What to Pack for your kids on an Alaskan Cruise

Items to bring to Alaska to enhance your kids’ overall experience

Getting ready for upcoming Alaskan cruise with your kids this summer?  We will be sailing to Alaska for the second time in two weeks. There’s so much to look forward to and so much to pack! After you’ve finished packing the basics for your kids, check out my list below of items that will enhance your upcoming Alaskan Cruise.  

Binoculars

I love these binoculars for kids as you don’t have to worry about focusing, easy for them to carry, and durable. There is so much to see on an Alaskan cruise and having binoculars really gets the kids involved and interested in what is out there.

Journal

Depending on your child’s age and interests, they can write about their day or draw what they saw in a journal. It’s a great way to look back at the trip through their eyes. I take pictures of some of their drawings to add to our photo album. I plan on having my son write down the wildlife he sees in order to practice his writing skills. My three-year-old daughter will also have a journal. It will mostly be her beautiful scribbles but a fun dinner activity. When she’s done, we’ll make a note at the bottom of what she drew.

Books about Alaska

Grab some books on Alaska to read to the kids before you leave. It gives them an understanding and builds excitement. Pack their favorite ones to bring with you. It’s fun to reread after seeing many of the places in the book. Below are a few of our favorites. 

• Too Alaska!! (Peter the Cruise Ship)
• Larry Gets Lost in Alaska
• Good Night Alaska
• Alaska’s Midnight Sun

Activities for the Table

Dinners can be long on a cruise so make sure to bring different activities for them to play with between courses. Grab some new items from the toy section of a Dollar Store. Their tin puzzles, small figurines, and cars keep my kids distracted and happy.

This is our current favorite is Water Wow!

What else?

Other favorite must-haves for cruises includes: cold and warm weather clothes, sunscreen, hats, playing cards, crayons, and bathing suits.

Packing can be frustrating as you are worried about forgetting something important. Make a list and keep adding to it as you remember things that you want to bring. We use packing cubes to help keep things organized and fit everything.

FreshCruiser Tip: Don’t be afraid to get your kids involved in the packing process. Allow a little space for a few clothes or small toys they want to bring.

Note:  All the products were selected by FreshCruiser. The links contain affiliate links.

Thank you 2017! A fun year of travel

2017 was an inspiring year of travel within North America. Our family spent time in natural settings, big cities, and tropical locales. Each place was so different, it’s difficult to pick a favorite. I loved spending Fourth of July in Boston, Thanksgiving in NYC, and spring break in Maui. These trips only intrigued us to explore more of these areas in the future. My children tried local foods, fed a hawk, and danced in a waterfall to name a few fun memories. It's amazing to see their reactions as they react to different situations and how much they grow developmentally as we explore.

We will be starting 2018 with a trip to Yosemite, a Mexican cruise, and Machu Picchu in Peru.

Many adventures await.  

Tips for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with Kids

When I was in 8^th grade my parents took my sister and I to New York City to see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. I remember getting up so early that we were one of the first people on the streets.  Our goal was to get as close to Macy’s department store as possible. We watched it on television for so many years that we were hoping to see the performances. As we approached Macy’s Herald Square, it was already packed full of people.  People even brought ladders to see over the crowds. By the end of the parade we were cold and tired but it was worth every second. It is one of my favorite family memories.

Fast-Forward twenty-five years. I now have a family of my own and couldn’t wait to take them to experience the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. My kids are 3-years-old and 5 years-old. Their eyes were as big as bowling balls when they saw the balloons coming down the street. It truly has everything, floats with singers, marching bands, clowns throwing confetti and the giant balloons.  

Get there early

In doing my research before the trip, I read to be on the parade route by 6-6:30am to get a good spot. However, I’d recommend even earlier. By 6:15am all the viewing spots in the front row were taken. The key is to pack correctly as if you are warm and comfortable, the extra 30 minutes or so that I recommend will be worth it.

Restrict Liquids

There is no easy way to get to a bathroom. As the start of the parade approaches, the streets are completely packed and you will not be able to get back to your spot if you do make it out. My kids were fine as we were careful what we gave them. I wanted coffee so I restrained myself to only a little.

Wait

Before the parade starts, there isn’t much to look at. There are lots of police on along the route but no pre-parade entertainment to help make the time go by faster. The best thing to do, especially if you have your kids with you is to get to know your neighbors.

It makes the whole experience better and more exciting. We lucked out with some of the nicest people from around the country and it made the time fly. I brought new activities for my kids to play with while we waited. We also played games like, “I spy” and “Simon says”.

Pack This

• Warm clothes – I recommend long wool socks. My ankles were cold! Put on one more additional layer than you were planning. You can thank me later.
• Blankets – For a little extra warmth, I’d recommend bringing a few old blankets with you.
• Chairs – Bring a camping chair or a weekender seat. I packed the weekender seat in the bottom of my suitcase. I bring it with me on a lot of travels so it's worth the investment. When the parade starts, everyone folds up their chairs so why not be comfortable for the few hours before?
• Hand Warmers – After a few hours waiting, your hands and feet will thank you. Bring the hand warmers with you so you don't have to pay triple to get one from a street vendor.
• Protein Bars – I always travel with CLIF Nut Butter Filled Bars. They are compact and keep you full. My kids love them as they combine chocolate and almond butter.
• Themos – In your suitcase, throw in a themos to use for hot coffee, cocoa or tea. Make it at home before you leave or grab it in your hotel. It will stay warm for hours and you don’t have to worry about it spilling.
• Something to share - I’d recommend bringing a thermos of coffee to share or hand warmers. Grab this 40 pack of Hand Warmers from Amazon and really make friends! Make nice with your neighbors as it enhances everyone’s experience.

If you follow my tips, you will not only be prepared but also enjoy the experience. The anticipation of the parade starting, meeting new people, and sitting on the streets of NYC are all part of the experience.

Headed to Hawaii with your kids? Make room for these must have items in your suitcase

Tips on what to pack when traveling to Hawaii or an island vacation with your kids

Wailea, MauiReady to leave for Hawaii? At this point, you’ve packed bathing suits, shorts, shirts, hats, and tons of sunscreen. Now it’s time to take a step back and find some space for the less obvious must-haves for your trip. 

Big Beach Bag

Throw in a big beach bag, you’ll be glad you did. It’s great for holding your sand toys, snacks, sunscreen, goggles, water, etc. After prepping it the first day of your vacation, you will have all the items you need already in there and can get out of the room quickly. Also, you don’t have to deal with your kids carrying their sand buckets and complaining that it is “too heavy”.

Pool & Beach Toys

It’s essential to have sand and pool toys while in Hawaii. You will be spending most of your time in one of those spots, so buy a few new toys to play with.

For the pool, depending on your children’s swimming abilities bring a mixture of floating toys (bath toys) and dive toys. Of course, buy sand buckets and shovels for the beach. You can stock up on these items at your local dollar store.  

The rule for my kids with all toys is if you bring it to the pool or the beach those items are to be shared. It not only encourages sharing but is an easy way to make new friends. When your vacation is over, there’s no reason to drag them home with you.  Find a family to and have your kids give them the toys, demonstrating kindness to others.

Inflatable Raft

Who doesn’t love floating? An inflatable raft provides hours of fun for all ages.

It’s easy to bring as they are folded up small so it won’t take up much room in your suitcase but you’ll be glad you packed it when you arrive. 

Zip Lock Bags

Treasure Hunting in Wailea, MauiBe prepared by packing a box of Ziplock Bags.  You’ll find yourself glad you have them to reach for throughout the day.

• Kids love to snack. Easily bring snacks with you to the pool or the beach without having to drag the whole bag. Your kids won’t fight over the bag as they have their own bag.  
• Protect your cell phone or camera while at the beach
• Sunscreen goes in a bag in case it opens up and so it doesn’t get covered in sand
• Wet bathing suits
• Put the treasures or seashells your children collect
• Ticket stubs go in one so they are together and ready for scrapbooking. Read the "Top family travel ideas to capture and save memories" article for more tips on easy scrapbooking.
  

Maui Travels

We recently got back from 8 nights in Wailea on the island of Maui with my 4-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter. It was our third time traveling to Maui as a family. We spent our days going between the beach and the pool. Every day was a fun and new adventure that we didn’t want to end.

What less-obvious items do you pack for a beach or pool vacation?

Happy Packing!

FreshCruiser Tip:  Stay away from “we’ll just buy it there” phrase. Try to bring as much as possible so you don’t waste previous vacation hours shopping. 

Capture the Spirit of Aloha at the Te Au Moana Luau in Maui

When on vacation with family, we find ourselves in a constant state of attempting to find that perfect blend of family fun while somehow finding ways to expose the little ones to the local vibe and culture of the destination.

While in Hawaii, the children naturally gravitate to the exciting pools, the beautiful beaches, and the mouth-watering shave ice.  But, how can you find an activity that will be enjoyed by everyone big and small alike that allows your family to surround yourself in the true “Spirit of Aloha?”

The luau has been a Hawaiian custom going back many generations.  It is, in my opinion, the quintessential Hawaiian celebration that is a MUST do activity while in Hawaii.  Sure, the luau is touristy.  Sure, it may even be a bit cheesy at times.  But, in the end, there is no better way to celebrate your family togetherness in a setting that will leave you and your children knowing that you are on the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

I have enjoyed being part of many Hawaiian luaus spread across multiple islands.  No two luau’s are the same – they all have their own character and flavor.  Most recently, my family and I took part in the Te Au Moana Luau on the island of Maui.

The setting of the Te Au Moana Luau truly was spectacular.  Set on the grounds of the newly renovated Wailea Beach Resort - Marriott, just a short walk from the Grand Wailea, Four Seasons, and Andaz properties, the Luau green is set perfectly within the gorgeous palm trees and tiki torches overlooking the sparkling water of the Pacific Ocean.

Upon check-in, all guests are greeted with a Hawaiian flower Lei and then shown to their seat.  Before dinner is served, there are different stations allowing the guests to participate in local Hawaiian customs.  My kids absolutely loved this part as they were able to participate in arts and crafts, get a temporary Hawaiian style tattoo, and flowers pinned to their hair.

It was then time to remove the pig (or piggy as my kids like to call it) from the pit. I thought that my kids would have been a little uneasy watching this part, but, to my surprise, they were intrigued by it! 

After our table was called, we made our way to the buffet.  We found the food to be delicious.  The salad with papaya seed dressing, seafood, poultry, and of course the traditional pork and poi along with many other selections were a big hit.  My 4 year-old went back up to refill his plate with even more pork and poi!  He must have some Hawaiian DNA in there…

Performances

As the sun set below the Pacific casting the most gorgeous Hawaiian sunset across the sky, the performers in their spectacular traditional attire danced, sang, and of course, Hula’d across the stage, leaving the audience, especially my kids with a permanent smile from ear to ear.  The host did a perfect job in extending the local warmth to everyone by telling stories of the past and by explaining the how the local traditions are seen through the various performances.  

One of the highlights of the luau for me was watching both my kids stand up and hula along with the show – they were captivated by the performers.  Accompanying the dancers and singers was a live band playing traditional Hawaiian music and melodies. 

As darkness fell over the luau grounds, the fire dancers left my children in awe as they spun and threw their torches in the air.  When the show wrapped up, my family all new exactly where we were – we were on vacation in beautiful Hawaii.

The Te Au Moana Luau truly is a wonderful way to experience the warmth and beauty of the Hawaiian culture in a way that will keep your entire family happily engaged making it a can’t miss event while on your vacation in Maui.

FreshCruiser Tips for the Te Au Moana Luau

• Plan to see the luau towards the beginning of your vacation.  There is no better way to kick off your trip. 
• Book early, before you leave on your vacation – the luau will often sell out.  Keep in mind, the luau is only 4 times each week, so plan accordingly.
• Arrive a little early to get in line. The seats are first come first serve.  After checking in, you are escorted to the best available open seat.
• This luau has a 4:30pm start time, which works well for families with younger kids.

Review of North Star on Royal Caribbean Cruises

I do research on every ship we are considering to find out if the amenities, cruise size, and activities are for my family before we book. I have to admit, when I came across the North Star on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, it wasn’t on the top of my list. It would be a $40 per person charge since we were sailing during the Ovation of the Seas China season. The price seemed high compared to all the included activities such as the rock climbing wall, bumper cars, roller skating, and Splashaway Bay.

I was wrong.

It was one of my favorite activities I did while cruising on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. I was able to literally experience a birds-eye-view of the ship.

Your journey starts by entering the capsule. The glass-windowed capsule has 360 degree views. The capsule moves slowly throughout the approximately 12-minute trip.

As North Star’s arm moved over to the port of the ship, you are suspended over the ship, looking back at all the cabins and upper decks.

Next, the arm extends upwards to an 80-degree angle and you are now over 300 feet above sea level. As you look down to the ship, you feel as though you are “soaring” and almost spying on the fun below.

A North Star Date  – Left the kids behind

On a sea day, my husband and I dropped the kids off at the Adventure Ocean and had an afternoon date since my toddlers were unable to go on the North Star due to height requirements. Leaving the kids behind, allowed us to truly take in the vast height and remarkable views. There was only one other couple in the pod with us, which made the experience more romantic and all around enjoyable.

I highly recommend the experience.

About North Star

Below are a few North Star Facts (Source: Royal Caribbean)

• Guinness World Record holder for being the “Highest Viewing Deck on a Cruise Ship”
• Available on three Royal Caribbean ships: Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, and Anthem of the Seas.
• 14 guests including room for one wheelchair, plus one Operator
• Complimentary on all sailings (Except for Ovation of the Seas sailings during its China season)
• Open while at sea and in port
• Air conditioning and heat available in the pod
• No limit to the amount of times a guest can experience North Star
• Premium packages available

 

FreshCruiser Tip: It will be the most crowded at the beginning of the cruise. Plan to go on North Star a few days later to escape the crowds.

Photo Tour & Review of the Kids’ areas on Ovation of the Seas

A photo tour of the kids’ areas on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas

What is there to do onboard the Ovation of the Seas with Kids?

Ovation of the Seas. Picture taken from North Star attraction.We spent 8 days with our two toddlers on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class Ship, Ovation of the Seas in Asia. The ship was child-friendly with many spots throughout the ship specifically for toddlers and kids. The 8-day itinerary included the following ports: Kochi, Japan, Miyazaki, Japan, and Busan, Korea.

Adventure Ocean – Youth Club

My daughter was a Royal Tot (ages 18- 36 months) and my son was an Aquanaut (ages 3-5 years).

My son kept asking us if he could go to Adventure Ocean. On other ships that we have been on, we’d have to encourage him to go each time. The activities were well planned and when I would come to pick him up, he’d say, “Mommy, can you come back after we finish this game?” There is no better compliment than that.

There was a small hourly fee for my younger daughter to be dropped off at the Royal Tots Nursery.  It was the first time we ever left her with someone that wasn’t family. There were never any tears or sadness when we dropped her off. She enjoyed the attention from the staff and exploring all the new toys. 

I wish there was enough staff to have Adventure Ocean open all day as many times my son wanted to go, it was closed. For instance, it was closed mid-day for a few hours and from 5pm to 7pm every night.

Splashaway Bay - Waterpark for kids

Splashaway Bay has two waterslides, a splash pad area, and a whirlpool pool. The slides offer endless fun and are manageable for kids to go on their own. Splashaway Bay Kids' WaterparkUnfortunately your child must be a minimum of 42"inches tall to ride the slides.  I felt this was strict as the slides are very basic and appeal to a younger child.

Splashaway Bay Kids' Waterpark

Since it can get cool on deck and the water isn’t heated, I’d recommend bringing a wetsuit for your child.

Swimming Pools

 

There are indoor and outdoor pools on the Ovation of the Seas including an adult-only pool at the bow of the ship. My son would jump in and swim to the other side. He loved going into the indoor pool after breakfast during sea days. There were complimentary life jackets for children who needed one. Children must be potty trained to use the pools, no diapers or swim diapers are allowed. 

Seaplex

Seaplex

Seaplex is a large indoor space which offers activities such as bumper cars, roller skating, and basketball. During the roller skating session, my son and I laced up the borrowed skates and took a spin around the rink. It was my son’s first time on roller skates and I hadn’t been on them in over 15 years. The opportunity to roller skate is why I love cruising so much. It got my son out of his comfort zone, tried something new, and we both had fun doing it together. There was no additional charge.

RipCord by iFLY®

My 3 year-old son and I exhibited our adventurous spirit and booked a reservation for RipCord by iFLY®, “the first skydiving experience at sea.” When my son’s two minutes were up, he asked to go again!  It was a special moment to do something like this with my son.  Cruising offers many opportunities to make lifetime memories.

Indoor Play area

“Welcome to Play” reads the sign as you enter the parent-supervised indoor play area on the ship. There are slides, toys, and all sorts of things to play with inside the indoor playground. It offers an alternative to being dropped off at Adventure Ocean. Smaller children can explore and play while with their parents.

Stateroom Toys

As part of the Royal Tots program, we checked-out a bag of toys to play in the room. Each bag has a theme from transportation to building. Every few days we would return one bag and pick up a new one. It provided our kids with something new to play with as we got ready every morning. It also was a good exercise in borrowing and sharing toys.

Ship-Wide - Character Photo Opportunities

My son giving Po (Kung Fu Panda) a hug

The DreamWorks characters were also sailing on the Ovation of the Seas with us!My son was in awe while meeting the characters during their daily appearances throughout the ship. The characters typically came out and performed a 1-2 minute dance and then posed for pictures.

Adventure Ocean Dance Party with Dreamworks CharactersOn our final day at sea, there was an Adventure Ocean dance party with the DreamWorks characters which was definitely a highlight of the cruise.

Additional Adventures for Kids

The activities for kids on the Ovation of the Seas are endless. Although my toddlers were not tall enough to experience all of them, the additional activities include: North Star observation capsule, FlowRider® surf simulator, and a 30-foot high Rock Climbing Wall. Even though my kids were too short, it will give them something to look forward to trying on future sailings.

We always felt there were many activities to pick from during our 8-day cruise on the Ovation of the Seas. The ship was truly designed where there are spaces for kids of all ages.

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Travel Tips for visiting Hong Kong with Toddlers

Heading to Hong Kong with your toddlers? Here’s my survival guide including tips on how to survive jet lag and what to expect when visiting Hong Kong with kids.

Plan Day 1: Stay awake

Our flight left Los Angeles at 10:30pm and arrived in Hong Kong at 5am local time. The flight time was approximately 15 hours. We made it to Hong Kong and had a full day ahead of us.

Before you leave, contact the hotel to tell them your arrival time so they can try to have your room ready. After a long flight, everyone will feel better after a shower and new clothes. Depending on how much you and your kids slept on the flight, it can be a difficult day, don’t plan to visit the big sights. Your main focus should be to get settled and try to stay up until after dinner.

If your children take a nap, don’t let them sleep more than a few hours as their internal clock is saying that it’s night time, not nap time.

Be prepared to get up early

It may take a few days to adjust to the local time.  If your kids are up at 4am, you will be as well. It’s important to be flexible. When deciding on a hotel, book one that includes breakfast or has easy breakfast options for the family.

Enjoying breakfast in the hotel is a stress-free way to start the day. If the restaurant is not opened yet, I recommend ordering room service for breakfast and going sightseeing early. I love exploring a city before anyone else is out and about –there’s a magical feeling when you have it all to yourselves.  

Try the local food

An important part of experiencing a different culture while traveling is eating at local restaurants. In Hong Kong, staff was usually friendly and helpful when we ordered. If your kids are picky eaters, order white rice or ask for a dish without the sauce (think fried chicken). Even if your children aren’t eating the local food, you still get to enjoy it and they are experiencing the local restaurant culture.

Hello Kitty CafeMy husband and I love dim sum (dumplings). We decided to the Hello Kitty Cafe for lunch one afternoon which is known for its dim sum shaped like Hello Kitty. My son loved the shrimp dumplings so much we had to order more.

What to Do

Getting around Hong Kong is extremely easy. The locals are helpful and friendly when you ask for help. Toddlers love to take different modes of transportation and Hong Kong has it all.

While visiting, we went on the tram, bus, trolley, ferry, taxi, gondola, observation wheel and a cable car.  My children had so much fun; I don’t think they could pick a favorite. Read my blog post, “Top 5 things do to in Hong Kong with kids” for more things to do in Hong Kong with your children.

The best way to enjoy your time in Hong Kong with toddlers is to be flexible and enjoy the ups and downs. Safe travels!