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Chico’s Paradise – One Of My Favorite Puerto Vallarta Activities

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I have been to Puerto Vallarta twice for one day, each time while on cruises. I loved it both times and have vowed to go again for a longer stay to really explore the city and its beautiful surroundings. (It’s on my ever-growing travel list.) Each time I’ve been there, though, I’ve done the same thing, and if I were planning my next trip there, I’d do it again. It’s one of my favorite Puerto Vallarta activities:  Chico’s Paradise.

Chico’s Paradise is about a 30- to 45-minute drive out of Puerto Vallarta into the mountains above Mismaloya. The drive alone is stunning with views of the coast, mountains and jungle. You can arrange for a taxi or van to take you there and wait while you eat and explore. Each time we’ve negotiated a set price with our driver that included a brief city tour, stops along some of the scenic look-outs in the city, and the trip to Chico’s Paradise.

Puerto Vallarta Activities - Chico's Paradise Divers

Kids and adults alike will be amazed at the daring divers at Chico’s Paradise.

On our first trip to Chico’s Paradise we were traveling with my mom and grandparents. My mom wanted to try ziplining but my grandparents and the kids (2-years-old and an infant at the time) obviously did not. Chico’s had the perfect compromise for us all with plenty for the non-adventurous (and my husband who – wonderful that he is – agreed to stay with the kids) to do while my mom and I ziplined. While we got “suited-up” for our trek, the rest were seated at a table in the open-air restaurant overlooking the river and waterfall below.  There are divers that make fingernail-biting jumps off the rocks into the water far below.  Be sure and bring some tip money; U.S. dollars work just fine. There are a few local craftsman selling their wares.  The kids bought bracelets with their names woven in them and thought it was fun to watch them being made. Add a couple of ride-on machines (which can be worth the quarters if the kids are getting restless towards the end) and parrots and the time was well-filled.

Puerto Vallarta Activities - Chico's Paradise Dining

A great family dining location.

The zipline was fantastic.  It runs across the river and through the mountains.  It is quite a hike to get to the lines, but a reasonably fit person should be fine.  There are shaded resting areas with water available along the way.  The lines themselves are exciting rides with breath-taking views.

Fellow Hilton Mom Voyage contributor Marti recently stayed with her family at the all-inclusive Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort.  Be sure to check out her reviews of this fantastic Hilton property and other Puerto Vallarta activities!

The post Chico’s Paradise – One Of My Favorite Puerto Vallarta Activities appeared first on Hilton Mom Voyage.


Things To Do in Houston with Kids – A Native’s Perspective

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My nephew shared a new piece of trivia with me this weekend. Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States. I had no idea that I was driving through a city with such a distinction several times a year. I rarely take time to stop and see what Houston has to offer, though. It was time to change that.

We were visiting my in-laws in Southeast Texas when we decided we should all (meaning my family, mother- and father-in-law, sister-in-law and her two kids) spend a couple of days in Houston before we headed home. We chose Hilton Houston Post Oak for our base of operations. It’s less than two blocks from the Galleria – a winner with the shoppers in the group – and close to several other things to do in Houston with kids.

The Children’s Museum of Houston

Our first stop was the Children’s Museum of Houston. There are different rooms and activities that will appeal to everyone from the baby/toddler in the group to the teenager…possibly even older. Even my husband enjoyed the paper airplane making/launching activity. Not to be missed is the Tower of Power, a three-story tower of giant “pringle”-shaped discs for the kids climbing enjoyment. There are several rotating exhibits as well. While we were there, we enjoyed a display about celebrations around the world including Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, and the Chinese New Year, among others. My four-year-old spent the most time in the room giving a glimpse of the Gullah culture. (You really never know about kids!) I think we would have enjoyed the museum even more had it not been so crowded. But that’s the chance you take getting out during the holidays in the fourth largest city in the U.S.

The Galleria

We went to the Galleria that afternoon and again the next day. We had an early dinner at the Rainforest Café where we watched elephants trumpet, tigers growl, and a “rainstorm” every thirty minutes. The boys talked their grandmother (aka Bon Bon) into a trip to Build-A-Bear where we acquired Roy the longhorn and Iggy the black bear. There’s also a Lego Store, ice rink, and a toddler play area, although we didn’t make those stops this time. A few adults and the kids retreated to the nearby AMC theater for movies while my sister-in-law, niece, and I took on the “heavy” shopping.

Amy’s Ice Creams

For an evening treat we traveled just a few miles to Amy’s Ice Creams. Yum! Pick a flavor, choose a crush’n, and enjoy. I opted for the Big Kid S’mores – Belgian chocolate ice cream, Mexican vanilla marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers. Be a glutton and go for the large…it’s that good.

Sky High Sports

My niece and nephew (14 and 10, respectively) added in a trip to Sky High Sports, a business that boasts all-trampoline floors & walls. There is a special “court” for little jumpers, although we were exhausted and opted not to try it. There are also scheduled times for kids with special needs, young kids, and discounted jumping times. The two older kids said it was tons of fun and something they would definitely do again.

Other fun stuff that we didn’t make on this trip is the fabulous Houston Zoo, Space Center Houston, Downtown Aquarium and the Kemah Boardwalk. Consider the Houston CityPass if you’ll be in the area a few days and can take advantage of several of these attractions.  With such a variety of offerings, I think anyone would find plenty of things to do in Houston with kids!

At times we can overlook the gem in our own backyard, which I’ve admittedly done with Houston. Although the crowds and traffic were at a peak during the days we were there (more of an annoyance to this small-town girl than it would be to most, I imagine!), we still enjoyed our time with family and a small piece of what Houston has to offer visitors. I’m sure my family will make our way back to Houston as a stop-off rather than a drive-through.

The post Things To Do in Houston with Kids – A Native’s Perspective appeared first on Hilton Mom Voyage.

Fun Family Activity in Waco, Texas – The Dr Pepper Museum

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My family has been passing through the doors of the Dr Pepper Museum for years, but until recently we had never actually toured it. That may sound strange until you realize that the old-fashioned soda fountain, located just inside the museum but before the ticket counter, was our chosen destination.

I admit (though my comrades around here will most likely make me wear scarlet letters DP) that I do not care for Dr Pepper, so I assumed there wouldn’t be anything in the museum to interest me. I also assumed, since this was a MUSEUM, that dragging my kids through it would be less than thrilling. For the good of Hilton Mom Voyage, though, I needed to venture in and at least get some pictures to write an article on this destination. What I found was a pleasantly surprising and fun family activity in Waco.

The Dr Pepper Museum is a fun family activity in Waco, Texas.

Fun for small kids at the Dr Pepper Museum in Waco.

The Dr Pepper Museum is located in a 100-year-old, historic manufacturing  and bottling building which makes the overall feel of the museum interesting. There are three floors in the museum, each offering its own charming glimpse into soda history. The set up of the exhibits, carefully protected by plexiglass and divided into many rooms by theme, make parents of little ones a little more at ease to let them explore without worry.

There are 1980′s and 1990′s era videos to watch if some in your party want more information on how they clean bottles that are re-used or what soda commercials from different decades looked like. There are games to play, like “guess which flavors are used in Big Red” and even a bead maze for the smaller visitors. When you purchase your tickets to the museum, be certain to pick up a scavenger hunt page that kids can use to find certain exhibits in each room.

Family activity in Waco Texas - Dr Pepper Museum Big Red Challenge

Can you figure out what flavors are used in Big Red?

As I mentioned earlier, the best part of the museum is the old-fashioned soda fountain. It’s worth stopping by the museum just for the Dr Pepper float (or in my case, Root Beer!) over Blue Bell vanilla ice cream.  The only thing that can be said about this is YUM!

Family activity in Waco Texas - Ice cream floats at the Dr Pepper Museum Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain

Enjoying ice cream floats at the Dr Pepper Museum soda fountain.

If you’ll be in Waco for a night or two, the Hilton Waco is a great option for a conveniently located hotel for your family activities. Located just a few blocks off of I-35 near the downtown area and Brazos River, it’s a great base of operations to see what Waco has to offer!

The post Fun Family Activity in Waco, Texas – The Dr Pepper Museum appeared first on Hilton Mom Voyage.

Favorite Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids

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When people think of New Orleans, they may think of Mardi Gras madness before a family vacation comes to mind. On our recent, way-too-quick visit to this city, though, we found that there we were too short on time to even scrape the surface of all this city has to offer families with small children through teenagers. We selected a few of our favorite things to do in New Orleans with kids and decided to plan a return trip soon to check out more.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Kids Play Area at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

The kids play area is a great place for little explorers to become sea creatures as they climb on a giant clam or turtle.

Within a leisurely five-minute stroll from Hilton New Orleans Riverside, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas offers three floors of underwater greatness. From touching sting rays to feeding parakeets to seeing penguins have breakfast, the exhibits are first-rate. With a nod to their Gulf of Mexico home, the Gulf exhibit transports you into the depths near an underwater oil rig to see the fantastic fish that inhabit the area. The Audubon Nature Institute also has a Zoo, Insectarium, and IMAX theatre which area all on our “next-trip” list.

Feeding the Birds at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

What a surprise! One of our favorite activities at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas was feeding birds.

Café du Monde

No trip to New Orleans is complete without a trip to Café du Monde for an order of their scrumptious beignets. These French “donuts” are coated in powdered sugar. Coffee drinkers are required to have theirs with a cup of Chicory or Café Au Lait, but those of us who don’t care for coffee can ask for a Coke for a complete sugar high. Enjoy the open air seating while looking out on the French Quarter. Keep your eyes open for celebrities, too. Shane from The Walking Dead was enjoying his New Orleans morning two tables away from us and graciously greeting fans.

Beignets at Cafe du Monde

There’s nothing like your first bite of beignets at Café du Monde in New Orleans…except for the second and third bites!

French Quarter

Shops, restaurants, and entertainment are the hallmarks of the French Quarter, but just walking down the street and being in this iconic part of New Orleans is an activity. Admittedly, I recommend visiting earlier in the day to avoid some of the nightlife that this area is famous for, but it should definitely be on the to-do list. Local artists display their wares, foliage hangs from the balconies, street performers show their skills, and smells of fresh-made candy and Cajun creations waft out from open doors. Consider a horse and buggy tour of the French Quarter for a unique way to learn and see a little more. When the kids need a grassy area to run off steam, venture into Jackson Square. While the kids play, the adults can people watch which is entertainment by itself.

New Orleans offers many more great things to do with kids which we are hoping to explore on our next trip including a riverboat tour, the Audubon Zoo, IMAX theatre, Insectarium, Louisiana Children’s Museum, plantation homes, and Blain Kern’s Mardi Gras World. The culture, history, and entertainment in the Big Easy make it a great destination for families.

My family was thrilled with our choice of Hilton New Orleans Riverside for our accommodations in the Big Easy due to its great location, hospitable staff, and welcoming, relaxed Executive Lounge.

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Our Favorite Family Hotel in New Orleans: Hilton New Orleans Riverside

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My family had a way-too-brief visit to New Orleans over spring break and decided two things. (1) We needed to head back to the Big Easy soon for a longer visit, and (2) we would definitely return to Hilton New Orleans Riverside, our favorite family hotel in New Orleans. The two stand out features of this hotel were its great location and true southern hospitality.

Hilton New Orleans Riverside Lobby Statue

Hilton New Orleans Riverside lobby statue is quintessential New Orleans.

Location

Every family knows the importance of staying in a hotel near the sites you want to explore. Hilton New Orleans Riverside was within walking distance to everything on our to-do list. We were able to walk to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas in less than five minutes. We could have strolled to the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and Cafe du Monde, but the allure of riding a New Orleans streetcar was too strong. The streetcar station is directly in front of the hotel and offers an all-day pass for $3. Since the hotel is in the heart of so many New Orleans attractions, we found that getting from one place to the next was a walk through the culture of this great city.

Helpful Hilton New Orleans Riverside Employee

Getting on the escalator can be scary, but a gracious Hilton Team Member saves the day!

Hospitality

The staff at Hilton New Orleans Riverside was amazingly friendly and helpful. The valet, check-in, and bell services staff all greeted us with warm, welcoming smiles and helped us get to our rooms quickly, which was so appreciated since we arrived late with little ones. The friendly staff even helped when my younger son decided he was too scared to follow me on the escalator after I had already stepped on. A man from bell services took my son’s hand and helped him down. I was so appreciative as was my little boy!

The staff also provided information on city attractions that would be appropriate for a family with small children and even secured some tickets for us. My older son enjoyed everything so much that he wrote them a “Thanks for the stay” note!

Hilton New Orleans Riverside - Thank You for the Stay

My older son wrote this note that he insisted on delivering to the staff before we left.

And the Executive Lounge has to be mentioned, too!

One of the biggest draws of Hilton New Orleans Riverside for me is the Executive Lounge. It is one of the nicest I’ve visited, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city on one side and the river on the other. The cozy sitting areas – from tables to rocking chairs – are inviting and relaxing. The lounge attendant has a vast array of maps and city information to offer guests as well. If you don’t have status to access the lounge, consider booking a room on the Executive Floor to enjoy this gem.

New Orleans may have a reputation for Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras madness, but it’s actually a fantastic place to take your family, too. Be certain to check out my review of a few family friendly New Orleans activities, and then get your room booked at Hilton New Orleans Riverside. I’m working on my family’s return trip this fall, so maybe we’ll see you there!

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Things to do in Barcelona: Fat Tire Bike Tours

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Barcelona, Spain is a beautiful city rich in architecture, history, and culture. I was somewhat overwhelmed trying to choose which things to do in Barcelona with all the activities and sights before us. I wanted an overview of the top attractions on my first day to catch a glimpse of what the rest of my vacation would hold.

I am not fond of being stuffed on a bus listening to tour guides and walking tours don’t cover very much ground. When you add in a six- and four-year-old on either of these, the day is most likely set for disaster.

So, I searched out a family-friendly Barcelona city tour and found Fat Tire Bike Tours. I corresponded with them via e-mail and found out they have bike trailers and, even better for us, tag-a-long bikes like my family rides at home. I reserved our tour for the first morning after our arrival and knew this would be a hit.

We met up with the tour group at Plaza Sant Jaume, a short cab ride from Hilton Barcelona, where we were introduced to the rest of the group — couples, families, and friends from the U.S., London, and New Zealand among other places.

Our tour guide Margo gave us a few interesting facts about the Plaza and led us a short distance to the bike shop. We had been given a trailer for our younger son and a tag-a-long for our older. The younger was not excited about being pulled in a trailer, and we were able to trade it out for the tag-a-long. The kids were given bike helmets and we were ready to go.

Fat Tire Bike Tours - Barcelona City Overview

A ride around Barcelona with Fat Tire Bike Tours was a great introduction to this beautiful city.

During the first 10 minutes of the tour, I panicked. The narrow streets were crowded and I was trying to ride a bike that was slightly too tall and pull a child on his bike. (I’m the unfortunate adult that’s slightly too tall for a kids bike, but not quite tall enough for an adult bike.)  I felt like a hamster in an obstacle course. However, we emerged from these tight streets within minutes and were on a bike-friendly route in my comfort zone.

And then the fun began! We were able to cover a great distance in a short time which allowed us a quick overview of many of Barcelona’s most popular attractions. We visited Sagrada Familia, Parc de la Ciutadella, Arc del Triomf, and many more top attractions.

The real treasure was the information and stories Margo shared at each stop which gave context to what we were seeing and allowed insight into the people, places, and culture of this beautiful city. We stopped at a restaurant on the beach where we ate as a group from a limited menu for about 10 Euros per person. The last few minutes of the tour were back on the narrow, crowded streets near the bike shop, but I had gained enough confidence by then that I made it through like a pro!

Fountain at Barcelona's Parc de la Ciutadella

The fountain at Parc de la Ciutadella was a stop we might have missed if we hadn’t taken the city tour with Fat Tire Bike Tours.

There were not more than a couple of times that we rode uphill and stops were frequent so people with average physical abilities should be able to manage this without problems. There is a place to carry a water bottle on the back of each bike, so bring one along or purchase one at the bike shop before heading out.

This tour was a highlight of our trip and helped us prioritize the things we most wanted to do with the remainder of our vacation. The same company also offers tours in London, Berlin, and Paris. When I visit those cities, I’ll be certain to take advantage of this somewhat unique and very fun way to tour around.

Does your family enjoy finding unique, adventurous ways to take in vacation destinations?

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Algarve, Portugal Tour: PortiTours Jeep Safari

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On our recent visit to Vilamoura, Portugal, we enjoyed the resort activities, marina, and beach near the fabulous Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa. It would have been a travesty, though, to ignore what lies north of this area: the mountains of the Algarve region.

In an effort to learn more about the people, customs, and culture of this rural area, we booked an all-day Jeep Safari Tour with PortiTours. When I initially booked this, I thought it was a half day tour, so I was nervous when I realized we would be out 6.5 hours. Surely the kids would get bored and it would be a miserable day. I shouldn’t have worried: our driver, Mateus, and the driver of the other jeep, “Chicken Jorge,” kept the kids more than entertained, in addition to the interesting tour they gave.

Scenic Driving…and Stopping

Much of the driving was on rural dirt roads in the mountains with an occasional small village to drive through or look at from across the valley. The landscape was a stark contrast to the lush, tropical coast. The mountains hold red dirt farmland, cork and olive trees, flowing rivers, and humble homes and businesses. The jeeps have an open top to allow passengers to stand up and take pictures or you can always use the old-fashioned method: roll down the window.

One stop was in the midst of numerous cork trees, and Mateus educated us about Portugal’s cork growth, harvesting, and production. The tour was very relaxed, which meant the kids could listen to some of the presentation but also had the freedom to explore their surroundings while the adults learned more about this beautiful area.

Basket Weaving & Water Cane Crafts

We visited the workshop of an 82-year-old man who takes the water cane that grows in the area and crafts it into baskets, bird whistles, and other wares. The bird whistles, at around 3.5 euros each, are the best souvenir you can bring nieces, nephews, and friends! They also sold well-made baskets from small bread serving size to large laundry hampers.

There were also items made from the local cork ranging from key rings to bowls. I have a special appreciation for handmade items that represent the region we visit, and I could have lived it up here if luggage space weren’t a problem!

Algarve Jeep Tours - Basket Stop

On our tour we visited this 82-year-old man who makes baskets from the water cane that grows in the area.

Farming, Beekeeping, and Moonshinin’

Another stop on the tour was to a couple’s small village farm. Here we were told how the bees in the area make the best honey because no pesticides are used on the plants and there are plenty of flowers to keep them busy. I’m fortunate to have a regular supply of fresh-from-the-farm, good tasting honey at home, but the bees of the Algarve may have the advantage. This honey was amazing!

We were allowed time to walk through their farm — a small garden area with a few fruit trees scattered about and chickens running the grounds. My kids enjoyed playing with a hunting dog and seeing a parrot as well.

Chicken Jorge also showed us how the owner of the farmer makes medronho, or “firewater” as it’s locally known. In a small distillery in an open-air building, the Portuguese version of moonshine is made. Samples were offered, but I left it to the other travelers in our group to be adventurous this time. There were also bottles of the local spirits for sale.

Algarve Jeep Tour - Farm Stop

PortiTours All-Day Jeep Safari took us to a farm where we visited with all the locals, including this hunting dog that my son tried to take home!

A Portuguese Lunch with International Guests

Lunch, which was included in the tour price, was served family-style in a typical Portuguese restaurant. It included a vegetable soup, salad, roasted pork, French fries, wine, and water. We sampled some of the piri piri sauce – a Portuguese “Tabasco” of sorts. The food was all very good and ample portions were available. As we ate, we enjoyed visiting with our fellow tour guests from Holland, Ireland, and England. It was truly an international delight!

I highly recommend PortiTours for your southern Portugal visit. They also have other tour options available, including river and sea tours in combination with the Jeep tour on land. The driver will pick your family up at your hotel saving additional taxi fare, and prices for children are only 50% of adult fares or even free on most tours for kids 4 and under. We used the concierge at Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas to book this tour and had it charged to our room, making it a smooth and easy transaction for us.

Is your family ready to discover the Algarve region of Portugal?

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One of the Best Family Hotels in Barcelona – Hilton Barcelona

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My family recently stayed at Hilton Barcelona for three nights as we explored this beautiful city. There are three key factors that make this one of the best family hotels in Barcelona: location, rooms, and people. Add in some great dining options, and this family-friendly Barcelona hotel offered everything we needed.

The Location

Hilton Barcelona, located in the financial district, is a quick 15 minute ride from the airport. After a long flight, we were ready to stretch our legs upon arrival. We took a stroll around the neighborhood and found a large shopping mall, some fun park areas for the boys, and a quaint courtyard where locals gathered in the evening for dinner and visiting while the children played.

We decided to utilize the Barcelona City Tour bus which had a stop less than a block from the hotel. There is also an underground station within minutes of the hotel if you choose to explore the city on your own. We enjoyed being slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the city while still having easy access to all the top attractions.

The Rooms

We stayed in a King Junior Suite which was a great choice for our family. The separated bedroom and living area allowed our kids to have their own sleeping space — a huge plus for getting the kids down and having time to relax on our own. The bathroom was very spacious by European standards. The Executive Lounge, just steps away, allowed easy access to breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres. In fact, everything in the hotel felt easily accessible, from the front desk to Mosaic Restaurant or The Vibe Bar and Terrace.

Best family hotels in Barcelona: Hilton Barcelona, Bedtime with Cuddle Buddies

The housekeeping staff made sure the Cuddle Buddies were easy to find when it was time for the kids to be tucked in.

The People

Everyone knows that the people in a hotel can make a good stay into a great stay, and the staff at Hilton Barcelona certainly did this for us. The front desk and bell services staff were friendly and helpful in getting us checked in, luggage delivered and explaining hotel features and conveniences in the surrounding area.

Margarita, who staffed the Executive Lounge, visited with my husband at length one night about the best way to get around the city and the most important sites for us to visit during our stay. She was clearly excited to share her love of Barcelona with visitors, and helped recommend a plan for us to get the most out of our stay, taking into account our two young children. From her recommendations, we were able to move around the city and see most of the sites on our list with ease and confidence.

Dining Options

We found the restaurants at Hilton Barcelona to be well-suited for families. Mosaic Restaurant offered a nice buffet breakfast which we enjoyed one morning during our stay. After a long day of touring, The Vibe Bar Terrace, an outdoor venue with a relaxed atmosphere, was a welcome dinner option. We had time to unwind and reflect on our day before making the easy trip up the elevator to get the boys to bed.

Hilton Barcelona: The Vibe Bar Terrace

The Vibe Bar Terrace at Hilton Barcelona is a relaxing, outdoor setting to enjoy dinner.

If your family will be visiting Barcelona, you should certainly consider Hilton Barcelona for your stay. With a great location, spacious accommodations, and a friendly and helpful staff, it is a definite winner for your family vacation.

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Favorite Portugal Attractions in Vilamoura and Algarve

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Have you ever happened upon a place that you hadn’t really considered for a vacation, but it quickly became one of your all-time favorites? Portugal, tucked under the geographic wing of Spain, was just such a place for my family. I had actually planned to visit another part of Spain after a few days in Barcelona. Travel being what it is, though, that plan fell through and I began exploring the possibility of continuing my vacation at Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa.

After my stay, Hilton Vilamoura and the Algarve region of Portugal shot up to be amongst the top of my all-time favorite places. And with several great vacations on the list, that’s really saying something for this amazing resort and area. So, it’s time to alert the American public to a vacation treasure that has been unearthed in this family-friendly resort in Portugal. Here is my list of our favorite Portugal attractions in Vilamoura and Algarve.

The Dining Experience

One of my favorite discoveries in Vilamoura was the food. Hilton Vilamoura offers evening transportation to the marina area. Most people turn directly towards the marina once there, but we were greeted by a man holding paper menus and promising a free first drink so we followed him to a particular restaurant. We found that there were many restaurants employing these men to lead visitors to a courtyard area in the opposite direction from the marina.

Although I really meant to try some of the things directly on the water, after a couple of nights of heading in the other direction we were absolutely hooked. The hospitality, free appetizers and drinks that were offered, and exceptional food kept us coming back. Each night we debated on which place was our favorite, but simply could not pick a clear winner.

We had the pleasure of trying A Broa, Ancora Restaurante, and Casa do Pescador among others. On our last night we stayed at the hotel and had the Oriental Buffet at Moscada, one of the restaurants at Hilton Vilamoura. It was a lovely treat, and I would recommend trying it as well.

Vilamoura - Ancora Restaurante

After a full day of touring, a fabulous dinner topped off with scrumptious desserts and even a little TV time was a hit at Ancora Restaurante in Vilamoura.

Praia de Falesia Beach

Praia de Falesia in Vilamoura is a beautiful Atlantic Ocean beach. The pristine sand provided just the medium my boys needed to become artists for a while followed by excavators and eventually they even were still enough to be buried and transformed into mermen. The clear blue water, though cold for our warm-weather skin, was an exquisite backdrop for an afternoon of jumping waves. You will certainly want to have your camera on-hand for all the picturesque family moments.

Sailing, Sailing, Over the Ocean Blue

We had initially wanted to book a sailing trip along the coastline on a masted ship — or pirate’s ship as my boys referred to it — but couldn’t because of scheduling conflicts. We ended up on a yacht that sailed from the Vilamoura Marina to a location with many caves.

We then transferred in groups to a speedboat that took us to the entrance of some of the caves. We even saw a blowhole that had been worn in the top of one of the caves by the waves. The hour of sailing to get to the caves and another hour to return was a little long for my kids, but the scenery was beautiful and they loved riding in the speedboat.

Vilamoura - Speedboat & Caves!

Our favorite part of the cruise along the Portugal coastline was a speedboat ride near the entrance of the caves.

We also enjoyed an All-Day Jeep Safari to Algarve and the spectacular amenities at Hilton Vilamoura, including the Paradise Island Kids Club and 7Seven Spa.

Have you experienced the beauty, activities, and relaxation of Vilamoura in the Algarve region of Portugal? Or have you discovered a new place that unexpectedly became a favorite vacation destination?

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Things to do in Waco, Texas for Families

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Most people who take the family on vacation to Texas probably don’t have Waco as one of their must-do locations. But with its convenient location on I-35 between Dallas and Austin (and San Antonio a little farther south) and its unique attractions, it might be worth checking out for a night or two. So, without further ado, here are my picks for fun things to do in Waco, Texas for families:

1.  Cameron Park Zoo

For a small city, the Cameron Park Zoo is really top notch. It’s great especially for the small kids since there are many great natural-habitat exhibits but you can see all of them in 2 or 3 hours. There are also some play areas spaced out amongst the exhibits. My favorite is the otter slide. The kids can slide through the otter tank where the otters often swim playfully around while the parents can relax in rocking chairs all under a covered building. Restrooms and vending snacks are also available at this particular play area.

2. Dr Pepper Museum

The Dr Pepper museum is interesting, but the real treasure in my opinion is the old-time soda fountain. Old fashioned root beer float with Blue Bell vanilla ice cream? Yes, please! Read here for more on our fun visit to the Dr Pepper Museum in Waco.

3. Mayborn Museum

Another big hit with the smaller visitors, the Mayborn Museum is a fun, interactive children’s science museum. There are sixteen themed rooms where children can dress up, climb around, explore, and test what’s around them. Don’t let them know that some of it may teach them something and you’ll all have a good time. There’s also the Gov. Bill & Vera Daniel Historic Village just outside the museum which will have the kids singing “Home, Home on the Range” in no time.

Things to do in Waco Texas - Mayborn Museum

Kids will love the hands-on activities at the Mayborn Museum on the Baylor campus.

4. Waco Suspension Bridge

Be sure to bring the camera along for this stop. The Waco Suspension Bridge offers some of the most beautiful backdrops for photographs in town. Stroll along the bridge, watch the Brazos River flow underneath, and let the kids climb on the big (like, Texas-big) statues of cattle. While there may not be things to actually see or do, it’s a great place for pictures and running around in general.

5. Baylor Athletics

Admittedly, my college team of choice is about 90 miles south of Waco, but no one can dispute the fact that Baylor Athletics has it going on right now. Check out what games are in town and you might just get to see the next National Championship basketball team or the next Heisman Trophy winner in action.

6. Special Events & Attractions

Check the Chamber of Commerce or Waco Events Calendar for annual events and attractions around town. The Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo each fall offers an inexpensive way to see a great rodeo, amusement rides, and an exhibits hall. Nearby Homestead Heritage has interesting tours and festivals throughout the year. You never know what might be coming through at the same time you are!

For a convenient and scenic hotel option, be sure to check out Hilton Waco located just across the street from the Waco Suspension Bridge.  Stop by Brazos Grille, the restaurant inside Hilton Waco, when you’re ready for some delicious food.  You might just find that Waco is more of a destination than you ever imagined!

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Hilton Houston Post Oak for the Holidays

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Over the holidays my family along with my in-laws decided to take a last-minute trip to Houston for two nights. Thanks to a fabulous promotion Hilton was running, we were able to snag an unbelievable rate at Hilton Houston Post Oak in the Galleria area of the city.

For a few dollars more than a standard room we were able to get a king one-bedroom junior suite. I’m as frugal as the next person when it comes to travel, but I also recognize the value of having a little extra space. We had a spacious bedroom with a separate living area. The couch in the living area folded out to a full-size bed for our boys. There was also a kitchenette area with a small refrigerator, microwave, sink, and coffee-maker. The bathroom area was spacious and had a nice lay-out to accommodate the four of us.
Bed Time Hilton Houston Post Oak

We had access to the Executive Lounge because of my diamond status with Hilton HHonors. My in-laws had booked an executive suite so they had access as well. We enjoyed a continental breakfast in the mornings and evening snacks and beverages. It was a fun place to visit with one another as well as other guests. Jonathan, the lounge attendant, even took time from his busy duties (replenishing food, getting drinks, cleaning up, and taking care of lounge guests as needed) to swap a story or two with us.

Hilton Houston Post Oak Lounge

The location of the hotel was nice as well. We were less than two blocks from the Galleria. There were several places to eat and plenty of holiday shopping choices in the area. The parking garage was easily accessible. We didn’t use the valet service on this trip (my husband valets for us!) but the valets were very friendly when we were being dropped off and picked up.

I wouldn’t hesitate to stay at Hilton Houston Post Oak again. I found it to be a nice hotel in a nice location with friendly employees throughout.

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7 Seven Spa at Hilton Vilamoura

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The 7 Seven Spa, located at Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, is a must-do while visiting this resort. And men, don’t think it’s just for the ladies! My husband and I enjoyed a trip to the spa each day of our vacation.

The Pool Area

The common areas of the spa feature four separate hydro-massage pools. The first is a cold pool which I could only muster the courage to dip my feet in. The other three pools kept me much longer, enjoying the various jets, sprayers, and even a waterfall feature to relax the body and mind. Windows though out the pool area allowed natural lighting to add to the relaxed feeling.

Individual cabanas lined each side of the pool. After letting tension melt away in the pools, my husband I would retreat to one of the cabanas with a cool cup of cucumber water or flavored tea from the spa and spend time reading or even sneaking in a catnap on the lounge chairs.

Surrounding the pools and cabanas is an outdoor Zen garden. Tables and chairs under pergolas covered with fragrant jasmine are an inviting place to dry off a bit after the pools. Lounge chairs are also located outside if you wish to soak up some sun during your spa visit.

There is a time set aside each morning that kids can utilize the public areas in the spa with an adult. While spa behavior would still be in order, it is a great opportunity for kids to relax with mom or dad and get a glimpse of this part of the resort.

Vilamoura - 7 Seven Spa Cabanas

The cabanas in the 7 Seven Spa pool area are the perfect place to enjoy your newfound relaxed state of mind.

The Shower Experience, Sauna, and Turkish Bath

Just down the hall from the pools is another relaxation area. Showers are available here for rinsing off before or after you enjoy the pools. There is also a Shower Experience which allows you to make a selection for which aromas and sounds will accompany you as you walk through the individual shower areas. There is a sauna if you prefer steam, but my husband and I were drawn to the Turkish Bath. Before entering you can select a scent such as menthol or eucalyptus. The humidity and scent then serve to purify the body and mind.

There is a fee for using the public areas in the spa, although if you are a Hilton HHonors Diamond member or have a spa service booked this fee is waived.

Vilamoura - 7 Seven Spa Sauna Area

A sauna, Turkish Bath, and Shower Experience are featured in this area of the 7 Seven Spa.

The Treatments

Of course, the spa also has a full menu of spa treatments. A range of services including facials, massages, wraps, manicures and pedicures are available for an indulgent and pampering day. While I was not familiar with some of the treatments offered, the staff at the front desk in the spa went over the different services to help me understand what treatments would bring me the most relaxation and enjoyment.

A trip to Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa would not be complete without a visit to the 7 Seven Spa. After all, shouldn’t a little relaxation be a part of every vacation?

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More Fun Things to do in New Orleans with Kids

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A few months ago my family had a much-too-short stop in New Orleans. In the few hours we visited this city, we knew it was one we would return to soon. My husband agreed a long weekend at Hilton New Orleans Riverside would make a great birthday trip. We called my in-laws to invite them along since they are in southeast Texas and within driving distance (access to a car plus help with the kids!), booked our short flight from Dallas, and were set to re-visit family-friendly New Orleans!

Audubon Nature Institute (Zoo, Aquarium & Insectarium)

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas was one of our favorite things to do in New Orleans from our one-day trip earlier in the year. There we were transported to the Gulf of Mexico, South Pole, a tropical island, and lowlands of Louisiana as we took in the exhibits. The Audubon Zoo and Audubon Butterfly Gardens and Insectarium had a lot to live up to, and they did not disappoint!

From the wilds of Africa and the Jaguar Jungle to the Louisiana Swamp Exhibit, with authentic heat and humidity for much of the year, the zoo kept our family entertained and interested throughout our visit. Make a point to see the white tigers and white alligators, two of the more unusual animals residing at the zoo.

The Audubon Butterfly Gardens and Insectarium also has much to offer if your kids find creepy crawly critters exciting. My kids were able to touch and learn about a giant millipede in a live-interaction display with a staff member. The really shocking moment was when we wandered into the “Bug Buffet” and my husband and kids tried a variety of specially-prepared insect snacks!

Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium in New Orleans

Learning about the creepy crawlies at the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is one of the most fun things to do New Orleans with kids.

Mardi Gras World

Mardi Gras World offers a glimpse of the floats and fun associated with the city’s most famous party. Dress in some Mardi Gras costumes for a picture, watch a short film about the parades, and then take a guided tour of the giant warehouse where much of the magic happens. Did you know each float has its own bathroom aboard or that there are actually numerous parades held over several days in different parts of the city? Learn more fun facts about how New Orleans celebrates as you see where Mardi Gras magic happens the other 364 days of the year.

Louisiana Children’s Museum

Another good rainy day stop, the Louisiana Children’s Museum easily entertained my kids for a couple of hours. From pulleys and trolleys to bubbles and trains, the museum offered fun, educational exhibits. The hands down favorite for my kids: the Winn Dixie grocery store where the kids are the shoppers, checkers, and re-stockers.

New Orleans - Louisiana Children's Museum

The Louisiana Children’s Museum was a fun thing to do in New Orleans on a rainy day.

The Cemeteries

I am a complete chicken when it comes to ghost stories or scary movies, so my visit through one of New Orleans historical cemeteries had to be in the morning hours with all of its glorious sunlight! Photo opportunities abound, and I found it a great time to play with some of the special features on my camera. Read up on some of the history and legends of the cemeteries before your trip or even take a guided tour to get the most out of this unique landmark.

New Orleans Cemetery

Exploring a New Orleans cemetery was a great opportunity to play with my cameras options and features.

The Creole Queen

Step back in time as you travel down the mighty Mississippi on the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. We took the Chalmette Battlefield Cruise and enjoyed the unique vantage point to view the French Quarter and other New Orleans landmarks along with the narrated tour. Just try to keep yourself from singing Johnny Horton’s “Battle of New Orleans” as you stop at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans. A few refreshments from the concession stand for the return trip and our afternoon was a success.

The Garden District & Magazine Street

I had hoped to tour the Garden District with a guide, but waited too late in our trip to try and book it. We still had a nice drive through the area looking at some of the beautiful homes, but I’m sure having someone in the know tell us more about it would have been better. Instead, we drove over to Magazine Street and spent a little time wandering through a few of the unique shops. Antique stores are plentiful along with a selection of artists turning “trash into treasures.” Add in a few kids shops, like ZukaBaby, a natural parenting boutique, and you could spend more time shopping than the rest of your family will allow!

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Best Things to do in Barcelona, Spain with Kids

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Barcelona was my family’s first European vacation destination, and we fell in love with the city. From history to adventure, water to mountains, here are five of the best things to do in Barcelona, Spain with kids:

Sagrada Família

You simply cannot trek to Barcelona and not see the distinctive works of architect Antoni Gaudí. The most famous of these, and a symbol of the city, is the not-yet-complete Sagrada Família. Construction on this basilica began in 1882 and is scheduled for completion in 2026, 100 years after Gaudí’s death.

Pictures and words cannot adequately describe this larger than life work of art. While the beauty and architecture will hold the attention of even small visitors, the real highlight for my oldest son was the elevator ride to the top of the highest tower. Note that visitors under the age of six are not permitted in the towers, but a small park near the site was an acceptable substitute for my younger son.

Tip: Purchase your tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines. The concierge was able to purchase our tickets and reserve our elevator time the morning of our visit. What took her less than 10 minutes to do saved us 45 minutes or more of wait time.

Barcelona - Sagrada Familia Amazement

Pictures simply can’t do Sagrada Família justice. From amazing architecture to stained-glass beauty, this has to be seen in-person to truly comprehend and appreciate.

L’Aquarium Barcelona (and the Columbus Monument)

The largest aquarium in Europe, L’Aquarium Barcelona is a great family-friendly stop. With aquarium windows that stretch to the floor, the smallest visitors are included in the site-seeing whether walking or riding in a stroller. The Oceanarium gives the feel of walking along the ocean floor while being surrounded by sharks as you traverse a tunnel through the aquarium.

Among the many play areas, the submarine was a favorite and inspired imaginative play for quite a while. Be certain to look for the nearby statue of Christopher Columbus pointing out to sea on your way to or from the Aquarium. It’s a great opportunity to discuss history as you explain why this character from American history has a statue in Spain!

Barcelona - L'Aquarium Barcelona

Checking out the underwater life of the Mediterranean Sea at the L’Aquarium Barcelona.

Tibidabo

This 100 year-old amusement park is one of the oldest in the world and features several rides that date back almost as far. The excitement of Tibidabo begins before you ever reach the park entrance with a ride on the Funicular up the mountain. You can then walk around the Skywalk area and take in amazing city views for free or pay an admission charge to have access to the rides. There were plenty of entertaining rides for my kids and many that would be good for older kids, also.

Barcelona - Tibidabo Amusement Park Airplane

Tibidabo Amusement Park in Barcelona was a fun-filled afternoon with great city views and old-school rides.

Castell de Montjuic

This is another getting-there-is-half-the-fun place! You can trek up the hillside on foot, but we chose to ride the cable cars to the delight of our boys. Castell de Montjuic holds significant history dating back to the 1600’s, some of which you probably wouldn’t want to share with young kids. We left the much of the history lesson behind and enjoyed the scenic views of the city and harbor, climbed on old artillery batteries, and imagined where the dragon might have been kept when the kings and queens of old inhabited this enchanted fortress.

Montjuic Castle - Barcelona

Beautiful views of the city, a cool lesson in history, and a search for the dragons that use to live in Montjuic Castle provided a fun afternoon in Barcelona.

Olympic Park

Barcelona was the host city for the 1992 Summer Olympics. While I’m not a huge sports fan on a daily basis, I do enjoy watching the Olympics and found it interesting to see one of the venues where the world’s greatest athletes competed. We stood in the Olympic stadium where Opening and Closing Ceremonies were held and became Olympians in our own way — posing as runners and gymnasts for cheesy vacation photos.

My husband and I were surprised at the scale of the stadium and grounds. They look much larger on television than they are as you stand there! We walked from the stadium to the Olympic torch and came across a group of teenagers playing soccer in an open area. My youngest son was delighted when the ball went sailing past us and he got to throw it back to them. Those kids may not be Olympians, but they were to him at that moment!

Barcelona - 1992 Olympic Torch

The Olympic Stadium in Barcelona, host of the 1992 summer games, and the Olympic Torch.

Hilton Barcelona was in a great location for touring the city. Within steps of the nearby Barcelona City Tours bus stop, we were easily able to get to all of these family-friendly Barcelona sites plus many more during our stay.

Have you been to Barcelona? What other places and experiences would you recommend for family travelers?

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Best Family Resort in Portugal – Hilton Vilamoura

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When I planned our family vacation, I decided we would spend five nights at Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, a family resort in Portugal. I felt this would give us plenty of time to relax, enjoy the resort, and see a few things in the region. There were so many wonderful things about Hilton Vilamoura and surrounding area, that I found only one real downside to the vacation: leaving.

The Service

Great service at Hilton Hotels & Resorts has become a standard in my travels, but the service at Hilton Vilamoura took it a step above the usual. Check-in took little more than a few minutes, and the front desk staff offered information on locations, hours, and activities of different things around the resort during our stay.

The wait staff at Aquarela and Moscada were attentive and pleasant. In fact, one of the waiters quickly learned what my son liked to drink at the breakfast buffet and brought it to our table before any of us ordered drinks. This kind of personal service, even at a casual breakfast buffet where we didn’t have an assigned waiter, was extended by each of the Hilton team members we encountered.

I had an idea of two excursions that I wanted to book: a Jeep tour of the Algarve region and a cruise along the coastline. The concierge was helpful in narrowing down which tours would be best considering we needed English tours and had small children. Within a few minutes she had the charges on our room account, tickets in our hands, and we were off to the pool to enjoy the rest of our afternoon.

Tip: Make the hotel concierge your BFF.

Hilton Vilamoura Servers Get the Details Right

Pedro, our favorite breakfast server at Moscada, paid attention to the details!

The Grounds

The resort is clearly cared for in meticulous fashion. The architecture of the buildings blended beautifully with the flowering landscape. My youngest son helps at home with our plants and was excited to see many similar plants so far from home. It was clear, though, that the Algarve climate is much more kind to the plants than the Texas sun; we had never seen lantana, plumbego, and Kara Lee look quite as lush as it did strolling around the grounds of Hilton Vilamoura. The visual paradise makes for a relaxing start and end to each day and gives reason to spend time at the resort in between as well.

The Restaurants

We dined at two of the restaurants at Hilton Vilamoura during our stay. We had the buffet breakfast at Moscada each morning. My family loves the custom omelet station featured at most Hilton hotels we’ve visited, and Hilton Vilamoura did not disappoint. We also enjoyed the dinner buffet one night when Asian foods were being offered. The dishes we tried, after the friendly chef told us about them, left us with some new favorites!

We also ate at Aquarelas, a poolside restaurant that is built into cave-like structures reminiscent of the Portuguese coastline. The outdoor dining coupled with the tasty sandwiches and salads made for a relaxing lunch.

Hilton Vilamoura - Chef at Moscada

The chef at Moscada was happy to visit with patrons about the delicious dishes he had created for the evening buffet.

The Pools

There are six pools located on the grounds at Hilton Vilamoura, but we couldn’t seem to leave the main pool located in the center of the resort. With cascading waterfalls, zero-entry, and separate areas for teens, babies, and family swimming, it had everything we needed. Lounge chairs were plentiful, and I never had trouble finding a place to sit while the kids played.

7Seven Spa and Paradise Island Kids Club

While I must mention the 7Seven Spa and Paradise Island Kids Club as a part of my overview of this resort, I couldn’t possibly do justice to these two phenomenal areas of the resort in just a paragraph or two. Please see my full article on 7Seven Spa at Hilton Vilamoura and another one on the Kids Club is coming soon!

Have you found a Hilton Hotels & Resorts property that made departure day the hardest part of your vacation?

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New Orleans Attractions and Restaurants for Families

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“Laissez les bons temps rouler,” as they say in New Orleans which means “Let the good times roll!” With so much to do in this city, we found plenty of New Orleans attractions and fantastic New Orleans restaurants to keep the good times rolling through each day of our long-weekend stay.

French Quarter

Hop on the trolley car stop just outside of Hilton New Orleans Riverside for a short ride to the French Quarter. Take in the sounds of jazz music and see many other talented performers as you wander the streets of this famed area.

Even if you aren’t an architecture aficionado, you will quickly develop an appreciation for the buildings, balconies, and baskets of greenery located throughout. Don’t be intimidated by the lines at Café Du Monde; grab an outdoor table and enjoy the beignets and café au lait in this French Quarter landmark. Just across the street you can select a mule and carriage — or perhaps find the guide that looks most entertaining — for an old-fashioned, lively jaunt in this historical, legendary section of New Orleans.

The National World War II Museum

I was pleasantly surprised at the level of interest my young boys took in the National World War II Museum. Even kids who can’t read all the displays yet will gain insight from the video and digital displays throughout.

The Victory Corps Hands-On stations were staffed on the day we visited the museum. Local teenagers man small tables to let guests touch, smell, and learn about different things used during the war. The highlight of the museum for my kids was the U.S. Freedom Pavilion, the Boeing Center which displays a number of restored WWII airplanes. Check the weather before you go and plan this mostly indoor activity for a rainy day.

New Orleans - WWII Museum Warbirds Exhibit

At the U.S. Freedom Pavilion, the Boeing Center showcased numerous restored aircraft used during the war.

Surrey Bike Ride – New Orleans City Park

My kids are always begging to try surrey bikes, so when I found a deal on Groupon for a two-hour surrey bike rental with Wheel Fun Rentals in City Park, we were on it! Some of the best parts of the park, such as Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Storyland playground, were closed during our off-season visit, but we still enjoyed our ride under the moss-draped oak trees and around the park. We will certainly make this a stop on a future trip when more of the park attractions are open.

St. Joseph Plantation

Five minutes from the more developed Oak Alley Plantation, the St. Joseph Plantation was another Groupon find that proved to be a treasure. This working sugar cane plantation provided a great opportunity to discuss both agriculture and civil war history with our kids. Listen carefully to the guide while touring the plantation owners’ house because of the information provided as well as the unmistakable Louisiana accent you’ll need to decipher! (Says the Texas native with another unmistakable accent!)

A walk through the old slave houses afterwards showed the contrast between the two classes and allowed for an age-appropriate talk about the life of a slave. I appreciated the small group and less commercial feel of St. Joseph, though I would not hesitate to suggest a visit to both Oak Alley and St. Joseph plantations if time permits.

Vacherie, Louisiana - St. Joseph Plantation

A visit to St. Joseph Plantation near New Orleans is an opportunity to explore agriculture as well as history.

New Orleans Restaurants

I’m fairly certain you could walk into just about any of the many New Orleans restaurants and be greeted with some mouth-watering culinary delights. In a city with outstanding restaurants, a mediocre offering just won’t survive. Here are a few that we found well worth the calories.

  • Drago’s: Sadly, I’m not a seafood fan, but my husband raved about the charbroiled oysters at Drago’s the entire trip. As one of the restaurants at Hilton New Orleans Riverside, the location was perfect for us, too!
  • Katie’s: Say yes to the Cheese Fries with debris gravy and, per my husband, have the oysters here, too. Chat with the friendly waitstaff, the owner, and even fellow diners in this local hot spot.
  • Mulate’s: A quick walk from Hilton New Orleans Riverside, Mulate’s entertains guests with a live Zydeco band and plenty of room to show off your Cajun dance skills. Four desserts, two ice teas, and one CD of the band later, and we were more than glad we stopped in.
  • Joey K’s: When the shopping on Magazine Street has left you famished, head to Joey K’s for Eggplant Napoleon, an unusual dish of fried eggplant, fried shrimp, and crayfish cream sauce.

Now is a great time to “Be A Weekender” and head to fabulous, family-friendly New Orleans. Because New Orleans attractions “Let the good times roll”…family-style!

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Why Hilton Vilamoura Is One of the Best Kid Friendly Resorts

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One of the best features of Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa is the Paradise Island Kids Club. We have been on Disney cruises and vacations and to many hotels and resorts, but this kids club was the all-time favorite with my boys. Paradise Island Kids Club is one of the largest in Europe, allowing plenty of space and activities for fun times and making Hilton Vilamoura one of the best kid friendly resorts we’ve experienced.

The Play Area

I can’t remember any park or play area that has as much to keep kids busy as Paradise Island Kids Club. The most popular attraction is the dual zip line which my kids raced towards each time we went to the kids club. There’s also a tree house with slide attached, a pirate shipwreck with ropes to climb on, lost treasure boxes to explore, and a boat which will “leak” water as my sons discovered. That doesn’t even cover the “smaller” places to climb, play, and discover. An enclosed kids pool is also located in the Kids Club. Add in grassy areas, sand boxes, and a covered patio with table and chairs for coloring or other arts and crafts, and you can see why this is one of the best kid friendly resorts around.

Best Kid Friendly Resorts - Hilton Vilamoura Zip Line

The zip line at Paradise Island Kids Club truly makes Hilton Vilamoura one of the best kid friendly resorts!

The Staff

Like most moms, I am extremely picky about who cares for my kids, and I had no hesitation leaving them at the Kids Club. The staff doesn’t just monitor the kids, they actively engage them in activities and play with the children. One morning my son asked if face painting could be the afternoon activity, and the staff made it work with the schedule. Granted, we were staying before peak season, but it was obvious that the people working there want to ensure that the kids have a great time while in their care. A big shout out to Miriam, David, Ana, Alexandra, and Catarina who ensured that Paradise Island Kids Club was the first thing my kids told people about when they got home!

Best Kid Friendly Resorts - Hilton Vilamoura Paradise Island Kids Club Staff

Miriam, Alexandra, David, Catarina & Ana, staff members at Paradise Island Kids Club, make sure your kids’ vacation is top-notch!

The Details

The Kids Club is open for parents to come and go with their kids at no charge which is a great way to introduce your child to the area and make them feel comfortable while you are with them. You can drop your child off for an hourly or half-day fee. If you are going to be at the resort several days, there’s even a multi-day pass you can purchase. I felt that the fees were very reasonable for the amount of attention, care, and activities available. In fact, I thought it was one of the best deals at the resort…especially since it allowed my husband and I to relax at the 7 Seven Spa together!

If you want to learn more, be certain to “like” Paradise Island Kids Club on Facebook. There are many more pictures of their activities, and the staff is very prompt in answering any inquiries.

Have your kids been to an outstanding Hilton Hotels & Resorts Kids Club? Let us hear about it in the comments below!

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All-Inclusive Resort in Jamaica – Hilton Rose Hall

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There are certain things you can’t miss when vacationing at an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica. Warm sand, ocean waves, blue skies, and tropical breezes are standard. But when you add in the comfortable accommodations, delicious food, exceptional kids club, phenomenal concierge services, a water park, spa treatments, golf course and even more at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa…your all-inclusive Jamaica vacation goes from standard to luxurious at every turn.

The Restaurants

There are three dinner restaurants at Hilton Rose Hall, in addition to the buffet. Three Palms Restaurant is a quick shuttle ride to the golf course. Get a reservation for sunset and request the outdoor patio seating to enjoy a stunning view with your dinner. Luna di Mare transports guests to a cozy Italian villa for a tasty selection representative of Northern Italy. Seaside, as the name suggests, is an open-air restaurant just steps from the Caribbean waves. We found the food quality exceptional and plentiful and the service friendly and efficient. For dinner reservations, e-mail the hotel before your vacation and ask them to make reservations for your first three nights at each of the restaurants. (Only one reservation is allowed at each restaurant at a time.)

Mangoes, located in the pool area, is a nice stop for a quick lunch or afternoon snack. And for any other time you might find yourself hungry, Fresh Restaurant offers buffets during breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snack hours.

The Rooms

We had a room facing the middle of the resort on the seventh floor. Because of the layout of the resort, I think you would have a partial ocean-view from many rooms, particularly if you are on a high floor. If you’re inclined to go to bed early (or have little travelers who do), request a room on the outside of the resort. The nightly entertainment runs until about 10 pm in the outdoor space between the two wings and can be heard in the rooms. We were on the inside and ran a sound machine app on our phones that blocked out the noise which worked fine for our kids. Also, the east tower is closer to the water park area and kids club, so consider requesting a room on that side of the resort if you’ll be utilizing those amenities often.

We were very pleased with the spaciousness of our room, even for the four of us. The bathroom offered ample counter space, and there was a very large closet to accommodate our luggage after we unpacked as well as our hanging clothes. We found everything about the room to be comfortable, and were very pleased with our accommodations for the week we were there.

The Beach

What would a Jamaican vacation be without time to lie on the beach? I enjoyed relaxing and reading while my youngest son played in the sand or waded out in the designated swimming area. Tip: Bring a few sand toys from home, and pass them on to another young family when you leave.

My older son enjoyed going out with my husband on the catamarans and kayaks that are complimentary for hotel guests. If you don’t have sailing experience, one of the beach staff will captain your watercraft for you. Children do have to be six years or older to go out on these water sport adventures.

All inclusive resort in Jamaica - Hilton Rose Hall Catamarans

Catamaran rides are included as part of the fun at this all-inclusive resort in Jamaica.

The Water Park

A nice pool is certainly a consideration when vacationing at an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, but families staying at Hilton Rose Hall have an entire water park to enjoy. My kids had a blast in the lazy river, tube slide, and a series of short slides that went from one small pool to the next until emptying out into the main pool. The zero-entry area is a plus especially for small kids. My oldest son thought swimming up to the pool bar and ordering a Miami Vice (a kid-friendly, colorful drink) was great fun.

There are also several cabanas surrounding the pool area. We were too busy chasing our kids to enjoy the full benefits of a cabana, but I dream of the day we can rent one and relax while the kids swim to their delight!

The Kidz Klub

Of all the kids clubs I have seen, the Kidz Klub at Hilton Rose Hall definitely rates in the top two or three! The clubhouse itself was slightly small, but the beach and sand play area behind it, coupled with a large grassy area for playing games, left little reason to stay inside. The counselors — Judith, Jennifer, Marcia, and Melaine — were exceptional at keeping the kids entertained and having fun. I’m not sure if it was “the Jamaican way” or just their own warm personalities, but I felt like they were friends I could easily invite over by the end of the week, and my kids still wish we could have them for a visit!

I was especially impressed by the activities scheduled each day. The games were fun, and my son came home with several prizes/souvenirs from winning. They also had one or two local vendors come in daily to let the kids do a craft for a nominal fee. Every night there were events such as a movie showing or karaoke.

The most unique and exciting activity, though, was the day they took the kids out in a glass-bottom boat. My kids came back with tales of seeing nurse sharks right where they lived! I was excited that my kids got to go on an excursion all by themselves, and they enjoyed the independence, too.

All inclusive resort in Jamaica - Hilton Rose Hall Kidz Klub Outing

My kids loved getting to go on their own excursion, a glass bottom boat tour, with the Kidz Klub staff at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Jamaica.

The Concierge Team

Kaye and the other concierge staff at Hilton Rose Hall are second-to-none at taking care of their guests. We were greeted warmly each time we contacted them and presented with several activities and options that they happily and efficiently booked for us. They followed up with us several times to make certain we had everything we needed and had enjoyed our stay. If you have any questions or need specialized help, this exceptional concierge team can certainly help you out.

Soothe Spa

My husband and I got to experience the Plantation Tropical Body Scrub in the couples’ treatment room. The body exfoliation left us feeling refreshed while the hydrating body cream and massage left us relaxed and rejuvenated. My only regret: not booking a Jamaican Mango Moisturizer Facial and a Cool Caribbean Body Elixer, too!

Our time at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa was vacation bliss. From fun-filled days on the sand to pampering time for adults, from delicious food to friendly staff, this all-inclusive resort in Jamaica hit the mark every time.

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Swimming with Dolphins at Dolphin Cove Jamaica

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Water excursions with small children can be tricky. My 7 year-old son loves being in the water while my 5 year-old son is more hesitant, and I turn into a nervous, over-protective mom who constantly nags my former-lifeguard husband to stay close to the kids. When the concierge at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa suggested swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Cove Jamaica, all of my fears were eclipsed by the excitement of interacting with these beautiful creatures.

Getting There, Getting Ready

Transportation was arranged for us as part of the excursion for the approximately one-hour drive to Dolphin Cove Negril. On the way we had a chance to see some of Montego Bay and the Jamaican coastline as well as hear some information from our driver and ask questions.

When we arrived at Dolphin Cove there was a quick sign-in at the front desk before we were ushered to the changing rooms. While wearing swimsuits and cover-ups to Dolphin Cove is easiest, do bring a change of clothes for the ride back to avoid getting the bus wet.

Swim with Stingrays & Dolphins

Our first stop was to visit the stingrays. A single stingray is brought out and the trainer shares some information about the species while allowing visitors to touch and take pictures with it. This allowed my younger son to get in waist-deep water in a very controlled environment and meet a new sea animal which developed his confidence for the dolphin swim.

After the stingray meet-up, we went to a covered seating area for our scheduled dolphin swim. Lockers are available in this area for $5 or you can leave your items in cubbies under the benches because no cameras, sunglasses, or other belongings can be brought along during the swim.

We had brought my younger son’s life jacket along and were told it was fine for him to wear it. The rest of us were fitted for life jackets before sitting down for an introduction to the swim. They asked about swimming levels, and when I told them my younger son was more of a floater than a swimmer, they responded in true Jamaican fashion, “No problem, mon!”

The swim itself was great fun! We were in the water approximately 20 minutes with the dolphin. There were eight people in our group, and we divided into two teams of four. The dolphin swam by us several times as we “pet” it and also performed tricks including a dance, singing, and some tail splashes.

My younger son was most excited for the dolphin “kiss” but declared up front that he did not want to do the belly swim. The trainers were great to work with and sent my husband and older son out for the belly swim first, then allowed me to trade off and swim out for my ride. They even offered to let my younger son ride on one of our backs as the dolphin pulled us, but he was satisfied with what he had done already.

Dolphin Cove Jamaica - Swimming with Dolphins

A belly swim with a dolphin at Dolphin Cove Jamaica in Negril was the ultimate excitement for my son!

Pirates & Sharks…Yikes!

My boys and I thought the pinnacle of our trip had occurred at this point, but little did we know that the excursion was about to get even more exciting. We went to the pirate show and shark encounter. The show itself is a light-hearted, slapstick routine.

After the short show, the audience is invited to get in the water with the two trained nurse sharks for an additional fee. My husband lit up like a kid in a candy shop! My older son and husband jumped at the opportunity and were quickly in the water touching and even holding a shark. Much to my surprise, my younger son decided to try it and held the shark on his own, too!

Swimming with Sharks at Dolphin Cove Jamaica

My 5 year-old had the unique opportunity to hold a shark at Dolphin Cove Jamaica in Negril!

And a Camel, Too

Our last bit of animal excitement was a ride on a camel with the beautiful Caribbean Sea as our backdrop. Because, why wouldn’t you ride a camel in Jamaica?!

To wrap up our day in Dolphin Cove Jamaica we spent some time in the gift shop where you can purchase DVDs and pictures on CD of your dolphin swim (the pictures included here are from that CD), t-shirts, and other souvenir items. The ride back was much more subdued as my troop was worn out from a fun-filled day.

All of us agreed that we would love to swim with dolphins again, especially when my younger son gains more swimming skills. In fact, we would probably enjoy trying the “Ultimate Swim” which is a swim with two dolphins that includes a dorsal pull and a foot push. Whichever dolphin experience you choose, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Dolphin Cove Jamaica!

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Zip Lining in Jamaica with Kids

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Finding an activity for an adventurous group which also contains young children can be a challenge. We considered several activities on our recent return trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica, but struggled to find something the youngest kids in our group – both six years old and under 46 inches tall – could participate in fully. After working with the Tour Desk at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, we booked the Thrill Seekers Pass with Chukka at Good Hope Estate in Montego Bay. It was time to try zip lining in Jamaica and so much more!

Zip Lining in Jamaica

Our morning started with a 30-minute shuttle ride into the beautiful mountains. When we arrived at the Good Hope Estate, we rented lockers to store our things and went to schedule our time on the zip line. We had no trouble getting right in. Within minutes we had received the safety briefing and were in harnesses and helmets for our trip through the trees. We experienced three of the six zip lines on property.

The guides were patient and helpful with my youngest son who was a little apprehensive about trying the first line. After just a moment’s hesitation, though, he was flying through the trees! It was super easy for the kids because all they had to do was hang on. The guides sending gave them a little push and the guides receiving caught them at the end; no breaking or maneuvering to worry about.

Water park and Lunch

After zip lining, we went straight to the Tube & Slide part of our trip. There was a guide available to take any swimsuit cover ups or other things back to the central area until we finished our float down the river. Tip: Wear Crocs or water shoes because closed-toed shoes are required for the zip line, and be prepared to keep them on for the tube ride because it’s a short walk through the jungle to the tubes.

Floating under the arched bamboo trees down the canals that carried sugar cane and rum barrels 200 years ago was breathtaking. A short slide provided a little exhilaration before we splashed into the river below and continued our journey. Our playful guides then paddled along beside us and made sure we didn’t remain dry!

More than just zip lining in Jamaica: Chukka Good Hope Tube & Slide

There’s more to do than zip lining in Jamaica at Chukka at Good Hope Estate. A leisurely float down a river turns to excitement on the Tube, & Slide tour in Jamaica.

Once back at the central area, we bought lunch and ate by the pool. Tip: Try the jerk chicken here. It is amazing and the portions are plentiful!

The kids took another quick dip in the water and then turned their attention to the playground just behind the swimming area while the adults finished up. There is an ice cream and coffee shop as well as a bar just steps from the pool.

Horse and Carriage Ride

We then scheduled our horse and carriage ride which was my younger son’s primary request for this vacation. Imagine his delight when the driver asked him to sit up front and even let him hold the reigns for a moment! The guide on the back of the carriage gave an interesting history of the plantation and facts about some of the fruits and plants of Jamaica.

Bird Aviary

The Bird Aviary is a treasure that should not be missed. Built around the ruins of the plantation’s slave hospital, the aviary boasts more than a dozen species of birds as well as plants and décor that are equally fun to view. Be sure and look near the sign outside the netted area where feeders attract the national bird of Jamaica, the Doctor Bird, a hummingbird found only on this island.

Jamaica: Chukka Good Hope Bird Aviary

The Bird Aviary at Chukka Good Hope is built around the ruins of an old slave hospital, making it all the more interesting to watch the beautiful creatures residing there now.

Challenge Course

Finally, half of our group decided to take on the challenge course. This is a series of obstacles hanging in the trees requiring balance and skill to traverse. My oldest son was excited to try but had trouble mastering much of the course. Once again the friendly and helpful guides were there, encouraging him and helping him finish the course.

Our passes also included a tour of the great house which we really wanted to do, but we were exhausted by this point and were almost out of time as well. We spent a few minutes in the gift shop and purchased a CD of the pictures from our zip lining and tubing experiences. We then boarded our shuttle for the ride back to our resort, happy with an adventurous day that included everyone in our group.

If you are considering a visit to Chukka at Good Hope Estate, there are different passes to accommodate everyone’s adventure level. The Ultimate Thrill Seeker’s Pass included everything we did plus a few more zip lines, a Dune Buggy or ATV adventure, lunch, and more. There is also a Good Hope Estate Pass and Cultural Explorer Pass for those who are looking for calmer adventures.

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