family-vacation Archives

How to Capture the Magic: Tips for Photographing Your Family Vacation

Family vacations are a time for adventure, laughter, and bonding. Whether you’re exploring a new city, lounging on a beach, or hiking through the mountains, these moments are precious. Capturing them in photographs not only preserves the memories but also allows you to relive the magic long after the trip is over. However, getting those perfect pictures can be a challenge, especially when you have kids in tow. Here are some tips to help you photograph your family vacation like a pro and ensure that every shot is picture-perfect.

1. Embrace Candid Moments

One of the best ways to capture the true essence of your family vacation is by embracing candid moments. Instead of trying to stage every shot, let your kids be themselves. Capture them mid-laughter, exploring their surroundings, or interacting with locals. Candid photos often tell a story and evoke emotions more effectively than posed shots. They highlight the spontaneity and joy of the moment, making them some of the most cherished images in your collection.

Tip: Keep your camera or smartphone handy at all times. You never know when a perfect picture opportunity will present itself.

2. Make Use of Natural Light

Lighting is one of the most crucial elements in photography. Natural light, especially during the golden hour (the hour after sunrise and before sunset), can add warmth and softness to your photos. When shooting outdoors, try to position your subjects so that the light falls on them from the side, creating a more dynamic and flattering effect. Avoid harsh midday sun, which can create unflattering shadows and cause squinting.

Tip: If you’re photographing indoors, try to position your family near a window to make use of the available natural light or use candles.

3. Get Down to Their Level

When photographing children, it’s essential to get down to their eye level. This perspective allows you to see the world from their point of view and creates more engaging and intimate images. Whether they’re building a sandcastle, climbing a tree, or just sitting quietly, kneeling or lying down to shoot at their eye level will produce more compelling and relatable photos.

Tip: Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Sometimes shooting from above or below can add an interesting dynamic to your images.

4. Use Burst Mode for Action Shots

Kids are always on the move, and capturing those fast-paced moments can be challenging. To ensure you don’t miss a single detail, use the burst mode on your camera or smartphone. Burst mode takes multiple shots in quick succession, allowing you to choose the best frame later. This feature is perfect for action-packed moments like jumping into a pool, running on the beach, or playing a game of tag.

Tip: After taking a burst of photos, review them to select the perfect picture. Delete the rest to save storage space and keep your photo library organized.

5. Include the Environment

While close-up shots are great for capturing expressions, don’t forget to include the environment in your photos. The backdrop of your vacation destination adds context and helps tell the story of your travels. Whether it’s a stunning mountain range, a bustling cityscape, or a serene beach, incorporating the surroundings into your photos will make them more meaningful and memorable.

Tip: Use the rule of thirds to compose your shots. This technique involves dividing your frame into nine equal parts and positioning your subject along the lines or at the intersections. This creates a more balanced and visually appealing image.

6. Capture the Small Details

Family vacations are filled with little details that can easily be overlooked but are worth capturing. It could be the colorful ice cream cone your child is enjoying, the intricate patterns on a local artisan’s craft, or the tiny footprints left in the sand. These small details add richness to your photo collection and help you remember the unique aspects of your trip.

Tip: Focus on textures, patterns, and colors. These elements can make even the simplest subjects visually interesting and contribute to the overall narrative of your vacation.

7. Involve the Whole Family

It’s easy to get caught up in photographing your kids, but don’t forget to include yourself and other family members in the photos. Hand the camera to your partner or use a tripod and timer to capture group shots. These photos are important because they show the togetherness and unity of your family during the vacation. Years down the line, your kids will cherish these photos as they see how everyone experienced the trip together.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask a fellow traveler or a passerby to take a photo of your family. Most people are happy to help, and it allows you to be in the frame too.

8. Edit with a Light Touch

After your vacation, you’ll likely have hundreds of photos to sort through. While editing can enhance your images, it’s important to use a light touch. Focus on adjusting exposure, contrast, and color balance to make your photos pop without altering them too much. There are plenty of user-friendly editing apps available that offer filters and effects to enhance your photos.

Tip: Create a photo album or a digital slideshow of your edited photos to share with family and friends. It’s a great way to relive the memories and show off your perfect pictures.

9. Create a Story with Your Photos

A single photo can capture a moment, but a series of photos can tell a story. When photographing your family vacation, think about the narrative you want to create. Start with the excitement of packing and setting off on your adventure, then capture the highlights of each day, and conclude with the journey home. This approach not only helps you organize your photos but also makes them more engaging when you look back on them.

Tip: Consider creating a photo book or an online blog post to document your vacation. Include captions and anecdotes to accompany your photos, making the story even more personal and memorable.

10. Relax and Have Fun

The most important tip for photographing your family vacation is to relax and have fun. Don’t stress about getting the perfect picture every time. Some of the best photos happen when you’re simply enjoying the moment. Your kids will appreciate the memories more if they see you having a good time with them, rather than constantly worrying about getting the perfect shot.

Tip: Set aside specific times for photography and then put the camera away to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Balance is key to enjoying your vacation while capturing it on film.

Conclusion

Photographing your family vacation is about more than just snapping perfect pictures—it’s about preserving the magic of the moments you share together. By embracing candid moments, using natural light, and getting creative with your shots, you can create a collection of photos that truly reflects the joy and adventure of your family travels. So, pack your camera, follow these tips, and get ready to capture the magic of your next family vacation!

About The Author

Andy Braddell is a UK citizen with tremendous experience in traveling. He wants to encourage people to be curious about the world and find ways to fit more travel into their lifestyle than they already have. He wants others to look at him and say, ‘Because of you, I didn’t give up.

10 Family Activities for Your Next Hawaiian Vacation

It’s always fun, but it can also be stressful, to plan a vacation for the whole family. You are looking for a vacation spot to accommodate the entire family’s needs, from exciting activities to soothing pursuits, so that everyone can have a good time. You need to look at the breathtaking islands of Hawaii. Hawaii is the ideal location for a wonderful family vacation thanks to its breathtaking natural scenery, diverse cultural experiences, and limitless choices for recreational activities. This post will discuss ten activities that are perfect for families and will make your next trip to Hawaii an experience you will never forget.

1. Going On An Adventure At Volcanoes National Park

When you think about Hawaii, images of untouched beaches and verdant forests spring to mind. On the other side, one of Hawaii’s most breathtaking natural treasures is Volcanoes National Park. Lava fields, active volcanoes, and other extraordinary geological structures can be found within this park. As you and your loved ones trek through the park’s hiking paths and stop by the Jaggar Museum, you will get the opportunity to learn about the raw force of nature through the lens of a knowledgeable guide. Everyone who takes part in this exercise will leave having enjoyed themselves and learning something new.

2. Snorkeling on Garden Isle

The Hawaiian island of Kauai, often called the Garden Isle, is a tropical paradise renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty above and below the water. While the island is known for its verdant vistas and high cliffs, the undersea world surrounding it is just as interesting. Going on the Kauai snorkeling tours you will get a fantastic chance to see the breathtaking coral reefs and thriving marine life all over the island. Snorkeling in Kauai’s waters allows visitors to have life-changing experiences with various marine life. Diverse marine life, including thriving coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles, may be found in the waters surrounding the island. When you sign up for a snorkeling excursion, you enhance your chances of coming across these intriguing animals in the environment in which they are naturally found. Imagine what it might be like to swim alongside sea turtles or get a close-up look at the brilliant colors of a coral reef. These up-close interactions afford remarkable opportunities for photography and the creation of memories that will last a lifetime.

3. The First Observation Of Pearl Harbor

In particular, families interested in World War II’s history can make it a point to visit Pearl Harbor while they are in Hawaii. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial, where you can pay your respects to the brave service members who passed away due to the attack on Pearl Harbor. Visit the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park to find out more about the development of submarine warfare. This event provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to gain knowledge about an important turning point in history while also paying tribute to the brave individuals who have served their country.

4. Luau Night Experience

Attending at least one traditional luau is possible to have a truly Hawaiian vacation. This lively and colorful event celebrates Hawaiian culture by showcasing music, dance, and the region’s delectable cuisine. While you watch mesmerizing performances of hula dancers and fire knife twirlers. You can indulge in a feast of native specialties, including kalua pig and poi. The delightful ambiance and heartfelt hospitality permeating the entire evening are sure to mesmerize every member of the household.

5. Exploring Waikiki Beach

One of the beaches in Hawaii that is most famous and bustling with activity is Waikiki Beach, which is found in Honolulu. It’s golden dunes and turquoise waters make it the ideal location for a day of recreational activities for the whole family. Construct sandcastles, swim, or sign up for a surfing class at one of the area’s many surf schools to see if you have what it takes to ride the waves. Because the beach is bordered on both sides by shops, restaurants, and entertainment venue. There is seldom a moment when there is nothing to do.

6. Going On a Tour In A Helicopter

Treat your family to an unforgettable adventure by taking a helicopter ride among the Hawaiian islands. They won’t forget this event, for sure. When you take to the air in a helicopter, you’ll be treated to spectacular panoramic views of craggy coasts, plunging waterfalls, and verdant valleys. Maintain a ready stance with your camera to record the splendor from a fresh viewpoint. Flying above natural wonders like secret waterfalls and active volcanoes will imprint memories on your mind that will be with you for the rest of your life.

7. Traveling The Path To Hana In Search Of Adventure

The Road to Hana is a well-known beautiful route that can be found on the island of Maui. There are several family-friendly activities you may partake in while traveling. Prepare to embark on an exciting journey that will take you down winding roads across picturesque bridges and past breathtaking waterfalls. You can Visit the Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden to take in the breathtaking scenery, learn about unique plant species, and enjoy a relaxing picnic. Take advantage of the opportunity to cool off in the refreshing waters of Ohe’o Gulch’s pools, also called the Seven Sacred Pools.

8. Taking In A Show At The Polynesian Cultural Center

By taking a trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center on the island of Oahu, you and your loved ones will have the opportunity to learn about the diverse cultural history of the Pacific islands. Explore traditional settlements that represent a variety of Polynesian civilizations. Such as those found in Hawaii, Samoa, and Tonga. Take part in enthralling cultural performances, peruse displays of traditional crafts, and feast on a luau dinner. People of all ages will find that visiting the center is both fun and educational due to the fact that it offers opportunities for participation.

9. Swimming Beside Manta Rays While Snorkeling

Consider snorkeling with manta rays for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with marine life you’ll never forget. The Kona Coast on the Big Island is famous for the manta ray night dives that may be experienced there. During this time, guests will get the opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent animals. Professionals will lead you as you observe the exquisite motions of the dolphins as they swim through the ocean. It is an otherworldly experience that will make you marvel at the wondrous things the sea offers.

10. Enjoying A Sunset Cruise

Take your Hawaiian vacation off on a high note by going on a cruise during the evening’s sunset. Get on a catamaran. Or a sailing yacht and set sail along the coast to see the Hawaiian sunset in all its brilliant colors. Relax while listening to live music, sipping refreshing tropical drinks, and letting the soothing air from the ocean take your cares away. Everyone in the family can remember this time fondly because it was restful and romantic.

Conclusion

Families looking for adventure, leisure, and immersion in the local culture will realize their vacation dreams in Hawaii. The opportunities for fun things for families to do in Hawaii are practically limitless thanks to the state’s gorgeous landscapes, thriving marine life, and lengthy history. You will have experiences on your next vacation to Hawaii that you will remember for the rest of your life. Such as hiking up volcanoes and swimming alongside sea turtles while snorkeling. Put your belongings in order, adopt an aloha attitude, and prepare for an experience you will never forget with your family in the paradisiacal state of Hawaii.

Things To Do in London With The Kids

London is a remarkable city when it comes to city life. Furthermore, it is a great place to live (if you have the money) but it is a fantastic place to visit. London is the capital of the United Kingdom and it is easy to understand why. Other than the historical buildings that represent the royal family and parliament, London has many modern structures to visit.

London is one of those cities that is very expensive. It thrives off tourism from those overseas who want to see Buckingham Palace and those who live much closer. However, because of these extortionate prices, many people believe that it isn’t a good place to go with the kids.

If you are looking for a weekend getaway with the kids or just want somewhere to visit for the day, we have you covered, whether that is watching football or sightseeing.

The London Eye

There are many places to see and visit in London but if you are there for the day, that can be difficult. Luckily, you can take it all in from one spot with the London Eye.

London Eye is arguably the most popular attraction in the capital and it is easy to understand why. Not only does the London Eye deliver panoramic views of this marvelous city but shows you a 4D movie when you are at the top.

A tip for visiting this attraction is to buy a fast-track ticket if you can afford it. The queues can be really if you are going at peak so make sure you get one of these.

Madame Tussauds

Now, you have probably heard of this exhibition and are wondering why it is on the list of things to do with your kids. However, once you are there, you will understand why it is excellent for all ages.

There are many different figures that they will recognize. Ronaldo, Shrek, E.T., and many more are all there to put smiles on the little one’s faces. Not to mention the 4D Super Heroes movie available to watch is a fantastic attraction. Although they may pull a face at the idea, they will surely love it once there.

The Royal Mews

If you want to make your trip to London fun but educational, The Royal Mews should be on your list. The Royal Mews tour takes you around the stables, looking at a couple of the horses as well as some of the carriages.

The Royal Mews is far less popular than Buckingham Palace so if you want the kids to know more about the royal family, this is worth the visit.

Sea Life London Aquarium

Sea Life is one of the most amazing places to visit and you can guarantee the kids will love it. Furthermore, it is next to some of the other locations that we have already mentioned such as the London Eye, meaning you don’t need to walk too far to your next stop.

Kids love aquariums and when they see the sharks, stingrays, and other fish here, they will love them more. Plus, they have interactive games that will not only entertain them but will also educate them. It is an attraction that is worth visiting for not only the children but also you as well.

Must Visit Toy Stores In London

Amongst its numerous high-street fashion shops, London is also home to many great toy stores. Stores such as the Lego store and m&ms store, which are located in Leicester Square, are both must-visits. However, we will pre-warn you that they will likely demand something from each of these shops so make sure you bring enough money for the day.

Harry Potter Filming Locations

Last but not least, the Harry Potter film tour and locations. If you have children who love Harry Potter, London is the place to be for those Harry Potter fans of yours. There are many different locations which you can visit that might be the highlight of their trip to London.

Depending on how long you are in London, The Making of Harry Potter at Warner Bros Studio Tour is a must-see. Although this tour is located outside the city center, many tours offer bus transfers from the city center to the studios. Trust us, there are many things to see in London but this is a must-visit if you are enjoying a weekend in London.

Summary

London is one of the busiest cities in the world due to the tourism it attracts. Trying to find a day when it is not busy can be challenging. Not to mention how busy the parking in central London is. It is a city that is difficult to enjoy due to the number of people there so if possible, try to visit on a day that isn’t a bank holiday. That way, it will be less busy for you and your kids to enjoy.

About The Author

Daisy Moss is a freelance writer specializing in vintage jewelry. When she isn’t writing you will probably find her looking for her next investment in Hatton Garden.

The Best Ski Resorts For Families: Where To Find The Perfect Getaway!

Are you looking for the perfect family getaway this winter? Look no further than a ski resort! Skiing with your family can be an exciting and fun-filled adventure that you will never forget. Read on to find out some of the best ski resorts around that are worth visiting for a family who’s looking to have a blast in the snow!

Introduction to Ski Resorts

When it comes to picking the perfect ski resort for your family, there are a few things you’ll want to take into account. Here are our top tips for finding the best ski resort for families:

– Consider the age of your children. If you have young children, you’ll want to make sure the resort has a good kids’ program. Also, don’t forget to bring kids’ gloves!

– Think about what kind of skiing you want to do. Do you want to hit the slopes every day, or are you looking for a more relaxed vacation?

– Look at the amenities offered by each resort. Some resorts offer great shopping and dining options, while others have more of a focus on outdoor activities.

– Compare prices between resorts. Lift tickets and lodging can add up, so you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.

What to Look For in a Family-Friendly Ski Resort

When planning a ski trip for your family, there are several factors to consider in order to find the perfect resort for your needs. It’s best for you, to have a fast fiber optic internet for better results while searching for it. Here are some key things to look for in a family-friendly ski resort:

Ski School: A good ski school can make all the difference in your family’s skiing experience. Look for a resort with quality instruction and plenty of program options to fit your family’s needs and abilities.

Childcare: If you’re planning on bringing young children along on your trip, it’s important to find a resort that offers quality childcare facilities. This will allow you to enjoy some time on the slopes while knowing that your little ones are well-cared for.

Family Activities: In addition to skiing and snowboarding, many resorts offer a variety of other activities that the whole family can enjoy. From sledding and tubing to ice skating and snowshoeing, there’s something for everyone at most family-friendly resorts.

Accommodations: When traveling with kids, it’s often helpful to have separate sleeping arrangements so that everyone can get a good night’s sleep. Many resorts offer suites or condominiums with multiple bedrooms – perfect for larger families.

Top 10 Family Ski Resorts

Skiing is a great way to spend time with the family, and there are plenty of excellent resorts out there that cater to families. To help you find the perfect place for your next ski trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 family ski resorts:

1. Beaver Creek Resort, Colorado

2. Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

3. Vail Ski Resort, Colorado

4. Keystone Ski Resort, Colorado

5. Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

6. Deer Valley Resort, Utah

7. Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort, Utah

8. Alta Ski Area, Utah

9. Steamboat Springs Ski Resort, Colorado

10. Winter Park Resort, Colorado

Tips and Tricks for Families Visiting a Ski Resort

When it comes to ski vacations, families have a lot to consider. But with a little bit of planning, you can make the most of your trip and create lasting memories. Here are our tips and tricks for families visiting a ski resort:

1. Choose the right resort: Not all resorts are created equal when it comes to families. Do your research ahead of time and look for resorts that offer lessons for all ages, kid-friendly amenities, and beginner-friendly terrain.

2. Pack wisely: Make sure everyone in the family has the proper gear before heading to the resort. In addition to warm clothes, everyone will need skis, boots, poles, and a helmet. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can usually rent everything you need on-site. In addition to warm clothes, everyone will need skis, boots, mittens, poles, and a helmet. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can usually rent everything you need on-site.

3. Take lessons: Skiing is a lot easier (and more fun) when you know what you’re doing! Most resorts offer group or private lessons for all levels of skiers. Kids often do best in group lessons with other kids their age.

4. Explore the terrain: Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to start exploring! Many resorts have different areas designated for different skill levels, so take some time to find trails that are appropriate for your family. And don’t forget about the après ski scene – many resorts have great restaurants and bars where you can relax after a long day on the

Additional Services at Ski Resorts

In addition to the great skiing that most resorts offer, many also have other activities that can keep the family entertained. These activities can include snow tubing, ice skating, dog sledding, and much more. There are also usually a variety of shops and restaurants available at the resort so you can take a break from the slopes and enjoy some other amenities.

Cost Comparison of Family Ski Resorts

When it comes to finding the best ski resort for your family, the cost is likely one of the big factors you’ll consider. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the top family ski resorts and their approximate costs:

Vail, Colorado: A four-day adult lift ticket starts at $238. A four-day child lift ticket (ages 6-12) begins at $143. Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa: rates start at $422 per night. The Oasis at Sunriver Resort: rates start at $309 per night. Beaver Creek, Colorado: A four-day adult lift ticket starts at $238. A four-day child lift ticket (ages 6-12) begins at $143. The Ritz Carlton, Bachelor Gulch: rates start at $525 per night.

As you can see, there is quite a range in pricing among these different resorts. Vail and Beaver Creek are on the more expensive end, while The Oasis at Sunriver Resort is more budget-friendly. It really just depends on what amenities and luxuries you’re looking for during your stay. Whichever resort you choose, you’re sure to have an incredible time with your family!

Conclusion

Ski resorts offer something for the whole family, and with our expert-backed list of recommendations, you’re sure to find the perfect destination. Whether you want to keep it close by or explore a destination overseas, there are plenty of options when it comes to finding your ideal ski resort getaway. So don’t hesitate – to start planning today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

About The Author

Stacey is a freelance writer living in Minnesota with her cat, and she’s passionate about yoga, languages, home improvement, and drinking strong coffee. Find her on Twitter @StaceyShann0n

Fun Nashville Activities to Do with the Whole Family

Nashville is full of fun activities suitable for the whole family. If you’re planning on visiting Music City with your kids, here are some fantastic things you will all enjoy doing.

Hop Aboard a Hop-on-hop-off Bus Tour

One of the first fun activities you should do with your family upon arriving in Nashville is to take a tour of the city.

Doing a hop-on-hop-off bus tour is the best way of taking in the sights, as you can jump off when you see an attraction that grabs your attention or when you want to take a break, and then jump back onto another bus.

There’s accompanying commentary as you ride the bus, too, with helpful tips on things to do and see. Adults and children alike will love exploring the sights, sounds, and smells of Nashville on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

Take a Trip to Nashville Zoo

Seeing creatures up close is the ideal activity for any animal-loving family. At Nashville Zoo, you can see a wide variety of furry mammals like bears and leopards as well as numerous birds and exotic animals.

There are also plenty of outdoor trails to wander. Furthermore, you can learn more about the zoo’s animals by attending an educational talk by a zookeeper.

You can also attend feedings of tortoises and lorikeets. For a little more action, the whole family will enjoy riding the Wilderness Express Train, and some of your family may even want to try riding the long zip line!

Catch a Show at the Grand Ole Opry

You can’t visit Nashville without exploring its music scene. As you would expect in the homeland of country music, you’ll find large venues, small clubs, music museums, and much more.

The most iconic venue is, of course, the Grand Ole Opry. It has been at the heart of country music for nearly a century.

You can check out live country and bluegrass performances that are broadcast on radio and television by both country legends and rising stars. You could even catch a family-friendly comedy event.

Get Caught Up with the Action of a Sporting Event

If there’s one thing that can bring a family together on a vacation, it’s rallying behind a team at a sporting event. Nashville is home to several sports teams.

If you visit between October and April, you could catch the Predators playing hockey. Between August and December, you can watch the Titans playing football. From March to September, the Nashville Sounds play minor league baseball.

Visit the Goo Goo Shop & Dessert Bar

If you haven’t ever eaten a Goo Goo Cluster, you don’t know what you’re missing. Visiting the Goo Goo Shop & Dessert Bar will have to be a part of your Nashville itinerary because even if it isn’t, your kids are sure to force you anyway. Goo Goo Clusters are as tasty as they sound.

Howell Campbell and the Standard Candy Company created the candy bars in 1912 in Nashville.

They contain marshmallows, roasted peanuts, nougat, and caramel, covered in milk chocolate. At the Goo Goo Shop, you can learn about the history of the candy bars and even make your own bars, in addition to sampling some delicious treats.

Take Your Photo with the Waxwork Stars of Madame Tussauds

The whole family is sure to have lots of fun visiting Nashville’s branch of Madame Tussauds. As you would expect for Music City, Nashville’s Madame Tussauds features waxworks of lots of famous musicians; from country music and other genres.

You’ll find waxworks of both music legends and newer stars, so it’s a great way to introduce your children to classic artists they may not yet know, like Jimi Hendrix and Billie Holiday. Other waxworks include Waylon Jenning, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Rihanna, and Taylor Swift.

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New Parents Can Have Amazing Vacations Too

Truth be told, planning family vacations is a challenge in itself. Top that with the struggles of being a new parent and the picture is complete: your next proper holiday will most likely be after your child becomes a teen. Except it doesn’t have to be this way and many young families traveling with their babies and toddlers stand proof to this.

All you need is a little guidance, and the following expert tips and tricks geared to solve your biggest travel problems will make your new family trip so much easier and pleasant.

Problem #1: No Free Time

Taking care of a baby is a full-time job, maybe even multiple jobs at once. This is why you should let experienced holiday planners take care of your itinerary. Travel agencies and reputable resorts can help you as much as you need with flights and connections, hotel stays and catering, as well as daily activities that allow you to relax with your partner, without feeling that your child is neglected even a little bit.

Pro Tip: Travel with your parents or another couple that could take some of the burdens off your shoulders every now and then.

Problem #2: Too Many Costs

You already have to pay for diapers, baby clothes, toys, strollers, and special foods, so a luxurious holiday seems out of the question. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. For instance, if you opt for comprehensive travel packages, like all-inclusive cruises, the overall costs can go down, while also providing you with a unique and worry-free experience.

An option along these lines would be a cruise to Alaska: lots of scenic cruising, whale watching, salmon fishing with friends and family, and exploring glaciers from helicopters (infants allowed!). Plus, Alaskan cruise prices often don’t soar as high as other destinations of the same caliber, where you can kick back, relax and enjoy your family holiday.

Choose a new route every year, as other activities become suitable for your child. For instance, the Junior Ranger program is meant for kids aged 3-16, while a wildlife and bear search would only be suitable after turning 8.

Pro Tip: Ask the travel agency or cruise operator to offer you a kid-friendly package deal.

3 Mistakes to Avoid as a New Parent while Traveling

Don’t put yourself last. Make time for yourself every day, even if it is just for 30 minutes. This is as valid at home as it is on a holiday meant to relieve you from stress.
Don’t neglect your partner. Get outside help with the baby as often as you can, so that the two of you can enjoy much-needed quality time. The parenthood experience can be wonderful, but balance is needed at all times.
Don’t let the moments pass uncharted. Being busy with a baby can make everything seem like a blur, so take lots of photos and videos on your journey and write down memories. They will fill you with joy when you revisit them in the years to come.

Pro Tip: When choosing the family holiday destination, take into account that babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight.

Now you know that you don’t have to sacrifice traveling just because you have a new delicate member to cater to. Enjoy all these moments together as a family and make vacations a travel tradition to pass on to future generations.

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5 Reasons to Take a Summer Road Trip and Best Apps to Simplify It

There is no better time for a road trip than the summer. You can road trip on your own, with good friends or with your significant other. Whether you want to climb the Rockies, dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean, hang out in a small town bar, thrift shop in Brooklyn or visit every state in the country, a road trip will deliver.

Reasons to do a Road trip:

1. No particular destination

You can go as far or as near as your time, ability to sit in a car and gas money will take you. Maybe you want to see some natural beauty such as Oregon’s Crater Lake or the coast of Maine or the Rocky Mountains. Maybe you love cities and want to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and eat Dim Sum in Chinatown.

2. Spontaneity:

Without a plane ticket fixing you to a schedule you can change your travel plans whenever you want. Maybe you met some cool people at the Seattle youth hostel and you want to go hiking with them to Mt. Hood. Or maybe you decided you want to go to obscure Civil War historical museums or follow the Laura Ingalls Wilder trail. Maybe you like quirky food and want to visit food museums such as the Avery Island pepper sauce museum or the mustard museum in Mt. Horeb. On a road trip, you can improvise.

3. The Selfie

How many more selfie’s can you take of yourself in your room, in your house and in your town. On your road trip you can use natural beauty or famous locations as your backdrop. Maybe the steps that Rocky ran up, the ice cream shop where Tony Soprano ate his last meal, the coffee shop where Hannah Horvath worked or the women’s bookstore in Portlandia.

4. Conversation

When you were a teenager you talked for hours with your friends. It is hard to find that kind of time as an adult. On a road trip you will be made of time. Hours in the car. Hours sitting at cafes and bars in new cities. Hours walking on mountain trails. You will have time to share your hopes for your future and your disappointments in your past. You will have time to connect.

5. The Mother of All Playlists

By definition you will spend a great deal of time in the car during a road trip. Radio can keep you company for some of the time, but you will want some good playlists. Check out some travel music ideas via etramping here.

-First the radio. Commercial radio is mostly the same throughout the country. Check out some of the college radio stations or community radio stations to get a regional flavor. If you are an NPR fan you can find them in most places you will go.

-Second the playlist. You definitely want to have good driving tunes for your trip. Everyone has their own opinion of what is good music, so take some time before you leave to craft a few playlists. Here is what TimeOut thinks is good and what someone on BuzzFeed likes for a road trip. If you are newly in love here is a good playlist. If you are newly out of love here is a good playlist.

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