Family Travel Girl

America's Top 10 Beaches - 2008

Dr. Beach has recently published his Best Beaches List for 2008.  Vacationers have been relying on Dr. Beach's (Stephen P. Leatherman) Top Beaches List for years, and once again he delivers!  The Top 10 Beaches List includes sand beaches in the beautiful states of Florida, Hawaii, New York, California, North Carolina and South Carolina.  Here's a rundown of his picks for 2008's Best Beaches.

America's Best Beaches 2008 - By Dr. Beach

1.  Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin/Clearwater, Florida

Photo by MikeReichold via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

 

2.  Hanalei Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Photo by Fortes via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

 

3.  Siesta Beach, Sarasota, Florida

Photo by mysticchildz via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

 

4.  Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

Photo from Hamptons.com via Google Images

 

 

5.  Coronado Beach, San Diego, California

Photo by JJS Photo via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

 

6.  Main Beach, East Hampton, New York

 

Photo by avlxyz via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

 

7.  Hamoa Beach, Maui, Hawaii

 

Photo by davidandnasha via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

 

8.  Cape Hatteras,Outer Banks, North Carolina

 

Photo by Savannah Grandfather via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

 

9.  Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne, Florida

 

Photo www.city-data.com via AOL Image Search

 

 

10.  Beachwalker Park,Kiawah Island, South Carolina

  

Photo by msprague via Flickr (Creative Commons)

 

Technorati Tags: America's Top 10 Beaches,Dr. Beach,Best Beaches,Top Beaches List,2008 Best Beaches

Family Travel Girl's - Cruise Packing List

What To Pack For A Cruise Vacation

Clothing

Pants - 2 pair lightweight

Shorts - 3 pair

Shirts - 5 - long, short-sleeved, or a mixture

Formal Outfits - 2 - long dresses or suits

Shoes - 1 dressy pair for formal night

Shoes - 1 walking pair (well-worn)

Jacket or Sweater - 1 lightweight

Swimsuit - 1

Underwear and Socks - 5 lightweight sets

Lingerie - bras, slips, nylons

Pajamas - 2 pair

Accessories - Tie, Scarf, Belt

Optional: Exercise Clothing + Sneakers

Optional:  Shoes - 1 pair sandals or flip flops

Toiletries

Toothbrush + Toothpaste

Hair - shampoo, conditioner, lotions, clips

Make-up

Sunglasses

Eyewear - glasses, contacts, case, solutions

Sunscreen + Lip Balm

Medicines + Vitamins

Insect Repellent

Orthodonic Retainers

Miscellaneous

Money Belt

Money - Credit Cards, Checks, ATM Card, Cash

Small Daypack - to carry camera, sweater, towel

Camera - Memory Cards or Film

Watch (with an alarm) or a Travel Alarm Clock

Travel Aids - Earplugs, Neck Pillow, Eye Mask

Travel Clothesline (braided rubber type)

Walkie-talkies - stay in touch on board

Laptop - charger, wireless cards

Paperback Books + Magazines

Handheld Games or iPod + Earphones

Swim Goggles

Travel Journal + Pen

Umbrella (small, collapsible) or Rain Poncho

Documents

Passports - carry a photocopy in your suitcase

Airline Tickets - E-Ticket Confirmation

Driver's License

Hotel Confirmations - arrive day before cruise

Trip Itinerary

Cruise Confirmation

Excursion Confirmations

Travel Guidebooks

Maps

Emergency Contacts - phone, address, email

***If you plan to carry on toiletries,remember the Airlines Security 3-1-1 rule:

3 ounce bottles, 1 quart ziploc bag, 1 bag per person

Photo by BMigulski via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Technorati Tags: cruise packing list,what to pack for a cruise,cruise clothes,packing tips,how to pack a suitcase

Chicago Tourist Attractions: Two-Day Suggested Chicago Itinerary

Planning to visit Chicago for a quick weekend getaway? See Chicago's best tourist attractions in two days! Here's a two-day Chicago itinerary for you if you're planning a visit to the Windy City. (Beware -- this itinerary is only for hard-core tourists, though. Please adjust the schedule or Chicago attractions to suit your family!) Enjoy!

Chicago Attractions - Day One

• 9:00 a.m. - Shedd Aquarium -- See the Shedd's Dolphin Show
• 11:30 a.m. - Lunch at the Shedd's Soundings Restaurant (overlooking Lake Michigan)
• 1:00 p.m. - Chicago's Field Museum -- check times of any special exhibits
• 2:30 p.m. - Adler Planetarium
• 5:30 p.m. - Dinner - Consider Buca Di Beppo -- great kids eatery -- or Uno's Pizzeria
• 7 or 8 p.m. - Check out a play at one of the downtown Theatres

Note that the Shedd, the Field Museum, and the Adler Planetarium are located in the same "plaza" -- all walking distance from each other!

Chicago Attractions - Day Two

•   9:00 - Sears Tower - Ride the elevator to the top!
• 10:30 - Stroll Magnificent Mile -- window shop!
• 12:00 - Lunch - rooftop at Chicago Park Hyatt's Nomi Restaurant
•   2:00 - Chicago River Boat Tour - the architectural tour is amazing and educational!
•   5:00 - Visit Navy Pier for dinner, a ride on a ferris wheel, shopping, and possibly an evening cruise on Lake Michigan

If you have an additional day or would like to substitute an activity, consider:

• Hancock Observatory
• Art Institute of Chicago
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Chicago Skyline Lake Michigan Cruise
• Grant Park - see Buckingham Fountain
• Millenium Park - see yourself in Chicago's skyline through the reflection of "The Bean" sculpture
• Second City Improv Troupe Show

Photo by cmefish via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Quebec City Canada - Top 10 Things To Do

Visit Quebec City in 2008 to celebrate its 400th Anniversary!  Quebec City is buzzing with celebration activities!  See Celine Dion August 22nd; Linkin Park July 13; and Cirque du Soleil October 17 - 19.

Quebec City is a great weekend getaway.  Where to stay in Quebec City?  Book a room at the Fairmont's Chateau Frontenac, and you'll be staying in one of the most photographed hotels in the world.  For a unique view of the Frontenac and excellent photo opportunities, ride the funicular down into Old Lower Town.  As you walk along Lower Town's narrow, cobbled streets, glance up and drink in the majestic beauty of this old dame sitting atop the bluff overlooking the St. Lawrence River.  With so much to do in this historic town, we though we'd give you ten of our favorites, so here goes!

Top 10 Things to do in Quebec City

1. Speak French - Bon Jour!
2. Visit Musee de la Civilisation - check out the video presentation about Montreal's history
3. Stroll Old Lower Town - enjoy a multitude of shops, inns, and bistros
4. Eat "Sugar Pie" at Aux Anciens Canadiens - 34 rue St-Louis in Upper Town - a smooth maple syrup concoction placed on a delicious crust
5. Let the kids play at Parc des Champs-de-Bataille while you relax under a shade tree
6. Shop in Upper Town - pick up your Canadian souvenirs
7. Visit Le Chateau Frontenac - stop by and say hello to their friendly mascot in the lobby
8. Go for a swim - if you're lucky enough to be staying at Le Chateau Frontenac, take a dip in their indoor pool
9. Take a scenic cruise along the Saint-Lawrence River
10. Eat crepes at Casse-Crêpe Breton in Upper Town - Choose from chocolate, fruit, or ham and cheese fillings.  This bustling cafe is filled with tourists and locals alike who know a great crepe when they taste one!

Photo by mario groleau via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Best Crepes in Paris!

Kid-style Crepes - ala syrup! 

Which Creperie is the best in all of Paris?  This was my quest for our recent visit to Paris, France.  You see, my son's favorite food (next to macaroni and cheese) is the French crepe!  So, I scoured the Paris guidebooks and Paris dining reviews in search of the Best Crepe in Paris.  Armed with a creperie name and address, my family boarded the Metro near the Louvre and headed to Gare Montparnasse.  When we stepped out of the underground walkway and looked around, my son felt as though he had died and gone to heaven.  Creperies were EVERYWHERE!  They dotted the streets like spots on a leopard!  It was at that moment I was thankful to have done my research, otherwise, how in the world would we chooose?  Walking along rue du Montparnasse, we carefully read each creperie sign we passed in search of "Creperie Josselin."  When we reached 67, rue du Montparnasse, we excitedly entered the small cafe.  Upon discovering that the place was bustling with locals, we knew we had chosen wisely.  The small tables were nearly filled at dinnertime, but a friendly man met us at the door and seated us at a quaint table near the window.  The menu was bursting with crepe choices -- fillings of every kind!  The air was filled with the wonderful smell of crepes (and melting butter).  We couldn't help but to be in awe of the huge blocks of butter that were being used at the crepe prep area.  So, that's why they taste so good!  After devouring our crepes (and ordering seconds), we were satisfied that indeed we had found the Best Crepes in Paris at "Josselin."  (Of course, that's just our humble opinion!)  Bon Jour!

Creperie Josselin - 67, rue du Montparnasse, Paris, France

Checked Baggage Charges from American Airlines

The New Carry On Luggage - A Backpack?  Just when we thought that the airlines couldn't possibly (or wouldn't dare) charge us for more add-ons, here they go.  American Airlines' new first checked bag charge will cost fliers $15 for the first (that's right -- 1st) checked bag.  You know what that means, right?  Overhead bins are going to be overflowing, people will be putting their bags in YOUR overhead space.  Have you ever gotten on a plane that has started boarding from the rear only to find out that the overhead bin above your front-of-the-plane seat is full?!  Unless you're a high mileage frequent flier with priority boarding privileges, you'd better start learning how to pack light.  For some travel tips on how to pack using only one piece of luggage, check out my favorite travel website for tips on how to travel light -- One Bag.  Don't be so stubborn, lighten up.  You'll be glad you did (and your back will thank you, too)!

Photo by ToastyKen via Flicker (Creative Commons)

The 2008 French Open: Tennis and Paris A Match Made in Heaven

Tennis - French Open 2008:  If you're planning to be in Paris between now and June 8th and you're a tennis lover, you may want to try to score tickets to the 2008 French Open.  Most of the big names will be there, including Federer, Nadal, Ferrer, Djokovic, Davydenko, Blake.  Sharapova and the Williams sisters will be there for the women.  You can try to find tickets at the Roland-Garros 2008 French Open Ticketing online page.   Don't worry about the language barrier if you can't read French, just click on the American flag icon, and your information will be instantly displayed in English.  Bon jour!

Photo by Dionetian via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Great Barrier Reef - U.S. and British Scuba Divers Rescued

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Safety:  Scuba divers and snorkelers, listen up!  Don't get lulled into a false sense of security just because you're diving or snorkeling with a chartered group.  Two scuba divers went missing from a scuba excursion in Australia, near The Great Barrier Reef.  You can read a full article about the scuba diver rescue in Australia at this AOL News link.  Apparently, the divers ended up spending 20 hours floating in the ocean, waiting for rescuers.  Luckily, they were rescued, but it's still not a great way to end a vacation!  Please listen to and follow all instructions given by your dive master or snorkel guide.  The ocean holds beautiful sites for tourists like us; just remember to put safety first!

Photo by Tim Sheerman-Chase via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Theme Parks: Hard Rock Park

Theme Parks - Hard Rock Park, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:  Wow, when's the last time you visited a brand spanking new theme park?  Well, here's your chance!  Hard Rock Cafe has spread their interests to include theme parks.  Hard Rock Park is a theme park located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - the land of family beach vacations.  The Hard Rock amusement park held its grand opening weekend June 2 - 3.  This celebration featured rock bands like The Eagles and The Moody Blues.  So, if you're craving for a new theme park family adventure, check out Hard Rock Park in Myrtle Beach, and let us know about your experience!  Rock on!

Photo by scmikeburton via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Amusement & Theme Parks - Disney World Tips

Wondering What You Should Pack for Disney World?  It has occurred to me that with summer vacation season upon us, many of you are probably thinking of taking Walt Disney World Vacations sometime soon.  Having been there numerous times (more than my husband cares to remember!), I feel compelled to pass along some tried and true Disney World tips for summer touring.

After the resort reservations have been made and discount theme park tickets have been purchased, what's next?  Why packing lists, of course!  Since Florida's summers are known to be hot (90+ degree days) and humid, let's talk about how you and your family can dress to stay as comfortable as possible while visiting the land of magic.

Disney World Theme Park Tips

- Your feet!  That's right . . . if you're dogs are barkin' at you, you're not going to be having a good time!  So, please, please, please bring a pair (or two) of your most comfortable shoes for touring Walt Disney World parks.  You'll be walking a lot of miles in those shoes as you hop between Disney World rides and parades all day long.  This is not the time to run out and buy a pair of brand new (stiff) shoes.  Rely on old faithfuls for this trip.  Also, if you don't have some good moisture-wicking socks, now is the time to pick up several pair.  Anything made from CoolMax is a great choice.  My absolute favorite socks are the X-Static travel socks that I bought at www.magellans.com a few months ago (and wore on a two-week trip through Europe).  These socks are an excellent quick-drying choice for sink washing, too.

- Your skin!  To protect your lovely skin from Florida's harsh sun, bring a hat with a nice brim.  Also be sure to pack some good sunscreen.  Apply it early and often!

- Your hair & clothing!  Unless you like walking around in wet clothes after a quick, but heavy thunderstorm or a ride on Splash Mountain, do yourself a favor and pick up a few cheap rain ponchos.  You can find $1 ponchos at lots of stores (Wal-Mart, Target, Walgreens).  Look in their camping department if you're having a tough time locating them.   

Make your Disney trip one of your family's best vacations ever!

Photo by Simon Grossi via Flickr (Creative Commons)