Plan Your Summer Vacation to Gatlinburg #GoGatlinburg
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Plan Your Summer Vacation to Gatlinburg #GoGatlinburg

May 14, 2014 Looking for a great place to spend some time this summer, enjoying the great outdoors and making new family memories? Only a few hours from many southeast cities, the quaint village of Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the kind of special place that you’re destined to want to visit for summers to come. Gatlinburg…

21 Unforgettable Family Adventures on the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Thomas
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21 Unforgettable Family Adventures on the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Thomas

May 20, 2014 This is Part 1 in a series sharing the best of the family-friendly U.S. Virgin Islands. The U.S. Virgin Islands, known for their sandy white beaches and turquoise waters, make for a relaxing and fun-filled family vacation destination. Get ready for plenty of island adventures, including swimming with sea turtles, exploring historical sites…

21 Unforgettable Family Adventures on the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Croix
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21 Unforgettable Family Adventures on the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Croix

June 3, 2014 This is Part 3 in a series sharing the best of the family-friendly U.S. Virgin Islands. The U.S. Virgin Islands, known for their sandy white beaches and turquoise waters, make for a relaxing and fun-filled family vacation destination. Get ready for plenty of island adventures, including swimming with sea turtles,flying on a sea plane…

Border Crossing: Documentation You Need Traveling Alone With Children
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Border Crossing: Documentation You Need Traveling Alone With Children

May 12, 2014 This past fall, I traveled to from Chicago to Toronto with my 13-year-old son, for a quick weekend trip. We both had our passports in hand, and as a travel writer, I’ve traveled frequently with my kids only in tow, so I thought we were good to go. Wrong! When we arrived…

Summer Fun: 12 Family-Friendly Activities in Virginia Beach #VisitVABeach
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Summer Fun: 12 Family-Friendly Activities in Virginia Beach #VisitVABeach

May 29, 2014 With plenty of sun, sand, surf, entertainment and outdoor adventure, Virginia Beach is an ideal vacation destination for kids of any age, making it easy for the whole family to “Live the Life.” Whether you live on the East Coast, or are considering heading there soon, Virginia Beach is definitely a place…

21 Unforgettable Family Adventures on the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. John
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21 Unforgettable Family Adventures on the U.S. Virgin Islands: St. John

May 27, 2014 This is Part 2 in a series sharing the best of the family-friendly U.S. Virgin Islands. The U.S. Virgin Islands, known for their sandy white beaches and turquoise waters, make for a relaxing and fun-filled family vacation destination. Get ready for plenty of island adventures, including swimming with sea turtles,flying on a sea plane…

Visiting Idaho: Natural Attractions, Thrill Seekers, and Family Fun.
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Visiting Idaho: Natural Attractions, Thrill Seekers, and Family Fun.

June 3, 2014 Many people dream about heading to California for some surf and sun during summer break. Or perhaps they want to visit New York City for a tour of all the Broadway shows. Perhaps even a jaunt to Florida to visit the theme parks. But what about the lesser-traveled states? We’re starting a…

Extended Family Vacations: 5 Tips to Keep the Peace
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Extended Family Vacations: 5 Tips to Keep the Peace

June 19, 2014 Spending time with our families can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The shared history and bonding time can make everything feel that much more important.  The downside is that, while family can be your closest ally, it can also begin to feel like they are your worst enemy.  It’s only natural that, if…

Orangutans & Terra Cotta Warriors: Two Reasons to Plan a Road Trip to Indianapolis This Summer
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Orangutans & Terra Cotta Warriors: Two Reasons to Plan a Road Trip to Indianapolis This Summer

July 16, 2014 Have you ever wondered what it might be like to hang out with orangutans or stare down some warriors made of terra cotta? This summer, you can do both in Indianapolis, an educational, fun and family friendly Midwest road trip destination. Here are our top five picks for a fun weekend in…

Visiting Kentucky: Fun from Bourbon to Bluegrass and Beyond
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Visiting Kentucky: Fun from Bourbon to Bluegrass and Beyond

July 21, 2014 Kentucky … the 15th state.  When you hear the word what comes to mind?  Horse racing?  Bluegrass? Perhaps even bourbon?  Kentucky is all of these and so much more. And it’s a great state to explore if you are looking for fun for the entire family. Go Spelunking Caves are exciting for…

6 Great Tips For Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
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6 Great Tips For Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

July 30, 2014 By now, you’ve probably heard about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction at Universal Studios Orlando.  It is considered a must-see for fans and, this summer, some upgrades made it even better. In addition to Hogwarts, they’ve added Diagon Alley and visitors seem to be thrilled about the expansion of the…

Seven Reasons to Turn a Visit to Mall of America into a Weekend Family Getaway
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Seven Reasons to Turn a Visit to Mall of America into a Weekend Family Getaway

September 10, 2014 Mall of America, located in Bloomington, Minnesota – only 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul – makes for a fabulous family weekend getaway. One of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, Mall of America features over 500 stores, 50 restaurants and entertainment attractions galore, including the largest indoor theme…

Traveling With Teens: 7 Hotels and Resorts With Excellent Programs and Activities
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Traveling With Teens: 7 Hotels and Resorts With Excellent Programs and Activities

September 17, 2014 Now that I’m officially the mother of a teenager (yikes!) I’m constantly on the lookout for fun activities and travel destinations that give us a chance to bond as a family. I firmly believe that families that travel together are the families that experience (at least a little bit less) teenage drama….

Top 10 Places to Visit in Thailand: Beauty Awaits
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Top 10 Places to Visit in Thailand: Beauty Awaits

October 2, 2014 If you’re thinking about a trip to Southeast Asia, Thailand should be on your list of countries to visit. Beauty abounds in Thailand, in both beautiful scenery and in man-mad structures. Things to do in Bangkok: Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a city well worth visiting. The city is brimming with programs,…

Meaningful Travel: A Crash Course in Cruising with the Family #ComeBackNew
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Meaningful Travel: A Crash Course in Cruising with the Family #ComeBackNew

October 9, 2014 Anyone who knows me knows that travel is my true passion. My parents were active travelers and took it upon themselves to introduce my sister and I to a world outside of our own, and that drive is something deep seated in me. Like my parents, I want my children to experience this…

Québec Winter Carnival: A Wonder-Filled Family Festival
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Québec Winter Carnival: A Wonder-Filled Family Festival

November 9, 2017 Bundle up and head into the great outdoors this winter to celebrate the chill at the Carnaval de Québec, the biggest and best winter fest in the world. Celebrated annually since 1984, this fab carnival takes place during the days leading up to Fat Tuesday, and promises two weeks of fun, family-centered events. Although…

Social Moms
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Cruising with Gonzalo: Our Adventure Aboard Princess Cruise Lines

October 24, 2014 As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, Princess Cruises was interested in sending us on our first cruise as their guest. We jumped at the chance and our family set out to board the Caribbean Princess around the Eastern Caribbean for a week. We took a redeye flight from San Francisco…

Something For Everyone: Never a Dull Moment Aboard Princess Cruises #ComeBackNew
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Something For Everyone: Never a Dull Moment Aboard Princess Cruises #ComeBackNew

October 28, 2014 After a restful night’s sleep in our cabin, we awoke to the sound of tenders being dropped in the water — we’d made it to Princess Cays, our first destination. Blue skies above. Not a hint of Gonzalo in the air. But that was about to change. Princess Cays is located on…

Rerouted: Sometimes The Best Memories Happen When You Don’t Reach Your Desired Destination.
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Rerouted: Sometimes The Best Memories Happen When You Don’t Reach Your Desired Destination.

October 31, 2014 The next morning, we woke up, fed the kids and headed up to breakfast — the ship seemed to be moving pretty fast as we could feel a bit of engine vibrations. The kids made their way to Kid’s Club, and my husband and I were off to take a yoga class…

5 Ways to Make Holiday Travel Easier While You’re Pregnant
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5 Ways to Make Holiday Travel Easier While You’re Pregnant

November 4, 2014 It’s that time of year again. Everyone is getting ready for the big holiday travel frenzy and, while it can be daunting for anyone, it can be especially tough for the expectant mother.  Some may choose to keep it low-key and stay home during this special time but others want to venture…

Three Magical Places to Spend the Holidays
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Three Magical Places to Spend the Holidays

November 10, 2014 Where will your family spend the holidays this year? At Aunt Betty’s in Baltimore? Uncle Harold’s in Harrisburg? Over the river and through the woods at Grandma’s House? Why not create a new holiday tradition and travel to an altogether different destination? Here are three locations that will get you in the spirit of…

Give the Gift of Travel: 7 Black Friday and Cyber Monday Family Travel Deals
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Give the Gift of Travel: 7 Black Friday and Cyber Monday Family Travel Deals

November 24, 2014 Looking to escape the winter cold and snow but worried about breaking the bank? Or are you dreaming of hitting the slopes with your family, learning to ski and drinking hot cocoa fireside at a luxe resort? Thankfully, family focused resorts and hotels are getting in on the Black Friday and Cyber…

Escape the Winter: Luxe Family Friendly Resorts
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Escape the Winter: Luxe Family Friendly Resorts

December 2, 2014 Husband and wife, James and Tamara Lohan, founded Mr & Mrs Smith more than ten years ago after enduring a few disastrous weekend getaways when they were first dating. Today, the Mr & Mrs Smith collection has more than 900 “Smith Approved” hotels around the world, with in-depth reviews that aim to help urban travelers get the…

Winter Car Safety: 15 Rules for Traveling By Car Over the Holidays
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Winter Car Safety: 15 Rules for Traveling By Car Over the Holidays

December 15, 2014 Winter travel by car calls for extra precautions and safety measures. With gas prices down, more families are choosing to battle the snow and sleet instead of congested airports and expensive airfare. If you plan on being on the road over the holidays, follow these fifteen simple rules to ensure that you’re…

6 Festivals That Bring Out the Best of Winter
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6 Festivals That Bring Out the Best of Winter

January 12, 2015 Don’t let cabin fever get the best of you. A winter carnival is the perfect excuse to get outdoors and into the swing of the season. Don your best and brightest winter gear and head outdoors to celebrate the chill with these six spectacular winter festivals:  January  St. Paul’s Winter Carnival invites…

Valentine’s Day for Singles: 5 Options for a Fab Solo Weekend Escape
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Valentine’s Day for Singles: 5 Options for a Fab Solo Weekend Escape

February 2, 2015 Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to rekindle romance… or celebrate single life! Nothing beats a long weekend away, whether you’re married … or not. Here are five options for a fab solo weekend escape. Miami, FL Miami is an ideal spot to spend a fun solo weekend away, and the Thompson…

What’s New at Disney World in 2015
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What’s New at Disney World in 2015

February 9, 2015 2015 will see many changes in the happiest place on Earth. Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando is constantly evolving, with outstanding new attractions added every year. Grab your favorite kids and get ready for an unforgettable trip. Here’s what’s new at Disney World for 2015. Customizable MagicBands MagicBands revolutionized the park…

Five Must-Dos for a Fab Girlfriends’ Getaway to Chicago
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Five Must-Dos for a Fab Girlfriends’ Getaway to Chicago

February 17, 2015 Chicago – with its wealth of luxe hotels, spas, boutiques and hot dining spots – is the place to reconnect with your pals. You’ll return recharged and refreshed and ready to tackle your busy, modern-day life once again, with a renewed joie de vivre. Dine, shop, and laugh your stress away with these…

Get Ready to Travel: 6 Hot Destinations for Spring Break 2015
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Get Ready to Travel: 6 Hot Destinations for Spring Break 2015

March 24, 2015 It’s hard to believe that it’s that time of year again but spring break is here. Even if you don’t specifically travel for yearly holiday, spring is a great time of year to dust off your suitcase and embark on an adventure. Just remember that many other people have the same idea,…

5 Places That Promise a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration to Remember
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5 Places That Promise a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration to Remember

March 9, 2015 Everyone’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day! But some places know how to celebrate better than others. If you’re looking to celebrate the saint who taught the Holy Trinity with a little help from a shamrock, here are five places that promise a St. Patrick’s Day celebration to remember. Spend St. Patrick’s Day in the…

Family Getaway to the Valley of the Sun: Top 10 Things to Do in Phoenix
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Family Getaway to the Valley of the Sun: Top 10 Things to Do in Phoenix

March 30, 2015 The Valley of the Sun, a.k.a. Greater Phoenix, promises warmth, sunshine and plenty of family fun and adventures. Over 500 area hotels guarantee accommodations that fit your family style and budget, and easy and affordable direct flights make it easier than ever to reach the sunshine. Here are the top 10 things…