Your Hip Family Travel Guide to All The Hotspots Worldwide

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Friday, September 14th, 2012

10 must do’s in Istanbul

by shauna under Archives, Home, Play with (2 Comments

shopping the Grand Bizare in Istanbul

 

1. watch a Whirling Dervish show

2. shop the Grand Bizarre

3. stay in the Sultanahmet (old part of town)

4. go into the Blue Mosque

5. drink some fresh pomegranate juice from a street vendor

6. buy a carpet

7. go get a scrub from one of the many old hammams

8. take a ride along the Bosphorus

9. let yourself day dream during the call of prayer

10. go to the Beyoglu and get your fortune told (it’s called Fal: you drink a Turkish coffee and the grounds left over are read)

 

waiting for my coffee to be read

Monday, September 10th, 2012

MONTEZUMA, COSTA RICA: Ylang Ylang Beach Resort

by shauna under Archives, Home, Sleep with 0 Comments

I can’t emphasize enough what a great place Costa Rica is to bring your kids.  Not only is it completely safe in all aspects (including health wise), but it’s a great country to explore.  You’ve got sun, sea, some of the best surfing in the world, great food, wonderful people, jungle, volcanos, and monkeys in the trees.  That’s right, monkeys in the trees.  The first time we went was when our son was 2 years old.  We took a 5 week vacation and made a point to really explore different areas.  One of our absolute favorite spots happens to be in the quaint, groovy town of Montezuma at the bottom tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.  Infact, we have been there quite a few times.  There is some travel that is involved with getting to this little slice of paradise (usually a car rental and semi adventurous roads), but I assure you, it is well worth your energy.  Montezuma is a tiny little town full of delicious, fresh food and has a very laid back, hippy dippy vibe.  It definitely attracts alot of yogis and surfers alike. The place to stay is called Ylang Ylang Beach Resort.  This little gem is a short beach walk into the town center.  The resort was built in harmony with the jungle, creating a garden of eden vibe including a beautiful, lagoon swimming pool, while the white sand beach is absolutely gorgeous.  And in the mornings we often woke up to the little monkeys hanging out in the trees above our cottage.  There are a few different accommodation options, but I can’t recommend enough for one of the free standing beach bungalows surrounded by the coconut trees and lush flowers, sitting right next to the sea with your own little patio and hammocks.  The decor is tropical Costa Rican with simple yet clean amenities (includes a ceiling fan and air conditioner).  The price includes the most fantastic (if you ask me the BEST food of anywhere else we have eaten in Costa Rica) breakfast and dinner.  They also offer yoga classes and spa treatments.  As far as I’m concerned, if this were the only beach location that you visited in Costa Rica, you would need not venture further for a better spot.

ROOM CHECK

1. midnight munchies:

They don’t have a 24 hour room service, but I assure you that the food that is included with your room is so fantastic you won’t miss it.

2. roomy:

These places are not giant by any means, but why hang in the room when you have hammocks to lye in while you can feel the gentle sea breeze and gaze at the deep, blue sea.

3. plushities:

the fan, the air conditioner, free wifi, Costarican coffee with maker in room

4. extra fluff:

The beds and bedding are simple but very clean and comfortable.

5. snaggables:

The only real snaggables  from this place are the spectacular shells that you can find on the beach.

6. super secret sexy time:

I’m gonna have to leave this one up to you, the rooms are not very big…

7. dock ya’s:

nada…nothing extra for the kids

to visit their website click: http://www.ylangylangbeachresort.com/

Friday, September 7th, 2012

Travel Times

by shauna under Archives, Home, Travel Tips with 0 Comments

Before kids, when I booked my travel itinerary I didn’t care what time the flight was, I just found the absolute cheapest ticket.  Those days are long gone.  I can’t stress enough at what a difference it makes when you try to purchase your air travel within your child’s schedule.  Especially for the young ones.  Avoid at all costs an overnight flight.  You may say to yourself, ah overnight flight they will sleep.  Sure they probably will, but will you?  Imagine showing up to your different time zone location with a rested child and all you want to do is take a little nap.  Not to mention the big possibility of arriving and them still wanting to sleep while you gather all your gear and have to go through long lines at customs. No fun my friends, I’ve done it.  I try my best to avoid the super early morning flights as well since it means having to wake up at 3am to get ready and to make it to the airport on time.  It can be very handy to be flying during nap time if you can get your little ones to comply.  They stay rested and you get a little break.  I realize that those ideal travel times really make a difference on your wallet, but there is a middle ground.  Do your research and you will find it, I assure you. You can usually find them when you go directly to the specific airline site. I usually do an overall search first through a site like kayak or bestfares to find who flies and general prices, then I go to the airline. It will most likely be a little bit more expensive than the cheapest flight, but what you gain in your over all experience is well worth it.

Thursday, September 6th, 2012

PARIS, FRANCE: Cecile Apartments

by shauna under Archives, Home, Sleep with 0 Comments

There are some really great reasons that Paris is often peoples favorite city worldwide when you can combine old, gorgeous architecture, a romantic Seine river running through it which to stroll or picnic upon, museums galore, daily, fresh baked croissants (I won’t even mention the real food), wonderful parks, unique boutiques, and, of course, the Eiffel tower.  Needless to say, there are some really fantastic hotels to stay at while visiting the oh-so romantic and beautiful Paris.  That is if you are traveling alone or with a lover.  The issue comes in when you decide to go to the City of Lights with your family.  Sure there are hotels that can accommodate you for a small fortune, but why try to squeeze into a smallish hotel room and spend a lot of cash when you can stay in a beautiful, comfortable, and clean apartment where you and your tribe can really spread out and stay in a very desirable neighborhood.  The website www.cecile-apartments.com is the place to goto.  Cecile, who owns and manages the seven apartments that are perfectly located, will help you to book one with ease and pure professionalism.  When you arrive at your chosen destination you will find the apartment to look exactly like the photos from the website with all the modern luxuries like great bedding and mattresses (king size in the master bedroom), nice towels, fully stocked kitchen, free wifi and free international phone calls, and even a washer and dryer (always a much favored amenity when I travel).  As far as the kitchen, there is certainly no pressure to have to cook on your vacation to this magnificent city filled with delicious food options, but it sure is nice to have access to one if you are anything like me and my family when we travel across the globe.  Our jet lag is so bad the first few days, after roaming the streets to the wee hours of the morning, it’s nice to cook a little munchie when everything else has long closed down.

To goto the website click:  http://www.cecile-apartments.com/

Tuesday, September 4th, 2012

TURKEY: Aphrodisias & Ephesus

by shauna under Archives, Home, Play with 0 Comments

I don’t know about you, but I really enjoy exploring ancient ruins from decades ago civilizations.  Infact, my entire tribe does.  It’s fun to imagine what life was like all those years ago while walking through the broken buildings and streets.   As I’ve mentioned in past entries, I also have a mission to seek out the UNESCO world heritage sites throughout the world.  There usually is very good reason that they have been placed in the protective glove and given some much needed tlc.

APHRODISIAS

If you are traveling in Turkey and need some ideas, I can’t recommend enough taking the time to visit one of the most sacred, ancient sites in Turkey originally dedicated to the Mother Goddess dating back to 5,800 BC.  Later in the 1st and 2nd century BC, when it fell into the hands of the Greeks, it became Aphrodisias, dedicated to the love goddess, Aphrodite. Even after the Romans took over the region in 74 BC and discovered this special site, the emperors Sulla and Julius Caesar were devotees and favored her little city. It wasn’t until the middle ages when it was taken over and turned into a Christian basilica. Not only are the remains simply beautiful to see, but walking through them you can still feel the sacred energy floating in the air.  This little gem has just recently been put on the radar.  Infact, as we speak there are archeologists working to uncover and piece this little city back together.

EPHESUS

A few hours away from Aphrodisias is the spectacular, magnificent ancient remains of Ephesus.  This old city has roots dating as far back as 6,000 BC.  Over the many hundreds of years after the Greeks and Romans turned this into a massive city, what now remains is one of the largest Roman cities in the Mediterranean.  At one point it housed 250,000 people.  There is so much history and religious background, that this city has been named one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.  What is so astounding is that there is so much to see and yet they have only unearthed 10 % of it.  I assure you that concept is hard to swallow when you see the shear magnitude of the colosseum alone.  This is a must see destination.  But do yourself a favor and try to beat the massive crowds and arrive early, people from all over the world travel to see this spot.

 

Thursday, August 30th, 2012

ROME, ITALY: www.romeloft.com

by shauna under Archives, Home, Sleep with 1 Comments

When you are trying to decide on a destination to go to with the family, I can’t recommend Rome enough.  Think the center of Roman power, gorging on many gastronomical delights, strolling past incredible ancient ruins (if you listen closely you can still hear the cheers in the colleseum), and fantastic art (we are only brushing the surface by me mentioning the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling of  Michelangelo’s famous “the creation of Adam”). What an absolutely gorgeous, romantic, fun, and historically enriching experience Rome can be.  Don’t even waist your time on trying to find a hotel when you can rent a fantastic, fully furnished and equipped apartment or loft.  Not only will you have more room than you would have ever had in a hotel, you can literally spread out, but you will only pay a fraction of the price.  Then you will also have the opportunity to feel the local lifestyle and even buy some snackies to stock in the kitchen.  Not to mention for those motivated to cook, the kitchens have all that you need to flex your culinary inspirations.  The website http://www.romeloft.com/ is so easy to navigate, with all of the choices really nice ones and in great locations (I don’t think you can go wrong).  As well, there are options to fit all budgets.  They also offer (for a fee) a pick up from the airport and a breakfast basket full of basic items to be waiting at the apartment upon arrival.  I assure you that after traveling halfway across the globe with my tribe, both were a very welcome treat.  You can rely on the photos from the website.  They really represent the apartments well.  But be aware, when it mentions a king size bed, make sure you enquire if it is infact an American equivalent or a European version of one.  Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way.  Infact, I would recommend checking with whatever apartment you are interested in that they do in fact include all of the amenities listed (i.e. wifi, air conditioner) just to feel secure with what you will show up to.  And whatever you do, have an amazing time and eat a gelato for me…

Tuesday, August 28th, 2012

BODRUM, TURKEY: Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay

by shauna under Archives, Home, Sleep with 0 Comments

If you feel like a little R & R from all of your cave spelunking in Cappadocia,  browsing the Grand Bizarre and gorgeous mosques in Istanbul, or from walking countless hours through the many, ancient ruins throughout Turkey, head West to Bodrum peninsula where the Aegean Sea meets up with the Mediterranean.  Then do yourself a BIG favor and splurge.  Splurge big and stay at the absolute BEST spot on the peninsula, the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay.  The rooms are plush, the food is scrumptious, and honestly words can’t describe how awesome the pool is.  Then you have the most dreamy, private, crystal clear cove to frolic in.  I have never in my life had such a hard time deciding where to spend the afternoon…the pool or the cove.  Up until this trip, the sea has ALWAYS won. To top it off, where ever you stand on the property, there are sweeping views of the gorgeous Aegean Sea with delightful breezes.  Once you have checked in, there really is no need to ever venture out of their gates again.  And let’s not forget the most unbelievable, included in the price, breakfast buffet filled with so many delicious options, I get full just thinking about it.  Arrive hungry.

ROOM CHECK

1. midnight munchies:

After a full day of sun and fun, we couldn’t seem to stay up after 10pm, but I assure you, if you still have room in your belly and a midnight munchie is what you seek, you shall find.  The Kempinski will deliver.

2. roomy:

What the rooms may lack in size (if you’re not going for one of the suites), everything else more than makes up for it.

3. extra fluff:

The bedding is plush and lush, the matress a bit firm.  Then my husband found the bed and pillow menu in the drawer!  After a quick call and the housekeeping adding a 4 inch memory foam topping, we were lounging on the perfect, scrumptious bed with my favorite, organic, down-filled pillows (there are 5 options).  Was by far the BEST sleeping comforts on our entire 5 weeks long trip throughout Turkey.  It might even beat our own bed at home…

4. plushities:

perfect lighting, candle & matches, free water in the room, super, fluffy, terrycloth robes & giant towels

5. snaggables:

Their own brand of all sorts of tolietries (even for the sensitive babies) & plush, black slippers

6. super secret sexy time:

If staying in one of the smaller rooms, you’ve got the roomy, marble bathroom.

7. dockya’s:

NONE.  There are no extra fees for the kids.  Even at the delish dinner buffet at the Olives Restaurant, the kids eat for free.

to check out their website click: 

http://www.kempinski.com/en/bodrum/hotel-barbaros-bay/welcome/

Monday, August 27th, 2012

TURKEY: Hieropolis & Pamukkale

by shauna under Archives, Home, Play with 0 Comments

While spending time in Turkey, do yourself a big favor and find your way to the gorgeous, natural mineral baths & white travertines of Pamukkale and the ancient, Roman ruins of Hieropolis, which was built on top of them.  We are talking UNESCO World Heritage Site. These minerals were/are so therapeutic that the Romans built an entire city upon them and made it into one huge spa.  People have been bathing in them for thousands of years.  It is an amazing treat to walk down the ancient road of Hieropolis and imagine that even Caesar strolled through this city.  In the center of town there is the main pool, that is still there, full of the warm healing waters, and scattered through out, broken, marble columns.  To take a break from your exploits, go take a swim in this ancient pool.  Bring a mask to get a perfect view of the ancient pool treasures.  When you’ve had your fill with this pool, head over to the travertines for some more soaking.  I really recommend visiting in the later afternoon so you can experience the magic of the golden sun reflecting off the blue water and white travertines.  Then while you head out, you can enjoy the glow off of the ruins and the many rows of marble tombs.  

You will need a place to stay for the night before moving on, and really the BEST option is the Richmond  Pamukkale Thermal Hotel (http://www.richmondint.com.tr/en/).  We stayed in a giant suite that was clean and extremely comfortable.  They even left us a big, beautiful fruit bowl, water, and wine.  Breakfast and dinner were included in the very reasonable price.  For a town with very little accommodations, this is the spot to stay at.

one of the travertines…

Thursday, August 23rd, 2012

CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY: Sacred House

by shauna under Archives, Home, Sleep with 0 Comments

the town of Urgup

The region of Cappadocia is basically spread between the three little towns of Urgup, Goreme, and Urchilar.  Each town has something different to offer as a home base, yet all are within 10-15 minutes by car from each other.  Urchilar is located up on the hill with  fancy, boutique hotels (my favorite: http://www.cozynomad.com/cappadocia-turkey-museum-hotel/), fantastic views of the valley, and the least amount of tourism. Goreme has plenty of places to stay and eat and is surrounded by spectacular rock formations and the tremendous Open Air Museum.  While Urgup also has lovely places to stay and restaurants to dine in, it is a bit more mellow than Goreme with a lovely town square. It can be tricky to decide where to base yourself.  If you  decide to stay in the town of Urgup, there is a special, gorgeous 250 year old restored Greek mansion turned boutique hotel called Sacred House.  Each room offers it’s own individual, old world charm and theme, like the Fairies’ Nest or Old Chapel.  The owner has filled the place with beautiful antiques and rich tapestries.  The rooms vary in size depending upon your needs and budget, but all of the bathrooms are huge and magnificent with giant bathtubs and separate sitting areas.  I assure you that whatever you pick, you will feel like you have stepped back into time every time you walk into your room.  When you have had your fill of lounging around your room, you can venture outside to one of the many cozy, beautiful outdoor spaces.  Not to forget the wonderful, large terrace that you can visit for any occasion.  Of course, my favorite occasion was always for the delicious, special, Turkish breakfast feast that is included in the nightly rate.  The thing that really stands out with Sacred House is the impeccable and sweet service.  The small team lead by Deniz and Bekit really work hard to fulfill all of your desires.  They go the extra mile making you feel very well taken care of and special.  For us, somehow they accomplished the almost impossible task of locating the very rare (in Turkey) soy milk for my little girl’s morning breakfast.  

ROOM CHECK

1. midnight munchies:

It’s not very common to get 24hr. room service in these smaller boutique hotels in Turkey, but the service is so incredible at Sacred House, I wouldn’t be surprised if Bekit whipped together a little snackie or two if you really wanted one.  He made us a plate of yummy, customized, fancy grilled cheese sandwiches with a tomato/cucumber salad, well after the restaurant had closed.

2. roomy:

They definitely have a variety of room sizes.  The suites are enough to make your jaw drop (especially the newest one).  But even with the smaller room (we stayed in one of the deluxe rooms), somehow with the lush design, the separate entrance from outside, the balcony terrace, and the giant bathroom, the four of us were very comfortable.

3. extra fluff:

The linens and bedding are super soft and plush, but on the other hand, the mattress needed an upgrade.

4. plushities:

daily yummy snack bowl (i.e. fresh fruit, dried fruits, Turkish delights), all the lights have dimmers, Turkish hammam fixings (olive oil soap & fancy, scrub mitt), free wifi, fireplace

5. snaggables:

L’Occtaine toiletries

6. super secret sexy time:

All I can say is, even with one of the smaller rooms, all of the bathrooms are so giant and lush, they each offer plenty of opportunity and privacy.

7. the dockya’s:

You may have to negotiate the whopping 70 euros for an extra bed, but the breakfast if gratis for all.

to visit their website click: http://www.sacred-house.com/

Monday, August 20th, 2012

Turkey: BEST FRENCH FRY/ Orient Restaurant

by shauna under Archives, Eat, Home with 0 Comments

Let’s face it, life would feel a little less scrumptious without a good french fry.  After living in Amsterdam, Holland for many years and indulging in the Dutch’s favorite snack on a continuous basis, I feel like I’m a pretty good judge of a great fry.  I even make the effort to search out who makes the best.  To be honest one of the many perks of being married to my husband is his mad skills of making the perfect homemade french fry.  You combine them with my homemade sate sauce (which is a mixture of peanut butter, coconut milk, and spicy Thai sauce…maybe a touch of garlic) and as far as I am concerned there really is no competition.  But it’s a big world and somebody needs to seek these things out.  Well on our recent trip to Turkey, I think we have a contender ladies and gentleman.  This little restaurant is located in Cappadocia, Turkey in the town of Goreme.  After traveling for weeks throughout the country and oddly finding the exact same mediocre fry over and over again (I swear it seems like everyone gets the same frozen variety from the same place), we were shocked and excited to have the perfect HOMEMADE french fry arrive at our table after hours of spelunking.  Not only were they homemade, but the potatoes were grown in their very own organic garden.  Then they cooked them to what I consider perfection…crispy on the edges and soft in the middle.  They were a sweet delight.  In fact, we came back for round two before continuing our journey.  Simply delish…

 

 my husband’s variety…

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