travel. Forcing them is not recommended.Each pet is different, and some tend to be really anxious when they're away from their comfort zone. It's advisable to take your four-legged friend on short rides in your car using his restraint a few weeks before your road trip so that he'll get use it. You can also make his space in your vehicle as comfortable and familiar as possible by placing some of his favorite toys in there.
You can also ask your vet for anti-nausea drugs for your dog in case he gets car sick. If he's really nervous, you can let him sit in the car and not go anywhere. Praise him for being a well-behaved dog. Once he's already calm and relaxed, you can start taking little trips around the block.
Moreover, you also need to make the trip comfortable and safe for you and your family. Here are some things to pack for your dog to ensure your travel will run seamlessly:
- Paper towels and plenty of dog poop bags.
- Cleaning materials such as odor and stain remover.
- Bowl, dog food, treats, and water.
- Seat cover to protect your vehicle from hair and all kind of stains.
Hopefully, this post didn't scare you away from the idea of taking your best friend on a road trip with you. Sure, there are a lot of things that can go wrong, but if you use some of these simple tips you'll find that traveling with your dog can be a wonderful and easy adventure!
Before I had kids I did a fair bit of skiing. I remember watching parents struggle to hold their kiddos up or to get a break of their own to enjoy actually skiing or boarding. I remember thinking simultaneously that I'd love to do that with mu kids one day and that I never wanted to take my own kids skiing because it looked wonderful and difficult all at the same time.
When my oldest was little I just went for it. I figured worst case scenario we all hate it and never do it again. Best case scenario we have a fun day and get some great pics. He was 3 and fortunately it was a great day. He was a natural and skied with ease. I decided to forgo the skis myself for the beginning then get him a lesson at which time I could ski a couple runs and then join him. That worked perfectly.
For the few winters we enjoyed this same ritual although over time it turned to snowboarding for him. I stick with skis after an intensely failed attempt at boarding as a 20 something in Vermont. But that is a whole other story. I had another baby and did the same thing with him until the time that we moved to the tropics and snow, cold, and skiing was swapped for sand, warmth, and surfing.
Another child was had and travel continued albeit around the equator for the most part so cold and snow just never was part of our year. The older two boys and I missed it but not so much that we'd forgo the beach life we'd come to love.
Last year my 9 year old, who had literally never even seen snow before, decided he was ready to try out skiing. We had recently moved to Washington state from Hawaii and since we have good friends that live up in a ski resort in Canada, a mere 5 hours away by car, we decided to make an almost whole family trip up to give it a go again. Hubby stayed home with the newest member of our family Koa, a golden retriever puppy.
Big White ski resort in Canada is in beautiful British Columbia. It's located about 40 minutes from the large city of Kelowna, making it a great location for a family ski vacation or even as a place to live for the season to really get into the ski lifestyle while also having good access to a large city with everything you could need in the way of shopping, theaters, experiences, etc. We spent about 5 days there skiing, sledding, taking lessons, and watching fireworks over New Years Eve.
As it had been a long time since we skied last the younger kids took lessons while my oldest and I hit the slopes. I would love to say it was a perfect few days on the slopes but it most definitely wasn't. My youngest has a harder time dealing with things than my older children and between the cold, sore feet, and the blustery days it was the challenge I had predicted way back before I had children. There was whining and crying and full on collapsing to the ground...the very cold snow covered ground. We survived though and even did it again the next day, which of course went more smoothly. It did teach us a few things though, as harder experiences usually do.
~~~For starters the more sets of hands you can bring the better especially if trying to ski with multiple first timers or children under 5. Anyone the kids will trust and can physically maneuver it all. Older siblings, friends, spouse, anything with hands. One of the harder components for me was managing to keep my eyes on both younger kids at the same time. And don't even get me started on how hard it can be to take them to the bathroom. Having 2 people really helps divide the work load.
~~~If you can try and find a resort that offers lots of assistance. Many of the ski resorts in Europe offer beautiful chalets set on some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world and then on top of that have amazing child care and ski lesson options. Check out www.skifamille.co.uk for more info on in chalet child care as well as group lessons and more. Its not even as expensive as you might think and certainly worth every penny!
~~~For money saving I strongly urge you to rent rather than buy. Some kids won't do much with skiing long term and even if they do its unlikely they will remain the same size for even 2 consecutive years See if any friends ski and borrow if possible or try and hit up a used equipment stores. If in BC there are 2 great ones in Vancouver.
~~~Layer up!! It may make those bathroom breaks harder but its the best way to tackle the freezing cold outside only to be overheated in the lodge. Also be sure to attach their misc items like gloves or hats. We've lost so many hats and gloves. And don't forget goggles as well as sunscreen to protect eyes and skin. It'll be more comfortable when out there and save a burn that will cut the fun short.
~~~Provide enough time to relax and be patient with your kids and yourselves. Take time getting to the resort so you can stop often and make it fun. Get there before lessons start so you can all get used to all the area and play in the snow before starting lessons. Leave extra time in the morning to get ready at a slow pace to avoid meltdowns before even officially starting the day. Relax and breathe, it will have its stressful moments but remember this is a vacation and meant to be fun!
~~~Safety first. Have them wear their helmets and be sure they understand how important it is for them to listen closely to the instructors. Collisions with trees and with other skiers is a real concern and should be taken seriously. And be sure insurance is all in order. Out of network or international coverage if that's applicable.
~~~Seems simple but have fun! Go out sledding or ice skating or bundle up in the resort or chalet with hot cocoa and a movie if they seem over whelmed or just plan sick of the cold. May be nice to get a room with a pool or hot tub for a change of pace.
~~~Package deals are not always the way to go but in regards to ski packages it usually is a cheaper offering and it just makes things go more smoothly once you get there. No need to buy one thing in this building and another in another building etc. It definitely saves time and almost always money as well. Win-win!
There you go. Some of the best tips for family ski vacations. In short the answer to the title question is yes. Yes you can ski with young kids. It will be challenging, exhausting and frustrating at times, but mostly fun and a memorable experience for all involved.
Have you been skiing with your children? Any tips to add? Let us know in the comments below!
It doesn't matter whether you're just a traveler or a businessman. You must have a VPN service installed in case you're packing for a trip abroad. Why? Not all countries are so liberal about Internet freedom. While your country is providing full access to most popular websites and social networks, the other part of the world has expressly forbidden them. Among those countries with a high level of the Internet, censorship are China, Qatar, Iran, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Belarus, Russia, Thailand, etc. So, what is the way out?
If you connect to a VPN service and have vpn software installed on your device, you won't have any problems accessing your favorite Internet content. It should be done in advance, as those countries mentioned above block not only social and political media content but also VPN services provided on the Net. So, if you decide to install a VPN after arriving in the country you're traveling to, this strategy will probably fail.
If you're not using a VPN while traveling, you're browsing the Internet wrong.
Why Do You Need VPNs on The Road?
As we have already mentioned, both travelers and businessmen can't go anywhere without a VPN, especially when traveling abroad. Why?
If you're putting most of your private and professional data in the cloud, you have to ensure that you're doing it 100% securely to avoid your data being stolen by hackers. Strong passwords and antivirus programs are not enough today to fully protect your devices. If you have multiple business trips all year round, you know how difficult it is not to use public networks somewhere in the airport, cafe, or hotel. And those are the places where using your devices makes them very vulnerable because of unprotected WiFi signals.
It Is High Time For A VPN
A VPN provides a tunnel, which is the connection between your smartphone/laptop and the Internet it comes through. A VPN encrypts all data, making it invisible to other people in the public network. You still can browse the Internet, answer the emails, receive messages in social media, and make banking operations. The only difference is that people outside your VPN tunnel can't see what you're doing. Your location will be hidden, too. The VPNs change the IP addresses of your smartphone, tablet, or whatever device you're using. For example, in one of the most Internet-banned countries – China – you can change the location saying "I'm not in China, I'm in the UK" while being still in China. The same way you get full access to your favorite websites, which are blocked in those countries. The only downside of using a VPN is that the speed of connection and uploading might be a little bit slower.
And now let's talk about the country with the highest level of Internet censorship in the world: China.
VPNs and the Internet in China
A number of websites are not accessible when you're using a standard Internet connection in China. To make it clear to you, we're going to name some of those banned web pages. In China, you cannot connect to:
So, what services are the best to use? Best VPN services to use in China are:
If you connect to a VPN service and have vpn software installed on your device, you won't have any problems accessing your favorite Internet content. It should be done in advance, as those countries mentioned above block not only social and political media content but also VPN services provided on the Net. So, if you decide to install a VPN after arriving in the country you're traveling to, this strategy will probably fail.
If you're not using a VPN while traveling, you're browsing the Internet wrong.
Why Do You Need VPNs on The Road?
As we have already mentioned, both travelers and businessmen can't go anywhere without a VPN, especially when traveling abroad. Why?
If you're putting most of your private and professional data in the cloud, you have to ensure that you're doing it 100% securely to avoid your data being stolen by hackers. Strong passwords and antivirus programs are not enough today to fully protect your devices. If you have multiple business trips all year round, you know how difficult it is not to use public networks somewhere in the airport, cafe, or hotel. And those are the places where using your devices makes them very vulnerable because of unprotected WiFi signals.
It Is High Time For A VPN
A VPN provides a tunnel, which is the connection between your smartphone/laptop and the Internet it comes through. A VPN encrypts all data, making it invisible to other people in the public network. You still can browse the Internet, answer the emails, receive messages in social media, and make banking operations. The only difference is that people outside your VPN tunnel can't see what you're doing. Your location will be hidden, too. The VPNs change the IP addresses of your smartphone, tablet, or whatever device you're using. For example, in one of the most Internet-banned countries – China – you can change the location saying "I'm not in China, I'm in the UK" while being still in China. The same way you get full access to your favorite websites, which are blocked in those countries. The only downside of using a VPN is that the speed of connection and uploading might be a little bit slower.
And now let's talk about the country with the highest level of Internet censorship in the world: China.
VPNs and the Internet in China
A number of websites are not accessible when you're using a standard Internet connection in China. To make it clear to you, we're going to name some of those banned web pages. In China, you cannot connect to:
- Google Maps
- YouTube
- Blogspot
- Vimeo
- SoundCloud
- Bloomberg
- AllMovie
- Reuters
- The Economist
- etc,etc,etc too long of a list to include them all
So, what services are the best to use? Best VPN services to use in China are:
- ExpressVPN
- AirVPN
- VyprVPN.
So, make your Internet a lot safer by using a good VPN, especially when traveling all over the world.