Travel

Must Do Disney: 2022 Edition

August 9, 2022 By Lena Leave a Comment

Before 2020, Walt Disney World and I were faithful buddies.

I popped in for a visit several times a year, and Disney rewarded me with a good time and great memories. In fact, in September 2019, I celebrated my 20th visit to Walt Disney World and my first visit without the kids! Yep, my husband and I ditched our offspring for an adults-only vacation. We visited Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and ate around Epcot and took advantage of every minute of extra magic hours. My boys were flabbergasted that we left them behind, but I promised that we’d all be back for our family vacation in March 2020.

MARCH 2020! Oops.

In fact, we didn’t go back, and it would be a full two years – and two cancelled Disney vacations later – that we were finally able to experience the most magical place on earth. In June, we spent five incredible days rekindling our love for classic attractions, enchanting fireworks, over-the-top food and beloved Disney characters.
Was it worth the wait? YES.
Would I do it again? HECK YES.
Was it… different? Yeah, yeah it was. …

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Virtual Queue Strategies

June 13, 2022 By Lena Leave a Comment

Are you ready to take off on an intergalactic chase through space and time? It’s finally here: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind launched at EPCOT on May 27th, and believe me when I say the hype is REAL. From the thrilling ride pre-show to Disney’s first-ever reverse launch, this full-enclosed coaster is the newest innovation from Walt Disney Imagineering. We experienced the ride last week thanks to a well-timed family vacation, and there’s only one word for me to describe it: OBSESSED!
At the time of publication (June 13, 2022), you have two options available to experience the attraction: joining the virtual queue (no additional fee) or purchasing an individual Lightning Lane entry. That’s right: there is currently no standby line available, nor can you schedule a Lightning Lane entry using the Genie+ service. While both available options are pretty straightforward, there are are few strategies that can help you snag a spot in the virtual queue for this wildly popular ride. Read on! …

Despite the Pandemic, You Should be Planning Your Next Trip

December 18, 2020 By Lena Leave a Comment

Travel may not be top of mind at the moment, but my good friend Barry Choi, Personal Finance and Travel Expert, offers a convincing argument why this is the best time to plan a trip. Read on for some valuable advice on how to maximize your travel dollars.
Although the pandemic has reduced the number of flights available, and most people have no interest in travelling if there’s no vaccine for COVID-19, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be planning your next trip now.

It’s true that no one has any real idea of when travel will get back to normal, but by planning now, you can take advantage of some great deals. You can even turbocharge your savings by planning out your spending and taking advantage of some great welcome bonuses that come with the best travel credit cards in Canada. …

Your 2020 Last Minute Getaway: Where, When and Why to Go!

March 3, 2020 By Lena 1 Comment

It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of last minute vacations. It’s honestly one of my favourite ways to travel! In fact, in 2019, I helped friends and family NOT-plan five family vacations – all booked with less than a month’s notice (and all beautiful, memorable getaways).
If you’re fortunate to have flexibility in your work and home life, here’s why last minute vacations are a great option:

1) You’ll save money. Of course you’ll save money – it’s the main reason they’re called last minute “deals”. With Air Canada Vacations, you can save up to 40% on packages to Mexico, the Caribbean, South and Central America, the US and many more vacation destinations. …

This Holiday Season, Give a Priceless Experience

December 7, 2019 By Lena 1 Comment

“Experiences, Not Things.” The saying was etched in sparkly red letters on a plush white throw pillow, carefully positioned on an elegant chair in a store window. I recall stopping in front of the small store, staring at the pillow while pondering the words before me.

Experiences, not things.

The moment was particularly poignant because just hours before, I had engaged in a discussion with my girlfriend about how travel is the perfect gift. You see, it’s actually three gifts in one:

1) The gift of anticipation. Planning a trip with friends and family fosters closeness and offers a continuous build in excitement! From the moment you start thinking about booking a trip to the last-minute discussions about wardrobe, you’re on a happy high anticipating your great adventure.

2) The gift of experience. These include the sights you see, the foods you eat, and of course, the laughs you share with loved ones. Often, experiences also involve discovering a new country, culture or customs, which make them all the more enriching!

3) The gift of memories. Going through your camera roll; sharing an inside joke with a friend (“what happens in…”) or finding a ticket stub in your jacket pocket. You relive the moment all over again, hanging on to the good times until you start the cycle all over again.

This is why we choose experiences over things.

Of course, there are experiences, and then there are Priceless Experiences. Whether you’re booked to travel abroad or prefer to stay closer to home, Priceless Cities is available exclusively to Mastercard cardholders and provides access to unforgettable experiences around the world.
The best part is, there’s something for everyone! Enjoy a glass of prosecco and a behind-the-scenes kitchen tour at the hottest restaurant near you or play golf with a PGA pro while staying at a world-renowned resort and spa. You can even skip the line at a popular theatre show or take a hands-on donut workshop! …

Vacay Ready: Travel Essentials

November 25, 2019 By Lena Leave a Comment

Sure, I know a thing or two about travelling. We travel as a family, on average, eight times per year! And with 10 trips already in the books, we’re maintaining our nomadic lifestyle in 2019.
I’m often interviewed or asked to provide tips for my favourite travel essentials. Over the years, I’ve amassed quite a collection of “must haves”. Today, I’m sharing my top picks with you! …

Multigenerational Travel Spotlight: Kissimmee, Florida 

October 29, 2019 By Lena 1 Comment

I have a travel bucket list; it’s true. There are places that I’ve yet to visit and I know that I’ll eventually get there. But in the meantime, I have a more pressing need – and it’s not a place, it’s a scenario. It’s a multigenerational family vacation; the chance to have my sons experience a holiday with their grandparents. Truly, nothing would make me happier.

Multigenerational travel is becoming more and more popular as families try to carve out quality time together. Especially around the holidays, as families gather and enjoy each other’s company, it’s only natural to want to extend those feelings of happiness and discuss a family vacation.

However, most often these trips can be decided rather spontaneously (sometimes, after copious amounts of food and drink) and there is a lack of communication through the planning process. If you’re planning a multigenerational family vacation, here are my top tips to ensure that everyone in the family, from young to young-at-heart – has a great time!

1. Make sure to clearly outline expectations when it comes to who’s paying, and what they’re paying for.

Occasionally, the grandparents will say “We’ll pay for the family vacation!” – but they’ll fail to define what that includes. For example, when travelling to an all-inclusive resort, that may include flights and accommodations. But what happens when dear daughter-in-law wants to visit the hotel spa? Get together those travelling and be upfront about financial responsibilities. Often, the easiest way is for everyone to pay their way separately, but if one person wants to play Santa, set clear expectations for what will be covered.
(Also, no IOU’s! If you can’t afford to make the family vacay, stay drama-free by staying home.) …

Ya Mon! Families First at Beaches Ocho Rios

October 21, 2019 By Lena 3 Comments

Heads up, Canadians! Read on for a limited time promo with Air Canada Vacations: for bookings made before October 31, 2019, use code BEACHES to save $200 per booking with no minimum spend, valid on any Beaches property in Jamaica. Further details follow.
There are many things I look for when reviewing family-friendly sun destinations, and for the most part, Caribbean resorts have elevated their offerings to meet the expectations of discerning Canadian vacationers. Therefore, when I find a resort that goes over and above to deliver an exceptional experience at a comparably excellent value, I am more than happy to sing its praises.

At the moment, that resort is Beaches Ocho Rios, Jamaica. …

Fall in Love with The Westin Ottawa

October 10, 2019 By Lena Leave a Comment

Fall, besides being my favourite season, is also my favourite time to take a road trip! The cooler weather makes long drives more comfortable; the changing leaves offer a breathtaking backdrop, and the absence of humidity ensures I’ll have better hair days. (Okay, so the last one has nothing to do with road trips.)

We were recently invited by The Westin Ottawa to experience the family-friendly features of their hotel, and we happily accepted! Ottawa is only about a 4-hour drive from the Greater Toronto Area, making it an easy option for weekend getaways. I did some light research about the hotel and its amenities before we arrived, just to have an understanding of how we could pass the time while there.

Translation: I had expectations.
Spoiler alert: Those expectations were exceeded.
Here are three reasons to fall in love with The Westin Ottawa. …

Start Something Priceless! The Surprise Getaway

September 25, 2019 By Lena 1 Comment

We are a family of travellers. Since 2012, we’ve taken over 100 trips together – exploring, learning, bonding, creating. In fact, the most enriching experiences I’ve had as a parent center around introducing my children to new cultures and cuisines. Family travel is awesome.

However, it was time to bid the kids adieu and TAKE A REAL GROWNUP VACATION!
My husband and I were (over) due for some alone time. Months ago, I started researching quick getaways where we could leave for a few days without overly disrupting the boys’ schedule or putting too much pressure on my mother-in-law (who would be looking after them in our absence). I kept everything a secret from my husband, mostly because I didn’t want to get his hopes up just in case I couldn’t pull something together. …

Summer Camp by the Sea: Tips for a Safe Family Vacation 

June 10, 2019 By Lena Leave a Comment

Winter, second winter, spring (ish)…. and GO! The warm weather is almost here and for many Canadian families, that means the coveted summer travel season is about to begin! Especially if you’re vacationing down south this summer, here are my best tips for ensuring that your travel plans go swimmingly (see what I did there?) and in the safest manner possible.
1. Take the time to research your destination. Sure, you’ll want to do the basic things, like scoping out the accommodations, dining options and recreational activities. However, especially when travelling with young ones, you’ll need to do a little bit of a deeper dive. …

A Look Ahead to Summer Travel: Dream of Europe! 

May 30, 2019 By Lena Leave a Comment

I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Each year, the first Monday after March Break is marked off on my calendar. I clear my schedule, drop my laptop in my handbag and make my way to my favourite local coffee shop. When the morning’s pressing emails are answered, a latte is in front of me and I’ve scanned the bakery case to decide on my afternoon treat, I dive into summer vacation planning.But it’s only March! you’re thinking. Friends, it’s the PERFECT time to plan – especially if you’re considering a family vacation to Europe, which has never been hotter (or more attainable) for family travels. Barcelona, London, and Lisbon have gained reputations for being flawlessly kid-friendly, and when you book with Air Canada Vacations, they’ll do the planning for you! Vacation packages feature a family-centric itinerary and include flights, accommodations and private airport transfers – in addition to excursions, some meals, and more! (Be sure to review the package inclusions as each package offers a unique customized experience and varies from country to country.)   …

Dreaming of Hawaii? Here’s How to Make it Come True 

December 30, 2018 By Lena 18 Comments

When I first started to think about this post, I had decided to craft a list of reasons “why” you should visit Hawaii. However, I realized pretty quickly that I was essentially stating the obvious; of course you want to visit Hawaii. Of course you know the reasons why. Besides the lush greenery, the remarkable hospitality of its inhabitants and the over 750 miles of pristine shoreline, Hawaii has been and always will be a bucket list travel destination. So, wanting to turn your dream of Hawaii into reality, let’s focus on the “how” – specifically, how to plan for a family vacation to the Aloha state, and how to do it seamlessly with Air Canada Vacations.
1. When to Travel. Great news, especially for family travellers: year round, the temperature in Hawaii remains relatively stable, so you can choose to travel when it makes the most sense for you. While the islands have a drier season (summer) and a wetter season (winter), the sun shines almost every day of the year so your vacation shouldn’t be impacted by precipitation. My family visited Maui and Oahu in the month of November, and save for one morning where it rained for just over an hour, the rest of the time we spent (10 days) was sunny and clear with low humidity. …

Cruise Views: 10 Reasons to Escape with Norwegian Cruise Line

September 19, 2018 By Lena 28 Comments

When the scent of pumpkin spice lattes and the allure of pretty blanket scarves grows old, Canadians are left with… cold weather. Time to start planning that vacation down south, eh?

For many of us, deciding where to go and what to do – and then having the entire family agree on the itinerary – can add stress to the planning process. But what if I told you that you the perfect vacation awaits? Start the car… no, really, START THE CAR!
Here are 10 reasons to Escape with Norwegian Cruise Line.

1. Proximity to the GTA. Norwegian Escape, voted 2017 Ship of the Year by Ocean & Cruise News, sails out of the Manhattan Cruise Terminal (only about an 8-hour drive from the Greater Toronto Area – very road trip friendly). Saving money on flights puts vacation dollars back in your wallet – which means you can splurge on excursions, on-board amenities or the ever-popular Ultimate Beverage Package! …

This Season, Fall in Love with Mexico

September 5, 2018 By Lena 15 Comments

See what I did there? FALL? I know, I’m hilarious!

Now that the kids have returned to school, pumpkin spice is everywhere and temperatures will inevitably return to (gasp) single digits, there’s no better time to start planning your next family getaway. Whether it’s tacked onto a long weekend in the coming months or over the winter holidays, a little planning is key when it comes to picking the perfect resort. So grab a PSL, huddle under a shaggy throw and get ready to fall in love with Mexico!
But, why Mexico? Let me count the ways:

1. Take advantage of daily flights from Toronto (and twice daily from October 28 – April 23!) with Air Canada Vacations. That means you can customize your family vacay to suit your schedule, tastes and budget; pop down for an extended weekend getaway or take a classic 7-day all-inclusive vacation. Mexico is conveniently a 4-hour flight from Toronto, so the choice is yours – plus, save BIG when you package your hotel and flights. …

Air Canada: Family Travel Made Family-Friendly

July 25, 2018 By Lena 13 Comments

2013 – the year I was first dubbed a “Family Travel Expert” in the media. At the time, I blushed at the title, feeling undeserving of the accolades and self-conscious of my resume. Today, five years and 46 family trips later, I’m more than at peace with the designation.

There’s no doubt about it: we’re a family of travellers.
To be assured, family travel isn’t without its challenges. In addition to the obvious chores such as booking, planning, organizing, packing and managing the day-to-day responsibilities while away, vacationing with kids means that I’m also coordinating missed schoolwork, staying on top of in-flight entertainment, declining (several) requests to buy candy and accepting (several more) requests for snacks.

In short, my carry-on baggage are 8 and 10 years old – and don’t always stay where I’ve stowed them. …

Mind. Blown: Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

July 21, 2018 By Lena 22 Comments

If you’re currently in planning mode for a Walt Disney World vacation, I’m going to insist that you stop what you’re doing, grab a cup of tea and settle in for some valuable reading time. Trust me! Because I’m about to tell you all about a hidden gem located in the very heart of the excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort. It offers its own unique benefits and also piggybacks on many of the benefits of staying on site.

It’s the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, an Air Canada Vacations partner hotel.To be absolutely transparent, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is owned by Marriott International. So while the hotel is located on site, it operates slightly differently from other Disney-owned properties. By the end of this post, I promise that likely won’t be a deal-breaker for you. …

Summer FUN with AIR MILES!

July 20, 2018 By Lena 6 Comments

It’s just about the midpoint of summer and I know some mamas are currently in the same boat:

1) The kids are bored. They’ve told us they’re bored. We know they’re bored.

2) The ratio of play time to screen time, previously planned to be about 75:25, has slowly crept up in favour of screen time. The ratio’s about 10:90 now, let’s just be honest.

3) You’d love to plan a family outing, but it’s not always easy (read: affordable) to do everything you want on a limited budget.

And to that I say… AIR MILES Summer Fun to the rescue!
Three cheers for the best time of year! There are tons of things you can see and do with the fam this summer using your Dream Miles. In fact, there’s more selection than ever for Dream Rewards under 1000 Miles, in addition to “show your card” perks where you’ll get instant savings on merchandise and experiences. This is in line with AIR MILES’ ongoing commitment to Canadians to offer new ways in which they bring Collectors closer to what matters to them! …

Setting Priorities: How to Save for Next Year’s Family Vacation

July 10, 2018 By Lena 238 Comments

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of EQ Bank. As always, all opinions are my own.

The probability you have some money set aside for a future vacation? Medium.
The probability you’ll spend that money before you book your vacation? High.

It happens much too often, I’m afraid: you’ve saved for a hard-earned, long-awaited family vacation, but before you can book the getaway you deserve… the money is spent.

Look, I’m not pointing fingers here. Usually, it’s due to an emergency financial situation, like a leaky roof, car repair, etc. And I understand – life happens. But the thing about withdrawing money from your vacation fund to pay for the unexpected means that you’ve effectively prioritized everything else over your family time together. While, in the short term, it can address an immediate concern and perhaps keep you out of debt, in the long term, forgoing time to rest, relax and recharge can be even more taxing to your health and happiness.
The bottom line: make sure your vacation funds are spent on your family vacation. …

Your Summer Family Destination: Niagara-on-the-Lake!

July 9, 2018 By Lena 20 Comments

My husband and I celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary this past weekend! I’d say that time flies but it feels like an understatement; somewhere along the way we collected a couple of kids, a home or two, and hundreds (thousands?) of incredible memories I’ll always hold dear.

Last year, for our 10th, we returned to Niagara-on-the-Lake where we were married. At the time, we couldn’t envision making the destination “family friendly” – but perhaps that’s just because all our memories tied to region were pre-kids. However, when invited to check out a new adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s The Magician’s Nephew at The Shaw Festival, and scanning over a masterfully-planned itinerary, we quickly realized that we can enjoy our favourite getaway as a family! Here’s how to spend a magical weekend in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
1. What to Do: See The Magician’s Nephew by Michael O’Brien.

The synopsis:

“Tricked into using his Uncle Andrew’s (Steven Sutcliffe) enchanted rings, young Digory (Travis Seetoo) and his new friend Polly (Vanessa Sears) stumble into a magical portal that takes them to other worlds. Before returning home to Victorian London, they travel to the desolate world of Charn and unwittingly unleash Queen Jadis (Deborah Hay), a malevolent sorceress bent on domination. With the assistance of Aslan (Kyle Blair), Digory must undertake a valiant quest to the mysterious locked garden that holds the key to defeating evil and defending the new world of Narnia.” …