Travel Archives - Page 6 of 21 - Globetrotting Mommy

Staycation Family Fun at …

March 7, 2017 By admin

It isn’t every day I get to really play tourist in my own city so when Conrad New York invited my family for a downtown staycation, I jumped at the chance. If you are looking for a family friendly all-suite hotel in the heart of NYC’s new downtown, Conrad New York is a fantastic choice.

Conrad New York is a great choice for families visiting New York City.

Many tourists think they need to stay near Times Square but I like to recommend families stay in more residential areas to get a better feel for the “real” New York while avoiding the craziness of midtown. Located just steps away from Brookfield Place, and nearby the Freedom Tower and 9/11 memorial, Westfield World Trade Center shopping center (aka the Oculus) and historic Battery Park, Conrad New York was an ideal home base for our two-day trip.

We live nearby so we arrived by taxi and quickly checked in. The 15-story lobby is just stunning and the signature 10-story custom artwork, Sol Lewitt’s Loopy Doopy, really mesmerized us all as the colors changed when the lights shifted.

Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

The hotel features a sleek modern design with stylish decor, a grand marble staircase and awesome Hudson River views – I particularly loved the open air spaces that allow guests to take in the art and views from every floor. Just the place to stay inspired…

We settled into our suite (one of 463) which was stylishly decorated with modern art and a soothing color palate. My daughter had her own sleeping area in the living area while my husband and I claimed the master bedroom. In addition to the comfortable beds (and plush feather pillows!), there were closets upon closets, an incredibly spacious bathroom, a separate oversized walk-in rainfall shower, a desk area and chairs for relaxing.

Our stylish suite at Conrad New York. Staycation family fun at Conrad New York.

My daughter immediately fell in love with Hudson, a stuffed bull mascot who was awaiting her arrival.

Our first stop was a visit to The Rink at Brookfield Place where we were greeted by Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov who manage the rink.

Staycation, New York with kids, Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

My daughter and I enjoyed some time together on the ice and then she had a private lesson. The rink isn’t too large making it easy to keep track of your kids and balancing props for young children are available. Talk about a rink with a view. Such a gorgeous backdrop, right? If you’re lucky, you might catch an Ice Skate with Olympic Greats performance.

Skating at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

Conrad New York offers hotel packages that include ice skating lessons here – definitely a unique perk for an NYC hotel. The ice rink is housed outside Brookfield Place all winter but during the other seasons, you can often find cool art exhibits and other fun pop-up events.

We went back to our room and were quickly greeted with a fresh fruit plate and drinks. I have no idea how the hotel staff read our minds but we were hungry and thirsty so this hit the spot.

Post ice skating snack at Conrad New York.

The weather was gorgeous so we decided to explore outside after a quick pit stop at the hotel’s gift shop. I usually expect touristy things from a hotel shop but this one was nicely curated with specialty NYC themed books (for adults and kids), toys and other trendy items. The friendly guy working there started talking photography with my husband so my daughter and I could happily browse.

Be sure to check out the great gift shop at Conrad New York.

For lunch, we stopped at Hudson Eats, the family friendly food hall upstairs at Brookfield Place, which features a variety of upscale quick serve restaurants and a huge seating area with waterfront views. From sushi, bagels, pizza and sandwiches to salads, tacos, burgers and cupcakes, everyone in the family can find something to eat. I almost always order a Num Pang sandwich while my daughter and husband usually grab a burger, grilled cheese, pizza or sushi.

Downtown NYC has a lot of sights that most tourists never see. I highly suggest the walk from Brookfield Place to Battery Park which is along the Battery Park City Esplanade. There are no cars along the paved promenade making it very easy to roam with kids and you will spot interesting sights (Statue of Liberty!), lookout points, grassy spots and great playgrounds along the way…

Battery Park City Esplanade is a favorite spot for families to explore. Staycation Fun at Conrad New York.

Battery Park is full of adventures for tourists and locals alike and if you have an afternoon or full day, I highly recommend you visit the Statue of Liberty, ride the gorgeous Seaglass Carousel or take a sail aboard the Staten Island Ferry.

We stopped by the Cool Globes art exhibit just at the top of Battery Park to check out the amazing oversized globes on display.

Checking out the Cool Globes. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York.

Then we headed back home to the hotel with a stop at the West Thames Park. Love these stunning Freedom Tower views.

Downtown New York City has a variety of playgrounds. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York.

After a quick change, we headed back over to Brookfield Place for dinner. There are always fun art exhibits going on in the gorgeous palm tree filled glass atrium and we got to see the famed Luminaries display which features hundred of changing lights that coordinate to holiday songs. If you are in the area over the winter holidays, be sure to check it out.

Luminaries at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

We had a delicious dinner at Beaubourg in Le District and we were so happy we could just walk home after our long day. If you love French cuisine, Le District is a gourmand’s haven filled with restaurants and shops selling everything from meats and veggies to pastries and French candy.

Le District in Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

I really love having a suite when we travel since my daughter usually goes to bed around 8 pm and I like to stay up later. It was so nice that our Conrad New York suite allowed my daughter to fall asleep while my husband could stay up late without having to be quiet or keep the room dark.

My daughter loved having her own space at Conrad New York.

After a great night’s sleep, my daughter and I enjoyed lounging around reading while my husband checked out the in-room Nespresso coffee machine. We had a nice relaxing morning and headed to our 10 am brunch reservation at Atrio in the hotel’s lobby. Of course, our new pal Hudson joined us.

Young travelers receive a stuffed Conrad bull at Conrad, New York.

Young travelers receive a stuffed “Hudson the bull” at Conrad New York.

We chose the breakfast buffet which was loaded with pastries, bagels, and yogurt parfaits along with eggs, bacon, potatoes and other breakfast items. The restaurant features river views behind sparkly “curtains” that mesmerized my daughter and Hudson. In addition to weekend brunch, Atrio also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an Instagram-worthy wall of wine.

Atrio at the Conrad New York features a stylish dining room with river views.

We spent the rest of our day checking out the nearby attractions like the Regal Battery Park movie theater (which you can enter from the hotel!), department stores (hi Saks), restaurants (including Danny Meyer signature spots) and the shiny new Oculus which houses some amazing retailers, eateries and the newest Eataly (think everything yummy from Italy under one roof).

After thoroughly exhausting ourselves in a good way, we headed back to Conrad New York to grab our bags and say goodbye.

Thanks for a great staycation at Conrad, New York

If you want a pampering family friendly hotel stay with a great location to explore downtown, NYC, I highly recommend Conrad New York.

Have you ever stayed downtown? Tell me your favorite attractions in the comments below.

A very special thanks to Conrad New York for providing accommodations, breakfast and skating lessons. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

20 Things to Know Before …

March 2, 2017 By admin

If you’re looking for a magical Disney vacation that won’t leave you exhausted from walking around all day, taking a Disney Cruise is sure to please. After cruising with a variety of family members on multiple Disney ships (most recently aboard the reimagined Disney Wonder), I highly recommend a sailing getaway if you’re traveling with grandparents and extended family (think: few decisions, little walking, and activities for all!). If you’re considering a cruise or if you’ve already got one planned (lucky duck!), here are 20 things to know before taking a Disney Cruise.

20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise

1 – Advance prep is a lifesaver. Be sure to fill out all the pre-registration materials online before your trip. Advance reservations can be made between 120-75 days before your trip depending on status. Register children for the youth clubs, select your dining time (the early seating books up quickly!), book excursions, adult dinner reservations, spa appointments and request any special services in advance. If you’re traveling with princess lovers, be sure to pre-book meet and greets and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique salon appointments ahead of time. You can also book these reservations once you are onboard but availability may be limited.

2 – Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app before you leave home. The app works on the ship’s guest WiFi so you can view maps, menus, activities like movies and showtimes and send text messages to other people using the app.

A small Disney themed roller board makes a great day bag while your luggage arrives. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

A small Disney themed roller board like these from American Tourister makes a great day bag while your luggage arrives. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

3 – What to pack? Be sure to check the weather before you pack and remember that public areas are highly air conditioned and evening temps can get quite chilly. Swimwear, cover-ups, shorts and t-shirts are great for day. For evening, attire ranges from sundresses to dressy dresses depending on the cruise length and dinner schedule. If your luggage is being delivered directly to your stateroom, be sure to pack a day bag with swimwear, sunscreen and an outfit or two. It takes a few hours for bags to arrive and they don’t all come at once so plan ahead. If you’re worried about motion sickness, bring a patch, wristband or medication.

4 – Disney Cruises are very baby (6 months+) and toddler friendly. Staff will provide any necessities and babysitting is available (at a charge). Note that children must be toilet trained to use the pools and consider bringing a baby carrier as elevators can be crowded. FYI, there is a storage space for strollers if you choose to not keep them in your stateroom.

5 – All Disney Cruises have a mandatory security drill before setting sail. This is a relatively quick and painless event (you don’t have to wear safety jackets) but all family members must be present.

A Verandah Stateroom is a great option for families. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

6 – Room selection is key so pick the best option given your family size, special needs (like naps, cribs, accessibility) and budget. Staterooms range in size but there is plenty of closet and drawer storage as well as room for toiletries in the bathroom. Children will love the beds that fold out of the wall and some cabins have a sliding curtain to make a separate kids “room.” Remember, your suitcases will stay in your room so collapsable or nesting options are best.

7 – Get ready to eat. On a cruise you can order as many items as you can eat. Want three appetizers and two desserts every night? Go right ahead. In addition to the signature restaurants (like Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, Tritan’s and Tiana’s Place) and adult only options like Remy and Palo (on certain ships) there are plenty of buffet options as well as snacks and desserts around the clock. Don’t miss the ice cream machines, Mickey ice cream bars, Mickey waffles and complimentary room service available 24-hours a day which is a great perk when traveling with kids. The chefs and waitstaff will prepare special meals for guests with allergies so be sure to let your servers know if you have special dietary needs.

Pelican Plunge on Castaway Cay is a popular spot for kids. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

8 – Get off the ship and explore at ports and Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. You can book day excursions or just kick back and relax on your own. Castaway Cay has wonderful recreational options for adults and children (and its own kids club!) so be sure to get out and play. Note: kids can only disembark with their parents unless you make other arrangements onboard.

Kids and adults will love watching Disney movies out on the pool deck. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

9 – Plan to see a Disney movie or two. Current and classic films are shown throughout the day in signature movie theaters or alfresco by the pool. In addition, you can watch hundreds of Disney and Pixar movies in your stateroom.

Don’t miss the red carpet arrivals before The Golden Mickeys. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

10 – Expect some great evening entertainment. Disney Cruises are known for their amazing entertainment and some of the onboard evening shows are as mesmerizing as a Broadway musical. The entire family will love signature shows like The Golden Mickeys and Disney Dreams as well as new productions like Frozen, a Musical Spectacular (just saw this and it was spectacular) and the upcoming Beauty and the Beast (November, 2017). Shows vary by ship so check online before booking.

Toy Story toys and a slinky slide are favorites at Disney’s Oceaneer Club.

11 – Kids will love Disney’s youth clubs. With separate clubs for all ages (babies 6 months + to 17), parents can relax while kids play and make new friends. The clubs are complimentary and reservations do not need to be made in advance. There are an array of scheduled activities as well as character events, games and parties. Enrolled kids wear a waterproof ID wristband that allows staff to locate them quickly via GPS.

12 – Expect to stay up late. Depending on the ship’s itinerary, there will be at least one late night deck party. Our last cruise featured a 10 pm Pirate Party complete with characters, dancing, movies and fireworks. This was a tough one since my daughter crashes early but if you have night owls, this will be a big hit.

13 – Bring some costumes! Everyone dresses up for the aforementioned Pirate Party (think pirates, princesses, mermaids, etc.) and little girls are frequently seen in princess gowns. In addition, the ships feature seasonal holiday parties and Disney themed events (think Frozen, Marvel and Star Wars. Don’t worry, you can buy costumes as well as ears, clothing, autograph books in the ship’s gift shops.

Prepare to have a splashing good time on a Disney Cruise. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

14 – Pack your swimwear. The main pools vary in size depending on the ship but you will also find adult only pools as well as kid’s pools and splash areas for tots. If you love water slides, be sure to seek out the famed Aqua Duck on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy and AquaDunk on the Disney Magic.

The stateroom doors are metal so guests love to decorate them. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise

15 – Don’t forget the door bling. The cabin doors are metal and the latest trend aboard Disney Cruises is personalized door magnets. This is a fun way to commemorate your trip and it definitely makes finding your room a lot easier. I ordered mine from Etsy but you can certainly DIY if you’re feeling crafty.

Be sure to take character photos. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

16 – Photo-ops are everywhere so bring your camera! From characters and princesses, oversized portholes, Instagram worthy desserts, gorgeous beaches and scenic lookout points, you will want to capture it all. If you want formal family photos, there are professional photographers aboard every ship.

Kids will love finding nightly towel animals at turndown. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise

17 – Expect some surprises! I don’t want to spill all the beans but you will be in for some magical moments like surprise towel animals and magic tricks.

Fish Extender participants leave surprise gifts in personalized hangers outside the stateroom. 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise.

18 – If you want extra surprises and don’t mind a little pre-trip prep work, you may want to participate in a Fish Extender program which allows guests to swap treats and gifts during their cruise. You can read more about this here, here and here.

19 – If you’re using the ship’s departure luggage program (available for certain airlines) your luggage will be picked up at 10 pm the night before you depart. Be sure to leave out travel clothing and toiletries as well as anything you need during your flight. This is a great perk as you leave the ship unencumbered and don’t have to worry about your luggage until you land at your final destination.

20 – You can book a future cruise at a discounted rate before your cruise ends. Be sure to ask about this during your trip as you will likely want to sail again.

Have you taken a Disney Cruise? Tell me your favorite memory below.

My most recent Disney Cruise took place as part of the 2017 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration #DisneySMMC. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Where to go: Caribbean …

February 2, 2017 By admin

Do warm temperatures, fancy pools, watersports, scenic beaches and tropical beverages sound good to you and your kids? Same here! If you’re looking for a quick family-friendly winter getaway filled with thrilling activities, you can’t go wrong with a Caribbean adventure.

Where to go: Caribbean Adventure for Families

The Caribbean Tourism Organization has named 2017 the Year of Adventure in the Caribbean with a cutesy A-Z list of fun activities below but first I’ll share some of my favorite family friendly Caribbean resorts. Click the links to read my reviews…

Nickelodeon Resort, Punta Cana – Think luxe accommodations, awesome cuisine, character entertainment, sports galore and nonstop water-park fun.

Beaches Turks and Caicos – Your kids will beg to stay and play with the Sesame Street gang at this famed all-inclusive resort where you pay one price for everything (including watersports!).

Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, Bahamas – This mega-resort is sure to please adventurous kids of all ages with aquatic adventures, animal encounters, top cuisine and pampering accommodations.

THE ‘A to Z’ OF ADVENTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN

Awaken your love of sea creatures by swimming with dolphins in Anguilla

Buckle up for go-kart racing in Barbados

Climb Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica

Dive among the famous shipwrecks in Grenada

Explore the historical forts of Curaçao

Fall in love with nature discovering rare birds in St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Gaze at the beauty of Angel Falls in the Venezuelan rainforest

Hike the Waitikubuli Trail in Dominica

Immerse yourself in the local French culture of St. Martin

Jump Up at Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago

Kayak with eco-tours in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Learn to “cook like a local” in Haiti

Mountain bike around Martinique

Nourish your senses with the sights and sounds of nightlife in Sint Maarten

Open your mind to new experiences in Cuba

Parasail by day; party by night in the British Virgin Islands

Quench your thirst for discovery with cave tubing in Belize

Reach new heights while sky diving in St. Kitts & Nevis

Surf’s up! “Hang 10” along Rincón Beach on the northwest coast of Puerto Rico

Take to the skies with an aerial tour of Guyana

Unleash the explorer in you with a visit to a drive-in volcano in Saint Lucia

Visit Stingray City in the Cayman Islands

Water sports, water sports, water sports throughout the Islands of The Bahamas

Xmarks the spot! Learn stories of hidden pirate treasures in Antigua & Barbuda

YOLO! Climb The Quill in St. Eustatius or visit the Montserrat Observatory to erupt your fascination with volcanoes

Zipline through tropical rainforests in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Do you have a favorite Caribbean island? Tell me below in the comments.

If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Vacation Tips For Staying Safe …

December 23, 2016 By admin

Accidents are no fun but they’re even worse when they happen on a weekend or during a vacation. In my little family alone, we’ve made urgent care visits aboard cruise ships, on tropical vacations, at Disney World and here at home in New York City for ear infections, stomach bugs and broken bones so I speak from experience when I say urgent care centers have become a true necessity for parents.

VACATION TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

I recently met with Neal Shipley, Regional Medical Director, Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care to talk about holiday safety tips and how to know when to head over to an urgent care center and today I’m sharing some of these tips. With 30+ urgent care locations in the metropolitan NYC area, Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care facilities are a great resource for families visiting family or friends in the NYC area this holiday season.

Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care centers allow patients to check-in online or just walk in 365 days a year.

VACATION TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

BEFORE LEAVING FOR HOLIDAY TRAVELS

– Check the weather at your travel destination and pack accordingly

– Schedule activities in advance if possible to avoid unnecessary stress

– Locate specialty gear like snowsuits for sledding and helmets for ice skating

– Look up the nearest pediatric ER and Urgent Care facilities

HOLIDAY TRAVEL PACKING TIPS

No matter how you’ll be traveling this holiday season be sure to bring along the following items:

– Ziploc bags for motion sickness

– Prescription medicines and epipens

– Thermometer and childrens ibuprofen

– Basic first aid kit and ice packs

– Pediatrician contact information

– Safety ID bracelets listing allergies

– Special blankets or stuffed animals

– Entertainment for kids and adults (books, games, etc.)

– Snacks and drinks

– Car seats if you’re renting a car

– Travel documents

– Cell phone chargers

HOLIDAY TRAVEL ROAD TRIPS

If you are driving this vacation season be sure to follow these guidelines – never drink and drive, wear seat belts at all times and be aware of your surroundings, including changes in weather or traffic patterns. Children under age 12 should always sit in the back seat in and and size appropriate safety restraints.

– For long car trips make sure you pack these emergency items:

– First-aid supplies

– Blankets, gloves hats

– Flashlight with spare batteries

– Flares, road-side reflective device

– A shovel and ice-scrapper

– Sand, salt or cat litter for traction

– Tire changing equipment

HOLIDAY TRAVEL BY PLANE

If you’re flying this holiday season be sure to book seats well in advance so you can sit together. Airports are especially crowded around the holidays so leave plenty of time to get to the airport and go through security. Be sure to wear easy to remove shoes (unless you have PRECheck) and be sure to put all medicine and jewelry in your carry-on-baggage. If you’re traveling with young kids, bring a change of clothes and some lightweight blankets.

SAFETY AT YOUR DESTINATION

If you’re traveling with young kids, be sure to ask the hotel staff to baby-proof your room before you arrive. If you’ll be staying with family or at an air bb, make sure tree is in a safe place (away from fireplace, etc), cover all electrical outlets, and make sure all cleaning supplies and medicines are out of reach. Seek immediate medical attention for burns or ingestion of poisons.

DECORATING DO’S

Decorations are gorgeous but be sure to keep kids away from sharp decorations, ornaments and candles when traveling. If you plan to decorate your hotel room or Airbnb, make sure you use a proper ladder or step stool and only use “fire resistant” materials. Lastly, keep kids (and pets) away from holiday plants like Mistletoe and Holly which can cause harm when ingested. Seek immediate medical attention for sprains or fractures, head injuries and uncontrollable bleeding.

HOLIDAY TOY HAZARDS

Toys play a big role in the holiday season but they resulted in 185,000 emergency room visits last year so be sure to match your gift to children’s ages and abilities. Avoid anything with small parts for babies and toddlers and be sure to give helmets if you’re buying a child a bike or scooter. Seek immediate medical attention for bad bike or scooter accidents and accidental toy ingestion.

Just one trip on a cobblestone path can lead to a broken elbow, one of the most common childhood injuries.

STAYING SAFE ON VACATION

Visiting the Metro NYC area means a lot of walking so be sure to bring comfortable shoes for kids and adults. A stroller is a must if you’re visiting with children under 5 and be sure to carry hand sanitizer as subways and doors are full of germs.

Everyone in New York City wears gloves, scarfs and hats in winter and you should too. Be careful walking around as it is easy to trip while you admire the sights and there are a lot of uneven sidewalks and cobblestoned areas. Hold onto handrails going up and down subway steps and always sit or hold on to the subway poles when riding the subway. In addition, NYC can streets get very slippery when it snows so be sure your shoes have some traction.

New York City has some amazing ice rinks so be sure to bring extra gloves, warm clothes and helmets if you’ll be skating.

Playing outside in the snow and sledding are a favorite winter activity in the metro NYC area but be sure to check children’s shoes, socks and gloves to be sure they are dry to avoid frostbite and hypothermia. Always carry extra socks and gloves and come inside if kids complain of any freezing-burning or tingling sensations.

If you or your child has a food allergy, always carry an epipen and make sure to verify multiple times that restaurant orders are safe to eat.

TIPS TO REDUCE HOLIDAY STRESS

Traveling during the holidays can cause a lot of stress for kids and adults. To manage, try not to over commit to too many activities, make sure everyone gets enough sleep, build in some time for exercise and relaxation and get help if you feel you need it.

It may seem like a lot of prep work but if emergency strikes, you’ll be happy to be prepared. Happy holidays!

Thank you to Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care for sponsoring this post. As always, all opinions are my own.If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

6 Great NYC Shows for the …

December 6, 2016 By admin

New York City is one of the most magical places to spend the holidays. While most visitors are busy checking out the bedazzled store windows and ice skating under the big tree, one of my favorite family friendly activities is taking in a great show. This year, I’m sharing some of my favorite holiday picks for everyone on your list. Show tickets make great holiday gift ideas, especially for those people who have it all. Book soon and enjoy because many of these are in town for a limited holiday run…

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season

These shows are all family friendly but I’ve categorized them by family members I think would especially enjoy each one.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Waitress is the perfect feel good Broadway musical for the holiday season.

BFF DATE: Waitress the Musical

Grab your besties and go see this Broadway love story that highlights relationships, friendships and baking. The acting, singing, and choreography are all fabulous and the characters truly come alive on stage. You’ll fall in love with the storyline and show’s heroine as you watch the show’s twists and turns. Best of all, little mini pies are sold at intermission. What more do you need for a night out with the girls?

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – That Golden Girls Show!

SISTER DATE: That Golden Girls Show

If you grew up in the 80’s, That Golden Girls Show will not disappoint. This is the perfect outing to take your sister (aunt, mom or grandma) or invite the whole family. I was wondering if it would be distracting to see a puppet show with the puppeteers on stage but turns out, their unique personalities just added to the adorableness of the show. You’ll laugh at the old jokes and antiquated references and will leave humming the “Thank You For Being a Friend” theme song. This off-broadway show is in the lively Union Square neighborhood so you can check out the famed gift market or farmer’s market before or after. Playing now through December 31, 2016.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Fiddler on the Roof

MOM DATE: Fiddler on the Roof

My mom and I have a tradition of seeing a new Broadway classic every year and this year we saw the newest incarnation of Fiddler on the Roof. The themes in Fiddler on the Roof are timeless, the dancing is AMAZING and the songs will keep you humming for weeks. The show is closing on December 31, 2016 so if you haven’t seen it yet, the holiday season is the perfect chance.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – The Illusionists – Turn of The Century.

HUSBAND DATE: The Illusionists – Turn of the Century

If your husband doesn’t like Broadway musicals (I know, I know), The Illusionists is the perfect Broadway theater date night for the holidays. My husband and I were absolutely amazed by the optical illusions and magical performances that took place in The Palace Theater, the same theater where Harry Houdini once performed. From beds of nails, knife throwing, and card tricks to comedy acts and classic performances (yes they cut a woman in half!), every act was better than the next. Be sure to have some unique things in your purse in case you get called on stage by The Clairvoyants. This is a great family show for ages 6 and up. Now through January 1, 2017.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Peter and The Wolf at The Guggenheim Museum.

COUSINS DATE: Peter and the Wolf at the Guggenheim Museum

I’ve gone to sooooo many kids shows since becoming a mom and some are enjoyable for parents too and some aren’t. Lucky for me, Seeing Peter and The Wolf narrated by Isaac Mizrachi at The Guggenheim Museum was great fun for all. Mizrachi steals the show with his humorous storytelling and each character has their own instrumental pairing so the music really helps kids follow along. This show is a perfect choice to see with cousins and then you can explore the museum afterward. There are three remaining shows on December 9, 10 and 11, 2016.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Pip’s Island

KIDDIE PLAY DATE: Pip’s Island

I took my daughter and her pal on an after school adventure to Pip’s Island and they gave it a 9 and a 10! I still can’t explain this interactive show but think Willy Wonka meets a magical tree house with snow, bubbles, fog and mystical characters minus the candy. Parents go along too so be warned there is a crazy fast slide and no photos allowed. It’s perfect for kids 5-10 and near Chelsea piers, the High Line and art galleries making it a great weekend adventure. Check it out now through January 8, 2017.

Have you seen any of these shows? Tell me below in the comments.

I received media tickets to some of these shows for review purposes but all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Road Trips With Kids – 6 …

November 18, 2016 By admin

‘Tis the season for holiday road trips so today I’m sharing some of my favorite must haves for road trips with kids.

Road Trips With Kids – 6 Must Haves

I’m hungry…

No matter how long or short the ride, you know kids will want a drink or snack within 30 minutes of leaving home. Be sure to pack everything in spill-proof containers like Drink in the Box and Snack in the Box or prepare to spend some time with your trusty dustbuster. For snacks, squeezy pouches and individually wrapped snack bars are great options along with fresh fruit and non-crumbly snacks like nuts and cheese sticks.

Road tripping with kids - be sure to bring entertainment for the whole gang. Family Travel. Globetrotting Mommy

Road trips with kids – be sure to bring entertainment for the whole gang.

I’m bored…

Do you hate hearing this as much as I do? Prepare for trips by bringing along age appropriate entertainment for kids (and grown ups too). For tiny tots, audible CDs like Curious George and soft toys are great. For small kids, hand held toys like this adorable Rubik’s Junior Bear are great options. For school age children, I recommend Mad Libs, Highlights Magazines or other activity books, large print books, tablets like the Amazon Fire Kids Edition Tablet which comes in its own kid-proof case and gaming devices like the Nintendo 3DS which will keep kids quietly entertained for hours! It is always fun to play family friendly games along the way so bring along some cards and travel friendly games to play in the back seat like Hangman and Twizmo! Words.

I made a mess…

Wipes and ziplocs are a parent’s best friends so bring lots and lots. Be sure to pack some extra outfits and if your kids get carsick, be sure they have a few bags or a sturdy container nearby.

Roadtripping with kids. The mifold Grab and Go will easily let you fit three kids along in the backseat.

Road trips with kids. The mifold Grab and Go will easily let you fit three kids along in the backseat.

I want my friends to come…

Road tripping with friends? I just tested out the new mifold Grab and Go Booster Seat and I was amazed how easy it was to use. Simply place it on the seat, adjust the sides according to the child’s size (age 4 to 12), slide the seatbelt strap thru the base and over the lap and secure the shoulder strap at the child’s shoulder. Sounds involved but it takes less than a minute. Best of all, it folds in half making it super easy to throw in a tote for taxi rides, carpools or traveling.

I have to go to the bathroom…

Even though my daughter has been potty trained for years, I still keep a 2-in-1 Potette Plus portable potty in my car (along with the insert bags and the aforementioned wipes). You never know how long it can be to the next rest stop so better safe than sorry.

Road trips with Kids – Be sure to bring along some favorite tunes.

I don’t like that song…

I’m not sure what’s more tolerable, listening to kids’ whining or kids’ music. I know my daughter is definitely happy when her favorite tunes are playing in the car so I highly recommend bringing along some kid-friendly music. For tots, this means Elmo (sorry!) and Laurie Berkner types. For older kids, you can’t go wrong with some Kidz Bop (33 albums can’t be wrong), Space Pop Girls or soundtracks to their favorite movies or shows.

I received some of these items for review purposes but all opinions are my own. This post contains some affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Must-Have Travel Gadgets for …

October 25, 2016 By admin

If you’re like me, you love any gadget that makes traveling a little easier. If you’ve got a trip coming up, be sure to check out these handy Must-Have Travel Gadgets for globetrotting families…

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – Globetrotting Mommy

PHOTOGRAPHY HELPERS

Family trips call for family photos and sometimes you just need a selfie stick to get everyone in the photo. The best selfie sticks are Bluetooth activated and hold a long lasting charge. Another great option is a GorillaPod which can be used as a tripod or wrapped around something sturdy.

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – Snack and Drink Containers

SNACK AND DRINK CONTAINERS

Eating on the go requires some advance planning so I always like to pack healthy snacks and drinks in sturdy containers like Drink in the Box and Snack in the Box. The rectangular shapes take up less space in my bag and they are so easy for little hands to handle.

CHARGERS

Chargers, chargers, chargers! If you lose juice in the middle of a trip, you’ll be sorry so be sure to bring along a reliable charger for every device. Lipstick-sized phone chargers are handy but test them at home to see how long they will power up your devices on the go. And, if you’re spending a day at Disney World, you will definitely want to bring along a heavy duty brick style cell phone charger.

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – Accell Home or Away Power Station.

PORTABLE POWER STATION

Accell Home or Away Power Station – Hotels are notorious for not having easy to reach outlets so I’ve started traveling with this handy three outlet surge protector. I love that it features three power outlets plus two USB ports so I can charge my phone, laptop and camera at the same time. Just fold down the prongs and throw it in your bag.

SEASONAL GADGETS

After the great purse flood of 2016, I’m paranoid about any and all water damage – like keep my car key fob in a ziploc paranoid. Because I’m often using my iPhone to take photos, I love using a waterproof phone case when I’m at a water park or pool. If you’re heading on a snow vacation, this handy snowball maker will keep kids entertained for hours.

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – TSA Approved Luggage Locks

LUGGAGE LOCKS

TSA approved luggage locks. Checking luggage definitely causes anxiety but when you’re traveling with kids on a big journey, you won’t have much of a choice. With these handy locks, TSA can get in if necessary but others can’t. Such a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Do you have any must-bring travel gadgets to add?

This post contains some affiliate links. I received some of these items for review purposes. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One …

October 11, 2016 By admin

One World Observatory, the observation deck at the top of One World Trade Center (aka Freedom Tower) in New York City has quickly become one of the city’s top tourist attractions since it opened last year. If you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, here are my top tips for visiting One World Trade Center, NYC’s tallest building.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

TICKETS AND PRICING AT ONE WORLD TRADE CENTER

1 – Buy your tickets in advance but don’t waste your money on the “priority” admission options since all visitors must pass thru the same waiting and security areas. The “flex” options are much more expensive but if you want to guarantee a clear day or kids being in a good mood, you may want to consider this. All tickets are timed so plan on getting there about 10-15 minutes before your scheduled admission time and you will be fine. If you’re traveling with young kids, I suggest visiting first thing in the morning or right after lunch time. Tickets start at $34 for adults for adults, $32 for seniors, and $28 for children 6-12. Kids five and under are free.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

GETTING THROUGH SECURITY

2 – All guests must pass through a quick security screening so this is not the day to break out your studded jeans and complicated belts. Be sure to check this list of prohibited items before you go as food and beverages, some strollers and camera equipment, large bags and other items are not allowed. All electronics, bags and metal objects will be scanned in bins while guests walk through metal detectors (no need to remove shoes). Once past security, a large LED screen shows how many visitors have been through that day and also since it’s opening. From there you can watch some short videos about the construction of the tower or continue on to the “sky pod” elevators.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

RIDING TO THE TOP – THE SKY POD ELEVATORS

3 – The “Sky Pod” elevators are super fast (47 seconds!) but you won’t want to miss the video that projects NYC being built (and rebuilt) all around you in an amazing time-lapse animation as you travel to the 102nd floor. You can see the complete video here. Be sure little kids are near the walls for best viewing and to warn them that their ears might pop during the ride. If you are prone to motion sickness, you might need a Dramamine.

ONCE AT THE TOP

4 – The first stop is the the See Forever Theater, a long room where a two-minute “Welcome to New York” video greets guests. When the video ends, the “screen” disappears to reveal the spectacular view so get ready to say “wow” out loud. From there, guests head to the 101st floor which features dining options and souvenir photos. Food and drinks are not allowed (except for water) and the dining options are crazy expensive so plan to eat before or after if you can. If you do need to buy an overpriced hot pretzel so your kids will not whine for an hour, I’m not here to judge.

Stunning NYC views atop One World Trade Center.

The 100th floor is where you’ll find the gorgeous 360-degree views so get your cameras ready although glass reflections and lighting are challenging. Be sure to visit the two observatory presentations which showcase information about the city, landmarks and activities.

Visitors can learn all about New York City at One World Observatory.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center, Sky Portal, Globetrotting Mommy

Don’t miss the Sky Portal at One World Observatory.

The Sky Portal, a glass paneled circle on the floor is a must see for kids and adults alike. Look below to see live video feeds from outside 1 WTC to simulate the view from 100 stories up in the air. Note – Those are HDTVs under glass so no need to be scared.

Checking out the NYC views at One World Observatory.

The views are just amazing in person, and once you get to the Observatory, you are free to stay as long as you want which is a nice perk. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see up to 50 miles away while spotting iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building as well as several bridges and NYC neighborhoods. Gorgeous views, right?

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

BACK TO THE BOTTOM

5 – The ride down has a different animated film featuring present day lower Manhattan so be sure to pay attention. Afterwards, be sure to check out the nearby 9/11 memorial which features two fountains representing the north and south towers of the fallen World Trade Center and the new Oculus shopping center.

The nearby Oculus is a must see.

Have you visited One World Trade Center? Tell me your favorite memory in the comments.

If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Fin Fun Mermaid Tails for …

October 5, 2016 By admin

Does your daughter love to swim? Does she love to dress up? Does she dream of being a mermaid? If you answered yes to any or all of those questions, you’ll love today’s topic…Fin Fun Mermaid Tails.

Does your daughter dream of being a mermaid?

My daughter’s mermaid obsession started years ago with a well worn Ariel costume and a Caribbean themed birthday party. On our Kalahari trip last year, the obsession continued with a mermaid swim lesson so when I met the Fin Fun Mermaid team this summer, I knew my daughter would love her very own mermaid tail.

Fin Fun Mermaid Tails for Globetrotting Girls.

With a wide range of colors, patterns and textures (glitter, rainbow and ombre oh my), there is a Fin Fun Mermaid tail sure to please everyone. Girls (and women) can choose from four limited edition designs (Clownfish and Blue Tang which remind me of Nemo and Dory and Maui Splash and Bail Breeze featuring colorful ombre designs) and the Mermaidens® collection which is available in a rainbow of ten colors and glittery Sparkle Costume Mermaid Tails.

Fin Fun Mermaid Tails for Globetrotting Girls

Select your mermaid tail, add the company’s patented Fin Fun Monofin flipper and voila, your little mermaid comes to life. There are few better places to test-drive a mermaid tail then the Caribbean so we brought Fin Fun’s Waverlee’s Malibu Pink Mermaid Tail along on our recent trip to Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

Fin Fun Mermaid Tails for Globetrotting Girls (Photo credit: Caribephoto)

It is little tricky getting into the tail and Monofin so little ones will definitely need some assistance. Secure feet inside the Monofin slots, pull the tail up and you’ve got a mermaid. I highly recommend putting this on poolside because once the Monofin is on, there will be no walking. FYI, if you need to walk, the Monofin can easily be removed since the tail bottom features an open end.

The resort had a zero entry pool which made it perfect for my daughter to slide right in. Once she was comfortable kicking her tail around in a sitting position, we ventured deeper into the lazy river and my daughter excitedly swam around. It was so cute to see all the girls asking their parents if she was a real mermaid.

Fin Fun Mermaid Tails for Globetrotting Girls

Mermaid tails are only recommended for children who are strong swimmers and young mermaids should definitely be supervised at all times. I loved having the mermaid tail as a prop for the adorable photo shoot we did with Caribephoto. How great are these photos they took?

Fin Fun Mermaid Tails for Globetrotting Girls (Photo credit: Caribephoto)

Fin Fun Mermaid Tails for Globetrotting Girls (Photo credit: Caribephoto)

If you’re looking for a unique gift for a girl (or mom) who likes to swim, a Fin Fun Mermaid tail is sure to please.

Big thanks to Fin Fun Mermaid for providing me with a mermaid tail to review and to Caribephoto for capturing these awesome photos. All opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Coney Island With Kids: Fall …

September 27, 2016 By admin

Coney Island with kids is always a fun summer retreat but Luna Park’s 2016 Halloween Harvest is one of my don’t miss recommendations for fall. We visited for the grand opening festivities and had a great time checking out the rides and seasonal activities.

Coney Island with kids: Fall Fun at Coney Island’s Halloween Harvest

Running through October 30th, the Halloween Harvest at Luna Park is sure to please kids of all ages with:

Fall Fun at Coney Island's Halloween Harvest, Luna Park

Coney Island with kids: Fall Fun at Coney Island’s Halloween Harvest

Dozens of kiddie, moderate and thrill rides at Luna Park (4-hour wristbands are $35)
Trick-or-treating with costumed characters
Magician shows
Kooky, spooky karaoke
Hay Maze (with pumpkin picking and painting – additional charge)
Live music with dance parties
Fun contests and games
Arts and crafts
Face painting and balloon animals
Petting zoo and pony rides
Fun photo ops

Additional special events include:

October 9 – Luna Park’s annual Dog Parade and Costume Contest, come pick the winners for Audience Choice, Cutest, Mister/Miss Congeniality, Most Original and Best of Show.

October 23 – Mark and the Maniac Carvers, Brooklyn-based pumpkin carvers transform a giant gourd into a Halloween masterpiece.

Fall Fun at Coney Island’s Halloween Harvest

Be sure to check out my Top 5 Tips for Visiting Coney Island before you go and don’t forget your camera! If you like to take mural photos, be sure to check out Coney Art Walls for some awesome backdrops.

Luna Park is open on Saturdays from 12 noon to 11 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 noon to 8 p.m. For a complete schedule of Halloween Harvest events and activities and for more information, go to www.www.lunaparknyc.com.

Have you visited Coney Island? Tell me below in the comments.

Special thanks to the Luna Park for inviting us to attend Halloween Harvest. All opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

« Previous Page

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

VACATION TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

BEFORE LEAVING FOR HOLIDAY TRAVELS

HOLIDAY TRAVEL PACKING TIPS

HOLIDAY TRAVEL ROAD TRIPS

HOLIDAY TRAVEL BY PLANE

SAFETY AT YOUR DESTINATION

DECORATING DO’S

HOLIDAY TOY HAZARDS

STAYING SAFE ON VACATION

TIPS TO REDUCE HOLIDAY STRESS

Share this:

BFF DATE: Waitress the Musical

SISTER DATE: That Golden Girls Show

MOM DATE: Fiddler on the Roof

HUSBAND DATE: The Illusionists – Turn of the Century

COUSINS DATE: Peter and the Wolf at the Guggenheim Museum

KIDDIE PLAY DATE: Pip’s Island

Share this:

I’m hungry…

I’m bored…

I made a mess…

I want my friends to come…

I have to go to the bathroom…

I don’t like that song…

Share this:

PHOTOGRAPHY HELPERS

SNACK AND DRINK CONTAINERS

CHARGERS

PORTABLE POWER STATION

SEASONAL GADGETS

LUGGAGE LOCKS

Share this:

TICKETS AND PRICING AT ONE WORLD TRADE CENTER

GETTING THROUGH SECURITY

RIDING TO THE TOP – THE SKY POD ELEVATORS

ONCE AT THE TOP

BACK TO THE BOTTOM

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Recent Posts

Meta

Recent Comments