2020 EDITION
+
FAMILY TRAVEL HANDBOOK
WHERE TO GO • TRIP PLANNING • ON THE GROUND
FAMILY TRAVEL HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER OR MORE FUN! TRIP INSPIRATION • BEST RESOURCES • EXPERT ADVICE TOUR COMPANIES • TRAVEL IN STYLE
Contents
3-8 WHERE TO GO Travel Style Vacation Hotspots Going Abroad
9-14 PRE-TRIP PLANNING Research & Inspiration Family Travel Planners Hotel & Vacation Rental Resources Mom's vacation essentials Booking Timeline / To Do List Twist Travel Calendar
15-19 ON THE GROUND Best Practices & Safety Internet Connection & Phone 411 Enjoy the Trip: Slow Down Photography Tips
20-22 TRAVEL IN STYLE Travel Gear & Tech Accessories Packing Tips Cool Kids Stuff Brands We Love
23-25 BEST RESOURCES Websites & Apps Get more information
2 | TWIST
COPYRIGHT NOTICE: The 2020 Twist Travel Handbook is published by ©2019-2020 Walking On Media LLC and distributed worldwide in conjunction with Life with a Baby (Lifewithababy.com) No part of this handbook may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. For editorial inquiries, please contact: editorial@twisttravelmag.com For advertising inquiries, please contact: sales@twisttravelmag.com Digital issue may contain affiliate links. WWW.TWISTTRAVELMAG.COM
YOUR TWIST GUIDES
Family Travel know it alls
KERYN MEANS
FAVORITES
Keryn lives just outside of Washington, D.C. with her husband and two boys plus puppy girl Storm, although you will rarely find her in town. She is usually popping around the country and across the globe for work or just checking out a tasty bite. walkingontravels.com
Fancy tea Funky Local Shops Craft Cocktails City Treks Beach Breaks
CLAIRE ZLOBIN
FAVORITES
Not all who wander are lost - and that's how Claire views her place in the world. Wandering and exploring this beautiful planet of ours and sharing the wonder of it all with others. When not traveling Claire manages the Life With A Baby parent network. lifewithababy.com
Powder snow Luxury hotels Hiking Fancy robes, Wine in hand
AMY WHITLEY
FAVORITES
Amy is a freelance writer, website publisher, magazine editor and novelist who makes her home in Southern Oregon. She and three boys love outdoor adventure, but are equally at home in a luxury resort (I mean, who would turn that down?). pitstopsforkids.com
Sleeping outdoors Wine Trails Powder days Urban adventure Farm to fork
KATJA GASKELL
FAVORITES
Katja has spent the last 12 years living abroad in Australia, India, and Mexico and has recently returned to London, U.K. with her husband and three kids. She loves to travel, both close to home and on the road less traveled and is always happy with a great meal and a good glass of wine. globettotting.com
Mountains Markets Quirky Hotels City Breaks Road less traveled
CLAUDIA LAROYE
FAVORITES
Claudia is a travel writer, editor, adventure lover, dog walker, and expert map reader living with her husband and two teen boys in Vancouver, Canada. She enjoys slower travel, delicious food, unique storytelling, and collecting tea towel travel souvenirs from around the world. thetravellingmom.ca
Cappuccino Boutique Hotels Road Tripping Mountains VanLife
ANDREA FELLMAN
FAVORITES
Andrea lives in Barcelona, Spain, with her husband, two kids and two dogs. Before living in Barcelona she lived in Costa Rica for three years. She is up for any type of adventure, the more daring the better. She would rather skip the tourist attractions and just get lost. thebarcelonaedit.com
Coffee Adventure Boutique Hotels Country Houses Just Wandering
TWIST | 3
THE WORLD IS SO BIG...
WHERE DO WE GO?
The first thing you have to ask yourself is, what type of experience do we want to have? Why do we want to get away? What do we want to see and learn? What calls to our family? Where you decide to go and what you choose to do when you get there depends on a lot of factors; how much time you have, the age of your children, the time of year, your budget and what you like to do! For some families, it’s all about the classic road trip while others don’t call it a vacay unless there’s a poolside cocktail involved. To help you narrow it down, here are some of our favorite family holiday styles.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS There are endless holiday options for families who simply love to be outside. Maybe your crew wants to explore the majestic beauty of America’s celebrated national parks or relax lakeside, camping under the stars. Maybe you're drawn to whitewater rafting in New Zealand, hiking in Canada, or rock climbing in Ireland. There are countless ways to spend time together in the great outdoors.
ADVENTURES IN HISTORY From big cities to small towns and villages to mind-boggling ruins, there’s history around every corner and you can easily turn a family holiday into one big history lesson (a fun one, of course!). We love teaching our kids when we travel – whether in our own country or abroad - and with the right preparation, trips to castles, monuments and archaeological wonders can be fun for all ages.
SUN & SAND Sometimes all you want is an ocean and a Sea Breeze – the beach-themed cocktail variety, that is! Beach holidays are the perfect way for everyone in the family to relax whether you stay close to home in a fancy meet-allyour needs hotel or head overseas for some tropical vibes.
4 | TWIST
PLACES YOU MAY LOVE Colorado Pacific Northwest Vermont Canada Australia/NZ Peru Washington DC Boston Philly London Rome Athens Mexico Hawaii Costa Rica Caribbean Florida Croatia
BIG CITY FAVORITES For a family vacation at 100 miles per hour, a big city is hard to beat. Big city breaks with kids may seem overwhelming, but with a little bit of planning, they can be a lot of fun. With absolutely everything on your doorstep – including history, culture, shopping, entertainment and more – big city holidays have something for every type of family.
ART & CULTURE If you’ve got a budding Warhol in the family then a holiday exploring some of the world’s best art scenes is a must. Start with the Old Masters in Europe before moving on to more contemporary art scenes such as the Technicolor street art in Berlin and the celebrated museum collections in New York.
WILDLIFE WONDERS Planning a holiday around wildlife spotting can be a great way to get kids excited about their trip as well as the world around them. This can be as simple as visiting a nearby aquarium or bird spotting at a local nature reserve. For something a little more adventurous, head to Alaska to spot bears, Mexico to watch Humpback whales, or Panama to cuddle a sloth.
MORE PLACES YOU MAY LOVE New York City San Francisco Chicago London Barcelona Florence Athens Berlin Paris California Alaska Colorado Mexico Costa Rica Sri Lanka
Our Favorite Family Destinations Amy
Choosing one favorite destination is like choosing only one label of Oregon Pinot Noir, but Iceland tops our list. International culture and epic outdoor adventure combine to offer the trip of a lifetime, customizable for any family.
Keryn
We love to go to Italy whenever we pop over to Europe. It is so easy with kids, especially babies and toddlers. Everyone in the country adores children, kids love the food, and there is enough gelato to bribe the kids to do just about anything I want to see and explore! And... cappuccino.
Claire
Katja
For me, Mexico is hard to beat. With a colorful culture, fascinating history, charming towns and some of the best beaches in the world, it has something for every type of family.
Andrea
One of our favorite family trips was visiting London! There is so much to see and do that no one gets bored. Our kids love the hustle and bustle of it all - the parks, the shopping, the history and of course the theatre!
Claudia The islands of Hawaii have it all – great
weather, gorgeous beaches, fascinating history and culture, tasty food, epic surfing, active adventures, even luxury shopping. The spirit of Aloha is everywhere, combined with a laid-back vibe that commands relaxation and encourages everyone to kick back and Hang Ten.
I might be biased but I think Canada is one of the most beautiful places in the world. One of the most memorable and surreal places to visit is Magdalen Islands. It's made of seven islands with carnivorous plants, huge rocks made of compressed sand, one the longest beaches in the world, and treeless islands. You have to see it to believe it. Best of all, the educational opportunities are endless!
TWIST | 5
DON'T CALL IT A DREAM CALL IT A PLAN
Going Abroad Your first time taking the kids abroad can be intimidating. You'll land in a very unfamiliar place and perhaps not know the language, other than a few phrases you tried to learn the day before you boarded the plane. But as a mom who took her babies abroad before the age of two, let me assure you there is nothing to be afraid of. You just need to be prepared, openminded, curious, calm and alert.
PREPARED Do your research, book your tickets for tours and any special activities before you arrive, and write down your itinerary, accommodations, car rental information, transfers and confirmation numbers. My husband and I use a Google spreadsheet for all this information that we can easily access and add things to. You could use a notebook or print things out instead: whatever keeps you organized. Prepare the kids for where they are going, what they will see, and what they might eat. They should know that not everyone speaks English and communication with others might be difficult in some places. If they are old enough, teach them at least some of the basics, such as hello, please and thank you.
6 | TWIST
OPEN-MINDED
CURIOUS
Sometimes when we are in other countries, it is hard to accept how others do things. People have different ways of living, customs and attitudes. It is important to remember that you are in another country and you need to respect local customs. Service around the world is not as fastpaced as in North America. If things get delayed or something does go wrong, it is not the end of the world. Try to make the most of an unfortunate situation, go get some ice cream and carry on. Traveling is never perfect, ever. Instead of harboring impossible expectations, expect to be blown away when something spectacular happens! Stay calm and be grateful for where you are.
If you want to venture abroad, chances are you have a little curiosity in you. That is a good thing! So, while on your travels, always be curious: talk to the cab drivers, ask people at the hotel for local suggestions, take tours to learn more about where you are. Wander smaller streets and go inside funky shops, try strange-looking food and keep your eyes open for anything that might lead you somewhere interesting. Remember why you wanted to go in the first place...you wanted to experience something new!
Check the weather forecast. Pack sensibly and light. Know about any local holidays that may affect the destination. Understand customary tipping. Know currency exchange and rate. Bring electrical converters. Make copies of passports. Alert your bank and credit card companies of your destination.
ALERT Wherever you travel, there will always be things to be mindful of and to look out for. In any tourist destination there are small petty crimes, like pickpocketing or a cab driver that takes you on a 20-minute detour. Read about crime and scams that occur in your destination before you go so you can be on the look out for anything that seems suspicious. Do not give anyone too much information about where you are staying, lock up valuables in the hotel safe, and never leave electronics out in the open. Handbags should always be zipped up, and don't carry large amounts of cash on you. Always be aware of your surroundings.
MAY WE SUGGEST A FEW COUNTRIES IN WHICH TO START... COSTA RICA
ITALY Pizza, pasta and gelato galore, locals who adore children, rich culture and history, beautiful countryside with vino for the grown-ups...it's no wonder many consider Italy to be the perfect first international destination for families. Plan a trip of 10-14 days to experience the major cities without rushing. What not to miss: the hustle and bustle of Rome, the sophistication of Florence, Tuscan hill towns, and the sun-kissed beach towns along the Mediterranean.
A tropical paradise filled with exciting adventures from the untouched coastal beaches to the enchanting jungles, Costa Rica is one of those places that offers both a tranquil and exhilarating environment. A country that is consistently rated one of the happiest places on earth, Costa Rica is extremely family-friendly and will engage everyone's senses no matter what age. Depending on your family's travel speed, there is a pace for everyone in Costa Rica.
IRELAND Considered a heritage trip for many families, Ireland embodies warm culture and scenic beauty. Starting in Dublin adds a flair of urban sophistication, followed by endless days exploring the iconic green countryside, villages and castles dotting Kilkenny, West Cork and County Kerry. Don't forget to sample the wilds of the Wicklow Mountains before a return to the city.
TWIST | 7
FRANCE
Paris is usually at the top of every jetsetter's list, but it should be on your family's list too. But don't just stay in the capital; Provence, Normandy, the Champagne trail west through the country, which also dives into WWI history, are equally fascinating and showcase the diversity of accomodations, people, food, and sights you can see in a short amount of time. It's a lot easier to drive in France than in other European countries as well, so get in your rental and start exploring.
MEXICO Most families know that Mexico is great for beaches but there is so much more to discover here than simply sun and sand. From its cosmopolitan capital to colorful colonial towns, Mexico is rich in history and culture. There are wildlife opportunities galore, plenty of adventure activities and even booming wine regions. It also happens to have amazing weather and some of the best food in the world!
JAPAN Not every parent is ready to trek through the rice fields of Vietnam, but you can walk the streets of Kyoto with kids easily. Check out Edo-period temples and shrines, and eat your body weight in the most beautiful French pastries, sushi, Soba noodles and Kobe beef imaginable. Japanese residents revere families and will welcome you and your children. Just don't be surprised if they politely ask to take a photo with you too.
8 | TWIST
Trip Inspiration, Research & Resources Why do you want to travel? What inspires you to go to the places you go? What type of trip do you envision having? This may sound crazy, but imagining your trip and creating a vision for your holiday is a great way to make sure that you plan and execute your trip just how you want it. Everyone may go to the same place, and sure we may see some of the same things, but we all see it differently. You also need to make sure that you see what YOU want to see and experience your own adventure, not someone else's. So what's the secret? For me, it's visual inspiration. Here are some imaginative ideas on how you can develop a plan by gathering information.
TRAVEL websites we LOVE • 2 Travel Dads A Lady in London Bon Traveler Camels & Chocolate Culture Trip
SOCIAL MEDIA
FathomAway
Love it or hate it, one of the best things to come out of social media is all the travel sharing (or oversharing) specifically on Instagram and Pinterest, but also on Twitter and in Facebook groups. Ways to use social media to your advantage: Create a Pinterest board of your destination Search #hashtags on Twitter to find articles on your destination Search #hashtags on Instagram Follow locals in your destination on Instagram (see what hashtags they are using) Search for food or walking city tour companies in your destination - follow them and see what they are posting Google search for local blogs in your destination Read the local websites in your destination
PRO TIP: My kids can earn spending money by creating a small report on the city or destination we are going to. They have to tell me a little history, things to do, typical food and list a few things they would like to do or see.
Globetotting Hand Luggage Only Kids are a Trip La Jolla Mom Pit Stops for Kids New York Times Travel The Barefoot Nomad The Travelling Mom Vagabond3 Walking On Travels Wanderlust Crew We3Travel World of Wanderlust
TRAVELERS Join the Twist Travelers Facebook group! We are growing a travel-savvy community where women are sharing recommendations and resources! The group is for seeking advice and finding locals that live in the destinations where you are traveling. From expat women and travel writers who are traveling all the time, to women who enjoy one or two great vacations a year, this is a community that welcomes every traveler. We also talk about travel news, trends, food, style, art, culture and wellness. Check it out!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/twisttravelers/
TWIST | 9
Seek & Ye Shall Find! START PINNING
FIND HASHTAGS
FOLLOW A LOCAL
SAMPLE: ITALY LOCAL BLOGS, WEBSITES & TOUR COMPANIES
MyCornerof Italy.com TheRomanFoodie.com GirlinFlorence.com
10 | TWIST
LivItaly.com AnAmericaninRome.com WalksOfItaly.com
TravelItalianStyle.com MelindaGallo.com LaVitaRoma.com
Trip Planning 101 Think About Timing When planning your family adventure you want to be mindful of the time of year, weather, and any special holidays that might affect your travel plans, and budget for that matter. Going to Rome over Easter / Holy week may be extremely crowded and hotel prices will be high. Take advantage of the low-season pricing during rainy season in Costa Rica, however, and be prepared for some rain in return for saving dollars. • TIP: Consult our Twist Travel Calendar
Be Realistic on Budget Just because your neighbors spent a mint on their luxury Hawaiian vacation doesn't mean you can't do it for less and still have an excellent time. There is nothing is worse than counting up the dollars while trying to enjoy yourself on vacation. You can save money by skipping expensive restaurants and going easy on buying souvenirs; you're not there for the things, you're there for the experience. Take advantage of package deals, flight sales, city passes, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Hunt and Gather Start a Google doc or fill a Pinterest board with all the activities and main attractions you want to see and do. Fill it up with as many items as you want and then cut it down. Yes, edit the list down to the top 8-10 priorities. You want to allow some wiggle room and time to just relax. GET THE KIDS INVOLVED. Chances are, your kids know how to find information on the internet more efficiently than you. Make them create a list of all the things they want to see and do, and the food they want to try. Make them earn this trip as much as you have.
Be Type A - Build An Itinerary Whether it's in an Excel spreadsheet, calendar, notebook or a whiteboard - make columns for your days and start to fill in your bookings for tours, activities, shows and experiences. This will help ensure you don't double book or overschedule yourself. Keep your confirmed bookings and all other important flight and hotel information here as well. Do not forget to make dinner reservations; popular places get booked and you don't want to be eating at the mediocre tourist traps.
S.O.S. - Let someone else help! Outsource, people. There are still travel agents and vacation planners for a reason. Let someone else help you create the Italian trip of your dreams. Especially if planning travel stresses you out and causes anxiety. This will cost a bit more, but it will be worth it!
YOUR TO-DO LIST 6 MONTHS Find and book airfares Book accommodations Check passport expiry dates, visa requirements and gather any other necessary travel documents Book popular tours, shows and attractions
4 MONTHS Research things to do & see Read up on culture, history and customs Find best local neighborhoods & areas Start to plan out your itinerary
2 MONTHS Book walking tours, museum tickets and activities Rent car if needed / book transfers Finalize Itinerary
30 DAYS Shop for any special clothing Order any tech accessories or convertors Book dinner reservations
2 WEEKS Call bank and credit cards to inform them of travel Confirm any special transportation Get excited!
TWIST | 11
Hotels & Vacation Rentals With a family of five, three of whom are active teens, we're big fans of vacation rentals and condos while on family trips. More affordable than booking multiple hotel rooms, vacation homes have the added benefit of additional space to spread out and full kitchens, to save money on meals.
5. Parking space: Many families utilize vacation homes to host family and friends for get-togethers or reunions. If multiple cars will be arriving at your destination, make sure enough parking is available. Most rentals have policies in effect that limit the number of vehicles families can bring.
Whether you're looking for a luxury vacation rental or a budget apartment, here's what to look for while perusing all those listings.
6. Positive reviews: Guest reviews are notoriously subjective, but one aspect you can count on: feedback on customer service. I never book a property with negative reviews about the owners or rental agency neglecting to return calls, fix issues or email promptly.
1. Location, location, location: So much is subjective when accessing vacation rental amenities, but everyone can agree that time is money, and when you spend all your time commuting between your vacation home and the sights you want to see, no bueno. 2. Washer and dryer: Staying in one place for more than a few days? Um, you want a washer and dryer in your unit. This goes double on ski trips, when you have wet gloves and socks to dry every night. 3. An actual kitchen: Buyer beware...when some listings say 'kitchen', they actually mean 'kitchenette'. Look at the fine print (or inquire) to know which you're getting, and plan accordingly. It's no fun to show up at your rental with a take-and-bake pizza at 9 pm to find you don't have access to an oven. 4. Bedrooms vs. couches: When your vacation home says it sleeps six, does that mean it has beds for six, bedrooms for six, or enough couch space for six? Do your research so you know what to expect.
7. Flexible cancellation policies: Ideally, you should be able to cancel and get a full refund at least two weeks prior to your trip. If your rental lacks a generous cancellation policy, consider investing in travel insurance.
Before you go!
Stay Connected using your phone
Everyone wants to stay connected these days, but how do you do it? What is the most economical way for YOU to stay connected to your loved ones back home and while you are traveling together? 1. WI-FI: The cheapest option is to connect to Wi-Fi and connect to friends and family via email, Skype, WhatsApp (a texting app) or iMessage. You can post photos on Instagram and Facebook, as well as direct message friends. The limitation comes when you can't find a Wi-Fi network to connect to. 2. Local SIM card: You can buy a local SIM card through a service before you leave, or for a less expensive option, buy a SIM card after you arrive. Most major cell phone providers sell you a limited plan for travel. Be ready to present your passport in order to get one though. 3. Roaming Fees: Many cell phone carriers will let you use your phone abroad. Call your provider BEFORE your flight to make sure you have access to those plans, and to make sure they are actually cheaper, available in your destination, and won't rack up huge data fees. Use WI-Fi whenever possible, but at least you will have a phone number in a pinch. Want to know more? Click here.
12 | TWIST
TRAVEL CALENDAR January Three Kings Day, Spain Junkanoo Festival, Bahamas Carnaval de Blancos y Negros, Pasto, Colombia Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, China International Snow Sculpture Championship, CO,USA St. Paul Winter Carnival, USA
April Kings Day, The Netherlands Songkran (New Year), Thailand Coachella, California, USA Tulip field bloom, The Netherlands Semana Santa, Guatemala Jazz Festival, New Orleans, USA Southland Seafood Festival, New Zealand
July Canada Day Celebrations, Canada Il Palio, Siena, Italy Fourth of July celebrations, USA Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, Montreal, Canada Panorama Music Festival, Randall’s Island Park, New York, USA Gilroy Garlic Festival, California, USA
October Day of the Dead Festival, Mexico MassKara Festival, "Festival of Smiles", The Philippines Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico Guinness Cork Jazz Fest, Ireland Halloween, USA and Canada
February Quebec Winter Carnival, Canada Rio Carnival, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Imagine Children’s Festival, London Lantern Festival, Taiwan Mardi Gras, southern USA Carnevale, Venice Italy Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), France
May Stars of the White Nights, Russia Cannes Film Festival, France Frieze Art Fair, New York, USA The Vienna Festival, Austria Cinco de Mayo, Mexico & USA Grand Festival of Spring, Japan Kings Day in Amsterdam, Netherlands
August Just So Festival, UK Bat Fest, Austin, Texas, USA Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Scotland Osheaga Music and Arts Festival, Montreal, Canada National Lentil Festival, Pullman, WA, USA La Tomatina Festival, Bunol, Spain Gracía Neighborhood Festival, Barcelona, Spain
November Pushkar Camel Fair, Rajasthan, India Diwali, India Melbourne Cup, Australia Düsseldorf Karneval, Germany Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, Niagara Falls, Canada JazzFest Berlin, Berlin, Germany Shanghai Art Fair, Shanghai, China
March Cherry Blossom Festival, Japan and USA - runs into April Holi Festival, India St. Patrick's Day, Ireland and USA Lantern Festival, Taiwan Starkbierzeit, Germany Falles Festival, Spain Grape Harvest Festival, Argentina
June Provins Medieval Festival, France Bonnaroo, Tennessee, USA The Midnight Sun Film Festival, Finland Art Basel, Switzerland Duanwu Dragon Boat Festival, Hong Kong Chicago Blues Festival, USA
September Oktoberfest, Germany Braemar Gathering, Scotland Grape Throwing Festival, Mallorca, Spain Adirondack Balloon Fest, NY, USA Galaway Oyster Festival, Ireland Circleville Pumpkin Show, Ohio, USA Mexican Armada Parade / Independence Day, Mexico
December Christmas / St. Nicolas Day Hannukuh Kwanza Boxing Day European Christmas Markets New Years Eve Celebrations Fur Rendezvous, Anchorage, AK Winter Carnival, Steamboat Springs, USA
TWIST | 13
Family Travel Planners CIAO BAMBINO
ALL OVER THE MAP
MOMABOARD
Ciao Bambino is a comprehensive family travel resource that pairs award-winning editorial content with a full, Virtuoso-affiliated family vacation planning service. Their experienced team of parents, who have traveled the world with children in tow, provide invaluable advice on where to go, what to do, where to stay, and what’s new and notable in top destinations with kids.
All Over the Map travel designers create custom itineraries for families. We start the planning process with an interview and questionnaire to get an idea of what each family member is hoping to get out of the trip. We will listen to your unique needs and desires, research the destination and come up with an itinerary that is as unique as you are.
MomAboard's custom itineraries are built from scratch to suit each family's needs, budgets and interests. And the best part? We're not travel agents, we're moms, and we're commission-free. So you can be sure your recommendations are objective, genuine and momloved. We currently offer service in over 60 cities around the world and counting.
WE 3 TRAVEL
TRACKS & TRAILS
Tamara from We3Travel uses her skills as a mom, traveler, travel agent and ultimate trip planner to create custom itineraries and offer family vacation consulting. She specializes in Europe, North America, and the Caribbean, with in-depth expertise in Iceland, Italy, Spain, France, and England. Tamara loves researching and discovering those special experiences that create lifelong family memories, whether you travel with one kid or multi-gen.
Tracks & Trails is a unique tour operator offering self-drive RV trips (small RVs) in western National Parks, taking care of all the trip planning and reservations. Basically, they combine their extensive knowledge of the west with your personal desires to create a driving adventure that knocks your socks off. They take care of all the details including: RV rental, hotel reservations, campground reservations, maps and driving directions and fun activities!
IRELAND FAMILY VACATIONS
FAMILY TRAVEL TOURS
14 | TWIST
Jody Halsted is the author and publisher of Ireland Family Vacations (.com), the only online resource dedicated to family travel in Ireland. With nearly 15 years of Ireland travel, Jody knows Ireland's secret spots as well as how to beat the tourist traffic at popular attractions. Jody also offers Ireland vacation coaching; one-on-one vacation planning designed specifically to the family’s interests, dreams, and budget. In 2019, Jody also starting hosting tours to Ireland for moms who want to run off for a few days without their kids.
O.A.R.S.
VANTAGE DELUXE
AUSTIN ADVENTURES
What to do if your crew yearns for an exciting outdoor adventure but you're not entirely sure you know how to set up a tent, let alone cook outdoors? Or you know how, but would rather eat dirt than plan meals in the backcountry for your family? Enter O.AR.S., a leading curator of multi-day river rafting trips for families and champion for river conservation efforts. We've been on four O.A.R.S. trips and counting.
For families seeking a truly luxurious vacation they don't have to plan, Vantage Deluxe World Travel takes care of everything, from on-ground transportation to tour guides to hotel reservations. We love that Vantage hires only the best local experts and guides and are known for their welcoming, family-friendly focus. Vantage can be a great bet in more difficult destinations to navigate on one's own, such as trips to parts of Africa and South America.
This family-owned and operated boutique international adventure travel outfitter allows families to join curated group trips or customize their own. Their itineraries are geared with kids in mind and their guides are locals who know how to work with families. We love their focus on the outdoors; take one of their national park trips and you'll see parks like Yellowstone in a whole new way! Don't worry, they go abroad too.
poolside all day
MOM JUST WANTS A VACAY! Planning your relaxing vacay When was the last time you came back from a vacation really, truly refreshed? A holiday where you didn't have to plan, organize, schedule, delegate or set the alarm; a break where you could just simply relax and, you know, read a book? As much as we love to explore new cities, discover different cultures and dive headlong into another adventure, sometimes holidays can feel like work! Sometimes, we just want a vacation where the only things to worry about are whether you should pick a sun lounger by the pool or the beach, and what kind of cocktail to order next. Sound good? Here's where we like to go for an all-inclusive vacay.
APPROVED ALL -INCLUSIVES We don't like standing in line and hanging out with the hordes, but we understand you sometimes just need to veg. Here's where WE let someone else just take care of us and sit for a bit.
AZUL BEACH HOTEL, RIVIERA MAYA MEXICO If sprawling mega resorts leave you longing for a more intimate experience, try the boutique all-inclusive model. Azul Beach Hotel features fewer than 150 suites and the beautifully-manicured property is entirely walkable. The only vacation decisions families will have to make: which 'beach bed' to reserve daily, which gourmet sit-down restaurant to step into (no reservations required) and which excursions along the stunning Caribbean coastline to book.
UNCRUISE, DESTINATIONS WORLDWIDE Sailing on mega-ships with buffets, casinos, waterslides and crowds aren't the only way to experience an allinclusive cruise. Book with Uncruise to enjoy the antithesis of standard cruise offerings. No need to book a single excursion or meal, and forget about drink packages... it will all be perfectly curated for you on Uncruise. Best of all, they have select family sailings!
WESTIN PLAYA CONCHAL, COSTA RICA The Westin sits directly on one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, Playa Conchal, which translates to shell beach, because a large portion of the sand on this beach is made up of tiny shells. The large, modern rooms are in bungalow-style buildings with only eight rooms to a building. They are surrounded by lush gardens, which makes it feel more authentic and less like a typical allinclusive resort.
JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU RESORT, FIJI As luxury family getaways go, the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji is on another level of family-friendly pampering. A nanny for every wee one, an awardwinning Bula kids activity club, luxury bure acommodations, and all-inclusive gourmet food are just a few reasons why. Founded by the son of French diver and explorer Jacques Cousteau, the Resort prides itself on its Bula spirit, family-friendliness, and the conservation of tropical life on land and sea.
TWIST | 14
Best Websites, Services & Apps Skyscanner Kayak Hopper
Our top picks for searching and booking the best flights deals! Hopper is an app that will text you when the best price is available for your destination.
HipMunk Travel Zoo Kiwi
Travel Deal sites that do all the work for you and make it easy to book packages. Kiwi also shows you on a map the cheapest flights near you.
TripIt FlightView
Tripit for keeping track of your flights and helping you stay organized. Flightview will keep tabs on arrivals, departures and flight delays.
Intrepid Travel Context Travel
Large tour companies that take care of all the planning for you. Book tours and engaging trips anywhere in the world and save time and sanity!
CityPASS
CityPASS bundles all the admissions for the best attractions in cities so you can save money and not worry about booking things individually.
With Locals Walking Tours
Walk with a local and let them guide you through the city that they know best. Select the guide that meets your personality.
Send My bags
Got extra luggage? Send it ahead with Send My Bag; perfect for that must-have carpet you bought in a Moroccan souk.
We all know vacation rental sites like Airbnb and HomeAway but we love companies that really focus on families. Take a look at these companies that go the extra mile curating stylish homes with hotel standards for families on the move.
Kid & Co The posh place to stay for parents traveling with kids in tow. Each rental is guaranteed family friendly, which includes all the necessary amenities for babies to tweens.
Sweet Inn The European company that offers stylish rentals with hotel amenities. They curate and style each apartment before listing it. Quality beds and bedding are of great importance.
Boutique Homes
Lola
The personal concierge in your pocket! Lola will assist you in booking hotels, restaurants, and activities in your destination.
Higher end homes for those looking for unique stays that match their style and aesthetic. Design is important but so is comfort.
Tiqets
The easiest way to book tickets for attractions. Digitally delivered to your phone!
The Plum Guide
Findery
Find cool spots by searching the notes left by other travelers and leave your own notes as you travel.
The latest in luxury city rentals that undergo a rigorous test in standards. Launched in London with more cities to come.
Detour
LIFIE
The coolest audio tour guides when you want them most. Simply listen to what interests you and learn more on the go! After your trip don't let the memories fade, LIFIE edits all your footage and creates a quality video to share with friends and family.
Glamping Hub For the more adventurous families looking for truly one of a kind places to rest their heads! Glamping hub specializes in cabins, campers, tree houses and tents!
TWIST | 23
s p i T o Phot Photos are what help us remember our vacations, and also how we show them off to our friends and family back home. Pictures can also be stressful and chaotic moments when we are trying to capture those perfect memories of our kids, but really, they shouldn't be. It's time to take the pressure off, stop striving for perfect and just let the magic happen on your vacation.
RELAX Your pictures won't be perfect and they do not have to be perfect. That is the beauty of having kids. They bring chaos into our lives. Embrace the chaos find the magical photo moments. Thanks to digital, we can take a bazillion photos. Snap away on your phone or with your big camera. It's costing you nothing but time.
STOP SAYING CHEESE Saying 'Cheese' is so retro. We love our friend Rob's suggestion from 2travelDads.com: have your kids say 'Hey!!' which create some fabulous smiles and super silly moments. Asking your kids to say 'surprise' or 'O' can also create some really fun looks. We have friends in England who love to have their kids yell 'sausages'. It brings on a fit of smiles and giggles, which is really what we are going for here, right?
WATCH THE LIGHT Nothing is worse than the perfect moment and super dark lighting. Do not photograph people with the sun behind them. Unless you know what you are doing, this will never end well for you. If it's lunch time, photograph people in the shade if you can, and don't fuss with the kids to take their sunglasses off. They will be squinting anyway!
CLOTHING MATTERS As much as we all want to think we look fabulous in everything we wear (which you do), if you want your family photos to really pop, be mindful of the colors you wear in your destination. If you are going to Ireland, don't put the entire family in green. You will blend into the background. Wear bright vibrant colors so you stand out. Wear a white t-shirt when all else fails. This does not mean you all have to match. In fact, just don't do it. Matching family portraits went out in the late '90s. Let's leave them there.
FLYTOGRAPHER One of our favorite vacation services is Flytographer. Book a professional photo shoot in hundreds of destinations across the globe and you can have gorgeous photos in your destination of your family, and simply relax the rest of your vacation. Simply budget the expense into your vacation planning and you are done. http://flytographer.com
TWIST | 17
! n w o D Slow It was an unseasonably warm winter afternoon in Paris, and we had arrived to the Champ de Mars with time to kill before our scheduled tickets for the Eiffel Tower. To my mind, this meant we could squeeze in a quick visit to nearby Les Invalides, but to our kids, it meant they could jump into a pick-up game of soccer in progress on the expanse of lawn beneath the tower. Watching them navigate the field as the sun set, playing a universally-loved game with French peers, my kids taught me something that day: slow down. Seize the moment. Don't just visit new countries...truly live in them, if only for a few days. If your default travel setting is like mine, undeniably somewhere between 'go, go, go' and 'where's the fire', I assure you it is possible to find a balance between cramming everything in and lazing around. Here's some inspiration to get you in the 'no need to hurry' mode:
GET UP EARLY Okay, this tip is more of a workaround, but if you want to make sure your family doesn't miss out on that awesome museum tour or excursion while also creating the illusion of relaxation, get up early! You'll check off the must-dos before lunch, allowing for much needed downtime later.
Does everyone in the tiny village you're visiting go to Mass on Sunday? Go! Then follow the locals' lead afterward: maybe they all enjoy a meal at local restaurants...follow suit! Is there a festival in town? Attend and see where it leads.
SIT & RELAX
BRING PROPS
With older children and teens, plan one sit-down meal per day, during which you expect to linger. If nothing else, everyone will be happy to be sitting after a day on their feet. If you have younger kids and the idea of an extended restaurant visit leaves you cold, plan a picnic and find a local park.
Sometimes, you need gear that facilitates slowing down. For our hyper-active family, this means traveling with a soccer ball for impromptu games. For others, it may manifest itself in a deck of cards or a good book tucked into your purse.
SCHEDULE 'DOWN DAYS' Any trip of longer than five days needs a 'down day' built-in. Plan to spend it by a pool, on a beach, or in the hotel spa, with the offspring in the kids' club. Don't feel guilty about this.
18 | TWIST
GO TO LOCAL EVENTS
DON'T PACK THE AGENDA This one's hard for me, but I've learned not to fill every hour of every day, because if I do, I'll feel compelled to see every attraction and make every reservation. Leave empty space and let your travel day and your family lead you.
SECRET TIPS FOR
The Best Trips REMEMBER YOUR HEALTH
DIVIDE AND CONQUER
Between long flights and little sleep, travel wears a person down. Take care of yourself and your family by staying hydrated, keeping to a sleep schedule and getting regular exercise. Opt for farmer's market fare instead of fast food and drink tons of water. We always start a regime of immune-boosting vitamins pre-travel and I don't apologize for taking time to work out daily. - Amy
The best thing we have ever done is to split up and go our separate ways! There is no reason why you have to do everything together all the time. This allows for each parent to spend some quality time with each child. This also keeps sibling fighting to a minimum. It doesn't have to be the whole day; maybe just an afternoon. We've even sat at separate tables at lunch before! - Andrea
SLOW DOWN & SPLIT THE DAY
SEEK OUT ICE CREAM SHOPS & TOY STORES
One thing that I quickly learned when traveling with children is that you can’t move at the same speed you used to. Try and cram too much in and everyone will have a terrible time. My general rule of thumb is sightsee in the morning and go poolside for the afternoon. That way, both parents and kids are happy! - Katja
Find the best ice cream shop in the city, Usually, where there is great ice cream there are other interesting things around that area. Same is true for kids' boutiques and toy stores. If you are in a crunch and need to fill time, find a kids' store, Chances are, that kids store is in a specific area for a reason! - Andrea
"A gelato a day keeps the tantrums away." TAKE A MINI-MOMCATION OR DADCATION
WAKE UP EARLY
All too often we as parents are on the go taking care of our kids while on vacation. When we get back from a trip, we can be more exhausted than when we left. Schedule in some 'me time'. Book a massage, schedule an afternoon of golf, or some time away from the family just shopping or sitting at the adults-only pool. Anything that gets you a few hours of YOU time to rest and recharge. You need to take care of you. - Keryn
Discovering new spaces and places is at once exciting and exhausting. To ensure trip health and happiness, plan down days in the travel schedule. Get up early (at least once for a good weather sunrise), and don’t overschedule activities. Incentivize good behavior and boost energy with a gelato, churro or lolly a day to keep the tantrums away. And guess what? This works just as well for adults as for kids! - Claudia
TWIST | 19
On the Ground Safety 101: Practical tips for an uncertain world While fear should never keep families at home, taking practical measures to stay safe and secure in a foreign country (as well as in your home state!) is a no-brainer.
AT YOUR DESTINATION, there are a few additional things you can do to ensure you fully enjoy your vacation and have nothing but great memories:
BEFORE ANY TRIP ABROAD, do the following:
1. Always have a family plan. Know where in each city or town you'll meet in case of an unexpected separation. Make this plan with your traveling partner even if you have young children who will be with a parent at all times.
1. Make copies of each family member's passport and any credit cards you'll be bringing. Be sure to photocopy each side! Keep physical copies in a bag or suitcase separate from your actual passports and keep a second digital copy of everything on at least one phone. 2. Register pre-trip with STEP. This free program will keep you alerted to any threats in areas to which you'll be traveling and makes it easier to find assistance should you need it. 3. Check travel advisories through the Department of State, or your country's government travel advisory. 4. Store the addresses and phone numbers for the embassies of each country you plan to visit in your phone in your contacts or a note. 5. Ask a travel doctor about any required or recommended vaccinations for the countries you will be visiting, and get the shots if required. Consider altitude sickness medication if you'll be traveling at high elevation, as well as motion sickness medications.
16 | TWIST
2. Keep your eyes open and be aware of your surroundings. It's easy to get distracted by maps, your phone, or new sights, but use practical sense, just as you would at home. 3. Consider avoiding large crowds during politicalized events such as rallies or protests. 4. Remain respectful of local customs and dress codes, particularly in places of worship. Note that in some countries, any public displays of affection are frowned upon, even holding hands with your spouse. 5. Make sure your children know your cell phone numbers (especially if you're not using the phone you use at home). 6. Dress in bright colors so you can locate each other quickly on a beach or in a crowded square.
And away we go.... TRAVEL IN STYLE Invest in quality pieces that you can take on trips for years - trench coats, leather jackets and leather crossbody bags. Buy stylish tennis shoes, loafers and flats that can kick a neutral outfit up a notch. Do not wear new shoes. Break in shoes before you go on a trip. When you find a brand of t-shirt you love, buy a few colors. When you find a brand of jeans you love, buy three pairs in different colors/washes. Invest in a quality set of luggage. Tote bags for the plane are essential; you can put your handbags inside along with scarf, magazines, snacks and water. Accessories can make any travel outfit a bit more fun; earrings, necklaces, a scarf or even a hat. Don't be afraid to pack some color. Take advantage of seasonal sales to stock up on travel basics.
A few of our favorite brands to SHOP MADEWELL for clothing and handbags VINCE BLAIR for slip-on sneakers STELLA DOT for accessories and travel bags TUMI and AWAY for luggage ANTHROPOLOGIE for clothing AVARCAS USA for comfortable slip-on travel sandals HOBO for the ultimate travel wallets ZARA for on-trend pieces and clothing UNIQLO for season travel basics SOLE SOCIETY for shoes and handbags ATHLETA for athletic and outerwear wear J CREW for timeless clothing and coats MAGGY LONDON for cocktail dresses FREE PEOPLE for boho chic TORY BURCH for handbags, shoes and accessories
20 | TWIST
1 0 1 g n i k Pac Packing is not that difficult, people. If you hate packing , it's because you are unprepared. To be prepared you need to have items that you like to wear and make you feel good. If you do not have clothes that fit nicely or make you feel good then you need to go shopping and get some. First, check the weather forecast!
This might seem obvious, but even the savviest of travelers sometimes forget to check the weather just before heading out. Temperatures can drop or change, so be sure to be prepared if you need more layers or less, an umbrella or mittens! Pick a color scheme
This does not mean you can only wear one color. It simply means that you should pack things that can be easily worn together. This way you can easily mix and match and create several outfits. This will also help narrow down your shoe choices! Stick to brown and tans or black and greys. Lay out your clothes in outfits
Leave space for things you may buy!
Lay your pants on the bed and then place two shirts for each on top of them. Four pairs of pants + eight shirts = technically 32 outfits (but realistically probably more like 12- 16). Mix and match as you go with accessories and no one will know you are wearing something twice.
Don't cram so much in that you have no room to bring a few things back. Buying a few special things on a trip is part of the fun! You can also pack an extra foldable / duffle bag just in case and if you have to check your carry-on for your bag of loot, so be it!
Do not pack things you never wear at home
Use cosmetic bags for tech accessories
If you never wear those pants at home and in your real life, what makes you think you are going to like wearing them on the road? Exception; if you are going somewhere super fancy then now is the time to pack those sparkly tops and high heels!
We all have so many cosmetic bags, designate one for tech accessories, chargers and cords. Keeping things organized is half the packing battle...the more organized the better. Plastic bags for dirty laundry & shoes
Always bring a jacket or sweater
Yes, even in the tropics. Always have at least a light sweater for chilly nights or when the frigid air conditioning is blowing right on top of you. That's the worst and will just make you cranky!
Sure you can buy a fancy cotton laundry bag with your initials monogrammed, or a plastic shopping bag will do. Keep dirty items separate from clean. Give one to each of your kids, too! Emergency overnight kit
Pack jewlery in a clutch or extra handbag
The best place to put accessories is in another smaller handbag or clutch. This keeps jewelry together in a safe pace and saves a little space!
For those that fear lost luggage. Pack an emergency overnight kit in your carry-on with one outfit, underwear, toothbrush, toothpaste, and extra snacks. Hopefully, you'll get your bag back within 24 hours.
TWIST | 21
Great kids stuff
Getting the kids excited for a trip and gearing them up is just the first battle of family travel. Cabana Life Our top pick for swimsuits for the whole family! Their designs are not only stylish but ultra safe - 50+ UV protected. They literally have your entire family covered; everything from swimsuits, rash guards, cool trunks, infant onesies, cover ups, tunics and more! Cabanalife.com
The Kids Carry On by American Tourister The American Tourister suitcases are chic, compact and sturdy. They created one perfectly sized for your mini jet setter. Amazon.com
Butler Boots
Babyzen YOYO Stroller The Yoyo Stroller is the incredible compact stroller that folds up small enough to fit in the overhead bin! Its's also extremely lightweight and comes with a strap for easy carrying. Babyzen.com
Puro Kids Headsets
The boot that slips on right over your kid's shoe! Good for all weather conditions, Butler boots are lightweight, 100 percent waterproof, and super easy to clean. Made in the USA, non‑toxic and recyclable. We think these are genius. thebutlerbrand.com
Over the ear Bluetooth wireless headsets for kids that actually look cool. purosound.com
HDE iPad Case Shock proof ipad case for kids with handle that becomes a stand. Amazon.com
Nuu Muu The perfect traveling dress for active girls! A dress does not have to be delicate. These dresses are made for the girls who likes to move. Stain, wrinkle and rip resistant! nuu-muu.com
Tava Adventures Kids Travel Guides The guides come packaged in passport-sized wallets and hold cards that contain key information about the city as well as activities. They are a wonderful way to engage kids both pre-trip and while you’re on the go. tavadventures.com
22 | TWIST
HELPING FAMILIES DESIGN A TRAVEL INSPIRED LIFE We are big believers in the value of a well-traveled life, yet after taking a look around, we couldn’t seem to find a family travel magazine that appealed to us. We created Twist to satisfy our need for a publication that rises above the online clutter of tutorials, listicles and sound bites. We wanted a magazine that reminded us why we travel, not just where to travel, that spoke to our sense of adventure, that represented our collective passions. Twist Travel Magazine is all about designing a travelinspired life. This is a travel magazine to help you get where you want to go, in a realistic and fun way! But we go beyond travel: we’re infusing our magazine with additional lifestyle-related content, because as much as we LOVE to travel, there’s this thing called LIFE that happens in-between packing and unpacking
So welcome to something different, something unexpected, something that puts family travel on its edge and gives it a spin. Welcome to Twist.
LIMITED TIME: FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE
TWISTTRAVELMAG.COM/SHOP 24 | TWIST
"Adventures start when plans end" -- UNKNOWN