resorts Archives — Thrifty Mommas Tips

Weekends are a Blast at Sherkston Shores

Paula — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 14:03:58 +0000

Waterslides are our jam. So, when I heard that Sherkston Shores on the banks of Fort Erie near Port Colbourne had waterslides, and cute cottages, and beachfront, well I was in. Same can be said for my teens, and trust me teens can sometimes be a hard sell. That’s the lovely thing about Sherkston Shores – it’s a beautiful beachfront location that truly is fun for all ages. Our Family Retreat Sherkston Shores welcomed several influencers for a blogger retreat this month over a four day weekend. The drive was manageable at a bit over 3 hours from London, Ontario. It is roughly the same amount of time from several suburbs of Toronto. And it is a short drive from New York as well. We checked the web site before arriving to see what kinds of activities they had available. Rock wall, paintball, swimming, bungee trampoline and boot camp? YES, PLEASE. So What is Sherkston Shores? There are 1500 homeowners at Sherkston Shores, and many different styles of units from doublewide to showpiece units with rooftop patios. If you rent, or are just popping in for a visit be sure to check out the model units. Another nice thing about Sherkston is the range of options available. The wide range of accommodations means there’s something to fit every size family and most budgets too. Cost: Weekly prices start at about $500 for rustic cabins. A cottage like the one we stayed in is a minimum of $1,000 a week to rent. Lakefront views are higher. Where is Sherkston Shores Community? Sherkston Shores is a beautiful, expansive, and clean resort lifestyle community. It’s just 20 minutes past Niagara Falls about as close to Port Colbourne as you can get. There are 560 acres of pure relaxation and entertainment here. You can rent cottages and stay for as little as a four day weekend or you can buy one and stay longer term. Cottages are air conditioned by the way. Arriving Let’s start at the beginning. Upon arrival you will be greeted at the welcome centre. If it is late then you will see the security guard at the cheek in gate waiting for you. This is a private space. Nobody will get in unless they are invited or staying here. (See more about the activities offered by clicking on my short video below shared on Youtube already) Touring Model Units We wandered through the model units dreaming about which one would fit our family. I loved that the use of space in each unit seems to be maximized for storage and functionality and also built in cupboards and closets mean you should not be tripping over suitcases or coolers when you visit. Then we took a big golf cart tour of the entire property. WHEW! There’s a lot to see. The Activities There’s more than enough to keep kids and adults alike busy at Sherkston Shores. You can spend time at the quarry fishing, or doing one of the dozens of water sports. Bring your stand up paddle board, rent paddle boats, a water tricycle, or a kayak for a small fee. On our last day we rented a paddle boat for four and spent an hour on the water. [tweetthis]Bring Your Fishing Poles and skateboards when you visit Sherkston Shores #WeHeartSherkston[/tweetthis] What is the Quarry? The quarry has a cool story of its own here. Once upon a time many years ago it was an active working limestone quarry until one night the evening supervisor fell asleep and the quarry filled overnight. Now the quarry is a swimming area and it’s super deep in some parts, at up to 60 feet, so be warned, but it is also pretty warm. The Beach They have 2 1/2 miles of beachfront at Sherkston Shores. There are launch areas for motorcraft at both Wyldewood Beach and Elco Beach. Every area is divided into communities. Each community has a name like Wyldewood Beach and Gulliver’s Landing. The luxury lakefront cottages have beachfront access. Beachfront access is permitted only by foot and by golf cart. There are tent sites with electricity and water too. Golf carts are the mode of transportation and so many owners have purchased their own tricked out personalized carts to get around. One night we took a walk to the beach and ran into an entire posse of cottage owners driving back home after the sunset. Note: You must be 16 with a valid license to drive a golf cart. Golf carts must be owned or rented only from the rental space designated by the resort. Own a Cottage Many of the cottage owners take pride in their space and have created a little oasis away from home. There’s a strong sense of community here and you could see families all enjoying a bonfire, walk or ride on the golf carts after dinner. Some property owners have built sheds attached to their cottages, for winter storage or for the golf carts off season. Why Own? OWNERS have a few special privileges that renters do not. access to the fitness area access to Owner’s exclusive areas, including Oasis Clubhouse special rates on some of the extra activities speciality classes and activities Occasional off site family or adult only outings Park maintenance, landscaping and weekly lawn cutting Our Cottage Unit The two bedroom cottage we stayed in was clean and spacious with a big deck. Our cottage slept four easily and one to two more could have managed to sleep on the pull out couch for a maximum of 6 people. Bunkbeds are in the second bedroom. A well appointed kitchen and dining area meant that you could easily stay and make your own meals all season to save some money. Pick up a bottle of wine while passing through Niagara! Each individual home or cottage has space for a maximum of two vehicles. The Family FunPLEX at Sherkston Shores The Family Funplex was my favourite spot at Sherkston Shores. There are three waterslides and a splash pad located a short walk past the three pools. The pool area is clean and there’s plenty of shade under umbrellas and sail shades. Pools are heated and warm and not overly deep, plus there are lifeguards on duty. Food Options? Of course, there’s definitely no diving here and also no alcohol is allowed. BUT, you can buy drinks and snacks at the bar. A Boston Pizza is attached to an arcade area that has indoor and outdoor seating. Knowing there’s a restaurant and a small grocery store on property is actually a really nice addition. Scheduled Activities The activity schedule is hopping all summer long. Try aqua aerobics and boot camp if you are a property owner. There’s beach volleyball and a skate park as well as a basketball court. Bring your scooter or skateboard and gear and don’t forget your basketball. There are many designated sports areas and courts, including a tennis court. We rode all the waterslides each day of our stay and we were lucky to have incredible weather during the weekend we were there. Summer truly shines at Sherkston Shores. My kids loved the bungee trampoline. At $9 each for 15 minutes I felt it was okay to pay the extra for such a fun activity. Another time we’d try the low ropes and rock wall too. Other Sherkston Shores activities and amenities: Fireworks every Saturday in peak season 18 hole mini putt golf Concerts and live entertainment Rock climbing Bungee trampoline (extra $) Daily activities program for all ages Indoor arcade Basketball, pickle ball and tennis courts. [tweetthis]You will never hear Mom I’m Bored at Sherkston Shores. #WeHeartSherkston #IFWTWA[/tweetthis] The Perfect Spot For a Long Weekend Getaway Can’t stop dreaming about going back and relaxing for a long weekend again. The range of activities at Sherkston Shores made this stay and this resort lifestyle community really stand out. Kids of all ages can’t help but have fun here. Pretty sure this is a spot where you will never hear: “Mom, I’m bored.” We spent a weekend at Sherkston Shores this month as part of the Sherkston Shores Blogger Retreat with Swerve PR. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful.

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Sugarbush Inn – Kick Back After a Long Day Skiing #IFWTWA #Sugarbush

Paula — Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:48:01 +0000

Sugarbush Inn is a great place to kick back and relax after a long day of skiing at Sugarbush Ski Resort. Located less than a mile from Lincoln Peak and right on the Mad Bus shuttle route, the historic Sugarbush Inn provides easy access to Sugarbush Resort’s excellent ski trails. And with its homey atmosphere, the inn makes your stay feel like a home away from home. Sugarbush Inn – Located Near All the Action The Sugarbush Inn is a stone’s throw away from Valley House Double and Gatehouse Quad. It’s less than a mile from Lincoln Peak and walking distance from several incredible restaurants – including Timbers Restaurant, The Bird’s Nest, and The Common Man. In addition to the slopes, the dining, and the ease, the inn is also only a 45 minute ride by car from Burlington International Airport, so it’s pretty easy to travel there. This year we drove to Vermont to do a family ski vacation at Sugarbush Resort. We found the Sugarbush Inn met all of our needs. It was sweet and not overly fancy, which is sometimes just right when clunking back to your room at end of day with legs that feel like lead. The History of Sugarbush Inn Sugarbush Resort was opened in 1958. The Sugarbush Inn was originally built around 1961, by Jim Herman. In the late 1960’s, the Inn burned to the ground, and was subsequently rebuilt by Herman. In 1977, Jay Young and his family relocated from Jamaica to purchase and run the Inn. During Young’s ownership, the Inn flourished as a four-season vacation spot, with tennis programs in the summer, and ice skating and cross-country skiing in the winter. Across the street from the Inn was a facility that housed the John Gardner Tennis Camp in summer, and the Rossignol Cross Country Center in winter. There were 13 tennis courts, miles of Nordic skiing trails, and an adjacent facility that housed a glass-enclosed indoor pool, locker rooms, hot tubs, and saunas. There was once an ice-skating rink in winter where the current parking lot is now. Young sold the Sugarbush Inn to Claneil Enterprises in 1984—the same year Claneil purchased the mountain from ARA Services. From that point on, the Sugarbush Inn has been under the same ownership as the mountain, and remains so today. In 2016, Summit Ventures began a renovation of the Inn. Approximately fifteen rooms were updated, as was the lobby entrance. There is currently an authentic Thai restaurant, Fit to Be Thai’d in the lower level of the Inn. The building that housed the indoor pool and hot tubs across the street is in current use as staff office space. And the tennis courts were relocated to the Sugarbush Health and Recreation Center. Today, the Inn is open during the winter season, and during the summer for private groups and events. Amenities Sugarbush Inn is a home away from home for skiers. The cozy rooms all have cable television, and wifi. In addition, guests can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast, free wi-fi, free public parking, shuttle service and 24-hour reception. It’s one of those places that’s quaint and family friendly. It sort of reminds me of the Inn in White Christmas. It is super quiet at night and fairly affordable too. In addition to the laid back atmosphere, and room amenities, the Inn also offers a lounge area. This is the first time we have had adjoining rooms with the kids and I loved that this afforded them a bit of independence while also offering us privacy as well. Everyone had space to relax and sleep well. There are only a few small criticisms I have of Sugarbush Inn – the rooms are quite dated and this continental breakfast is not enough to power through a morning of skiing. Traveller Tip: Ask for adjoining rooms if you have children. Sugarbush Inn – Ski All Day. Kick Back All Night Sugarbush Inn offers a great location that makes the stay more convenient and comfortable, but more importantly, it offers an atmosphere of warmth and welcoming that is nice after a long day on the slopes. My family recently visited Sugarbush Resort as media guests so that I could write about the experience here. We enjoyed four amazing days of skiing, staying, exploring and dining in the area. We are sharing several of our experiences here. My opinion is all my own and it is truthful.

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The Avani Victoria Falls, Zambia – Best of Two Worlds

Paula — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 12:57:57 +0000

The minute our shuttle pulls up to the The Avani Victoria Falls in Livingstone, Zambia I know we are in for a treat. After an early morning, a flight from Lukasa and a drive to the destination, the journalists on my shuttle are sleepily staring out windows until someone hollers – GIRAFFE. We roll up to the lobby where we are greeted by a group of four local dancers who take turns placing hand fashioned crowns on our heads while someone snaps photos. Located in Subsaharan Africa, the Avani Victoria Falls is a welcoming, unique resort located within walking distance to the wonderous Victoria Falls. The nature reserve the property sits on features zebras, giraffes, monkeys and more, roaming the grounds daily at dawn and dusk. This past October I had the chance to spend three wonderful nights at the Avani when doing a fellowship in Zambia. From the moment I arrived I felt welcome and safe. Staff are attentive and friendly and the surroundings are immaculate and magical. It’s All About Location Just like that real estate adage: it’s all about location. The Avani Victoria Falls in Livingstone has location in spades. Imagine waking up and opening your drapes to see zebras all over the courtyard grazing on grass. Now imagine driving back on your shuttle at night after a long day working or exploring and finding a bull elephant crossing the road with a small entourage. You get all that and more at The Avani Victoria Falls. Even now, writing this and reflecting on being there, I can’t help but shake my head in wonder at how incredible it was watching wildlife peacefully grazing while tourists stroll past. Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park The Avani Victoria Falls is not far from the banks of the Zambezi River, in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. Rated at three stars, this resort felt much higher to me. There are 221 en suite rooms and numerous spaces equipped for conference capabilities as well. Every room has either a view of the landscaped in ground pool at the heart of the resort, where wildlife can be spotted daily as well, or a view of the lush SubSaharan bush. A Moroccan Style Beauty Moroccan style rooms are charming and remind you that you are immersed in a completely different culture. Each of the rooms has ample space for at least 2 people and a small family could manage in the room that I stayed in. There is a large bathroom space with shower and bathtub. There are two restaurants on property. Buffet style breakfasts and dinners are perfect for conference, business or family travel. This is not a place that stands on formality and yet there are many opportunities to enjoy traditional African dishes here. The grounds are lush and the grass is peppered with quirky animal sculptures. On arrival you will be escorted by shuttle to your room. You are likely to pass by a cute looking pond but beware the sign regarding a crocodile on the premises. If you are traveling with small children they will need close supervision due to the wildlife here. Located a really short walk away is the Royal Livingstone Hotel. The Avani Victoria Falls shares some privileges with the Livingstone so be sure to take advantage of those. In your off hours you can easily walk the pathways to the falls or to the neighbouring Royal Livingstone Hotel. The patio there overlooking the Zambezi River is gorgeous. Make it a priority to visit at least once when the sunsets. Have a sundowner as you watch a family of Hippopotamus yawn and play in the river. Be sure to snap some photos and a selfie or two. Best of Two Worlds Near Victoria Falls A stunning location, the Avani Victoria Falls is the more affordable of the two resorts both located on the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. The Royal Livingstone is the second of the two. Visitors can freely move between the Avani and The Royal Livingstone. Wifi is free but be warned you are in Zambia and it is not as reliable as some other destinations. [tweetthis]Traveller Tip – #travel You are able to freely move between the Avani Victoria Falls and The Royal Livingstone.[/tweetthis] Local Temperatures Temperatures in this area of the world are extremely hot and can hit 40 Celsius regularly. It’s important to hydrate and take breaks in your room. Water at this resort is safe and drinkable. Bottled water is also readily available if you prefer. Always check with your local travel clinic or family doctor to determine which vaccinations are crucial. I had numerous vaccines preparing for this important trip. The Avani Victoria Falls, Zambia There are so many things to do nearby. The Avani Victoria Falls is the perfect spot to stay if you plan to take part in any of the adventure activities nearby. Because this resort essentially backs onto Victoria Falls, you are within 5 to 10 minutes of the Zimbabwe border and can cross over. Do your research first though and check to see if it is safe, what it costs and how to cross – by foot or car. The view from either side of the Falls is gorgeous but there are better photo opportunities on the Zimbabwean side. And there’s a wicked crazy bungee jumping activity on the Zimbabwe side of the falls. I travelled as a recipient of the UN Foundation’s Zambia Fellowship this October. I received transportation, accommodations, excursions, and meals while visiting Zambia. My opinion is my own and my stories are truthful.

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How To Find a Pet Friendly Hotel #travel

Paula — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 13:32:58 +0000

If you plan to travel with your pet, one of the most important things you can do is research a pet friendly hotel from the start. Don’t get stuck. The last thing you want is to set out on a road trip and find yourself unable to locate a place to stay that allows pets. The bad news is extra fees for pets can be high. The good news is there are many resorts, airlines and hotel chains that now have pet friendly accommodations. You will want to research and find the best hotel for your situation and then book your room in advance to ensure you and your pet have a place to stay. Many pet-friendly hotels only take certain types of pets. Most of them are dog-friendly but some don’t allow certain types of animals so you need to find out the complete pet policy first. Don’t leave this to chance. Your pet is a valued member of your family. If you travel with them, you need to plan and be sure they have a fun time too. You should call in advance and ask questions about their policy and what accommodations, if any, will be provided for your pet when you stay. Also be sure to ask about any additional fees for having a pet in the room and any restrictions on the type or size of the pet. [tweetthis]Do you travel with your pet? Here are a few tips. #travel [/tweetthis] In The USA: There are some American chains known for offering pet-friendly hotels such as La Quinta, Quality Inn, Best Western, Extended Stay America, Red Roof Inn, Holiday Inn, and Days Inn. There are also specialty or boutique hotels that offer pets. Not all locations have the same rules, however, and there may be extra fees involved so again, this is why planning your trip, or road trip, in advance is so important. In Canada: In Canada there are also many resorts and hotel chains that accommodate a pet friendly lifestyle. Some even embrace it now. This is a trend that is starting to be the rule rather than the exception. Thriftlodge and Travelodge have many locations with pet friendly accommodations. There’s even a web site called Bring Fido that can help you to plan and sort through some of the extra fees, and locations of pet friendly resorts, and hotels in each Canadian province. There are a few B and B’s listed there too. [tweetthis]Extra fees to stay in a hotel with pet friendly policies can range from $15 – $50 a night per pet. #travel[/tweetthis] Choice Hotels International has a pet friendly policy. Pets are only allowed on ground floors and there can’t be more than two pets per room. The extra fee though is quite affordable at $15 per pet at each of their pet friendly locations. In general across Canada and the USA you can count on a minimum of $15 extra per pet per night. Some of the higher end hotels and resorts, such as some of the individual hotels in the Fairmont chain charge as much as $50 per pet per night. [tweetthis]Many hotels offer pet friendly accommodations, but you should check the extra fees first. #travel[/tweetthis] Finding a Pet Friendly Hotel: If you travel with pets, finding a pet friendly spot to vacation is not as hard as it once was. There are dozens of hotel chains that now have pet friendly accommodations. A quick look at your chosen resort’s web site can provide the information you need. Call if you are concerned or if the policy is not clear. Just check first so you don’t end up with any surprises on the road.

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The Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina, Martin County, Florida

Paula — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 13:35:23 +0000

The Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina is one of the nicest places I’ve ever stayed. The atmosphere is upscale. The location is fantastic and the surroundings are truly gorgeous, but the service here is the star of the show. This June I was invited to do a travel writing gig in Martin County, Florida. I was staying in Indian River County for a couple of days and having a blast trying paddle boarding and kayaking. Quite frankly I lost all track of time and just finished up my activities, when I realized I was expected in Martin County at the Hutchinson Island, Marriott Beach Resort and Marina. Luckily the drive to the Stuart Beach area from Vero Beach area is super straightforward. I tossed all my clothing hastily into my suitcase and headed north. A tropical storm had been winding through Florida when I arrived, but it started to leave shortly after I arrived in Stuart Beach area. That was good, because I was ready to explore. But first, I was hungry. After a speedy check in and a quick refresh in my spacious, immaculate room at the Marriott Resort, Hutchinson Island, I was starving. I accepted the recommendation of the staff at the Marriott and popped into the Baha Grille. I was not disappointed at all. I am not really a white fish girl, but I had a tonne of seafood in Indian River County and figured I would try something a little different. The person who checked me in earlier in the day recommended Grouper and I was ridiculously happy I took him up on that. The Baha Grille was casual with a wide range of dishes and an extensive wine list. The prices are standard for a resort restaurant. This dish was not inexpensive at around $26, but it was so worth it. Grouper in a light mushroom sauce. I never ever in a million years would think of pairing fish with mushrooms. The grouper was moist and perfectly flavourful. I can barely write about it without getting hungry. If ever at the Marriott Resort Hutchinson Island, have the grouper. I had a small appetizer off the chef’s specials menu consisting of cream cheese won tons. The appetizer was good, but a little bit greasier than I like. The meals also come with a bread service. The food was wonderful and the service was on point. This was the best meal I had in Martin County. The Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina is about 20 minutes from Stuart, the tiny coastal town, voted America’s Happiest Seaside Town 2016 by Coastal Living.com. The resort is also close to Stuart Beach, The Florida Oceanographic Institute, and is within walking distance to the Elliott Museum. It is a short drive from Hobe Sound. My room was in the main building and it faced the pool. It was well decorated, fresh and lovely. There was a balcony overlooking the pool and hot tub area. The second floor room had a large washroom with shower and bath. There was a coffee nook and bar fridge near the entry. Despite my concerns that a pool facing room might be loud at night, all noise ended by 9 p.m. There is ample parking at the Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina. The resort itself is massive and there’s a shuttle there that will take you to the beach or marina. The Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina is halfway between Orlando and Miami. It’s a 200 acre resort on an island bordered by the Atlantic Ocean beaches and the Intracoastal Waterway. The resort features 274 deluxe newly renovated accommodations with 224 guest rooms and 50 suites. The Sandpiper Building is locate directly on the ocean. The resort offers a wide range of activities and it is also very family friendly. I would happily return for a lengthier stay. The location of The Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina is perfection. I was able to use it as home base while exploring the cutest coastal town ever – Stuart, then riding the Stuart Trolley, before visiting Elliott Museum and the Florida Oceanographic. Because of the closeness to Stuart Beach I was able to take a surfing lesson at surfing camp before I left for home. The Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina The pool and hot tub area is beautiful. There is poolside service of course and staff are both friendly and efficient. Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort and Marina is located at 555 NE Ocean BLVD, Stuart, Florida. I was a guest of the Martin County Tourism Board and Visit Florida while in the area and received compensation, flights, meals, accommodations and other perks while there. My opinion is all my own and it is truthful.

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Captain Hiram’s Resort in Sebastian, Florida

Paula — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 07:14:53 +0000

Captain Hiram’s Resort is a quaint, quirky, comfortable little slice of the tropics in Indian River County, Florida. This unassuming beach resort is nestled into a tiny town called Sebastian, in Indian River County not far from Vero Beach. Drawing its flavour from Key West, and the colourful islands of the Caribbean, Captain Hiram’s Resort is a sweet spot to stay and a bit of a secret, tucked away as it is, providing gorgeous views along the Treasure Coast and Sebastian Inlet, Indian River Estuary and Lagoon. Where is Captain Hiram’s? Captain Hiram’s Resort and Marina is a bit hidden, back off US Highway 1, Sebastian, Florida, roughly 13 miles from Vero Beach. Start looking for the Jungle River Cruise sign and you are almost on top of it. What you see from the road though is just a small slice of what you get. After a red eye flight and a very long day of travel I arrived at Captain Hiram’s Resort for a two night stay while exploring Indian River County and Martin County on the Atlantic Ocean side of Florida this month. Captain Hiram’s Resort is a colourful place, with friendly staff and a very laid back atmosphere. Try this Florida River Cruise nearby if you visit. Impressions of Sebastian Sebastian is a quiet coastal fishing village and it’s quite peaceful. The scenery is gorgeous and the marine wildlife is exceptional. In fact Captain Hiram’s Resort is on the Indian River Lagoon and Estuary, which boasts the most biodiverse ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere. That is abundantly apparent one night when I spot dolphins, fish, multiple different species of birds and crabs, and a barely noticeable hint of a manatee, all while having dinner. I just looked down outside the restaurant on the rocks and found this little guy. #lovefl #travel #florida #fresh #food #fun #summer #seafood #nature #instanature A photo posted by Paula Schuck (@inkscrblr) on Jun 6, 2016 at 3:03pm PDT Indian River Florida Facts The Indian River lagoon and estuary boasts more than 3,000 species of plants and animals. It is well studied and also monitored for impact of pollution on the many species that call this area home. The mangroves that are so common here along the barrier islands create a safe nursery space for baby creatures of all sorts. There are many protected species living in the lagoon. This area is globally significant because Indian River County and Martin County coastal areas provide one of the most dense sea turtle nesting areas in the world. Captain Hiram’s Resort appeals to many types of travellers Why Captain Hiram’s? Sports teams pass through here often and the resort is booked solid every weekend all year round with players and their families in town for tournaments. There are a great number of fishing tournaments in the area throughout the year. On Indian River estuary this morning I spied easily 12-15 different birds, fish, Dolphins and other marine life. #sunrisesnothighrises #lovefl #travel #familytravel #trip #florida #fun #summer #love #nature #instanature A photo posted by Paula Schuck (@inkscrblr) on Jun 7, 2016 at 7:49am PDT The Marina You need only have dinner or breakfast at Blackfins, literally across the parking lot and part of the resort, to see why this spot attracts diehard anglers. The marina is stunning and Captain Hiram’s Resort boasts dock to drink service in seconds. The marina is capable of docking many boats with 60 slips. The fresh seafood is very good here and the drinks are tasty too. Small but notable feature – this restaurant uses only Fiesta dishes. If you know dishes at all then you get that this is a classy colourful treat adding even more island flare. Traveler Tip: Order breakfast at Blackfins, Crabbie Eggs Benedict was fantastic. The rooms were clean and comfortable. I stayed in a spacious corner suite facing the pool with a king bed. The building is only two stories high and that’s with good reason. City planners have made this a priority here in Indian River County so no buildings can be higher than 2-3 stories, so the view of the lagoon and river is never obstructed or inaccessible. The hashtag in the area says it all #sunrisesnothighrises High rises are not welcome because the view is a huge part of the attraction here. [tweetthis]In Indian River County and Vero Beach the hashtag says it all #lovefl #sunrisesnothighrises #travel #[/tweetthis] There was a small balcony facing the palm tree lined parking lot which I loved having even though it rained the first day quite a bit. Captain Hiram’s Resort has a bar and a stage area where musical acts perform every night of the year. That’s right there’s music every night of the year. Some concerts are held here and they are popular with tourists and residents. There are rooms with a small kitchen nook equipped with wet bar, fridge and microwave. You can see why this would be popular with families. That helps to save money when traveling as a group or a family. The sitting area also has a TV set and space to lounge. These suites are great for a few things: businesses host conferences here and will occasionally use these rooms as meeting spaces. Weddings are also hosted here at Captain Hiram’s Resort partly due to the scenery and the pretty beachfront. Pool? The heated pool was nice, even if it wasn’t being used much the two nights I was there due to rainy weather. The day I left the beach was getting busier and I could see why. The beach is small but charming. There’s an area to swim, rent paddleboards, and kayaks. What About Activities? An activity centre is on site and it’s very accommodating for people who are staying at the resort. This beach area is small, but very family friendly. I spied several multi-generational groups splashing around that last morning I visited. Captain Hiram’s Resort in Sebastian Also Has: The free WIFI was an excellent feature that made my stay even better than I expected and free parking is also ample. Park your car and leave it. There are several restaurants and some small shops in walking distance, but this is not a tourist mecca. This area is not overly commercial, which I found enjoyable and unique to Sebastian. There are no chain restaurants here, but there are several local authentic eateries with great seafood and other fare. In fact, the fresh catch couldn’t possibly be fresher here. This Indian River County Resort Features: Heated Outdoor Pool 60 Slip Marina Watersports Rentals Fishing Charters Live Entertainment Nightly Banquet Facilities for Weddings, Family Reunions, Corporate or Business Conventions, Seminars, etc. Free Parking Free WI FI Coffee makers in the rooms Close to Vero Beach and Sebastian Inlet where you can visit several beaches, nature preserves, museums, and watersport activities, sea turtle nesting walks and more. Learn More: Learn more about Captain Hiram’s Resort, or to book a stay visit: http://www.hirams.com Disclosure: The resort is also on Facebook and Twitter I was a guest of Visit Florida and the tourism departments of Martin County and Indian River County, Florida. I received accommodations, flights, compensation and other perks as part of my stay. My opinion is all my own and it is also 100 % truthful.

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Best Toddler Friendly Family Resorts

Paula — Tue, 10 May 2016 08:05:30 +0000

Family resorts are a great way to enjoy some time away together. These resorts feature activities that are fun for the whole family. I am a massive fan of places that offer kid’s club and other entertaining options for children. Recently I realized though, when trying to help a close family member find a family friendly resort that would accept a three year old into kid’s club, that there are limits on younger children’s ages at many resorts. That makes it challenging for parents of tots. It can be difficult to find family resorts that are toddler friendly. I’ve put together a list of resorts that are fun for the entire family, including toddlers! Family Resorts That Accommodate Toddlers These resorts have something for everyone, including toddlers. If you have toddlers, you know that you need to keep them occupied. You also know that a little escape every so often is a good thing. These resorts are toddler friendly, so the entire family can have a blast, even the little ones. Winnetu Oceanside Resort This resort on the island of Martha’s Vineyard includes a complimentary children’s program for kids from 9AM to noon for kids as young as 3 years of age. A great feature of this resort is the staffing. There’s one counselor for every five children. counselors take kids on trips to the beach, working farms, or turtle hunting at the pond. Tyler Place Family Resort Tyler Place Family resort in Highgate, Vermont is the ultimate when it comes to toddler friendly family resorts. In all, there are nine programs for children as young as 2 1/2 years of age with additional morning and full-time childcare services for infants and younger toddlers. A great feature of this resort is the way they divide up the kids by age. There’s no chance of your 3 year old getting toppled by a rambunctious 10 year old. Club Med Sand Piper Bay Club Med Sand Piper Bay in Port Saint Lucie, Florida features a children’s program for kids as young as 4 months, and it allows kids under 4 years of age to stay for free. Petit Club Med, for kids between the ages of 2 and 3, provides outdoor walks, stimulating play, and creative activities. Older toddlers can enjoy an onsite water park and playground. Smugglers’ Notch Smugglers Notch, located in Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont, is another winner for toddler friendly family resorts. Its TREASURES Child Care Center takes children as young as 6 weeks old. It’s open from 8:30AM to 4:00PM, and it includes lunches and snacks. The center is broken up into three age ranges: 6 weeks to 16 months, 17 months to 2 1/2 years old, and 2 1/2 years to 3 years of age. READ MORE:You can read more about that fantastic vacation at Smugglers’ Notch here – we visited them in 2016 and we toured all the family friendly amenities including Treasures nursery. Atlantis Resorts Atlantis Resorts offer all kinds of fun activities for toddlers at their family resorts. Programs include Sea Squirts, where children between the ages of 3 and 6 can feed onsite marine animals and learn about them. Atlantis Pals allows toddlers to create their own stuffed animals. Atlantis Theater allows toddlers to watch movies and snack on tasty treats. Toddler Friendly Family Resorts are Out There, and They’re Great Toddler friendly family resorts can be a God send for families with little ones. As we all know, toddlers need constant activity or they become little demons (said with much love) and of course we all need breaks occasionally from parenting. Some of these toddler friendly family resorts allow Moms and Dads a chance to relax and restore and others allow parents to hit the slopes, skiing double black diamonds while their tots are safely cared for and perhaps even starting out on skis too. Choose Wisely These toddler friendly family resorts make sure the little ones have just as much fun as the rest of the family.

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Five Reasons to Stay at Certified Disney Resorts in Florida #travel

Paula — Tue, 14 Jul 2015 10:17:11 +0000

Disney is always a crowdpleaser. It is the one trip pretty much every family should take. But how do you know where to stay and how to save money? And should you stay at a Certified Disney Resort or should you choose a different option? If you’re planning to visit Disney World, staying at a certified Disney resort is a great way to fully enjoy the park without a lot of headaches. Staying at Disney resorts allows better access to the park, less headaches, and more fun. In the end, it takes away so much of the hassle that can go along with visiting the park. Take it from me, we have travelled both ways to Disney and it;s hard to top Disney service at a true Disney Resort. A Disney Resort Means More Fun Staying at a Disney resort may mean paying a little more for your lodging. However, after you factor in your savings on gas, time, and dining- not to mention experiencing the pure magic of Disney – it’s well worth it. Transportation This is my number one pick for the Disney resort advantage. When you stay at a Disney resort, you don’t have to worry about driving, finding a parking spot, and all of the other frustrating factors associated with staying off site. Instead, you can take a shuttle, ferry, or monorail to any Disney associated attractions. Straight from the airport, the magic begins. They pick you up in a shuttle and whisk you away to wherever you are staying. We stayed one year at Port Orleans and it was incredible. Dining If you have the Disney Dining Plan, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious meals at any of the food courts and restaurants on the property. That’s wonderful, because some of the really good character dining experiences aren’t at the park. They’re at the resorts. You can even dine at other Disney resorts in the area. Extended Hours If you stay at a Disney resort, you’ll have the benefit of extra hours to enjoy the park. Every day during either the morning or evening, one park or more offers extended hours just for Disney resort guests. Although, this still means you’ll have to share the park with a few thousand people, it’s a far better option than battling the raging sea of off site visitors during regular hours. Exclusive Reservations Staying at a Disney resort allows you to make your dining reservations 10 days before regular guests. That means you’ll be more likely to score reservations for the really hard to get dining times. In addition to that, you’ll be able to make your Fast Pass choices 60 days before your vacation. That’s twice as far out as non-resort guests. [tweetthis]There are a few reasons to choose Disney Resorts when you travel to Disney #travel[/tweetthis] Never Ending Disney Magic A Disney resort is almost like staying at the park itself. When you stay at a Disney resort, the magic never truly ends. From the themed lobbies and restaurants to the animal pillows, a Disney resort exudes all of the magic and wonder that the park itself has to offer. [tweetthis]When you stay at a Disney Resort the magic truly never ends. #travel[/tweetthis] Get a Complete Disney Experience at Disney Resorts There’s nothing like staying at a Disney resort to experience the full magic of Disney World. When you stay at a Disney resort, you may leave the Disney World grounds, but you’ll never leave the magic behind. It’s one of the best ways to capture the Disney experience in all of its magical, wonderful glory. What do you think? Have you ever stayed on Disney property?

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Ermitage Du Lac, Tremblant, Quebec

Paula — Wed, 20 May 2015 02:04:09 +0000

Spacious Accommodations at Mont Tremblant I wish that I had taken more pictures of the inside of our suite at Ermitage du Lac, Mont Tremblant when we stayed there earlier this year. Ermitage Du Lac was one of the biggest suites we have ever stayed in as a family. Three massive self contained bedrooms, each with their own bathroom, plus a large kitchenette and gorgeous views. Can you imagine? My kids thought they were in paradise (No arguments over who slept where and no yelling as someone hammered on a bathroom door for the other to speed it up. No, none of that because we each had our own bathrooms.) Appearances are Deceiving Ermitage Du Lac appears only modest from the outside really, but the inside was functional and spacious. Ermitage Du Lac was one of the numerous properties in Mont Tremblant resort area near the village at the base of the ski hill. Our Tremblant Adventure Right before March break this year we were flown by Porter Airlines to Mont Tremblant where my entire family dined at some incredible restaurants and learned how to ski. We were each given two full mornings of ski instruction, so that we were able to embrace this new challenging sport. We enjoyed every moment of our trip. It was incredible from start to finish, and it went by much too fast. Read More About Our Tremblant Trip I wrote a couple of posts about the details of Tremblant family travel here. There is much to do (50 things to do in Tremblant) and yes, in fact, your entire family can learn how to ski in two days!!) Next year we hope to return to ski for real (because now we know what we are doing.) The view from many windows was enchanting in Ermitage Du Lac, Mont Tremblant. The skating rink and chapel were right outside the window and they were lit up at night. Skates are for loan and the rink access is included for guests. There is also a tubing area that is included. We did not have time to try it unfortunately. There are many gorgeous trees making the wintery scene pretty much perfect. Excellent for Ski Families Ermitage Du Lac was not overly fancy but completely functional and I really appreciated that with kids learning to ski. We could suit up every day without worrying we would damage the floor with our heavy ski boots. I felt at home and spoiled without feeling on edge thinking my kids might break a glass fixture or fall off a balcony. Inside the Rooms The rooms were clean and the bedding was extremely warm and soft. Perfect for skiers. There are fireplaces in the suites. The space is comparable to something I once stayed in at Blue Mountain in Collingwood, but the Ermitage Du Lac is much bigger, not unlike the mountains at Tremblant. Go big or go home is the mantra here in more ways than one. [tweetthis]Ermitage Du Lac suites are extremely spacious #tremblant #travel[/tweetthis] This was the main bedroom. It was spacious and warm. There was a TV in the main bedroom and a smaller television in the living room. We were typically far too busy to care about the TV though. Each of the smaller bedrooms had a large bed and a dresser too. The kitchenette was ample and many people on our floor were cooking in the rooms. This suite would have been ideal for a week long stay for two families because it was just that large. Where is Ermitage Du Lac? Ermitage Du Lac is located at the heart of the pedestrian village right at Mont Tremblant. It is literally ski in and ski out. No cars needed at all and the space is safe enough that you won’t be worried your kids will be hurt by a vehicle. (occasional shuttle vans taking guests to and from the airport are the busiest the roads get.) [tweetthis]Ermitage Du Lac is ski in and ski out located at heart of the pedestrian village #travel #tremblant[/tweetthis] Food Guests are provided a complimentary continental breakfast which frankly was one of the nicest continental breakfasts we’ve ever had. Sometimes continental is literally muffins and a coffee station. This breakfast space had yogurt, cheese, cereal, fresh fruit and other pastries with coffee, tea and juice. The kids were as happy with that as we were. The scenery outside the breakfast area is also stunning. Mont Tremblant is well equipped for families and it is open all year round. There is an outdoor hot tub, sauna and fitness room. There are lockers to store your skis in at front of the lobby area. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Ermitage Du Lac to anyone travelling to Tremblant. Apparently this destination is super hot during the spring break when US students also flock to ski hills. For me Ermitage Du Lac is a $$$$ 1/2 out of $$$$$. We were guests of Mont Tremblant resort and Tremblant tourism. My opinion is my own and it is truthful. If you are looking for a family travel blogger to cover or review your event or destination feel free to pitch me inkscrblr@rogers.com This is a travel Tuesday linkup. I host this linkup most Tuesdays. Share your favourite travel posts.

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It’s Time to RSVP For The #ParkbridgeLife Twitter Party April 15 at 8 p.m. EST #travel

Paula — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 16:35:53 +0000

It was a rainy afternoon in August and our second day at Parkbridge Resorts, Lakes of Wasaga. We were there for three nights as guests. The kids had a friend with them and I was wrestling with the urge to tell them all to get off their Nintendos when I heard my youngest daughter holler: “There’s something over there by the lake.” All three children threw their sandals on and they ambled towards the lake. That weekend we had already spied dozens of groundhogs, we’d been swimming multiple times, made our own fishing poles of twine and branches, spied many fish, played some board games, been mini golfing and picked up about 30 different frogs and toads. The rumour was that there was a beaver living in the bullrushes near the picturesque lake at Lakes of Wasaga. I followed after the kids with my iPhone in my hand, partly skeptical and a wee bit hopeful that they had found the fabled creature of the lake. I stared at a rock and was ready to leave, after all my mission had been accomplished anyways: the kids had dropped electronics to interact, investigate and explore the natural surroundings. As I turned, the rock moved. I have never ever seen a beaver up close before but there it was. It was unmistakably a beaver. The rumours were true. We didn’t believe it until we saw it for ourselves. That kind of describes the entire stay at a Parkbridge Resort Community. You won’t believe it until you are there. Parkbridge, Canada’s leading owner and operator of land lease communities believes in affordable, comfortable and secure places to live, vacation and retire. Parkbridge has four types of properties: Cottage & RV Resorts, Retirement Communities, Family Lifestyle Communities & Marinas. [tweetthis]Parkbridge has four types of properties: Cottage & RV Resorts, Retirement Communities, Family Lifestyle Communities & Marinas.[/tweetthis] The cabins are clean and spacious. They are heated and safe and you can easily spend a week or two there as many have fully stocked kitchen areas. We found everything we needed. I even found a cork screw. So a family could easily sleep 5 to 6 in a cabin the size of the one we had. There are many nearby stores if you need to run out and grab some food to cook in the well equipped kitchen. There are also options to purchase a cabin as well. You can rent, or buy which makes this a really appealing way to manage a yearly family vacation or an entire season of glamping. This is my kind of stay. Glamping in a gorgeous cabin, not too far from the beach, but also secluded enough to feel like you are away from the city. Looking to get away this summer at an affordable price? This is a great solution. Check out the resorts section on the Parkbridge website and browse the map, or search resorts by name: http://www.parkbridge.com/en-ca/Pages/CottageRVResorts.aspx [tweetthis]This is my kind of stay, glamping, #ParkbridgeLife not far from the beach, or major urban centre and yet somehow also in a secluded restful atmosphere.[/tweetthis] [tweetthis]Parkbridge Resort and Lifestyle Communities #ParkbridgeLife are located throughout Ontario, Alberta, Quebec and British Colombia.[/tweetthis] There are amenities for people of all ages and each community is unique in what it offers. Stay a week, a month, an entire summer or a whole season from April through to Thanksgiving. You can rest easy, relaxing all summer long when you know your property is being well maintained by the team at Parkbridge. I know I am not the only one out there who has contemplated cottage ownership at one time or another but thought to themselves I am not sure I want to be driving every weekend to a cottage just to make sure the grass is cut and the water hasn’t overflowed and that nobody has broken in while I was away. At Parkbridge your home away from home is taken care of when you are away. You can learn more about Parkbridge Lifestyle Communities this month at our Linked Moms twitter party April 15 at 8 p.m. EST. There are $1200 worth of prizes!! RSVP now for the possibility of winning a prize. The grand prize will be a three night stay at one of the many Parkbridge Lifestyle Communities in Canada. [tweetthis]RSVP Now for a chance to win a three night stay at a Parkbridge Resort. #ParkbridgeLife[/tweetthis] Eligibility Rules are here: Read them so you don’t lose out. Please remember to show Parkbridge Lifestyle Communities some love on their social channels: Twitter – @ParkbridgeLife Facebook – Parkbridge Lifestyle Communities. and follow the hosts as well for a chance to win. @LinkedMoms @inkscrblr @downshiftingpro We can’t wait to share this with you! See you there! Remember to RSVP with your twitter handle. And this particular party, the prizes are only open to Canadians.

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