FamilyTravelgram

New Family Programs Launched By Marriott

2018-08-13T12:02:57-07:00

Tap into the family-friendly experiences recently launched within the 83 JW Marriott hotels around the world.

Crafted for children ages 5 to 12, Family by JW centers around three kid-friendly themes – creativity, activeness, and culture. These pillars infuse orginal programming created in partnership with cultural icons like the Guggenheim Museum and The Joffrey Ballet as well as resources within each local community.

Expect family vacations with interactive cooking classes led by culinary experts during which budding foodies will help prepare and sample nutritious cuisine reflecting the culture of the destination. In New York and beyond, the JW Marriott has teamed with the Guggenheim to engage young guests with activity guides and experiences that explore art, architecture and culture.

The Joffrey Ballet collaborated on suggested in-room exercises and stretches to help families wake up in the morning and wind down each evening during their stay. A new in-room dining menu features healthy, family-style dining options to share at meal time. Contact:

www.jwmarriott.com/family.

Planning a Vacation?

2018-08-04T00:00:00-07:00

Are you planning a family vacation with the kids?

The Grandkids?

Or the whole gang?

We've got trip ideas, destinations to consider and an extra dose of inspiration...... just in case you need it!

Horseback Riding Tips For Trail Riders

2018-07-26T00:00:00-07:00

Are you headed to a guest or dude ranch soon?

Or perhaps you'd like to ride horses while in a western mountain town?

Get ready to ride with these tips offered by Germonimo Trail Guest Ranch.

Gateway to the Great Outdoors

2018-07-23T00:00:00-07:00

There are plenty of reasons to find your way to Jackson Hole, a gateway to natural beauty and native wonders. And if you are about to enter the wild world of parenthood, there is no better place for a babymoon.

Find out why this couple made their way to the verdant mountain valley.

Summer Fun in the Mountains

2018-05-31T00:00:00-07:00

There is plenty of family fun to be found in mountain towns during the summer.

Cool temperatures.

Hiking, biking and family fly fishing abound.

Ready to rodeo in Steamboat Springs, in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.?

Your whole crew will enjoy witnessing the American tradition where the rough and tough iconic cowboy meets good, old-fashioned family fun.

Take a scenic drive.

Check out these epic mountain towns while you are in the mood for high altitude fun.

Authentic Ranch Vacations

2018-05-24T00:00:00-07:00

Take part in ranching’s oldest tradition and learn to wrestle a calf, vaccinate, ear tag and gather at Zapata Ranch.

This is a hands-on, team-oriented experience that puts you in the center of the action. Through the week explore the ranch and the Great Sand Dunes National Park on horseback, help check fence, water and herd health while moving and gathering cattle ending the week in a full day of branding.

Also available are interpretive hikes with a naturalist, fly fishing, rafting, roping and leather working sessions as well as massage to assist with those activity filled days. For more, call Kate (888.592.7282) and ask about the 15% discount for the week of June 10, 2018.

Check out the MIM Concert Season for Summer

2018-05-06T00:00:00-07:00

The Musical Instrument Museum MusicTheater, in Phoenix, proudly announces its Summer 2018 Concert Series, includes more than fifty concerts from May through September, spanning multiple genres across the globe.

Highlights this season include vocalist-harmonica maestro John Popper, best known as founder and front man of the popular 1990s’ band Blues Traveler; funk and soul legends Tower of Power, performing as part of their 50th Anniversary Tour; Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Madeleine Peyroux, whose voice has been compared to Billie Holiday; and ten-time Grammy Award winner Bobby McFerrin, who has successfully crossed over between genres of jazz, pop, and classical with his remarkable octave-jumping vocals. Tickets are on sale now.

Crazy Horse Memorial Turns 70

2018-05-03T00:00:00-07:00

It has been 70 years since the first blast on the mountain at Crazy Horse Memorial, so this might be reason enough to visit the Black Hills of South Dakota.

As the world's largest mountain carving in progress, Crazy Horse is bigger than its iconic neighbor Mount Rushmore. The horse’s head alone, when completed, will be taller than the Statue of Liberty from base to torch. Sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski started work on the mountain in 1948 as a tribute to Native Americans, depicting the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing into the distance. Visitors can witness the monument in all its glory and participate in the following:

Explore the Indian Museum of North America®, which is located on the memorial grounds and features art and artifacts from tribes across the continent.
On June 2-3, 2018 (the anniversary date of the first blast), participate in the Spring Volksmarch, trekking 6.2 miles up the memorial to stand face-to-face with the head of Crazy Horse.
Continue to learn about Lakota culture throughout the region with hikes to the sacred Bear Butte State Park and visits to The Journey Museum's interactive exhibits. Participate in a local tour on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to pay your respects at Wounded Knee and enjoy a home-cooked traditional meal in Bette's Kitchen, set in the home of a descendent of Nicolas Black Elk, warrior of the Oglala Lakota tribe.

Grand Canyon With Kids

2018-04-11T00:00:00-07:00

A larger-than-life experience, Grand Canyon draws tens of thousands of families each year who unplug their smartphones, tune out television, and create lasting memories together.

Bruce Brossman, marketing director for the Grand Canyon National Park Lodges and Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, shares 10 ways the park helps kids replace virtual reality with a real-life experience that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Guaranteed.

1. Take Part in a Junior Ranger Program

With its historic sights, walking trails, museums, exhibits, and the canyon itself, Grand Canyon National Park may be America’s largest classroom. For kids, one of the most popular activities is participating in a Junior Ranger program.

“Lessons are related to nature, history, the environment, and geology and every program is free,” Brossman explains. “Kids can pick up a Junior Ranger book, complete the activities inside, and then bring it to a ranger at the Visitor Center. After they review the answers, they administer the Junior Ranger pledge and then present them with their Junior Ranger badge. They can even take their new badge to one of the park’s bookstores for a custom sew-on patch related to their award.”

2. Learn Geological History

Understanding the immense span of time it took to create Grand Canyon can be daunting, but the 2.8-mile Trail of Time on the South Rim is a perfect visual aid to help kids understand how it was formed. They can even earn a Junior Ranger badge here.

“Follow this interpretive timeline east from the Village and show your kids how the canyon’s rock layers reveal its geological story,” Brossman explains. “Brass markers every few feet represent one million years and the farther you walk, the farther back in time you travel until you reach the ‘bottom’ of the canyon where the oldest layer of rock is nearly two billion years old.”

On the trail, ask your kids to imagine each million years as just one day. The top layer was formed 270 million years old, so that is just ‘nine months’ old. The bottom would be nearly 2,000 days old — more than five years at that rate. If you need a little assistance in explaining it to your children, look for interpretive materials that will help you understand the geological process, or ask a ranger for a quick overview of how the canyon was formed.

3. Take an Ice Cream Break

After walking the Trail of Time, cool off at the Bright Angel Lodge Fountain.

“They serve hand-scooped ice cream cones and shakes and floats,” Brossman says. “You can tell by the long lines in the summertime that ice cream is perfect for kids of all ages.”

4. Study Ancient Human History

Drive east along the South Rim to the Tusayan Ruins and you can teach your kids about the human story connected with the canyon. An excavated village includes the remnants of shelters and meeting houses Ancestral Puebloans used for religious rituals and political meetings.

“These tribes had established dozens of communities in the area, one of which was here,” says Brossman. “You can connect your kids to history by asking them to imagine how those people lived — where did they get their water? How did they dress? What did children their age do for entertainment?

“For the answers, visit the small museum here where the answers are found in exhibits that showcase tools, jewelry, art, and artifacts unearthed at this spot.”

5. Learn About America’s First Restaurant Chain

Long before fast food joints, there was a company that served food fast. In the Historic Village, stop in at the Fred Harvey History Room.

“Not many people today know this,” Brossman begins, “but back in the 1870s the Fred Harvey Company became America’s first restaurant chain. Passengers were heading west aboard trains and Fred Harvey revolutionized food service and hospitality throughout the region by creating a chain of restaurants. This is another place where you can share a lesson just by contrasting the past with the present. Ask your kids to imagine what it was like ordering food in 1878 and what it’s like ordering food in 2018.”

6. Eat Kid-Friendly Meals

After showing your kids how people ate in the 1870s, take them to the restaurants of the Grand Canyon National Park Lodges and let them order some of their old favorites on the kids’ menu.

7. Ride a Mule

Riders will have to be at least 4 feet 9 inches to participate in one of the most popular activities for kids (and adults): the Canyon Vista Mule Ride.

“Tell your kids you’re going to take them for a ride on a ‘long-eared taxi’,” Brossman suggests. “They’ll fall in love with our gentle mules, and it gives them a perfect opportunity to see Grand Canyon from a new perspective. Along the way, they’ll learn a little about geology, nature, the outdoors, and how to behave around large animals. This is a signature Grand Canyon experience.”

8. Shop for Memorable Collectibles

On vacation, every kid loves to look for unique souvenirs to bring home for themselves, friends, and family. For this, take them to the Hopi House.

“Young girls especially love to learn this was designed by a woman,” says Brossman. “More than a century ago, Mary Colter became known as ‘The Architect of the Southwest’ for the Hopi House, the Watch Tower, and other structures she designed at Grand Canyon and elsewhere in the region. She was truly an independent and talented woman.”

Located next to the El Tovar Hotel, the Hopi House lets kids find affordable souvenirs and collectibles like Native American dream catchers, jewelry, and other works of art.

9. Hike into the Canyon

Kids can chalk up an unforgettable experience by hiking into the canyon — with an adult, of course.

“I’ve seen kids who are revved and ready to go the whole distance to the bottom of the canyon, but start with a short hike on the Bright Angel Trail at the west end of the Village,” suggests Brossman. “Start with a short 30-minute family hike through the first tunnel and then point out something few other visitors notice. Look up to the left and you’ll see an ancient Native American pictograph that’s about 800 years old.”

If the family can do the round trip without much effort, consider a longer hike. On the Bright Angel Trail there are water and restroom stops at 1.5 and three miles — and the views change every few feet.

10. Get Wowed by the Sunrise

Even if it’s not a school day, your kids will want to get up early to witness one of the most beautiful sights in America. “Sunrise at Grand Canyon is a wonderful experience for families to share,” Brossman notes. “It’s worth it to get up before daybreak to see the canyon change colors with the changing light. It is something you and your family will remember forever.”

British Historical Sites For Families

2018-03-12T00:00:00-07:00

The British Isles are home to a huge array of heritage sites, many of which make “must visit” lists year after year. Although you may not initially think of centuries-old venues as the first place to take your family on a holiday, in fact, children and adults alike can learn a lot from these historic sites. Whether you and your kids are enthralled by the Royal Family, want to see haunting Stonehenge, or are fascinated by tales of the past, you’ll find plenty to explore in England.

Read on for five fascinating historic sites to add to your next British holiday itinerary.

1. Stonehenge

One of the most iconic historical sites in the world, Stonehenge is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the past, legends, or spirituality. The famous stone circle, situated on Salisbury Plain in the south of the country, has a hazy past that archaeologists and historians are still trying to figure out.

It is believed though that Stonehenge was built in stages, starting around 3,000 B.C. and continuing up to 1,600 B.C. The stones within the monument were transported from up to 150 miles or more away, and the tallest of the upright stones reaches almost 22 feet high.

While access to this historic spot has become limited over the years due to fears of damage, it is possible to book a Stone Circle Access visit that takes place outside of normal opening times. These hour-long visits are late in the evening or first thing in the morning and must be pre-booked in advance. With 17 previously unknown structures recently being discovered in the fields and plains around the World Heritage-listed site, now there is even more to be enthralled by during a visit.

2. The Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most well-known destinations in London itself, and no trip to the city can be complete without a visit. This famous landmark and fortification has stood guard over the north bank of the River Thames for around 1,000 years, and has also served in a variety of other roles.

Apart from once being a royal residence for English kings, the venue has also been a treasury, the Royal Mint, an armoury, and a menagerie. However, what tends to draw tourists from around the world is the Tower’s past as a prison and place of execution. In addition, the site is also the home of the British Crown Jewels, a display that tends to be the highlight of any visit. The exhibition was redesigned and revamped to coincide with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012 and should be added to any travel itinerary within London.

3. Canterbury Cathedral

Located in Canterbury in Kent, the striking Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest Christian structures in England and yet is still a working church and important site of worship with morning and evening prayers conducted daily.

The Cathedral has seen prayers offered each day for more than 1,400 years, and was originally founded back in 597 by Saint Augustine on behalf of Pope Gregory the Great. Apart from being a place of worship, the site boasts a library with more than 30,000 books and pamphlets that were printed before 1900. Canterbury Cathedral is also home to a magnificent array of stained-glass windows throughout the building that have survived from as early as the 12th century.

4. The Roman Baths

The Roman Baths form part of England’s Bath World Heritage Site, and gave this part of the world its name. The popular tourist destination receives over one million visitors every year, and is built on hot springs that were originally discovered by the Celts.

The site features the Roman Bath House, a Roman Temple (the oldest structure in the Baths, built in 60-70 A.D.), a museum, and the Sacred Spring. While it’s no longer possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths, the sight of this historic place lit up by torches at night during the summer months is one not easily forgotten.

5. Blenheim Palace

One of England’s biggest houses, Blenheim Palace sits amid a sprawling 2,100-acre estate in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. The Palace was constructed in the early 18th century in the not-often seen English Baroque style. The estate was a gift from Queen Anne to John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough that claimed victory in the Battle of Blenheim in 1704.

The site went on to become the ancestral home of the Churchill family for more than 300 years, and was the birthplace of a former prime minister, Sir Winston Churchill. Today the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and a beautiful spot where visitors can wander the home and its surrounding lakes and landscaped gardens.

Bear and Wolf

2018-03-11T00:00:00-07:00

When I hear about a beautiful book, I have to share it.

We can all use a dose of what this tale has to offer. WIth lovely illustrations, the author, Daniel Salmieri, encourages the reader, (young and old) to focus on our similarities, not our differences. You can order it here:

Beach Time, Pura Vida Style

2018-03-09T00:00:00-07:00

We may have this in common.

Sometimes I long for a peaceful place to relax.

Like this beach on Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica. Don't get me wrong. I like being active: hiking, biking, paddleboarding and pilates. (That last one is new) Here, you can ramble through the jungle and spot howler or white-faced monkeys cavorting in the trees. And the birds. The country is home to some 800 species.

But there are times when just feeling the warm breeze in your hair is just what the doctor ordered. I was fortunate to spend a few days sleeping within steps of this beautiful beach not long ago. Even after returning home, I can always access the peaceful vibe in my memory bank.

Big Apple Bound?

2018-02-15T00:00:00-07:00

Heading to New York City with the family?

If so, one great way to keep everyone entertained is by taking your family members to a play, musical, or concert. When perusing shows in the city, your first decision would be whether you want to see a show on Broadway or off Broadway. The advantage of Broadway shows is that the production value is higher; however, this greater value is reflected in the ticket cost. Off-Broadway shows, however, offer variety at far lower prices.

In total, more than 90 off-Broadway theaters exist throughout New York, examples of which include the Signature Theatre, Playwrights Horizons, and The Public Theater. What qualifies a theater as an off-Broadway theater is not its location, but rather, its size. Off-Broadway theaters have only 99 to 499 seats, which makes them more intimate for shows. This seating arrangement will allow you to focus on the performers more and allow you to feel as though you're the only one in the audience.

If you go to see a Broadway show, the atmosphere will be different. Broadway theaters need to have a minimum of 500 seats, and the auditorium will likely always be crowded with adoring fans. In fact, during the 2016–2017 production year, 13.27 million people attended a Broadway show. Why such the allure for Broadway? Perhaps it's because the shows held at these theaters are eligible for Tony Awards. If you need more guidance to decide which type of show is right for your family, study the infographic below to help you make your choice.

Do You Want To Dive The Great Blue Hole?

2018-01-01T00:00:00-07:00

So you want to dive the Great Blue Hole near Ambergris Caye, in Belize.

Scuba enthusiasts are eager to dive this large submarine sinkhole once explored by Jacques Cousteau. Located near the center of Lighthouse Reef, the Great Blue Hole is part of the large Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a World Heritage site.

Experienced divers have the opportunity to see remarkable limestone formations as well as several species of shark in the crystal waters. The dive destination is 60 miles from Ambergris Caye and for those of us who get sea sick it be a treacherous crossing. But worth it.

Working with an experienced and reputable outfitter is essential. Las Terrazas Resort is a family-friendly condo-style hotel adjacent to the White Sands Dive Shop, where Professional Association of Diving Instructors-certified (PADI) owner Elbert Greer will ensure your dive experience is top-notch.

Contact: www.lasterrazasresort.com; www.whitesandsdiveshop.com; www.travelbelize.org