Travel

Inspired to Travel? Get $250 Closer to Your Dream Vacay

August 3, 2015 By Lena

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

If you haven’t noticed the influx of travel posts on my blog lately, then you haven’t been paying attention. (Tsk, tsk.) The thing is, the whole point of accepting family trips, taking photos non-stop and then sharing our experiences is to inspire you, my readers, to take your own dream vacation!
11326439_391282444403300_2002966964_n Of course, I realize that sometimes, it’s easier said than done. So, I’m here to help! Courtesy of my friends at TD Canada, here’s your chance to win a $250 Visa Gift Card! Now *I know* you could be totally boring and use it on groceries or a new rug for the family room, but I sincerely hope that you’ll put it towards travel. Go somewhere! Do something! …

17 Things to Love about San Antonio

July 30, 2015 By Lena

As many of y’all know, I recently earned the opportunity to be a Texas Traveller! Alas, after a family illness, we weren’t able to take the trip. So, I did the next best thing – I enlisted fellow fabulous #FamilyTravelCA member Andrea Traynor from Mommy Gearest to experience Texas on my behalf! Take it away Andrea!

I can’t say that San Antonio was on my bucket list. But having recently spent three days there, standing in for Lena, it should have been. And it should have been way up there on the list, too.
SanAntonio - RiverWalk1 Because San Antonio, Texas is simply, fabulous. Rich in history, it boasts world-class restaurants that even the most discerning foodies will appreciate, is a retail-therapy dream and caters to just about any kind of traveller (doing well in both the romance and action-packed activity departments).

There’s a lot to love about this city in the southwest, y’all. Here are 17 things that’ll make you want to book your own bucket-list visit. …

Joie de Vivre: Summer Sizzles at Mont Tremblant

July 30, 2015 By Lena

Friends, welcome to the middle of summer.

The point where you’re either congratulating yourself for enjoying a month of heated freedom… or, feverishly trying to save the remainder of a not-so-memorable half season. If you’re in the latter camp, I’ve got the solution for you.

What if I told you that you could experience an unforgettable mountain getaway and enjoy a multitude of summer activities? And, that this getaway was easily accessible to Ontarians – in fact, only 1-hr away from downtown Toronto?

From outdoor sports to live entertainment, spa to beach, Mont Tremblant has it all.
IMG_3146a We all recognize Tremblant as a world-class winter destination. However, it’s also the perfect summer spot for families of all sizes, offering endless outdoor activities, sublime dining experiences, thrilling adventures and a unique opportunity to connect with nature.

Here’s how to spend 48 hours with your family in Mont Tremblant, Quebec. …

Vacationing with Kids? Piece of Cake.

July 23, 2015 By Lena

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

The original concept for this post was to share my very best tips for vacationing with kids. After all, I’ve got kids… and I’ve travelled with them…. so that makes me supremely qualified to dole out advice, right? Right?

The thing is, I wasn’t always down with family travel. I actually avoided it for years, rationalizing that any vacation where you’re forced to bring your kids along is NOT A VACATION at all. If my suitcase was headed down south, the last thing I wanted to pack next to my swimsuit was swim diapers.

However, that’s in the past. Because somewhere along the way, I realized that vacationing with kids is not scary at all! In fact, with a little preparation and a lot of patience, it’s actually one of the most rewarding things in life. And after I sucked it up and took that first family vacay, we’re somewhat stealth travellers. Case in point: since 2012, my kids have been on an airplane 18 times. Crazy!
20140819_115521 (2) So maybe I haven’t quite reached “expert” status, but I’m certainly confident enough to share my favourite tips for vacationing with kids. It’s just what worked for us – and for those families embarking on their first trip together, I’m hoping my suggestions will work for you too. …

Sandals Ochi: Treat Your Taste Buds

July 17, 2015 By Lena

Last month, I was afforded the exclusive opportunity to visit Ocho Rios, Jamaica on behalf of Sandals. Unfortunately, I was not able to make the trip, so I did the next best thing; I asked fellow#FamilyTravelCA member Sheri McDonald to experience the resort on my behalf. Today, she’s pleased to share the multitude of gourmet dining options at the resort!

If there’s one thing that always comes to mind when I think “all-inclusive”, it’s the food. It’s an opportunity to try types of cuisine that are new to me, and to step outside of my comfort zone. Ordering several dishes to share with everyone at the table is a fantastic way to try as much as possible, too!
20150530_115811 Sandals Ochi doesn’t disappoint when it comes to their dining options. With 16 restaurants and bars on the property, there is something to please everyone.

Of course, if there’s one thing that comes to mind when you think “all-inclusive”, it’s buffet dining. Visit Vista Gourmet and the Sky Terrace, where you enjoy your meal while gazing at the ocean. Here, you’ll find nothing fussy or overworked; just simple dishes that let the natural flavors of fish and seafood shine through. It is the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Feeling the steady Ocho Rios breeze is inevitable while lounging at Sky Terrace, Vista Gourmet’s outdoor dining area that sits high up on a rocky cliff. Bliss!
…

The Ultimate Couple’s Getaway at Sandals Ochi

July 11, 2015 By Lena

Last month, I was afforded the exclusive opportunity to visit Ocho Rios, Jamaica on behalf of Sandals. Unfortunately, I was not able to make the trip, so I did the next best thing; I asked fellow #FamilyTravelCA member Sheri McDonald to experience the resort on my behalf. Take it away, Sheri!

Couples who are looking to escape for a few days will love the NEW Sandals Ochi Beach Resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. An all-inclusive adult only resort, Sandals Ochi promises to provide the vacation you are looking for.
slide-152 The journey begins at the airport in Montego Bay where drinks and snacks are served in the exclusive Sandals Lounge while you wait for your shuttle. The two hour ride to Sandals Ochi goes quickly when you are treated to more beverages, amazing scenery and a quick visit to a rest stop at the halfway mark. Your driver acts as a tour guide and can answer your questions about the area along the way. …

Ce Weekend a Quebec

June 26, 2015 By Lena

I *really* should be packing, but OF COURSE I had to share with you my destination for the next few days – the absolutely, positively gorgeous Mont Tremblant in Quebec! As part of Mont Tremblant’s #TremblantInstameet, we’ll be discovering this tourist hotspot and uncovering all the ways it’s perfect for family vacations this summer. From world-class accommodations and dining to family-friendly sports and activities, I’ll show you why Tremblant is a preferred destination all year round.
Tremblant-resort2 Please follow the hashtag to keep up with our adventures! And, if you have any questions about the location, resort or activities, I’m always a tweet away. And now… I really MUST start packing!

Have a great weekend all! (I promise I’ll eat tons of poutine. Honestly, you don’t have to ask twice.)

Love to Travel? Love Cash? Join the #TravelCash Twitter Chat!

June 16, 2015 By Lena

We like to travel. A LOT. And with each and every trip, the list comes out.

My husband hates the list.

The list includes everything that we need to oversee, pack and manage before we leave for the airport. I create a spreadsheet, assign responsibilities, and include a column for ticking off once complete. It may sound incredibly cumbersome (or, to quote the husband, “overkill”) but I’ve been that mom. You know, the mom who realizes that she forgot to pack baby wipes. Or hairspray. Or birth control.

You’ve met my second son Reid, right? Ri-ight.
20140819_115521 (2) But if there’s one thing we always forget to do, it’s visit the bank to exchange our currency. Yes, it’s on the list, but it often gets overlooked or marked “later” during the flurry of activity. And then, more often than not, I find myself glaring at my husband as we rush to find last-minute foreign currency. Surely there has to be an easier way?

THERE IS! Introducing CIBC Foreign Cash Online. This incredibly convenient service allows me to order the currency I need online (yes! online!) before I travel – and the money is delivered straight to my door. …

Meet Your Texas Traveller!

April 29, 2015 By Lena

It all started with a simple photo contest, where I was asked to select four pictures which represented my ideal Texas vacation. Having never been, but possessing a strong desire to visit, I decided to stick to tried-and-true “Texas To Do” bucket list items… food, fashion, road trips and rodeos.

It was a recipe for success.

Hey, folks! You’re looking at the WINNER of the Texas Tourism contest! Because you voted for my photos (and a HUGE THANK YOU to y’all for each and every vote of support!) I’ve won an all-expenses-paid trip to San Antonio, Texas! Yee-haw!
LenaTexasWinner It gets better. Because we are passionate about family travel, we’re bringing the kids too! After nabbing a seat sale on flights for the two little guys, we decided it was too good a chance to pass up. Therefore, there will be four Texas Travellers this spring!

We’re presently in the process of planning our epic vacation. First up: accommodations. We’ll be staying at the stunning Grand Hyatt San Antonio. Set along the spectacular River Walk, the Grand Hyatt San Antonio is steps from trendy downtown bars, hot clubs, Zagat-rated restaurants and all the sites and attractions that make San Antonio one of the most culturally rich cities in the country.

Two words: Rooftop Pool.
472-p037r-pool-satgh “Take in dramatic views of the city below from the sundeck surrounding our stunning outdoor heated lap pool. The hustle and bustle of the renowned River Walk seems to vanish within the sanctuary of our roof top setting. Crystal clear water awaits you as you swim your daily laps in serene silence.” << I’ll take you up on this, Grand Hyatt San Antonio. …

Find the Chef. Follow the Chef. Signatures Restaurant, Toronto.

April 26, 2015 By Lena

When travelling, it’s one of those things you’d like to take for granted: finding a world-class restaurant in the hotel where you are staying. Because whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner à deux, or meeting colleagues for drinks and a brainstorming session, your hotel’s preferred dining options should be stellar ones. Look for a warm environment, an innovative menu and of course, an avant-garde chef.

Look no further than the Intercontinental Toronto Yorkville.

Savour marvellous cuisine and stylish settings within each of the restaurants and bars at this acclaimed Toronto Yorkville hotel. Choose from the award-winning Signatures restaurant, which features seasonally inspired International and Mediterranean fare served in a sleek, colourful atmosphere; the swanky, see-and-be-seen Proof Vodka bar; and SkyLounge, an outdoor patio tapas restaurant which was selected as the best patio in Toronto.

And what do the three eateries above have in common – besides their convenient location inside the Intercontinental Toronto Yorkville? The restaurants are all under the watchful eye, talented hands and culinary artistry of Chef Andrew Frastacky.
signatures Pictured above: Marinated octopus and tomato salad, with black olive crumble, baby basil and olive oil. The octopus is tender, melt-in-your-mouth divine with the correct amount of acidity for a perfectly balanced bite. I’ve dreamt about this dish at least a few times per week since our visit in March. Chef Andrew prepared a tasting menu for the #FamilyTravelCA crew, and I’m pleased to take you through some of my favourite dishes today, all of which will be featured on their NEW Spring/ Summer 2015 menu. …

The Road Less Traveled: Discover Loreto, Mexico

April 13, 2015 By Lena

Earlier this year, I was offered a wonderful, unique opportunity to spend a week in luxury at The Islands of Loreto, Mexico. Located on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula, the region boasts 155 miles of pristine coastline, 465 square miles of sea and the “Sierra de La Giganta” mountain range. Translation: Paradise on Earth.
16523314548_661468dfe5_z (2) Alas, an entire week away from my school-aged children is rarely in the cards, and this media trip was no exception. However, I couldn’t let this opportunity go to waste, so I enlisted my friend Elaine Atkins to take the trip and report back, and gratefully accepted photos from the talented Sheri McDonald, who I’m seriously considering hiring as photographer for all my upcoming vacations. Breathtaking!

When most people think of Mexico, they either think Cancun or Cabo, and often associate Mexico with partying and crowds in their early 20’s.

While that may be appealing in our younger days, I think it’s safe to say that once you’ve reached full blown adulthood you want your vacation to be about the experience and the memories that will stay with you forever – not so much about the ones you’d rather forget!

When planning your next vacation, you’ll want to put Loreto, Mexico on your list. Water, mountains and beautiful scenery surround you wherever you go, and while tourism is growing in the area, it is very much a place looking to preserve its small town culture and the natural beauty of Loreto Bay.
16520335440_729fbf8671_z How to Get There: Direct flights are available through the Calgary International Airport via WestJet. A connecting flight from Toronto or Vancouver to Calgary is easy enough to find, and if you’re looking to leave through the US, there are flights leaving directly out of LAX. …

A Hotel for Every Toronto Destination

March 31, 2015 By Lena

I’ve been spoiled. I’ve lived in and around Toronto my entire life, so I often forget just how amazing it is. The vibe, the culture, the food, the arts… I could go on.

(Did I mention the diehard Leafs fans? Yeah, the dream just won’t die.)

Of course, when visiting a world-class city like Toronto, there’s no shortage of things to do. And if you’re visiting my fair city, you’re in luck – from thrill rides to theatre shows, sports to scenic tours, Toronto offers the best in family entertainment!

Turn your trip to Toronto into jam-packed days of discovery by partaking in these fun-filled attractions and activities – targeted toward school-aged children, but guaranteed to please kids (and kids at heart) of all ages.

1. The CN Tower

It’s no secret – children like to climb to the top of things (and the taller, the better). Mini daredevils can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Toronto and surrounding area from the observation deck at the CN Tower, the tallest free standing structure in the world. Take an adrenaline-pumping ride up in a glass elevator and capture the heart-stopping moment when your child jumps on the glass floor.
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Where to stay: Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre. Bordered by Yonge, Carlton, Church and Wood Streets, Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre is in the centre of it all. Some of the finest shopping venues in the world such as the Toronto Eaton Centre, the shops at Yorkville, Holt Renfrew, The Bay, Winners, Marshall’s and Bed Bath and Beyond are only minutes from its doorstep.

The entrance to the Yonge/College Subway line, part of Toronto’s famous TTC, and the main artery of the city, is less than a block from the hotel, providing immediate access to all attractions, shopping, dining, hospitals, theatres and the financial district. Jump aboard and visit The CN Tower, Art Gallery of Ontario, Air Canada Centre, Rogers Centre, Dundas Square, Ripley’s Aquarium and more. …

The Experiential Vacation

March 18, 2015 By Lena

One word: VACATION. Now tell me quickly – what’s the first thing that comes to mind?

Chances are, the words “beach”, “poolside” or “sun” likely popped in your head first. (Or, if you’re like some of my friends, “margaritas”.) However, for a growing number of people, vacations are also a time to embark on a new adventure or pursue a personal interest. As a recent TD survey found, approximately three-quarters (74 per cent) of Canadians have already taken or are interested in taking an experiential vacation, and almost two-thirds (62 per cent) would consider it if they could find ways to save on the cost of those trips.

So, what are these experiential vacations?
vacatio1ns I could easily add to this list: art classes in Paris, culinary tours in Japan, zip-lining in Central America or going on safari in Africa. As for experimenting in my own city? Hey, I’ve heard there’s some pretty spectacular shopping downtown :)

Sounds amazing, right? However, it’s not surprising to hear that more than half (53 per cent) of those surveyed expect an experiential vacation to cost more than a normal one. And while an organized savanna tour can definitely set you back a few more $$, the reality is, planning (and affording) an incredible experiential vacation is actually within reach for many. …

Flying this March Break? Tips to Breeze through Security.

March 1, 2015 By Lena

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 *still working on it*.

If you’re like me, and the thousands of Canadians who will take to the air for a vacation this March break, the Canadian Air Transport Security (CATSA) has advice that will help you go through security in no time.

Family Friendly Tips: Good news! When you’re travelling with children under the age of two, you can bring liquids such as milk, breast milk and juice that exceed the 100ml restrictions in carry-on baggage. Just have the containers ready to present to screening officers for a quick inspection. For older kids, solid foods such as apples, granola bars and sandwiches can go in your carry-on without restrictions.
CATSA 1 Before you leave for the airport, make sure everyone is wearing easy-to-remove outerwear and avoid clothes with metal clasps or snaps that may trigger the metal detector.

At the airport, get boarding passes ready and check for a Family/Special Needs lane. They offer extra space to accommodate larger items like strollers and car seats. …

Whatever You Love, It Lives Here.

February 25, 2015 By Lena

I’m pretty sure – in fact, I’m almost 100% certain – that in a past life, I was a Texan.

Now before you laugh and say, “Sure, Lena!”…. think about it: I love big hair. In fact, I keenly subscribe to the notion the higher the hair, the closer to God. Next, I say “y’all” at least once every day, and according to a search of my entire site, y’all appears in 286 blog posts.

I’m not making this up. Hand on heart, y’all.

Finally, I’ve been known to whip out my “Real Girls Eat Meat” t-shirt over the summer months, even though I’ve been ridiculed by my vegetarian friends. And to them, I say relax! Eat a burger.
newtex Therefore, it’s obvious to me that a) I’ve either lived as a Texan in a previous lifetime, or b) I am a Texan at heart, and am long overdue for a vacation to the Lone Star State. …

Winter Escape: Walt Disney World!

February 11, 2015 By Lena

As I sit in my home office, banging away at my keyboard, the light coming in through the window is hurting my eyes. Because it’s bright white. All over. As in, everything outside is covered with snow. Waaa!!!

Also? I’ve been having dreams. Dreams about cold, creamy Dole Whip – the soft-serve pineapple miracle you can only find at select Disney Parks. Could it be because just one week ago, we were in sunny, warm and perfectly balmy Orlando, enjoying one of our best family vacations at Walt Disney World Resort?
Yeah, probably so.

As we arrived at the Contemporary Resort (our home away from home), I was surprised to find the hotel teeming with guests; you see, the wait times at the park suggested we were actually in “low season”.

“It’s the conferences,” a cast member said. “When the parks are empty, conference resorts are full.”

By why are the parks remarkably less busy in the months of January and February? All vacation planning websites point to February as being one of the best times to visit Walt Disney World due to the smaller crowds. And for Canadians, while the weather is *only* on the 20’s… it’s NOT in the -20’s, you feel me? So what gives?

It turns out that January and February are sandwiched between the Christmas holidays and March Break – two of Disney’s busiest stretches – and therefore, often overlooked in family vacation planning. And, because the beginning of the year is also considered “winter” in the sunshine state, many travellers opt for the intense heat of the Caribbean to ease their cold weather suffering.

But today, I want to show you why it’s the perfect time of year to experience Walt Disney World Resort. If you’re thinking of booking a last minute vacation or planning for next year, here’s what you need to know.

The Pros

First, knowing that any vacation to Walt Disney World can be a sizable investment in time and money, let’s discuss the benefits of visiting over the winter.

1. Discounted Hotel Rates. Of course the very first point is that you can save money! The second week of January right through to the middle/end of February is considered value season at Walt Disney World. Staying at a resort hotel is attractive due to the cost savings – anywhere from 10-30% per family – and your choices for hotels and rooms are even greater if you plan ahead. …

Outdoor Lovers Have No Fear…

February 2, 2015 By Lena

… The Toronto Sportsmen’s Show is almost here!

If you’ve just about had it up *to here* with the snow, here’s an idea – pack up the family, visit the Direct Energy Centre from February 5th to 8th, and start planning all the time you’ll savour outdoors this spring and summer.

Fishing. Hunting. Boating. Outdoor adventure and travel. Yes, yes, yes and yes! You can find everything you need – and more – at the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show. Now in its 68th year, the show is the largest its kind in Canada, bringing together the very best in outdoor adventure. And this year, there are even more new attractions that will delight and entertain, whether you’re an adventure seeker, animal lover or a lumberjack-in-training!

So, what can you expect? Over 300 exhibitors and activities, to start. Yes, The Toronto Sportsmen’s Show is the perfect way to spend a day with the family! Some of the features you can look forward to include:

Axe Throwing and Chainsaw Carving presented by Husqvarna

The Toronto Sportsmen’s Show is pleased to welcome the West Coast Lumberjacks who will amaze audiences with their unbelievable axe throwing skills. Lucky visitors will even be able to try their hand at this increasingly popular and dexterous sport! Visitors can also watch art come to life as world class carver Mike Winia uses only his imagination and chainsaws to turn plain wooden logs into incredible masterpieces.
The WoofJocks Canine All Stars

Joining The Toronto Sportsmen’s Show for the first time, the WoofJocks Canine All Stars are a talented troupe of pup-sized entertainers who can do more than just fetch. The WoofJocks will amaze audiences with their choreographed shows filled with tricks demonstrating canine agility and obedience. …

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