Great European River Cruises for Families

Although riverboats are generally smaller and offer fewer on-board facilities than traditional ocean-going cruise ships, this does not mean European river cruises are unsuitable for travelers with children.  European waterways are usually calm and smooth, offering a comfortable and scenic mode of transportation throughout the continent.  River cruise itineraries also allow independent exploration at their ports of call as opposed to organized shore excursions, allowing families to customize activities to suit their children.

Uniworld's Castles along the Rhine

Uniworld's Castles along the Rhine cruise is a nine-day journey from the Swiss city of Basel through western Germany to Amsterdam, ( or you can travel the other direction).  Families who take this cruise in summer months enjoy a provided "multi-generational family-friendly program."  Another family-friendly provision is the complimentary use of bicycles for exploring the towns and countryside of the Rhine River Valley.  The itinerary offers activities suitable for guests of various ages and interest, such as a canal boat cruise and tour of the fairytale-like Petite France district of Strasbourg, and a tour of the compact medieval town of Speyer.  On Day 7, passengers will enjoy the sight of more than 40 castles along the middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Viking River Cruises' Tulips and Windmills

During Viking River Cruises' Tulips and Windmills cruise, passengers of all ages will delight in Holland's colorful landscape of blooming tulip fields interspersed with characteristic Dutch windmills and preserved medieval cities.  The 10-day journey begins and ends in Amsterdam, where you'll explore the picturesque city on foot, canal boat or bicycle.  Consult the cruise's program director for assistance in choosing child-friendly activities in Amsterdam and each port of call.

The first stop is in Hoorn, an ancient shipping village.  On Day 4, see the Dutch royal family's summer palace and consider an optional battlefield tour.  In the 18th-century town of Kinderdijk, you will tour a working windmill and learn about its mechanisms.  In the Flemish capital, Antwerp, tour the city's landmarks in the morning and enjoy free time in the afternoon.  Other featured destinations are Ghent, Brugge, Middleurg, and Rotterdam, the world's second largest port.  Free time is allotted throughout the cruise, allowing for numerous independent excursions and activities of your choice.

Tauck Bridges' Blue Danube: Family Riverboat Adventure

The Blue Danube: Family Riverboat Adventure, presented by Tauck Bridges, is an eight-day journey through five European countries that is designed specifically for families.  Highlights of the cruise through the waterways of Budapest, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany include whitewater rafting in Bratislava; visiting the 1441-room royal Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna; and a scenic bicycle tour along the Danube from the medieval Austrian town of Durnstein.  While onboard, you will dine on the local specialties of the current location, and have the chance to make German-style marzipan treats and Viennese strudel.  Day four of the cruise is dedicated to family-friendly attractions at the Vienna Prater amusement park, which boasts more than 250 rides.  The cruise begins in Budapest and ends in Passau, Germany.

The Best of Natural Kauai: Hawaii's Paradise

When planning for a trip to Hawaii, if your like most people you look at the islands of Oahu, Maui, or maybe the Big Island.  If you do not include the island of Kauai on you list, you may be missing the most perfect vacation getaway.  Known as the the "garden island", Kauai is the oldest island in the Hawaiian chain, and for the people who have visited there, most say it is the best.  The island is synonymous with beauty; with lush jungle mountains, stunning waterfalls, remote white sand beaches, and some of the friendliest people you will ever meet.  It's location as the northern most island, and over 80% of the island unreachable by road, give it a a feel that you have paradise all to yourself.  Words cannot describe the simple beauty of this island, but National Geographic continues to vote this tiny island in the Pacific as one of the Top 50 Places in the World to Visit, Live and Play.  Here are just a few of best places to see and experience if your lucky enough to visit this paradise.  After exploring Kauai, you too may just forget about the rest of the world.

Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea is the largest canyon in the Pacific and will undoubtedly capture your gaze, with its 10 mile long stretch at a mile wide and measuring more than 3500 feet deep.  The history of Kauai can be seen in the walls and crags of the canyon as you explore the more than 45 miles of trails.  This is a truly remarkable sight, offering numerous scenic overlooks and photo opportunities.

Surrounding the Waimea Canyon is the Kokee State Park which occupies 4345 acres.  Norfork pines, Koa hardwoods, native plants and wildlife are just a small fraction of what you will see here.  A great way to explore the canyon and state park is to hit the trails.  There are dozens of hiking trails for every level of expertise.  A popular hike is the Pihea Alakai Boardwalk Trail, which is a must do while visiting Kauai.  This hike is a challenging yet rewarding hike that will take you to the edge of one of the most spectacular valleys and on a clear day vistas of Hanalei Bay and as far as the Kilauea Light House.

The Napali Coast
The Napali Coast is a fifteen mile coastline that stretches from the north end of the island at Kee beach to the west side at Polihale beach.  The Napali coast is accessible only by boat with the exception of the 12 mile stretch of coastline along the Kalalau Trail.  This remarkable coast carved out by years of erosion is made up of sheer sea cliffs rising to heights of 4000 feet, hanging valleys, sea caves, and cascading waterfalls that make their way to the ocean from thousands of feet above.

The Kakakau Trail provides the only land access to the Napali Coast.  The trail begins at Kee Beach in Haena and ending after a challenging 11 miles at Kalalau Beach.  The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crisscrosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys, dropping to sea level on the beaches of Hanakapiai and Kaalau.  Don your hiking shoes and trek the first two miles into Hanakapiai Beach, kayak the coast during the calm of the summer months or book a boat or helicopter trip to experience one of the many wonders of Kauai.

Wailua Falls
The Wailua Falls are one of Kauai's little secrets known not only for its flowing beauty, but also ease of access.  This 140 foot waterfall appears on many postcards, print, and media collections and was used as the opening scene on the Television series Fantasy Island.  These easy to photograph falls will involve no hiking.  The size and the appearance of the falls is determined by the amount of rainfall further up the mountains.

Hanalei Valley and the North Shore
The valley is one of the most beautiful and lush places in all Hawaii and some argue the world.  Hanalei is surrounded by majestic mountains and countless cascading waterfalls that drain into the lush valley, taro fields, and rivers below.  If that doesn't bring you to your senses then perhaps Hanalei Bay with its perfect swimming waves and soft white sands may entice you.  You will also want to spend some time on the Hanalei Bay and explore the eight mile scenic drive from the town of Hanalei to the end of the road at Kee Beach.

Polihale Beach
This stunning beach is the longest stretch of white sand beach in Hawaii.  Located at the end of an old dirt cane haul road off the last stretch of highway on the West Side.  This is a favorite and beautiful beach for long walks, amazing sunsets and camping with the proper permits.  Ocean conditions can be dangerous especially during the winter months.  Polihale is exposed to the open ocean with no protective reefs and no lifeguard.

Along with all these natural wonders there are numerous activities and fun things to do.  So experience Kauai for yourself and create your own Best of Kauai List.

How to Pack for an Extended Vacation to Hawaii

Packing for a trip longer than 7-days to Hawaii can be an easy task with some organization and prep time.  The items you bring depend to some extent on your personal preferences and planned activities, but certain things such as sun-protection gear, are vital for everyone.  Make a list of your Hawaiian  essentials so you can focus on the sun, surf and Polynesian culture, and not on what you left behind.

Step 1
Pack the things that will take up the most room in your suitcase first, such as your shoes.  Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing, plus flip-flops or other flat, open-toed footwear for the beach.  If you plan to hike through one of Hawaii's tropical jungles or mountains, bring hiking or running shoes.

Step 2
Pack light, comfortable clothing such as shorts, sundresses, and sleeveless shirts that allow your body to breathe in the tropical heat.  Bring at least one sweatshirt or light jacket to keep warm during breezy nights, occasional rainfall and trips to high altitudes, such as the Big Island's Mauna Loa or Mauna Kea.  One thing you can leave behind is formal attire, since Hawaii is known for its Aloha-wear, the casual clothing that mirrors the relaxed pace of island life.  Hawaii stays mostly sunny throughout the year, with temperature shifting no more than 10 to 15 degrees F.

Step 3
Bring your beachwear, since you'll likely be spending a decent amount of time on one of Hawaii's many beautiful beaches.  Bring a couple of swimsuits, (one to wear when the other has been wet and is drying), water shoes and cover-ups such as board shorts, T-shirts or light sundresses.  You might want to bring a beach towel, since they're not always provided by hotels.  Consider buying a water safe, which you can wear while frolicking around in the ocean and not have to leave your valuables exposed on a beach towel.  You can find these at most sporting goods retailers.  If you have room to spare, and are on a tight budget, you can pack snorkeling gear, but these can usually be rented cheaply or borrowing for free from your hotel.

Step 4
Pack your camera, prescription or over-the-counter medications, a photo ID such as a license, along with a photo-copy for backup, and any debit or credit cards.  Keep these items in your carry-on bags to prevent problems in case of lost or stolen luggage.

Step 5
Bring a sun-protection kit that includes sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher, sunglasses and hats.  The Hawaiian islands are close to the equator, where the sun's rays are the strongest.

Experiencing the Provence Region of France

Ask any travel expert, what one region a visitor to France should visit outside of Paris, and the answer is almost universal: Provence.  Boasting so many great sights, sounds and tastes, the only difficult part about deciding to take a trip to Provence could very well be deciding where to go and what to see.  It is a sun-soaked region marked by azure Mediterranean waters and cobalt blue skies, field of deep purple lavender, bright sunflowers, poppies, and olive and lemon trees, and was a famously favored region of impressionist painters Van Gogh and Cezanne, who used the pervasive light and stunning palette of colors to paint their vivid landscapes.

The Provencal countryside and port of Marseille can still be characterized today as they have been for centuries - old men gathered in town squares, people clinking glasses of pastis in the shade of cafe terraces; market stalls with the season's bounty from local farms; fish coming straight from the boat to Marseille's fish market; Roman ruins and medieval cobblestoned villages.  It is no wonder Provence is one of the most popular areas to visit in France.  But unlike some places that don't live up to the hype, Provence deserves all the accolades it receives.  Since there is to much to explore on a normal visit to this diverse and colorful region, here is my list of the top 5 things to do and see in Provence to gain a small but special sample for this special place.

1. Stroll through Marseille's Vieux Port and eat  bouillabaisse

Marseille, being the second-largest city in France, is certainly not what many people picture when they envision quiet stone villages set among fields of lavender.  It is a big and gritty city, but don't let that discourage you from making a visit.  Visitors to Marseille should not miss heading to the Vieux Port area of the city, where you will find market stalls filled with Provencal products, Moroccan-like souks, and a centuries old fish market with wares coming straight off the boats behind it.  In Vieux Port's Le Panier neighborhood, you'll find narrow, winding streets and authentic shops.  You'll also find pedestrianized shopping streets such as Rue  St-Feereol.  Make sure you stop somewhere and get a steamy bowl of bouillabaisse, a traditional fish stew containing different kinds of fish, shellfish and vegetables, flavored with a variety of herbs and spices such as garlic, orange peel, basil, bay leaf, fennel, and saffron.

2. Visit the Palais de Papes and the famous the Pont d'Avignon

Avignon has long been one of the favorite cities to visit in Provence.  It has impressive and amazing well preserved art and architecture, so it is not only picturesque, but also oozes history.  The Papal Palace, which was home to several popes during the 14th century, boasts cavernous halls, beautiful grounds, (a great place for that French picnic you want to do), and is the largest Gothic palace in the world.  While Avignon is probably most noted for its famous bridge, Pont St. Benezet or the Pont d'Avignon, it is a vibrant city with an active student community, lots of history and makes for a great jumping off point for exploring the region.

3. Check out Roman ruins in the charming village of Saint-Remy-de-Provence

Located just 20 km south of Avignon, Saint Remy de Provence is a quaint, traditional Provencal village. Marked by Roman ruins (specifically the Triumphant Arch of Glanum), Saint Remy is a sleepy town with a whole lot of history.  Not only was it once the site of a Roman city, it was also where Van Gogh was housed at the Monastery de Mausole for his many psychiatric problems.

There is a beautiful town square in this usually sleepy town, which has a good selection of hotels, restaurants and shops.  On Wednesdays, Saint Remy is home to a popular and bustling market.  Stalls of fresh produce, pottery, and other Provencal goods fill the city.  The the atmosphere is lively and pleasant, and seems to take you back in time.

4. Visit the ancient stone village of Les Baux

Alothough on of the most visited spots in France, Les Baux is well worth the effort.  It's located about 25km south of Avignon just past the small town of Saint Remy de Provence, sitting precariously on a 245-meter high limestone rocky spur.  This unique, spectacular village has been home to humans since 6000 BCE, and during the Middle Ages was home to the most powerful feudal lords in southern France.  The dramatic rocks and cliffs overlooking a valley full of olive groves and vineyards have long inspired authors and artists, and is even said to be the inspiration for Dante's descriptions of Purgatory in the Inferno.  It is a truly spectacular spot and should not be missed on a trip to France.

5.  Hang out at the beach and explore the Calanques at Cassis

Although not nearly as famous as its nearby neighbor, Cassis is just as delightful as St. Tropez with an equally beautiful town and beach defined by white limestone cliffs and sheltered inlets called calanques.  It also has a lovely, wide sandy beach perfect for getting your tan on in the summer.

Cassis was an ancient fishing port and was rebuilt on the old ruins in the 18th century, resulting in a more regular layout than most other medieval villages.  A walk through the old village streets will reveal well preserved old buildings, some dating back to the 16th century, and some restored with the colorful pastels of Provence.  The picture-perfect harbor is dotted with masts and fishing boats.  Although not an undiscovered beach town in France, Cassis tends to be less crowded than other Mediterranean cities and nearby Marseille.

Oh Canada! What You Need To Know

Our friendly neighbors to the North, home of hockey and Tim Horton's coffee & donuts. I know many to consider Canada as almost an extension of the US, but it is a foreign country and there are requirements to enter either by car, air or sea that need to be taken into consideration. Don't meet the requirements you will be turned back. And there is one issue here that may surprise you.

1. Proper Identification- Since 2009 a current passport is required to enter Canada, no special exemption for Americans. Now if you are driving a state with an enhanced driver's license will work. Flying? Airlines require a passport book, not the passport card or enhanced driver's license.

2. Who's Kid is That?- Kids need identification also, plus if they are travelling with only one parent, grandparents or friends a notarized letter stating that the children are known to be travelling needs to be taken along. Divorced? Custody paperwork should also be taken along. With any country border/immigration officials are on the lookout for abducted children.

3. Don't forget Pet Documentation- Yes even Fido & Fifi need paperwork from your veterinarian on their breed, physical description and are they up to date on their shots.

4. Firearms Without Permits- Certain guns can be brought into Canada, but all the paperwork needs to be done head of time. If you are hunting you will need a provincial hunting license also. For more info importing firearms.

5. DUI in your history? Yes you will not be able to enter Canada if you have had a recent DUI conviction. Driving under the influence is a serious offense in Canada, along with assault and theft. Depending on how long ago your conviction was there are various ways to become rehabilitated in the eyes of the Canadian government. Overcoming Criminal Convictions.

So what does this mean for travelers? The main issue will be doing Alaskan Cruisetours, since they usually start or end in Vancouver and the roundtrip cruises out of Seattle. Also Canada/New England cruises. There have been some great Air Canada fares to Europe with connections in Toronto, that could be a problem.

Unique Autumn Destinations in Europe

Autumn is a wonderful time of year to explore new places and enjoy the natural changes of the season.  It's a great time to travel abroad and explore Europe, a time when there are far fewer travelers than in the summer.From early September to late October there are plenty of things to do across Europe and the UK in the perfect weather and atmosphere.  In addition, if you have been to Europe before, and want to see something outside of London or Paris, or you just like to do unique things on your vacations; here are some unique and great destinations that are popular on the continent, and more Americans should experience.

United Kingdom

A popular autumn activity that is popular for tens of thousands of people are walking tours thru the countryside and thru the estates of the entire United Kingdom.  It is a great way to experience all the regional uniqueness and be to view some stunning scenery.  Within the UK there are some great walking tours in the autumn months.  The North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festival , on the southwest coast of England, takes place in early October for four to 10 miles along the cliffs of north Devon.

The best thing about this picturesque walking tour is perhaps the fact it occurs at the same time as the Exmoor Food Festival which walkers can enjoy.  Exmoor provides pub stops, teas and farmhouse lunches.

Northumberland in the north also puts on a night walk in late October over the Cheviot Hills.  Daytime hikes likewise take place in Northumberland that explore the geological structures of the region.


Italy

Traveling abroad to Tuscany is a great idea in the autumn season when the wine harvests are taking place.  The Chianti Grape Festival offers 800 wines to taste and many locals dress up in costume to celebrate.  Or check out the hill towns in the south of Umbria.  Most of these towns were built on Roman foundations and rebuilt sometime in the Middle Ages.  Italy gives you a terrific blend of culture, food, and wine that you can enjoy in some of the best weather during the autumn months.


Greece

The Peloponnese in Greece gives you a historic and archaeological getaway in the autumn.  With ruins of Mycenae and the Olympia stadium with the original racetrack, you will find plenty of adventures while learning about the culture and history of the ancient Greeks.  The added benefit of missing the oppressive heat of
summer and enjoying nearly perfect weather during the autumn season is just an added benefit.


Germany

I know, millions of people celebrate Oktoberfest in Munich every year from September to mid-October.  If you like fun and the ultimate party, you ow it to yourself to go to the granddaddy of all festivals.  Visitors go to beer tents, small food stalls, and carnival rides, most of which keep going until midnight during the festivals.

Oktoberfest holds several parades starting with the Grand Entry of Oktoberfest Landlords and Breweries, which moves for four miles through the center of the city.  The favourite meat of the festival is pork and you will find haxen pork knuckles, schweinsbraten roasted pork and sausages served with sauerkraut.  Add the charms of the city itself and and the magic of the Bavarian region itself, and you truly have a special vacation.

Strategies for a Last Minute Summer Getaway

Its happened again.  You meant to plan a summer vacation.  But it seemed like you had plenty of time, and there was always something else to do.  Now, somehow you're staring down the summer months.  No worries:  I've got some tactics for pulling it off, on the double!

Stay Flexible
You may assume that you'll have to be totally open on the dates to be able to take a trip before Labor Day.  But it's actually more important to have wiggle room with the place.  Sure, your heart may be set on an iconic dream destination, but a lot of other people's hearts at too.  You may want to go to Hawaii at the last minute--but that may not be the best idea.  Pick a date range, define the type of vacation you're hankering for; say a beach, hiking, or city wandering.  Then hunt through that wider lens; and even then you should keep an open mind.

Go to Extremes
Focus your search on two extremes; either under-the-radar places or locations where everyone goes.  For example, unknown beach towns can be a little kitschy and maybe a summer fog pattern can roll in, (there's always a trade-off), but then you open the door to your room to a great ocean front view and a quiet beach, and you say to your self, Yes!  Or flip this script completely by taking a chance on a mega-popular family destination like Orlando.  Due to the shear number of guests they expect in the summer, last-minute cancellations can be scavenged.  Places you probably won't have any luck?  Well-loved but small scale destinations such as Cape Cod.

Elevate Your Mind (And Your Family) at a Ski Resort
"Winter" resorts like Vail, CO, and Park City, UT, make for refreshing summer escapes.  They're cooler than a sweltering amusement park, full of adventure sports like mountain biking and kayaking, and relatively uncrowded.  I like to recommend them to my clients because they host plenty of activities, festivals and concerts geared toward families in order to attract more visitors during their downtime.  For families on the run, that kind of no-plan-required fun works out great.

Get a Package from a Pro
For the procrastinating traveler, the issue usually comes down too not enough time.  Now ask your self, do you suddenly have more time to plan all the details for that last minute getaway?  The answer; let a travel professional create a complete vacation package for you.  A travel pro will work with you to create the perfect customized vacation, and handle the details, saving you precious time.  In addition, with their contacts industry knowledge, they have pricing and availability that most people will not find on their own.  The result is a great vacation package that saves you time and money: you just have to pack your bags and go have fun.