Mobile technology has come a long way. I remember the first touchscreen phone I had was the Sony Ericsson P900. Now we have so many new smartphones that the market is simply over-crowded. The same goes for the apps that these smartphones run.
The app market is so congested that there’s probably an app for everything. Which is fortunate for us avid travelers. The beauty of an expansive market is that there are a plethora of different apps to choose from. And you can do so on a whim, especially when you find the perfect app that suits your specific needs.
So, as a tech-savvy traveler, you'll need at least one of the following type of apps:
Travel Booking Apps - These apps allow you to secure accommodation both ahead of time and on short notice. You can never be too sure about having a place to stay. Apps like Agoda, SkyScanner, AirBnB, and Hotel Tonight are some of the most popular travel booking apps.
Map Apps - Every traveler needs to be able to orient himself with his surroundings. The easiest way to do this is with the use of any navigation app. The maps within these apps are updated periodically, so, you have a reliable map wherever you go because let’s face it. The most used prosthetics are mobile phones. There are a lot of navigation apps, but the most popular ones are Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze.
Ride Hailing Apps - Transportation is a major factor to consider, especially when you don’t have your vehicle available. While some of you may argue that it’s easy to simply get a cab, you need to keep in mind that you may find yourself in unfamiliar places. Ride-hailing services are safe, and they are also fair. You may be spending a small premium versus local cabs, but that’s a small price to pay for convenience, reliability, and safety — especially in places that are known for taxi scams. Grab, Lyft and Uber are a few of the most popular ride-hailing services. The best part is that these services are available in many countries worldwide.
Weather Apps - These apps are often overlooked on an ordinary day, but they are essential when you’re traveling. Knowing the current weather and the predicted weather patterns allows you to plan ahead on what supplies you need to bring and what type of clothes to wear. These weather apps also help you determine whether some activities you have planned on doing will still be doable. Every smartphone comes pre-installed with a weather app.
Communication Apps - Even in some of the most remote countries one can almost certainly find and internet connection. Which is extremely helpful for using any of these apps I have listed. One of the most difficult things when traveling is communication — or it used to be at least. I remember traveling to Europe and have to send letters that would take months to arrive back in the States. Now all you need is any basic internet connection and some of the many apps available for this purpose.
Whether you're on a vacation or traveling indefinitely having some of these apps will certainly come in handy. Do you know any other great apps? Let me know in the comments.
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With three layovers and a total of about thirty hours of travel, you could say we were relieved and excited to finally arrive in Siem Reap, Cambodia. My best friend, girlfriend and I had been planning our trip for months and finally, we made it. Without a plan for a place to stay, we grabbed a tuk tuk from the airport and heading into town.
Exploring the town brought back memories for me because I had been there five years ago with my family. And seeing a place that I once explored as a child, with the perspective I now have as a young adult was intriguing. This being my first real trip as an adult in another country, everything felt more real. Adventuring with our own budget and our own rules was something new to all of us and it felt great.
As we searched around for a cheap hostel I noticed so much more life in the booming traveler’s hub. Finding a place to stay was painless, the town is full of hostels which are great for meeting people and having a super cheap place to stay, if you’re willing to share a room of course. It’s understandable that it isn’t for everyone, but it’s perfectly suitable for three teenagers.
After about a week or so we wanted to have a little get away from the hustle and bustle of the hostel life. So, we started looking around for something a little nicer for a night or two. After doing some research we didn’t seem to find anything that caught our eyes until we were invited to stay at the Tresur d’Angkor Suite. We couldn’t pass up the surprisingly affordable resort. We booked a two-night stay and packed our bags!
When we arrived at the hotel we were greeted by a wonderful staff and some refreshments in the form of fresh cut coconuts. Every member of staff we interacted with were all very friendly and helpful with anything we needed. I could not be more pleased by their wonderful service.
We decided to have our days of exploring Angkor Wat and other surrounding temples to be the same days we were staying at Tresur d’Angkor. I cannot stress enough how great it was to come back to this relaxing haven and lounge by the pool after a full day of walking around in the Cambodian heat.
The rooms also had powerful air conditioning allowing for a nice escape from the heat. And if you’re looking for comfort you won’t be disappointed with some of the most comfortable beds we slept in on our trip.
We were treated to a four course meal at the their restaurant that was fantastic! Once again the service was splendid and the food was mouthwatering. Hats off too the chef and the rest of the kitchen crew.
The resort is somewhat of a hidden gem. It’s just far enough away to be difficult to find or maybe seems too far away from all the action. But being just a short 5-minute tuk tuk ride from the center of town, it makes for a great getaway. And grabbing a tuk tuk from the hotel is as simple as asking at the front desk.
The real beauty of being located outside of town is the amount of space they have. Instead of being crammed into a little lot, they had a charmingly landscaped wide-open space. With nine whitewashed villas and a total of eighteen rooms surrounding a huge freshwater pool, it really is a hidden paradise. The traditional Khmer style and more modern elements blend amazingly in the architecture and interior design of all the villas.
All and all, we were thrilled with our stay here and how affordable it is to have such a luxurious experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for some of the more modern comforts while off on an adventure.
After about a week or so we wanted to have a little get away from the hustle and bustle of the hostel life. So, we started looking around for something a little nicer for a night or two. After doing some research we didn’t seem to find anything that caught our eyes until we were invited to stay at the Tresur d’Angkor Suite. We couldn’t pass up the surprisingly affordable resort. We booked a two-night stay and packed our bags!
The rooms also had powerful air conditioning allowing for a nice escape from the heat. And if you’re looking for comfort you won’t be disappointed with some of the most comfortable beds we slept in on our trip.
The resort is somewhat of a hidden gem. It’s just far enough away to be difficult to find or maybe seems too far away from all the action. But being just a short 5-minute tuk tuk ride from the center of town, it makes for a great getaway. And grabbing a tuk tuk from the hotel is as simple as asking at the front desk.
All and all, we were thrilled with our stay here and how affordable it is to have such a luxurious experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for some of the more modern comforts while off on an adventure.
Many people already have South Africa on their bucket list and for good reason. Based at the southern most tip of Africa it is a beautiful location rife with safari destinations like Kruger National Park as well as stunning beaches perfect for surfing. There are also large bustling cities, stunning forests and of course the famous Table Mountain to explore.
Most people I encounter that have been or are planning a trip seem to look to Cape town or Johannesburg as the spot to lay their heads and explore. I recently discovered Durban and love the elements of adventure, beauty, and seemingly never ending list of things to do.
So follow me on a journey to discover why Durban should be part of your next African adventure.
How to get there and where to stay
Ok I know you want to get to the good bits, the adventure and all the fun things to do in the Durban area but getting there and knowing where to stay are pretty important too so lets get that part out of the way and then move on to all the fun to be had.
The easiest way in would be by plane. There is a brand new international airport located 40 KM's from the town center called King Shaka International airport. From there you can opt for a taxi (most expensive) or a shuttle to whatever hotel you are staying in.
Alternatively if you are already in the area or choose to fly into one of the bigger airports there is also bus service as well as train service directly to the city center. You can also take a cruise although there are not very many that port in Durban. Even a passage on a freighter is possible but only if you are looking for an interesting journey!
As for places to stay there is a lot of room for discovery. There are loads of great places to stay that fit just about any budget! Everything from a backpackers hostel to a luxury resort is available in the city and surrounding area, As with every post I write about where to stay I suggest you do some due diligence and focus on budget and location. We discovered early on in traveling that even if you have a great day rate if you are super far from where all the action is then you'll pay heaps getting around as well as waste time on all the in between.
Best budget option seems to be Black Mamba backpackers lodge, although the name may dissuade you. Too many mid range spots to pick just one. As for luxury there, again, are plenty of options but The Quays, locates right on the water looks to be about as luxurious as anyone could ever need.
What to see and do
South Africa has so much to offer and nearly all the good spots can be reached quite easily from Durban as a side trip. I won't bother mentioning all the must see spots on South Africa as most of you already have those on the bucket list. Instead I will focus on Durban specific sites. Here is a list of all the best ones that I have discovered:
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| Photo by Pe_Wu |
So follow me on a journey to discover why Durban should be part of your next African adventure.
How to get there and where to stay
Ok I know you want to get to the good bits, the adventure and all the fun things to do in the Durban area but getting there and knowing where to stay are pretty important too so lets get that part out of the way and then move on to all the fun to be had.
The easiest way in would be by plane. There is a brand new international airport located 40 KM's from the town center called King Shaka International airport. From there you can opt for a taxi (most expensive) or a shuttle to whatever hotel you are staying in.
Alternatively if you are already in the area or choose to fly into one of the bigger airports there is also bus service as well as train service directly to the city center. You can also take a cruise although there are not very many that port in Durban. Even a passage on a freighter is possible but only if you are looking for an interesting journey!
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| Photo by Simon Sutcliffe |
Best budget option seems to be Black Mamba backpackers lodge, although the name may dissuade you. Too many mid range spots to pick just one. As for luxury there, again, are plenty of options but The Quays, locates right on the water looks to be about as luxurious as anyone could ever need.
What to see and do
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| Photo by Brian Snelson |
- Durban Botanical Gardens
- Berea Ridge
- City Hall, art gallery and library
- Crocodile Creek
- Ghandi Setlement
- Japanese Gardens
- Golden Mile beaches
- Skydive
- Casino nights
- uShaka Marine world
- Greyville Horse racing course
- Shark Institute
- Blue Wilderness Marine adventures
- Multiple festivals throughout the year
- Yacht charter centers
- Shopping at: Gateway Theater of shopping, Victoria Street market, Pavillion, African Arts Center, BAT center on the waterfront
- Umgeni River Bird Park
- Mitchell Park Zoo
- Explore and shop the Indian district
- Tala Game Reserve
So as you can see there is no shortage of fun to be had for people of all ages. Everything from lounging on the beach, to gambling at the casino or horse track to viewing some of the best wildlife in the world. There is one amazing adventure to be had after another!
So only one last thing to do....book your flight and head to Durban now!!
When you come to the end of your vacation it can sometimes be accompanied by a bit of depression. Who am I kidding, I think it always comes with depression. Missing all the yummy food you didn't have to make or clean up after, lounging on the deck of your luxury cruise, and all the free from responsibility feelings are a sad thing to say goodbye to. I personally experienced this so much I decided to turn my home into a sort of retreat that way when the vacations end I have a little bit of luxury to look forward to even when returning home.
Sheets is the first stop on the how to train. We recently got a set of Cariloha bamboo sheets and although they are a bit pricey they are totally worth it. Even the package they come in is fancy and so much nicer than any regular set of sheets. I think they are the softest sheets I have ever slept on and that includes in any cruise ship i've ever been in, I love that they are 100% bamboo as well so you know it's about as sustainable as it gets. Sheets are so important for that luxury feel since it is what you actually feel as you slumber.
For the bathroom it's a lot easier. Grab some higher end accessories. Really it doesn't even need to be that expensive just products that catch your eye and make you happy. I also like to have a nice plush bathrobe for getting in and out of the shower or tub, nothing says a fancy resort or cruise like a soft terry bathrobe and slippers! At Blu hotel in Sydney they even had those for the kids!
Bed and Bath
For me the most important room to focus on is the bedroom. If staying in a luxury resort or on a beautiful cruise liner the bedroom is the main area you will call your own. At home it is usually the same, your one semi private area that you can call your own. Well that is when the kids aren't co sleeping or playing hide and seek in your closet but I digress..
Lets start with the bed! For us that is the number 1 priority in the house in regards to spending that little extra cash in order to have comfort. In all our time in hotels over the years that, to me, is where the real separation happens between mid range and luxury. So make your bed as nice as those high end resorts!
After the sheets you have to consider the blankets or comforter. Now when you walk into a nice 4 star resort or high end room on a cruise what does the bed look like? That's right piled high with amazing pillows and a fluffy soft and warm comforter. The absolute best in my opinion is a goose down comforter. If you can get 100% then all the better. Nothing feel more luxurious than settling in for sleep on bamboo sheets wrapped up in a soft down comforter. To find the best down comforters (there are many and they are NOT all created equally) check out an independent review site.
Rest of the house
After years of both exorbitant spending and then simplifying and living as minimally as we could we have really come to a conclusion. I want, no actually need, to love what I am looking at in my day to day life. If that means spending money on a vase that I adore or a painting that just feeds my soul then that is what I am going to do. There is a nice middle ground between blowing money on worthless stuff that doesn't even carry any meaning and living with absolutely no decorations at all.
I spent so many years battling against the desire to create a luxury feel in my home and although I have no regrets as it gave us a lot of clarity I have found the middle ground to be amazing. I love my drive home but also want to feel happy in and proud of my space. Splurge on those items that you really connect with and simply make the whole house feel like a home you can be proud of, a home you want visitors at, and a home that, when you return from that luxury cruise, you feel excited to return to.
After years of both exorbitant spending and then simplifying and living as minimally as we could we have really come to a conclusion. I want, no actually need, to love what I am looking at in my day to day life. If that means spending money on a vase that I adore or a painting that just feeds my soul then that is what I am going to do. There is a nice middle ground between blowing money on worthless stuff that doesn't even carry any meaning and living with absolutely no decorations at all.
I spent so many years battling against the desire to create a luxury feel in my home and although I have no regrets as it gave us a lot of clarity I have found the middle ground to be amazing. I love my drive home but also want to feel happy in and proud of my space. Splurge on those items that you really connect with and simply make the whole house feel like a home you can be proud of, a home you want visitors at, and a home that, when you return from that luxury cruise, you feel excited to return to.
As we looked back today on our travel in Malaysia I found myself feeling really nostalgic for a spot that not too many people visit. We loved Kuala Lumpur for the beautiful city life and amazing places to explore, adored the process of looking for and booking an apartment for longer stay in Penang, and reveled in the uber relaxing atmosphere of the Perhentian Islands but the spot I think about most often these days in Cameron Highlands.
Cameron Highlands is a small cluster of towns up in the mountains of central Malaysia. We originally decided to visit as an escape from the heat but quickly fell in love with the area and ended up staying 3 weeks.
Getting there
There is no airport or train service up to Cameron so you basically have 2 options. Rent a car or do what we did and ride the bus. We took the bus from Georgetown in Penang but there is also service to Cameron Highlands from most major towns and cities throughout Malaysia. The midway point is Ipoh, another really cool little town, and you can take a train there and then the bus from that point but I think the bus ride all the way is the most used route.
The bus ride was about 3-5 hours depending on traffic and how many stops you make. We opted for the nicer VIP bus but even those do not have bathrooms on board. No idea why nearly every bus in Asia is missing that vital component but that just seems to be the way it is. We stopped once and hit a little traffic so start to finish was roughly 4 hours. I highly suggest going with the VIP bus as the seats were very comfortable and the bus was not even close to full. I believe it cost about $12 per person.
Where to stay
There are 3 main towns in the Highlands; Brinchang, Tanah Rata, and Ringlet. Most tourists head to Brinchang and/or Tanah Rata as they offer the best proximity to most attractions as well as lodging and food options. There is even a KFC in Brinchang and a Starbucks in Tanah Rata!
Getting there
There is no airport or train service up to Cameron so you basically have 2 options. Rent a car or do what we did and ride the bus. We took the bus from Georgetown in Penang but there is also service to Cameron Highlands from most major towns and cities throughout Malaysia. The midway point is Ipoh, another really cool little town, and you can take a train there and then the bus from that point but I think the bus ride all the way is the most used route.
The bus ride was about 3-5 hours depending on traffic and how many stops you make. We opted for the nicer VIP bus but even those do not have bathrooms on board. No idea why nearly every bus in Asia is missing that vital component but that just seems to be the way it is. We stopped once and hit a little traffic so start to finish was roughly 4 hours. I highly suggest going with the VIP bus as the seats were very comfortable and the bus was not even close to full. I believe it cost about $12 per person.
Where to stay
There are 3 main towns in the Highlands; Brinchang, Tanah Rata, and Ringlet. Most tourists head to Brinchang and/or Tanah Rata as they offer the best proximity to most attractions as well as lodging and food options. There is even a KFC in Brinchang and a Starbucks in Tanah Rata!
We liked Brinchang a lot and it is where you will find the night market but we did prefer Tanah Rata with its cute walking street and parks. We found it had more green space to play and more of a Swiss lodge feel to the hotels. There are almost too many hotels to choose from! You can wait until you get there but that can be a bit dodgy and if arriving late you may not want to cart your stuff all around looking for a hotel. I prefer to book online for a couple nights at least, that way you can relax, have a spot right away, and if you don't like it at least you don't have to drag your stuff all over trying to find a suitable replacement.
We stayed in a variety of spots in Cameron Highlands. Our favorite higher end hotels (about $100 a night) were the Strawberry Park Resort and the Cameron Highlands Resort. Favorite mid range (around $40 a night) was the Hillview Inn with loads of green spaces and fun spots for the kids to explore and the Heritage Hotel. Favorite budget spots (Under $20 a night), which is where we spent most of our time, were the Check in Hotel and the Snooze inn, both centrally located. Nothing fancy but clean and comfortable!
Where to eat
The absolute best and most inexpensive spot to eat is at the night walking market in Brinchang. My family of 5 could get pizza, burgers, and amazing corn on the cob (or local fare but we had our fill by the time we discovered this market) for about $10 total! It was our favorite while there. Other budget options are the many local street vendors (just go to the ones with the most locals eating at it), and the KFC strategically placed in the town center.
If you want a nice mid range and more local fare there are amazing steamboat cuisine spots where you get a nice boiling pot of water at the table (imagine them letting a boiling pot of water sit at your table in the US) and literally cook your own foods in it. They bring an assortment of meats and veggies and you dump them in and watch it cook. Pretty cool although the smell was a bit off putting to walk by (think burning hair). You can also eat at many of the strawberry farms for a decent price. We had some amazing strawberry laced meals and the butter lettuce smoothie was out of this world. We are still trying to replicate it 5 years later!
Higher end you'll want to eat at one of the nicer resorts, that was our experience anyway and not one we really explored too much. If you are dying to spend $50+ on a meal then that would be your best bet although I discourage the idea as the street foods are so wonderfully fresh and delicious.
What to do
The list of fun and unique things to do in the area is quite long and since I have already droned on too long I will leave you with this list. You can find more info here on my site or do some google searching to see if it is a good fit for your family. We enjoyed each and every one of these spots:
- Tea plantations
- Gunung Brinchang
- Mossy Forest
- Strawberry farm
- Night walking market
- Cactus farm
- Parit Waterfall
- Bee farm
- Robinson waterfall
- Jungle walk to the worlds biggest flower (and its HUGE)
- Butterfly farm
- Sam Poh Buddhist temple
- TempleSri Thandayuthapani Swamy Hindu temple
- Pos Rantau - an orang asli village
- Cave tour
- Water rafting
Final Tips
~The weather is nice and cool in Cameron but there is a strong rainy season in April, Sept, and October. If you want to avoid the rains definitely do not go during that time period. Even if you go another month you will most likely still get some rain so bring rain gear and warm clothes.
~If you are going to trek or check out any caves it is best to go with a guide. It is far too easy to get lost and when the cool rain comes in you'll be glad you are with someone who knows the fastest way back. Plus they know all the cool spots to check out!
~You can get between the towns via taxi, scooter rental, or bus! Cheap and easy! Its too far to walk to most spots and I wouldn't suggest hitch hiking..
~If you are taking the bus to Cameron I would be sure and take some Dramamine if you are prone to motion illness. It's a beautiful drive but very twisty.
Have you been to Cameron Highlands? What tips do you have for our readers? Leave them in the comments below!
When you visit Sydney there are the ultimate bucket list destinations that are an essential part of any Australian holiday. When you have children, of course, this list is tailored to meet their needs but still includes the iconic Opera House, Bondi Beach, and more.
Here are three things to do in Sydney that will give you that family harmony allowing you to maintain that level of fun the kid’s desire while also providing you with some relaxing outlets, in essence as way to find the perfect family holiday balance in Sydney.
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is one of the top sights to see in Sydney. A Giant playground for both adults and children alike, a trip to Darling Harbour will leave you wanting for nothing. There is a constant
rotation of events on in Darling Harbour from Dragon Boat Races during Chinese New Year in February to the Yule Festival in July and in between you can find a number of cultural events taking place that promises and also delivers great cuisine, live music and cultural activities. Beyond the planned events that occur in the Harbour, there are a number of amazing restaurants, bars and cafes. However, it is the Darling Quarter Kids Playground that truly takes the cake. Complete with miniature water park, balance ropes, giant steel slides and a flying fox, this playground will keep the children entertained for hours; it is nearly impossible to tear them away from all the attractions.
While tickets for the show are a bit pricey, $79.90 for adult and $59.90 for child, you can combine your pirate adventure with an all-day unlimited rides pass ticket to Luna Park for only $10.00 more per person. The kids will definitely be thanking you after a trip to this amusement park which has graced Sydney’s shoreline since 1935.
Child Friendly Pubs
At the end of the long day sightseeing sometimes all you want to do is park it in a pub and enjoy the
rest of your evening with a glass of wine or cold beer, some good eats too. When you have children
however, this luxury doesn’t always come around or isn’t always as easy as you would like it to be. Luckily Sydney has several child friendly pubs scattered all over the city; some of them may even
make you want to be a kid again. Following RSA guidelines to ensure your evening is everything you
expect it to be, these premises allow children to be on site until 10:00 pm but must always be supervised by a responsible adult.
The Australian Brewery and Hotel is one pub that seems to almost cater to children more than they
do adults, but let’s not forget their happiness is the key to our peace and quiet. This brewery is complete with a separate family dining space to give the families some time away from the rest of
the crowd at the pub and two big play rooms that can be viewed from your table. There is a play
room for the younger children with soft mats and a tv as well as a play room for the older children
with a play gym and coin operated games. If you make it to the pub on the weekends the Australian Brewery and Hotel offers face painting and pizza making on Sunday night.
Another option that is a must visit is the Ettamogah Hotel. This pub centres on the community and
families making their establishment a place that can be enjoyed by all 7 days a week. The highlights include an arcade room, play gym, which they boast is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, jumping castle and rock climbing. Children weighing more than 15 kgs can give the rock climbing a go and learn how to climb and rappel down the wall with help from fully trained and qualified staff for only $5.00 a session.
You will likely make a stop to Taronga Zoo and take in, not only to see some amazing animals, but also to enjoy some spectacular views. The view from the giraffe enclosure showcases some prime real estate of the Sydney Harbour. The aquarium and wild life park will also be on your list, as well as must stops in the heart of the CBD, the rocks area which is full of lively history, the Queen Victoria Building and the Sydney Tower as well.
However, after all these days spent taking in the sights you may be in some serious need for some
adult activities. Good parenting 101 places emphasis on balance, to find something for the kids to do while you are enjoying yourself as well is, as the kids might say, even-steven.
Here are three things to do in Sydney that will give you that family harmony allowing you to maintain that level of fun the kid’s desire while also providing you with some relaxing outlets, in essence as way to find the perfect family holiday balance in Sydney.
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is one of the top sights to see in Sydney. A Giant playground for both adults and children alike, a trip to Darling Harbour will leave you wanting for nothing. There is a constant
rotation of events on in Darling Harbour from Dragon Boat Races during Chinese New Year in February to the Yule Festival in July and in between you can find a number of cultural events taking place that promises and also delivers great cuisine, live music and cultural activities. Beyond the planned events that occur in the Harbour, there are a number of amazing restaurants, bars and cafes. However, it is the Darling Quarter Kids Playground that truly takes the cake. Complete with miniature water park, balance ropes, giant steel slides and a flying fox, this playground will keep the children entertained for hours; it is nearly impossible to tear them away from all the attractions.
The best part about this park would be its prime location, where adjacent lies great eateries and bars for the adults to enjoy. The park is close enough for you to keep a close eye on the kids while also being able to enjoy a cold beer or even a gourmet hot chocolate or coffee from Guylians.
While in the area be sure to check out the botanical gardens as a great picnic spot with loads of pen green space for the kids to run around not to mention some of the best views of the opera house that we found.
While in the area be sure to check out the botanical gardens as a great picnic spot with loads of pen green space for the kids to run around not to mention some of the best views of the opera house that we found.
Sydney Harbour from the Water
The best views of Sydney can be taken from the water. There are many boating options available to you while you are on holiday or even just looking for a weekend outing. However, to keep the
children entertained while out on the water can be another matter. What is sure to spark their interest and be a big hit however, is a ride on a tall ship through Sydney Harbour. Attack of the Pirates is an adventure filled, thrilling show all on board Sydney’s own pirate tall ship. There will be music, cannons and sword fights all while you are taking in some breathtaking views of the Opera House, Circular Quay and Sydney’s North Shore. They have a bar on board serving a number of refreshments including beer and wine. All staff are fully trained in responsible service of alcohol to
ensure everyone on board stays on board and has some good family fun.
The best views of Sydney can be taken from the water. There are many boating options available to you while you are on holiday or even just looking for a weekend outing. However, to keep the
children entertained while out on the water can be another matter. What is sure to spark their interest and be a big hit however, is a ride on a tall ship through Sydney Harbour. Attack of the Pirates is an adventure filled, thrilling show all on board Sydney’s own pirate tall ship. There will be music, cannons and sword fights all while you are taking in some breathtaking views of the Opera House, Circular Quay and Sydney’s North Shore. They have a bar on board serving a number of refreshments including beer and wine. All staff are fully trained in responsible service of alcohol to
ensure everyone on board stays on board and has some good family fun.
While tickets for the show are a bit pricey, $79.90 for adult and $59.90 for child, you can combine your pirate adventure with an all-day unlimited rides pass ticket to Luna Park for only $10.00 more per person. The kids will definitely be thanking you after a trip to this amusement park which has graced Sydney’s shoreline since 1935.
Child Friendly Pubs
At the end of the long day sightseeing sometimes all you want to do is park it in a pub and enjoy the
rest of your evening with a glass of wine or cold beer, some good eats too. When you have children
however, this luxury doesn’t always come around or isn’t always as easy as you would like it to be. Luckily Sydney has several child friendly pubs scattered all over the city; some of them may even
make you want to be a kid again. Following RSA guidelines to ensure your evening is everything you
expect it to be, these premises allow children to be on site until 10:00 pm but must always be supervised by a responsible adult.
The Australian Brewery and Hotel is one pub that seems to almost cater to children more than they
do adults, but let’s not forget their happiness is the key to our peace and quiet. This brewery is complete with a separate family dining space to give the families some time away from the rest of
the crowd at the pub and two big play rooms that can be viewed from your table. There is a play
room for the younger children with soft mats and a tv as well as a play room for the older children
with a play gym and coin operated games. If you make it to the pub on the weekends the Australian Brewery and Hotel offers face painting and pizza making on Sunday night.
Another option that is a must visit is the Ettamogah Hotel. This pub centres on the community and
families making their establishment a place that can be enjoyed by all 7 days a week. The highlights include an arcade room, play gym, which they boast is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, jumping castle and rock climbing. Children weighing more than 15 kgs can give the rock climbing a go and learn how to climb and rappel down the wall with help from fully trained and qualified staff for only $5.00 a session.
So what do you think? Have you been to Sydney and found other ways to strike that balance? Tell us about it in the comments below!
So many people want to visit Hawaii. I mean why not right?? It is beautiful, adventurous, exotic, and expensive..oh wait that last bit is not exactly a positive is it? In fact it is the most common reason that people do NOT visit Hawaii.
After living there for 3 years I can attest to the fact that yes it is expensive, more expensive than any other state to visit. But I can also attest to the fact that it can be done for far less money than people think.
No need to stay in fancy resorts, take all the, made for tourists, tours, or eat out every meal. There is a better way, a more affordable way to enjoy the paradise that is Hawaii. I get asked all the time, how to visit Hawaii affordably, and so finally here is my response:
There are countless ways to save when staying in Hawaii. To start with you have to pick the island that is right for you. When it comes to finances I have found the Big Island to be the most affordable with the Hilo side being the most affordable on the whole island. It is a desirable place to visit because of Kilauea, the most easily accessible active volcano in the world, and due to the high levels of rain leading to glorious waterfalls and stunning greenery.
Lodging
There are numerous ways you can save on lodging in the Hilo area of Hawaii. There are air bnb's, house sitting opportunities, and a few scattered hostels that can assist many people. Often times though they come with hidden fees and house sitting, well that is a tough nut to crack here in Hawaii.
When you think of vacation most people envision staying in a lovely hotel or resort where they can have a full break. No cooking, no cleaning, and a nice cozy spot to relax while inside. I have stayed at quite a few hotels in the area and by far the most affordable option, that gives the most bang for your buck is the Hilo Naniloa hotel.
It is under new management and is undergoing some amazing transformations. The lobby is stunning, the rooms are newly redone, maybe not perfect but at the prices they charge who cares?! The beds and bedding are comfy and everything is clean. The hotel is located on the ocean making the views outstanding, you can even see Mauna Kea from most of the property, when she is cooperating that is. There is also a beautiful park next door, free golf when you stay, and both restaurants and an international airport are close by.
There is a pool, ocean entry with really beautiful tide pools and colorful fish, fast wifi (will be in all rooms soon), a nice breakfast buffet, and big fridges in every room. The prices will go up slightly when all the rooms are renovated but it will still be the most affordable hotel in the area. No doubt the most bang for your buck in the area!
Eating
If you stay in a place like the Naniloa where there is a fridge or even a microwave we oftentimes buy sandwich stuff and cereal and juice. This helps us cover breakfasts or lunches and saves a ton. When you only eat one meal out it can save you hundreds of dollars over a weeks time.
There are also some great affordable restaurants in the area. Big Island pizza, Hilo Burger Joint, Kamana kitchen, and the newly opened Wikifresh are all great options for healthy, locally grown and more affordable grindz in the area. Look around, keep some snacks and easy meals in the room and you'll be surprised how much you can save. Milk may cost close to $8 a gallon but shopping wisely and thinking ahead can really help out if not for the milk at least for everything else.
Activities
Now this is where Hawaii edges so many places out on ability to save money. Between beaches and hiking options alone you can see the best that Hawaii has to offer without spending a dime other than on gas.
Here is a list of free or inexpensive places to enjoy:
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| Mauna Kea from Puna |
No need to stay in fancy resorts, take all the, made for tourists, tours, or eat out every meal. There is a better way, a more affordable way to enjoy the paradise that is Hawaii. I get asked all the time, how to visit Hawaii affordably, and so finally here is my response:
There are countless ways to save when staying in Hawaii. To start with you have to pick the island that is right for you. When it comes to finances I have found the Big Island to be the most affordable with the Hilo side being the most affordable on the whole island. It is a desirable place to visit because of Kilauea, the most easily accessible active volcano in the world, and due to the high levels of rain leading to glorious waterfalls and stunning greenery.
 |
| Akaka Falls |
There are numerous ways you can save on lodging in the Hilo area of Hawaii. There are air bnb's, house sitting opportunities, and a few scattered hostels that can assist many people. Often times though they come with hidden fees and house sitting, well that is a tough nut to crack here in Hawaii.
 |
| Attention to detail can be witnessed all over the property |
It is under new management and is undergoing some amazing transformations. The lobby is stunning, the rooms are newly redone, maybe not perfect but at the prices they charge who cares?! The beds and bedding are comfy and everything is clean. The hotel is located on the ocean making the views outstanding, you can even see Mauna Kea from most of the property, when she is cooperating that is. There is also a beautiful park next door, free golf when you stay, and both restaurants and an international airport are close by.
 |
| Comfy room, beautiful ocean and Mauna Kea views |
Eating
If you stay in a place like the Naniloa where there is a fridge or even a microwave we oftentimes buy sandwich stuff and cereal and juice. This helps us cover breakfasts or lunches and saves a ton. When you only eat one meal out it can save you hundreds of dollars over a weeks time.
 |
| Macadamia nut |
Activities
Now this is where Hawaii edges so many places out on ability to save money. Between beaches and hiking options alone you can see the best that Hawaii has to offer without spending a dime other than on gas.
 |
| Resident turtle at Carl Smith beach park in Hilo |
- Rainbow Falls, Hilo
- Boiling Pots, Hilo
- Akaka falls state park, North of Hilo
- Waipio Valley lookout, North of Hilo
- Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut factory, South of Hilo
- Kalapana Lave Viewing, Puna
- Lava Tree state park, Puna
- Red road drive, Puna
- All beaches but preferred in the area are Carl Smith (great for turtles), Pohoiki (surfing) Honolii (great for sea glass and surfing), and Richardsons (great family beach, calm waters)
- Drive up Mauna Kea for sunset or skiing
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| Mauna Kea skiing |
- Ahalanui hot ponds, Puna
- Walk the town center
- Enjoy all the local goods at the Hilo Farmers Market
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (lava tubes, lookouts, petroglyph trail, loads of hiking)
- Drive the Hamakua Coast, North of Hilo
- Hike to Black sand or green sand beaches on Southern part of island
- View the most Southern point of the US where people leap off the ocean cliff into the water
As you can see there is a huge list of free or really inexpensive things to do in the Hilo area. There are great tours as well like zip lining, quad riding through Waipio valley, whale watching, etc and although those are also great options and in my opinion worth the splurge you can still enjoy all the beauty Hawaii has to offer if you skip them. If you expand to Kona, which is only a 2 hour drive and can easily be a day trip, you get even more options for culture, swimming, and seeing native wildlife. There is something for each and every budget!
There are loads of ways to save money on a trip to Hawaii. It may take a little more work and it may not look as luxurious as the ways most people spend there time in Hawaii but I find you actually get to see more of Hawaii this way giving you a beautiful vacation and a better sense of the culture.
Have you been to Hawaii? Any cost saving tips? Share below in the comments!
As we are preparing to leave the Big Island of Hawaii there is a mental check list of places I want to explore a little more deeply. The small town of Hawi is one of them!
2 years ago a monk seal was born on the beach up in Northern Kohala and when we went to check him out a bit we drove through the charming little towns up there. Each blends into the next with no clear distinction but they are charming, sleepy and places I knew I wanted to spend more time in.
We are leaving in May so only have a little over a month left. With my birthday coming and the fact that we almost always choose experiences over gifts I knew this was my chance. So we booked a hotel, researched what we wanted to do while there and after stopping at Tex's for hot malasadas we were on our way for a 3 day adventure!
Hotels
For starters there really are not very many hotels in the area at all. One that stands out though is the Kohala Village Inn. More than just a place to lay your head this is a beautiful property in the heart of Hawi that is more a community space or hub as they call it. There are beautifully appointed plantation style rooms, a cafe, food shop, CSA where locally grown food is the centerpiece, a children's playground, and a large barn where they hold community programs and workshops. I love how invested in the community they are.
The room we stayed in was lovely for a family as it was 2 adorable rooms connected with a shared bathroom, giving everyone a little more space. 1 room had a Queen bed and the other room 2 double beds, perfect for our family of 5. The rooms had a really authentic feel, something I really appreciated. It felt so welcoming and more like a hostel because of the communal vibe but with much nicer rooms and privacy. There is an open area with books, couches, water cooler, a large dining table as well as a refrigerator (had a private one in our room as well) and microwave available for every one's use.
Comfort is a vital component to any hotel stay and the Kohala Village Inn had that in spades but another component that we have found through the years, that is almost as important as comfort, is location! That was the other great thing about this hotel, it was perfectly placed right in the middle of Hawi, so easy to walk around and enjoy the art galleries, restaurants and cafes but it was set back enough that there was no noise issue at all at night or in the morning. It was also right across the street from a nice locals mini mart type store as well as the meeting spots for some of the more popular adventure activities in the area.
We stayed 2 nights and loved it. The town is quite sleepy at night but we brought games, and there was a TV with cable in each room not to mention the great playground my younger boys loved!
Flumin'
One of the coolest things to do in the area is to flume, or kayak, down the old ditch system. 100+ years ago when there was a lot of sugar cane production in the area an irrigation ditch was built to provide enough water for the crops. When the sugar cane production left the island the ditch remained. It is actually in remarkably good shape due to these companies and the upkeep they provide.
You start the tour in a 4x4 van looking at various lookout points around the area, most of which are off limits unless you are doing a tour like this one with Flumin' Kohala. The tour then moves on to a short walk through the jungle to reach the starting point of the flume. The best part about it was all the information that the guides were able to share. They were helpful, fun, and so passionate about the area. You are required to wear a small life saving belt and closed toed shoes and that's about it for requirements. We wore our suits and had a chance to jump out and swim a bit, which was a nice reprieve from the heat.
I put together a little video below that shows what the flume is like. We had a great time and learned a great deal about King Kamehameha and the surrounding area.
Tip: Bring water there was none provided until the end of the tour and we got pretty thirsty. Also good to bring some towels along with you. You WILL get wet!
Views
I've been hearing about Pololu lookout for the past few months. For some reason I didn't even know it existed when we went all the way up there to see the baby monk seal so as I contemplated the what to do aspect of this trip I knew that had to make the list. I had heard the hike was a bit rough so I decided to wait and make a decision when we got to the lookout.
As soon as we approached the lookout we were blown away, stunning seaside cliffs, large valleys, and waterfalls drifting off the cliffs into the ocean below. I took a look at the hike starting point and although quite steep I decided to go for it. It was just my oldest son and I as the littles had enough and wanted to stay at the playground.
The hike down took about 30-40 minutes because it was a little slick and muddy. It was beautiful really, loads of spots to sort of stand to the side, take a break and soak in one stunning vista after another. At the bottom there is a lovely black sand beach and a small little river, loads of balancing rocks, some hammocks, and just a generally cool vibe. We hung out for quite some time enjoying the peace as not very many people were there at all and then hiked back up. The way back only took about 20 minutes but was much harder cardio wise. The path is mostly covered too so not too hot.
Tips: Definitely bring some water and a snack. Try to take any valuables with you as there is some theft from the cars at times. Watch the current well before getting in the water. It was deceptively calm while we were there but upon more inspection there was quite a strong current and no lifeguards anywhere. Also as you head over to Hawi be sure to drive slow and look around, it is my favorite area on the island with sloping green hills and stunning 180 degree + sweeping ocean views!
Beaches
North Kohala does not have any white sand beaches unless you head down towards Southern Kohala and visit Hapuna, Spencer, or Mauna Kea beaches. Those would be about a 40 minute drive from Hawi. The beaches up in Hawi area are Pololu beach (the black sand beach I mentioned above), Keokea beach where we were honored to see the baby monk seal a few times but is more of a rocky beach, Kapa'a Beach park which is also a rocky beach where monk seals often rest, or Mahukona, also a rocky beach.
We visited all these beaches and they all have facilities like bathrooms and showers. But definitely bring water and snacks as there is not much of that kind of thing around.
History and Culture
As I said before I did a lot of research for this little mini trip. I quickly realized that there was a lot of cultural experiences to be had in this area of the island. But sadly we were unable to actually get to any. They all involve at least a little bit of hiking and after all our other activities we were just out of daylight. A reason to return soon I guess.
If you want to head that way try and visit King Kamehameha's birthplace within Kohala historical sites state monument and Lapakahi state historical park. I don't have a wealth of knowledge about these spots but they can offer you a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life.
2 years ago a monk seal was born on the beach up in Northern Kohala and when we went to check him out a bit we drove through the charming little towns up there. Each blends into the next with no clear distinction but they are charming, sleepy and places I knew I wanted to spend more time in.
We are leaving in May so only have a little over a month left. With my birthday coming and the fact that we almost always choose experiences over gifts I knew this was my chance. So we booked a hotel, researched what we wanted to do while there and after stopping at Tex's for hot malasadas we were on our way for a 3 day adventure!
Hotels
For starters there really are not very many hotels in the area at all. One that stands out though is the Kohala Village Inn. More than just a place to lay your head this is a beautiful property in the heart of Hawi that is more a community space or hub as they call it. There are beautifully appointed plantation style rooms, a cafe, food shop, CSA where locally grown food is the centerpiece, a children's playground, and a large barn where they hold community programs and workshops. I love how invested in the community they are.
The room we stayed in was lovely for a family as it was 2 adorable rooms connected with a shared bathroom, giving everyone a little more space. 1 room had a Queen bed and the other room 2 double beds, perfect for our family of 5. The rooms had a really authentic feel, something I really appreciated. It felt so welcoming and more like a hostel because of the communal vibe but with much nicer rooms and privacy. There is an open area with books, couches, water cooler, a large dining table as well as a refrigerator (had a private one in our room as well) and microwave available for every one's use.
Comfort is a vital component to any hotel stay and the Kohala Village Inn had that in spades but another component that we have found through the years, that is almost as important as comfort, is location! That was the other great thing about this hotel, it was perfectly placed right in the middle of Hawi, so easy to walk around and enjoy the art galleries, restaurants and cafes but it was set back enough that there was no noise issue at all at night or in the morning. It was also right across the street from a nice locals mini mart type store as well as the meeting spots for some of the more popular adventure activities in the area.
We stayed 2 nights and loved it. The town is quite sleepy at night but we brought games, and there was a TV with cable in each room not to mention the great playground my younger boys loved!
Flumin'
One of the coolest things to do in the area is to flume, or kayak, down the old ditch system. 100+ years ago when there was a lot of sugar cane production in the area an irrigation ditch was built to provide enough water for the crops. When the sugar cane production left the island the ditch remained. It is actually in remarkably good shape due to these companies and the upkeep they provide.
You start the tour in a 4x4 van looking at various lookout points around the area, most of which are off limits unless you are doing a tour like this one with Flumin' Kohala. The tour then moves on to a short walk through the jungle to reach the starting point of the flume. The best part about it was all the information that the guides were able to share. They were helpful, fun, and so passionate about the area. You are required to wear a small life saving belt and closed toed shoes and that's about it for requirements. We wore our suits and had a chance to jump out and swim a bit, which was a nice reprieve from the heat.
I put together a little video below that shows what the flume is like. We had a great time and learned a great deal about King Kamehameha and the surrounding area.
Tip: Bring water there was none provided until the end of the tour and we got pretty thirsty. Also good to bring some towels along with you. You WILL get wet!
Views
I've been hearing about Pololu lookout for the past few months. For some reason I didn't even know it existed when we went all the way up there to see the baby monk seal so as I contemplated the what to do aspect of this trip I knew that had to make the list. I had heard the hike was a bit rough so I decided to wait and make a decision when we got to the lookout.
As soon as we approached the lookout we were blown away, stunning seaside cliffs, large valleys, and waterfalls drifting off the cliffs into the ocean below. I took a look at the hike starting point and although quite steep I decided to go for it. It was just my oldest son and I as the littles had enough and wanted to stay at the playground.
The hike down took about 30-40 minutes because it was a little slick and muddy. It was beautiful really, loads of spots to sort of stand to the side, take a break and soak in one stunning vista after another. At the bottom there is a lovely black sand beach and a small little river, loads of balancing rocks, some hammocks, and just a generally cool vibe. We hung out for quite some time enjoying the peace as not very many people were there at all and then hiked back up. The way back only took about 20 minutes but was much harder cardio wise. The path is mostly covered too so not too hot.
Tips: Definitely bring some water and a snack. Try to take any valuables with you as there is some theft from the cars at times. Watch the current well before getting in the water. It was deceptively calm while we were there but upon more inspection there was quite a strong current and no lifeguards anywhere. Also as you head over to Hawi be sure to drive slow and look around, it is my favorite area on the island with sloping green hills and stunning 180 degree + sweeping ocean views!
Beaches
We visited all these beaches and they all have facilities like bathrooms and showers. But definitely bring water and snacks as there is not much of that kind of thing around.
History and Culture
As I said before I did a lot of research for this little mini trip. I quickly realized that there was a lot of cultural experiences to be had in this area of the island. But sadly we were unable to actually get to any. They all involve at least a little bit of hiking and after all our other activities we were just out of daylight. A reason to return soon I guess.
If you want to head that way try and visit King Kamehameha's birthplace within Kohala historical sites state monument and Lapakahi state historical park. I don't have a wealth of knowledge about these spots but they can offer you a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life.
Have you been to Hawi? What did you think? Where did you go? Tell us about it in the comments below!