3 Kids and Us

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

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

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

Heat

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

Theme Parks

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

Excitement

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

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

Face to Face With Your Fondest Film Characters – Visit the Disney World Resort

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Disney World has been an attraction that has captured the hearts of many from the young and the old. It’s a destination that is both magical and moving; it makes dreams come true and takes us to a world beyond our wildest dreams. One of the ways that it does this is by introducing us to some of the most loved characters that have captivated us throughout the years. They take what we’ve been entertained by on our screens and bring them to live at this resort. Disney has brought magnificent and revolutionary mass media into our lives, and what better way to enjoy them all the more than by coming face to face with them. Get your park tickets online and view these fantastic figures for yourself. Here are some of the characters you can get a glimpse of on your trip.

Alice in Wonderland

Go down the rabbit hole of excitement and see Alice in Wonderland in person. This charming character that has brought so much joy into our life’s by taking white rabbits, smiling Cheshire cats, and mind-blowing adventures, can be experienced at Disney World. The Mad Tea Party is where you can come in to contact with these charismatic characters, and get some snapshots that you can show off to all your friends and family.

The Little Mermaid

She’ll be seen as anything but little in your eyes when you catch a glimpse of this fascinating character. This classical and beguiling story of a mermaid, who wants to live with those on land, has had us all in awe. Here at the Disney Resort feel as though you’re travelling under the sea and becoming a part of her world. At the seaside grotto you can take a look at this enthralling entertainer.

Toy Story

Everybody’s got a friend in Woody and Buzz lightyear. Toy story was the first computer animated film that transformed animation as we knew it. Both a tear-jerker and a hilarious comedy, the film offered a range of emotion, and has been printed on the minds of all who’ve watched it. The pixar Studios Camera Dept. takes you through the memorable scenes in the film and gives you the opportunity to capture yourself in these scenes so that you can cherish them forever.

Aladdin

Go on a marvellous carpet ride of magical memories in Adventureland. There you can grab a glimpse of the universal couple Aladdin and Princess Jasmine. They’ve took us to a whole new world through their film and now we can be taken beyond that whole new world in an encounter with the riveting pair.

Mickey Mouse

How can I conclude without mentioning the mascot of The Walt Disney Company? This character is one of the reasons why Disney has become such a success. Mickey mouse swept us of our feet and introduced us to the beauty of captivating cartoons. Be entertained by the bunch a Epcot.

Little-Known New York City Attractions You Need to Visit

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

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

BLDG 92

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

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

The Panorama of the City of New York

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

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum

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

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

Snug Harbor Cultural Center

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

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

The Woolworth Building

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

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

Important Things Moms Should Have in Their Car

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As a mom, you are expected to get everything in order. Whether you’re going grocery shopping, taking or picking up your kids from school, going on a road trip with your entire family, you need to be prepared for anything.

If you spend a lot of time driving around every day, your vehicle becomes, by default, your second home. So, it’s always a good idea to bring some essential items that you and your children may need while you’re on the road.

For those moms who want to have their bases covered, our friends from Alpha Car Finance have put together a list of important things that you shouldn’t leave home without.

Water

In case your kids or anyone gets thirsty, it’s handy to keep a couple of bottles in your car. You may find yourself staying in the car or at the park longer than expected. So, even if the water’s not cold, it should be enough to quench your children’s thirst until you get home.

Snacks

It may be the source of those annoying crumbs that you need to clean up later, but it’s either that or not having anything to feed your hungry kids.

First aid kit

For those scrapes and other boo-boos your kids might get along the way, you need to keep an all-purpose first aid kit in your car. Have some bandages, medicine, antiseptic, and some cotton, ready in case of an emergency.

Wet wipes

This is not just essential for kids but also for grown-ups, too. Messy incidents can happen anytime, anywhere. So, be sure to have a supply of wet wipes ready.

Hand sanitiser

Speaking of messy incidents, you can quickly protect yourself and your kids from harmful germs and bacteria. With just a few sprays, you can disinfect your kids’ hands from whatever unsanitary surfaces or things they may have touched.

Umbrella

In case you missed the latest weather report, you can always protect yourself and your kids from getting drenched in a sudden, heavy downpour or take cover from the blazing sun.

A spare phone charger

Nothing sucks more than having your mobile’s battery holding on for dear life just when you need to send an urgent call or text message. So, in case you forget to top up your phone, have an extra charger or a power bank handy in your vehicle.

Flashlight and fresh batteries

This will come in useful when you need to look for something at night or in dimly-lit areas.

Garbage bags

You can put all your rubbish conveniently in one place and easily drop it off at the nearest trash can.

Keep a list

In case you forget to bring your mobile or its battery eventually dies, keep a written list of emergency phone numbers in your glove compartment.

Items for entertainment

If you’re going to be driving for a long time, you need to keep your little rug rats entertained so they won’t get bored. Have some activity or sticker books, small toys, and some crayons stashed away in your car to keep them occupied until you arrive at your destination.

Extra clothes

When you have little kids, expect to have some unintentional spills to happen along the way. So, keep a change of clothes at hand. Put them in a handy tote bag and store them in your trunk.

For pets

In case you also need to bring your furry, four-legged family members, be sure to have some extra items for your pets like a food and water bowl, a leash, pooper scooper, and waste bags.

Are there other essential items you keep in your car? We’d love to know. Please share your thoughts by leaving a comment.

3 Major Benefits of Educational Vacations with Kids

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Planning where to go on a family vacation is always a major undertaking. While you want to go somewhere the kids won’t be bored silly, you also want to take a much-needed break that you so deserve after all the hard work you’ve put in this year. Actually, you can accomplish all that and so much more if you plan an educational vacation with the kids. There are at least three major benefits of educational vacations, but when you stop to think about it, you’ll find many more as well!

1. Real Quality Time Spent Together

One of the great things about educational vacations is that you really need to spend time with the kids. Instead of going to a beach where the kids will play in the sand and wade on the shore while you sip tropical drinks and get that tan you’ve been looking forward to all year, you will have to actually talk to your kids. Don’t think that just because you are visiting Independence Hall, the Statue of Liberty, or the Space Needle in Seattle that your kids will not be entertained.

These historic sites have been thrilling students, not just Norwich University master in history grad students, but kids of all ages, for many years. Even if you follow a tour guide around, you will find that your kids have plenty of questions and will babble your ears off in the process. What better way to spend quality time with your kids than looking at our heritage together and talking about how it impacts our lives today?

2. An Up-Close Look at History

In fact, just imagine that someday your kids might look back on this vacation as the inspiration for earning that advanced degree in history at Norwich University. It is one thing to study history and world events in a textbook, but it is something else altogether when you get an up-close look at the places where history was made. Sometimes it feels like we are letting our own history pass us by in this digital age, but a family vacation to some of the most important historic destinations can ground us for just a few moments in time.

3. Learning to Appreciate the Diversity of Other Cultures

Another way in which an educational vacation can benefit our children is to show them the cultural diversity of the peoples living on this small (and getting smaller!) planet upon which we live. Sometimes it only takes a trip to San Francisco’s Chinatown or a day in Little Havana (Miami) to see that our nation is comprised of people of all cultures and ethnic backgrounds. Instead of learning to fear and hate other people who differ culturally from our way of life, we can learn to appreciate the beauty and diversity each culture adds to this nation.

There are just so many educational places to visit and lessons to be learned that you will probably want to do this very same thing again next year, and the year after that. You can always take a weekend trip to the beach or an extended weekend camping, but how often do you actually get to go on vacation that demands you spend quality time talking together? This is that chance, so use it wisely – a vacation your kids will remember for many, many years to come.

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