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#FamilyTravelCA

In the Moment: Tremblant Edition

December 21, 2015 By Lena

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.
DSC_2214aThere’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.

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, #tremblant, Mont Tremblant, winter 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_nOf 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! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, family travel, giveaway

Do You Have Travel Fomo?

March 19, 2015 By Lena

It happens to all of us.

Whether it’s a photo on Instagram, a status update on Facebook, or – ahem – a post from one of your favourite bloggers, chances are, you’ve seen a beach, a cityscape, or even an overstaged photo of a passport and flip flips and thought, “I am MISSING out.”

Do you suffer from Travel FOMO? (Fear Of Missing Out?)

You’re not alone. Many Canadians use FOMO as a source of inspiration and motivation, especially when it comes to booking family vacations, last minute road trips or simply adding a destination to their bucket list. But what is it about the fear of missing out that influences our spending habits? Why do we let ourselves be controlled by what others are doing, saying, living, spending – and putting on social media for all to obsess about?

We’re getting to the bottom of it at the #FamilyTravelCA Twitter Chat on Tuesday, March 24th at 8:00pm EDT. Joined by special guest @NickCowling, Vice President and General Manager at Citizen Relations, we’ll explore the concept of FOMO and how it impacts travel planning and purchases.
Travel FOMOOf course, there’s only one way to reduce FOMO – and that’s to prepare for your next vacay! So we’re giving out $500 in Future Shop Gift Cards, with a $250 Grand Prize!

RSVP below for a chance to win, and see you on Tuesday night! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, family travel, FOMO, Twitter Party

Do You Travel in Style?

October 23, 2014 By Lena

It’s t-minus 24 hours until your epic vacation, and you’re staring at the already-full suitcase in front of you. You could close it right now, secure in the knowledge that you have the bare essentials for your trip, have chosen your best outfits, and will bring your own brand of fabulous to your destination. Or, you could sneak in an extra pair of cute flip flops, that sunhat you just had to buy, and about four additional “back-up” outfits.

Do you travel in style?

Join us for our #FamilyTravelCA Twitter Chat on Tuesday, October 28th at 9:00pm EDT. We’ll be chatting about your personal travel style, with prizes sponsored by The Shopping Channel!

In addition to hundreds in TSC gift cards up for grabs, we’ll also be giving away a *very* stylish grand prize: a Heys 3-Piece FLARE Inspired Fashion Spinner Luggage, valued at $459.97!
513832_SIXMDStart your next voyage out on the right foot with the fantastic features and trendsetting design of these travel essentials! Heys is excited to partner with FLARE, a leading Canadian fashion magazine, to create the FLARE inspired fashion spinner luggage. Each of the hardside luggage in this three-piece set is uniquely designed to be lightweight and durable, offering easy, stress-free travel. They are made of an impact-resistant polycarbonate composite material (polycarbonate is used in the making of bulletproof glass) and feature a unique frameless design that gives them great flexibility.

The pieces have beautiful distinct patterns to set them apart from other luggage, so you will always know which is yours. They also feature a diamond textured surface to help prevent surface scratches and scuff marks. The all-new interior is fully lined with a stylish pattern; it has a zipped divider, four pockets and a buckled compression strap for compact, organized packing.

Available in six (6) patterns, there’s one to suit every fashionista. RSVP now for your chance to win, and see you on Tuesday night! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, family travel, Heys Luggage, The Shopping Channel

#FamilyTravelCA: Trafalgar Family Experiences

September 28, 2014 By Lena

I’m not afraid to ask for directions. I’m not afraid to ask questions. And I’m certainly not afraid to ask for help when it comes to planning a vacation.

Trafalgar Travel has been creating exceptional guided vacations for almost 70 years. With more than 230 trips to worldwide destinations, including Europe, North, Central and South America, Australia , New Zealand, Asia and Africa, they continue to offer new ways to travel every year.

So what’s caught my eye? Aloha Hawaii. Because, Hawaii.

Aloha and welcome to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands on this family-friendly itinerary. Your adventure begins in Honolulu where you’ll meet chocolate flavourmeisters and make your own chocolate bar. Take in the sites of the infamous Pearl Harbour and join an insider on an exclusive visit aboard “Mighty Mo.” Enjoy the endless white-sand beaches of Maui and marvel at the Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on this guided trip of a lifetime.
Hawaii-4
Family Experiences by Trafalgar Travel are designed to appeal to every generation from children to grandparents, offering a mix of education and entertainment. Your Travel Director will make sure every aspect of your trip runs smoothly with meticulous precision, from 4 and 5-star accommodation and luxury travel to making sure you never have to carry your own luggage or queue at the sights. (Newsflash: this is my kind of travel.)

Want to learn more? Join us at our monthly #FamilyTravelCA Twitter Chat! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, family travel, guided vacation, Trafalgar Family Experiences

#FamilyTravelCA: Introducing Four Seasons Toronto

June 22, 2014 By Lena

Have you ever wanted to hear tips and tricks for successful family travel… from a hotel’s perspective? I mean, think about it – they could tell you what to look for, what to expect, and most importantly, how to make the most of your family stay. Sounds pretty helpful, right?

Well, we just don’t have *any* hotel joining us for the next #FamilyTravelCA chat – we’ve got a leader in service and luxury; the epitome of opulence and innovation. Introducing the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto.

FamilyTravelCA 1pmFour Seasons Hotel Toronto offers 259 spacious luxury hotel guest rooms, including 42 suites, in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood. Relax and rejuvenate in their 2,787-square-metre (30,000-square-foot) state-of-the-art spa, or enjoy spectacular cuisine by international chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud at Café Boulud and d|bar.

Join us on Tuesday, June 24th at 1:00pm EST (mind the NEW time!) for the #FamilyTravelCA Twitter Chat, where we welcome @FSToronto as our very special expert guest. They will share ways to make the most of your family travel experience from the hotelier’s point of view – which can be invaluable if you’re wanting a truly seamless and wonderful experience. And, thank you for joining us, they’re offering one tweeter a *very* special prize:

ONE NIGHT STAY FOR TWO GUESTS IN A DELUXE ROOM
DINNER FOR TWO GUESTS AT CAFE BOULUD (excludes alcohol and gratuities)

A total value of $900.00! Having just returned from a flawless stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, I can authentically say that for one lucky winner, this will be a stay of a lifetime, and a meal to remember!

RSVP below for a chance to win, and see you on Tuesday afternoon! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, Four Seasons Toronto, luxury Toronto hotel, Twitter Party

Luxury Travel: Four Seasons Toronto

June 13, 2014 By Lena

It’s rare that one has the opportunity to experience a destination, luxury hotel – in the heart of their own city. The Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, soaring 55 storeys in Toronto’s most glamorous quarter, blends warm sophistication with spectacular design.

This weekend, my family will be embarking on a family staycation at the Four Seasons. Here, we’ll enjoy family-friendly amenities without sacrificing refinement; we’ll explore the city’s most lavish surroundings while making lasting memories. On our agenda: a romantic dinner for mom and dad (sans kids!) at Café Boulud; an in-room family movie night; breakfast in bed; an aromatherapy massage at The Spa  for mom while dad and the kids enjoy the pool; lunch at d|bar, and more. Follow #FamilyTravelCA on Twitter as I chronicle our adventures in luxury family travel.

Before I pack, I wanted to share with you a little “taste” of what’s in store for us at Café Boulud tonight. My husband has followed the career of Chef Daniel Boulud for years; a renowned Michelin-starred French chef and restaurateur, he effortlessly pairs the cosmopolitan flavours of Toronto’s diverse cultures with classic and contemporary French dishes. On the menu –

CRISPY DUCK EGG with button mushrooms, glazed onions, smoked bacon and parsley.

Cafe Boulud 1…

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, Cafe Boulud Toronto, Four Seasons Toronto, luxury travel

#FamilyTravelCA: Let’s Talk Vacation Photography!

May 22, 2014 By Lena

This month, me and my girls @ChildMode, @FeistyFrugal and @SassyModernMom are welcoming four NEW moderators just in time to chat about vacation photography. Please welcome @Candace_DX, @Kidsumers, @MommyGearest and @RossanaWyatt to the #FamilyTravelCA family!

FamilyTravelCAJoin us on Tuesday, May 27th at 9pm EST. We’ll tweet up a storm with suggestions and tips on how to capture the best memories by honing your vacation photography skills.

2-WifiBut hey, a chat wouldn’t be nearly as fun without prizes! This month, please say thank you to Nikon Canada – they’re our official prizing sponsor and have provided AH-MA-ZING prizes: two coveted Nikon COOLPIX cameras, which are perfect for toting along on your family travel adventures.

Nikon is perhaps most well known for its reputation as a world leader in imaging products, and its technologies continue to play a significant role in defining the photographic industry. Nikon’s COOLPIX cameras are helping reshape how people take pictures and share them with others. By integrating sophisticated automatic features, Nikon’s COOLPIX cameras are making digital photography more accessible to consumers and enabling anyone to take stunning pictures.

RSVP below for a chance to win, and see you on Tuesday night! …

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Filed Under: Contests Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, Nikon Canada, Twitter Party, Vacation Photography

#FamilyTravelCA: Let’s Talk Packing Essentials!

April 27, 2014 By Lena

This month, me and my girls @ChildMode, @FeistyFrugal and @SassyModernMom are making a list and checking it twice. That can only mean one thing: YES, we’re chatting about packing essentials this month!

Join us on Tuesday, April 29th at 9pm EST. We’ll tweet up a storm with suggestions and tips on what to pack when you’re travelling with your family.

But hey, a chat wouldn’t be nearly as fun without prizes! This month, please say thank you to CAA of South Central Ontario – they’re our official prizing sponsor and have provided AH-MA-ZING prizes, including CAA travel vouchers and Visa Gift Cards.

(Shout out to CAA: Canada’s largest not-for-profit Automobile Association with over 1.9 million Members in South Central Ontario. Offering a number of products and services ranging from Roadside Assistance, Home and Auto Insurance, Travel Services and Travel Insurance, as well to savings at hundreds of shops and attractions across North America.)

RSVP below for a chance to win, and see you on Tuesday night! …

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Filed Under: Contests Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, Twitter Party

#FamilyTravelCA: We’re Chatting Theme Parks!

March 19, 2014 By Lena

This month, me and my girls @ChildMode, @FeistyFrugal and @SassyModernMom are daring you – no, we’re triple dog daring you – to ride the tallest roller coaster… eat the most towering tube of cotton candy… or spend five minutes in the haunted house. You guessed it – this month, we’re chatting THEME PARKS!

Join us on Tuesday, March 25th at 9pm EDT. We’ll tweet up a storm discussing the BEST ways to make the most of theme park time with your family, and hear all about your favourite spots to chase thrills in North America.

But hey, a chat wouldn’t be nearly as fun without prizes! And what’s the first rule of theme park hopping? That’s right – wear comfortable shoes! This month, please say thank you to SKECHERS Canada – they’re our official prizing sponsor and have provided SIX pairs of Memory Foam shoes for our lucky winners!

Follow @FamilyTravelCA, RSVP using the linky below and tweet using #FamilyTravelCA to be eligible to win. See you on Tuesday night – I promise, it will be a thrilling chat! …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, SKECHERS, Twitter Party

#FamilyTravelCA: We’re Chatting Staycations!

February 21, 2014 By Lena

This month, me and my girls @ChildMode, @FeistyFrugal and @SassyModernMom are whipping out the board games… making reservations at our favourite kid-friendly restaurants, and scouring the city for fun ways to spend time with family – without spending a fortune. That can only mean one thing: YES, we’re chatting about our go-to staycation ideas!

Join us on Tuesday, February 25th at 9pm EST. We’ll tweet up a storm with suggestions for how to keep the kiddos entertained over March break if you’re staying in the city.

But hey, a chat wouldn’t be nearly as fun without prizes! This month, please say thank you to CAA of South Central Ontario – they’re our official prizing sponsor and have provided AH-MA-ZING prizes for a few lucky staycationers:

(2) Payless Gift Cards ($50 value each)
(2) East Side Mario Gift Cards ($50 value each)
(2) CAA Memberships ($70 value each)
A Family Pass (4 tcikets) to Medieval Times ($250 value)

Plus a GRAND PRIZE of an iPad mini 16gb ($319 value)!

(Shout out to CAA: Canada’s largest not-for-profit Automobile Association with over 1.9 million Members in South Central Ontario. Offering a number of products and services ranging from Roadside Assistance, Home and Auto Insurance, Travel Services and Travel Insurance, as well to savings at hundreds of shops and attractions across North America.)

No RSVP is required; simply follow @FamilyTravelCA and @CAASCO and tweet on the hashtag #FamilyTravelCA between 9-10pm EST and you’re automatically entered to win. (Winners will be randomly chosen via www.twitterdraw.com) See you there – and bring your best staycation ideas to share!

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, Twitter Party

Love Family Travel? So Do We! #FamilyTravelCA

January 26, 2014 By Lena

This year, me and my girls @ChildMode, @FeistyFrugal and @SassyModernMom have something up our sleeves… or should I say, up our flip flops?

It’s no secret that I love travelling with my family. My boys are the perfect age to soak up everything, from theme park adventures to Caribbean cruises, staycations in Toronto to glamping in cottage country. And, I adore hearing about everyone else’s vacations too! I am addicted to sunset photography, bon voyage status updates, and following along as others travel the world.

So… why not share in the good times? Introducing the #FamilyTravelCA Twitter Chat!

Join us on the last Tuesday of every month at 9pm EST. We’ll tweet up a storm with topics such as your favourite vacation spots, budget-friendly tips, packing essentials, family-approved destinations and more.

This Tuesday, January 28th, we’ll chat about your favourite Spring Break destinations and ways to spend some quality family time – whether on a beach, at a ski resort, or in-town.

But hey, a chat wouldn’t be nearly as fun without prizes! This month, please say thank you to P&G Everyday – they’re our official prizing sponsor and have travel-ready bundles up for grabs (valued at $50+ each!) so you’ll have your favourite essentials on hand as you embark on your Family Travel adventure.

No RSVP is required; simply follow @FamilyTravelCA and tweet on the hashtag #FamilyTravelCA between 9-10pm EST and you’re automatically entered to win. See you there – and in the meantime, think warm thoughts!

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #FamilyTravelCA, family travel, Twitter Party

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Lena Almeida

Toronto Blogger, Social Media Strategist for Listen to Lena Inc. Television & Radio Personality, Columnist and Speaker. Family Travel Expert. Star Wars Fanatic. Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion. Read More…

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