3 Kids and Us

Planning Your Summer Orlando Trip Starts Right Now

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If you have decided to take the family away to Orlando this summer then I can tell you from experience that right now, just after the holiday season is over, is when you need to start making your plans. So far we have done 3 ‘tours’ of Orlando and I can completely understand why so many families flock there each and every year, it truly is a special place which you are going to fall in love with. That first year we left things pretty late in terms of planning and we really paid for it by missing out on some of things that we’d really had our hearts set on. I made sure that this didn’t happen again, and here is why you need to get your planning hat on right now.

Finances

As I mentioned, Orlando makes for a truly perfect holiday destination, but perfection really does come at a cost. From your flights to the hotels, attractions to the food and shopping that your are going to be spending money on, this is a family trip that runs well into the thousands. There is little point in having this amazing adventure with your family if you spend the next 4 months with a tight purse trying to pay off your credit card. Get saving now and you can ensure that the outgoings don’t cause you anxiety whilst you are on vacation.

Big Discounts

There are very often some outstanding discounts on theme park tickets in Orlando to the likes of Disney and Universal, but you have to be on top of things if you wish to get your hands on them. If you start keeping an eye discount sites now, as well as the official park sites, you are going to be in prime position to get those discounts when they roll around. The cost savings which you can make when you do this are huge, so make sure that you have an eagle eye ready, starting from now.

Availability

For some vacations you can leave booking the hotel until the very last minute, safe in the knowledge that you may be able to bag yourself a great deal at short notice. Things don’t work like this in Orlando, especially not during summertime. If you want the best hotels and the most availability, now is the time that you should be booking up, don’t leave it too late.

Itinerary

There is just so many things to do, see and experience in Orlando and the surrounding areas that you are going to have to seriously invest some time in planning the holiday if you want to get the most from it. Logistics alone can be a nightmare, working out where to stay and when, which days to do one activity and which days to do another. The stress of planning a vacation like this should not be overlooked, especially if you don’t get started until much further down the line. Speak with the family about what they’d like to do, research each activity and plot out how you will be spending each day of your trip. There is little time for spontaneity in Orlando, as there is more than enough to do during your break, and you aren’t going to want to veer away from that.

Kid-Friendly Attractions in Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Whether you’re looking for some activities to do outdoors or want to spend quality time inside, there are spectacular places in Albuquerque, New Mexico to spend time with the kids. Kid-friendly activities such as looking at hot-air balloons, visiting the aquarium, and walking through botanical gardens are just a few of the options.

In this piece, we have listed some things to do in Albuquerque where you can take your kids to have a fun and exciting experience while when you’re paying a visit to New Mexico.

1. ABQ BioPark Zoo

Situated next to the Rio Grande, ABQ BioPark Zoo is 64-acre Zoo which has been providing guests close encounters with exotic and native animals since 1927. The place is home to more than 200 animal species, such as camel, koala, lion, among others.

Children will surely be thrilled by the Rio Grande Garden’s Fantasy Garden as they can enjoy the wonderful sights of seed packets and bees, and a pumpkin which is as large as a house. The Butterfly Pavilion is also another attraction which is open from late May through September. The many varied gardens provide cool shade, a model railroad, a pond, and various seasonal flower displays. The ABQ BioPark Zoo is just a perfect getaway for your kids as it also right next to another great attraction – the Albuquerque Aquarium.

2. Albuquerque Aquarium

Albuquerque Aquarium showcases the aquatic life of the Rio Grande and the ocean it feeds into. Thanks to the location of Albuquerque, the aquarium’s exhibits highlight the river’s life-long journey. At the aquarium, your family can surely enjoy observing stingrays at close range, meet barracudas and watch bamboo sharks.

The aquarium has both fresh and saltwater tanks so your kids will surely be amazed by the turtles, sharks and lobsters in the deep ocean tank. They will also see luminous jellyfish, an eel tunnel where eels slither overhead and a shrimp boat.

Upon entering the attraction, travelers will easily mesmerized by the charm of the river through a series of small aquarium tanks, showcasing the fishes and other species of the Rio Grande. Right next to it is a mini-movie theatre which plays a brief educational video for the visitor about the life of the river. Outside the cinema, visitors will be surprised by the open-top tank which is patrolled by stingrays, while a shrimp boat lies run-aground in the background.

3. Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum

Situated at 9201 Balloon Museum Drive NE in Albuquerque, the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum attracts infinite curious travelers annually to witness their extraordinary exhibits with their own eyes. Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum has been educating the community about everything in the realm of hot air ballooning for more than a hundred years. It also features a step-in balloon basket where kids can enjoy a virtual ride in a balloon gondola.

If you are thinking of ways to give your children extraordinary yet educational experience, take them to Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum as they can learn a lot about the history of a hot air balloon, barnstorming and the famous International Balloon Fiesta held in Albuquerque every fall while having so much fun at the same time!

4. Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

If you are looking for something educational and cultural, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center will you a multifaceted introduction to Pueblo culture. Established in 1976, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center was created as a way to portray the art, traditions, and foods of Pueblo People while providing assistance and resources to local tribes.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center showcases the world of nineteen Indian Pueblos, with museum exhibits that take visitors back through time. The center also houses crafts and arts on display, drumming, rotating art exhibits, and a whole variety of dances. If you are planning on visiting the center, try to inquire ahead if there will be bread baking demonstrations in the traditional oven. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is near downtown Albuquerque and other local tourist attractions.

5. The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science

Albuquerque offers a myriad of fun activities for kids that can give them an unforgettable experience. One activity you should consider doing while you are here is visiting an Albuquerque museum. You would not want to miss the varied selections of dinosaurs of the New Mexico Museum of Natural History – from one brontosaurus on the second floor to the one flying overhead in the atrium – your whole family will certainly enjoy the museum.

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science also has prehistoric dinosaurs that roam around the halls; computer exhibits are also available where your kids can create their own videos while an exhibit is also available on the exploration of outer space.

Endless events are hosted by the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science that are designed to entertain and engage the local and foreign community alike. You may want to enjoy workshops and classes that deal with comprehensive topics, such as dinosaurs, astronomy, insects, and a whole lot more. The museum also hosts seasonal events to observe holidays as well.

If you consider going to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, it is important to look at their calendar so you can get a quick overview of what’s on their latest upcoming activities. Museum tours are available weekly so you can enjoy an informative yet meaningful experience by viewing all the unbelievable exhibits displayed here!

6. Sandia Peak Tramway

It is one of Albuquerque’s unique attractions to make your New Mexico trip more exciting and fun! The Sandia Peak Tramway is a must-see attraction as it will take you on the ride to get a bird’s eye view of the spectacular side of Albuquerque! This 2.7-mile journey in a tram car is fun by itself but the main part is once you reach the top as you can see the whole city from 10,378 feet.

If you are planning on taking a ride on Sandia Peak Tramway, do not miss to spend some time on the observation deck looking at Albuquerque down below. You may also want to consider dropping by the Sandia Ranger Station where you can get maps to help you unravel the beautiful trails and animals that live at such high altitudes. If you want to have a more memorable experience, see the ski museum at the base of the tram or take a hike for more adventure!

Great Places for Families to Visit in Southern CaliforniaGreat Places for Fa

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California is one of the most popular states to visit in the entire US. From the mountainous, northern regions, down through the Bay Area and onward to the coastal south, there are countless activities and sites to see that would entertain someone of any age. However, it is Southern California that has stolen the spotlight from the rest of the state. The culture, climate and overall atmosphere in this area have made it very popular with out of state visitors. Here are some great places for families to visit in Southern California.

1. Carlsbad

Located near San Diego, Carlsbad is home to a stunning array of sites and activities for the whole entire family. The Flower Fields is located in the Carlsbad Ranch and is home to nearly 50 acres of beautiful flower blossoms in the springtime. South Carlsbad State Beach is another popular family destination known for the swimming, surfing, camping and outdoor activities that are available. The San Elijo Lagoon is another great outdoor attraction with beautiful hiking trails along the waterside. For those looking to get away from the heat, the SEA Life Aquarium is a great place to see a wide variety of marine life. To learn more about all the fun things to do in Carlsbad, check out the official site for Carlsbad tourism info and travel recommendations.

2. Death Valley National Park

Although the name doesn’t sound welcoming, the iconic Death Valley National Park is a wonderful place to visit in Southern California. This national park is located on the border of Nevada and sees some of the hottest temperatures in the entire United States. The natural rock formations have been an attraction at this park for hundreds of years. The park is also home to famous salt flats and has an abandoned town. Even a short drive through Death Valley National Park is enough to capture the immense beauty that this place has to offer.

3. San Diego

There isn’t a better place to visit on a family trip to California than the San Diego Zoo. This zoo has been rated the top in the United States several different times. The San Diego Zoo boasts over 3,700 animals and 650 different species. The open-air exhibits were actually first designed by this zoo, offering a truly unique experience. The San Diego Zoo is also one of the only places in the world to successfully breed the giant panda. Members of the entire family will enjoy a whole day exploring the vast sites that this zoo has to offer.

4. Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier is another great attraction for the whole family to visit when in Southern California. The pier features a host of attractions including a Ferris wheel, arcade center, an aquarium, pubs and restaurants, trapeze school and more. During the summer, there are more activities such as concerts and movies taking place along the pier. Although the evening is a popular time to visit the Santa Monica Pier, any family could easily spend the entire day enjoying all that this place has to offer. Santa Monica Pier is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean and is over 100 years old.

Southern California is one of the most popular places for families to visit in the entire United States. The mild climate, laid-back atmosphere and host of fun attractions make this region the perfect family vacation. All of the places listed are great fun for the entire family and should not be missed on a trip to Southern California. More exploration of this region will reveal even more hidden gems.

What You And Your Family Can Anticipate For Your Upcoming Florida Trip

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If you plan on taking your family away to the Sunshine State of Florida this year, you can be sure that you are in for a vacation that you will never forget. This is a state which is designed for holidaymakers and in each city and town within Florida, there is something on offer for everyone. It is no surprise that so many millions of people flock to Florida each year, predominantly families, and the infrastructure for tourism here is like nowhere else in the world.

Before you head off on your trip, it is important to understand what you are in for, and here are just some of the things which you can anticipate ahead of your journey.

Heat

Whilst there may be the odd tropical storm down in Florida, it is fair to say that this is rare and what you should be expecting, is searing heat. The heat in Florida is not always of the humid variety which means that it is rarely uncomfortable in the same way that desert heat is. During your trip to Florida you can pretty much guarantee sunshine and hot weather each and every day, giving you reasons to be cautious. There are no special measures to be taken during your time in Florida, just the normal protection that you would expect in the sunshine. On a trip to Florida, the kids in particular will feel the heat and the effects of the sun more than parents, so make sure that you have plenty of high factor suncream and skin covering clothes.

Theme Parks

Florida offers a large range of theme parks from Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Busch Gardens and Jungle Island to name just a few. Whether this is your biggest reason for heading to Florida or not, one thing that is for sure is that you are going to have a lot of choice when it comes to enjoying the wild rides and adrenalin-fuelled adventures that you can find at a theme park. The range in parks means that there is something for all ages and all tastes. Make sure that you plan well when it comes to taking your family to theme parks as tickets will sell quickly, and they will take up a large amount of your holiday.

Excitement

There is always excitement for any vacation, but here the levels of excitement can hit the roof, and you should be aware of that. A fortnight in Greece or a week in the south of Spain will of course excite the family, but nothing like what you will see here in Florida. The combination of sunshine, fun activities, new places, amazing food and general happiness, can really take its toll and many even say that after a Floridian vacation, they need a break to come down from all of the excitement. Whilst this is true for everyone that comes to Florida, those with your children in particular will experience the sheer extremity of the excitement levels which their kids can reach.

Your choice to vacation in Florida will prove to be one of the best that you have ever taken, mark our words.

Little-Known New York City Attractions You Need to Visit

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Have you been to New York City a few times on vacation? Are you looking for unique attractions that are a little off the beaten path? Taking in the beauty of this city on a Liberty Cruise in Downtown, NYC or visiting local shops and eateries is a great way to have a one of a kind experience.

While popular tourist destinations can be fun, many travelers want to experience the Big Apple like a local. Here are some little-known New York City attractions you need to visit on your next trip.

BLDG 92

This museum, which pays homage to the Brooklyn Navy Yard, is located in what used to be a military residence in this shipbuilding center. At its peak during the Second World War, the Brooklyn Navy Yard employed nearly 70,000 people. This museum features exhibits of famous ships like the USS Monitor and the USS Arizona.

Both of these ships were constructed in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, along with countless others. As you journey through this museum, you will hear little-known stories about how many people of color helped during the building and repair of these ships.

The Panorama of the City of New York

Are you interested in seeing a nearly 10,000 square-foot model of New York City? If so, then a visit to the Panorama of the City of New York is in order. This model allows visitors to examine every inch of the four Boroughs like never before. There is a large balcony in this museum that allows visitors to get a bird’s eye view of this model.

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum

The property known as the Bartow-Pell mansion dates back to the early 17th century. Its owner, Thomas Pell is famous for signing a treaty with Siwanoy Indians for the purchase of the Bronx borough. This residence is located in Pelham Bay Park and is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful foliage.

In 1888, the City of New York purchased this property and began updating it. Taking a tour of this property will allow you to see the carriage house and the gorgeous formal gardens on the property.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center

This former home for retired sailors is one of the most popular attractions on Staten Island. The Snug Harbor Cultural Center is spread out across 83 acres of land. The center is surrounded by cobblestone streets, Victorian homes and a large botanical garden.

While there, be sure to visit the Chinese Scholar’s Garden. This garden features large rocks that resemble formations described by in writings by Confucian and Taoist monks. There is also a bamboo forest that has a large Koi-filled pond.

The Woolworth Building

The Woolworth Building is one of New York City’s tallest structures. When it was completed in 1913, it was actually the tallest building in the city. During the opening of this building, President Woodrow Wilson turned on the first light switch.

New York City is filled with interesting and entertaining attractions. Getting out and exploring while on vacation in this city is the best way to have a completely unique experience.

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We left our home in Sydney, Australia many moons ago in May 2012 and, other than a brief stint back in Perth for Christmas and a wedding in early 2014, we have been travelling the world nomadically ever since, running a business from our laptops and we’re here to show you how to do it!