Hi, thanks for visiting Planet Family Travel, a site devoted to fun things to see and do with friends and family. My hope is that through the articles and photos published here, you will feel inspired to plan it - your own fun vacation.
Recent trips, outings and photos are featured on this home page, and you'll find my articles on Mimi's Travel Blog. I've been traveling with and without my three children for 20 years and love sharing our adventures. Well before I became a mom I traveled with my parents and sister. I love travel and helping people plan their vacations. I think travel is exhilarating and good for the soul. Explore the world and please share your adventures and travel tips with your friends, family and me!
Where can you pet kangaroos?
Petting a kangaroo! No, I'm not in Australia. This group of red kangaroos live in the Nashville Zoo. Who would have thought, right? The young zoo (21 years old) houses animals in large open spaces similar to their natural habitat. No cages here. No wonder all the animals seem so happy!
On my recent trip to Nashville I had a blast exploring different sides of Music City. We went to Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, Adventure Science Center, and Nashville Shores water park, and strolled through the Gulch, Marathon and Hillsboro Village neighborhoods.
And, of course, we went to Nashville's famous honky tonk bars, Bluebird Cafe, Grand Ole Opry, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum, and the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum.
The southern food was amazing, but now that I'm home I'll be eating salads for a week.
Petting a kangaroo! No, I'm not in Australia. This group of red kangaroos live in the Nashville Zoo. Who would have thought, right? The young zoo (21 years old) houses animals in large open spaces similar to their natural habitat. No cages here. No wonder all the animals seem so happy!
On my recent trip to Nashville I had a blast exploring different sides of Music City. We went to Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, Adventure Science Center, and Nashville Shores water park, and strolled through the Gulch, Marathon and Hillsboro Village neighborhoods.
And, of course, we went to Nashville's famous honky tonk bars, Bluebird Cafe, Grand Ole Opry, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum, and the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum.
The southern food was amazing, but now that I'm home I'll be eating salads for a week.
Powder Skiing in Ogden, Utah
Utah is unique in that it has about 14 ski resorts, all easily accessible (roughly 30 minutes) from Salt Lake City. I recently returned from skiing at Ogden's three ski resorts. I arrived there on a direct flight from LAX to the tiny Ogden Airport via Allegiant Airlines. The comfortable, no-frills airline offers flights from just $35 one way. From home-base (at the super comfortable and amenity-laden Hampton Inn) in downtown Ogden (35 miles north of Salt Lake), we skied at Nordic Valley (super small but great for young families, snow so-so), Snowbasin (amazing!), and Powder Mountain (lots of fresh powder). I've skied at most of Utah's ski resorts and have enjoyed them all. Each has its own personality. But what sets Ogden apart from other resorts is the intimate experience. Snowbasin and Powder Mountain are large resorts but minus the big crowds in Park City (which, I adore). It snowed heavily in Snowbasin, but the gondola kept us warm as we rode to the top of the mountain. Skiing was fabulous, and apres-ski activities capped off a perfect day on the slopes. At Powder Mountain we skied on fresh powder and got in some tree skiing. I highly recommend visiting Ogden and skiing at these resorts of you enjoy the outdoors.
Utah is unique in that it has about 14 ski resorts, all easily accessible (roughly 30 minutes) from Salt Lake City. I recently returned from skiing at Ogden's three ski resorts. I arrived there on a direct flight from LAX to the tiny Ogden Airport via Allegiant Airlines. The comfortable, no-frills airline offers flights from just $35 one way. From home-base (at the super comfortable and amenity-laden Hampton Inn) in downtown Ogden (35 miles north of Salt Lake), we skied at Nordic Valley (super small but great for young families, snow so-so), Snowbasin (amazing!), and Powder Mountain (lots of fresh powder). I've skied at most of Utah's ski resorts and have enjoyed them all. Each has its own personality. But what sets Ogden apart from other resorts is the intimate experience. Snowbasin and Powder Mountain are large resorts but minus the big crowds in Park City (which, I adore). It snowed heavily in Snowbasin, but the gondola kept us warm as we rode to the top of the mountain. Skiing was fabulous, and apres-ski activities capped off a perfect day on the slopes. At Powder Mountain we skied on fresh powder and got in some tree skiing. I highly recommend visiting Ogden and skiing at these resorts of you enjoy the outdoors.
Road Trip Through Israel
I had an unexpected opportunity to visit Israel last month. One of my editors offered the trip, catching me off guard. Of course I agreed to the assignment. I was initially a bit nervous about traveling to the Middle East, but colleagues and friends assured me it was safe to travel to Israel. And I'm so glad I did! The itinerary was cultural, historical and adventurous, and I experienced it with a small group of wonderful journalists.
We stayed in five different hotels in seven nights during our road trip through Israel, which began and ended in Tel Aviv, and included stops in Old Jaffa, Massada, Negev area, and - my favorite - Jerusalem. Trip highlights included exploring King Herod's fortress, floating in the Dead Sea, riding a camel (actually I was kind of scared!), swimming in the Mediterranean, shopping in open-air markets, and walking through Old Jerusalem in the steps of Jesus. So amazing to visit places I've read about in the Bible. A visit to Israel is truly where Bible stories come alive. I took hundreds of photos; below is a slideshow featuring some of my favorite places, food and activities in Israel.
I had an unexpected opportunity to visit Israel last month. One of my editors offered the trip, catching me off guard. Of course I agreed to the assignment. I was initially a bit nervous about traveling to the Middle East, but colleagues and friends assured me it was safe to travel to Israel. And I'm so glad I did! The itinerary was cultural, historical and adventurous, and I experienced it with a small group of wonderful journalists.
We stayed in five different hotels in seven nights during our road trip through Israel, which began and ended in Tel Aviv, and included stops in Old Jaffa, Massada, Negev area, and - my favorite - Jerusalem. Trip highlights included exploring King Herod's fortress, floating in the Dead Sea, riding a camel (actually I was kind of scared!), swimming in the Mediterranean, shopping in open-air markets, and walking through Old Jerusalem in the steps of Jesus. So amazing to visit places I've read about in the Bible. A visit to Israel is truly where Bible stories come alive. I took hundreds of photos; below is a slideshow featuring some of my favorite places, food and activities in Israel.
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Eau Claire, a charming city in west central Wisconsin. During our visit in early October, we enjoyed mild weather ideal for outdoor fun - with some activities being unique to this mid-western town.
For example, I learned to play kubb, a lawn game that originated in Sweden. The basic premise is to knock down blocks of wood with a stick. It's a fun, strategic game, especially when you're drinking a Spotted Cow beer! A group of Wisconsinites introduced the game to Eau Claire and now the town hosts annual championships.
It was also my first time riding a fat tire bike. We rode on woodsy paths over roots and stumps in Carson Park. I'd love to try this in the snow.
But what really stood out about Eau Claire is the number of unique start-up companies by young people following their passion. Soul Brewed Coffee at Shift Cyclery & Coffee Bar combines craft roasted brews and a bike facility. So you can rent a bike or bring yours in for repair and have a cup of coffee at the same time.
These are just a few examples of what I enjoyed about my visit to Eau Claire.
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Eau Claire, a charming city in west central Wisconsin. During our visit in early October, we enjoyed mild weather ideal for outdoor fun - with some activities being unique to this mid-western town.
For example, I learned to play kubb, a lawn game that originated in Sweden. The basic premise is to knock down blocks of wood with a stick. It's a fun, strategic game, especially when you're drinking a Spotted Cow beer! A group of Wisconsinites introduced the game to Eau Claire and now the town hosts annual championships.
It was also my first time riding a fat tire bike. We rode on woodsy paths over roots and stumps in Carson Park. I'd love to try this in the snow.
But what really stood out about Eau Claire is the number of unique start-up companies by young people following their passion. Soul Brewed Coffee at Shift Cyclery & Coffee Bar combines craft roasted brews and a bike facility. So you can rent a bike or bring yours in for repair and have a cup of coffee at the same time.
These are just a few examples of what I enjoyed about my visit to Eau Claire.
Travel is so invigorating and therapeutic!
After months of caring for my mom after her heart attack (and now that she's stable), I finally began to travel again. It feels so good to feel happiness and joy again. And my recent travels to Amsterdam and Bulgaria are among my all-time favorite trips. My visit to Amsterdam was prompted by my daughter, Megan, a study abroad student at the University of Amsterdam. Amsterdam is one of the prettiest European cities I've seen. And Bulgaria: I've been planning for years to bring my three kids to our motherland. Although, my son was unable to join us, my two daughters and I went to Bulgaria during our Amsterdam trip. From Amsterdam, it's a short flight (about two hours) and affordable (about $200 RT). We reunited with relatives and met others, making this not only a cultural trip but an emotional one getting to know our extended family.
In this photo, we're standing in front of the Rila Monastery, one of Bulgaria's top monuments. Built in the 10th century, it's a beautiful monastery and home to several monks.
I'll post a story soon about both Amsterdam and Bulgaria.
In the meantime, for those planning an exotic family vacation, consider Thailand, Costa Rica and Bermuda. L.A. Parent magazine featured my article about these three fantastic places. Among our numerous fun adventures we spent a few days in Thailand's rural communities as well as in Bangkok, went river rafting in Costa Rica, and rode horses on a beach in Bermuda.
I don't know about you, but for me weekend getaways can be stress relievers. I especially love cruises, where I can unwind and enjoy ocean views for three or four days, yet have dining, lodging and entertainment all in one place at my fingertips. For once, I wasn't looking for adventure (the usual focus of my trips) when I booked a three-night cruise from Los Angeles to Ensenada aboard Carnival Inspiration. I just needed a few days away from the stress in my life, a little pampering and fresh ocean air. My son was looking for the same thing, a relaxing weekend. And that's exactly what we got on our weekend cruise. We ate, drank and talked - pure bliss.
After months of caring for my mom after her heart attack (and now that she's stable), I finally began to travel again. It feels so good to feel happiness and joy again. And my recent travels to Amsterdam and Bulgaria are among my all-time favorite trips. My visit to Amsterdam was prompted by my daughter, Megan, a study abroad student at the University of Amsterdam. Amsterdam is one of the prettiest European cities I've seen. And Bulgaria: I've been planning for years to bring my three kids to our motherland. Although, my son was unable to join us, my two daughters and I went to Bulgaria during our Amsterdam trip. From Amsterdam, it's a short flight (about two hours) and affordable (about $200 RT). We reunited with relatives and met others, making this not only a cultural trip but an emotional one getting to know our extended family.
In this photo, we're standing in front of the Rila Monastery, one of Bulgaria's top monuments. Built in the 10th century, it's a beautiful monastery and home to several monks.
I'll post a story soon about both Amsterdam and Bulgaria.
In the meantime, for those planning an exotic family vacation, consider Thailand, Costa Rica and Bermuda. L.A. Parent magazine featured my article about these three fantastic places. Among our numerous fun adventures we spent a few days in Thailand's rural communities as well as in Bangkok, went river rafting in Costa Rica, and rode horses on a beach in Bermuda.
I don't know about you, but for me weekend getaways can be stress relievers. I especially love cruises, where I can unwind and enjoy ocean views for three or four days, yet have dining, lodging and entertainment all in one place at my fingertips. For once, I wasn't looking for adventure (the usual focus of my trips) when I booked a three-night cruise from Los Angeles to Ensenada aboard Carnival Inspiration. I just needed a few days away from the stress in my life, a little pampering and fresh ocean air. My son was looking for the same thing, a relaxing weekend. And that's exactly what we got on our weekend cruise. We ate, drank and talked - pure bliss.
Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa
A couple of weeks before Christmas we spent a few days at this sprawling tropical resort in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Though not our first visit to Punta Cana, it was our first time at the resort, situated on the beach along the east coast of the Dominican Republic. There are actually four resorts (one just for adults) on the property - so big that golf carts make the rounds to pick up guests, if you want to catch a ride. But once you get the lay of the land, it's relaxing to stroll along the lushly landscaped grounds. My favorite place was the beach. The water was clear, calm and warm. And there were plenty of complimentary lounge chairs under thatched umbrellas and coconut trees.
Dining is amazing. With five buffet restaurants and 13 dining establishments, we ate somewhere different for every meal. And each was a treat.
This all-inclusive resort truly includes everything! Accommodations, dining, drinks (including alcohol), children's programs, entertainment and activities.
A couple of weeks before Christmas we spent a few days at this sprawling tropical resort in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Though not our first visit to Punta Cana, it was our first time at the resort, situated on the beach along the east coast of the Dominican Republic. There are actually four resorts (one just for adults) on the property - so big that golf carts make the rounds to pick up guests, if you want to catch a ride. But once you get the lay of the land, it's relaxing to stroll along the lushly landscaped grounds. My favorite place was the beach. The water was clear, calm and warm. And there were plenty of complimentary lounge chairs under thatched umbrellas and coconut trees.
Dining is amazing. With five buffet restaurants and 13 dining establishments, we ate somewhere different for every meal. And each was a treat.
This all-inclusive resort truly includes everything! Accommodations, dining, drinks (including alcohol), children's programs, entertainment and activities.
Anthem of the Seas Drops Anchor in America
Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas ship made its official debut in Cape Liberty in early November and will make weekly sailings to the Caribbean for an indefinite period. I joined local and international journalists for a two-night voyage aboard the massive ship, featuring first-at-sea attractions, dynamic dining, technology-infused entertainment, and lovely staterooms. Anthem has the same design and featuers as RC's Quantum ship (which I experienced last year). The primary difference between the sister ships is the stage entertainment. One thing is for sure, kids won't get bored.
Seaplex is a transforming space housing bumper cars, a circus school, roller skating and full-size basketball court. I experienced flying in iFly, a skydiving simulator. After a brief lesson we suited up and entered a chamber one by one with our instructor. So much fun! I didn't try FloRider, but watched people try surfing and boogie boarding.
The shows were really good,e specially for cruise entertainment. We Will Rock You features Queen's music, and Spectre is a musical show that incorporates special effects and technology.
Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas ship made its official debut in Cape Liberty in early November and will make weekly sailings to the Caribbean for an indefinite period. I joined local and international journalists for a two-night voyage aboard the massive ship, featuring first-at-sea attractions, dynamic dining, technology-infused entertainment, and lovely staterooms. Anthem has the same design and featuers as RC's Quantum ship (which I experienced last year). The primary difference between the sister ships is the stage entertainment. One thing is for sure, kids won't get bored.
Seaplex is a transforming space housing bumper cars, a circus school, roller skating and full-size basketball court. I experienced flying in iFly, a skydiving simulator. After a brief lesson we suited up and entered a chamber one by one with our instructor. So much fun! I didn't try FloRider, but watched people try surfing and boogie boarding.
The shows were really good,e specially for cruise entertainment. We Will Rock You features Queen's music, and Spectre is a musical show that incorporates special effects and technology.
Two Days in Puerto Vallarta
I always forget what an easy jaunt it is from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta. In less than three hours after departing L.A., we were at the Casamagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, swimming in the warm pool and ocean. The family-friendly resort is a five-minute drive from the airport, and about a 15-minute drive to the city's boardwalk.
In the short time we were there (Hurricane Patricia shortened our stay, but fortunately spared Puerto Vallarta), we released baby turtles into the ocean, rode a speed boat to the La Marietas Islands to snorkel, saw lots of dolphins along the way, and swam to Secret Beach. On the boat ride back, we saw two turtles mating in the ocean.
We also enjoyed a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, stopping to admire the many art sculptures before dinner at the lovely beach front La Palapas restaurant.
Casamagna Marriott is a destination in itself. A large infinity pool with swim-up bar, a separate children's pool, several restaurants, a children's program and a spa facility are among the amenities. A Thai massage spa treatment capped off my short but sweet visit to Puerto Vallarta.
I always forget what an easy jaunt it is from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta. In less than three hours after departing L.A., we were at the Casamagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, swimming in the warm pool and ocean. The family-friendly resort is a five-minute drive from the airport, and about a 15-minute drive to the city's boardwalk.
In the short time we were there (Hurricane Patricia shortened our stay, but fortunately spared Puerto Vallarta), we released baby turtles into the ocean, rode a speed boat to the La Marietas Islands to snorkel, saw lots of dolphins along the way, and swam to Secret Beach. On the boat ride back, we saw two turtles mating in the ocean.
We also enjoyed a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, stopping to admire the many art sculptures before dinner at the lovely beach front La Palapas restaurant.
Casamagna Marriott is a destination in itself. A large infinity pool with swim-up bar, a separate children's pool, several restaurants, a children's program and a spa facility are among the amenities. A Thai massage spa treatment capped off my short but sweet visit to Puerto Vallarta.
Family Adventures in Costa Rica
We finally made it to beautiful Costa Rica, where we went whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, hiking on the Cerro Chato volcano, mountain biking and zip lining. It was my most adventurous trip ever and I loved it!
During a slow moving part of the river, we jumped in! Rey, our guide with Rios Tropicales, gave great instructions for navigating technical parts of the river but he was also a lot of fun, insisting we stand and "surf' gentle rapids. I think the idea was for us to fall into the river!
We finally made it to beautiful Costa Rica, where we went whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, hiking on the Cerro Chato volcano, mountain biking and zip lining. It was my most adventurous trip ever and I loved it!
During a slow moving part of the river, we jumped in! Rey, our guide with Rios Tropicales, gave great instructions for navigating technical parts of the river but he was also a lot of fun, insisting we stand and "surf' gentle rapids. I think the idea was for us to fall into the river!
Carnival Cruise Aboard the Miracle Ship to the Mexican Riviera
As longtime cruisers, we know what we do and don't like about cruising. There's not much (if anything) that we don't like about cruising and our recent sail with Carnival was splendid. The mid-sized Miracle (which holds about 2,000 passengers) was a delight. Our stateroom (#8171) comfortable sleeps four people; although there were only three of us on this cruise). The food was better than most cruise lines we've sailed with, although the shows were just average (entertaining but so-so). The ports - Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta - were a lot of fun and we felt totally safe (I know some people hesitate visiting here). We took water taxis to beaches in Cabo and street taxis in PV and everything was just fine. We only book excursions through Carnival to ensure getting back to the ship on time. Plus, Carnival guarantees the best rates or they will refund the difference, so you can't go wrong booking with the company.
As longtime cruisers, we know what we do and don't like about cruising. There's not much (if anything) that we don't like about cruising and our recent sail with Carnival was splendid. The mid-sized Miracle (which holds about 2,000 passengers) was a delight. Our stateroom (#8171) comfortable sleeps four people; although there were only three of us on this cruise). The food was better than most cruise lines we've sailed with, although the shows were just average (entertaining but so-so). The ports - Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta - were a lot of fun and we felt totally safe (I know some people hesitate visiting here). We took water taxis to beaches in Cabo and street taxis in PV and everything was just fine. We only book excursions through Carnival to ensure getting back to the ship on time. Plus, Carnival guarantees the best rates or they will refund the difference, so you can't go wrong booking with the company.
Family Travel Highlights
My two daughters and I took a seven-night Princess Alaskan Cruise through the Inside Passage. It was even more beautiful than I expected. First, the cruise itself was fabulous. We've cruised numerous times but this was our first experience with Princess and I definitely recommend this cruise line. We booked the Golden Princess, which sails round-trip from Seattle, WA.
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Thailand's Eco-Tourism Among the many things I really enjoyed about our visit to Thailand was interacting with locals and participating in hands-on demonstrations for cooking, soap making, hat making and much more, arranged by Local Alike, a community-based tourism marketplace. We flew into Bangkok, and took another plane to Trat - about a 40-minute flight. The villages are rustic, some more than others, but they all share a eagerness to introduce visitors to their way of life. We went boating on fishing excursions, planted tress in a mangrove forest, and rode old bikes on dirty roads through a small village. When I travel, I like meeting locals and experiencing off the beaten path activities like that. That's not to say I don't like mainstream "tourist" activities too. When we were in Bangkok, we rode elephants, shopped at a floating market and visited temples and ruins. Thailand exceeded my expectations and I learned a lot about the friendly Thai people. Even a few Thai words, like kob khun ka (thank you), aroy (delicious) and kao griab ya-nah (a rice chips and shrimp dish we learned to make. See photo). |
Costa Rica
The Cerro Chato volcano hike to the summit was both the most challenging and rewarding hike I've ever done. It was steep and we had to navigate muddy slopes and tree roots, but with help from my fellow hikers I made it! We were all hot, tired and muddy but exhilarated. In this photo, we're on the Cerro Chato summit with the Arenal volcano behind us. Pura Vida! The hike was one of many adventures in beautiful Costa Rica. |