Jody L Halsted

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Doonagore Castle in Doolin appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Don’t miss the postcards from Day 1, Day 2, Day 3,  Day 4, Day 5 and Day 6!

After all the driving hither and yon, today it was nice to stick close to our hotel and just have one place on our itinerary: the Foynes Flying Boat Museum.

Though the years of the Flying Boat were short, the amount of memorabilia of air travel’s “golden age” is impressive.  As are the interactive displays for the kids.  Even I- a nervous flier- had some of my fears put to rest by the educational “how planes fly” presentation. 

Located just above the Flying Boat Museum, as you enter the cafe, is the Foynes Maritime Museum.  A rich history was in place on the Shannon long before boats could fly- and this small museum is filled with decades of treasures and is well worth exploring.

Before you leave the museum, take time to sit in the cafe and enjoy an Irish Coffee.  It was invented here, you know.  

After our coffee and cocoa break, it was back to Fitzerald’s Woodlands House Hotel, where I had promised the girls they could (finally) swim.  The leisure club, attached to the hotel, is a members only facility, but hotel guests get use of the facilities- and the kids club- at no cost. So first the girls played in the fabulous pool…

And then they did “kids gym”, where they rode exercise bikes, worked on the machines and even learned to use a punching bag.

And while the girls were working out all their energy….

I went to the spa.  I didn’t have time for a long treatment, but completely enjoyed my pedicure (and a bit of quiet).

The girls worked up an appetite swimming and working out, so we decided to try a restaurant on property- Timmy Mac’s Irish Bistro.  I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but it wasn’t the fabulous fare with a decidedly Irish twist.  Chicken breast stuffed with black pudding,  kids meals that put other restaurants to shame, delightful desserts and this- the starter with my set menu- black pudding wrapped in crisp bacon served with an apple chutney.  Oh My Good.

It was a fabulous way to spend our final day at this fabulous Adare hotel.

Ireland with Kids is thrilled to be working with IrishTourism.com during our trip.  Our hotels and car rental were booked by IrishTourism.com and our itinerary was planned using their very thorough suggested itinerary guide.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Postcard From Ireland : May 20, 2013 appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Don’t miss the postcards from Day 1, Day 2, Day 3,  Day 4 and Day 5!

Waking up in our lovely suite at Fitzgrald’s Woodland’s House Hotel, I can honestly say that my first instinct was to lay in bed and hope someone would bring me breakfast (and from what I have experienced at this hotel, if I had only asked it likely would have happened).  As it was, we got ourselves prepared and made our way through the hotel to the restaurant where a large buffet was waiting.  Everything you need for the Full Irish- plus tea, coffee, juices and breads- prepare you for a day exploring what Western Ireland has on offer.

Today our schedule included something that has been on my “Ireland Bucket List” for a few years- a Cliffs of Moher cruise.

The ocean was calm- which means the boat rocked to and fro as it sliced through the waves blowing inland, with only a few larger waves that sent you sliding across your seat.  We braved the wind and chill, sitting outside on the Doolin2Aran Ferry that took us from Doolin Harbour to the base of the cliffs.

We had the great fortune to be riding the ferry with Kathryn from the Cliffs Of Moher Visitor Center who pointed out fun sights – like the Harry Potter Cave- and interesting phenomena- like a wave that only appears in perfect meteorological conditions and draws surfers from around the world.  She even told a tale about a dinner party held by Cornelius O’Brien (who build O’Brien’s Tower at the top of the cliffs).  Apparently “Corny” would have dinner parties on the limestone ledge at the edge of the cliffs back in the late 1800′s.  With music and such, it was quite the event.  Until, at one evening, the fiddler had been sneaking a bit too much of the Irish…  and played himself right off the edge of the cliff.

Heading back to Doolin, I also caught a glimpse of one of my favorite Irish Castles, Doonagore.

After stopping for lunch, we made our way inland to Craggaunowen, a “Living Past” experience that covers Irish history from the 4th century through 1550.  As you travel through time, you’ll find costumed interpreters along the way to help you understand Ireland’s rich history.

As we wandered the wooded paths from site to site, the girls had a terrific time exploring.  Yes, I let my girls enter the souterrain (underground passage).  And no, I didn’t follow them.

Caelan, ever watchful of things below everyone else’s line of sight, delighted over finding this sweet mushroom growing under a tree.

And there may have been squealing over the feral piglets…

After much cooing at the baby piglets and the sweet baby goats in a field near the parking lot, we left Craggaunowen at closing time.  We made a quick stop to visit friends in Limerick City, then it was back to the hotel…  Where we found our room had been broken in to…  

 …  by faeries with lots of pixie dust!  Oh, what an exciting way to end the day!

Ireland with Kids is thrilled to be working with IrishTourism.com during our trip.  Our hotels and car rental were booked by IrishTourism.com and our itinerary was planned using their very thorough suggested itinerary guide.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Postcard from Ireland : May 19, 2013 appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Don’t miss the postcards from Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, and Day 4!

Oh how I wish we had another day in Dingle!  While we saw all the “must see” attractions, I would have dearly loved another day to slowly wander the town and enjoy a pub or two.

But time was not on my side and we had reservations for the evening at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. 

Before I continue, I want to make one thing clear…  The amount of driving I am doing between stops and attractions of this trip is not what I recommend for families traveling in Ireland.  Do as I say, not as I do: Spend more time doing and less time driving.

Because we came onto the Dingle Peninsula from Killarney, we missed the dramatic entrance the Connor Pass provides.  So we departed the peninsula by that route.

We weren’t far down the mountain before I had to stop and get photos and video of the thick clouds as they moved over the mountain, forming and rolling as they reached the summit, completely blocking the highest points from view.

We drove straight through to Adare, often called the most charming village in Ireland.  Before finding our hotel, we stopped for tea at what may be the most charming tea shop in Ireland: the Olde World Tea Room at Adare’s Old Creamery.

Our tea and treats were divine.  But I’m going to keep in mind that, with 24 hour notice, you can reserve a complete afternoon tea.

After a short stroll along Adare’s streets, we made our way to our hotel, Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel, just outside the village.  As we entered our room, I stopped in my tracks.  While I knew it would be nice, I was unprepared for the sheer size and “grand-ness” that waited inside the door.

Such a stunning room!  After a bit of relaxating, we were off for our evening activity- Traditional Irish Night at Bunratty Castle.  Filled with music, dance and storytelling, the evening was filled with fun and laughter- and traditional Irish food!

Our drive back to the hotel was filled with adventure.  I’m pretty sure the faeries were having a joke on me as the signs I was following weren’t leading where I thought they should.  Those charming Irish roads- narrow, winding and lined with hedgerows- take on an entirely different feeling in the dark!

Ireland with Kids is thrilled to be working with IrishTourism.com during our trip.  Our hotels and car rental were booked by IrishTourism.com and our itinerary was planned using their very thorough suggested itinerary guide.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Postcard from Ireland : May 18, 2013 appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Enjoy our adventures from Day 1, Day 2 & Day 3 before reading the latest installment.

We arrived in Dingle last night tired from the long drive and later than I had planned, so we “hit the ground running” today.

The Dingle Skellig Hotel has a breakfast buffet with plenty of items on it- from the fixin’s for a “full Irish” to lighter fare like fruit & yogurt, everyone will find something they will enjoy.

Well fortified, we decided to walk into town.  Destination:  Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium.  (One of the best things about Dingle- everything within town is a 5 minute walk.) 

From the aquarium we went to visit Dingle’s most famous resident:  Fungi (fun-gee).  For 30 years Fungi has lived in Dingle Bay.  He loves to entertain visitors and seems to play with the boats, delighting visitors as he races alongside them, leaping from the waves, smiling with mischief.

The girls loved Fungi- and so did I.  I know we were all smiles after our hour-long Dingle Dolphin Boat Tour.

After leaving Fungi, we had just enough time to enjoy the very best ice cream in all of Ireland at Murphy’s.  I highly recommend the Brown Bread- the caramelize the bread.  Amazing… 

Then we went back to the aquarium for the penguin feeding!

We finished our day with a drive along Slea Head Drive- circling the Dingle Peninsula.  It is one of my favorite drives in the southwest part of Ireland, and we had a beautiful, clear day for it.

We made a few stops at beaches we found at the bottom of cliffs that could only be reached by narrow winding roads.  We climbed steep hills for amazing views out to the Blasket Islands.  And we visited the Gallarus Oratory, an 8th century Christian Church (that means it’s 1200 years old!) built of stone, but no mortar.  It’s completely watertight and one of Ireland’s most famous buildings.

We’ve had a bad problem this trip of eating breakfast and not sitting down again to eat until dinner.  So we had a bit of a splurge and included dessert with dinner.  Mostly because the menu listed Sticky Toffee Pudding.  It was delish!

Though we had done a fair bit of walking already, the girls and I set out to Hussey’s Folly, about 2km from the hotel.  We varied our walk between the beach and the path above, with a bit of rock climbing thrown in.

As we walked back to the hotel, a storm was rolling onto the peninsula from the ocean.  After such a long, busy day, our beds at the Dingle Skellig welcomed us as the rain began to fall.

Ireland with Kids is thrilled to be working with IrishTourism.com during our trip.  Our hotels and car rental were booked by IrishTourism.com and our itinerary was planned using their very thorough suggested itinerary guide.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Postcard from Ireland : May 17, 2013 appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Enjoy the postcards from Day 1 and Day 2 before reading today’s installment.

We didn’t have anything officially planned for today, but we couldn’t leave Kilkenny without at least visiting Kilkenny Castle.  Tours within the castle seem to have changed since we last visited in 2008; we will have to return to view the beautiful rooms that only ticket holders can see.

As it was, we strolled the grounds, stopping at fun woodland spots- like this tree stump.

This is a view of the castle from across the rear garden.

Just across from the castle, housed in what were the stables, is the Kilkenny Design Centre.  Filled with shops and restaurants, it’s a perfect place to satisfy your need for souvenirs, gifts and sweets!

I’m just going to say that it was a good thing we grabbed a snack before heading to Dingle, because the drive was longer than I thought it would be.  I really only thought it would take 2 1/2, maybe 3, hours.  It took us over 4 hours.  Poor planning on my part.  

We had some excitement along the narrow, winding N72 as the rain moved through in waves, some a bit heavy.  But the sun was out to greet us as we crossed onto the Dingle Peninsula.

We celebrated with a stop at Inch beach to search for shells before arriving at the lovely Dingle Skellig Hotel.  With a room overlooking Dingle Bay and a welcoming pub to nourish our hungry bodies, we settled into our room for the night.

Ireland with Kids is thrilled to be working with IrishTourism.com during our trip.  Our hotels and car rental were booked by IrishTourism.com and our itinerary was planned using their very thorough suggested itinerary guide.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Postcard from Ireland : May 16, 2013 appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Many thanks to Bob & Jean for this stunning photograph.  Be sure to read more about their visit to Glendalough and view more of their incredible images.  Bob and Jean are both award winning photographers, so I’m sure you’ll want to dig a bit deeper into their site!

Do you have a photo or story from Ireland?  I would love to share it!

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Serene, Beautiful Glendalough appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

You can read the postcard from Day 1 here.

Attempting to get us on “Ireland time”, I woke my sleepy girls at 9am for breakfast at the Hotel Kilkenny, which was included with our stay.  The cold buffet was enough for the girls, while my cousin & I enjoyed the Full Irish Breakfast, which kept us going until nearly 6pm!

After eating, we were off…  to visit the nearby Nicholas Mosse Pottery Studio.  I first took notice of Nicholas Mosse pottery during our stay last year and knew the studio & store would be on our itinerary as it is just south of Kilkenny.  While I did buy a little something for myself (and a gift or my Grandmother), I managed to keep myself from buying a couple of showstopping pieces- which I know my husband is very thankful for (at €550 each I would have had some explaining to do- but aren’t they amazing?)

Then we headed down the road to a site that has only been open to the public for 2 years- Jerpoint Park; the lost town.  The story of the lost town of Newtown Jerpoint is amazing, but before you even get to the tour,  join Maeve and Joe  in their home for tea and scones- and some of the fascinating history of the house and land.

All tours of Jerpoint Park are lead by Joe- it is really the only way to really “see” the history of the town.  It’s an incredibly informative tour that takes you across acres of land and hundreds of years.  

Of course, many come to “see” the burial place of St. Nicholas…  Which is a pretty amazing story in itself…

After spending more time than we planned at Jerpoint Park , we hopped onto the M9 to Waterford for a tour of the Medieval Museum and the Bishop’s House.

We had to cut our museum viewing short so we could rush next door and catch the last tour at the Bishop’s Palace.  With the costumed actors (the housekeeper and butler) sharing stories- and a lovely ghost popping in every now and then- the tour kept the girls entertained and engaged.  Very fun!

Of course, we couldn’t be so close to Waterford Crystal (right across the street) and not stop in for a few minutes.

Our busy day ended with a tour of some of the stunning vistas of County Kilkenny from Joe at Jerpoint Park.  I was especially taken by this cross at the 13th century Duiske Abbey (founded by William Marshall in 1204).  The words carved below are in Irish.

Until tomorrow!

Ireland with Kids is thrilled to be working with IrishTourism.com during our trip.  Our hotels and car rental were booked by IrishTourism.com and our itinerary was planned using their very thorough suggested itinerary guide.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Postcard from Ireland: May 15, 2013 appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Hello from Ireland!

We landed early this morning- about 6:30am!  After a quick clothing change and refresher in the bathroom at Dublin airport, we made our way through customs, grabbed our luggage and got our rental car.

Then we were off to Kildare- destination Irish National Stud and Japanese Garden.

After such a long flight it was lovely to just be out strolling the grounds.  The new foals were so much fun to see as they frolicked in the pastures.  And the girls LOVED the Japanese garden.  

Then we were off to County Wicklow and the Chocolate Garden.

We were lucky enough to visit on a day when the shop was hosting a hands-on workshop.  Not only did we learn about chocolate- and try loads of the tasty treat- but we also got to make our own chocolate bears to take home.  Bonus: we can re-use the molds at home!

The Chocolate Garden of Ireland also owns Tipperary Ice Cream and they hand-make their gourmet flavors on site.  I tried the Irish Cream and Brown Bread flavor.  So yummy!

Sugared up, we began our trek to Kilkenny and rest.  But a wrong turn- and it’s correction- took us past the Ring of Rath Hill Top Fort…  and we had to stop to explore.  I’m so glad we did- it was amazing!  An outer ring of raised earth was followed by a higher ring of earth and stone, followed by an inner ring of stone.  And, in the very center, a tiny ring, maybe a foot in circumference.  Amazing.  

And then, it was on to the Hotel Kilkenny.  After leaving the US approximately 18 hours before we were, as our server put it, wrecked.  We enjoyed dinner in the PURE Bar on property- a lovely Asian fusion- and now it’s time to collapse in bed (after showers to wash off the travel).

Slán!

Ireland with Kids is thrilled to be working with IrishTourism.com during our trip.  Our hotels and car rental were booked by IrishTourism.com and our itinerary was planned using their very thorough suggested itinerary guide.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Postcard from Ireland: May 14, 2013 appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Here’s a great way to learn some more about some familiar Irish legends and discover some new ones – and it’s absolutely free, no strings attached.

© 2013, Jody Halsted. All rights reserved.

The post Ireland: A Gathering of Stories Free eBook appeared first on Ireland With Kids - Tips to Help You Plan Your Ireland Family Vacation.

Austin is the state capital of Texas with many attractions such as the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential library and the University of Texas. Austin is also where you can find a wonderful sanctuary committed to preserving 7,000 native plants from North America. Sitting on 279 acres of gardens, meadows, and hiking trails there are also nearly 80 acres of research plots. Along the grounds there is a cultivated wildflower meadow and garden which has 12 acres of about 650 species of native Texas plants. The three gardens specifically emphasize native plants and is part of the University of Texas system.

Actress Helen Hayes and former first lady, Lady Bird Johnson founded this organization in 1982 as the National Wildflower Research Center and now named the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. In 2006, the Center became an Organized Research Unit of the University of Texas at Austin. They also keep an extensive database of these species in the Native Plant Information Network. There are currently about one in five plant species in the United States that is in danger of extinction. Texas, which has about one fourth of the plant biodiversity nationally, has 23 endangered and five threatened plant species.

Location and General Information

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is located on 4801 La Crosse Avenue, Austin, Texas 78739 off of Highway 1.

Admission is as follows:

$9 for adults

$7 for seniors 65 years and older and students 13 years and older

$3 for children

Free for members and children under 4 years of age.

Memberships start at $45 and include many benefits such as reciprocal admission to 300 gardens across the country.

The Visitor’s Gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day with extended hours until 8 p.m. Thursdays. Their full service café called the Wildflower Café which includes drinks, coffee, sandwiches and ice cream. The hours for the Wildflower Café are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. There is also a gift shop that is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and  oon to 5 p.m. Sunday

The Gardens at  Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

The site lets you know in advance which flowers are in bloom. Since plants and flowers are seasonal you will get to see native plants in full bloom depending upon the season. Check out What’s In Bloom for current flower blooms. Each garden area or segment represents a different land type. For instance there are meadows, a wetland pond, woodlands, hill country stream, homeowner inspiration garden, butterfly garden, dry creek bed, the West Texas Mountain collection and more.

Buildings and Structures

Another impressive feature about the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center are the different architectural features and buildings. After you pay admission you will wind your way through and aqueduct system. The aqueduct is one of several water features that harvests water for the 70,000-gallon rainwater collection system. In the center next to the courtyard you will also see the observation tower that gives a bird’s eye view of the gardens. My children call it the castle, but it has a winding staircase and is also wheelchair/stroller friendly. It’s fashioned after watch towers of the Spanish Missions, it’s also used as a 10,000 gallon cistern. You will also see a visitor’s gallery and an auditorium at the center.

Research and Education

One of the things you will find at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is that adults and kids get an opportunity to learn about sustainable living and the native plants and insects. They center conducts research on native plant conservation and the benefits of wildflowers and other native plants in settings such as green roofs and highway roadsides. They also provide assistance for designing buildings and landscapes such as at the George W. Bush Presidential Center. Since they are part of the University of Texas system, they teach educators about connecting audiences to nature. Nationally, they have reached thousands of children from Alaska to Florida as the trainers of educators in First Bloom, a project of the National Park Foundation to connect urban children to national parks.

Online Interaction

There is a lot of activity going on in social media for the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Including all of their social media sites you can see instructional Youtube Videos about planting as well as podcasts about sustainable living. All of this is available in Interaction.

Family Visitor Insider

There’s plenty for families to take in at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. With acres of gardens, kids can interact in activities and take in the sights of all of the plants and native habitats. Kids will love the little insect house and the butterfly gardens. There is a lot to explore and see on the paths. Benches periodically line the trails and kids will see a variety of insects and birds as they make their way through each garden. Get the audio tour via iphone or download transcripts from this site for each garden.

Heather Buen is a freelance writer and blogger at Dallas Single Mom and for Dallas Culture and Events at Examiner.com. She is a mom of three and loves traveling about Texas and sharing her adventures on single parent travel.

The post The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

To our family, travel isn’t just about fun.  We try to use it to learn more about our wonderful world and the people and creatures inhabiting it.  During most of our vacations, we try to find a subject each of our children are interested in and find a way to work it into our itinerary.  Sometimes it is even necessary to pick our vacation destinations based on an interest, for instance choosing Hawaii to view the volcanoes or Galveston to find out more about sea turtles.

If you have a family member with an interest in plants, you will find a hidden gem in Fort Worth, Texas that is sure to feed their curiosity.  While you may already know about the city’s botanic gardens you probably are unaware of their neighbor. Right next door, you can find The Botanic Research Institute of Texas (or BRIT).

The BRIT is housed in a building designed around sustainable practices.  You can view their solar paneled roof or their restored prairie habitat. Their whole building is full of innovations in green architectural design.  Self-guided tours are free, but guided tours may be arranged for a small fee.

But the real draw of the BRIT is their dedication to public education.  They built this institute around a large collection of botanical books in their library and an impressive herbarium. The herbarium holds around one million plant specimens.  Unlike most herbariums opened only for researchers, the BRIT is open to the public.  You can make an appointment to use the herbarium, and an employee will help you.  This would be great for your kids that are serious botanists in training.

If you are hoping to spark a plant interest in your family, the BRIT is still a great place to visit.  Take some time to visit their rotating exhibits, before heading over to the beautiful Fort Worth Botanic Gardens.  Currently, they are showcasing native Texas plants.  They also frequently have education sessions on Saturdays that we’ve found interesting for the whole family.   Check their website at BRIT.org to find out what exhibits and education opportunities are present during the time of your visit.

Amy Moore is a family travel blogger and general manager at Everything-Everywhere.com.  

The post The Botanic Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) in Fort Worth appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

It’s very easy to think of Fort Worth as a place for cowboys, so it’s a good bet that many tourists don’t realize the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is just minutes from the zoo and within it an award winning Japanese Garden exists.

Peace and Tranquility at the Japanese Garden in Fort Worth

If I am remembering the last Kung Fu Panda movie correctly, Po was searching for inner peace.  I know there are times during our family travel that I find myself searching for the same thing.  At the Japanese Garden, I found it.

After entering the main gate you can feel stress begin to melt away.  By design, the strolling paths are a place of serenity, with plenty of places to stop and just absorb the beauty that surrounds you.

Before you think that bringing kids into such a serene environment will only ruin the calming nature of the garden, let me tell you that gardens have the same effect on children as they do on adults.

It’s a place to slow down…

To explore…

And to be amazed by nature.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Japanese Garden is only one of the gardens withing the Fort Worth Botanic Garden.  

Classic European elegance and grandeur is the hallmark of the Lower Rose Garden.

The historic Oval Rose Garden will enchant you with its classic design, charming gazebo, and, of course, hundreds of roses.

Curving paths lead you through a dramatic series of thought-provoking color schemes and garden themes in the Fuller Garden.

From the frothy waterfall framed with sparkling floral color to the soothing brook laden with ferns, the Perennial Garden has something for everyone.

Designed to delight your nose and renew your sense of wonder, the Fragrance Garden features dozens of scented plants for your enjoyment.

If you seek the best in specialty plants and new varieties, the Trial Garden is your destination.

A favorite of visitors who seek quiet contemplation, the Four Seasons provides the excitement of color and botanical hybridization in a setting that allows relaxed reflection of the surroundings.

The Texas Native Forest Boardwalk is a living outdoor classroom—an elevated boardwalk with viewing platforms and educational features that also acts as a pathway connecting major features of the Botanic Garden.

Explore the winding paths to discover a kaleidoscope of orchids, bromeliads and exotic trees from around the world in the 10,000 square foot Conservatory.

A special thank to the Fort Worth CVB for showing me this beautiful, tranquil spot in their amazing city!

For more photos of family travel ideas in Fort Worth, visit my Fort Worth Texas set on Flickr or type “Fort Worth” in the search bar at the right.

The post The Japanese Garden in Fort Worth appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

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Some people are born to camp and have nothing but enthusiasm for nights under the stars and in their tents. But what happens when you and your kids love the great outdoors but your partner in life doesn’t? The answer – as with many things in life – is to compromise!

Although your husband or wife may draw the line at sleeping in a tent, there are some fantastic holiday parks that you can choose to stay at now. The UK has a great selection of holiday parks that offer both tenting and caravanning pitches but also mobile homes and holiday lodges for rent. From Norfolk caravan parks to Scottish Highland and Cornish coastal campsites, the choice throughout the country is superb. And nine times out of ten, the holiday parks are set in beautiful, idyllic settings that you couldn’t find private holiday accommodation in.

Mobile homes are static caravans – and holiday parks generally only keep models that are seven years or less on their sites, so they’re always pretty modern and well-maintained. They have all that you’d expect – bedrooms, a shower room and fitted kitchenettes. However, holiday lodges are one step up, with a real home away from home feeling – a decent living space and a full-sized kitchen. So you can enjoy the benefits of being on a holiday park without any of the downsides – having to find your way to the communal toilets by torchlight, for example!

The great thing about being on a campsite holiday though, is the fun the kids will undoubtedly have. There’s no need to be quiet at mealtimes, they have acres of safe and secure outside space to play in, and access to great facilities like swimming pools and kids’ clubs. And of course, there will be entertainment on tap in the form of plenty of other families with kids staying on the same site.

If anyone in your family can’t cope with the idea of real camping, holiday lodges are a great alternative, and gives the whole family the best of both worlds for family holiday fun!

The post A camping holiday without the tent appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

With as often as my family visits Ireland, we’ve learned a thing or two about packing for and dealing with wet weather.  I was thrilled to be interviewed for this article by Colleen Lanin for Today (Show) Travel.

Creator of the Ireland with Kids website, Jody Halsted, says, “There is a saying in Ireland that goes, If the Irish waited on the weather they would be forever waiting.” When traveling somewhere that gets a lot of rain, like Ireland, Halsted advises, “The best thing you can do is just realize that you will likely have some rainy days and pack for them. Pack a weather resistant jacket and shoes, extra socks and an umbrella that will condense down to pocket size.”

Click to continue reading Make the most of a rainy family vacation on Today Travel.

And check out Ireland With Kids for my favorite rain gear for travel (to Ireland or anywhere else).

The post Handling Rainy Weather During Your Family Vacation appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

There’s a feeling you get when you walk into Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, NJ. It’s a feeling of possibility. The spacious layout and hands-on exhibits draw you in to the wonder of science and experimentation, and the inspiring views of the New York City skyline remind you of freedom at every window.

My family has enjoyed Liberty Science Center (LSC) for years. Our visit last week started with the Skyscraper! exhibit, where we saw artifacts from 9/11 and learned how skyscrapers are built. The little ones (and not so little ones!) had fun building their own skyscrapers, while the more adventurous in our group walked a narrow steel girder 18 feet above ground, just like the ironworkers!

Next we experienced 100 mph hurricane-force wind and rain while learning how engineers test how buildings behave in high winds. We got suited up in ponchos and goggles and sat in a wind tunnel. The wind and rain blew through the center and we were able to test the force with our hands – we would have been blown over if we’d stood up!

 LSC, like most science centers, hosts traveling exhibits. From now until mid-May 2013, you and your kids can be immersed in the world of Avatar. With interactive installations and original props from the movie, you’ll learn how this amazing film was created using groundbreaking animation technology. My kids loved playing the games and learning the Na’vi language. My daughter’s favorite activity was creating her own plant.

For the younger set, there’s the Curious George exhibit (also there until mid-May). Little fans of the funny monkey will delight in getting up close and personal with familiar settings from the show. They’ll explore the produce stand, city park, farm, space rocket slide, and mini golf – all while learning a bit about math, science and engineering.

After a bite to eat at the cafe, the kids visited the Energy Quest and Got Power? exhibits where they were able to experiment with various ways to make things go. From wind to tidal and solar to muscle, we used power to race cars, light up bulbs, move fans and spin wheels. My kids couldn’t get enough of these exhibits.

Another spot I couldn’t pull them away from was the Wonder Why exhibit. You’ll want to grab a seat and relax while the kids climb the rock wall, test their reaction time, make a 6-foot soap bubble, balance a beach ball on a stream of air, and more. I couldn’t get them to move on until I mentioned the Touch Tunnel…

The Touch Tunnel is an 80-foot long, crawl-through pitch-black maze that has been the hands-down favorite at LSC for years. I tried it myself, and it’s an eye-opening experience feeling your way through complete and utter darkness. I think my kids crawled through seven times in a row. Thankfully, it wasn’t very crowded that day and we didn’t have to wait in lines!

Finally we made our way to the Infection Connection, where the kids were once again enthralled. This time it was the sneeze display that blew them away. Motion activated, this display sends out a puff of air and water, simulating a sneeze, whenever anyone gets within a few feet. I thought it was kinda’ gross, but the kids were belly-laughing and loving it, walking by again and again… and again!

And there’s even more to enjoy at LSC. There are live demos and lab experiences (reservations taken on a first-come, first-served basis), IMAX movies, story time, animal encounters, and an outdoor Wildlife Challenge (weather permitting).

Something else to love about LSC? Every window affords gorgeous views of the New York City skyline. You can see the Empire State Building, the Freedom Tower, and the Statue of Liberty and there’s an observation deck that is not to be missed.

If you’re in the NY/NJ area, spend a day at Liberty Science Center. You and your family will leave feeling inspired by a world of possibilities.

The post A World of Possibilities for All Ages at Liberty Science Center appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

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Looking to visit California in the near future? Planning a vacation to sunny California can be the highlight of any family’s year, well that is, other than the trip itself. Making sure you are able to take the perfect vacation includes a lot of details; from what you will do once you get there, where you will stay, the length of the trip, how you will travel and of course how you will afford the getaway in the first place. Here are some helpful hints in insure you have the best vacation possible.

1. Start saving as soon as possible. By cutting down your expenses you will have more freedom for days filled with nothing but bliss. Start by searching the web for deals on all of your daily needs. Typing in a couple of words such as daily savings or coupons your browser will present you a number of deals. Whether you are saving by eating family meals at home or you find Hancock Fabrics coupons to help you save as you gather your trip essentials, every penny you don’t spend on your daily life can go toward the trip to sunny California this summer.
2. Find a hotel that suits your needs. Free continental breakfast is important for travel with family, as if free wifi and a swimming pool.   Another important item?  The disatnace between the hotel and your daily activities.
3. Free continental breakfast will help you to save, but finding a local grocery store that is conveniently located will lower the amount you spend dining out. Buy easy things that you can make quickly. This will not only save you money, but it will give you more time to explore all that your destination has to offer.
4. Figure out your travel arrangements. Will it be cheaper to drive or fly? If flying is your best bet, it is important to find the best deals. Look for discounted rates. You can often find package deals that include your travel and stay all for one low rate.
5. Arrange your transportation from the airport to your hotel. LAX airport shuttle information will present you with options and rates that you will then be able to compare to other alternatives.  Other airports offer similar assistance.

Now that you know where you are going and how you are getting there, the fun really begins. By planning your vacation – but leaving room for spur of the moment activities- you will be able to maximize your fun and savings. Every day doesn’t have to be a theme park; plan out time for the free activities such as the beach.

California offers many travel destinations, so finding the perfect spot for your family can take a little bit of research. Regardless if you choose to go to Hollywood to walk amongst the stars or you decide on a more secluded destination, there are endless options and one is sure to be perfect for your family.

Taking a vacation is good for the soul and all too often we miss out on the relaxing times because we fear the financial burden involved. It doesn’t have to be this way. Taking control of your daily routine will allow you the freedom to play from time to time. It’s really all about priorities. And after a while you don’t miss what you’ve cut from your life. Trust me- we’ve been living without cable, movie theaters, credit cards and on a tight budget since 2008.  

The post Destination: California appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

When people think of visiting Ireland it is for the dramatic landscapes and castles.  If history is considered, it has more to do with ruins than science.  Few people realize how many scientific discoveries were made in Ireland… many of them at Birr Castle in County Offaly.

For nearly a century the Great Telescope at Birr Castle was the largest in the world

Housed in the estates converted stables is Ireland’s Historic Science Centre.  Galleries are spread throughout the rooms, sharing the achievements of scientists and engineers closely associated with Birr over the past 2 centuries; most of whom were part of the family of the Earls of Rosse.  You’ll learn about the design, creation and discoveries of the Great Telescope- which still stands on the grounds; view the pioneering photography of  Mary Countess of Rosse- as well as her cameras;  and learn about Sir Charles Parsons who invented the steam turbine.  

After all that science, it’s almost relaxing to walk into the final galleries which focus on the family’s horticultural pursuits, including plants collected from around the world and the amazing gardens.

Click to continue reading Birr Castle Demense- Ireland’s “Green Jewel” at Ireland With Kids

Looking for more places to visit in Ireland?

The post Ireland’s Historic Science Centre at Birr Castle in Ireland appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

What National Parks do you have on your bucket list?  Yellowstone?  The Grand Canyon?  Maybe Arches?  All amazing family travel destinations.

Did you know that there are 59 National Parks across the US?  With parks across the country, it’s easy to find a great National Park to visit for a weekend or an extended family vacation.

6 National Parks You Probably Haven’t Visited

Buffalo in Theodore Roosevelt Park. Photo credit: LoyalDefender2004 on Flickr

...these six lesser-known national treasures can be blissfully uncrowded while still delivering outstanding natural landscapes and wildlife viewing.

For children, a park visit can be extra special. Most of our national parks offer a free Junior Ranger program that typically includes a booklet of questions and scavenger hunt-like activities. Once tasks are completed, each kid receives a Junior Ranger certificate and badge. Can’t make it to a national park this summer? Some parks will even let kids earn a Junior Ranger badge online.

Click to continue reading the article 6 Great National Parks You’ve Never Visited at MiniTime.

See other National Parks articles here at Family Rambling.

The post National Parks You Should Visit appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

Family travel isn’t travel for travel’s sake, but instead travel to expand the understanding and awareness of the people who will, one day, run the world.  For that reason, family friendly museums are high on our list of places to visit.  Of course the kids love them- they are fun!  But a little “sneaky education” never hurts!  Guest author Lesli Peterson takes us to her son’s favorite museum in this post.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History, known affectionately in Atlanta as ‘The Dinosaur Museum’, is an interactive experience that proves science really is cool. Region-specific, life-size dinosaur statues greet you as you walk to the museum from the parking lot. Once inside, the largest plant-eating dinosaur that roamed the planet welcomes visitors, towering three stories tall in the Great Hall of the museum. Yes, this is indeed a ‘dinosaur museum.’

Aside from the relics of ancient past, Fernbank offers an IMAX theater, an interactive science exhibit, and a naturalist center highlighting Fernbank’s work in finding ruins from DeSoto’s mission in Georgia. There is ‘A Walk Through Time in Georgia’ which introduces visitors to plant and animal life over the various terrains in the state. There is a shell gallery, a rose garden, and an expansive forest for which this museum gets its name. However, when my four-year old exclaims his desire to visit Fernbank, I know he means that it’s time to head to NatureQuest.

NatureQuest is a child-friendly, highly interactive experiential learning exhibit that will amaze you (to say the least). Six years in the making, this environment was designed by the Fernbank Education team in conjunction with a host of designers from the land of Mickey and Donald. Children can immerse themselves in over 100 different interactive encounters across six habitats.

Imagine a large play area with a grand tree in which to climb, bridges, tunnels and waterscapes. There are live animal encounters in each habitat, and learning experiences tucked in every nook and cranny. In the center is the clubhouse which connects all the pieces together – there is even a habitat under the clubhouse.

My son loves NatureQuest because it’s fun. Parents and teachers appreciate that it is an educational immersion  as well. Should you make your way to Georgia, come visit Fernbank. Gaze at the dinosaurs, walk through the forest, see Desoto’s treasures, but plan to spend several hours exploring nature in a new and exciting way at NatureQuest.

About the Author:  Lesli Peterson is co-founder and editor at Expedition Mom, a North American family-travel website specializing in experiential “KNOW before you go” Adventure Guides and City Itineraries, with a Southern twist.

Save over 40% on admission to Atlanta’s 5 best attractions- including the Fernbank Museum!  

The post Visiting The Dinosaur Museum in Atlanta appeared first on Family Travel Tips How to Travel with Kids Family Rambling.

My family and I are currently touring Ireland, so time (and really strong internet connections) are limited. Until I return to the US, I wanted to share a few places you can find great Ireland travel deals.

For tour deals these are great places to begin:

• Great Value Vacations
• Aer Lingus Vacation Store
• TravelZoo (you need to register to get deals sent to you)
• Another great way to search is to use ‘Google Alerts” and set searches for Ireland Travel Deals and other key words.

For deals on activities and dining, I personally use Groupon and Living Social to find deals local to where I will be in Ireland.  Yes, you can buy these deals if you live outside Ireland!

And if you plan to visit the National Stud in Kildare (and I do recommend it) be sure to print this page to save on your admission!

The best deals for a family vacation in Ireland. Culled from around the internet as well as my own sources.

Subscribe to get the best Ireland Travel Deals delivered to your inbox free!

Featured: Coastal Getaway in Dramatic Donegal €92.00

Aptly named after its coastal sightlines, Seaview Hotel Gweedore laps up the panorama of the sea, and is located just a 10-minute descent to the sandy shores themselves.

Enjoy a two-night stay family-run hotel approximately 10 minutes’ walk from the beach.  Deal includes: TV, Wi-Fi, and hospitality tray; Full Irish breakfast each morning; Bottle of house wine; Access to leisure facilities in the adjacent Ostan Gweedore Hotel including swimming pool.

Children can stay in room for a supplement, subject to availability; enquire on booking.  Get this Donegal getaway!

Travel Deals:

5* Resort Vacation at Adare Manor. Includes air. From $999

The Villas at Adare Monor are a terrific central location for all the beauty Ireland’s “Sunny Southwest” has to offer!  Easy day trips include Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, the Cliffs of Moher, Lough Gur and Killarney.

Package includes: Roundtrip airfare; Manual shift full-size car rental for duration; 6 nights private 3 bedroom villa – Adare Manor Resort.  AerLingus Vacations

Ireland in the Fall. 5* vacation includes air, hotels & car rental. From $1199

Package includes:  Roundtrip economy airfare; Manual shift economy car rental for duration; 1 night Heritage Resort (5-star), County Laois; 2 nights Glenlo Abbey Hotel (5-star), Galway; 2 nights Muckross Park Hotel (5-star), Killarney, County Kerry (breakfast included); 1 night Four Seasons Hotel (5-star), Dublin; All local taxes, hotel service charges, carrier and government taxes/fees/facility charges on airfare.  Great Value Vacations

Ireland Fly & Drive from $1199.  Includes air, car & luxury hotel stays

Package includes roundtrip economy airfare; manual shift car rental; 1 night Heritage Resort (5-star), Co Laois; 2 nights Actons Hotel (4-star), Kinsale ; 2 nights Clayton Hotel (4-star), Galway (breakfast included); 1 night Croke Park Hotel (4-star), Dublin (breakfast included)   AerLingus Vacations

The best deals for a family vacation in Ireland. Culled from around the internet as well as my own sources.

Subscribe to get the best Ireland Travel Deals delivered to your inbox free!

Featured: Coastal Getaway in Dramatic Donegal €92.00

Aptly named after its coastal sightlines, Seaview Hotel Gweedore laps up the panorama of the sea, and is located just a 10-minute descent to the sandy shores themselves.

Enjoy a two-night stay family-run hotel approximately 10 minutes’ walk from the beach.  Deal includes: TV, Wi-Fi, and hospitality tray; Full Irish breakfast each morning; Bottle of house wine; Access to leisure facilities in the adjacent Ostan Gweedore Hotel including swimming pool.

Children can stay in room for a supplement, subject to availability; enquire on booking.  Get this Donegal getaway!

Travel Deals:

5* Resort Vacation at Adare Manor. Includes air. From $999

The Villas at Adare Monor are a terrific central location for all the beauty Ireland’s “Sunny Southwest” has to offer!  Easy day trips include Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, the Cliffs of Moher, Lough Gur and Killarney.

Package includes: Roundtrip airfare; Manual shift full-size car rental for duration; 6 nights private 3 bedroom villa – Adare Manor Resort.  AerLingus Vacations

Ireland in the Fall. 5* vacation includes air, hotels & car rental. From $1199

Package includes:  Roundtrip economy airfare; Manual shift economy car rental for duration; 1 night Heritage Resort (5-star), County Laois; 2 nights Glenlo Abbey Hotel (5-star), Galway; 2 nights Muckross Park Hotel (5-star), Killarney, County Kerry (breakfast included); 1 night Four Seasons Hotel (5-star), Dublin; All local taxes, hotel service charges, carrier and government taxes/fees/facility charges on airfare.  Great Value Vacations

Ireland Fly & Drive from $1199.  Includes air, car & luxury hotel stays

Package includes roundtrip economy airfare; manual shift car rental; 1 night Heritage Resort (5-star), Co Laois; 2 nights Actons Hotel (4-star), Kinsale ; 2 nights Clayton Hotel (4-star), Galway (breakfast included); 1 night Croke Park Hotel (4-star), Dublin (breakfast included)   AerLingus Vacations