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Iconic Things to See and Do in Southwestern Ontario

Paula — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 12:21:00 +0000

Not surprisingly, this entire year we have spent more time close to home in Southwestern Ontario. Small adventures in a controlled manner close to home are the name of the game. On a recent day off, my daughter Payton and I drove to Port Stanley after visiting a park in Aylmer. That got us talking about what the iconic tourist attractions are in each city nearby us in Southwestern Ontario. Why Southwestern Ontario? Southwestern Ontario is where I have lived my entire life to date. While I have considered moving to B.C. or the USA, I am so glad we never left. At different times I have called Kitchener, Guelph and London home. Of course, I live in London with my family now and can’t imagine a better city in which to raise a family and grow memories. Pandemic Travels If there’s an upside to the pandemic it might be, first of all, that we have done some crazy amazing baking here and have perfected all the bread making, jam making and even no-churn ice cream making and, second of all, it’s that we have noticed things that have always been here. The beaches in southern Ontario, the Farmer’s Markets, the trails and parks. Ultimately there are so many things to see and do, but for now here are some of the southwestern Ontario attractions you need to see. London Let’s start with London, my home and the largest of all the cities in Southwestern Ontario, by population. There’s a lot to love about the city and it’s a great place to raise a family. Banting House Home of the eternal flame which is to stay lit until a cure for diabetes is found. Birthplace of the discovery of insulin. Banting House is both a museum and the headquarters of the Canadian Diabetes Association. Western University Looking for a gorgeous university with a strong tradition and lovely architecture? That would be Western, with world class medical school, teacher’s college and business school, this has also been the setting of many medical breakthroughs in Southwestern Ontario. Western Fair The epic Western Fall fair here is one of my favourite events to attend and has been for many years. This year, the fair was held virtually. Yearly, as soon as school starts, you can typically explore agricultural pavilions and ride all the thrilling rides possible. Concerts happen too. Thames River There are many trails and parks in my home city, but the river running through the city is quite lovely. Check out Museum London and take a stroll along the banks of the Thames. London is also a great spot to take in live theatre. Can’t wait until that resumes again safely. Guelph The city I grew up in. I have so much love for Guelph. It was a perfect spot to grow up in and yet I just couldn’t wait to leave as a teenager ready for university. I was just ready for something different and some independence. Riverside Park and More Guelph’s Riverside Park flower clock comes to mind. As a child, I visited that park weekly in the summer with my family. It was on the way to my Grandma’s house on Sheridan Street and we had probably about 100 picnics there over the first few decades of my life. Riverside Park is the spot that I would check out first. There’s a gorgeous river running through the park and you can wade in or fish. Also, that carousel and the tiny train through Riverside Park brings back such amazing happy memories for me. I have been on the train recently with my nieces and nephews, but mostly I recall doing this as a child and then returning to go on the train with both of my baby girls. McRae House There aren’t very many museums in Guelph, but this one is worth noting. McRae House is the birthplace of John McCrae, doctor, soldier and author of the famous First World War poem “In Flanders Fields.” The house is a National Historic Site of Canada. The Guelph Dam The Guelph Dam is the setting for so many races and camping trips. Worth visiting if you are a camper, or someone who wants to get on the water while in town. University and Arboretum The University of Guelph and the arboretum are also iconic. Nearby Stone Road Mall is where I spent many of my weekends and my pay cheques in high school. Just saying. Kitchener This is the city where I met my husband and his parents. Then we got married in Waterloo. I did my undergraduate studies at University of Waterloo. My brother did his bachelor’s degree there too. I have a lot of ties to this area. Oktoberfest and Oncle Hans Oktoberfest is an iconic fall celebration that originated in Germany. Due to the high population of Germans that settled in the K-W area, this has always been a big part of the local tradition and culture. Thanksgiving Monday is the Oktoberfest parade and there is always a Miss Oktoberfest pageant. This year, that will obviously look different, but in a typical year this is the festival or cultural event to make note of and attend at least once. Doon Heritage Village The Doon Heritage Village recreates life in rural Waterloo County during the year 1914. It has more than 22 buildings on more than 24 hectares (60 acres). Some buildings are restored, and others are reconstructions based on original buildings. Typically open from May through December. If you’ve ever been to a living history museum then you know they can be extremely interesting and educational. St. Jacobs Mennonites and Markets The Market. Go the market. Period. St. Jacobs is Mennonite country in Southwestern Ontario so be cautious driving and look out for horses and buggies along with their occupants. I have been itching to return for years and once upon a time in university I would visit weekly. There’s also an outlet mall here and some gorgeous scenery along the way to St. Jacobs. When I lived in Waterloo and Kitchener, we took the drive on weekends, because it was the best market around and a lovely scenic drive. Goderich To be honest, I think this one is the city itself. The city of Goderich, known as Canada’s prettiest little town, lives up to its title. Its downtown is unique, clean and full of charming stores and lately also gorgeous murals, which are perfect for Instagram. The waterfront is pretty and there are numerous trails and parks more than worth exploring. Beach Any city or town with a beach is generally worth checking out at least once. The beach here has been a bit off limits this year, but it’s still lovely to see. Not the kind of beach you can spend a weekend at really in my opinion. But it is a worthy attraction in the area. Stratford The theatre of course. Of course, everyone knows how iconic the theatre is in Stratford. It is a jewel in the arts scene in Ontario and the multiple live theatre performances here every year do Canada proud. Stratford is a gorgeous city just to visit and shop in and wander through from time to time. The Alley Cat Café was a highlight for us this year. Downtown The downtown has a walk of fame that commemorates theatrical legends in Stratford. We stumbled upon it this year actually while out exploring. I mean I knew of it just not where it was and we enjoyed following in some of the footsteps and taking photos. St Marys The Quarry St. Mary’s is a tiny hidden spot between London and Stratford. It is a quarry and well known for cement and gravel production. In the summer, swimming at the quarry can be a lot of fun. Afterwards, browse the cute historic downtown area. Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Maybe afterwards you can pop into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Canada actually has a rich baseball history. Bet you didn’t know that? If you are a baseball fan, then you need to visit the Hall of Fame and Museum. Cambridge Grand River The scenic Grand River winds throughout Southwestern Ontario, but one of the nicest sections is here. It’s lovely just to fish in, walk beside or grab a canoe and take a paddle. There’s apparently a tubing company that you should also check out. We are still hoping to get to do this! Stay tuned! African Lion Safari Depending on who you ask, African Lion Safari is either in Hamilton or in Cambridge. Technically it’s Flamborough, so actually it isn’t really in either, but sort of outside of both cities. That makes it one of my picks for iconic southwestern Ontario attractions to visit. Drive through African animal safari and water park. We visited the park probably every year until I was about 14. I have taken my own children there many times. Every time I have visited it has been an adventure. Once I went with my daughter’s school class for their end of year trip. Supervising a group of hyperactive grade fives was a new way to see the park. Township of Puslinch Emerald Lake So, Emerald Lake is a trailer park/ camp site and it is not far from African Lion Safari. Consider wrapping these two things into a weekend trip or a fall getaway. Emerald Lake is so much fun. It’s not fancy by any stretch but there’s a bit of a quarry type of thing set up with inflatable toys you can climb up, slide down and jump off of with friends, cousins and family. My daughter calls this cliff jumping and it is a blast. McClintock’s Ski School I once did a story on this business. That was a lifetime ago but the gist of it was a family opened a water skiing school outside of Cambridge in Puslinch Township. A water skiing school? That’s right. How fun is that? In typical years they offer lessons and camps. In fact, I feel like one year this is going to happen for us. Water ski day camp sounds amazing! Norfolk County Oh I know it’s not a city, but the ports here and the wine region all have a place in my heart. We had an amazing visit to Norfolk County in 2018 and canoeing was also a highlight. You can read more about that here if you want. Forty-one Amazing Things to Do in Norfolk County. Port Rowan Such a pretty spot to visit. It reminds me of a fishing village out east. Port Stanley Main beach, pier and marina Quiet frankly Port Stanley has been a gift to us this year. This August, we returned after visiting for Beach Days with a group of parents I know who used to meet in person at a support group locally in London. When everything was cancelled in person, one of the amazing Moms suggested that we could all meet safely at the beach during the summer on Tuesdays and occasionally Wednesday or Thursday if the weather was rainy. So, I have taken my 16-year-old and she has met up at least 5-6 weeks in a row with a very good friend and a fellow teen with FASD. That has been invaluable and those trips so special to us. Mackie’s All of this, against the backdrop of Lake Erie and some amazing waves for jumping. We have easily maintained social distancing and been safe while occasionally walking to Mackie’s with masks on of course to grab French fries. The farm markets through St. Thomas, are worth checking out and the local ice cream shops are some of my favourites in the area. Southwestern Ontario is my home and I often take it for granted. This summer and fall, we have explored more than usual close to home and we have been reminded that we live in a stunning province with so much to celebrate, just a short drive from many major centres. Explore Southwestern Ontario Safely Explore safely and remember to check out some of our notable landmarks and attractions when you are in the area. There’s a lot to enjoy here and many events typically throughout the year worth celebrating.

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Bring on The Sun, Summer Fun Awaits!

Paula — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 13:03:06 +0000

Summer fun is right around the corner. The sun is out, the temperatures are finally where they should be. It’s time to get out and enjoy the warmer months. I am a July baby. So is my oldest daughter. We seem to come by our love of summer naturally. It’s a happy, calm sort of season that breeds a feeling of contentment. We love to take road trips and hit the beach when the weather turns warm. And we have a pool, so as soon as the pool opens we are in summer fun mode. Pool parties, beaches and family travel are some of my favourite things. But every single year when the pool opens and sun boosts the temperatures outside I throw together an inventory of what we need and what we have for summer healthy living essentials. It’s easier to have fun when you’re prepared. I’ve put together a list of my family’s summer fun essentials for enjoying summer break. My pool list is simple: Towels, Sunscreen, Swim Goggles, reusable filled plastic water bottles, hats and snacks. You can add shade to that one too. If kids are out in the pool then I want to be sure there’s a shaded spot for them to relax on the patio when they get out of the water. Breaks from sun are important too, as much as we love those gorgeous Blue Sky days. Summer Fun on the Road and in the Sun We are in our pool as often as possible. Sometimes all weekend long. But, as a travel writer sometimes called away quickly to go visit a new resort, feature, destination or camp I also need a road and day trip summer fun kit. When it comes to road trips, it pays to be prepared. Trips and excursions are much less fun when you don’t have everything you need. Instead of enjoying your time together, you’re frantically trying to make do with what you have, or racing last minute to the store, instead of relaxing and enjoying yourself. Here’s a list of my essentials that help maximize our fun in the summer, and keep the worries to a minimum. A Big Cooler When you’re at the beach or on the road, you need snacks and drinks. After all, beach snack stations are usually overpriced, and no true road tripper likes to make unnecessary pit stops. That’s why we always bring a big cooler to hold all of our cold drinks and sandwiches. A Big Reusable Bag I also bring along a big bag to hold all of our non-refrigerated snacks like chips, granola bars, trail mix, and the like while we’rea the beach or on a road trip. Pool Toys In addition to hitting the beach, my family enjoys pool parties at our house. Swimming on its own is fun, but when you throw pool toys into the mix, things are even better. I like to keep a variety of pool toys and floats on hand for lounging, or a fun water-based game. Frankly I find water toys and floats keep the kids in the pool swimming longer and that’s a great goal for any age. Swimming is a great healthy activity for families. Swim Goggles Swim goggles are essential for summer fun. Keep the chlorine or bromine, ocean water or lake water out of your eyes. My kids love diving and pool life is more fun when you can open your eyes beneath the water and make funny faces at each other or create some underwater games. We do this a lot. Actually we’ve already been through one pair of swim goggles this season and summer has barely started. Must buy more. When you have a pool you are a magnet for the kid’s friends and that’s awesome. I love that everyone knows they can come over and swim when an adult is present at our house. But somebody ALWAYS forgets goggles. Extras are crucial. Extra Towels Whether you’re at the beach or hosting a pool party, one thing is always the same – at least one person will forget their towel. NEVER fails. Having extra towels on hand is always a good idea. We usually have a basket full of things we keep near our pool for guests and family too. Towels, goggles, nose plugs and snacks are pool party necessities. Emergency Kit When you’re road tripping, it pays to have an emergency kit with you for any eventuality. A good emergency kit will include a multi-tool that includes a seatbelt cutter and glass-breaker, jumper cables, bottled water, and thermal blankets. SUNSCREEN Summer fun isn’t fun when you, or your kids, get a sunburn. Sunburns are painful and also dangerous. They hurt and they drastically increase your risk of developing skin cancer. That’s why I always keep Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids on hand whether we’re road tripping, going to the beach, swimming, heading to camp, gardening, hanging out riding bikes or walking. As a mom, it’s important to me to protect my kids – and their friends if we’re hosting a pool party – from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids is perfect for that because it goes on easily, and it’s safer for their skin. That makes me happy. It uses 25% fewer ingredients, eliminating unnecessary, toxic ingredients like parabens, oxybenzone, and added fragrances and oils. What’s more, both their lotion and spray varieties are tear-free, making them perfect for kids. Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids is mild and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. My kids might be a bit older now but they are still sensitive. They have their own opinions on the types of sunscreens we buy and will tell me if something feels too oily or has a strong scent. In fact, from the time my oldest was small she’d opt for Banana Boat products. She preferred the lightweight feel. Oh and of course when you swim for hours on end often a huge factor is the length of time the sunscreen is water resistant. Simply Protect Kids Lotion has a water resistant formula of up to 80 minutes. PERFECT for days when we are having too much fun perfecting front flips. Check out Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids Lotion and Simply Protect Sport Spray and see for yourself how great they are. They are a key part of my summer fun essentials, and I think they will be for yours, too. This post was sponsored by Banana Boat. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful.

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St. Petersburg Clearwater Delivers Magic

Paula — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 13:05:41 +0000

St. Petersburg Clearwater is one of those places that has something for everyone. Maybe a tourist destination doesn’t want to hear words like dependable or safe. But for me St. Petersburg Clearwater is dependable and safe and a wonderful vacation choice every time. That matters when spending valuable vacation dollars and time. St. Petersburg Clearwater delivers the magic you want, when you need an escape. You know what I mean, right? You head away on a vacation and a piece of you hopes you made the right choice. Prayers go up to the weather gods and goddesses and you dream about the trip for weeks, maybe longer. Then departure day arrives. Sometimes I hold my breath a bit hoping the photos and the reviews are true. Happy to say St. Petersburg Clearwater doesn’t disappoint. I recently took a trip to St. Pete’s with three girlfriends who are also Canadian lifestyle bloggers. Together with Margarita Ibbott, DownshiftingPro, Aeryn Lynne, Geek With Style and Sandi Allen, Canadian Blog House, we flew to Florida and started a 6 days road trip through Jacksonville, St. Petersburg Clearwater and St Augustine. St Petersburg Clearwater was our first stop. After a long day of travel, the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort was a sight for sore eyes. Literally. We were each thrilled to check in. And we started trying to “Just Let Go.” That’s the slogan for TradeWinds Island Grand Resort. About 20 years ago I went to St Petersburg with my Mom for a week. I still recall the beach being beautiful and serene and it is the same today. But much else has changed and grown. In fact it felt like my first time again in many ways. Between staying at the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort, going to the Chihuly Museum, the Dali Museum and Clearwater Marine Aquarium, my trip to St. Petersburg Clearwater was pure magic from start to finish. We hated having to leave. But that said, we had some great times at the other stops on our girl’s getaway. St. Petersburg Clearwater – Family Friendly Fun TradeWinds Island Grand Resort While on this girl’s getaway trip, I stayed at the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort. All I can say is WOW. This place is more than a resort, it’s a 20-acre beachfront playground! It’s THE place to stay when you travel with family, or gal pals, to the area. It was designed specifically with family fun in mind. You can fly with a jetpack. paddleboard, play at their offshore water park, enjoy fresh Florida seafood, and more. There’s also an amazing inflatable waterslide on the beach. Sadly we were there only two nights and one day was super windy so they had to deflate it. (Reasons to return.) Kids even have their own KONK camps complete with crafts and family activities. If your family is more into relaxation, you can enjoy any of the FIVE heated pools, get a massage, or just laze the day away in a beachside hammock! There are cabanas on the beach but you should remember to reserve them when you visit. Fort De Soto Park When you visit you can tour the park and go kayaking at this over 1,100 acre park. Consisting of 5 interconnected islands and featuring two fishing piers, a historic fort, seven miles of paved trails, and the famous North Beach, the park is the perfect place for your family to enjoy the beauty of nature and experience some Florida history to boot! St. Pete Beach One of the best places to enjoy some quality outdoor time in St. Petersburg Clearwater is St. Pete Beach. Voted TripAdvisor’s No. 3 Beach in the U.S. in 2017, the beach includes the longest undeveloped stretch of public beach in the country. You can enjoy the white sand beaches as well as a variety of watersports including parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and more. BEAUTY! Chihuly Collection Get cultured during your vacation with a trip to see the Chihuly Collection. This permanent art installation by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly is filled with color and movement that will capture anyone’s imagination. I was blown away by this exhibit. Quite honestly I had no idea who he was until we visited. Now I am truly a fan and hope to see more of his work throughout my travels. It’s stunning. See for yourself. Also it photographs really well. Morean Arts Center Glass Studio & Hot Shop Explore the world of glass arts at this studio and get behind the scenes looks at how glass artists create their amazing works of art. Do this in conjunction with Chihuly exhibit and museum. It makes sense thematically and it is across the street so totally doable. Parking is easy to find nearby. The Dali Museum While on your trip to St. Petersburg Clearwater, explore the works of famous Spanish surrealist Salvador Dali. Do yourself a favour though and take at least an afternoon, if not a whole day. There’s a lot to see here and to learn. Even the building itself inside and outside is incredible. The Dali museum combines Dali-inspired architecture with a massive permanent collection of Dali’s works. Pay attention to the docent as she or he leads you through on one of the many tours they offer. Loved hearing about his early years and how he evolved as an artist over time. You will get that here. Early works are sometimes impressionistic and they range wildly, but it’s clear he was talented from a young age. Interesting too to hear the story of how this collection came to reside permanently in St. Petersburg. Do you know the story already? Clearwater Marine Aquarium Okay Clearwater Marine Aquarium and animal rehabilitation centre is a place I have been longing to take my kids for years now. For some reason the timing has just never worked out. Some of you already know my kids have some of their own unique challenges in life. When my youngest was small we hunted for books about adversity and disabilities and we found Winter’s Tail: How One Little Dolphin Learned To Swim Again. This story of a dolphin found clinging to life on a beach in St. Petersburg Clearwater who had her tail fall off as a result of getting stuck in a crab trap is very special to us. We still have the book and we’ve read it many times. When the movies came out we were thrilled. The Dolphin Tale DVD is in the van and runs repeatedly when we do long road trips together. This is a story we never tire of hearing. So I was ecstatic to visit, but also a bit heartbroken that my kids weren’t with me. That said, I bought them many souvenirs and will do my best to return. This place is so special. No ordinary aquarium at all. On your trip to St. Petersburg Clearwater, be sure to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Home of the star of “Dolphin Tale” and “Dolphin Tale 2” star, Winter, the aquarium features turtles, otters, dolphins and nurse sharks. They do their part to protect the environment with a marine hospital used to rescue, rehab, and release everything from dolphins to sea turtles, and more. Right now many sea turtles arrive weekly needing help. A new virus related to human HPV called Fibropapilloma is threatening many sea turtles. The goal of the aquarium is to release rehabilitated animals. But there are several who remain because they cannot survive back in the wild. Winter, Hope and Nicholas are three famous dolphin residents. Right now the aquarium is undergoing a major growth and expansion. As a result of the attention from the movies, traffic increased from visitors to 700,000 a year when it was previously about 60,000 a year. Revenue from the movies has meant the facility can expand to meet needs of more stranded and sick dolphins, turtles and potentially even larger creatures like manatees and whales in future. Money from the merchandise goes directly towards helping the animals. St. Petersburg Clearwater – A Family Friendly Must Of all the places I have been in the last year or two, this is the place I would drop everything for, just in order to bring my family back. There’s more to see and do in St. Petersburg Clearwater than I ever remember. With beaches, museums, an amazing resort, famous aquarium and more, St. Petersburg Clearwater is a wonderful place to create memories that will last a lifetime. We were guests of Visit Florida and St. Petersburg Clearwater while visiting recently on our girlfriend’s getaway. We received accommodations, flights, food and admissions to many activities while visiting. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful.

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Hiking and Exploring Bruce County

Paula — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 11:34:44 +0000

Every year, from the time I was a child, I have spent at least a week of my summer somewhere on the Bruce Peninsula. The beaches are family friendly. Trails are varied and beautiful. Don’t forget the lighthouses, marinas, shops, cottages, hotels, museums, and B & Bs too. Bruce County is Vast Here in Bruce County there is no shortage of things to do, restaurants to dine in, parks to explore and enjoy. Despite visiting the Bruce for roughly 40 years, this is the first year I ever understood how incredibly vast the Bruce County area is. Our Mother-Daughter Weekend Trip On a recent weekend, I took my daughter, Payton, up to Bruce County to do some hiking and general exploring together. Of course, beach time is always welcome and the Bruce Peninsula has so many gorgeous beaches. The night we arrived we went straight to our accommodations in Lion’s Head and after checking in we visited the beach to test the waters and take some pictures. This was our first ever visit to Lion’s Head. You can read more about Lion’s Head in this post. The coast was so pretty here that I fell in love with the idea of renting a cottage on the water another summer. A Bed and Breakfast Stay The morning after we checked out of the Bed and Breakfast in Lion’s Head, we took a short drive to the Lindsay Tract and did some hiking before the rain and mosquitos chased us away. Lindsay Tract The Lindsay Tract has numerous different trails and each is a different level of difficulty. We opted for the wetlands trail first and found the cutest little lending library on the route. These trails are also great for cyclists and some trails even noted that horses were allowed. It was Passport Stop Number One on the Explore The Bruce 2017 Adventure Passport. We browsed around for a bit and my daughter pretended to be Shrek Yelling Get Out My Swamp. But first we stopped and stamped the passport at the easily identifiable passport station on the Lindsay Tract wetlands trail lookout. The Lindsay Tract in Bruce County is just off Highway 6. It’s 8,500 acres of wilderness, rock, hardwood and softwood. There’s also the White Bluff Bruce Trail located nearby which is Passport Stop #2 this year. What is the Passport? For your information the Bruce County Passport to Adventure 2017 is a contest and a fun way to see more of Bruce County. The 2017 Explore The Bruce Passport covers several well known area destinations and some hidden treasures too. There are 12 passport stops and 17 destinations throughout Bruce County on the passport to explore. Visit a minimum of 7 out of the 12 stops to be eligible for a prize like a T-Shirt. Finish all the stops for a chance to win one of the incredible grand prizes. Believe me they are worth it. There are restaurant gift certificates and overnight stays in Tobermory, or a cottage rental, and adventure passes to do outdoor activities too. Tobermory After hitting passport stop #1 and #2 and spending time in Lion’s Head exploring, dining and shopping, Payton and I headed all the way into Tobermory because it was raining quite a bit and we did about as much hiking as possible in the rain. In Tobermory we hit the Sweet Shop for a sweet tooth fix. After spying the signs all the way up Highway 6 on the drive in Friday night, we had to get some ice cream there. We shopped around before catching a quick tour out to Flowerpot Island in a glass bottom boat with Bruce Anchor Cruises. That is more than worth checking out. OH, but it is always busy so book your tickets on line if you can. Tobermory is beautiful and it is as far as Highway six will go. The 45th Parallel is the northernmost part of Bruce County. On our afternoon trip we spied many lighthouses and some of the prettiest rock formations you could imagine. This area of Ontario is breathtaking. A multitude of tiny islands exist up here too. From there we made a super quick run to the Harvest Moon organic bakery. Buy a pie and browse their adorable and fun sculpture garden. The bakery is off Highway 6 also, but look closely or you could miss it when you drive or cycle by. After hiking, sightseeing, taking photos and exploring we headed back down Highway 6 towards Kincardine. But first we stopped in Southampton because I always have to. A Stop in Southampton Southampton is where I stayed with my Mom and brother for about 12 summers in a row. We continued that tradition with our kids until just about two years ago. Southampton, Port Elgin and Sauble Beach are all extremely familiar to us. Driving along the Peninsula from Southampton to Port Elgin always makes me happy. I got more steps in walking the boardwalk in Southampton with my daughter. Port Elgin We watched the boats for a bit in Port Elgin, but a rainy night meant that not many people were on the beach. Love Port Elgin every year for their Farmer’s Market and the train that goes around the park near the beach. Don’t forget to mini golf too when you visit. Passport Stop #6 is in Port Elgin. Kincardine After leaving the beach we checked in to one of Kincardine’s newest hotels – The Towne Place Suites by Marriott Kincardine on Millennium Way. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Such a beautiful and clean hotel suite with breakfast included. We know where to stay next time we head to Kincardine. There’s a lot to love about Kincardine. From the harbour to the downtown area, we thoroughly enjoy spending time in Kincardine. This year we went through the lighthouse again and played around at the beach. It was a sunny Sunday morning and I could have stayed there all day. There are a few good restaurants in Kincardine, so stop a bit and have a meal there too. By the way the Walker House is a Passport Stop on the adventure passport. Stop by and stamp your passport too. After leaving Kincardine lighthouse, harbour and downtown area we drove all the way out to Pine River Cheese in Ripley. Not my first ever visit there. One year on the way back from he cottage my younger daughter and I took a wrong turn and wound up by Pine River Cheese. So we went in and toured the museum portion and viewing gallery of Pine River Cheese. Then we bought cheese curds and some jam. Payton and I did the same thing this summer. Traveler Tip bring cash to Pine River Cheese. There’s fresh food outside a food truck that takes cash only. Now this is where it got even more interesting for me. Never ever have I been to Lion’s Head or Tobermory before. In fact I didn’t even really know they were a part of Bruce County. But Kincardine, the beaches and Pine River Cheese in Ripley I knew because I had been there. However, as part of our weekend of fun together we were also supposed to drive to the Point Clark Lighthouse, which is literally where Bruce County begins. So glad we made it that far. It really was worth it. Point Clark is a beautiful little spot and not really that far from home. The Point Clark Lighthouse is rich in history. We paid to do the tour and climbed up all the stairs with our guide. The view from the top was more than worth it. In Point Clark I realized we covered pretty much the entire length of Bruce County driving and exploring in one weekend. Mildmay Towards the end of our afternoon we were getting hungry so we drove over to our final stop in Mildmay. Mildmay is a cute spot that I’ve heard about for years but never stopped in. Not that we spent a lot of time here. But we drove through and paused for a big dinner at Sandy’s Family restaurant. This is real family fare. Other points of interest in Mildmay are: Harley’s Pub and Perk that is Passport Stop #11 and Wendt’s Jewelry and Gifts. Mildmay is picturesque and the drive there on a late Sunday afternoon took us past several Mennonites riding back home on buggies. Bruce County is Worth Exploring Again and Again Bruce County is more than worth the drive. I’ve been visiting every year for decades and I still find something new every single visit. We went from south to north and back down again then we headed west to east and covered more territory than we ever intended. What a busy mother daughter weekend! Here are Five Bruce County Hotels and B and B’s I Recommend If You Visit: I have stayed in most of these spots as recently as this week actually and can definitely say they are worth it. Kincardine: Kincardine Holiday Inn Express Suites (breakfast included, downtown near everything and is affordable) Towne Place by Marriott Suites Kincardine (breakfast included, spacious clean and near everything. Basically beside the Holiday Inn Express. ) Best Western Plus Governor’s Inn (great location also) Lion’s Head 45th Parallel Bed and Breakfast (LOVED) Super friendly, great breakfast, comfortable and affordable) Southampton Quality Inn – Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor – When we were kids this place didn’t even exist yet and we always stayed at cottages renting privately. BUT now that this hotel is there I really love that there are more family options in the area. Recently we were guests of Bruce County while visiting the area and as such we received accommodations and other compensation to share this experience with others. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful. This post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers.

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23 Things to Do in Gulf Shores Alabama

Paula — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 14:58:14 +0000

The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area of Alabama boasts something for every foodie, adventure lover, outdoor enthusiast, or beach lover you know. Basically there are endless fun things to do in Gulf Shores Alabama as I found out recently when I visited this beautiful area of the southern state. Gulf Shores is very family friendly and would be perfect for solo travel, girlfriend’s getaways, family or extended multi-generational travel opportunities. Desirable camp sites are also plentiful in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area. There’s so much activity and Gulf Shores Alabama outdoor fun can’t be beat. Where on Earth is Gulf Shores? Gulf Shores, Alabama is located on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico so that means they get some enviable weather year round. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, or a golfer, you can make use of the weather to enjoy your particular sport or hobby, even in January when the chill sets in elsewhere. And have you seen the beaches? The Gulf Shores area has some of the prettiest beaches and sunsets around. They deserve to boast about their pristine squeaky sand and spectacular skies and they are much less busy than so many other coastal beach areas, so that makes it a naturally peaceful and fun travel destination. Many snowbirds migrate to this area for the winter months and it’s easy to see why. Gulf Shores has 32 miles of pristine waterfront. The sand is like icing sugar and the beachfront area is serene. This stunning beach is the greatest asset of all the Gulf Shores Alabama attractions I could find. It’s number one on the list of things to do in Gulf Shores Alabama. What a fun morning! #albeachbreaktbex #alabamabeachblogger Spent my morning doing the Coastal Segway Adventures guided tour. First time ever on a Segway! 25 miles of trails through Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry trail! We spied alligators, snakes, lizards and a bald eagle too. #instanature #nature #fun #travelling #travelblogger #usa🇺🇸 #southernness A post shared by Paula Schuck (@inkscrblr) on May 8, 2017 at 11:30am PDT Gulf Shores, Alabama Attractions Things to See or Do: Fishing Charter Several of the bloggers in our group were up early and off on a fishing charter for the day with Ocean Ox Charters. With several restaurants that offer catch and cook capabilities you can catch something that is in season and take it right over to the nearby restaurant where they cook it up for you to enjoy. This is quite a big experience for anyone. Paddle boarding Where there is water, there is also stand up paddle boarding of course. This can be a fun way to get some exercise and spot wildlife. We didn’t see anything other than boats the day we went out, but we did get some great exercise. We used Gulf Coast Paddle Company. Find out more about Gulf Coast Paddle Company on Facebook or Twitter. Take a Walk on the Beach. The sand is squeaky and clean and the beach stretches for 32 miles. Much of the coastal area is protected so all you see for miles is beach and shoreline. A few condominiums and beach homes, set back from the beach are also visible, but it’s really quite astonishing how undeveloped the beach is. Gulf Shores is a great spot for a stroll. Visit Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina There are two restaurants that are part of Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina. Enjoy an incredible meal upstairs. This is fine dining. The menu features fresh local food and seafood. We sampled many different dishes. The Oysters were fresh, and the shrimp toast was a bit of a tasty mystery. How did the chef get the shrimp in this appetizer? There were numerous specials making it hard to choose as they all sounded out of this world. Cocktails are quirky and memorable, served in charming cups. The scallops were the biggest I have ever eaten anywhere and the dessert menu was outrageous. Downstairs at Fisher’s there is a restaurant that is more mainstream. Yoga on the Beach Such a good idea after travel and a bit of indulgence. Glow Yoga is the ticket. When I am at a resort or a beach and they offer yoga, well that’s a no brainer. There’s nothing sweeter than practicing yoga on the beach when on vacation. It’s peaceful and really challenging to do the same moves with sand and wind and beach sounds all around you. When I picture my happy place, this is it – yoga on the beach in a place like Orange Beach. Stay at Brett Robinson Vacation rentals. We stayed in Phoenix II – there are multiple Phoenix rental condominiums and prices vary. The condominium we stayed in was massive and clean and really a beautiful location as well. Central to many amenities with a gorgeous view. Ride the lazy river. There is a lazy river at many of his beachfront properties. Very fun and unique. I LOVE lazy rivers. Hop on an inner tube and just chill out in the water. There was also a waterslide and an indoor pool where we stayed. VERY good choice. Brett Robinson has the largest selection of beachfront condominiums, hotels and beach houses on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Dinner or Lunch at The Gulf. Which is also very pet friendly by the way and located on the beach.The Gulf is a quirky, fashionable, waterfront restaurant built out of shipping containers. It is bright and spacious and the menu is fresh and of course there is seafood. Take a sunset cruise with Sail Wild Hearts. This was a really lovely way to spend an evening. Sail Wild Hearts has an open ocean catamaran and it’s big enough for 49 people. The service at Sail Wild Hearts is wonderful and attentive and the crew are very responsible with regards to the area and the marine animals. You will spy dolphins in their natural habitat while having a lovely evening cruise. They occasionally also have a cruise when The Blue Angels pass over head. They also do private cruises and adventure cruises that last longer and involve a stop with activities like snorkelling. The Wharf Visit The Wharf entertainment and shopping district. Take pictures because it is a perfect selfie spot. Have a coffee and a snack, or buy a few cool products to take home. Pop into The Southern Grind while at The Wharf The Southern Grind has the best name of any coffee shop and breakfast spot in all of Alabama. Scrumptious breakfast and great coffee selection with gelato. Cute gifts too. If I could have figured out how to get some of the art home on the plane I would have bought the beach themed cozy cushions and artwork too. Fort Morgan Historic Site Fort Morgan is an Alabama Historic Site built between 1819 and 1833. It played a significant role in the battle of Mobile Bay in 1864. It was also used during the Spanish America War, World War I and World War II. History buffs and those interested in the military will be curious about Fort Morgan and its role in history. For history buffs, this is one of the most important things to do in Gulf Shores Alabama. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo – AKA – the little zoo that could. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is very family friendly and affordable too. Children under 2 are free. During Hurricane Ivan the zookeeper took all the animals to her home to keep them safe. That story was featured on Animal Planet. That’s the kind of zoo this is. There are numerous animal experiences that you can add on to the entry fee. So for instance we added the Kangaroo experience to our entry and were able to hold a joey in a special carrier they had for the baby Kangaroos. The lemur experience is pretty cool too. FYI the lemurs love hats and camera bags. Home to over 500 exotic animals. The Hangout Music Festival This is a three day music festival held in May usually on the public beaches. It is apparently epic! Travelling in May? You might want to make this an event to see when there. Golf There are many places to Tee off in Alabama, including some beautiful Robert Trent Jones designed spots. If golf is your thing, you can find your swing easily here. Waterville USAWaterpark, Waterville is an amusement park featuring water slide and kid’s rides as well as a roller coaster. EAT at any of the amazing restaurants throughout the Gulf Shores area. Kitty’s Kafe makes a great omelette and there are so many great variations. There’s a lovely patio area here too. The Anchor Bar and Grill has a stunning location and view and some great meals too. Ricotta Cake is a must try treat. Want to know where to have brunch in Gulf Shores? Brick and Spoon is the breakfast spot that you have to try. It was my favourite of all the breakfast spots and with good reason. Very creative meals that you will remember. See my post on Gulf Shores Breakfast Restaurants. The Clay Studio at The Coastal Arts Centre of Orange Beach Make your own clay creations and decorate them too. A great addition to the list of Gulf Shores Alabama attractions. Memorable Gulf Shores Alabama Things to Do The food and restaurant scene in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area is spectacular. Fish and seafood doesn’t get fresher than this. Area beaches are amazing and the trails are seemingly endless. We could have stayed so much longer. Gulf Shores is more than you expect and Gulf Shores Alabama attractions will keep you hopping. Want to Stay Where I Did? You can book the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence winning Phoenix West II here. Book a Sail Wild Hearts Cruise too. Also a Certificate of Excellence winner. Orange Beach accommodations in mind? Here you go. Coastal Segway Tours – MUST DO!!! Visit Historic Fort Morgan for the day. Or Choose a Stay Close to Fort Morgan. Rent a bike? Beach Bike Rentals can be booked in advance. I was a guest of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism recently and as such received perks such as accommodations, travel, food and activities while there. This post contains affiliate links as a service to my readers. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful.

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Exceptional Gulf Shores Breakfast Restaurants in Alabama

Paula — Wed, 31 May 2017 11:24:39 +0000

The Gulf Shores breakfast scene has me rethinking my simple breakfast style. With so many scrumptious southern options and restaurants that do breakfast well, it’s hard not to become a breakfast junkie here. What kind of breakfast do you eat? Are you a hearty bacon and eggs kind of person? A French Toast kind of girl, or the coffee and cereal type? I’m a coffee and yogurt person. Getting the kids out the door, and starting work early is a high priority here, so my breakfast style is simple. But that simplicity can get a little boring and I’m the first to admit that. So, having the chance to dine at several amazing restaurants in Gulf Shores, Alabama was a sweet southern treat. About two weeks ago I visited Gulf Shores, Alabama on a media tour with a few other travel bloggers. Let me just say right off the bat that Alabama was welcoming and friendly. Service was wonderful at every stop. There’s something lovely about hearing “Yes, Ma’am,” multiple times a day. And “How are y’all today?” I loved how polite everyone was all the way from Huntsville through to the Gulf Shores border, and right over to the Florabama that straddles the Florida/Alabama state border. Then there was the food. Alabama southern food knocked my socks off. Fresh seafood and fresh fish was available in abundance. I will share some of the best spots and scrumptious meals we had in another post. But Gulf Shores breakfast restaurants merited a post on their own. I had no clue what to expect from the food in Gulf Shores, Alabama. There were no real preconceptions at all. Even that first southern meal at the TBEX conference was eye opening. It was probably the best conference food I have ever eaten. But today I want to share my favourite Gulf Shores breakfast restaurants, so you have an idea of where to dine when you visit the area. Sometimes you start off on media tours and have no idea if the food will be worth writing home about. Well, these Gulf Shores breakfast restaurants are more than worthy. Do me a favour and ditch the diet when you visit. On our first morning in Gulf Shores, we woke up early to go to the Southern Grind Coffee House at the Wharf. The Wharf is a vibrant, picturesque entertainment and shopping area in Orange Beach. Atmosphere here is inspired by the beach. There are dozens of delicious coffee variations and some incredible biscuits. Southern Grind is definitely family friendly and family owned too. There’s a shop inside the coffee house and a wide variety of merchandise for purchase. There’s everything from art for your home, to T-shirts and beach throw pillows. Don’t miss the jewelry on the way out of the coffee shop and breakfast restaurant. My travel companion Margarita bought a pretty bracelet before we left. There’s no excuse for leaving without a souvenir of your visit. Pet friendly watering station right outside. Take a short walk down the boulevard and snap some selfies by the huge ferris wheel. Day two was a morning where we split into two groups, depending on who was doing which activities that day. I opted to do the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and the Orange Beach Cat Boat Tour of Perdido Pass. That meant we started our day at Kitty’s Kafe. I had a Greek omelet which was big and very tasty. But the star of the show was this hash shown above. I highly recommend that dish when you visit this adorable restaurant. The decor inside is comical. There are cat pictures everywhere and photos of dogs that have been rescued. A mural on the one wall is pigs flying. Not sure what that’s about, but it is adorable. Check out the nice patio they have to offer too. This Kitty’s Kafe breakfast was definitely enough to keep us going again through a busy morning sightseeing and taking pictures. We walked a fair bit around the Alabama Gulf Shores Zoo after this meal so I felt a bit better about eating such a big breakfast. On our last day, right before leaving, we hit Brick & Spoon. No Boring Breakfasts Allowed is the slogan and it was 100 % accurate. To start there’s a Bloody Mary menu which was unreal. I had no idea there were that many ways to make a Bloody Mary. We didn’t have any because it was a bit to early in the day for me to drink. BUT, I appreciated that this was a hallmark of Brick & Spoon. Travel + Leisure named Brick & Spoon one of the ten best breakfast spots in the USA. I can see why. Awesome Breakfast Restaurants in Gulf Shores Alabama There are so many things to love and things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The food scene is surprising and inspiring. Orange Beach and Gulf Shores boasts 32 miles of pristine beach coast and there are dozens of activities to fill your days. Don’t skimp on breakfast. Take the time to savour southern comfort food at some of the Gulf Shores breakfast restaurants. I was a guest of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism recently and as such received perks such as accommodations, travel, food and activities while there. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful.

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How to Enjoy Ontario Beaches When You Totally Dropped the Ball

Paula — Mon, 15 Aug 2016 18:27:26 +0000

Disclosure: This post is part of the YummyMummyClub.ca and Ontario’s Southwest Tourism #BeachInOSW sponsored program. I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. This post reflects my personal opinion about the information provided by the sponsors. Ontario’s Southwestern beaches are some of the most beautiful beaches in North America. As a child, we visited the beaches every year. Ontario’s beaches have the most beautiful sunsets, my mom would say, and I played on many of these beaches as a child. At some point as a teen, I began to think she was exaggerating, but now, as an adult I’ve travelled a lot of beaches throughout the continent and I can tell you Ontario’s Southwest beaches are close to home, easy on the budget, and world class. Anyone in Ontario knows, our winters can be truly bone chilling. So when the warm weather hits, we love to flock to parks and beaches. I appreciate that several of our beaches are less than an hour’s drive from our home in London, and many are less than a two hour drive from Toronto. The beaches of southwestern Ontario make summer affordable and memorable. We can easily throw a beach bag in the van and head out spontaneously in the summer. In fact that’s exactly what we did on Victoria Day long weekend. We are committed to seizing every moment of our short summers and shaking them for all they are worth in this area of Canada. I’m especially aware of the fact that summer passes too quickly so it’s important to make the most of our short season. Beaches are a big part of our summer routine, and it’s not just our family that feels that way. In fact, Ontario beaches are so coveted that reservations for Ontario Parks start filling up as early as five months in advance. So what happens if you are a camper, but you let the whole “planning” thing fall through the cracks. Of course, you’re going to have to deal with the wailing and gnashing of teeth of the children and their whining about missing the beach… Or will you? The following list can help save you from cranky, whiny children and a summer devoid of Ontario beaches. How to Enjoy Ontario Beaches When You Totally Dropped the Ball I’ve been there. Things get crazy in the summer. The world zooms by like a speeding train, and before you know it, you’ve lost your booking window. Fear not, overworked parental figure! Below are some great ways to ensure you can still enjoy a getaway complete with Ontario beaches! These alternatives allow you to get to the Ontario beaches you love even if you miss booking well in advance. There are fantastic campgrounds where you can stay nearby the same prized beach camping areas, and every one of these campgrounds have their own private beaches, but even if they don’t, you can get day passes to enjoy access to the nearby provincial park. Easy Alternatives Rock Point Alternative Rock Point is a popular area when the weather gets warm. If you’ve missed the boat, as it were, on that one, consider staying at Knights Beach Resort or Byng Island Conservation Area. Port Burwell Alternative Big Otter Marina & Campground or Sand Hill Park are both excellent alternatives to Port Burwell. Both of them are situated close to the same area, making it easy to enjoy the beaches even if you aren’t staying at the resort proper. Pinery Alternative Great Canadian Hideaway is a perfect substitute if you missed your booking on Pinery. Like the other grounds on this list, it’s nearby and offers easy access to the beach. Rondeau Alternative If Rondeau isn’t an option, you can always head to Clearville Park or C.M. Wilson Conservation Area. Both of these alternatives are beautiful in their own right, offering gorgeous views, beautiful terrain, and, of course, access to Ontario beaches. Turkey Point Alternative If your chances of staying at Turkey Point have taken flight, consider staying at Backus Heritage Conservation Area or Norfolk Conservation Area. Both of these lovely grounds offer the same beautiful terrain as Turkey Point. Ontario Beaches are in Reach Even if You Dropped the Ball Again, no judgement here. I’ve missed my fair share of planning deadlines and the like. Stuff happens, and that’s okay. The choices above will help you salvage summer if you missed your booking window. All of the alternatives above are beautiful, clean, and offer access to gorgeous Ontario beaches. How would you and your family like to have a splashing good time at the beach? Ontario’s Southwest features some of the best beaches in the world and now they want one family to get their beach on in the “Best Beach Adventure” contest. You’ll be able to play all day and night on Lake Huron in this three-day getaway for four, filled with fun-in-the-sun, wakeboarding adventures, and delicious meals. It’s a prize valued at $2,000. Seas the day and enter now. Contest ends September 1st!

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Visiting Florida and Uncovering Something New

Paula — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 13:04:24 +0000

The beauty of visiting Florida is that you can travel there every year and still uncover something new and fresh and inviting on each trip. When I was younger I thought everything in Florida centred around Disney. Last year, I visited Florida 5 times and I can tell you that I was wrong. Florida is something new every time you visit. Last year was a wonderful year for travel here and 2016 is poised to eclipse that. Next week I am heading to one of my favourite states. This time I will be seeing Martin County and Indian River. This month I look forward to visiting Florida and seeing Martin County and Indian River County, two spots I knew very little about until I started researching for this trip. This time around I have a jam packed schedule and I can’t wait for this adventure. Martin County and Indian River are otherwise know as the Treasure Coast. The Treasure Coast is on the Atlantic Coast and includes Vero Beach, Jensen Beach and Hobe Sound as well as some spots like Sebastien, Stuart and Palm City. The Treasure Coast gets its name from historic shipwrecks of 1715. A fleet of ships ran into rough weather and apparently capsized and their treasures sank with them in the 1700s off the Atlantic Coast near this area of Florida. Some estimates indicate that treasure might be worth as much as $500 million USD today. Visiting Florida is always a treat. Canadians hold this travel destination close to their hearts. We are some of Florida’s biggest fans and repeat travellers with good reason. Florida is easy to reach by plane or by car and its climate is worth celebrating. Many Canadians make a second home in various parts of Florida during the winter months. I am not one of those snowbirds but I can certainly see that appeal too. Next week while visiting Florida, I have several new activities planned. I am trying some new things that are sure to be exciting and fun for me. At least one of these activities scares me a bit, and that’s okay. Adventures Await Visiting Florida It’s a good thing to occasionally be scared into doing something outside your comfort zone. Like surfing. For me, that’s a big deal and a total challenge. There’s so much to do in Indian River County and Martin County my head is spinning already! Eight Adventures Waiting In Indian River County and Martin County. Paddle boarding I have been wanting to try this for years now. Shortly after I arrive in Indian River County I am going to learn how to paddle board. WOOT! I suspect it is harder than some people make it look. I should have some fun stories about this soon. Hobe Sound Hobe Sound local beaches are some of the world’s most important nesting sites for loggerhead seat turtles. I will be looking for some loggerheads nesting. But I might have trouble getting pictures because I have read that flash photography is not allowed when turtles are nesting. It interferes with the process. Downtown Stuart This downtown area is beautiful and iconic. It was the first town in Florida to be named Coastal Living’s Happiest Seaside Town in America. It is the #9 Most Beautiful town in America, as declared by both Country Living magazine and House Beautiful. It sounds so lovely I might need to take a lot of pictures and do a bit of shopping. In downtown Stuart you can take a solar powered tram ride. I think this sounds like a great spot to take some photos. Take a River Cruise I hear there are a few options in the area of Indian River County and I hope I have the chance to take a short one. It is on my itinerary. Take a Sea Turtle Nesting Tour Did you know that these are late at night? I didn’t actually realize that until I received my schedule. I will blame that on being Canadian. No sea turtles up here. Treasure Museum Well, you can’t leave the Treasure Coast without seeing the Treasure Museum, right? Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge The first National Wildlife Refuge in the US. That’s right, the first. Amazing history here and so exciting. Surfing Lessons and Surfing Camp for Kids Surfing is on my list. I’m sure I will not be great at this but why not? I have always wanted to try or even just to learn the technique involved, so away we go. Disclosure: As a guest of Visit Florida, I’m sharing the many attributes of travel in the region. I’ve received perks and compensation. This is the first post in a series of posts about the area. My opinion is all my own and it is 100 % truthful. Stay tuned for more adventures throughout the month. Follow along with #LoveFL hashtag.

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The Shores Resort and Spa in Daytona Beach

Paula — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 10:47:23 +0000

What do you envision when you think of Daytona Beach? Racing, motorcycles, parties, food? Pop culture might have shaped this popular tourist destination, but there’s a whole lot more to discover in Daytona Beach than you ever imagined, starting with The Shores Resort and Spa. This is the start of a Daytona Beach series here at Thrifty Momma’s Tips. Daytona Beach is Well Loved by Canada Florida is a popular destination for Canadians and snowbirds wanting to escape the cold for weeks, even months. Although I have been to a few different Florida cities, I recently had the chance to discover Daytona Beach for the first time. This month, I stayed at Daytona Beach luxury resort The Shores Resort and Spa. The fall season is quiet in Daytona Beach making it a great time to visit actually. This hotspot will pick back up closer to racing season in January and February. I had no idea what to expect after the driver/ guide picked me up at the Daytona Beach airport (which is an efficient and small airport that is pretty much hassle free to fly in and out of. These are the kinds of airports I have grown to love. When you can find them, use them.) The road, South Atlantic Avenue, is mostly consumed by hotels, resorts and restaurants. Where is The Shores Resort and Spa Daytona Beach Located? The Shores was about 30 minutes from the Daytona International Airport. It is one of the nicest looking resorts along South Atlantic. The Shores has beachfront access and is accessible from the street as well. The accommodations were clean and lovely and the building was quiet. No noisy partygoers or anything of that kind to disturb you. How Much Does The Shores Resort and Spa Cost? Prices here per night, especially during the off season are very affordable in this boutique hotel. It’s not uncommon to be able to stay at $90 to $120 U.S. a night. That is a great price for this beautiful spot. The lobby and breakfast area was clean and quiet enough that I could sit for a bit and relax as I waited to check in. Service was superb and despite arriving early I was able to check in quickly and relax. After leaving the Sheraton attached to Pearson airport in Toronto at 4:30 a.m. I was ready for some downtime. Inside the Rooms The room was well equipped and clean, with a large TV, a business area I used quite a bit, a spacious bathroom, walkout balcony with blackout blinds. Fresh bottled water was in every room, which is a welcome touch that should almost be the standard for every resort really. There’s a coffee maker in each room but that’s my only real small issue with this spot is the coffee makers are in need of a switch up. The in room coffee was not good, but I appreciated it being there. The ocean view room at The Shores Resort and Spa is magnificent and frankly after staying there I would never choose any other room. The view of the ocean right outside the balcony door transports you to a calmer place quickly. Several people said they had seen dolphins early in the morning. I woke a couple of times and looked, but didn’t spy any. The week I was there the water was high and the waves were really rocking. Surfers were out immediately. And I spied them consistently trying their skill every day. That was admirable, because the waves looked punishing to me. Where the Daytona 500 Was Born The beach is active and you can walk on, or drive on. So you need to remember that if you bring small children it is a beach with cars and you should exercise more caution as a result. That said I rarely saw much traffic up and down the legendary strip of beach where stock cars once raced each other for fun and competition before the Daytona 500 was born. [tweetthis]Daytona Beach is active. You can walk on, or drive on. #travel[/tweetthis] The Pool and Outdoor Amenities The pool was spacious and never jam-packed. There was pool service and there was always an empty lounger to stretch out in. I took advantage of that in the early afternoon that first day, because I really wanted to finish the book I took with me for the plane ride. Other guests were extremely friendly and I met a few couples visiting from various parts of the United States that day. By the way The Shores Resort is on Facebook as well. The palm trees in Daytona Beach are some of the biggest I have ever seen and they remind you this is a vacation destination, setting the right atmosphere for a good stay. Grounds were well kept and colourful. There is a cute tiki bar near the pool and a hot tub as well. There is direct access to the beach from the resort. The Food at The Shores The real story here at The Shores though beyond the incredible views and the beautiful tropical rooms, was the food. I checked in and posted to Instagram while there at The Shores and a good friend who also does social media consulting immediately recognized The Shores and told me the food was some of the best in Daytona Beach. Restaurants I was intrigued and a bit skeptical. The restaurant doesn’t appear overly lavish from the outside. It is actually currently being renovated, but the menu was superb with a wide range of selections from seafood to steak and appetizers to die for. Tips: My advice: don’t eat lunch before you go and make a reservation to be sure you get in. Have dinner, a drink, and the apps too. Work it off later. Trust me, it’s worth it. Plus the sunset the evening we ate there was gorgeous. It rained a short time and then we spied a double rainbow as well from the outdoor patio part of Azure restaurant. Azure Love Azure, is the Shores award-winning restaurant and it is a must visit, even if you aren’t staying at The Shores. Service was great, but the menu was extraordinary. I am a seafood lover who enjoys sampling any and all shellfish when I travel. It is especially sweet for me because my husband has a shellfish allergy so we never cook shellfish at home. But when I travel it is my go to dish. It is the thing I enjoy most. Clams and Calamari I have had shellfish all over the Caribbean and Mexico. Azure has amazing clams and the calamari was the best I have ever eaten. It is lightly breaded with candied walnuts. I had clams casino and calamari appetizers. There was also a warm goat cheese app that was fantastic. The entree I had was a special that evening with clams on pasta and a light creamy sauce that held hints of lemon. It was ridiculously delicious. Azure, The Shores award-winning restaurant, set the bar extremely high for the rest of my trip to Daytona Beach. Before you leave don’t forget to have an Azure-tini. For more information or to book a trip visit The Shores web site. Sweet Treats at Night Another unique feature of The Shores is the Smores Kit you can ask for when you check in. Around the resort there are a few open fire pits for socializing after dinner. On a chilly night, a seat around the fire is heaven. Smores Kits are included for any Florida resident when they check in. For others visiting, just ask at the desk and the Smores Kit ( well a voucher for the kit actually) will be given to you for use during your stay. A small fee applies. This was a really lovely touch and such a hallmark feature of the nicest resort in Daytona. The Shores is also on Facebook. I was a guest of Daytona Beach on the Fantastic Fall Discoveries Media Fam. I highly recommend the Shores and am grateful I was able to stay there. My opinion is all my own. Stay tuned this coming week for more about Daytona Beach.

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Kid’s Packing List Printable #travel

Paula — Thu, 07 May 2015 21:39:47 +0000

Whether you’re packing for the beach, or a week away at camp, it helps if the kids pitch in. But if your kids are like mine at all, then they sometimes pack all the wrong things. Like seven books, no underwear and two blankets. Heck, who needs a bathing suit at the beach anyways? Or for that matter, shorts? Or pyjamas even? I typically do the double check before we get out the door, but there are always things that slip by. Like this particular family trip when someone packed something that got us the hairy eyeball at airport security. Lucky we didn’t get more than that I suppose. Let’s face it when we travel as a family of four there is no earthly way that I will be doing everyone’s packing. They can do some of the work themselves if they want the big payoff of awesome family travel experience together. Sometimes it helps to have some guidelines. This printable kid’s packing list will help. After all everyone has one of those stories, right? The kids did their own packing and they packed jeans for Grand Cayman kind of weather. Or they totally forgot their running shoes. Argh! Help them get organized with this list instead. Are your kids doing camp this year? Kid’s Packing List PS-1

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