FamilyTravelgram

Where The Buffalo Roam

2012-10-25T00:00:00-07:00

At the turn of the century, America's wild bison - which at one time numbered 60 million - had dwindled to about two dozen animals. Strong, sturdy and resilient, they’ve made a comeback, thanks to public and private conservation efforts.

On the range, in refuges and national parks, this symbol of our wildlife heritage is magnificent to observe. Despite their seemingly docile ways, don’t ignore ranger warnings. This large, grass-eating creature has been known to charge the too close for comfort curious tourist.

Snap a shot of this American icon – with a zoom lens:

1.Wildlife Expeditions, an educational outreach program of Teton Science Schools, a nonprofit organization, provides year-round wildlife viewing and natural history interpretation to those interested in a close-up, ethical view of Greater Yellowstone’s wild animals in their natural habitat. Experienced biologists use their knowledge and skills to locate bison as well as elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, and coyotes amongst the towering Teton Mountains.

Contact: 1 (888) 945-3567; www.wildlifeexpeditions.org.

2. The National Bison Range, 40 miles north of Missoula, MT, sprawls across 18,000 acres on one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the nation. Established in 1908, it is a scenic home to hundreds of bison as well as 200 species of birds and other native wildlife.

Contact:1( 406)644-2211; http://bisonrange.fws.gov.

3. Yellowstone National Park is home to approximately 3,500 bison, many the descendants of the few who survived near-extinction. Weighing up to 2,000 pounds, you’ll likely spot them in the Lamar and Hayden Valleys. Also, be on the look out near Pelican Valley, the Lower Geyser Basin and in Gibbon Meadows.

Contact: Yellowstone National Park; 1 (307) 344-7381; www.nps.gov/yell.

4. Terry Bison Ranch, Cheyenne, WY: This family friendly ranch offers bison viewing year round in an environment dubbed “the west the way you want it” by its owners. A popular reunion spot, families can spread out into eight cabins, 17 bunkhouse rooms, as well as RV sites on the 27,000 acre spread. Home to nearly 3000 bison, the ranch also features train rides, horseback riding, a restaurant and a Trading Post.

Contact: (307) 634-4171; http://www.terrybisonranch.com.

5. Established in 1901, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, in Indiahoma, OK, maintains a bison herd of approximately 600 animals. The 59,020 acre Refuge provides habitat for additional large native grazing animals, including Rocky Mountain elk, and white-tailed deer. Texas longhorn cattle also share the Refuge rangelands as a cultural and historical legacy species. More than 50 mammal, 240 bird, 64 reptile and amphibian, 36 fish, and 806 plant species thrive on this important refuge.

Contact: 1 (580) 429-3222; www.fws.gov/southwest/refuges/oklahoma/wichitamountains/refhist.html;

Open Your Eyes To The Wonder of the World

2012-10-11T00:00:00-07:00

“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.”

Jawaharial Nehru

Segway Fun

2012-10-11T00:00:00-07:00

Segue into adventure by booking one of the more than 200 Segway tours operating around the world. Introduced by American Dean Kamen in 1999, the company announced hopes the electric powered, human transporter would change the way we worked, lived and traveled. Here are five places you can take a guided tour aboard an emissions-free, two-wheeled Segway:

1. Washington DC.

Hop aboard your Segway for a unique tour of our nation’s capital. Consider enjoying the sweet smells and picturesque views of the popular National Cherry Blossom festival from your transporter. Or sign up for “The Lost Symbol” tour and get an insider’s take on the sights and sounds described within Dan Brown’s novel of the same name. Your tour guide will be a member of Washington DC’s oldest Mason lodge and will lead you through a maze of more than 20 historic monuments and memorials including the White House, The Scottish Rite House of the Temple and the Smithsonian Museums on the Mall. Contact: 202.682-1980; www.capitalsegway.com/

2. Los Angeles, CA.

Cruise along the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, people watching from the comfort of your Segway. Take time for a photo stop, capturing the sea-faring surfers, the volley ball matches on the sand and the street performers entertaining on the sidewalk. Wind your way through the canals of Venice, tuning in as your guide lists the famous films that have been made in the area. Enjoy the Southern California sun and the laid back atmosphere of these famed beach communities. Riders must be 12 and over and weigh 100 lbs or more. Contact: 310.395-1395; www.segway.la

3. San Juan, PR.

Experience an alfresco tour of Puerto Rico’s capital, a city rich in Spanish culture and history. Glide through “The Walled City” and learn why the Spaniards built a series of forts and walls to protect their treasures. The sightseeing tour also includes visits to the Darsenas Square, the Governor’s Mansion and other significant sites in the area. Young people will also enjoy the Fortifications Tour, which provides an inside glide through the San Felipe del Morro Fort. Built in 1540, this hefty fortress offers dungeons, tunnels, lookouts and ramps to intrigue the curious traveler. Contact: 787-598-9455; www.SegwayToursPR.com

4. Daytona Beach, FL.

Choose to ride at sunset or when the sun is high in the sky. Either way, you’ll enjoy the sea breeze, people watching and the views along the “World’s Most Famous Beach”. Learn about the famous boardwalk, the clock tower, the city’s racing history and enjoy a stop by some of the city’s local hot spots. You’ll get a 30 minute orientation before hitting the streets aboard your high-tech transporter. Contact: 386-239-7158; www.daytonasegsonthebeach.com.

5. San Francisco, CA.

Enjoy the hills of scenic San Francisco the easy way. Wind your way through Fisherman’s Wharf and the Dungeness crab stands. Check out Ghirardelli Square, the Municipal Pier and Aquatic Park. Catch a glimpse of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t miss the National Maritime Museum and listen up as your guide fills you in on the historic ships that have sailed into the harbor. Before long, your crew will be turning heads as you glide through Little Italy on your eco-friendly, self-balancing transporter. Contact: 415-474-3130; www.electrictourcompany.com.

Note: Most tours require children to be 12 years of age, weigh 100 pounds and be accompanied by an adult. Safety instructions and gear are provided.

Fall Getaway - Colorado x 10

2012-09-06T00:00:00-07:00

It is Fall getaway time and Colorado’s color-soaked leaves are begging to be explored 10 different ways this fall. Cast a line in waders next to autumn gold, soar through fiery red treetops on a zip line, take a leisurely scenic drive or saunter through the forest on horseback to experience Colorado’s mesmerizing fall foliage.

Below are the top 10 ways leaf peepers can witness nature’s artistic wonder this fall season in Colorado.

Horseback Riding.

Settle into a saddle on a guided horseback ride in Steamboat Springs to experience Colorado’s fall frontier just like the cowboys. Amble through the Routt National Forest along timeless American West trails popping with vibrant golden, red and orange leaves.

Bike A Byway.

Begin this aspen-laden ride west of Pueblo on Colorado 96. The Frontier Pathways route climbs into the Wet Mountains and descends into the Wet Mountain Valley, passing aspens blazing in autumn color along the way.

Historic Train.

Travel through the scenic San Juan Mountains aboard the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Between Durango and the historic mining town of Silverton, this locomotive allows passengers to experience color-drenched aspens that line the free-flowing Animas River and ascend the rugged collection of mountain peaks and striking canyon scenery.

Four Wheels.

With a summit at 12,095 feet, Independence Pass connects Aspen – a city named for the quintessential Colorado tree – and Twin Lakes, the largest glacial lake in Colorado and is open during early fall. Independence Pass is rife with stunning autumn colors popping on both sides of the pass and ringed with five 13,000-foot peaks.

Tire Tour.

Fruita’s dirt trails and challenging single tracks wind along huge flattop mesas allowing mountain bikers to discover panoramic views of valleys sprinkled with glowing yellow leaves.

Hot Air Balloon.

Fall’s cooler climate and artist’s palette of nature’s colors make for an ideal time to take to the air. Float above pockets of fall foliage speckled along the Front Range’s peaks and valleys and throughout Rocky Mountain National Park. Take in colorful views on a hot air balloon ride with Fair Winds in Boulder.

Gondola.

Leaf peep the quaking aspens nestled in Telluride’s box canyon while sailing through the trees. The first and only free public transportation of its kind in the U.S., this gondola connects riders between Telluride and Mountain Village, giving passengers an ever-changing view of the crimson and golden leaves along the way.

Two Feet.

Fall’s crown jewel is nestled along Kebler Pass, where a massive aspen cluster of interconnected roots wows hikers with brilliant fall hues. The radiant yellow and red leaves on Kebler create a textured denseness that is unique to this area. Take the hiking trails Kebler Wagon Trail #606 and Dyke Trail #838 for even more leaf peeping opportunities.

Zip line.

The landscape of fiery red, orange and golden leaves will shift as guests soar through autumn-tinted treetops and above deep valleys on one of 14 zip lines throughout the state. Thrill seekers will feel the rush and crisp autumn air as they glide over changing scenes at Zip Adventures near Vail.

Fly-fishing.

Carbondale lies in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley, home to some of the finest rivers for trout fishing, especially from mid-September to mid-October. The deep blue waters starkly contrast the foliage-lined banks bursting with deep scarlets and golds. Tranquility and a wide variety of water types await fly-fishers this fall with Roaring Fork Anglers.

Say Yes To Ice Cream

2012-07-11T00:00:00-07:00

Nothing says summer like ice cream.

And perhaps that’s why an entire month is dedicated to savoring its sweetness.

Thanks to celebrity chef Todd English you and your family can create classic vanilla ice cream at home ( Think tasty staycation! ). Check out the recipe lifted from his most recent cookbook, Cooking in Everyday English!

Todd English’s Vanilla Ice Cream

Courtesy of Cooking in Everyday English

“A total classic! Once you learn how to make the base for this ice cream, you can do all kinds of things with it in addition to the variations below. Mix in chocolate chips or fresh fruit at the end of the freezing, or serve it with chopped bananas and chocolate and caramel sauce for a sundae.”—Todd English

Vanilla bean, ½ split

Half-and-half, 2 cups

Heavy cream, 1 cup

Sugar, ¾ cup

Large egg yolks, 4

Kosher salt, ½ tsp.

Electric Ice-Cream Maker

Scrape seeds from vanilla bean; chop bean.
Bring chopped vanilla bean and seeds, half-and-half, heavy cream and sugar to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl and let stand 30 minutes.
Stir together egg yolks and salt in a large bowl.
Return vanilla bean mixture to saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat. Gradually stir about one-fourth of hot vanilla mixture into yolks; add yolk mixture to remaining hot vanilla mixture, stirring constantly.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, 3 minutes or until mixture coats the back of a spoon. Pour through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a bowl; discard solids.
Fill a large bowl with ice. Place bowl containing vanilla mixture in ice, and let stand, stirring occasionally, until completely cool (about 3 hours).
Pour mixture into freezer container of a 2-qt electric ice-cream maker, and freeze according to manufacturer’s instructions (instructions may vary according to manufacturer’s instructions) 1½ qt.

family + travel

2012-07-05T00:00:00-07:00

family + travel = magnificent memories

What are you waiting for?

Let us help you plan your next

getaway today!

Heading out with the grandkids?

We've got your covered!

5 Great Lake Vacations

2012-05-28T00:00:00-07:00

Float, fish, swim, sail. It’s all possible when you plan a family lake vacation.

Here a five places to consider:

Yellowstone Lake. Yellowstone National Park. For a different view of this high altitude lake, leave the camper vans and crowds behind and travel across the water via cabin cruiser. Then transfer to a sea kayak or canoe and embark

on a short paddle to a small private camp operated by Far & Away Adventures. From this vantage point you and your family will enjoy the serene beauty of this national treasure while tossing a fly line, hiking, observing wild life or paddling to nearby points of interest. Contact: www.Far-Away.com; http://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm

Lake Coeur d’Alene. This Northern Idaho playground is home to more than 55 lakes, including the namesake recreation area where an endless array of water and land-based adventures lures visitors. Families opt for boating, fishing, kayaking and jet boating but make time to enjoy the biking, hiking and and golf that is in abundance on terra firma. The small town, just 30 minutes from Spokane, has also gained popularity for eclectic shopping, festivals, fairs and art walks, creating a vacation option where everyone finds something to write home about. Contact: 877-782-9232; http://coeurdalene.org/

Lake Michigan. For Midwestern hospitality, cherry picking, and fish boils, head to Northern Wisconsin’s Door County. There are loads of family-friendly, lakeside inns and cottages from which to choose. Bike along tree-covered lanes, tour local lighthouses and take your pick from 53 sandy beaches along Lake Michigan. Canoeing, kayaking, sailing and other water sports are plentiful. Spend an afternoon in search of arts and crafts and tasty ice cream cones. Contact: 800-52-RELAX (73529); www.DoorCounty.com.

Lake Winnipesaukee. Wolfeboro, NH. Long a family favorite, this scenic, central New Hampshire lake is cradled by three mountain ranges. The wooded shoreline and more than 200 small islands make for great picnicking, sunning and simply relaxing on or near the water. Visit local galleries and museums, rent bikes, kayaks and canoes, enjoy community theatre or stroll on the beach. Contact: 1-800-516-5324; www.winnipesaukee.com.

Lake Conroe. Montgomery, TX. The only resort on this 22,000 lake, the 445 suite La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa entices families with a 3.5 acre water park, welcome ice cream treats and miniature golf. Spend the day enjoying water sports on the lake, relax by the pools, schedule a treatment within the 17,000 square-foot spa or tee it up on the 18-hole lake front golf course. Fitness buffs will want to take advantage of the 10,000 square-foot fitness center. Ask about family packages. Contact: 877-286-9590; www.latorrettalakeresort.com

Belize Boasts Chaa Creek Lodge

2012-04-16T00:00:00-07:00

The Lodge at Chaa Creek. Near San Ignacio, Belize.

Prince Harry chose this remarkable, riverside eco-lodge as headquarters during a visit to the jungles of this Central American country.

Tucked within a 365-acre private rainforest paradise in the picturesque foothills of the Maya Mountains, Chaa Creek provides the ideal home base for your family’s exploration of the Cayo District, a region where cave tubing, archeological sites, horseback riding and zip lining will lure you from the comfort of your palm-thatched cottage or tree-top suite.

While at the Lodge, don’t miss early morning bird watching tours, the hill-top spa, the Blue Morpho Butterfly Farm and the medicine trail where you’ll learn about the native plants that provide globally significant remedies.

Contact: (877) 709-8708; www.ChaaCreek.com.

Read about other eco holidays here.

Tap Into Tea Shops

2012-04-07T00:00:00-07:00

Tap into the graceful tradition of tea. Here are five special places to consider:

Alice’s Tea Cup. NY, NY. One family’s affection for sharing stories over a steaming cup of fragrant, fresh tea spawned these three neighborhood refuges for tea lovers. Children of all ages are happily perplexed by the nearly overwhelming list of specialty teas as well as temptations like fresh-baked blueberry, raspberry and pumpkin scones,

clotted cream and other mouthwatering creations. Stop by for breakfast, lunch or tea anytime and steep yourselves in an eclectic ambience, where comfortable antiques, sparkly fairy wings and hints of Alice’s Wonderland provide a whimsical haven. The charming hideaways are a favorite destination for Suri Cruise and her mom Katie Holmes. Pick up a copy of the restaurant’s cook book to create your own magic at home. Contact: 212-734-4TEA; www.AlicesTeaCup.

Legacy House Imports Tea Room. Madison, Wisconsin. Laura Schaefer is the author of the children's novel TheTeashop Girls ( Simon & Schuster ) the story of a 13 year old girl determined to keep her Grandmother’s tea shop in business. During a recent book event, Schaefer was impressed by the way the owners of this tea and gift shop provided ambience-inducing hats for young readers to wear during a traditional English afternoon tea service. Guests can browse for unique gift items and then sample a global tea selection, finger sandwiches, light lunch fare and tasty scones. Contact: 608-663-1340; www.legacyhouseimports.com ; www.teashopgirls.com.

Two For Tea. Portland, OR. Check in with master tea maker Steven Smith, to understand the origins of this aromatic beverage. As the founder of Stash Tea and Tazo Tea, Smith shares his expertise by providing tours of his small facility, where visitors can see his new line of high-quality, small batch tea in production, blend a case of their own, or simply sample in the tasting room. Later, head to Portland’s Chinatown to discover the Lan Su Chinese Garden and Tea House, the result of a friendship project between this city and Suzhou, China. Choose from dozens of Chinese teas and then relax in the second story tea room where you’ll have a window onto the authentically built Ming Dynasty style garden below. Contact: www.smithtea.com; www.taooftea.com ; www.portlandchinesegarden.org

Laura’s Tea Room. Ridgeway, SC. Kids will have fun choosing a special hat to wear while sipping specially brewed teas and relaxing with friends and family in a vintage-hued environment. Every week, Tuesday through Friday, youngsters five and older are invited for Wee Tea, a two-course tea service and an opportunity to nibble on chocolate chip scones, tasty sandwiches, sherbet and other taste treats. Take time to admire the work provided by local artists. Reservations required for Wee Tea. Contact: (803) 337-8594; www.LaurasTeaRoom.com.

The Brown Palace Hotel. Denver, Co. For more than 30 years families have gathered in the venerable hotel’s atrium to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and each other’s company. Sip specially brewed teas amidst a bit of western history, as harp or piano music provides a peaceful backdrop. Relish well-crafted tea sandwiches, pastries and Devonshire cream imported directly from England for your culinary pleasure. Reservations recommended. Contact: 303-297-3111; www.BrownPalace.com

Bridal Travel & the TSA

2012-03-21T00:00:00-07:00

Are you or someone in your family planning a destination wedding?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) suggests you carefully consider how you might pass through security with carry-ons that might include a magnificent dress, killer shoes, and just the right shade of nail polish.

And remember, that special bottle of champagne does not pass the three ounces test and it would be a shame to waste it on that trusty crew at the airport who would be sure to whisk it away to….who knows where!

Before you fly – with or without the magnificent dress – take a TSA refresher course here.

Costa Rica

2012-02-03T00:00:00-07:00

Read Chase Guttman's take on Costa Rica for kids.

Here's an excerpt:

At one moment I was suspended hundreds of feet in the air, whooshing through a blur of foliage as I glided 2,000 feet

over the gorgeous green canopy on my zipline cable. Volcanoes on all sides hemmed me in, as I took in this rare aerial

panoramic view. Sooner than I thought possible, I found myself riding a roller coaster of whitewater bouncing from boulder to boulder in my humble little vessel -- a rubber inner tube. It was like hitching a ride inside an aquatic pinball machine. The next thing I knew, I was strolling the simple, funky city streets of coastal Tortuguera, walking by fluorescent-colored buildings and photographing its lively culture.

Just For Teens

2012-01-23T00:00:00-07:00

When it comes to family travel, you might be wondering where to stay that will keep your teens and toddlers smiling?

From manicures to “mocktails”, the options for teens have multiplied significantly in the last decade. Many resorts now offer uber-hip, teen-only spaces, providing a contemporary hang out for dancing, games and music.

Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas led the way with their swanky 14,000 square-foot club Crush.

San Diego’s Hotel Del Coronado’s features the popular, teen-only Vibz.

Headed to Tucson?

Your teens will be all smiles when you check into the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort . They’ll be quick to check out the new Blur lounge where Play Station and “PopTails” are underway.

Contact: ww.atlantis.com/kids/kidactivities/crush.aspx;

Travel Write?

2012-01-08T00:00:00-07:00

So you want to write a travel book?

Or the story of your life? Or a spine tingling thriller?

Go here for tips on how to make it happen!

Quinoa at Canyon Ranch

2011-10-04T00:00:00-07:00

Can't make it to the spa this month?

Eat healthy now and book a stay later!

Canyon Ranch (Massachusetts)
Quinoa & Endive Salad

Recipe

1 cup dry quinoa
3 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup carrots, julienne
1/4 cup diced red or yellow bell peppers
2 tablespoons diced red onions
2 tablespoons dried currants (or raisins)
2 tablespoons crushed almonds

Dressing:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon chopped mint

3 ounces Belgium endive

1. Preheat toaster oven to 375°.
2. Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Lightly coat a baking sheet with canola oil spray. Spread quinoa evenly on sheet. Toast for 5 minutes or until golden.
3. In a medium saucepan, over high heat, bring water to a boil and add toasted quinoa. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until all liquid has been absorbed. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, toss together carrots, bell peppers, onions, currants or raisins and almonds.
5. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients for dressing.
6. Add quinoa and dressing to bowl with vegetables and stir together until well combined.
7. Place 3 endive leaves on a plate and top with 1/2 cup quinoa salad. Repeat for remaining salads.

Serving Information
Makes 16 servings, each containing approximately:
85 calories, 10 gm. carbohydrate, 4 gm. fat, 0 mg. cholesterol, 3 gm protein, 46 mg. sodium, 1 gm fiber