Our Travels Archives - Page 18 of 23

Kid Friendly Cruising on Carnival #cruisingcarnival

August 21, 2014 by Melissa

Being miles and miles off shore on a cruise ship is one of the most exciting things to happen for my kids. They absolutely love cruising and have been lucky enough to have experienced it twice now. I get asked a lot if cruising is truly a kid friendly vacation. My answer is an emphatic YES when it comes to Carnival Cruise Lines. Your kids will never be bored when it comes to #CruisingCarnival.

Camp Carnival

We were able to register them online so their information was on hand and name tags were ready. When we first boarded we had to hunt done the locations of camp so that when they were ready to go they knew where to go. Shaun was able to come and go as he pleased due to his age. That isn’t the rule but something we allowed him to do. Shae had to be checked in and out by an adult or Sabreena. This is a level of security that I appreciated. Even on the last day the camp counselors were checking out Sign and Sail cards as ID. You can never be too sure!

Camp Carnival is specially designed with crafts, activities and games for different age groups: 2 to 5 years, 6 to 8 years, and 9 to 11 years. The daily schedules are available each night before we were able to check off all the things the kids wanted to participate in the next day. This let the whole family plan their day around lounging, activities, spa treatments or even exploring the ports. Shae spent lots of her time working on crafts, playing board games and and painting. Shaun of course spent lots of time playing video game and EPIC rounds of dodge ball. I was never worried about them having a good time while at camp. Carnival also offers a Night Owls segment. From 10-12pm they had special activities and movies for the kids so the adults could plan time at the casino, clubs or just alone on the Serenity Lounge.

Games and Chess

This was one of the first things we noticed when coming aboard. Rob and Shaun like to play chess and little did we know Shae knew how to play too. The spent lots of time challenging each other and other kids with a game or two. Regular chess in the Library was a great way for Rob and Shae to spend a little quality time together too.

Video Arcade

We tried to stay as unplugged as possible while cruising but the flashing lights and high tech graphics drew the kids in for one night only.

Mini Golf

With 360 degree views of gorgeous blue ocean there was no wonder mini golf is a popular activity for the kids. The wind can make it a little tricky sometimes but it also made it super fun when trying to race against it.

Circle C and Club O2

Hangout spots for the older kids too are needed when they need some downtime away from the family. Carnival organizes movies, club nights and activities for the big kids too.

Punchliner Comedy Club

The comedy club makes cruising truly family friendly by offering swear word free sets. Shae joined us for one show before heading off to her nightly activities.

Waterworks

This waterpark overlooking the ocean is a site to be seen. Kids can splash and slide while parents lounge on the sidelines.
Pool & Deck Parties

The Lido Deck is the party hub especially when there are Hairy Chest contests to watch and pools to jump in. The cruise director and their staff along with a DJ keep the people moving, laughing and entertained with goofy games and lively music.

Stage Shows

Shae was called up on stage during the magic show but was so shy she couldn’t participate. During the next show and Hasbro, The Game Show she insisted on sitting farther away from the stage just so she could watch.

The list goes on and on with activities the kids and families can participate in each day. Don’t forget about the excursions available when you arrive at each Port of Call too. Those adventure are once in a lifetime. Know one thing, your kids will never be bored on a Carnival Cruise.

Summer at Longwood Gardens

August 18, 2014 by Melissa

Almost 2 years ago I was invited to be a Star Blogger at Longwood Gardens. Since then we’ve used our complimentary membership a handful of times to take in the gorgeous displays and nature scenes. With over 1000 acres of meticulously manicured gardens, fountain areas, a greenhouse, woodlands and exhibits it’s definitely a must see attraction in the Philadelphia area not just during the summer but any season really.

The history of Longwood Gardens runs deep and it what makes this botanical garden so special.

The kids and I recently visited for a relaxing day out. We went to see the new Meadow Garden, an 86 acre span of native wildflowers with walking trails, butterflies and pavilions.

The Conservatory is an exploration in art using nature. This stately greenhouse is home to multiple exhibits and displays throughout the year including the iconic Christmas display in the main conservatory. The dramatic palette of colors is tended to throughout the day and changes with the seasons. The waterlily display is open till October.

The Indoor Children’s Garden is a pint sized collection of fountains, sculptures and interactive displays but it lacks in size it makes up for in imagination.

The Trial Garden this year is full of striking and colorful Zinnias, Cannas, Clemantis, Dahlias, Salvias and more. This garden is used to see what can be cultivated successfully for future displays and exhibits. Zinnias scored high so I’ll be eagerly waiting to see more of them in coming years.

If you’re ever in the Philadelphia/Brandywine Valley Area stop at Longwood Gardens is highly recommended.

Six Flags Great Adventure is Action Packed in August

July 28, 2014 by Melissa

Six Flags is the worlds biggest and best amusement park corporations with locations in the US, Canada and Mexico. With 18 locations consisting of roller coasters, water rides, concert venues, animal habitats and community events Six Flags has something for everyone. We’re lucky enough to have 2 within driving distance; Washington, DC and Jackson, NJ. Six Flags Great Adventure of Jackson, NJ is jam packed with activities for August.

There’s a little something for everyone. We’ll be going to celebrate Shae’s birthday, now to find the best day amid all the fun going on.

Reality Dance Jam Tour – August 1

Six Flags Great Adventure and Reality Dance present The Jam Tour featuring social media sensations Taylor Caniff, Aaron Carpenter, Dillon Rupp, Sammy Wilkinson and more August 1 at the Plymouth Rock Assurance® Arena. The concert lasts throughout the day, and artist meet-and-greets are available with a VIP ticket. This private event requires a special concert ticket along with theme park admission or a Season Pass.

Fright Fest Zombie Auditions – August 2, 3, 15, 16 (times vary)

More than 200 scare-actors and support staff are needed to fill a variety of positions from the undead who roam the midways, to terror trail performers and technicians. No prior acting or scare experience is necessary. Six Flags seeks individuals with a passion for Halloween and scaring. Auditions include several fun acting exercises in a group setting. If interested, please complete the pre-employment application prior to attending an audition date, or scheduling an interview for technician positions, at www.sixflagsjobs.com.

Feed the Children Day – August 9

Six Flags Great Adventure and Feed the Children team up to raise money to end childhood hunger. The Feed the Children tent inside the park will provide information on how to help one of the world’s leading anti-hunger organizations. In addition, Six Flags will donate $.50 of every full-price ticket purchased at the front gate August 9, and all coins donated into the Main Street Fountain throughout the season, to Feed the Children. Guests can join the Six Flags entertainment team for a fun-filled Kids’ Dance Hour in the park filled with family-friendly games to celebrate the event. Special tickets are also available online at www.sixflags.com

Caribbean Concert – August 10

TriniFly Promotions and Six Flags present the Caribbean Concert Series featuring performances by today’s favorite Caribbean and Urban artists including Maxi Priest, Barrington Levy, Morgan Heritage, Elephant Man and more. Levy continues to sell out shows around the world and will perform his popular hits such as “Teach the Youths” and “Here I Come.” The concert begins at 6 p.m. at the Plymouth Rock Assurance® Arena. A special concert ticket is required with theme park admission or Season Pass.

Jesse McCartney in Concert – August 15

Jesse McCartney will perform in concert in the park’s intimate Showcase Theater August 15 at 8 p.m. McCartney was a member of pop boy band Dream Street and later went on to become a solo artist. He also played Adam Chandler Jr. on the ABC soap opera All My Children. He is most known for his chart-topping hit songs “Leavin,” “Superbad,” and “Beautiful Soul.” An additional concert ticket is required with theme park admission or Season Pass.

National Roller Coaster Day – August 16

National Roller Coaster Day is a day for all coaster fans to come together for the sake of the thrill. On Saturday, August 16, Six Flags Great Adventure will celebrate National Roller Coaster Day with its world-class record-breaking collection of coasters, including Kingda Ka, El Toro and Nitro. The park will offer special ride time and interactive social media events. Additional details will be available on www.sixflags.com and the park’s Facebook page.

RunAround Concert – August 23

RunAround, a Pop Experience, takes place in the Plymouth Rock Assurance® Arena from 4 to 9 p.m. August 23 as part of the MIKE AND IKE® ZOURS® Six Flags Summer Concert series. Pop artists and social media sensations such as Jake Miller, Nick Tangorra, Jacob Whitesides and more are set to perform their biggest hits. A separate concert ticket is required with theme park admission or Season Pass. All RunAround guests will check in at the RunAround kiosk to receive tickets to the park along with a schedule and map.

2015 New Attraction Announcement – August 28

Six Flags Great Adventure and its sister parks throughout North America will announce exciting plans for the 2015 season. Information, photos and video will be available at www.sixflags.com/greatadventure

Sara Evans in Concert – August 31

Sara Evans will perform in concert August 31 at the Plymouth Rock Assurance® arena as part of Salute the Troops event sponsored by Nash 94.7. Evans is an American country singer known for her hits “No Place That Far,” Born to Fly” and “Suds in the Bucket.” The concert starts at 7 p.m. and is free with theme park admission or Season Pass.

Fun Facts about #CruisingCarnival

July 13, 2014 by Melissa

Carnival Cruise Lines have been in the business of FUN for over 40 years. Based in Miami it’s ships tour the globe with cruises to Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, the Caribbean and places in between.

A Carnival Cruise Ship is like a city at sea. There are enough amenities to keep even the busiest person occupied and entertained for days. You all know about the endless eating options, live shows, casinos and excursions but there’s more the the Fun Ships that you may not have known about.

Fun Facts about #CruisingCarnival

Carnival Cruise Lines is the most popular cruise line with more than 24 ships operating 3 to 18 day voyages
A Carnival Cruise is truly a family friendly vacation with activities for kids age 2 to teen
Some of the most loved staff are the Stewards. They are the ones that create those cute towel animals (Towel Animal classes are available, check with Guest Relations)
Schedule a “Behind the Fun” tour where you can see the bridge, engine control room and backstage area to get an up close and personal look at the operations
During Signature Dining, if you can’t decide between 2 entrees or appetizers just order both
In one week Carnival Fantasy guests will consume 36,000 slices of bacon, mmmmmm bacon
The staff to guest ratio is sometimes as low at 1:3 making for a truly personable, attentive sailing
The on-board pools are filled daily with filtered salt water from the sea
The Serenity Adult Retreat is the perfect kid-free zone for ultimate relaxation and peace
The on-board fitness centers are included voyage with the exception of instructor led classes and spa treatments
Leave the ball gowns, tuxedos and fancy shoes at home. It’s called a FUN SHIP for a reason

We’re out into the Atlantic Ocean right on our way to days filled with smiles, sun, memories and FUN. Wish you were here.

This Family is #CruisingCarnival

July 7, 2014 by Melissa

In just a few shorts days we’re heading out for our summer family vacation thanks to Carnival Cruiselines. We aren’t strangers to the cruise but nowhere near the cruise enthusiasts I want to be. Our last cruise was 4 years ago and the kids still talk about it and have been begging to go again since then. Timing couldn’t have been better either; Sabreena graduated high school a few weeks ago. Rob and I will be celebrating our 13th wedding anniversary while at sea and Shae turns 7 a couple weeks after we get back. It’s celebration time all around.

The Carnival Fantasy leaves out of Charleston, South Carolina and headed to the Caribbean. We’ll be taking the 9 hour drive to South Carolina overnight, seeing some of the pretty and historical sights of Charleston then boarding the 855 foot boat for non-stop fun over the next 8 days.

Our Ports of Call while #CruisingCarnival

Grand Turk-Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, may be small, but it’s packed with scenic punch and historic charm. Carnival® cruises to Grand Turk deliver you to an enchanted island outpost dotted with old windmills, grassy trails, and picture-perfect beaches. Discover an oasis of green set in aquamarine seas ringed by a pristine coral reef and the steep wall of the continental shelf with cruises to Grand Turk. Swim in the sparkling turquoise seas off Governor’s Beach. Snorkel or dive the coral reefs fringing Grand Turk.

Half Moon Cay, the Bahamas-Fulfill your tropical island fantasy on Carnival cruises to Half Moon Cay, the Bahamas. Sway in the sweet Bahamian breezes to the rhythms of calypso and find romance on this private island paradise. Cruises to Half Moon Cay deliver you to an idyllic sun-drenched island hideaway where you can play in the turquoise seas, ride horseback on powdery white sand, and encounter silky stingrays. Sail, swim or snorkel the shallow blue-green Atlantic. Ride horseback along the sea’s edge on Half Moon Cay cruises.

Nassau, the Bahamas-Blessed by balmy breezes and jumping to a bouncy calypso beat, Carnival cruises to Nassau, Bahamas promise sizzling fun in the sun. The historic and cultural heart of The Bahamas is one of the world’s most popular cruise ship ports—one million travelers board cruises to Nassau annually.

The Fantasy is filled with so much to do during the 8 days at sea. The kids will enjoy Club Carnival, Hasbro the game show, video games in the arcade, putt putt golf and of course Waterworks water park. Rob and I have the casino, nightclubs, Punchliner Comedy club, the piano bar, Serenity Adult Retreat and spa services to rival the best in the country.

As a family we’ll have lots of time to relax by the pool, enjoy casual dining with 24 hour soft-serve ice cream and pizza and do a little shopping while sailing.

Follow along all week while we share our experiences, photos from the Caribbean and memories we make while #cruisingcarnival.

10 Essentials to Pack for a Cruise Vacation

July 2, 2014 by Melissa

Your bags are packed. You’ve followed the guidelines on dress code and think you understand what it means by formal attire. You have just enough shoes for any occasion without being too many. You’ve secured all of your toiletries in mini bags to avoid spillage. Now you’re ready to go. But are you really? We’re so used to having everything handy in our daily life that we don’t think about packing them for vacation. Take a peek at these 10 essentials to bring on a cruise vacation to see what else you should pack for your next adventure.

Reusable/refillable water bottle so you stay hydrated without running back and forth to Lido Deck.
Travel Charger Surge Protector with USB Ports to plug in/charge computers, ereaders, ipods, curling irons, etc

Beach bag or tote to carry camera, book, beach towels and sunscreen on the ship or to your excursions
Nightlight, when those curtains are drawn and the sun has set it can get mighty dark in those rooms
Small wallet/purse or Lanyard for key cards & identification
Over the Door Pocket Organizer
to hold cosmetics, toiletries, brushes, curling irons and medications instead of clogging up small counters

Lightweight or mesh bag to keep dirty laundry separate on the way home.
Medication and not just prescriptions. Think about upset stomachs, headaches, allergy relief and even cough meds just in case.
Extra Sunscreen, that tropical sun is fierce so bring along more than you think you’ll need.
Notepad and pen to leave notes for your traveling companions, children or room steward.
It’s no fun overpaying for something on vacation that you already have at home. Packing a few extra essentials will keep your budget on track so you can spend money on the fun things like fruity drinks with umbrellas or slot machines.

luggage photo provided via Flickr by Thor

That Time I Met Bruce Willis

June 16, 2014 by Melissa

The elevator doors opened and the room took my breath away. In front of me was a room full of A-List Celebrities dressed to the nines, camera ready because I was prepared with mine. I took a few steps to the face that first caught my attention, Bruce Willis. He was gorgeous, cold and rigid but perfectly handsome and rugged at the same time. Madame Tussauds outdid themselves with this one.
Bruce Willis may have been the first “celebrity sighting” of the day but he was far from the last. Rob and I spent the next couple of hours investigating the figures housed at Madame Tussauds New York location. We posed and took “photobombed” selfies with the figures we loved the most.

Madame Tussauds is rich in history but also has it’s finger on the pulse of pop culture and glamour. In the London display you’ll find original pieces from Madame Tussaud herself like aristocratic death masks and artifacts from the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Alongside you’ll find current and sports figures, The Royal Family Bollywood stars and of course the most famous stars of stage and screen.
I’ll be honest, I was a little creeped out at first. The first room is overwhelming with all the eyes looking around. Once you embrace your curiosity you’re all in. Rob and I were amazed as some the details, life-like was an understatement. We sent this picture to Shaun and he went nuts thinking we really got the chance to meet “The Rock”. Dwayne Johnson is a sexy man, the wax figure definitely did him justice.

The many floors of figures spanned many genres, rock and roll, government, Horror(we didn’t go in there), NYC including images from 911 and of course pop culture. Tony Bennett was another favorite of mine as well as Regis and Kelly even though Regis is no longer with the show.

Admission is a bit pricey but if you buy your tickets in advance you can get a 20% discount, this is how we paid for ours. I’d make this a definite stop if your touring NYC and Times Square. If you aren’t in the NYC area don’t worry there are almost 20 locations worldwide to see the magic that is Madame Tussauds.

ConKerr Cancer Pajama Party Recap

May 6, 2014 by Melissa

Sometimes it takes just a small gesture to make a big impact.

In 2002 a young man, Ryan was diagnosed with cancer. Throughout 6years of treatments, recurrences, surgery and therapy his mother stood by him to create some light in his world. This came in the form of a homemade pillowcase. This separated his pillow from the rest in the hospital and made his stays a bit more inviting and warm. This sparked the start of ConKerr Cancer, and their efforts to bring a smile to every child’s face that is going through similar battles with cancer and other illness.

This past March was the 2nd ConKerr Cancer Pajama Party. We were invited to be Ambassadors to share the news of the event and bring awareness of how simple it is to do something for a child in need. We attended the party at the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia. From the start I never would’ve guessed this event was only in its 2nd year. The participation and attendance was amazing.

The community rallied together to donate their time and money for this cause. Throughout the evening 1000 guest were invited to explore the museum, enjoy local food and drinks, sew pillowcases, mingle with local celebrities and athletes, bid on auctions and play with animals from the Philadelphia Zoo.

Sabreena was the first to sew a pillowcase with the help of some volunteers.

We thoroughly enjoyed the event and were proud to be a part of such a phenomenal organization.

Learn more about ConKerr Cancer and how you can donate or volunteer.

#MacysProm Event at King of Prussia Mall

April 10, 2014 by Melissa

We are in the height of prom season, at least it is in most other high school senior households. I’ve just been informed that Sabreena isn’t going. No real reason except she doesn’t feel like spending so much money for one night. I tell her she’s going to regret it but I can’t force her to go. That didn’t stop us from first attending the #MacysProm and trying on dresses.

King of Prussia Mall, one of the best malls in the country, own Macy’s store hosted the #MacysProm runway show this past Saturday. We had the best seats in the house so we got the best shots of every dress that was strutted down the runway. I didn’t know what to expect but DJ Arun was playing awesome music and the models were walking to the tunes of Jackson Harris. It’s been many years since my prom, in fact I went to 5 of them. Each of them in very different dresses, from Black Mermaid to Teal ballgown to Glitzy White to Sexy Red. This year the trends seem to just as diverse.

Macy’s says Sherbet colors are hot this year. Personally I think they always are especially for prom. It’s a fresh bight burst of color that is eye catching and shows up well in photos.

Something Blue was a collection of, you guessed it, blue hued gowns and social dresses. My favorite of the day is the short tulle and sequin navy dress. Did you catch the little serenade by Jackson Harris, so sweet.

Every girl is pretty in pink. The flowing layers stood out on the runway. I especially loved the organza weaving on the bodice of the long pale pink gown.

Sabreena’s favorite collection was Vintage and Lace. She’s got an old soul when it comes to clothing and accessories. Every formal dress she’s ever purchased has been lace of some sort.

After the show we headed to the dress department for a little dress-up play ourselves. Sabreena loved this beaded dress. It was similar to one that was on the runway. If only it came in a deeper hue she might’ve been talked into going to prom this year.

Ritz-Carlton, Central Park #NYC #weekendgetaway

March 18, 2014 by Melissa

A couple of weeks back we were invited into NYC for Mr. Peabody and Sherman screening and press day. This post isn’t about that. This is about our time walking and experiencing the city and hotel and food. I love staying in hotels. I love messing up both beds, leaving my shoes in the middle of the floor and channel surfing like my life depended on it. We stayed at the Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park. Did you just OOOOH? I did when I saw the accommodations the first time. I was excited to stay at a “fancy” hotel. I expected cream of the crop, top- notch customer service from the second I walked up to the moment I checked out.

That didn’t happen. I will start off with saying that the hotel was booked solid for the press junket. The enormous trunks of camera equipment were taking up space in the small lobby, doormen weren’t paying attention to guests but instead truck drivers uploading MORE enormous trunks of media equipment, guestz were standing around waiting for their rooms.

image courtesy of Ritz-Carlton

This was problem number one. We arrived at 3:00, check in time and were told our room wasn’t ready. The story started about being super busy, rooms booked solid, production company being very demanding, blah blah. Rob and I are pretty easy going so we decided to take to Central Park while it was still sunny. There was snow and ice on the ground but walking through the park was nice. We held hands, which we never do and even managed to snap this pic of ourselves.

We walked and walked and ended up walking through the Upper West Side looking at gorgeous architecture and crazy cute French Bulldogs (are French Bulldogs the dog of rich New Yorkers). We ventured to Amsterdam to Broadway and back to the hotel only to find out our room was still not ready.

At this point we were freezing and annoyed. After some complaining we were let into the 2nd floor Club Lounge to warm up and grab a drink and some food. This was right up Rob’s alley. He’s loves perks and in his book shrimp cocktail, cookies and Mary Janes for free is a HUGE perk. This made up for delay in our room being ready. We are easy to please. I made a bit of an ass of myself though. We were seated next to a window overlooking Central Park and I leaned on the window sill to look at something passing by and somehow dislodged a panel on the wall. The staff comes rushing over and I’m clueless as to what’s going on and why they are touching me and scooting my legs over trying to fix it.

We got message about a 1/2 hour later that our room was ready and we headed up. At this point I sit on the beds and chairs checking for comfort, examine the bathroom for cleanliness and see all the goodies I can’t consume in the mini fridge.

One look at the massive, luxurious tub and I knew it needed to be filled with bubbles, hot water and me. I looked around for bubble bath and could find any. A quick trip to Duane Reade fixed that problem. Robes are my weakness. Even if it’s just for a few minutes I must wear it. I have a plush robe at home but hotel room robes are special.

The room had a terrible view but was furnished beautifully. The beds were very cozy and covered in silky-smooth crisp white sheets. Rob claims it was more comfortable than our Sleep Number. I think we should invest in a feather bed at home.

The bathroom was spacious, spotless and brightly lit. I did end up finding body wash in the shower that could’ve doubled as bubble bath, DUH.

Rob ventured out for ice only to find out we had to get it delivered from someone in the kitchen. It took way too long to arrive for something not being cooked.

Rob wanted to take advantage of beautiful Auden Bistro and Bar for dinner. The staff was very attentive. Our server must’ve noticed my face when I looked at the menu because he came over and said the kitchen will make whatever I wanted even if it wasn’t on the menu. It was late and I really just wanted a good burger, that’s what we both ordered. I also ordered their signature AUDEN FRITES WITH TRUFFLE AND PECORINO. YUM. I love truffle fries and I wish I had more room in my belly to eat them all. The burger was AH-MAZ-ING. It’s so hard to mess up a burger but this was perfect. Juicy, seasoned, hot and with great bread. The restaurant was very dimly lit otherwise I’d have 13 pictures of just my burger to share.

Staying at the Ritz Carlton New York, Central Park wasn’t everything I expected. That name suggests a taste of grandeur and sophistication from the top to the bottom. It fell flat on some levels of attentiveness and communication but the accommodations felt like an oasis full of comfort and luxury.

This is NOT a sponsored post. We were not required nor compensated to share our experience about the hotel.

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