The countdown is on! We’re just three weeks away from March Break, and for Canadians, that means a large percentage of us will be travelling down south to sunny destinations. If you’re one of the lucky ones who is getting away, have a fruity drink for me, mmmkay?
Now, you know I want you to have the BEST vacation ever, which means that *of course* you should be prepared with the information you need for #HealthyTravels. If you missed our Twitter Party last week, fear not! I’m here to share some of the most important takeaways with you today. …
Travel
Expect Something More: Disney Cruise Line
It’s been just about three weeks since we’ve returned from our Disney Cruise Line vacation… and I’ve only been *this close* to booking another Disney Cruise just about 20 times. It’s true! I’m officially hooked. From the stunning destinations to the superb and spacious accommodations; the unique fine dining to the live Broadway-caliber shows, I’ve found a new way to spend my vacation dollars.
And, I can’t think of a better investment.
Because that’s the crux of the matter, yes? The fact is, when planning a family vacation, your choice is bound to be based on interests, preferences and your total travel budget. And for the first two – interests and preferences – I can assure you that a Disney Cruise Line vacation will easily cover these points. There is authentically something for everyone! (No, seriously, take a look.)
But it’s important for me to address the elephant (possibly Dumbo?) in the room: Why is a Disney Cruise worth your hard-earned vacation dollars? What makes a Disney Cruise different from another cruise line? Why should you consider paying a premium when there are so many last minute “deals” and “promos” offered by competitors?
It’s actually quite simple. With a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you can expect something more. In fact, what’s included in the price of your cruise may surprise you. …
Escaping the Cold? Make a Winter Travel Checklist
For Canadians, escaping the winter is a thing.
And why not? Winter travel down south offers an opportunity to get away from the cold, endure one less week of slush, sleet and snow, and trade windchill values for humidex values. Okay, so it’s not just a thing… for many, it’s a necessity.
Of course, while jetting off to a sunny vacation in the throes of winter is the epitome of awesome, it also presents its own set of challenges that requires some planning ahead. My advice? Make a winter travel checklist! …
Let’s Get Away.
This year, I’ll write about travel. A lot.
I’ll review hotels and resorts and share food pics from restaurants. I’ll cover sun, sand and skiing and will even throw in a staycation to keep things interesting. I’ll RT the heck out of travel posts and photos, talk about Disney obsessively and will probably squeeze in a beach selfie (or ten).
And, I won’t apologize for it.
I won’t be rubbed the wrong way when a well-meaning follower says, “Nice job you have!” I have a very nice job, thank you.
I won’t cringe when a family friend says, “Seriously? Didn’t you just take a vacation?” It was actually a work trip, but yes, I did bring my family along. And yes, we’re leaving again soon.
I won’t be embarrassed to share the news of our upcoming cruise, all-inclusive resort vacation, hotel stay or (insert fabulous travel opportunity here). It’s my job to cover family travel.
And I certainly won’t feel the need to a) stress how hard I’ve worked on my brand and reputation to earn the distinction of working with world-class clients. I won’t disclose b) the hours I’ve spent researching destinations and negotiating travel opportunities, many of which require out-of-pocket expenses. I won’t point out that when I’m travelling, c) I’m not making a paycheck – which means I’ve traded quantitative income in order to give my family experiences that are a direct benefit of a).
Oooh boy. Okay, I’ll stop being all crazy defensive and overly-sensitive starting… now.
My goal this year is to collect memories instead of things. And I never forget for a minute – not even a second – how fortunate I am to be able to choose between the two. My hope is that you’ll come along for the ride this year, following my adventures, social posts, media appearances, etc. – knowing that beyond the glitz and glamour, it’s really just work for me. And if my blog post convinces you to plan your own family vacation… then I’ve done my job well.
Happy travels, everyone!
Everything You Want to Know About Star Wars Day at Sea
My family was hosted by Disney Cruise Line to experience the inaugural Star Wars Day at Sea sailing on the Disney Fantasy. The opinions on this blog, as always, are my own.
Okay, so you’ve seen my (many) Tweets and Instagram posts. And, you’ve come to the conclusion that Star Wars Day at Sea is the coolest. thing. ever. (You don’t have to convince me… I was there!) However, you have questions – which is expected. After all, Star Wars Day at Sea is a brand new offering by Disney Cruise Line, and there is limited information available online. Until now!
Today, I’m here to divulge everything you want to know about Star Wars Day at Sea, based on my first-hand experience during the inaugural sailing on January 9, 2016. I’ll go heavy on the high-level details and light on the spoilers, because I never like to ruin a good surprise. So grab a coffee – and your calendar – because once you go through my Q & A, I promise you’ll be ready to book your own Disney Cruise. …
Multi-Generational Memories
It’s a moment I don’t want to forget.
The rain clouds began to dissipate, revealing a bright sunny day with a promise of the perfect weather Orlando is known for. As we made our way into Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Ryder, my sweet, sensitive 7-year old, beckoned me with his hand.
“I want to look at the castle,” he said.
This is our tradition. Skirting over to the nearest curb to avoid the crowds, I let him drink in the sight of Cinderella’s castle. It didn’t matter that we were too far for an unobstructed view. It didn’t matter that we were pushed together as a steady throng of guests shuffled past us. My entire world was reduced to a little boy, staring in helpless wonder at a fairy tale come to life.
What is he thinking? What does he see? I wondered. Was he imagining himself as the brave prince who fights for the maiden’s honour? Was he envisioning the colourful burst of fireworks that adorn the sky at night? Or did he simply see the castle for what it was – an iconic representation of a place where dreams come true? I had to know. …
Welcome to the Dark Side: The Christening
It happened in the blink of an eye. A brief exchange, a meaningful look. An awakening in the force.
It was the inaugural Star Wars Day at Sea. Just like all guests who opted into character meet and greets, our family was given the opportunity to get up close and personal with our favourite Star Wars heroes and villains. My boys, dressed as Darth Vader (Ryder) and Kylo Ren (Reid), were brimming with anticipation at the chance to take a photo with history’s most famous Sith, Lord Vader.
We waited in a short queue and before long, it was our turn to approach the designated meet and greet area. Reaching into my beach bag for my camera, I suddenly realized that my mini Kylo Ren had approached Lord Vader and was now directly in front of him.
(Warning: Spoilers from Star Wars: The Force Awakens ahead.) …
WDW: Dare You to Find a More Magical Sight.
No matter how old I am… no matter how many times I’ve visited Walt Disney World… there’s something truly, truly special about Cinderella’s castle.
It’s no secret that January is my favourite time to visit Walt Disney World. Perfect park weather, reduced wait times due to lighter crowds, and the piece de resistance: most parks are still outfitted in holiday decor, such as the stunning icicle lights on Cinderella’s castle at Magic Kingdom.
It’s not too late to plan an incredible Walt Disney World vacation! Have a magical day!
A Fantasy Like No Other
It’s the beginning of a new year, and normally, this blog is spilling with news, views and reviews. However, this year is a little bit different. This year, I’m too busy packing.
THREE. MORE. DAYS.
In three days we’ll leave for Orlando, where we’ll embark on the majestic Disney Fantasy cruise ship for the inaugural Star Wars Day at Sea. This sailing marks the first official appearance of the heroes and villains of Star Wars aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship. …
Ten “Must Visit” Canadian Hidden Winter Gems
NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.
Happy New Year! It’s the very first day of a brand new year, and as I look outside at the winter wonderland before me, I couldn’t be more excited! Snow! Beautiful snow.
Canadians are mostly familiar with the popular winter attractions and activities. After all, our nation is a well-known destination for winter travel; from skating on Ottawa’s Rideau Canal to hitting the slopes at Mont Tremblant, our country is rich with opportunities for outdoor fun.
However, beyond these well-known destinations are a number of places just waiting to be discovered. Celebrate the spirit of winter in Canada and explore your own backyard by planning a trip to one of these soon-to-be favourite hidden winter gems. Plus, read on for your chance to win 50,000 IHG Rewards Club Points! That’s enough for a one, two – or even three! – nights stay at one of their 4,900+ properties worldwide. (Or, redeem your points for gift cards or incredible swag! 50,000 IHG Reward Club Points = approximately $500!) …
In the Moment: Tremblant Edition
It was perfectly set up. My boys were to take their very first ski lesson in gorgeous Mont Tremblant while I indulged in a relaxation massage at the Le Westin Resort & Spa. My husband, a novice skier who was keen to introduce our boys to winter sports, was in charge of bringing them to the bunny hill and overseeing their lessons. We had a plan.
“Take pictures!” I said.
“You know I will!” he replied.
However, 15 minutes before my massage commenced, I received a phone call from my husband informing me that he and the boys had been separated into different groups at the hill. “They’ll be okay,” he assured me.
And I knew they would be. They were signed up for private ski lessons and the instructors at Tremblant Snow School are world-class. I knew they were in the best hands possible. Except all of a sudden… I realized what I would be missing. I would miss seeing my boys navigate down a slope on skis for the very first time. I would miss capturing their expressions of satisfaction as they learned a new skill. I would miss an important “first” that I’d never get back. And I didn’t want to do that. I couldn’t believe I hadn’t understood the significance before that moment.
I made a game-time decision to cut 25 minutes off my massage. Throwing on my winter wear and slinging my camera around my neck, I rushed to the bunny hill in time to catch my boys’ first ski lesson, already in progress.
There’s Ryder, a naturally gifted athlete who gained the confidence to go down the hill solo on only his third descent. And there’s Reid, learning to balance and conquer his fear of heights with help from a Snow School instructor. I shouted at them from the sidelines and they looked my way, breaking into huge grins and waving with glee.
It’s a morning I’ll never forget… it’s living in the moment, Tremblant edition.
WDW: May the Force Be With You. (And Also With You.)
(Hands up if you’re Catholic and this *always* comes to mind? Yeah, me too.)
Celebrate, my young Padawans! New Star Wars offerings have landed at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, just in time for Star Wars: The Force Awakens which hits theatres on December 18, 2015. From interactive exhibits to galactic-themed food, discover new and updated Star Wars experiences that bring you closer to the epic saga than ever before.
Now, where do I begin? Grab a “Hoth” chocolate (Get it? Hoth? I kill me!) and settle in, because I’ve been geeking out and can’t wait to share the fan fodder with you! …
Imagine: The Freedom to Travel Anytime, Anywhere.
Sounds blissful, doesn’t it?
For most Canadians, travel is an affordable luxury. With so many destinations, budget options, package deals and ways to book a vacation, a holiday is within reach, even if it’s a staycation in your own city.
But for those struggling with their vacay fund, there’s one foolproof way to ensure well-deserved time off is within reach: reward yourself. With the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card, you can earn THREE (3) TD Points for every $1 you spend on purchases using your Card – that’s a return of up to 1.5% on your purchases!
And, if you apply by January 4, 2016 and are approved, you could get this special welcome offer:
– A Welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Points when you make your first purchase with the Card – that’s worth $100 in travel savings through Expedia For TD
– A $150 credit from Expedia For TD when you make a travel purchase of $150 or more through Expedia For TD using your Card by June 15, 2016
Now that you know how to make travel a possibility, let’s inspire you with where to go and what to do! Join the @TD_Canada #TDInfiniteTravel Twitter Chat on November 19, 2015 at 8PM EST!
In addition to a fun travel chat with a “Travel Anywhere, Anytime” theme, we’ll also be giving away 5 (five) Amazon.ca gift codes valued at $50 each. There’s no RSVP for this chat; simply tweet to win!
Travelling this Winter? Make Screening a Breeze!
My family is no stranger to airports. In fact, I think of myself as somewhat of an expert on the subject of family travel. Yes, we’ve survived plane delays. Yes, I’ve prepared for mid-flight meltdowns. No, I haven’t figured out how to ditch the kids for a glass of champagne in business class (working on it).
The weather outside may be frightful, but travelling this winter can be delightful! Whether you’re packing for a winter wonderland with the kids or escaping the cold, these tips from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will make airport security a breeze.
1. Pack liquids, aerosols and gels properly: Only liquids, aerosols and gels that are 100ml or less are permitted in your carry-on. Place these items in a single 1L clear, resealable plastic bag so the screening officer can easily see the contents. Any containers over 100ml should be placed in your checked baggage.
2. Know the age restrictions for baby food: Beverages and food (e.g. breast milk, formula, juice, purées) for children under the age of two are exempted from the liquid, aerosol and gel restrictions. These items should be packed so that they can easily be removed for inspection.
3. Bring solid snacks for the family: While you can’t bring yogurt or peanut butter, you can carry solid food items, such as sandwiches, granola bars and fruit through security when travelling within Canada. You can also bring a refillable drink container to refill once you pass through security.
4. Have medications ready for inspection: Prescription and essential non-prescription medications (e.g. cough syrup, decongestant spray, contact lens solution) are allowed. You can bring them in quantities greater than 100 ml in your carry-on but must show these items to the screening officer for inspection.
5. Leave gifts unwrapped: If you’re bringing gifts, leave them unwrapped as their contents may need to be inspected. During the holidays, some airports offer post-security gift wrapping service. …
Paradise Found: The Islands of The Bahamas Bucket List
… and then they found their way to Paradise, where they abandoned their troubles, sipped the nectar of gods and swam with pigs. (That’s not a typo. More on the ‘Official Home of the Swimming Pigs’ below!)
For millions of Canadians, The Bahamas is on their travel bucket list.
Set in the breathtaking turquoise and azure waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, The Islands of The Bahamas are a group of over 700 islands boasting some of the world’s most beautiful beaches – graced with perpetual sunshine and warm balmy breezes.
I’ve longed to visit The Bahamas. Interestingly, my husband and I had planned to honeymoon at one of their scenic, enchanting islands – only to cancel our vacation when I became violently ill from morning sickness just weeks after our wedding.
(Yes, we had a ‘honeymoon baby”… we just never made it to the actual honeymoon!)
So, you could say that I’ve been drafting my Bahama Islands Bucket List ever since; we hope to turn those plans into reality in the near future. And today, I’m happy to share what’s at the top of my list! …
A Plane SO Cool… It’s Frozen!
When I buckled the boys into their car seats on Sunday morning, I had a vague idea about our final destination.
Where are we going, mommy?
Is it a party? A Sunday morning party?
Will there be kids? Will there be kids? Is it far?
Are we there yet? (Asked at 2 minute intervals, of course)
Thankfully, our rendezvous was less than a half hour away. And as we pulled up to the WestJet hangar, my intuition spiked into overdrive.
This is going to be amazing, I whispered to my husband.
Inside, the excitement was palpable. Adults and children alike buzzed with anticipation, constantly checking the time and willing it to inch forward to the 10:00AM event start. A large curtain, ominously descending from the ceiling, veiled our eyes from what was surely the star attraction, hidden for the time being. And finally, as Bob Cummings, WestJet Executive Vice-President, took the stage, the audience surged together and leaned forward.
“Two years ago, we launched the #MagicPlane, our first Disney-themed aircraft, and no matter where it flies throughout our network, it is the most-anticipated and most-photographed aircraft in WestJet history. Today, we are proud to team up with our great friends at Disney to create a sequel like no other.”
Introducing the Disney Frozen Themed Plane.
I won’t hesitate to admit that the hairs on the back of my neck stood up straight with excitement. The plane, so painstakingly detailed, brings Disney’s Frozen to life by marrying art and aviation in a way that speaks to the child in all of us. From Olaf’s adorable invitation to join him on the beach to Elsa and Anna’s celebration of sisterhood and snow (I truly believe Elsa’s spell adds tailwind to speed the aircraft along), the plane promises to be yet another star in WestJet’s already magical fleet.
Let’s get a little closer, shall we? (Click here to view my live tweets from the event.) …
Your Best Disney Vacation: How to Stretch a Weak Dollar
It’s the most magical glow.
It’s a particular warmth you feel after returning from a Walt Disney World or Disneyland vacation, led by the intense desire to do it all over again. In fact, immediately upon returning from a visit to the most magical place on earth, I begin planning our next vacation! And since we returned from Disneyland Resort just two weeks ago, you can guess what’s currently taking up my time – yep, consulting calendars for 2016’s epic adventure.
Addicted? I like to think I’m converted. Because now, I prefer to only vacation at world class resorts with world class theme parks. What’s wrong with that? You only live once!
Of course, one of the most frequent questions I’ve been asked since I announced our getaway is:
“How can I afford a Disney vacation with the falling Canadian dollar?”
To all those who’ve emailed or messaged me, thanks for your interest! The truth is, my Visa statement was indeed impacted by the weaker dollar; I’m not going to sugarcoat it. You need to plan ahead for increased prices. However, has that stopped me from wanting to do it all over again? NEVER! Because I have a great handle on how to stretch a weak dollar for an incredible Disney vacation. And today, I’m happy to share my best tips with you! …
Dining Out: Mont Tremblant Edition
I’ve been holding out on you guys.
You see, for the past little while, I’ve had these gorgeous food photos on my phone, just waiting to be shared. But life is hectic, and this summer has been one for the books. So, they’ve just been sitting here, buried in a folder, begging to see the light of day.
And no one puts Poutine in a folder.
The sinfully delicious concoction above – a must-do when in Quebec – can be found at La Forge Bistro-Bar Mont Tremblant, THE place to have an après-ski drink or a delicious seasonal meal on the terrace overlooking Place St-Bernard. I opted for the Classique (cheese and gravy) because I’m a traditionalist at heart, but you can just as easily indulge in Saucisse fumée tout bœuf C.A.B. (smoked C.A.B. all-beef sausage), Viande hachée et oignons caramélisés (ground beef and caramelized onions) or Bœuf effiloché (house smoked beef brisket, pepper sauce, onion rings and fried pickles)….
Can You Experience the World… Without Leaving the Country?
Disclosure: I received IHG Rewards Club points towards a hotel stay and this post. The opinions on this blog, as always, are my own.
Okay, so maybe you’ll never be able to effectively recreate eating pizza in Italy or taking in a safari expedition in Tanzania. However, for a large portion of Canadians, worldly adventures are often out of reach financially. In fact, one of the key responses from readers of my blog is that they’d like to duplicate family travel adventures – but on a smaller scale, and at a lower cost.
According to a recent survey of Canadians conducted by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG):
1. The majority (78%) of respondents don’t consider two days long enough to unwind, and suggest their ideal holiday should be longer than three days. However, it’s often difficult to plan a trip abroad for extended periods due to cost constraints. Finding an equivalent destination in Canada means your money (and vacation) is stretched farther.
2. 38% of respondents suggested they would most like to vacation with their partner – time to focus on each other. In order to compound “us time”, it’s beneficial to stay within Canada, as flights to destinations are often shorter. Therefore, you spend less time getting to your vacation spot, and more time enjoying your vacation.
3. The survey results suggest that the top three ultimate summer vacation destinations in Canada according to Canadians are British Columbia (33%), Ontario (18%) and Quebec (15%). Are you ready to start planning your adventure?
Today, I’d love to share coast-to-coast travel destinations that will allow you to experience the world without leaving the country. …
The Happiest Party on Twitter: #DisneyTBT
If you’ve ever gazed upon Cinderella’s castle, held Mickey Mouse’s hand or took a journey under the sea with Ariel, you’ll know the power of Disney vacation memories.
Tell me, what is your favourite Disney throwback?
I admit that one of my favourite ways to de-stress is going through photos from past Disney vacations. Nine out of ten times, it inspires me to book my next one! And as long as my boys believe in the power of wishing upon a star, we’ll be sure to return to the place where dreams come true.
A request: Find your very best Disney vacation photos. Mark Thursday, August 13th, 2015 at 8PM EDT on your calendar.
Today, at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, you can experience the magic with your entire family. Disney Parks Cast Members deliver one-of-a-kind experiences to millions of guests annually, and if you’ve been planning a family vacation to this world-class entertainment and recreation center, this one’s for you –
I’m pleased to invite you to the #DisneyTBT Twitter Party, on Thursday, August 13th at 8PM EDT. It will be a fast-paced, fun-filled party where we want to see your very best Throwback Thursday photos… Disney-style! Share your park pictures, thrill-ride stills, poses with characters, or show us your throwback Disney-themed toys or costumes. The possibilities are endless! …