Twist Travel Magazine Issue 006

ISSUE 006

ESCAPE TO FIJI

URBAN NATIONAL PARKS CAMPING 101 MAGIC FOUND IN KAUAI

6 WEEKS IN ASIA

HAVE BABY, WILL TRAVEL

editors' note Summer brings with it a lot of nostalgia. As a child, you might have spent your summer days away at summer camp, taking long road trips with the family, or riding bikes with your friends until the street lights came on and pitching a tent in your own backyard to sleep under the stars.

No matter what your summer vacation looked like, chances are you can easily recall how you spent some of those long days and how they left an invaluable impression.

This is why as parents, we tend to want to make sure that our children have summer vacation memories they will carry with them forever. We start to realize that time moves quickly. Once a child starts school, there are only thirteen summer vacations before they leave the nest and start making their own way in the world.

So it's not just about where you go, but who you spend your time with and how you make the most of the simple things that summer provides. Cherish every single s'more roasted around that campfire, celebrate every fish caught on Grampa's boat and let the kids run naked through the sprinkler!

Our wish for you this summer: relax, have fun and embrace all that summer chaos before the years slip away.

ANDREA FELLMAN AND KERYN MEANS EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

Contributors

Allison Waken

Amie O'Shaughnessy

Amy Dittmer

Amy Whitley

allfortheboys.com IG @allfortheboys

ciaobambino.com IG @ciaobambinotravel

amylaurenfloraldesign.com IG @amylaurenfloraldesign

pitstopsforkids.com IG @amywhitleytravels

Brianne Manz

Caroline Makepeace

Carrie Beth Posener

 strollerinthecity.com IG @strollerinthecity

ytravelblog.com IG @ytravelblog

themagnoliamamas.com IG @themagnoliamamas

Claudia Laroye

Erin Kirkland

Ethan Gelber

Genevieve Buckmiller

thetravellingmom.ca IG @thetravellingmom

akonthego.com IG @akonthego

thetravelword.com

walkingontravels.com IG @walkingontravels

Jen Giambalvo

Kate Spiller

Katja Gaskell

Katie Bodell

themagnoliamamas.com IG @themagnoliamamas

wildtalesof.com IG @katespiller

globetotting.com IG @globetotting

Trekaroo.com IG @trekaroo

Chris 'Chez' Chesak

Issue No. 6

Leslie Harvey

Melisa Fluhr

tripswithtykes.com IG @tripswithtykes

projectnursery.com IG @projectnursery

STORY BEHIND THE COVER: We had gone on a long stroll to the Hollywood Beach boardwalk that morning.

I'd told Charlotte not to wear her new slides since it would be a long walk. Naturally, halfway into the walk she had a blister (Mommy always knows best). We had to go to a gift shop to buy her bandaids and a pair of flip flops. Later that afternoon when we headed down to the beach, her blister was burning in the ocean water and she was unable to swim with the rest of the family.

She hopped into a lounge chair, and I couldn't help but snap a photo of my pouting little girl. - Melissa

Melissa Sanchez

Mira Poling Anselmi

savvyinsanfrancisco.co/ IG @ SavvyinSanFran

mirastories.com IG @mirastories

Publishers: Keryn Means and Andrea Fellman Editors-in-Chief: Keryn Means and Andrea Fellman Managing Editor: Amy Whitley Contributing Editors: Claudia Laroye and Katja Gaskell Editorial Assistant: Emily Martin and Anna Julien Designer: Keryn Means Cover Photo: Melissa Sanchez/ Savvyinsanfrancisco.co For editorial inquiries, please contact: editorial@twisttravelmag.com Sales Offices: Washington, D.C., New York

Paige Connor Totaro

Rob Taylor

alloverthemap.net IG @alloverthemap

2traveldads.com IG @2traveldads

and Barcelona, Spain For advertising inquiries, please contact: sales@twisttravelmag.com Please send all general questions and inquiries to hello@twisttravelmag.com. Find us on the web at www.twisttravelmag.com COPYRIGHT NOTICE: Twist Travel Magazine is published by Twist Travel Company LLC. ©2018 Twist Travel Company LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission of

Tara Cannon pintsizepilot.com IG @pintsizepilot

Tawny Clark captainandclark.com IG @captainandclark

the publisher. Digital issue may contain affiliate links.

WWW.TWISTTRAVELMAG.COM

P. 14 HAWAIIAN-INSPIRED BBQ Give your next backyard barbecue a tropical twist with our curated Hawaiian-themed menu.

Summer Travel Inspiration 5 | THE TWIST

39 | NORTH SHORE, KAUAI

Beach days, camping trips, lazy afternoons... summer is defined differently for every family.

Discover a world apart from the condos and beach resorts of Hawaii on Kauai's pastoral North Shore.

10 | SUMMER LOVIN'

42 | FIJI: ESCAPE TO PARADISE

Grab our favorite looks, accessories and gear to keep you and the kids cool this summer.

Island hop from sandy beach to aqua-marine waters while embracing the culture and color of Fiji.

23 | NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE: RALEIGH, NC

46 | CAMPING 101

This laid-back, friendly Southern city is prime for family exploration. Pick a weekend and go!

Our camping guide covers everything from avoiding first trip flops to the gear you need.

26 | CALI ROAD TRIP

57 | JUST DO IT! ADVENTURE CAMPS

Road trip bound? Hit the scenic winding ribbon of Highway 1 along the Central California coastline.

Ideal for parent-kid bonding, family adventure camps pack both adrenaline-indusing activity and R&R.

28 | SHE GETS AROUND: SIX WEEKS IN ASIA

63 | TWIST FAVORITES: UNIQUE HOTELS

A family sabbatical to Asia with three young kids? Find out how one family did it.

Immerse yourself in old-world European charm and frontier splendor at these historic properties.

31 | BABY! IT'S TIME TO TRAVEL

69 | SPOTLIGHT ON NATIONAL PARKS

Have baby, will travel: everything you need to know before that first vacay as a family.

Learn how to snag that popular campsite and which parks to hit from California to Alaska this summer.

4 | TWIST

the

A QUICK GUIDE TO THE SEASON

Summer vacation is a state of mind. You don't have to feel pressure to go on some grand excursion or plan an epic road trip hitting all the major national parks and monuments. Every family gets to decide what they want their summer to be about.

Adventures are really as close as stepping out into your own backyard, exploring your own city, taking family bike rides and meeting up with friends for ice cream. Make a family summer bucket list and post it on the refrigerator and be mindful of how you are spending your time as a family because remember, your kids will be grown before you know it!

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6 | TWIST

d n u o r A t e G

Town Favorites

BY GENEVIEVE BUCKMILLER • WALKINGONTRAVELS.COM

Who doesn’t love summer? For many of us, summer means family vacations in energizing sunshine, with countless hours of outdoor time. You want to conquer the beach, the boardwalk, and browse outdoor markets that are bound to fill up your summer calendar. But how will you get there? Oh, sure you could walk, but why not get there in style with a little pedal and foot power.

As we all try to be a bit more eco-friendly and teach our kids to take care of our planet, the best way we can do this is by leading by example. Instead of throwing the kids into the car this summer, strap bike helmets on the whole family and exercise a little pedal power with these sweet rides. Not only will you cut down on your CO2 footprint, but you will look fabulous lounging at the pool in your new swimsuit too!

1. There's no better way to trek around your town than on a Public bicycle. Public Bikes are designed to be timeless, are expertly constructed, and come in a variety of fun colors to suit your personality. Don't forget to add some accessories like a basket or pannier, and you're good to go. publicbikes.com 2. Sometimes a cruiser just won't do and you need a little more space to haul your goods, or kids, to and from school, the local park, farmers market and work. Madsen Bike stepped up the eco-friendly travel game by giving parents a 40-gallon cargo/passenger bucket, with seat belts, so you can carry your kids and groceries too. Best of all, this bike comes preassembled in the box. All you have to do is attach the front wheel, adjust your seat and you are ready to roll. madsencycles.com 3. Every kid from LA to London knows that the best way to get around town is via scooter, and the best on the market are Micro kickboard scooters. Start your little ones off on the Mini 3in1 Deluxe, moving to the threewheel Micro Mini just as they head off to kindergarten and then onto their very own two-wheel Sprite when they are ready to be 'all grown-up' by third grade. When did our babies grow up so fast?! microkickboard.com

SUMMER SWEEPSTAKES Enter to win $2,500 in prizes!

Visit: https://twisttravelmag.com/sweeps

Market Fresh

MIXING SUMMER BLOOMS LIKE A PRO

BY AMY DITTMER • AMYLAURENFLORALDESIGN.COM

Summer blooms are a seasonal favorite for many reasons!

They’re beautiful, easy to find, and can make any space feel happier. Some varieties to keep an eye out for include peony, hydrangea, lavender, cosmos, Celiosa, Lisianthus, coneflower, dahlia and zinnias.

HOW TO FIND AND ENJOY FLOWERS AT HOME OR ON THE ROAD: 1. Buy local. Flower farming is a great industry to support and makes specialty blooms accessible to everyone. See what looks fresh and buy it.

2. Grow your own. Talk with a garden center to get the best tips on what grows well near you and when to plant. Even a small 'cutting garden' makes a huge difference in adding some variety to arrangements.

3. Go simple. An arrangement doesn’t need multiple elements to be stunning. Single flower arrangements can be elegant and easy to arrange, especially when you are on the go.

8 | TWIST

HOW TO ARRANGE YOUR BLOOMS: 1. Start by selecting your vessel, from an antique pitcher to a thrift store vase or even a clay pot. Fill with cold water and flower food. No flower food? A small splash of vodka will do the trick.

2. Next, add greenery if available. Eucalyptus, ruscus and other varieties are easy to find at the grocery store, or you can cut some tree leaves or honeysuckle from the backyard or a neglected sidewalk.

3. Be certain to remove all leaves that will sit below the water line. Leaves will poison the water and kill the blooms. Arrange the greenery either in bunches or one by one, careful to give a fresh cut on each stem before placing in the water.

4. Flowers come next. Again, make a fresh cut on each stem before placing in the water. Place them anywhere you please. Overthinking it can just get in the way of making something organic and unique. Remember to change out the water at least every couple of days to extend the life of the flowers. Have fun!

SUMMER READS

BY ALLISON WAKEN • ALLFORTHEBOYS.COM

Whether you’re relaxing on warm white sands, wrangling kids by a resort pool, or soaking in natural hot springs, a great book can make it feel like a true summer day. A great beach read looks different to many of us, so this collection has a little something for everyone. A thriller (or two), a smart modern story of an app startup, a magical world and even a taste of old Hollywood... here’s a list of quick entertaining reads just begging to be thrown into your sandy canvas tote.

THE WOMAN IN THE WINDOW

STARTUP

By A.J. Finn • The woman in the window happens to be a child psychologist with a debilitating case of agoraphobia. Anna Fox likes to watch old movies, chat online, and watch her neighbors through the window when she, of course, sees a crime take place.

By Doree Shafrir • Written by an online journalist, Startup is a modern novel about money, love and technology. There are several unique characters throughout the entertaining story, ranging from an app creator to a young journalist to a mother of two married to the man who happens to be the boss of the journalist.

NOT THAT I COULD TELL

By Jessica Strawser • Not That I Could Tell starts off with a group of neighborhood women enjoying wine around a backyard fire pit. By Monday morning, one of the women is missing.

The women can’t help but try to solve the mystery themselves.

THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO

By Taylor Jenkins Reid • This fascinating story takes readers through Hollywood in the 1950s through the 1980s and combines forbidden love with lifelong dreams and, of course, seven different husbands.

BEASTS OF EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCE

By Ruth Emmie Lang • A creative, magical world mixed in with normal humans, this book is a perfect summer read for the imagination. Weylyn Grey was orphaned, raised by wolves and can stop a tornado. The book takes readers through the adventures of many characters whose lives are all changed by one extraordinary boy.

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SUMMER LOVIN'

BY ANDREA FELLMAN • WANDERLUSTLIVING.COM

Tula Skincare TULA means balance in Sanskrit. It's also a leader in probotic skincare that combines powerful probiotics with skin superfoods to give you healthy, balanced and glowing skin. The perfect travel-sized Discovery Collection contains the first four products in TULA's line. tulaskincare.com

Caslon Darcie Slide Sandal The perfect bowtie slide to slip on while going from your room to the pool, to dinner and back to the pool. shop.nordstrom.com

Herbivore Sea salt spray

LIlLy Pulitzer No ugly mom suits here. Lilly Pulitzer swimwear is bright, bold and beautiful. The swimsuits are high quality and very flattering for all shapes and sizes. lillypulitzer.com

SWIG The ultimate musthave for summer!

Swig's insulated wine cup keeps your wine chilled and will protect it from sand and spills. Genius, we say! swiglife.com

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We are obsessed with the light lavender scent and love the texture this spray provides. For best results, spray on damp hair, then crunch between your fingers to recreate beachwaves hair anywhere. herbivorebotanicals.com

Stella & Dot The beach bag that can hold everything you need for a day at the beach or poolside.

Try not to let the kids put their stuff in this one. stelladot.com

George Sun Hats

Snapper Rock

Could these sun protection hats for babies be any cuter? We don't think so. GeorgeHats.com

Snapper Rock stylish swimwear for kids comes from down under in Australia and has a variety of fun prints for the whole family!

Yes, they ship to the USA. snapperrock.com

Swimsuit Bags The most whimsical swimsuit bags for toting around those wet kids' suits. And they're practical, too!

Shop.projectnursery.com

Showaflops These flip-flops have small holes that allow water to drain through them!

Perfect for any big kids heading off to summer camp. showaflops.com

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What to Pack 3

1

Must Haves Kimono Casual Jumpsuit Jean Shorts Linen/ Khaki Shorts Tank Tops Linen / Cotton Joggers Maxi or Midi Dress

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Cute Sandals

2

Tennis Shoes Cardigan

1- MORNING GLORY KIMONO 2- SASHA LINEN SHORTS 3- CLOTH & STONE JUMPSUIT 4- SEYCHELLES WEDGE SANDAL

4

SUMMER Travel Picks

6

Don't Forget Swimsuits Sunscreen Sun Hat Sunglasses Beach Bag Flip Flops Crossbody Bag

5

8

5- LOVE OF MY LIFE DRESS 6- POM POM SANDALS

7

9

7- LEVI'S SHORTS 8- CLOTH & STONE RUFFLED TOP 9- DARCY STRIPED DRESS

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RECIPES

GRILLING WITH A TROPICAL TWIST

BY CARRIE BETH POSENER AND JEN GIAMBALVO • THEMAGNOLIAMAMAS.COM

14 | TWIST

SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO PLAN THE PERFECT BARBEQUE. GATHER YOUR FRIENDS, HEAD OUTDOORS AND FIRE UP THE GRILL. THESE RECIPES ARE TRADITIONAL SUMMER FAVORITES WITH A TROPICAL TWIST!

HAWAIIAN BBQ CHICKEN INGREDIENTS 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 cup barbeque sauce 1 cup pineapple juice 2 tsp soy sauce 1 tsp garlic 1/4 cup oil DIRECTIONS 1. In a bowl, whisk together barbeque sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce and garlic. Pour half of the mixture into a large resealable bag.

2. Add oil and chicken to the bag, seal and chill for 30 minutes up to overnight. Cover remaining sauce mixture and chill until ready to use.

3. Remove chicken from bag and discard bag and marinade. Grill chicken breasts on preheated grill about 8-10 minutes on each side or until thoroughly cooked.

4. Brush chicken with remaining sauce and serve with rice and grilled pineapple slices.

RECIPES

MANGO SLAW INGREDIENTS 2 cups chopped slaw 1 cup mango chopped 3 green onions 1 tbsp ginger 3 tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp sesame oil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tsp garlic powder 1/2 lime juiced 1 tsp sesame seeds DIRECTIONS 1. In a small bowl mix together ginger, vinegars, oil, garlic powder, lime juice and sesame seeds. Cover and refrigerate for 30 mins.

2. In a large bowl mix slaw mixture, mango and scallions.

3. Toss with dressing mixture just before serving.

PINEAPPLE COCONUT RICE INGREDIENTS 2 cups of cooked rice 1 can (8 oz) pineapple slices 1/2 cup flaked coconut 2-3 green onions, chopped DIRECTIONS 1. Cook rice according to package directions.

2. Grill pineapple on grill or pan until charred. Chop grilled pineapple and green onions.

3. Toss pineapple, onions and coconut with rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

TWIST | 15

PINEAPPLE-INSPIRED COCKTAILS

RECIPES

Even if a Hawaiian vacation isn’t in your travel plans this year, consider making one of these tropical cocktails at home. The flavors of coconut and pineapple will transport you somewhere sunny and relaxing. They are all refreshing and perfect for summer!

BLUE HAWAIIAN

MAUI MIMOSA

PINEAPPLE MULE

INGREDIENTS 1 oz coconut rum 2 oz pineapple juice 1 oz Blue Curacao

INGREDIENTS champagne pineapple juice

INGREDIENTS 2 oz vodka 2 oz pineapple juice 1 oz lime juice 1/2 cup ginger beer

DIRECTIONS 1. Fill glass with ice.

2. Pour rum, pineapple juice and Blue Curacao over ice.

3. Stir well.

4. Garnish with pineapple and enjoy!

16 | TWIST

DIRECTIONS 1. Fill champagne flutes half full with chilled sparkling wine.

2. Top with pineapple juice.

3. Enjoy!

DIRECTIONS 1. Fill a copper mug with ice.

2. Pour vodka, ginger beer, pineapple juice and lime juice over ice.

3. Gently stir and enjoy!

Global Kids'

READS

KATJA GASKELL • GLOBETOTTING.COM

Summers are about sunshine, time together and adventure, whether you're traveling to foreign lands or pitching a tent in the backyard. Here are some of our favorite books to inspire your kids to explore the world.

A GOOD DAY FOR CLIMBING TREES

By Jaco Jacobs, Illustrations by Jim Tierney • Middle child Marnus is sandwiched between his star athlete older brother and his clever younger brother who has tricked him into doing the dishes all summer long. But then Marnus meets a girl called Leila and together they lead a protest to save a tree from being cut down by the town’s developers.

THE GROTLYN

ISLANDBORN

By Benji Davies • This beautifully illustrated rhyming tale is full of surprise and suspense. Who is the mysterious Grotlyn who slips through your house at night and creates havoc across town? Children ages four and up will delight in this spooky story about things that go bump in the night.

By Junot Díaz, Illustrations by Leo Espinosa • Fans of Pulitzer Prize winning novelist Junot Díaz will love his debut picture book as much as their kids do. Islandborn explores themes of creativity, diversity, immigration and imagination through the eyes of a young girl called Lola.

YELLOW KAYAK

By Nina Laden, Melissa Castrillon • A wonderful tale of adventure for younger readers, the Yellow Kayak tells the story of a boy and his giraffe as they set sail in a small wooden boat. The simple verse is charming but it’s the beautiful illustrations that really make this a book that you’ll want to keep forever. Perfect for kids aged 4+

THE POLAR BEAR EXPLORER’S CLUB

By Alex Bell • Twelve-year-old Stella Starflake Pearl is desperate to be an arctic explorer. Membership to the Polar Bear Explorer’s Club, however, is strictly for boys. That is, until her adoptive father Felix convinces the club to allow Stella to join him on his latest adventure. This tale of adventure and magic had my 10-yearold gripped from the first page.

THE EXPLORER

By Katherine Rundell • When a plane crashes in the middle of the Amazon jungle, the only survivors are four children who must work together to find a way out. The Explorer is a classic adventure tale filled with beautiful, evocative prose.

GOOD NIGHT STORIES FOR REBEL GIRLS 2

By Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo • As with the first volume, Good Night Stories For Rebel Girls 2 features a host of strong, smart, independent women that both girls and boys can look up to, such as German chancellor Angela Merkel, Harry Potter creator JK Rowling, and the first all-female antipoaching unit in South Africa.

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HOW TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO PLAN YOUR NEXT VACATION

travel planning 101

BY ANDREA FELLMAN • WANDERLUSTLIVING.COM

01

START PINNING

02

FIND HASHTAGS

03

FOLLOW A LOCAL

04

FOLLOW LOCAL TOUR COMPANIES

Pinterest is not so much a social network as it is a search tool. Even if Pinterest is not typically your thing, it is a great way to start your travel research and get visually-inspired about destinations. It can be overwhelming, but once you start to find all the possible activities in a place, you can then start to condense your list to what truly interests you.

Start searching hashtags on Twitter and Instagram that relate to your destination. Twitter is great for finding full articles while Instagram is great for discovering what you can do and see with snippets of information. The less broad the better, but starting out with generalized hashtags will lead you to local people using those hashtags consistently. Then look at what more specific hashtags they are using to gain more of a insider's view.

Go where the locals go! Start following people that actually live in the city you will be visiting. They have the real inside scoop on that destination and will share not only tips and tricks but their local picks. You can even ask them questions about their city and maybe get a few reccomendations. Many times these locals have blogs!

Local tour companies, food tours, and bike tours are usually posting fantastic things all around their city. You can really get some ideas of places to eat and shop. And hey, why not book a tour?

TWIST | 19

travel budget: $2500

BEACH VACATION: TWO WAYS

BY PAIGE CONNOR TOTARO • ALLOVERTHEMAP.NET

FLORIDA’S NATURE COAST What if you went to the beach and there was no beach there?

The western coast of Florida on the northern Gulf of Mexico...can you picture it? No? There are so many gorgeous beaches in Florida that have been developed for tourism it seems like every inch of coastline must be developed. But in the northwest corner of the state, just south of the panhandle in the part we might politely call the armpit of the state, a stretch of coast now known as the Nature Coast exists. This utterly undeveloped, natural coastline is dotted with outdoor attractions unlike anything you’ll find in the other parts of Florida.

While this area an hour north of Tampa and 90 minutes northwest of Orlando doesn’t have the iconic sandy beaches you might associate with Florida, its beaches and spring-fed rivers do feature crystal clear water.

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WHERE TO STAY: The Plantation on Crystal River offers guided manatee swims, scalloping, fishing, paddling, diving, boating, golf and a spa. Starts at $103 per night for a family of four. Cost for a week: $721

Who goes there? Well, you will if you want to swim with manatees. When I first heard about this, I asked a lot of questions. Are they captive manatees? Are they dangerous? Can I hug one? The answers were an emphatic No, No, and Only if they approach you first.

What? It's true: if the manatee approaches you first, they love to be touched. These gentle giants will enjoy your company swimming in the spring-fed rivers where they make their home in winter months.

In summer, forage for dinner during the summer bay scallop season.

In summer, forage for dinner during the summer bay scallop season and then bring your bucket of scallops to a local restaurant to have them prepared for you. You only need a mask, snorkel, flippers, and a bucket, and you’re all set to search for scallops on the sea floor! You can even hunt wading in close to shore, where you don’t even need a fishing license.

Have a kid with a love of mermaids? See them at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. 'Mermaids' put on a show here three times a day, 365 days a year. Weekend mermaid camps for children and adults are available if you want to live out your mermaid fantasy.

WHAT'S YOUR BUDGET? LODGING • Seven nights at a hotel ($103 per night): $721 • Or, off-beach rental in Avalon: $1000 -1500 per week FOOD • Meals including breakfast, lunch and dinner: $1000-1800 ENTERTAINMENT • Guided snorkel with manatees: $45 per person (includes equipment): $180 • Rent a pontoon boat for two hours: $60. Rent equipment for $14 per person: $116 • Guided charter: $300 (includes equipment and license) • Scalloping: free if you have a bucket and wade in, or rent gear for $56 (plus fishing license) • Weeki Wachee Springs (includes mermaid show): $26-52 depending on ages ($13.00 per adult, $8 per child ages 6 – 12.) Children five and under free.

Grand Total $1863 - $3053 TWIST | 21

THE BEST OF THE JERSEY SHORE

There are as many different types of New Jersey beaches as there are exits on the New Jersey Turnpike. In the southernmost beach towns of Cape May County, you can find the grand Victorian hotels of Cape May, the retro 'doo-wop'-style hotels and boardwalks of the Wildwoods, and the preppy family vacation homes of Stone Harbor and Avalon, all within a 30-minute drive.

Also within a short drive: two of my favorite nature centers ever. The Wetlands Institute is a research institution with the friendliest, most child-friendly vibe of any science center I’ve ever come across. The Cape May County Zoo is small with a family-run feel, but my kids loved it. There’s a good amount of information available about the animals if you want it, and it’s free. If you have a bad weather day at the beach, this is a no-brainer. If you need more and feel like spending money, they’ve recently added a treetop adventure course to the park.

WHERE TO STAY (BY REGION): When choosing a beach hotel in New Jersey, you want to look for a beachfront location, charm and affordability. And you can normally only pick two of these.

The Wildwoods: The Jolly Roger Hotel is not on the beach, but there’s a view of the beach from the pool area of this retro hotel. They’ve brought modern touches to the hotel – or at least fresh linens – but they’ve kept the colorful neon. There’s no fee to use the beaches in the Wildwoods.

Stone Harbor/Avalon: This is the sort of place where you rent a house for the week. You won’t find a house on the beach for under $5000 per week, but there are still a few older ranch-style houses available a block or two from the beach for under $2000 per week. And in addition to the lifeguarded beach and the tiny arcade on the small but charming boardwalk, you will still be able to walk or bike to at least three different places for ice cream every day. A beach tag is required for everyone age 12 and up to access the beaches.

Cape May: The Buckingham Motel is a beachfront motel in Cape May with charm that sets you back only $116 per night for a room that sleeps six, with a kitchenette!

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WHAT'S YOUR BUDGET? LODGING • Seven nights at the Jolly Roger Motel: $150 per night • Or, off-beach rental in Avalon: $1000 -1500 per week FOOD • Self-catering: $200-400 • Ice cream daily: $16 per day ENTERTAINMENT • Weekly beach tags for everyone age 12 and older: Avalon $12 , Wildwoods free, Cape May $18 • Cape May County Zoo: free • Wetlands Institute: $8 ages 13 and up, $6 ages 3-12 • Mini golf: averages $40 for 18 holes for four people • Morey’s Piers amusement and water parks: if you want to look more than ride, buy ride tickets to pay as you go: $45 for 70 ride tickets (most rides require more than one ticket). If some want to ride a lot of rides, opt for a wristband: $57 for under 48” tall; $75 for the taller folks. Good at both the amusement park and the water park. If all of you want to do everything there is to do at the piers, opt for a family four-pack for either the amusement park or the water park, or both: $135 - $235.

Grand Total $1289 - $2279

Photos: Visit Raleigh

Welcome to Raleigh y’all!

4 Neighborhoods We Can't Resist in Raleigh, NC

BY CAROLINE MAKEPEACE • YTRAVELBLOG.COM

This capital of North Carolina is a booming metropolis, bursting with entrepreneurial energy from homegrown clothing labels to craft breweries and innovative restaurants. It’s known as the City of Oaks, for the sheer number of majestic oak trees lining the streets. Raleigh's trees keep it feeling fresh, relaxed and like a small town.

Raleigh doesn't have any major tourist landmarks or draw cards, which means you can get lost wandering through its neighborhoods and enjoy a local experience with oodles of friendly Southern charm.

Here are four Raleigh neighborhoods that travelers to the city will love to explore.

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NORTH HILLS North Hills has emerged as Raleigh’s upscale and trendy new midtown. It's a walkable, open-air mix of shops, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes. The Commons has become a prime gathering spot for locals and visitors during the warmer months, with farmers' markets, the very popular Midtown Beach Music Series and the Midtown Music Fest.

After a bit of shopping or a movie, head to the outdoor green space, which has many options to dine al fresco – from casual to classy – as well as an ice cream shop just footsteps away.

For beer lovers, the World of Beer will satisfy you with its selection of 500 offerings. For views and a touch of sophistication, sink into one of the plush lounges at the Level7 rooftop lounge of the AC Hotel.

DOWNTOWN Downtown Raleigh has seen incredible growth in recent years thanks to an influx of artists, entrepreneurs and creatives. It's vibrant and diverse, and is easy explore using the free R-Line circulator bus.

In the Warehouse District, you'll find a chocolate factory, a classic arcade games-style bar, a contemporary art museum, pit-cooked barbecue, a bicycle- themed brewery and a place to grab a pair of locally crafted denim jeans.

For homegrown designers, pop into Holly Aiken’s Stitch where you'll find handmade and colorful purses, wallets and accessories. Moon and Lola has handcrafted pieces of jewelry that Oprah included on her list of 'favorite things' two years running. Flourish Market is a boutique store with beautiful products that support fair wages for inspiring artists around the globe. You may get lost in here, and your kids will also love it!

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Downtown Red Hat Amphitheatre is the place to be in the summer with outdoor music concerts, and nearby Fayetteville street will keep you entertained with plenty of festivals like Artsplosure and Brewgaloo.

Head over to Moore Square to check out Brewery Bhavana, the brewery, bookstore, flower shop and dim sum restaurant that has been recognized as one of the best breweries and coolest places to eat in the world.

Grab a coffee from Raleigh Times and head over to the gigantic three-level Marbles Kids Museum and let the kids play, create and run off some energy.

WEST RALEIGH

CARY

Soak up some of the hipster college vibe in West Raleigh and Hillsborough St, where North Carolina State University is located. You’ll find a great variety of cheap eats and slightly trendy cafes along Hillsborough St, and Cameron Village is where you’ll find more of your upscale boutique shopping and dining. Don't miss the Belgian waffles and coffee at Benelux Café, or Jubala, which has arguably the best coffee in the city.

Known as one of Raleigh’s most family-friendly neighborhoods, Cary is where you’ll find lots of open spaces, greenery and playgrounds, as well as a small, historic tree-lined downtown area.

A short walk from campus brings visitors to Raleigh Little Theatre, one of the nation’s longest-running community theatres. Be sure to enjoy a stroll through the attached Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden, featuring 1,200 roses of 60 different varieties and other bulbs, annuals, trees and shrubs. Outdoor movies are held here in the summer.

The North Carolina Museum of Art is one of the premier visual arts museums in the South, and admission is free.

Bordering the NCSU campus is historic Pullen Park, originally founded in 1887. It’s an iconic spot for families to picnic and play. It features a 1911 Gustave A. Dentzel menagerie carousel, a C.P. Huntington miniature replica train ride, and the long-running Theatre In The Park (Ira David Wood III Pullen Park Theatre). You can also hire boats to paddle on the lake.

The kids will love the hot dogs, soda fountain and milkshakes at Ashworth Drugs, serving the community since 1957. If you want a touch of Southern style, go for Sunday brunch at the Mayton Inn. For outdoor enthusiasts, the greenway system has plenty of trails to explore, along with nearby Lake Crabtree and Umstead State Park, both with miles of mountain biking and hiking trails.

Catch interesting independent films, enjoy a comedy show or listen to some local music, grabbing a craft coffee option of your desire at BREW beforehand. Afterward, cure what ails you at the Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage.

My personal favorite stop is Koka Booth Amphitheatre, the outdoor music venue by the lake. Bring your lawn chairs, your picnic blankets and food and get ready for a serene musical experience. It’s very family- friendly and outdoor movies run during the warmer months.

ENJOY A LOCAL EXPERIENCE WITH OODLES OF FRIENDLY SOUTHERN CHARM.

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CALI ROAD TRIP

GETTING TO KNOW HIGHWAY 1'S CENTRAL COAST

BY ROB TAYLOR • 2TRAVELDADS.COM

FIRST STOP: SANTA BARBARA The perfect little city of Santa Barbara makes for a great destination all its own with wine and art and shopping. Channel Islands National Park beckons just off the coast, ideal for a getaway.

Santa Barbara is also where you'll find Mission Santa Barbara, one of the most picturesque of the California missions. Its pale pink facade, small cemetery, flower-filled courtyard, colorful chapel and extensive museum make it fit for travelers young and old(er).

GOOD FOOD, GREAT WINE, AND UNEXPECTED ADVENTURE AT EVERY TURN. Leaving the SoCal and Los Angeles congestion behind and heading north up the coast, my family and I knew we were bound to find beautiful, quirky, delicious and captivating stops. Our road trip up the California Central Coast did not disappoint. We are now convinced: this trip fits nearly any budget and can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks. And along the winding ribbon of Highway 1, there’s never a dull moment.

Our number one tip: don't be in a hurry. Looking back – and yes, we do plan to do this road trip again – I think next time we’ll eat more ice cream, spend some time hiking in Los Padres National Forest and generally make more wine tasting stops along the way... yes, it's possible with kids! We'll schedule our trip around either Spring Barrel or Crush in the fall, as the amazing, diverse world of wine along the Central Coast could easily be the focus of its own trip.

That said, prepare yourself for fun with the family any time of year. Take note: hidden beaches and vista hikes abound along this route, so give in to the desire to wander off track a bit and to let the schedule relax. You’ll be so glad you did!

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SECOND STOP: SANTA MARIA VALLEY Wonderful wine awaits in the Santa Maria Valley. On the descent from the Los Padres National Forest down into the Santa Maria Valley we drove past student vineyards, loads of wineries and endless rows of grapes. Eating our way through Nipomo, Lompoc and Santa Maria, each meal was accompanied by unique hyper-local wines.

Our afternoon at Ca’ del Grevino Winery in Orcutt really showcased what we love about any wine country: knowledge, pride, and a heavy pour. Whenever we roll through Oregon we try all kinds of great Pinot Noirs, so digging into a complex California pinot from CDG delighted us.

TIP: Exploring wine country means even the smallest stores double as wine shops… staffed with passionate local wine connoisseurs.

THIRD STOP: MORRO BAY Morro Bay State Park made for the perfect kayak trip locale. Renting kayaks at the Morro Bay State Park marina to head out into the bay in search of sea otters proved easy.

Spotting otters is another story… but we did see sea lions, osprey and a pelican nesting ground. The wildlife was a hit with the kids.

For the second part of our kayaking adventure, we paddled across the Morro Bay State Marine Reserve and ran our kayaks ashore at the base of the dunes area, also part of the state park. If you’ve never experienced sand dunes, trust us, they are very unusual and tons of fun. After crossing the sand flat, which felt like walking on marshmallows, we scaled the high mounds of sand.

The kids enjoyed running up and down the dunes and crashing into the soft, hot sand.

TIP: Set some ground rules with kids before letting them loose on sand dunes.The sand is exhausting to hike across and it can be hot.

OUR #1 TIP: DON'T SKIMP ON ANYTHING WITH OLALLIEBERRIES!

FOURTH STOP: CAMBRIA

FIFTH STOP: HEARST CASTLE

Time to get gourmet! The town of Cambria is wicked cute, split into the East and West Villages with Nit Witt Ridge looming above and Moonstone beach just beyond.

California’s coastal gem is the former vacation home of William Randolph Hearst. It’s kind of an overwhelming place: picture all of your favorite aspects of town squares, castles, churches and villas that you might see in Europe and then transplant them into one enormous estate on a California hillside overlooking the ocean.

Hearst Castle is beautiful.

We strolled the East Village with the boys and had a mouth watering meal at Robins. While each course was top-notch, the best thing was the roasted Brussels sprouts with blue cheese and radishes. We loved it so much, we now replicate this interesting and delicious dish a few times a month at home.

TIP: Seek out some olallieberry desserts while you’re in Cambria. The berry is the local delicacy and pie is always a good idea anyway.

We were iffy about taking a two and five-year-old to Hearst Castle, but success! They did very well and even enjoyed it. We built it up as a castle like they’ve seen in movies and they bought into it. They listened intently; they paid attention to the details and stories. We parents enjoyed getting to do an adult activity that fed our need for a little history. Hearst Castle with kids was a win all-around.

TIP: We did the Grand Rooms Tour.

It was stated to be an hour, but between the bus ride up, the tour, and the bus ride down it was two solid hours. We’ve done other tours without the kids in the past, but this tour is great for anybody visiting with little people.

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She Gets Around

MY KIDS WILL NEVER WANT TO GO TO SUMMER CAMP AGAIN

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ONE FAMILY’S SIX WEEK ASIAN SUMMER

By Melisa Fluhr • Project Nursery + Project Junior It was March and I sat in front of my computer with a blank Excel doc in front of me, cursor flashing, feeling totally daunted. I was tasked with mapping out our summer plans, specifically where to place my two older boys in camp and how in the world I was going to occupy my toddler all summer long. By the time I filled in all eight weeks of summer, the spreadsheet tallied up thousands of dollars and sadly, at seven and ten years of age, I knew my boys weren’t even thrilled by the idea of going to camp.

My husband came home that very evening with news of a hectic work travel schedule that would have him away from home for the summer months throughout Asia. I have to admit, I didn’t have much sympathy for the guy and needed to steer the conversation back to my challenge of summer planning for the kids.

She Gets Around

I presented him with glossy camp brochures and marketing videos along with my headache-inducing spreadsheet when he blurted out, “Why don’t you all just come with me? I can spend time with you guys and I won’t have to make the long journey home each week!” Silence.

At first, I thought he'd lost his mind and was fairly certain he’d be fired because we were guaranteed to embarrass him. How were we ever going to make this trip a reality?

Kinkakuji (The Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto, Japan was the last stop on the trip, but not the only highlight as we made our way through Asia

Six whole weeks in Asia? I had to remind him that our twoyear-old daughter was um, two! But eventually, we took it on as a family challenge and thankfully, my dear business partner Pam graciously agreed to deal with all the conference calls happening in U.S. time zones, allowing the business to continue without skipping a beat.

Our first stop was Shanghai, China. It was hot. It felt like 115F degrees with the humidity and blazing sun...that kind of hot. But the excitement of being in a foreign land with so much to explore mitigated the jet lag and the spectacular air-conditioned malls were an added bonus.

Our bravest adventure during our time in Shanghai was jumping on a local Chinese bus and traveling two hours to the ancient water town of Wuzhen, located in the iconic and quiet countryside.

One could imagine Wuzhen as the Venice, Italy, of China.

In contrast, Disneyland Shanghai was voted by my kids the most miserable place on earth due to massively long lines and the potential for heat stroke.

My husband’s work brought us to Sanya, China, next for a stay at The Sanya Edition. This chic, beautifully designed resort is located on the southern end of China’s Hainan Island. With a private beach, two pools, and even bumper cars, everyone had a smile on their face. Well-rested, we hopped over to Bangkok to begin our tour of Thailand next. We had honeymooned in Thailand many years ago.

The city, its people and culture hold a very special place in our hearts which made it even more exciting to share with our kids. From adventures on tuk-tuks to temple tours, to water markets and even a train market (yes an actual train runs straight through the center of the market every hour), we had plenty to do and see every day.

Leaving the hustle of Bangkok, we slowed way down and headed to the famous beaches of Thailand. Our next two locations included Phuket followed by the island of Koh Samui. Our preference hands down is Koh Samui for its idyllic beaches, national marine parks, shopping and more.

However, a major highlight was our family’s visit to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. We enjoyed the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures who have unfortunately been abused working in the trekking and logging industries. A handful of gentle giants are now able to receive treatment and retire safely thanks to this privately-funded refuge. We walked away with a valuable lesson in ethical tourism.

Six whole weeks in Asia? I had to remind [my husband] that our twoyear-old daughter was, um, two!

She Gets Around The third and final country on our summer tour was Japan. Tokyo is a fabulous, albeit expensive, city to visit.

We couldn’t get enough of its food scene; from sushi to ramen noodles and robatayaki, there was something for everyone to enjoy! My personal favorite stop was a visit to the underground food halls in Tokyo’s many high-end department stores. Of course, the Imperial Palace, with its gardens and many temples, is a must-see. For kicks, we built in additional time to take on a Pokemon Mega Center and J-World for the gaming enthusiasts in our family. We ended our travels on a high note, taking in the exquisite beauty of Kyoto. We visited Kinkakuji (The Golden Pavilion), hiked to meet wild monkeys, wandered through a bamboo forest and stared in awe at the geishas seen within the historic Gion district.

Overall, this trip opened up our family’s eyes to what a special and diverse place the world is.

You may be wondering how we survived a whole six weeks traveling as a family. Personally, I am still amazed we pulled it off. We did, however, have a little help. After planning our extensive trip, we invited the grandparents to join during portions of our adventure.

Halfway through the trip, my kids became serious travel professionals; they knew they had to pull out all battery packs at security, when and where to find immigration and how to avoid getting a temperature check when coming off the plane. Of course, there were bumps in the road, like neglecting to pre-purchase train tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto on the single busiest travel day of the entire year in Japan. Overall, this trip opened up our family’s eyes to what a special and diverse place the world is. My children now have a healthy understanding that while America is an amazing place with tremendous variety, there is a whole world outside the U.S. if you are willing to explore. Our journey made us grow closer as a family and we can now all agree on one thing: next summer we’ll be vacationing in a cold weather climate.

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Baby!

WE'VE GOT PLACES TO GO!

By Leslie Harvey, Andrea Fellman and Brianne Manz

Baby's First Trip

BY LESLIE HARVEY • TRIPSWITHTYKES.COM

After a long cross-country flight with a one-year-old, my husband and I settled into a vacation rental on the Isle of Palms, a beach town not far from the city of Charleston, South Carolina. Our first order of business on this family vacation: the beach.

Dressed in a ruffled swimsuit and coated in copious amounts of sunscreen, my redheaded daughter delighted in her first experience in the surf and sand. We surrounded her with toys to help her build a sand castle.

I glanced away for just a moment, looking back in time to see her stuff an enormous fistful of sand right into her mouth. Her face immediately turned to a look of disgust, but she got over the taste and texture quickly. We assumed no long-term harm would come of it.

Before our South Carolina trip, my husband and I had traveled with my daughter quite a few times in the preceding year of her life. Somehow those other travels do not fully count in my mind, however, as they were for the purpose of visiting family. My husband and I both have relatives spread all over the country, and as the firstborn of her generation in our family, our daughter had an adoring public of aunts, uncles and greatgrandmothers to visit. We boarded planes and rented cars plenty often, but we were not yet truly traveling with our daughter in a way that focused solely on experiencing a destination.

The trip to Charleston was our first real vacation with our baby. Charleston had long been on our bucket list

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as a couple, but we had never made the trip before having kids. Charleston seemed to offer the right mix of food, history and culture for adults as well as activities and accommodations to suit a baby. It is also relatively inexpensive, so we reasoned that if we found traveling with a baby to be a total bust, at least we would not have blown our family budget.

For the rest of the trip, we were naturally on high sand alert during beach outings. We also took the opportunity to see and do much more beyond the beach. We visited the South Carolina Aquarium, took a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district of Charleston, and toured some magnificent antebellum mansions. We introduced our one-year-old to her first taste of shrimp and grits and a few other Southern delicacies.

We also watched in awe as our baby took her first steps on the lawn of Fort Sumter. My husband and I studied Civil War history in college together, so it only seemed fitting that our daughter found such a historically significant place to mark her own milestone.

We managed the usual logistics that traveling with a baby entails: diaper changes, naps, missed naps, and the occasional related meltdown. We even had a moment or two of rest ourselves, as my parents and sister joined us for part of the trip. Having a doting aunt and two grandparents along to help entertain our daughter made the trip feel like a true vacation.

THINK OUTSIDE THE DESTINATION BOX Destinations that are obviously kid-friendly like a beach or Disney park may seem like the smartest choice for a first trip. Do not be afraid, however, to think more creatively. Babies will engage with, and be delighted by, just about anything new, from a ride on a city subway to the views glimpsed from a perch in a hiking backpack in a national park. While your child is young and does not have strong opinions about what he or she wants to do on vacation, go to destinations that interest you as a parent.

Our second child’s first destinations were to Lake Tahoe and to Montreal, Canada. These trips were definitely more about what my husband and I wanted to experience than what was an ideal fit for him as an infant.

BRING HELP

SPIT

If you have extended family members who are healthy, willing and able to help care for your little one on a vacation, bring them along. Multigenerational travel is all the rage these days, and with good reason. Grandmas and grandpas get time to have fun with their grandchildren, and parents get some extra hands and babysitting so they can seize a moment of vacation rest and relaxation.

LEVART

What made our first vacation experience with our baby such a success can be attributed to a variety of factors: the right destination, the right accommodations, and the right expectations. For other parents looking to plan a first trip with an infant or toddler, here are a few important tips and observations from the other side.

LOOK FOR SMARTER LODGING No matter what your destination, one of the keys to success when taking a first trip with a baby or toddler is selecting lodging that works. While babies are certainly small enough to fit with you in a standard hotel room, a hotel might not be the smartest choice. Often, vacation rentals with extra bedrooms or a full kitchen will help everyone enjoy the vacation much more. Take it from a parent who has had to sit in total darkness and silence at 7:00 p.m. in a desperate attempt to coax a baby to sleep in a hotel room.

REVISE YOUR EXPECTATIONS For new parents who traveled in their pre-child years, the first trip with a baby is likely to be a bit of a shock. You will need to plan around feedings and naps. Your little one might choose to have an epic meltdown right in the middle of a quiet museum you were dying to visit. For a traveler like myself who always eked out every minute of time on vacation, I had to learn to let go. Schedule only one or two big outings a day to avoid an overtired baby.

Be flexible as you look for your new normal as a young family of travelers.

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Have Baby, will Travel!

Petunia Tote The chic Downtown Tote from Petunia is the perfect carry-on bag that you can also take to the pool and beach without looking like you're carrying diapers, wipes and other baby paraphernalia! petunia.com

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MOBY Wrap The only item that might be more important than your swimsuit, this comfortable wrap will keep your little peanut safe and warm. A wrap is perfect for lounging poolside with baby. mobywrap.com

Baby Zen YoYo Stroller The stroller that finally meets a girl on the go's lifestyle! You can catch a cab, hop onto the subway, or fly to the other end of the world with this compact stroller that folds up and fits in the overhead compartment. babyzen.com

Tubby Todd

Sprout Food Pouches

Chances are you'll be finding sand in the diaper for weeks after your trip, but baby still needs to take a bath on vacay. tubbytodd.com

Food pouches are sort of like lipgloss... you can never have too many! Pack a few of these organic food pouches in every bag. sproutorganicfoods.com

Baby Björn Travel Crib There is no shame in bringing a travel crib when it is as light and easy to tote as the Baby Björn Travel Crib Light. This has been a favorite for families on the go for TK years. Perfect for grandma's house, hotel rooms and even the campsite! babybjorn.com

Skip Hop

Baby Björn One Carrier The Baby Björn One Carrier is perfect for navigating busy city streets, crowded markets or hiking old Mayan ruins. A carrier is not only better but a must in many travel situations.

Baby Björn is the brand parents can trust to keep their baby safe and secure. babybjorn.com

When traveling with toddlers, you should always have a few small meals or snacks ready for when travel days don't go as planned. The Skip Hop water bottles and food storage containers make bringing your favorite snacks simple and cute! skiphop.com

A stroller for 3 kids!

Joovy Qool Stroller For families traveling with more than just one kid in tow, the Joovy Qool Stroller is like the SUV of strollers. With more than 50 different configurations, you can add optional seats, car seat adapters, bassinet(s), a toddler bench seat and more. joovy.com

Plane Pal The Plane Pal is a clever air mattress designed to fill the space between the plane seat and the seat in front of your child.

Filling this gap instantly makes a comfy resting place for your child’s legs – instead of them dangling all over your lap! It’s almost like a mini blow-up bed for the plane and we think it’s brilliant. penguinotravel.com

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"MY SECRET WEAPON? BABY POWDER!" Needless to say, sun protection is imperative, and I prefer mineral sunscreens that can be used by the whole family. Supergoop and Coola are great natural options, which rub on clear, and last pretty long. Hats are a must, especially for babies; the bigger the brim the better. You can pick up some cool hats, and shades too, at Crew Cuts for the bigger kids.

SUMMER travel tips with kids in tow

BY BRIANNE MANZ • STROLLERINTHECITY.COM

Summer is my favorite season, because I love the freewheeling lazy days and balmy temperatures. As soon as school is out, we hit the road and head straight to the beach, my happy place.

With three kids and almost 10 years of motherhood under my belt, I have definitely learned to be prepared for summertime and travel with kids at every age and stage. The most important thing I have learned is to keep the kids engaged. Swimming, playing in the sand, biking, eating healthy foods... the list goes on.

Whether your kids are babies or teens, it is important to keep everyone protected from the sun, stay hydrated and be happy. Happiness for my kids means good food. In addition to sandwiches, fresh fruits and veggies, I load up on snacks and plenty of water.

Hydration is key! I like those bottles with the built-in filter so we can refill along the way, and we keep big water jugs in the back of the car all year round. Smoothie pouches are always great to have on hand, and rather than lugging ice-packs, I freeze a few small bottles of water to chill coolers. This keeps our load lighter and ensures our water is always cold. Freezing fruit makes for refreshing and healthy snacks, and is another way to keep the kids hydrated.

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Since we spend many hours out and about in the summer, swimsuits play a big part in skin protection from sun exposure. Long-sleeved rash-guards are perfect for the park, pool and beach, saving time with those extra sunscreen applications when kids are covered with sand. And speaking of sand, how about some fun at the beach? Sand toys, a kite and a beach ball (or any ball) are in our summer arsenal at all times.

A sun shelter or tent can come in handy when at the beach or park. If your kids are still in the napping stage, a shelter is key. Turkish towels are my go-to because they are lightweight, pack well and dry in five minutes. Plus they double as cover-ups for mama when nursing or walking around on the sand.

After a long day at the beach, you may want to leave the sand behind, so make sure to carry a few outfit changes, as well as sensible waterproof footwear for your clan. My secret weapon for sand is baby powder. It removes sand from dry hands and legs like magic!

I know this sounds like a lot, and we probably look like a traveling circus with all these things stuffed in our car, but with three kids we need to be prepared.

We scale back for shorter trips, and use travel-sized sunblocks, smaller snack portions, and less toys. And you can even ditch the sandwiches for lunch at a beach-front restaurant!

SIX WAYS TO SHARE A HOTEL ROOM WITH YOUR BABY

BY LESLIE HARVEY • TRIPSWITHTYKES.COM

01

02

03

04

05

Dirty diapers? Utilize the ice bucket liner or plastic laundry bag if you forgot to pack your own. No one wants to live in a small space with the stink that a diaper can cause in a matter of minutes, so pack it up tight.

Pack just one roll of tape for a multitude of childproofing needs. A simple roll of duct or blue painters tape can cover a lot of dangers like outlets or sharp coffee table corners.

Don't forget to secure the toilet seat!

Need hot water for bottles? Run the coffeemaker without the coffee and you will have plenty. The coffeemaker is also great for a variety of snack hacks – making hot cocoa, instant oatmeal, ramen noodles and more.

Need to refrigerate milk overnight?

Fill up the ice bucket and stick a small milk carton inside. Even better: many hotels offer refrigerators for free to those traveling with babies, but you need to request it. Need another option? Grab shelf-stable individual cartons of milk; no fridge needed!

Utilize the bathroom or closet as living space. Have a baby with an early bedtime who won’t go to sleep with light and distraction from other occupants? No problem! Put her travel crib in the closet or bathroom! Make sure there is adequate ventilation wherever your baby is going to be and make sure he or she can’t reach other hazards like hangers.

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DOCKATOT

The ultimate docking station for your baby ages 0-8 months old or 5-22Ibs. The multitasking Dockatot™ Deluxe+ offers a safe and comfy spot that lets baby rest, lounge, play, and get diaper changes.

Docatot is lightweight and portable, and additional covers are available to match your personal style. dockatot.com

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i i a w a H : i a u Ka

ORE H S H M NORT DS.CO

UND O F C MAGI

I ER M FORK H T TOPS RAVELS.CO S O T I P • S T ' Y N I E O G ITL ALKIN Y WH WAI A

BY AM MEANS • W H N O ERYN PHOT

OS BY

K

Twenty-five miles north of Lihue, Kauai’s smattering of tourist destinations and restaurants and a world away from the island’s resort-heavy South Shore, a rusted pickup truck sits at the end of a dirt drive, waiting to be loaded with the week’s mango crop.

My young nephew, barefooted and shirtless, hefts one in, grinning as it rolls loudly across the dented truck bed. His mother snaps a photo, catching the blur of his hibiscuspatterned swim trucks against the backdrop of the truck’s rainbow-tinted plates.

This snapshot taken at North Country Farms in Kilauea captures the essence of Kauai’s North Shore: it’s a little bit country, not a lot of rock ’n roll. What you get here is a slower pace of life, even by Hawaiian standards, coupled with plenty of rogue chickens, roadside farm stands, quiet beach towns and the stunning scenery you came to see.

Our extended family has taken several trips to Kauai’s North Shore, drawn to its quiet vibe and abundant nature.

Along the ridiculously beautiful Kuhio Highway (Highway 56), the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge awaits, where the slopes of an extinct volcano provide ample space to run and play and spot green turtles, monk seals, and even humpback whales.

Up the shore, the Na Aina Kai botanical gardens include playgrounds for little ones amid 240 acres of gardens, forests, and beaches. Bring a picnic meal to enjoy at a 40 | TWIST

North Shore beach afterward; Anini and Ke’e are rarely crowded stretches of paradise. Tip: find Anini south of Princeville, take Anini Road from the highway. Ke’e is the last beach accessible by car at the end of the road past Hanalei… hard to miss.

And past that? The stunning Na Pali coast beckons hikers to the famed Kalalau Trail. Families don’t have to hike its full 11-mile treacherous route (which requires a hiking permit), however. We have found you can hike half the distance or less and be just as wowed. Start at the trailhead just past Ke’e Beach, and be prepared for a steep grade the first half mile to a stunning overlook of the ocean. Trekking two miles in rewards families with pretty Hanakapai’ai Beach, where the adventurous can head an additional two miles up a side trail to Hanakapai’ai Falls. Note: for those playing along at home, this is an eight-mile round-trip hike.

For those who would rather see the Na Pali coast from the deck of a sailboat, Mai Tai in hand, Holo Holo Charters will take you there (but note that most charters depart from the South Shore, necessitating an early am drive). We enjoyed a continental breakfast on the boat, where we watched dolphins dive amid our wake en route to Na Pali.

Rugged cliffs and sea caves entertained when we weren’t stopped to snorkel off the deck.

Most days, you’ll want to relax at a North Shore beach in Hanalei or Princeville, peruse a farmers' market or sign up for a sunrise yoga class or mid-morning surf lesson, but if a day trip beckons, head to Wailua. Here, midway back to Lihue, you can float along one-time irrigation canals cutting paths through a sugar cane plantation. Kauai Backcountry Adventures offers guided trips through the flumes and tunnels for a unique, beautiful, and at times thrilling ride.

The water is fast-flowing and colder than you’d expect as you bump into others while floating down the narrow canals. Occasional tunnels underground add a flair of the dramatic, beautiful and just scary enough if you turn off

your lights to keep older kids entertained. Throughout the float, the Kauai forests and unused plantation lands surround you, with bird song at all times.

Grab your breakfasts at Moloaa Sunrise Fruit Stand between Hanalei and Kapa’a for fresh fruit sold by the pound and smoothies that drink like a full meal, or stay for lunch and enjoy the ahi tuna sandwich. Puka Dog in Hanalei provides stiff competition, however; their to-die-for hot dogs are topped with pineapple and banana relish, hot garlic sauce, or Hawaiian spicysweet mustard. Casual evening meals can be had back at the Kilauea Fish Market, a hole-in-the-wall restaurant near the Kilauea Lighthouse which promises the freshest catch. For a nice evening out, the Dolphin Restaurant in Hanalei features open-air dining, and Postcards Cafe affords diners with a more intimate setting. Kids go to bed tired and get up with the sun on the Garden Isle, but in this rural corner of Kauai, the roosters will be crowing anyway, and the organic coffee’s perking.

WHERE TO STAY NORTH COUNTRY FARMS: A family-owned and operated organic farm, North Country Farms offers more than just a place to lay one’s head: it’s a quiet respite for adults that simultaneously provides endless entertainment for children. Their guest cottages include dining areas and kitchenettes, and throughout their stay, kids and adults alike are encouraged to pick all the fruit desired from the surrounding orchards.

HANALEI COLONY RESORT: This quiet resort, just north of the town of Hanalei, offers condo-style suites with a full kitchen, as well as a small spa and a fantastic restaurant.

Find quiet bliss for miles as you walk the beach. Each building looks more like a summer camp cabin for grownups, but the interior is swathed in modern Hawaiian decor

by Philpotts Interiors. Best of all, there is no TV, stereo or phone, so you are forced to truly unplug.

PRINCEVILLE: For families who want the convenience of a vacation rental home close to resort amenities like tennis courts and bike paths, a rental in Princeville delivers, and puts you adjacent to the charm of Hanalei.

VACATION RENTALS IN HAENA: Rental sites like Homeaway.com and Vacatia.com have a large inventory of properties near Tunnels Beach on the North Shore for those families really looking to get away from it all.

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FIJI ESCAPE TO PARADISE

BY CLAUDIA LAROYE THETRAVELLINGMOM.CA

MY SON’S VOICE RUNG OUT LOUD AND STRONG. “HIGH TIDE,” HE REQUESTED, IN ANSWER TO THE VILLAGE CHIEF’S INVITATION TO DRINK A CUP OF KAVA, THE NATIONAL DRINK OF FIJI. A BRIMMING HALF COCONUT SHELL OF MUDDY BROWN LIQUID WAS PRESENTED TO HIM, WHICH HE ACCEPTED WITH BOTH HANDS, DOWNING THE DRINK IN ONE GO.

EMBRACING LOCAL TRADITIONS AND TRYING NEW THINGS ARE ALWAYS

TRAVEL GOALS FOR OUR FAMILY.

A strong clap followed, indicating satisfaction with the slightly peppery beverage, and two more full bowls were drunk, as is the custom.

Upon completion of the ritual, my son was warmly welcomed as a village guest, as was my husband who’d also braved a 'high tide' portion of the drink.

My coconut shell was filled with the lowest of ‘low tide,’ so as to appear respectable in my attempt to honor the chief and the traditional ceremony. But despite the warning that the kava would taste as unappealing as it looked, it was nowhere near as bad as I’d feared. I downed my portions, clapped, and smiled at the chief. I had completed my mission, given to me by our driver Johnnie when we’d arrived ten days earlier in Nadi. “You haven’t been to Fiji unless you’ve drunk kava.”

Embracing local traditions and trying new things are always travel goals for our family. Part of the magic of visiting new destinations is learning about unique cultures, food and people. Before we’d even boarded our Fiji Airways flight from Los Angeles, we got a taste of the welcoming bula spirit and culture of Fiji that we would enjoy during our two week visit.

Similar to the Hawaiian aloha, bula has more than one meaning, but the sentiment is true in spirit: welcome, enjoy, good health, life! You can’t but smile and be happy when you say the word; a great way to be when you’re a stranger exploring a new place, even one as friendly and welcoming as Fiji.

The tropical paradise of Fiji (there are 333 islands to choose from), has lived large in my travel dreams for

decades as an exotic, faraway place, to be reached on an eventual bucket list trip.

But the incredible family-friendliness of Fiji, its people and resorts, should encourage parents to consider a visit sooner rather than later in their children’s lives. It is a family travel paradise.

It’s not possible to visit that many islands in one go, unless you’ve got an entire year, so visitors should consider island hopping as a way of experiencing the variety of what Fiji has to offer. The three islands and resorts we enjoyed during our two week stay provided an unique experience that revealed a different side of Fiji at every turn.

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THERE ARE NO TELEPHONES OR TELEVISIONS,

AND THEY WON’T BE MISSED. YOU’VE LEFT

THE WORLD BEHIND, REMEMBER?

For a true island getaway-from-it-all, catch a South Sea Cruises ferry from Port Denerau near Nadi to magical Castaway Island to enjoy sister property Castaway Island Resort. (You can also arrive by helicopter or float plane if you’re flush and in a rush to get to paradise.)

Castaway is an idyllic little private island off the main island of Viti Levu. The island is just 174 acres, covered in tropical rainforest, and surrounded by the purest of white sand beaches. The ocean waters are warm, in varying shades of turquoise blue that reveal healthy coral reefs, teeming with ocean life and multicolored fish.

VITI

LEVU

AND

CASTAWAY

ISLANDS

Situated on the southern Coral Coast of Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu, the Outrigger Reef Fiji Resort is a familyfriendly property that really caters to younger children, parents and multi-generational families. Popular with Australians, for whom Fiji can be reached in just a threeor four-hour flight, the resort offers a variety of accommodation options, from cost-effective hotel suites to individual beachside bures (cabins) complete with butler service. There’s a large kids' pool and lazy river with buffet and full-service restaurants (with an optional meal plan) sprinkled throughout the property. The Outrigger Fiji Beach has an excellent kids club for children, Meimei nannies for wee ones, and a packed day schedule of kid and teen activities (many at no charge) to keep children of all ages entertained. Activities include kayaking, snorkeling, pool games, cultural adventures, hiking and visits to a local village school.

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There are only sixty bures on the island, so the resort is intimate and compact. Each freestanding bure has been modeled in traditional style, with thatched roofs, high vaulted ceilings and air conditioning. There are no telephones or televisions, and they won’t be missed.

You’ve left the world behind, remember?

This is the place to let the kids roam free to meet new friends at the kids' club. Guests can spend all day in and around the ocean, snorkeling in the calm water, kayaking, sailing, swimming or paddle boarding. Many of the water activities are complimentary with a stay. Kids as young as ten can take a scuba diving certification course before heading out for dives in deeper waters. After the day’s activities, families connect over dinner in the open-air Waters Edge Restaurant or watch the sunset over a wood-fire pizza at the Sundowner Bar and Grill.

Tip: Sign up for Castaway’s Daily Meal Plan, which includes all buffet meals and a la carte selections. Bonus: kids under age three eat free.

VANUA

LEVU

Located in the protected marine sanctuary near Savusavu Bay on the island of Vanua Levu, the five-star luxury and incredible family-friendliness of the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort promises to exceed expectations. The resort pairs authentic Fijian hospitality with an environmentally-sustainable mandate left by its Cousteau family heritage. Add the award-winning Bula Club for kids into the mix – where every child under the age of five gets a dedicated nanny, and those under 12 get grouped with a Fijian buddy – and you have the makings of an unforgettable family holiday where everyone can get exactly what they wish.

The resort is all-inclusive (excluding alcohol), and includes all kids, teens, and most adult activities. Scuba diving through the Cousteau Dive Centre is booked separately, and kids from 10 years of age can learn to dive in the pool first, and then in the neighboring reefs.

The world-famous Namena Marine Reserve is nearby, and the opportunity to explore one of the healthiest coral reefs in the world shouldn’t be missed.

...LIE

BY

THE

POOL

AND

Each family settles into its own large, traditional bure, serviced by attentive and friendly staff, many of which have been with the Cousteau Resort for decades. The open-air dining area has separated seating for families and couples, but everyone shares the same gorgeous views of the pool area and Savusavu Bay. Food service includes delicious Fijian-inspired dishes served tableside, as well as weekly traditional ‘lovo’ buffet feasts, where various meats have been prepared in a fire pit covered with banana leaves. There are many opportunities to appreciate Fijian nature and culture through day trips to the local market, listening to local musicians, learning about medicinal plants, and visiting hidden waterfalls in the lush jungle.

Or just relax, enjoy a meditative yoga session, lie by the pool, and melt away into Fiji time. Heaven on earth?

You’ll have to experience it for yourself to find out. No matter where you choose to enjoy your family’s Fiji time, the bula spirit of these tropical islands will remain with you long after your trip has faded into a dreamy memory.

MELT

AWAY

INTO

FIJI

TIME.

CAMPING 101 THE TWIST GUIDE TO CAMPING WITH YOUR KIDS...

EVEN IF YOU AREN'T QUITE READY YET!

BY KATE SPILLER, TARA CANNON, MIRA POLING ANSELMI AND CLAUDIA LAROYE

Such a large group might make an introverts’ heart start to palpitate, but we found the perfect place to settle our little village, where everyone could book a space that suited their personal level of comfort. From square footage for a tent in the group site, to a glamped-out canvas tent with more privacy, a secluded yurt, or a room in the small lodge, there was something for everyone. What piece of paradise offered all of the above? Lakedale Resort on San Juan Island, Washington state, a three-hour journey by car and iconic ferry ride, or a quick float plane ride from Seattle.

[THE KIDS] ALL RAN AROUND LIKE THEY OWNED THE PLACE AND WE WERE HAPPY TO OBLIGE THE NOTION.

Multi-family

CAMPING

NIRVANA

Photos: Lakedale Resort

BY MIRA POLING ANSELMI • MIRASTORIES.COM

How a group of friends created their own special camping village... and discovered a new tradition in the process.

Many thought we were crazy for planning a five-day camping trip with our one and twoyear-old boys over the Fourth of July holiday last summer. But what truly felt crazy was facing the crowds in the city for the massive celebrations, including fireworks popping off all night long. To escape the city, the traffic, the crowds and noise for Fourth of July seemed to us like a very rational, sane thing to do with such tinies in tow. Our friends with toddlers of their own apparently agreed as all those we invited accepted our invitation.

Suddenly we found ourselves planning a fiveday camping trip for 25 adults and 20 kids under five years old.

For five days our families unplugged, unwound and loosened our grip on our own children as we settled into the routine of being part of a village where the kids moved in a pack from tent to tent, feet bare, sun on their hair and dirt under their fingernails, completely entertained by each other and themselves. As a mother of two rambunctious boys under the age of three, I am rarely afforded a moment to let my guard down, or even focus my eyes on anything other than my kids for longer than 30 seconds. (Seriously, it takes hours sometimes to simply return a text because in the time it takes to complete one, they can easily destroy a room, themselves, each other, or the cat.)

Under a blue sky, surrounded by trees and lakes, with the sounds of the birds and a breeze, I found myself relaxing with friends in the sun, having completely uninterrupted conversations. It was something I hoped for deep down, but didn’t think was possible at this stage in our lives.

Outside in nature, I found that my kids just need me less. They don’t require my constant attention, or rely on me to entertain them and create games for them.

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They don’t have tantrums because they want my phone or beg to watch a show. During our trip, they discovered on their own which family had playdough, which had brought glue for sticking found items to paper, which tent had the bounciest beds, who brought the bikes, the wagons, and the beach balls, and how to work together to get into and out of a hammock on their own. They ran around like they owned the place and we were all happy to oblige the notion.

We kept the planning simple. We picked the location and dates, emailed the details to our friends and basically said, “Book a spot for the dates you want.” I created a private Facebook group and reminded the group which dates ferry reservations became bookable. We decided to let each family be responsible for their own meals, planning one group potluck. We created three camp kitchens and moved the picnic tables together for communal meals. In the end, sharing happened naturally and more than once I discovered my kids had been fed before I could even open my cooler.

The group site where most of us camped became the hub for all group activity. Since we were all toting underfives, our schedules lined up nicely, with activity starting with the rising of the sun with breakfast and coffee, followed by a swim in the lake, then lunch and naps or quiet time. Afternoons brought hikes or visits to an offsite beach. We ate early dinners and after the kids went down, parents would emerge from quiet tents one by one until we were all together around a crackling fire with whiskey and wine, a telescope aimed at the stars, laughter and inside jokes, never missing our baby monitors and phones.

I surveyed the group to see if we should book the same thing for next year and every single family said “Yes!” While there is a lot of work that goes into planning a camping trip with little kids, there is surprisingly little work to do once there. Sit back, relax and watch your kids commune with nature, something they’ll naturally do with little intervention from you.

DIRT, STICKS,

s'mores AND FUN

CAMPING GUIDE FOR FAMILIES WITH BABIES AND SMALL CHILDREN

BY KATE SPILLER • WILDTALESOF.COM Don't let the age of your children stop you from pitching a tent this summer at your favorite campground or park.

There’s something about camping that connects us to a place more than just staying in a hotel or rental home.

Uninterrupted time to live our lives outdoors in the very nature we seek and crave is priceless. With a bit of preparation and planning, and some perseverance and patience, families with babies and small children can actually enjoy this special experience in nature.

SLEEP Analyze your child’s sleeping arrangement at home, then plan how to replicate the set-up at your campsite. We rely upon and love our routines at home for getting the kids to bed, so we do our best to duplicate those rituals while we are away. Go through routines in your mind while you're packing for the trip to make sure that you have all the items that make it work. Pajamas, books, security items, toothbrushes, sound machines (don't forget the batteries), and sleep sacks top our list as must-haves.

For babies and toddlers who sleep in a crib at home, consider packing a lightweight travel crib such as the Lotus Travel Crib from Guava Family or the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light, and simply place it directly in the tent. With a large enough tent, parents can sleep beside children. Or, do as we do, and bring multiple tents to provide private sleeping quarters.

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ACTIVITIES

CAMP LIFE AND SAFETY

To some, it might sound restricting but for us it’s actually freeing to have at least a few things planned out and scheduled with realistic expectations and flexibility.

Research ahead of time to find hikes that are relatively close by with doable mileage and levels of interest for your children, and get to know the park in which the campsite is located.

One of the greatest challenges we faced when first camping with young children was setting up camp. My husband and I made the mistake of thinking that we could both work on camp tasks while the baby or toddler played. Frustration ensued, and we figured out that we could accomplish more by taking turns. One grown-up had kid duty while the other worked without interruption. Carriers also come in handy for babies and young toddlers who don't mind tagging along.

Print scavenger hunts and find out if geocaches or letterboxes are hidden nearby. Many parks and campgrounds have playgrounds, engaging nature trails, education centers, and other kid-friendly features such as beaches, lakes, and rivers, so choose wisely. Toddlers and young children may also enjoy a slackline set-up between two trees at the campsite. This is a great way to keep kids busy but close by.

Also look into things to do such as in-town museums, coffee shops, restaurants, and parks in the area in case you find yourself going stir crazy at camp. If you are like us, you may never use most of the suggestions that you jot down, but it will feel good to at least have options.

Upon arrival, go over the campground boundaries and rules with young children to give a frame of reference and sense of place. Older babies and toddlers are like mini-scientists and engineers; they want to know how things work. Allow this to an extent, but also do your best to prevent any mishaps and make a plan for when things go wrong: • Campfires: Communicate with your camping partners and trade off supervision. Consider building a physical barrier to act as a visual aid to keep kids safe.

• Rain: With potential precipitation in the forecast, pack rain gear, tarps, ropes, and activities to do in the tent to stay dry.

• Injuries and sickness: Consider a plan of action in the event a family member gets hurt or sick. Be prepared with a first aid kit, and be aware of the closest medical clinic and hospital.

• Environmental hazards: Know the potential dangers of the camping area including plants (poison ivy, cacti, etc), insects (mosquitoes, bees, fire ants, etc), animals (bears, elk), steep ledges, trip hazards, and water dangers.

• Road safety: In car camping situations in particular, be aware of camp traffic from cars, RVs and even fellow young campers on their bikes and scooters.

SLEEPING ◦ Go through your home routine and pack items to mirror those rituals (don't forget your child's favorite stuffed animal, favorite blanket and pillow).

FOOD and DRINK ◦ Don’t forget bottles, special cups and utensils for the kids. Also, consider packing a travel high chair that can attach to a chair or bench. .

CLOTHING and ACCESSORIES ◦ Always check the weather. ◦ Remember that evenings and early mornings are often cooler. Have a jacket or sweatshirt for everyone. ◦ Bring along your favorite baby carrier or two.

CAMPING SUPPLIES ◦ Practice setting up your tent before your adventure begins. Toddlers may even like to try backyard camping before your first adventure away from home! ◦ Pack items to keep your camp tidy, organized and 'home-like' such as a clothesline, chairs, headlamps, lanterns, tea towels and tablecloths.

Photos: Kate Spiller and Amy Whitley

PACKING To ensure that nothing essential gets left behind, create or refer to a packing list. In addition to helping us remember important items, a packing list will also keep you and your travel partners on the same page. Check items off the list as they are packed, and also add to the list as you think of extra things you don’t want to forget.

Make sure the list is organized into categories in order to help you visualize the different scenarios of camp life, and pack and organize accordingly. For a family with young kids, that’s the following:

TOILETRIES ◦ Remember the essentials, such as more than enough diapers and wipes. Also include baby-friendly soap, diaper cream, and even a small bathtub. ◦ Don't overlook medicines, remedies, sun protection and first aid supplies.

MISCELLANEOUS ◦ Some items just don’t fit into a category but they’re still important. Bring along outdoor toys (like a slackline) and board books, but if your children are anything like ours, they'll be happy to simply play with the dishes!

FORGETTABLES ◦ Everyone has things they do not want to forget or are prone to forgetting. Make reminders for yourself.

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Our FAVORITE Camping Gear Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle

The right gear can make the difference between a camping disaster and camping heaven. Our curated collection of favorite camping accessories range from essential to luxurious.

Filter your water on the go to keep icky viruses and bacteria from ruining your trip. We love the attached carabiner. $59.95

GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Camper Everything you need to cook your camp meals, in a system that perfectly compacts for easy storage and transport. $109.95

Sierra Designs Frontcountry Bed Duo 35

Yeti Rambler Lowball & GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Cup Making craft cocktails at camp? How about just hot cocoa? Do both in style with the insulated lowball tumbler and the incredibly lightweight Bugaboo cup. Yeti, $19.95 Bugaboo, $8.95

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Big Agnes Chair One This chair is so lightweight and packable, there's no excuse not to bring it along.

It packs down to the size of a travel umbrella and is sturdy enough for adults as well as kids (even when they're leaping into it). $99

After trying this sleeping bag that feels more like slipping between the sheets of a bed, we'll never go back to mummystyle! The duo size lets you cozy up with your camping partner, but it comes in a single bed style as well. $199.95

Sea to Summit Comfort Lite Mat This pad uses high tech air cells to keep you comfy all night, and we love that it self-inflates. $150

Radio Flyer Pathfinder wagon Don't forget a kid and gear transport option!

The Pathfinder hauls camping gear and little campers from car to campsite! We love how it can take a beating. $99.95

Kelty Kids Big Dipper bag Kids stay warmer at night in sleeping bags that fit their size. This Kelty bag comes in several fun prints and patterns and stuffs down quite small. $79

Outside Inside Basecamp Bocce This portable bocce ball set comes in its own carry bag and needs to be in your car for every summer lake trip and camping trip. Additional game options from Outside Inside include kid-safe lawn darts and horseshoes. Bocce set: $41

Petzl Tikkid headlamps Perfectly sized for kids' heads, this Petzl light has a flood light mode ideal for reading in the tent. $24.95

Disc-O-Bed Kid-O-Bunk

Kelty Shade Maker 2 We love that this shade shelter is big enough for the whole family and packs down into a soft-sided carry case with backpack straps. $199.95

A portable camping bunkbed?

Yes, please! The Kid-O-Bunk also converts to two single cots for versatility. Bring it along for hotel and resort stays, too. $269

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FIRST TIME FAMILY CAMPING CONFESSIONS 54 | TWIST

“It seems weird that our spot is right next to the toilets and the road.” my son said.

I discovered that my husband had only put one camping chair in the car because “the rest took up too much room”, leaving everyone else to sit on the ground.

FROM A SELF-PROCLAIMED NOVICE CAMPER

BY TARA CANNON • PINTSIZEPILOT.COM I come from a long line of non-campers. Growing up, camping was never considered a family vacation option. Once my own kids came along and we had finally passed the all-encompassing toddler stage, I began to have this lingering feeling that perhaps I had missed out on something. I started toying with the idea of a family camping trip. Without much experience to go on, I did what any obsessive planner would do: I began researching how to camp. I called upon my camping friends to share with me their best tips and scoured Pinterest for camping checklists.

On our first trip, naturally, mistakes were made, including securing the worst possible campsite in the campground. This poor choice (although it was the only choice in peak camping season) did not go unnoticed by my son, who remarked, “It seems weird that our spot is right next to the toilets and the road.”

The best part was when I discovered that my husband had only put one camping chair in the car because “the rest took up too much room,” leaving everyone else to sit on the ground.

This trip was followed by several more and with each one, we managed to get a little better at it. For those who have yet to try camping with kids, I offer you the chance to learn from our mistakes so that you can set off on the right foot with your crew of happy campers.

FIRST TIME CAMPING MISTAKES NOT TO MAKE Sure, we had to learn a few lessons the hard way, but surprisingly, most die-hard campers have similar tales of woe, ranging from trying to set up tents with missing pieces to failing to start a cozy campfire and even creating a camp 'bathroom' amid a patch of poison oak (yes, really... it's been done, though thankfully not by us).

In almost all cases, making a newbie mistake or two doesn't stop a family from falling in love with camping.

Instead, these cautionary tales just add fodder to those campfire story hours.

That said, if you'd rather enjoy a 'happy camper' experience on your first try, feel free to learn from our mistakes (and others!).

Instead of starting with a week-long trip, try a weekend. Alternatively, do a test run in the backyard.

It’s always nice when you can set up that tent with confidence, not under duress while your campsite neighbors watch in amusement.

This is not the time to procrastinate. Instead of making a last-minute reservation, book your campsite well in advance. Many sites can be booked 4-9 months ahead of time (see tips on page 71), with spaces disappearing within minutes of becoming available. If you happen to miss the boat on this, some campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Know which type your campground takes. Also keep in mind that since campsite reservation fees are relatively low, people do sometimes cancel. Check back frequently for availability.

Instead of using suitcases, pack your camping gear in containers that can perform a double-duty. For instance, a large Rubbermaid bin can be a good place to store dirty shoes outside your tent, and a smaller one can double as a great sink.

Still not sure if you can do this?

There are a number of companies that will rent you gear and completely set up your campsite, down to your crackling fire, tent and all! All you need to do is show up and call for pizza. Inquire at your local camping gear store (such as REI) or with your state park campground system.

Happy camping!

Creating a camping 'bathroom' over a patch of poison ivy? Um, kind of a no-no.

That campsite right next to the public showers is only convenient until ten other families traipse past...at all hours.

Always check to make sure camp fires are actually allowed.

S'mores are kind of a big deal!

Don't assume a campfire will be allowed. Check fire restrictions before you set out on your camping trip.

For many kids, the fire is the best part. Campsite under fire restriction? Don't fret: while not quite the same experience, s’mores still taste delicious when toasted over a BBQ. Instead of getting ambitious for the first night's meal, prepare an easy dish ahead of time, just in case it takes a little longer than expected to set up your campsite.

A camping trip is no time to practice your light packing skills. Pack some extra layers of clothing for every member of the family as even in summer the nights can get chilly. Don't forget light knit gloves!

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EASY CAMPING RECIPES FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS

BY CLAUDIA LAROYE • THETRAVELLINGMOM.CA Camping in the great outdoors is one of life’s great pleasures. Connecting with nature feeds the soul and mind, but what about the stomach? Don’t forgo eating well when you’re in the wild. Cooking outdoors can be so much more than hot dogs on a stick. As fabulous as a wienie roast can be, these mouthwatering recipes promise to excite hungry campers, fill tummies with goodness, and have everyone asking for more.

DUTCH OVEN LASAGNA Who doesn’t want lasagna while camping? You can have vegetarian campfire lasagna that tastes great and is simple to make. If you’d like to add ground beef, cook it ahead of time, then add into each layer.

PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SANDWICH This delicious dinner is an easy, filling meal. Add a salad or fresh-cut veggies for a complete dinner, and don’t forget to pack some tinfoil to wrap the sandwiches.

Ingredients for four servings: 1 tbsp of olive oil 5 cups of pasta sauce (two jars) 12 oz of lasagna noodles (pre-cooked) 3 cups of baby spinach 5 cups of mozzarella cheese

Ingredients: 1 big loaf of French bread ¼ cup of garlic butter, softened 2 cups of cooked onions and peppers 600 grams of roast beef, sliced 500 grams of your choice of cheese (provolone is best)

1. Coat the bottom of the pan with olive oil.

2. Add in a layer of lasagna noodles, layer a half cup of sauce, 1/3 cup of cheese and one cup of spinach.

3. Layer it three times total, finishing with cheese and a sprinkle of oregano if you’ve packed it.

4. Bake over hot coals for thirty minutes or until the noodles are tender enough.

1. Cook onions and peppers over low heat until soft and fragrant. Set aside.

2. Slather the bread with garlic butter and layer with remaining ingredients.

3. Cut the bread into slices.

4. Wrap the sandwich in foil and cook over hot coals for about thirty minutes. It will be done when the cheese is melted and the bread is a little crispy.

BROWN BEARS: Brown Bears are pieces of dough cooked on a stick and then sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. This is a simple, fun treat to make with kids. First, wrap the dough around a stick and cook it over a campfire. Then brush it with a little butter, so the cinnamon will stick to it. Then, roll it in cinnamon sugar for a quick and tasty treat.

PIE IRON PIZZA: Take your pizza oven outdoors with this simple recipe. Grab some slices of Italian bread or English muffins, butter the sides and put them on a pie iron. Add some pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese, then put over the fire to cook until toasted and melted.

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PIGS IN A BLANKET: This is a wienie roast with a twist.

The ingredients are simple: just crescent rolls and a package of hot dogs. Open the crescent roll tube, take out the dough and cut it to size. Next, take the hot dogs and cut them into thirds. Roll each one inside of the dough. You can also roll whole hot dogs into the dough and cook them that way for larger portions.

Wrap crescent rolls in foil, or push the hot dog onto a stick and cook over the fire, turning until all the pastry is nicely browned and cooked evenly. Serve dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard or hot sauce on the side.

Just Go. ONE FAMILY PUSHES PAST THEIR COMFORT ZONE AND LEARNS WHAT ADVENTURE CAMPS ARE ALL ABOUT.

BY CHRIS ‘CHEZ’ CHESAK

ADVENTURE IS ALL ABOUT PUSHING YOURSELF, GETTING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW.

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My wife and I sipped drinks on a sandy beach, watching the wonderful mayhem around us as kids bounced on, around, and sometimes right off the myriad inflatables that populated the five-acre lake. I laughed aloud as I witnessed a tiny little girl strapped into the overhead zip line, flying above the inflatables, headed toward the water. Pointing out the tiny thing out to my wife, we noted that her harness had been pulled so tight over her little limbs that the excess straps flew like streamers behind her. I joked that if there were a gust of wind at all, she’d be blown back up the zip line!

That’s when my wife noticed that the tiny, shrieking little thing was actually our own daughter.

Sylvia, then age six: the safe one, the pleaser and rule-follower. She eschews risk and anything that might even remotely be considered ‘wrong’. She is secure, she is serious, she is safe.

And there she was flying over us, screaming with delight, headed toward a very watery landing.

We were shocked, mouths literally agape. How did this risk-averse little girl suddenly decide to climb a 40-foot steel tower, get strapped into a harness, and fly down a steel cable into a lake? Mind you, we didn’t actually tell her she couldn’t do the zip line. We honestly thought she’d be so terrified of it that she wouldn’t even try.

IF WE HADN’T CHOSEN TO VACATION AT AN ADVENTURE RESORT, [OUR DAUGHTER] WOULDN’T HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE SO BOLD.

Adventure is all about pushing yourself, getting out of your comfort zone to try something new. And Sylvia certainly tried something new alright, and in grand style. In her little mind she looked up at the zip line and just said, "Yeah, I gotta do that." And if we hadn’t chosen to vacation at an adventure resort, she wouldn’t have had that opportunity to be so bold and take that huge developmental step forward.

ACE Adventure Resort is in the thick of West Virginia (there is no easy way to get there, which I find to be part of its charm). While most families wouldn’t consider a place like West Virginia for a family vacation, they certainly should, especially when it comes to adventure resorts. Traditional beach-focused resorts are all about sand and sun, while an adventure resort allows parents and older kids to mountain bike, rock climb,

paddle (whitewater or otherwise), and generally get back out into nature, perhaps recreating the way life used to be before mom and dad had kids.

Meanwhile the smaller kids are all safely ensconced in the kids’ camp, engaging in all manner of crafts, swimming, taking nature walks and playing games.

And resorts like ACE are becoming more and more popular as former single-sport adventure operators expand their offerings. ACE started out purely as a whitewater river outfitter in the 1970s.

They have grown considerably since then, consolidating operations with other local outfitters to now be a 1,500acre facility that offers some 20 different types of activities, from their original (and fantastic) whitewater rafting trips, to mud runs, paintball, caving, catwalk tours under the

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New River Gorge bridge, stand up paddle boarding (both still and whitewater), and many more offerings.

Accommodations run from rustic cabin tents and bunkhouses to fully-equipped log homes, some of which can accommodate up to 16 people... ideal for a multigenerational family group or reunion. For nights when you don’t want to cook, The Lost Paddle pub will keep bellies full and parents happy with local craft brews. This pub also has an extensive and impressive live music schedule.

Our own activities didn’t stop with the lake, as we also took the opportunity to get in some whitewater rafting. This region is known for some epic rivers, the most famous of which is the Class V fall run of the Gauley. But this was a family trip, so we did a calm run on the New River, one that could accommodate our entire crew, ages eight to age 78 (daredevil Sylvia was too young and remained happily back at the kids’ camp). We had an awesome, mellow run under a gorgeous, clear sky, making for a truly memorable day.

The next day, we again checked the little ones into the kids’ camp and took in some guided trail biking, descending from the ridge that ACE rests upon down to the river. There we were able to explore the historic remains of Thurmond. This ghost town, which was fueled by coal money, reached its zenith sometime in the late 1800s, last boasted a population of five people. You read that right: five people.

Back at ACE, part of our group broke off for an impromptu paintball battle with other campers. The day was rounded out by a great meal, s’mores by the fireside, and (after the kids were finally put to bed) some drinks in the hot tub. As family adventures go, ACE provided an experience near perfection.

CAMP FOR EVERY ONE

TERRANEA RESORT RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA

Choose either land or sea adventures at this luxe resort.

You can kayak or stand-up paddleboard among whales, sea lions and dolphins. Surf lessons and tide pool experiences are also offered.

Or you can choose a guided hike, horseback riding, guided bike tours – even falconry demonstrations.

DEERHURST RESORT MUSKOKA, ONTARIO

This southern Ontario lakeside retreat has been helping families get away for more than 100 years. Warm weather activities include canoeing, ATV courses, fishing, a historic steam train, and plenty of activities on the lake itself. This resort doesn’t slow down in the winter either, offering skating, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, fat tire biking, sleighing and maple syrup-making in spring.

ADVENTURES ON THE GORGE LANSING, WEST VIRGINIA

This additional WV option also serves up all the paddling and other adventures the New River Gorge has to offer. Enjoy the view from 851 feet above the river as you sit at the poolside bar, enjoying local music. In addition to rafting, enjoy rock climbing, paddle-boarding on Summerville Lake, the TreeTops Canopy zip-line tour and Timbertrek Adventure Park. Afterward, retire to your well-appointed cabin.

ECHO CANYON RIVER EXPEDITIONS CAÑON CITY, COLORADO

Unlike other adventure resorts that thrive by diversification, Echo Canyon River Expeditions instead focuses on doing what it does best: whitewater rafting. Kids ages four and up can enjoy family-friendly float trips, while teens can join their parents on the rougher stuff in 1,000-foot-deep Royal Gorge.

Accommodations range from luxury cabins to glamping to decidedly rustic camping.

HAWKS CAY RESORT DUCK KEY, FLORIDA

If sun and sea are your family’s thing, then you’d be hardpressed to do better than the upscale Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys. Stand-up paddleboards, jetskis, parasailing, sunset cruises, dolphin encounters, fishing charters, diving, and kiteboarding are some of the oceanic adventures offered here. Kids can also check into the Camp Hawk Environmental Education program.

NORTHERN OUTDOORS THE FORKS, MAINE

Like ACE, Northern Outdoors has expanded into a full-service adventure resort.

Along with rafting, the resort offers ATV trails, team building activities, hiking, fishing, motor touring, moose spotting and more. In the winter, the resort transforms into a snowmobiler’s paradise. Relax after your adventures in the cozy lodge with a pint of their own microbrew.

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FAVORITES

Hotels

Fort Garry, Manitoba

UNIQUE HISTORIC PROPERTIES READY TO TRANSCEND YOUR LODGING EXPERIENCE What defines a landmark hotel? Local legacy steeped in history? Refinement? Impeccable service and storied reputation? All of the above? Some properties around the world are so unique, they transcend the concepts of 'good service' and 'great location' so many of us seek in a destination hotel. The following such properties will transport you to a world apart, be it one of European royalty, Eastern elegance, or North American grit with a generous dash of romance. Enjoy!

TIMBERLINE LODGE, ORGEON

By Tara Canon, PintSizePilot.com

FORT GARRY HOTEL, MANITOBA

By Ethan Gelber, TheTravelWord.com

CHÂTEAU LES CARRASSES , FRANCE

By Katja Gaskell, GlobeTotting.com

SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI, VIETNAM

By Amie O'Shaughnessy, CiaoBambino.com

DROMOLAND CASTLE, IRELAND

By Paige Conner Totaro, AllOverTheMap.net

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OREGON

Timberline Lodge

BY TARA CANON • PINTSIZEPILOT.COM

Just about every summer we pack up the car as a family and hit the highway for a West Coast road trip. While on the Oregon portion of one such trip, we were lucky enough to score a room at Timberline Lodge, a majestic property on the south side of Mount Hood, 60 miles east of Portland. Heralding from another era, we found this National Historic Landmark to be simply a delight to explore both inside and out during our overnight stay.

Timberline Lodge was commissioned in the 1930s as part of President Roosevelt’s Depression-era Works Progress Administration (WPA), involving a series of public projects intended to get Americans back to work. The four-story, 40,000-square-foot building is a locallysourced structure, with timber harvested from neighboring forests and masonry constructed from Mt. Hood boulders (including those used for the hotel’s massive six-sided fireplace). During such austere times, a great effort was made to use recycled materials for the lodge, including turning discarded cedar utility poles into beautiful wood carvings and using recycled metal from railroad tracks for the many elaborate iron gates. The hotel is cheerfully decorated in a Prairie School aesthetic, courtesy of the many skilled local artisans tasked with producing the paintings, mosaics, rugs and draperies that adorn the floors and walls. In keeping with the hotel’s style, rooms include retro touches such as old-school alarm clocks and mock-rotary phones.

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The Timberline Lodge may seem familiar to movie buffs, as the exterior was used to depict the Overlook Hotel in Stanley Kubrick’s classic horror film The Shining.

While originally built as a summer retreat, Timberline Lodge is actually a very popular year-round destination. In fact, the adjoining Timberline Ski Area is renowned for having the longest ski season in North America – sometimes running right to the end of August. Preferred family accommodations include large corner rooms containing a king bed and two twin beds. Kids will love the outdoor pool and hot tub area, the games room, s’mores under the stars, and the complimentary DVD players with movies for loan (hey… it’s old school, right?).

Parents will appreciate the complimentary morning tea and coffee service and the fact that kids under 12 eat free in the main dining room before 6 pm. Don't miss Timberline's famous breakfast buffet as well.

ADDRESS 27500 E Timberline Road, Government Camp, OR 97028 WEB SITE timberlinelodge.com STARTING PRICE $160 US/per night

MANITOBA

The Fort Garry Hotel

BY ETHAN GELBER • THETRAVELWORD.COM

When we turned a corner in downtown Winnipeg, Manitoba, we knew exactly where we were headed. "It looks like a castle!" squealed my six-year-old son. Sure enough, the Fort Garry Hotel strongly resembles New York City's château-style Plaza Hotel, a notable parallel that also covers high levels of service.

Once the tallest building in Winnipeg, the century-old Fort Garry still stands as a striking architectural landmark and National Historic Site of Canada, one of the country's château-esque, five-star grand railway hotels built by its erstwhile railway companies to serve passengers in style.

Strategically positioned one block from the Union Station train hub, the Fort Garry's convenience, prominence and elegance have for decades fittingly made it the go-to haunt for celebrities, including King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (The Queen Mother). This last fact cemented my kids' conviction that they were princes preparing for full royal treatment in their own palace!

Inside, we gaped at the grand, two-story reception foyer, the thrumming nerve center that somehow maintains a stylish sense of calm. From here, visitors are dispatched through a maze of art- and photograph-lined hallways and high-ceilinged lounges to 240 rooms, most of them recently renovated.

Our family of four fit easily into a two-double bed room (not number 202, the supposedly haunted room!), though generous suites are also available. We took in the flatscreen TV, free high-speed internet, plush bed linens and bathroom stocked with quality bath products, but surrendered first to our hunger. The alwayscomplimentary coffee, tea and yummy biscotti delivered to the room were delicious, but we needed more.

ADDRESS 222 Broadway, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0R3 Canada WEB SITE fortgarryhotel.com STARTING PRICE $142 USD/night

Fortunately, back downstairs, three restaurants showcase a regal spread of foods made on-site and almost entirely from scratch. Palm Lounge is the most impressive, open for lunch, dinner and live evening jazz in a rotunda-like room with a gold-trimmed ceiling, three tiers of windows and comfy chairs. The daily morning buffet in the bright Broadway Breakfast Room is arguably the city's best, and hotel guests under age six eat for free. For us at that moment, however, the kid-friendly sandwiches, salads and soups served throughout the day at the Gallery Deli hit the spot just right.

To work off the meal and keep the kids busy, we turned to the hotel's upper floors, site of the family-favorite indoor pool and whirlpool, in addition to a well-equipped fitness center. Also on hand is the excellent full-service Ten Spa, whose large, mosaic-tiled centerpiece is the only co-ed hammam in Canada.

For other adventures, the Fort Garry Hotel is an easy stroll from downtown Winnipeg's top family attractions, including the Manitoba Children’s Museum, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and The Forks historic site and public green space.

As we departed, my 10-year-old son looked back, sighed and said, "It was good to live like kings for a few days."

Amen to that.

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FRANCE

Château Les Carrasses

BY KATJA GASKELL • GLOBETOTTING.COM

Located in one of the sunniest corners in France and surrounded by 60 acres of vineyards is Château Les Carrasses, a 19th-century castle that looks like it belongs on the pages of a Brothers Grimm fairytale. With witch-hat turrets, buttery stone walls and magnificent wooden doors, this grand country house makes for a delightful holiday hideaway.

The château was originally built in 1886, at the height of the Languedoc wine boom. Today, this welcoming French castle offers 28 (soon to be 30) self-catering suites and villas. The suites are positioned within the château’s original structure with bathrooms tucked away in turrets and Juliet balconies overlooking the grounds with the Pyrenees mountains in the distance. The former wine cellars, grape pickers-quarters and stables have been transformed into a mix of two- and three-bedroom villas, and what was once the gardener’s cottage is a now romantic retreat for two.

Now, this may all sound très chic, but is it any good for kids? Fortunately, the answer is a resounding oui! There’s a huge amount of space for kids to roam, whether on foot or on one of the château’s mountain bikes, in addition to a heated infinity pool, a clay tennis court, and places to play volleyball and boules. Visit during July and August and children can take advantage of the bilingual kids’ club.

The Brasserie and bar put a contemporary spin on Mediterranean cuisine, complemented by the best regional wines. The restaurant is not open every day outside of peak seasons but you can self-cater in your state-of-the-art-kitchen. Chefs are also happy to prepare a takeaway meal or picnic, ideal if you manage to drag yourselves away from the confines of the château. You’ll discover plenty to do in the surrounding area, from colorful local markets and medieval towns to the best beaches for kite-surfing.

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At the end of the day, you’ll kick back on your private patio, or in the château’s elegant conservatory, rumored to have been designed by Gustave Eiffel himself with a drink in hand, plotting how you can stay just a few days longer.

ADDRESS Lieu-dit Les Carrasses, Route de Capestang, 34130 Quarante, France WEB SITE lescarrasses.com STARTING PRICE A two-bedroom villa starts at $318 per night in low season and from $590 per night in high season.

EXPERIENCE THE SISTER PROPERTY

Château St Pierre de Serjac WEB SITE

serjac.com This family-friendly Château sits in the Languedoc region of France, not far from the French and Spanish border, making it a great location for families who might be visiting Barcelona and want to escape the crowds and get a little taste of the South of France!

VIETNAM

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

BY AMIE O'SHAUGHNESSY • CIAOBAMBINO.COM

Significant landmark hotels have big expectations behind them, and the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is certainly no exception. What’s remarkable here, and what distinguishes the Metropole in Southeast Asia, is the incredible preservation of its historic North Vietnamese sense of place as the hotel of choice for writers, celebrities and diplomats since it opened in 1901.

Although the property has been thoroughly renovated, the feeling of stepping into another age is palpable in both the French colonial exterior and the original elegant lobby.

Staying at the Metropole is an experiential part of exploring Hanoi, not just a bed for the night or another luxury hotel with great service.

Talk about hotels with history: there’s even a bomb shelter from the Vietnam War found under the bar during the recent renovation, which can be toured with a guide. Be sure and book this well ahead of time. It’s small but fascinating to imagine crowding in here during air raids.

The 354 rooms and suites offer plenty of accommodation shapes and sizes, with different bed configurations and connecting rooms. The Metropole Wing offers colonial finishes like plantation shutters and fans, while the

newer Opera Wing is neoclassical in style and feels more contemporary. Regardless, all rooms have beautiful bathrooms and the latest electronics. There’s also an executive floor with 24-hour butler service and a lounge.

We could not get enough of the Bamboo Bar. This exotic open-air bar and lounge overlooks the pool and the hotel’s old-world interior facade. We loved sitting here for a light lunch in the afternoon and drinks in the evening.

Like everything at the Metropole, the Bamboo Bar inspires guests to simply soak it all in. There’s also an incredible salon in Le Club, where the staff serves tea and hosts a chocolate buffet in the afternoon that is a child’s dream come true.

Breakfast in Le Beaulieu is an East-meets-West buffet and may be one of the best spreads we’ve had anywhere in the world. Dim sum, in-house baked goods worthy of the most discerning French bread lover, fruit, eggs and, of course, pho (the traditional Vietnamese noodle bar) are all extravagantly presented.

There is a decent-sized pool in a lovely courtyard that is key for families who need to escape the motorbike chaos of the streets of Hanoi. There’s also a well-equipped gym and spa offering massages, a hammam and a sauna.

ADDRESS 15 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District, 010000, Vietnam WEB SITE sofitel.com STARTING PRICE $216 US/night

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IRELAND

Dromoland Castle

BY PAIGE CONNER TOTARO • ALLOVERTHEMAP.NET

Dromoland Castle was the ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, kings of Thomond whose lineage goes back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, the only High King of Ireland. There has been a castle on the land since the 11th century.

Dromoland is exactly what you imagine in a castle, minus the moat and drawbridge. The ivy-covered stone walls and crenelated towers from which soldiers defended the castle grounds give Dromoland its imposing exterior.

Swans swim in the placid lake and there’s a falconry just beyond the castle as well.

Kids and adults will be fascinated by a Hawk Walk. At the reserved hour, the falconer arrives at the castle entrance.

He’s an unassuming young man with an encyclopedic knowledge of the behavior and training of falcons, the history of falconry, falconry’s influence on the English language, and just exactly how a falcon hunts, kills and dismembers its prey.

Not into animal dismemberment? How about shooting clay pigeons? Or archery? Or horseback riding? Or fishing? Maybe you’d like a horse to draw your carriage on a tour of the castle grounds by 'pony and trap'?

There are so many things to do on the 400-acre grounds of Dromoland Castle you’ll need several days to experience it all. Or you can choose to just relax in the spa or play a round of golf.

Inside the castle, there are four grand fireplaces, almost always lit for warmth and ambiance in the high-ceilinged great rooms. You may want to practice your royal wave as you float down the grand staircase like a princess.

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For the truly royal experience, you can book a full-staff horse and hound greeting, where every staff member lines up along the driveway upon your arrival. This won’t come cheap, but it will be an experience of a lifetime.

Children are welcome at Dromoland Castle, and they will find appropriately-sized robes, a children’s menu, and a slew of board games in case the majestic hallways, towers and outdoor activities are not enough.

Dromoland is located just 12 miles from the Shannon airport in southwest Ireland, in between Limerick and Galway. It's tucked near the Cliffs of Moher, making the property a great base for exploring some of the most beautiful parts of Ireland.

The family rooms at Dromoland Castle have two queen beds, and an extra bed can be added for an additional fee.

Children under 12 stay free when sharing a room with adults.

PRO TIP: Because the Irish don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, that’s low season for Dromoland and rates are as low as $217 per night. Fly direct to Shannon Airport in southwest Ireland.

ADDRESS Dromoland, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare, V95 ATD3, Ireland WEB SITE dromoland.ie STARTING PRICE $600 US/ per night

photo credit: Brianne Manz

FROM ALASKA'S FRONTIER TO URBAN PARK ADVENTURES

Spotlight

ON NATIONAL PARKS

BOOKING 101

PARK LODGES

ALASKAN PARKS

URBAN HISTORY

Pitch your tent in that perfect national park campsite with our how-to guide to booking at popular parks in peak season.

Elevate your family trip and discover the romance and glamour of the park system's early years with a stay in a historic national park lodge.

Explore the Last Frontier and visit some of America's most isolated and aweinspiring parks, from fjords to gold fields.

Summer school redux: let the national park system be your children's teacher at these urban sites in cities across the nation.

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BY ETHAN GELBER • THETRAVELWORD.COM

EVERY KID IN A PARK, FOR FREE! In early October, as we approached Yosemite National Park, we wondered if entry would be as effortless as described. All we had was a fourth grader in the back seat and a printout of a web registration form. I thought I might need to describe what I was after, as the program I'd heard about had only been around for a year.

No such misfortune! The ranger didn't bat an eyelash as she took the printout, eyeballed our 10-year-old and then handed back an Every Kid in a Park pass. "Welcome to Yosemite!" she proclaimed with a smile as bright and hospitable as those of later rangers who, after glancing at our card, waved us into Joshua Tree, Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest and Zion national parks, several national monuments and more.

An initiative launched by President Obama in September 2015 as part of the build-up to the National Park Service's 100th birthday in 2016, Every Kid in a Park was "created so fourth graders and their families could discover our wildlife, resources, and history for free."

Valid for the 12 months of a kid's fourth-grade year 70 | TWIST

NOTE: Pass does not cover amenity or user fees for activities such as camping, boat launches, transportation or special tours.

(September through August), the program assures complimentary access to all U.S. national parks and federal recreation lands and waters.

And it's great. Watching a child – any child, but especially your own – cavort in nature is an instant reminder of why national parks and monuments are so vitally important.

Then factor in statistics like this: more than 80 percent of American families live in urban areas and far too many lack easy access to safe outdoor spaces. In addition, young people now average more than seven hours a day using electronic media. We all need incentives to get out and smell the sagebrush!

Oh yes, there are other trifling benefits too, like teaching a new generation of children about wildlife and habitat conservation, and the preservation of places of historical and environmental significance. That happens through special teaching materials in classrooms, science labs, lesson plans, and field trips for which guides have been crafted and, once in a park, the kid-favorite Junior Ranger programs. Everykidinapark.gov

RESEARCH & PLANNING: SEVEN MONTHS TO A YEAR IN ADVANCE Create an account Create an account at Recreation.gov, the online booking provider for most national park campsites. (Notable exceptions include Yellowstone National Park, booked 12 months out through a private site.)

Research and Save Research and save potential campgrounds on Recreation.gov. Utilizing the website’s 'Build a Trip' feature allows you to save potential campsites for each trip. You can narrow your search by region, park and campsite amenities.

Booking Windows

HOW AND WHEN TO BOOK YOUR SUMMER CAMPSITE

By Katie Bodell • Trekaroo.com

One of the most idyllic ways to vacation in America’s national parks is by tent, sleeping under a canopy of stars, embraced by a warm sleeping bag and a gentle hug from Mother Nature. But the popularity and sometimes scarcity of national park campsites can make booking your camping vacation a bit less tranquil.

Thanks to the internet, reservations at popular campsites can often be made online, although users must still know how to navigate the system and plan ahead to even attempt to snag a popular location.

Learn about the booking windows for your national park. Most national parks open campsite reservations six months in advance, based on the day of your arrival.

But not all parks are the same; some book 12 months in advance, while others, like Yosemite National Park which is extremely competitive, open five months in advance, on the 15th of each month at exactly 7AM PST.

Research Alternates Make sure to research alternate campsites should your first pick not be available on your booking day.

Get to Know the Site Familiarize yourself with the website. Once a booking window opens, every second is precious. Practice how to add campsites and dates to your cart to help prepare before the clock starts ticking.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR CAMPSITE: 1. Log in to Recreation.gov at least an hour before the booking window opens. This gives you time to troubleshoot computer connection errors, restore passwords, have your credit card information handy, and pull up your saved trip ideas with plenty of time.

2. Check the availability calendar for your preferred campsite. Campers booking long stays may have already removed your choice dates from availability.

Photo by Kevin Parks

3. Check your computer’s clock for accuracy (time.gov is a popular choice) to ensure you can refresh your page at the exact time of booking. Yes, it can come down to this.

4. Secure booking. Once the booking page is live (it will not automatically load, you will need to refresh it), enter your arrival date and nights: every second counts here. If your dates are successful, complete the booking process within 15 minutes. If not, head to your alternate sites and try again. Note: If your advance bookings fail, many parks offer 'firstcome, first-served' campgrounds nearby. Cross your fingers, arrive early, and hope for a successful last-minute camping trip.

Plan Your Dates Plan your dates. Best options for popular parks are mid-week for 2-3 night stays; weekends and holidays will have much steeper competition.

Don't Get Disconnected!

Ensure a high-speed internet connection. If you don’t have one at home, visit a local library to use a fast connection for booking.

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E V O L E W S E PARK LODG

PARADISE INN AT MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK

BY ROB TAYLOR • 2TRAVELDADS.COM

The Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier National Park is an experience all its own. Set on the south side of the tallest peak in Washington State, it’s an unforgettable summer getaway. From the outside it’s clearly a classy place built to welcome hikers and city folk alike, but once you’re inside, it’s a whimsical mountain retreat.

The enormous hand-painted drum lights hanging from the ceiling showcase the many wildflowers found in Mount Rainier’s meadows.

The upright grand piano and the towering grandfather clock look like they might as well have been lifted right out of Geppetto's workshop (think Pinocchio-style carving).

The rooms of the Paradise Inn are not cush. They’re rustic and completely remove you from the technologies of today. King beds, you’ll not find them, doubles and twins replacing them.

Televisions? Look out your window instead, or read a book.

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You don’t need a shower in your room, either (think European hotel-style shared bathrooms). It’s all very fun and beautiful; a very unique lodge experience for Washington State.

The Paradise Inn is typically open from early May to the end of September. This doesn’t mean that the parking lot doesn’t have 20 foot snow drifts, but it means that the park’s crew has dug access to the lodge and they’ve warmed it up and made it perfect for their guests. July and August are the best months to visit for the greatest amount of wildflowers.

The [rooms of the Paradise Inn] are rustic and completely remove you from the technologies of today.

CHATEAU OREGON CAVES The chateau at Oregon Caves National Monument is the most magical log cabin in the woods you’ll ever find. From the setting in the mossy woods of Southern Oregon to the six stories of log cabin charm, it’s a sight to behold on its own. Pair it with trickling streams and an intricate cave system, and you have national park gold.

Built in the 1930s, the Oregon Caves Chateau was a popular spot for people to escape to the hills… and drink and party and listen to jazz in a cave all while staying at a beautiful log cabin hotel. Surviving the Great Depression and getting through the booms and falls of Oregon in the 20th century, the Oregon Caves Chateau doesn’t show the wear and tear of the years. It’s been very well maintained and I’m sure is just as nice today as it was upon opening.

The Chateau is ideal for families due to its unique family suites and fascinating setting. The characteristic national park lodgestyle lobby is equipped with a huge hearth and rustic furniture, and dining on property includes a fullservice restaurant and a perfectly preserved vintage coffee shop.

Take note that the Chateau isn’t open year-round. It opens the first week of May with availability through the end of September.

MANY GLACIER HOTEL Glacier National Park has grown exponentially in popularity in recent years. Always beautiful and a favorite with early mountaineers, the Great Northern Railway constructed several lodges within the park, with the Many Glacier Hotel opening in 1915. It’s in the style of a Swiss Chalet lodge and looks out across Swiftcurrent Lake.

In summer months, many easy hikes depart from the Many Glacier Hotel, as well as boat tours on Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes. When you’re done with a day out in nature, whether you’re a hotel guest or not, a meal in the Ptarmigan Dining Room is a fanciful way to elevate your time in Glacier National Park and recharge for the next day’s adventures.

Highlights of the Many Glacier Hotel include the easy access to some of the best hiking in Glacier National Park, but also the public spaces for relaxation. The Many Glacier Hotel has benches at lake level or a deck where you can enjoy tasty beverages (and balconies if you’re staying there). The lobby is very grand and extends into the corridors of the hotel wings, full of comfortable furniture inviting you to sit and play a few board games.

The Many Glacier Hotel is open to guests from early June to mid/late September. Reservations are required far in advance, so if you know you’re planning on a visit next year, definitely book it early.

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If you've ever fought crowds vying for elbow room at Yellowstone's geysers or sat in traffic in the heart of Yosemite, you know that with great national parks come great...congestion. Not always! If you've already crossed the 'biggies' off your family's bucket list, we'll tell you where to go next. And if you haven't, we'll show you how to avoid the crowds.

ESCAPE THE GRIND

BY AMY WHITLEY • PITSTOPSFORKIDS.COM BRIANNE MANZ • STROLLERINTHECITY.COM KERYN MEANS • WALKINGONTRAVELS.COM

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Photos by Brianne Manz, Claudia Laroye and Canva Stock

IT'S TIME TO HIT THE BEST OF AMERICA'S TOP NATIONAL PARKS...

FOLLOWED BY A FEW YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED

IT'S TIME TO PLAY "BEEN HERE? LET'S GO THERE," NATIONAL PARK STYLE.

CRATER LAKE

Arguably Washington state's most iconic national park, Mount Rainier is known for its volcanic peak, 'milky' white river, and stunning high Alpine wildflowers. To escape the weekenders, embark on the 93-mile Wonderland Trail (or a piece of it). If you've already explored Mount Rainer (psst: have you checked out both visitors' centers? They're on vastly different ends of the park!), it's time to head to...

A sister park to Mount Rainier due it its position on the Ring of Fire, Oregon's only national park (I know, how is that possible?) centers around a stunning caldera born of volcanic activity. Crater Lake's deep blue color comes from its great depth and clarity, and nearby, hiking and camping opportunities abound. Stay at the historic Crater Lake Lodge, or settle further afield in quaint Ashland, Oregon.

YELLOWSTONE

GRAND TETON

Ah, the Mothership: Teddy Roosevelt often gets the credit, but America's first national park was actually designated by President Grant in 1872. If you've already ohh'ed and ahh'ed over Yellowsone's iconic geysers, dipped into the Firehole River on a summer's day, and enjoyed its 'Little Grand Canyon', where the Yellowstone River cuts dramatically through the park, it may be time to head to...

Grand Teton National Park, one of the most underestimated parks in the western system, sits in Yellowstone's shadow. Worth visiting in its own right, beautiful Grand Teton is home to a string of mountain lakes overlooking the stunning Teton range. If pristine String Lake is crowded, head out on foot, taking the trail to nearby Leigh Lake or Jenny Lake. This is cowboy country, so be sure to plan a day in nearby Jackson, to shop, dine, and allow the the Jackson Hole rodeo to immerse you in the culture.

MOUNT RAINIER

YOSEMITE Certainly, Yosemite is one of the crown jewels in the national park system, and for good reason. But if you've already glimpsed Half Dome's tunnel view and Instagram'ed Bridal Falls, you can head to the less crowded side of the park via Tuolumne Meadows. Hike to Sunrise Lake and beyond, even ending at the iconic Mist Trail on a three-day backpacking trip, if your family is so inspired.

SEQUOIA If you've 'done' Yosemite and think you've therefore done it all, check out Sequoia National Park, next door. Known for its towering giant Sequoia trees, this park (and adjacent Kings Canyon) offers up views from Moro Rock and caving at Crystal Cave as well.

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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

GRAND CANYON

JOSHUA TREE

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in America, but most visitors drive Cades Cove and hike the same wellworn trails. Head to Greenbrier for a river trail filled with butterflies and a lost village almost entirely erased from existence, and then head to...

Think you know Grand Canyon National Park? After you've taken in the jaw-dropping views of the canyon and Colorado River, embark on the Bright Angel Trail with older kids, or explore the South Rim by bicycle (and tag-along trailer). If your crew is hankering for more geological goodness, they may also enjoy...

SHENANDOAH

BADLANDS

North of the Smokies you will find Shenandoah National Park runnig along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. This park shows off wetlands, waterfalls and rocky peaks, but the best way to view it all is on Skyline Drive. If you are planning a southern road trip, this is the detour you want to make.

This Southern California national park can get crowded in the spring and fall, thanks to the excellent rock climbing opportunities. But this arid park of yucca trees (yes, the ones that look like they belong in a Dr. Seuess book), Desert Tortoises and cacti houses fantastic campgrounds for families, as well.

DEATH VALLEY

Badlands National Park, in the heart of South Dakota, may seem like a long way from Arizona, but its rock formations have been called the 'miniature Grand Canyon'. Budding geologists and paleontologists alike will go nuts for the Door Trail and Window Trail hikes and the ancient signs of life dotting the Fossil Exhibit Trail.

Done it all and seen it all in Joshua Tree? Head east toward Nevada to explore Death Valley National Park (though not in the summer, when temperatures soar). Death Valley attracts with geothermal springs and otherworldly hikes (your kids will love pretending they're on the surface of Mars).

ZION

ARCHES

A favorite national park of many, Zion's narrow canyon is cut by the majestic Virgin River and some of the park system's most dramatic hikes (Angel's Landing anyone?).

To beat the crowds, we applaud Zion's innovative shuttle system (and it's free, parents!) and urge families to consider the off-season at this Utah park. If you've seen all there is to see...

There's a reason Arches National Park's Delicate Arch has been photographed more times than anyone can count; once under its shadow, this natural wonder is awe-inspiring. This park can get toasty in the summer months, so be sure to plan some downtime in nearby Moab for some R&R. If you've 'done' Arches, expand your horizons in...

MESA VERDE

CAPITOL REEF/ CANYONLANDS

Head to Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado. Home to the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people for over 700 years, from A.D. 600 to A.D. 1300, the park protects over 4,000 known archeological sites (including a staggering 600 cliff dwellings), most of which are open for viewing and exploring. Book a tour to make the most of this experience!

Capital Reef and Canyonlands both have the beauty of Arches, but not always the crowds. Canyonlands highlights include the Needles, the remote canyons of the Maze and the Native American rock paintings in Horseshoe Canyon. Capitol Reef shows off gold sandstone and white sandstone domes. Make sure you don't miss Cathedral Valley up north.

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D L I W ALASKAN

ADVENTURE Exploring the parks of the last frontier

BY ERIN KIRKLAND • AKONTHEGO.COM

Two rusty baggage wagons sit at one end of a narrow steel bridge connecting people to the tiny town of McCarthy, Alaska. Only foot traffic is permitted, which means my family and I have to strategically load packs, hiking boots and a small cooler so nothing slides off during the roll to the other side. In five minutes, we've crossed an isthmus between modern-day Alaska and a bygone age on our way to four days of historical wandering. Already, we're feeling the zing of adventure.

Most vacationeers to Alaska want to see national parks, and places like Glacier Bay and Denali boast thousands of visitors each year thanks to a thriving cruise industry and easy access via ships or optional land tours. But the 49th state is actually home to eight national parks and preserves, many of which are remote, rugged, and off the radar for many people. But if you’ve got the time and an independent spirit, these Alaska national parks will pique your interest. They may not have modern visitor centers, gift shops, or paved roads, but each possesses a Last Frontier story to take home and share.

(Photo below) Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark is a former copper ore community. Today's visitors are able to tour the restored townsite and hike nearby trails leading to glaciers and former mines.; (Above) The shorelines of Kenai Fjords National Park are a rocky example of Alaska's rugged grandeur; Kayaking is a popular way to explore Kenai Fjords National Park and a number of outfitters offer family-friendly options.

McCarthy and Kennecott Mines National Historical Landmark, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Located at the end of a 65-mile dirt road that has a story itself, the communities of McCarthy and Kennecott are small parts of the nation’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias. At 13.2 million acres, Wrangell-St. Elias is the size of Yellowstone and Yosemite National Parks – and Switzerland – combined. Most of the park is inaccessible except by helicopter or 'bush' plane (small, nimble aircraft with equally-nimble pilots), but the McCarthy-Kennecott unit is one area visitors can access through a long day’s drive from Anchorage or Valdez.

Kids who visit are party to a no-frills mindset from the moment they cross the footbridge toward McCarthy to tour the Kennecott Mill townsite, home to around 500 people during its heyday as a productive copper ore source between 1911 and 1937.

At Kennecott, the National Park Service and a handful of longtime concessionaires take over teachable moments.

The Kennecott National Historical Landmark visitor center is where kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet, and mom and dad can find maps, schedules for presentations, and the best hiking trails to explore this unique area. Climb up and up toward Jumbo or Bonanza Mines, a strenuous hike meant for hardy kids and parents, or take the wandering trail out to Root Glacier, where a two-mile hike ends at the Root’s 'toe'.

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Back down the road in McCarthy (a shuttle bus transits visitors back and forth for a small fee), stop at the McCarthy-Kennecott Historical Museum. This tiny building, painted in the signature colors of red with white trim is filled with interesting memorabilia of the Kennecott mining years, when McCarthy was known as the place to play (sometimes to the detriment of workers' reputations) after a hard week of work. It is here that you'll learn why Kennicott the glacier is spelled with an 'I' and Kennecott the mill town was spelled with an 'e'. Pick up a walking tour map of the area while you're there to find little nooks and crannies of historical artifacts and sites between McCarthy and Kennecott. Note: Typical summer season attractions and park services are available Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward Where mountains, ice, and the Pacific Ocean all meet in one fabulous collection of flora and fauna, Kenai Fjords National Park is an easy two-hour drive south of Anchorage. Rich in resources, the park features 40 glaciers flowing from far-off Harding Icefield into Resurrection Bay, where day cruise passengers and kayakers ogle at calving ice and humpback whales.

Established in 1980, the park is one of the newer additions to Alaska’s list, and at 1,047 square miles, one of the smaller ones as well.

Most visitors to Kenai Fjords National Park focus on the day cruises around Resurrection Bay, but to truly understand the relationship between mountains and sea, a deeper exploration is warranted.

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Kenai Fjords National Park has but one official campground, located at Exit Glacier, and it is tentonly. A few beachside campsites are available for multi-day kayak groups, so most people wanting to enjoy more than a day trip tend to stay in one of Seward’s hotels, lodges or vacation rentals.

Stop by the park visitor center near the small boat harbor in Seward, just north of downtown. Pick up a map and plan the approach for your visit, taking into account there is but one road into the park, an 11-mile stretch of pavement leading to Exit Glacier, made famous to the world when President Obama visited in 2016.

Exit Glacier can be accessed for views via the Exit Glacier Nature Center and can be experienced by taking one of the more difficult trails leading from the paved nature trail loop. The Harding Icefield Trail is a spectacular day hike that begins on the valley floor before winding through cottonwood and alder forests, heather-filled meadows and eventually climbing above tree line to a breath-taking view of the icefield. At just over eight miles round trip, this is not an easy hike, but families who make it to the top are rewarded with stunning views of a river of ancient ice amidst towering mountain peaks. Note: Kenai Fjords National Park is home to a thriving black and brown bear population, so heed all park ranger advice for avoiding any bear-human interactions as you hike this beautiful area.

If a water-based park visit sounds appealing, but a day cruise with a lot of other people does not, consider a kayak trip with local guides specializing in paddling this unique environment. From a few hours to a few days, kayaking Resurrection Bay’s nooks and crannies is a fantastic way to see Alaska’s daily nature drama up close. Whales are a daily sight in the bay, especially during the early weeks of summer when food sources are plentiful.

Watch for seals, orca, mountain goats, and hundreds of seasonal sea birds as well; the park is bursting with life between May and September.

URBAN NATIONAL PARKS that are filled with history!

BY KATIE BODELL TREKAROO.COM

Seeing the Statue of Liberty while visiting NYC had seemed like the appropriate thing to do, but also a bit cliché. My patriotism had waned these past few years of hateful rhetoric and political absurdity; I didn’t want to experience another forced pomp and circumstance.

But standing under Lady Liberty’s shadow, I couldn’t help but smile at the beauty of our nation: a nation of immigrants, hemmed in together with a common hope in humanity. Visiting this national monument changed both my attitude and my perspective on our country. Historic monuments and sites across the U.S., even in our biggest cities, offer a glimpse into our nation’s past and a chance for this generation to reconnect with the noble ideals that once bound us.

While visiting these urban cities across the nation, don’t miss these amazing national parks and historic sites.

NEW YORK CITY

PHILADELPHIA Philadelphia’s centrality to the founding of our nation makes it a hub for American Revolution history and historic sites. Independence National Historic Park is home to dozens of historic buildings, museums, and artifacts. While you might be tempted to start your tour by checking out the crack in the Liberty Bell or stepping inside Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed, instead start your visit at the Independence Visitor Center where you can secure timed-entry tickets to popular exhibits, chat with park rangers, join a walking tour, or get your bearings to navigate this four-squareblock historic park.

Additional national parks sites in Philly include: Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial

New York City’s concentrated urban core is home to a wealth of national historic parks, sites, recreation areas and monuments. Visiting the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island National Monument is an absolute must on a first-timer’s visit to NYC; families can book ferries onboard Statue Cruises, the only tour operator that gets visitors onto Liberty Island, departing from Manhattan’s Battery Park or from New Jersey’s Liberty State Park.

While in NYC, junior ranger badges can also be earned at a slew of other national sites including: Federal Hall National Memorial (our country’s first capitol building) The Lower East Side Tenement National Historic Site (a fabulous follow up to the immigration themes learned at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island) Governors Island National Monument Hamilton Grange National Memorial (a must for fans of Lin Manuel Miranda’s pop-culture sensation Hamilton) Saint Paul’s Church National Historic Site The African Burial Ground National Monument Gateway National Recreation Area General Grant National Memorial Castle Clinton National Monument Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace.

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BOSTON

SAN FRANCISCO

The voices of the American Revolution first spoke their dissent in Boston, and it is here that families can step back in time to discover America’s fight for freedom.

From Faneuil Hall to the Paul Revere House, to learning about the Boston Tea Party in the Old South Meeting House or exploring the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor, Boston National Historic Park offers an assortment of historic sites, hands-on activities, and ranger-led tours for all ages along the Freedom Trail.

On Beacon Hill, don’t miss the Boston African American National Historic Site that helps to educate today’s youth on the Abolition Movement, the Underground Railroad, and the Civil War.

Across the country in California, San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge is on every traveler’s must-see list.

Many families don’t know that Golden Gate National Recreation Area, 18,500 acres surrounding the bridge in three different counties, is both operated by the National Park Service and is filled with unique historical monuments covering wars, discrimination, and immigration history. From exploring historic forts and batteries to getting locked up on the infamous Alcatraz Island or visiting the Angel Island Immigration Station, the area features nearly 1500 historic structures, as well as five lighthouses and a UNESCO site to explore.

Supplement your history lesson by visiting: San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park Marin Headlands Muir Woods National Historic Site

AFRICAN BURIAL GROUND NATIONAL MONUMENT NEW YORK CITY

BY ETHAN GELBER THETRAVELWORD.COM

To cross the threshold of New York City's African Burial Ground National Monument (ABGNM) is to enter hallowed ground. I felt it first when I visited the stirring outdoor memorial after its dedication in 2007, and then again when I returned to walk through the sensitively-designed visitor center, which opened in 2010.

Surrounded by the tall buildings of Lower Manhattan, ABGNM is the "oldest and largest known excavated burial ground in North America for both free and enslaved Africans" and the first "dedicated

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to Africans of early New York and Americans of African descent."

Although approximately 15,000 men, women and children are believed to be buried in the original 6.6-acre 'Negros Buriel Ground' (sic, per a 1755 map), it was their rediscovery in 1991 and the subsequent exhumation of the remains of 419 bodies that brought the past and present together.

The visitor center expertly juxtaposes the hardship of life in 17th- and 18th-century New York City for early African-American citizens with the 20th-century struggle by their descendants for the respectful treatment, reinterment and remembrance of the disturbed bodies.

Especially today, as Americans grapple to understand and confront the history and impact of racism and racial division in the country, ABGNM is an important, affecting place to contemplate.

More Info: www.nps.gov/afbg

TRAVEL LEMONS THE REAL FACE OF FAMILY TRAVEL

BY KERYN MEANS • WALKINGONTRAVELS.COM

"I don't want to go," my youngest son declared. I'm sorry... what? I stood in my bedroom, surrounded by luggage and piles of clothes, wondering how in the world I would cram all of it into one medium suitcase and two carry-on bags.

My two boys and I were headed to Ireland for two and a half weeks for an extended spring break. I was doing my least favorite part of travel, packing.

It was another reminder that no matter how much I think I'm raising my boys the same, they are different people. I can expose my sons to new foods, different countries, languages and people, but one will always be more of a homebody like his dad, and the other will always have the adventurous spirit of his mom. Does this mean I stop traveling with him? Nope.

Now my youngest had decided to announce he didn't want to go on the trip. A trip that we had been saving for all year, I had been planning for months, and which was on the verge of collapsing thanks to a freak spring blizzard.

This wasn't happening. Was it me? Did I wreck travel for him somehow? I don't know. I thought I was raising him right. He flew on an airplane at seven weeks old; his brother didn't fly until he was three months old and loved a good adventure.

I just might have to adjust my expectations. After I had kids I did slow down, but after my youngest came along, I knew I had to be a better planner. He had to know where he was sleeping every night. He had to feel stable and know 'the plan'. No matter how Type A I thought I was, he was a little bit more. If I was going to rock his little world and bring him all over it, then he wanted to have the itinerary that told him where we were going next. And I can live with that, as long as he meets me halfway.

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