Travel Archives - Page 3 of 24

Unexpected Destinations for Family Vacations!

January 27, 2022 by admin

Vacationing with the family is like flying first class vs private jet: no matter what happens, it’s going to be an amazing time. You get to travel to incredible locations with your favorite people and experience new destinations together. It’s choosing the perfect vacation for a family that can be difficult. Driving or flying? Budgeting or splurging? How many days? Once you figure out the logistics, then you can worry about the preferences! Someone is always going to initially complain or be unhappy, but all of that will fade once you arrive. If you need some inspiration, consider these unexpected destinations for your next family vacation!

Branson, Missouri

You may not think of it, but Branson, Missouri has all of the components for the perfect family vacation. You can make everyone happy. We’re talking top-notch sports facilities, gorgeous clear water lakes, exciting dinner theaters, museums, and a modern landing with shopping and restaurants. In case you haven’t heard, Tiger Woods opened his 19-hole course, Payne’s Valley Golf Course, nearby in 2020. It’s everything you’d hope for from the iconic golfer, both challenging and beautiful. Another Branson attraction is actually about 20 minutes south. Table Rock Lake is known for its beautifully clear water and gorgeous shoreline. Inside, outside, rain, or shine, Branson has some sort of unique entertainment. You just have to give it a chance.

Fort Robinson, Nebraska

For the history buff and conservation enthusiast, Fort Robinson, Nebraska is the place for you. As a former military base from the late 1800s, it has a ton of history. It was active during multiple wars, trained K9 units, and served as a POW camp. If you’re not interested in the history, consider the sites. Fort Robinson has beautiful views, hiking trails, equestrian trails, kayaking, and best of all, guided tours through bison country. The cute, “wild” donkeys that approach your vehicles for pets and snacks make this destination a must!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee really is a great place to visit. The mountains are truly stunning and offer the adrenaline seekers the fix they might need. White water rafting, hiking, or a walk across the Sky Bridge will get the heart pumping. If you’re more interested in indoor activities, there are museums and theater shows aplenty…they even have an indoor waterpark. You could spend your morning exploring the aquarium, grab a quick lunch at one of the many local steakhouses, and spend the afternoon ziplining through the Great Smoky Mountains. The options are endless.

If you’re interested in a family vacation that won’t break the bank and will keep everyone happy, search no more. You now have three more destinations to add to the list!

Fun Family Activities To Try In Texas

November 2, 2021 by admin

Throw on your best pair of boots and a cowboy hat, because it’s time to venture to the land of barbecue and country folk. It could be that you’re visiting some relatives down south. Or perhaps your home is undergoing roof repairs after a bad storm and your family just needs out of the house–if you’re seeking a roofing company, Alpha Elite Roofing is a quality roofer Pearland TX, Austin, Webster, and San Antonio, among other cities, has to offer. Maybe you’re just looking to get away for a while. Whatever the reason, you’re sure to have a good time in this southern state. Here are some activities to keep you and your family entertained in Texas.

Stay at a Ranch

Ever wanted to live the country life? Now you can! By staying at a family-owned ranch, you can experience life on the farm, along with tending to and interacting with animals, preparing home-cooked Texan suppers, and even going horseback riding along trails. Each member of your family can grab the reins of their own pony and gallop along like cowboys from the wild west in style. Staying at a ranch is something that everyone should try at least once in their life, as it will provide a much-needed perspective and give people a chance to do something that would otherwise be impossible in the city.

Attend a Rodeo

Grab the bull by the horns and saddle on up to the nearest rodeo show! Rodeos have long been a Texas staple, and it’s clear why. Spectating bull riders as they attempt to stay on the back of a bucking bull is both exhilarating and nail-biting. There are also bucking horses and wrangling events that force the competitors to rely on their skills with a rope. Some of the state’s most popular shows include The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, and the WRCA World Championship Rodeo in Amarillo.

Visit the Alamo

Texas is full of rich American history, and possibly the best example of this is The Alamo. Located in San Antonio, this historic building marked a significant point in Texas history when soldiers fought for independence from Mexico. Not only is it interesting, but you and your family might just learn a thing or two about the history of the state and its fight for independence. Sounds cool, right? Load up the van and go see for yourself!

Closing Thoughts

Whether you reside in Texas or are just taking a trip, the Lone Star State has plenty to offer in terms of entertainment. Not only that, but many activities are enjoyable for the whole family! Aside from the excellent activities listed, you might also take a stroll along the San Antonio River Walk or hike through the Big Bend National Park. With so many sights to see, the wild west is as fun as ever!

4 Of The Best Family Rides At Universal Studios

September 8, 2021 by admin

Planning a family vacation can be difficult if you’ve got a wide range of ages coming along. Your teenager may not want to do the same kinds of activities that your eight-year-old wants to, and vice versa, but a certain vacation destination offers fun for the whole family: Universal Studios, Orlando. Whether your child is learning cursive in the third-grade or enrolled in an online high school trigonometry course, Universal has plenty of different family-friendly attractions that will keep every age satisfied.

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

A great start to your adventure, the Spider-Man ride is one of many motion-based 3D rides throughout the park. Not quite a roller coaster, this immersive ride requires special 3D glasses that lets you feel like you’re actually on the run from some of Spidey’s most infamous villains. It blends motion rails, 3D technology, and interactive environments to create a wholly unique experience.

Men In Black Alien Attack

This rail shooter is a classic throwback that sees its riders blasting aliens with lasers in order to get the high-score. This adds a little friendly competition to the fun as you’re pushed through a dark cityscape of pop-up aliens and flashing lights with plenty of twists and turns along the way.

Jurassic Park River Adventure

Prepare to get wet on this dino-inspired adventure! Take a leisurely float through the Jurassic environment and do some amazing sight-seeing with realistic animatronics and delightful commentary. The ride takes a thrilling turn, however, when carnivorous dinosaurs escape their confines. Be sure to check out your flash-photo after the ride!

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Yer a wizard, Harry. Well, you feel like one, at least, after getting in line for this Harry Potter themed ride. Explore the halls of Hogwarts itself on your way to board this motion-based attraction. Once the ride starts, you’ll fly on your broom alongside Harry and the gang, traveling through the Forbidden Forest, fleeing from dementors, and soaring through the sky with a dragon. This is a must-ride for any Harry Potter fan of any age.

Wrapping Up

We skimped out on the roller coasters for this one, but if your kids are old enough for them then check them out by all means! They have plenty of crazy coasters to choose from. Another option is to pair a parent with a kid if one wants to ride something that the other can’t or doesn’t want to. Overall, Universal Studios is a great family getaway if you’re looking to accommodate all ages and still have a great time.

3 Tips To Stay Safe During A Family Trip

October 6, 2020 by admin

While COVID-19 has made it difficult for many people to travel, the return of family trips is right around the corner. As travel bans are lifted, many people will be more than happy to resume their normal activities and enjoy a fun trip with the family. However, staying safe is more important than ever.

Fortunately, there are various ways to stay safe on a car trip with your family, even during a pandemic. As long as you prepare in advance and follow the safety tips below, you’ll have a fun, safe, and relaxing family vacation. So, let’s take a look at 3 tips to stay safe during a family trip:

Make Extra Preparations For Your Trip

Though many people like to take a vacation without a set itinerary, this can lead to unexpected issues. Making a plan for your trip will help you deal with potential problems in advance. For example, if you map out your route, you can find out if some parts of your planned route are under construction or have heavy traffic. This way, you can develop a revised route to save time and reduce the risk of an accident.

Making preparations is not all about planning your route, though. You’ll also need to make sure that your vehicle is ready for your trip. This means that you’ll need to get your vehicle serviced and get any other work that your vehicle needs. You may even want to buy add-ons to make your vehicle safer. For example, if you want to store your wallet or important documents safely in your truck, you might consider getting an F150 Console Safe.

Finally, you’ll want to book any reservations well in advance. If you’re going to need a hotel, this will be the most important booking you make. Additionally, you’ll want to buy tickets for any activities or events that you want to attend as a family.

Follow COVID-19 Safety Measures

In all likelihood, it will be a while before COVID-19 is completely in our rear-view mirror. So, for the foreseeable future, you’ll need to follow COVID-19 safety measures. This is especially important if you’re taking a family trip.

Here are the most important COVID-19 safety measures that you’ll need to follow:

Wear a mask in public areas
Maintain social distancing (six feet apart)
Wash hands regularly
Avoid large crowds as much as possible
Use hand sanitizer as needed

Choose a Safe Destination

In addition to following the guidelines above, it’s important to choose a family trip destination that won’t put you or your family at risk. It’s also a matter of public safety. Try to pick a destination that will not force you to come into direct contact with a large number of people. For example, a concert may not be a safe choice during a pandemic.

Fortunately, there are plenty of fun family trip destinations that are far removed from crowded areas. For example, taking your family out in nature is a great way to have a fun, relaxing vacation without taking substantial risks with your health. Locales like the Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, and Yellowstone National Park are all great choices for your next family trip!

For more family travel tips, check out the 3 Kids and Us Travel Blog!

8 AMAZING REASONS TO VISIT KUALA LUMPUR

July 8, 2020 by admin

Kuala Lumpur is a tourist destination for many holidaymakers across the world. Malaysia’s capital beams with a myriad attraction site, a multicultural community, and iconic skyscrapers. Cathay Pacific enables travelers to behold the beauty of this sprawling city center.

1. PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS

These two towers are the tallest twin in the world. Built with post-modern architecture style and Islamic designs, the Petronas Twin towers are lined with endless shopping stores, restaurants, and movie theatres. The twin towers receive a plethora of visitors daily. Designed with steel and glass façade, this architectural masterpiece displays Islamic design the predominant religion of Malaysia’s people.

Connecting these twin towers is a sky bridge on the 41^st floor, which is approximately 170 meters off the ground. This provides a scenic view for photography and breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur city.

On this twin structure is the Observation Deck, where one can enjoy a 360-degree view of Kuala Lumpur’s splendor. Set on the 86^th-floor visitors can exhibit the tower’s history and enjoy digital displays of the twin towers.

2. KLCC PARK

At the feet of the Petronas Twin Towers are Kuala Lumpur’s urban park and upmarket shopping mall popular with tourists. This park was designed to showcase a heritage of tropical greenery to Petrona Twin towers. Suria KLCC Park is a combination of man-made designs such as water features, cement, and shrubs. Its primary influence of this park was biodiversity and conservation. At least 1,900 indigenous trees and 66 species of palms were deliberately selected to attract Malaysia’s local birds.

At the middle of this magnificent park is a man-made Lake Symphony. Two musical fountains display more than 140 unique programmed animations. The magic combination of water, color, and sound gives a beautiful sight to behold. Scattered around the park are various ornamental water features like fountains, cascades, and waterfalls. To the west of the park are a children’s playgroup and a public swimming pool.

3. BUTTERFLY PARK

Kuala Lumpur’s butterfly is the most extensive of its kind in the world. Home to over 5,000 butterflies from 120 species, it stretches an area of 7,500 square meters. Butterflies dance nonchalantly on ferns amidst scented, colorful flowers, vines, and exotic plants. Located adjacent to Kuala Lumpur’s Bird Park Lake Gardens, this park houses an exhibition area with information on the butterflies’ species insects such as beetles and other creepy crawlies.

This is a popular spot for families looking to escape the bustling city center. Once you get in the canopy, you will notably find fluttering butterflies of various colors, sizes, and shapes floating on your clothes while others stick on your hat like badges.

4. KUALA LUMPUR BIRD PARK

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is home to approximately 3,000 birds. This includes imported species of birds. This park is rated as the most extensive public aviary in the world occupying over 20 acres of land. The birds roam free, giving you a fantastic interaction with mother-nature. The rich flora and fauna in the park provide a natural habitat to the birds. If you are a bird or photography enthusiast, this is a fun place for you. Other attractions include the Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens, Butterfly Park, Deer Park, and an artificial lake. The park has an incubation center, a bird gallery, flamingo pond, a hornbill park amidst other spectacular bird species.

5. SRI MAHAMARIAMMAN TEMPLE

Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest religious structure having been built in the 19^th century. If you want to learn the diverse culture, religious beliefs, and values of Malaysia, visit this temple. The temple is adorned with a dazzling colorful façade and decorated range of Hindu deities. It is the place of worship for the Tamil community. However, visitors are allowed to explore the wonder of architecture displayed on it,

Around the main prayer hall are four smaller shrines dedicated to two Lords. Murals and frescos on its walls decorate the most spacious prayer hall. The roofs of the three shrines are embellished with ornaments of precious stones and gems.

6. SUNWAY LAGOON THEME PARK

Enjoy the whirl and swirl of the water slides at Sunway lagoon theme park. The park has a variety of dry-land activities and watery rides for kids and adults. There are man-made surf beaches and a wave-pool that will be exciting, especially on a hot day. The park has a total of five different regions-the Scream Park, the Water Park, Amusement Park, Extreme Park, and the Scream Park. Each of these five parks has a wide selection of unique experiences.

7. THE NATIONAL MUSEUM

Explore the culture of Malaysia at the National Museum located near Lake Gardens. This museum is designed in the shape of an ancient house. Its walls decorations are a blend of contemporary and traditional designs.

The display of the history, art, craft, and culture of Malaysia’s history is spread out onto three floors. On the ground floor, there is an impressive collection of ritual weddings, traditional Malaysian lifestyle i.e. farming, fishing, weaving, and pottery. The 2^nd floor is a zoological section with stuffed animals and birds. You can mistake it for a hunting parlour.

Alongside, the animal is a collection of parangs, kris, swords, miniature canons that were weapons used to hunt. As you wind down the hallways, you find a section dedicated to musical instruments. These traditional musical instruments include the drums popularly known as rebana, the Chinese gongs, flutes, lutes, and fiddles. To navigate through these sections, you will get the dedicated services of tour guides who offer free services to the tourists.

8. BATU CAVES

The Batu Caves are the most frequented tourist site in Kuala Lumpur. The 100-year-old temple is made up of three limestone caves. Around and inside these caves are Hindu idols and deities. Its interior foundation is alleged to be approximately 400 million years. It is a landmark religious feature for the Hindu religion in the world.

At the foot of Batu Caves are three cave temples. Cathedral cave is the most popular and the largest of the three. It also houses many dedicated Hindu shrines. The Art Gallery Cave and Museum Cave are found at the foot of this limestone hill. These caves attract thousands of people and devotees during the Thaipusam Festival in Hindu annual Hindu festival.