Traveling Grand Bahama Island with the Kiddos

Posted on June 13, 2019March 29, 2020 by gigis ramblings

Grand Bahama Island is a wonderful place for families traveling with children. The northernmost island in the Bahamian archipelago is overflowing with beautiful beaches, swaying palms, mystic coves and other family-friendly sights and attractions that together make for an unforgettable island getaway.

The following are some family-approved attractions and resorts that come recommended by yours truly:

Kid-Friendly Things to Do

Gold Rock Beach. Gold Rock Beach is located in the gorgeous Lucayan National Park. This is a beautiful family-friendly beach that features picnic tables, benches, and barbecue pits. It is located about 45 miles from Port Lucaya, but well worth the trip.

The Garden of the Groves. For more than two decades, visitors have flocked to these tropical gardens. Discover exotic plants and flowers, waterfalls, migratory birds, and butterflies. There is an intriguing labyrinth, as well as a playground for the little ones. And Wi-Fi!

Freetown Farm. A real working farm that allows families to see and experience life in the country hands-on. Freetown Farm has miniature ponies, horseback riding, fruits and veggies, sugar cane stalks, chickens and full-size horses. Once the site of many U.S. film productions in the 1960s, the property now offers tours and trail rides for families with children as young as 5 years old.

People-to-People. With the People-to-People program, visiting kids can meet the children of Grand Bahamas Island. They can join a Pen Pal Program or spend a day going to a Bahamian school. A fun learning experience and a great way for the young ‘uns.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Memories Grand Bahama Resort & Spa. Memories Grand Bahama Beach Resort is an ideal resort for families vacationing in the Grand Bahama Island. Specifically, for the family, Memories has an on-site splash pad with a slide for kids, a Kids Club (ages 4-12) with special and safe facilities, cartoons, daily activities, games and playground, and a Teens Club (ages 13-17) that includes video games, WiFi with charging stations, billiards and table tennis. The property has a whopping 492 rooms and is located adjacent to the casino.

Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach. The Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach is four miles from the Market Place and has 274 rooms in three categories – vista, flora, and standard. Its all-inclusive features include the Viva Kid’s Club for children 4 to 12 years of all. This is a very popular option for families traveling with children.

Grand Lucayan, Bahamas. Grand Lucayan sits on 7.5 miles of beautiful white sandy beaches, overlooking the most spectacular Azul waters you will ever witness. Guests will find a world-class spa and casino on site. The resort also hosts a wonderful variety of recreational activities for everyone in your family to enjoy.

What are you waiting for? Start making your plans!! Book a flight, reserve a room, rent a car!

Safe travels!

Let’s Travel to Cozumel

Posted on January 16, 2019February 1, 2024 by gigis ramblings

Every year, millions of travelers head south of the border — and with so much to see and experience, it’s no surprise that the Mexican Caribbean is the most popular multi-destination to visit in Mexico.

The island of Cozumel can be found just off the eastern coast of Mexico. Cozumel is located in the Caribbean Sea, close to Playa del Carmen and just south of Cancun. A member of the Mexican Mayan Riviera, visitors choose to go to Cozumel for its beautiful beaches and tropical climate.

Interesting Facts:

Cozumel was first settled by the Mayan Indians and they remained there until the 16th century when Spanish settlers infected with smallpox arrived and annihilated the entire population.
Cozumel features a small section of the world’s second-largest barrier reef system, known as the Mesoamerican Reef.
The island was thought to be sacred to Ix Chel, the Mayan Moon Goddess.

Useful Information:

Best time to visit: The optimal time to visit the island is from March to June when the daytime highs top out around 90 degrees. It is not uncommon to experience tropical storms during late summer – early fall when hurricane season arrives.
What to pack: Shorts, tank tops, sundresses, beach attire, and other light clothing. If you are traveling during the warmer months, I suggest outfits that are loose-fitting and comfortable because it can get very humid and hot during the day. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
Getting around: Travelers arrive on the island a variety of ways, including cruise ships, airplanes, and ferry rides. Once on the island, travelers are able to rent a vehicle if they chose. Taxis and buses are also available. Many single travelers and couples choose to rent a moped to get around.

What to Do:

Dolphinaris Cozumel is fun for all ages! Dolphinaris offers you the exhilarating opportunity to swim with dolphins in five tropical locations that are extremely popular among tourists. Dolphinaris can be found in Cancun, Tulum, Riviera Maya Park, Cozumel and at Barceló Hotel.
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is the perfect place to make memories with the family. Take the plunge at Cozumel’s largest water park. Work on your tan while surrounded by numerous activities, authentic Mexican cuisine and relaxing spa treatments. See the cultural sights and sounds of Mexico with tours that showcase tequila, chocolate, and other local flavors. If you’re adventurous, take a trip down the 200-foot long Twin Twisters water slides. Set your kids free to become pirates at Buccaneer’s Bay while you kick back under a shady palm on the beach or at the swim-up pool bar and restaurant. Here, anything is possible.
Of course, the beach has to be on the list of things to do! Playa Palancar has beautiful turquoise waters and sugary sands, everything you would expect from this part of Mexico. This is one of my favorite beaches around Cozumel. It has the atmosphere of an exclusive beach but is free and open to the public. The clear waters make it the ideal spot for snorkeling.
Cozumel Pearl Farm is a family-owned and operated pearl farm nestled on a beautiful white sand beach along the north shore of Cozumel Island. Being the only active Pearl Farm in the Caribbean, Cozumel Pearl Farm is located in a natural protected area that remains pristine and untouched; it is only accessible by boat. This is a unique and highly popular attraction among visitors.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a travel writer and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

Related: Let’s Travel to Orlando

Let’s Travel to Yosemite

Posted on August 25, 2018April 1, 2020 by gigis ramblings

If you have never had the pleasure of visiting Yosemite National Park, in California’s Sierra Madres, you are missing the experience of a lifetime. Home to grassy meadows, granite cliffs, lakes, giant sequoias, glaciers, forests and waterfalls galore, this place is a nature lover’s paradise.

Interesting Facts:

Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, can be found within the park and has a staggering 2,425-foot drop.
Scientists believe a glacier is responsible for forming the unique shape of the Yosemite Valley.
There are at least 90 species of mammals in the park, including black bears, coyotes, beavers, bobcats, bats, and chipmunks.
The park was home to the Ahwaneechee Indians for more than 4,000 years.

Useful Information:

Best time to visit: The recommended months to visit Yosemite are May and September when the park is open but not too crowded. I should mention, many roads and trails in Yosemite are closed for the majority of the year due to snow. Seasonal park closures are the primary reason why so many travelers visit during the summer months, making these months the park’s busiest time of year.
What to wear: Dress appropriately for the season that you are visiting. In the cooler months, a jacket or layered clothing is usually required for comfort. When picking your shoes for the day, consider your planned activities. Waterproof shoes are recommended. Due to the higher elevations and exposure to the sun, I suggest packing hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Most visitors chose to drive personal vehicles throughout the park. Keep in mind, road closures are common between October- March. The Yosemite Valley Shuttle provides free rides to and from all the major vista points, shops, and accommodations within the Yosemite Valley, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. year-round.

What to See:

Yosemite Falls, like I mentioned earlier, is the highest waterfall in the U.S. The best time to view is during late spring when the excess water from melting snow flows most vigorously.
Half Dome is probably the most popular geographical feature in the park. Some people just want to witness it and snap a few pictures, others prefer to hike it. Whichever you choose, it’s a must-see. If you plan on hiking you must purchase a permit.
Glacier Point is considered one of the most breathtaking lookouts in Yosemite. The panoramic views are indescribable. The point is accessible by vehicle, making it convenient for those traveling with small children.
The Mist Trail is one of the park’s most frequented trails. To reach the top of the falls, visitors must hike up a 600-step granite staircase that runs alongside a raging waterfall, taking you close enough to where mist from the falls sprays out onto the trail.

Related: Let’s Travel to Orlando

Let’s Travel to Orlando

Posted on August 9, 2018April 3, 2020 by gigis ramblings

With world-class theme parks, fantastic shopping, family fun galore and wild nature experiences – who wouldn’t want to visit Orlando? Packed with so much to see and do, it’s easy to understand why it is one of the nation’s most sought-after destinations.

Interesting Facts:

The city is known as “The Theme Park Capital of the World.”
Gatorland was the first theme park to call Orlando home, opening in 1949. The primary attraction was a 15-foot alligator which was thought to be the biggest in the world at that time.
The number of daily visitors in Orlando is equal to the population of Atlanta, GA.
Orlando is home to more than 100 lakes.

Useful Information:

Best time to visit: The most desirable time to visit is between the months of January and April, depending on your actual destination. If theme parks are at the top of your to-do list, March-May is optimal. The weather is mild, and accommodations are reasonable during this time.
What to wear: Shorts, tank tops, sundresses, and other light clothing. If you are traveling during the warmer months, I suggest outfits that are loose-fitting and comfortable because it can get very humid and hot during the day. The theme parks are casual, so you should wear clothing that won’t bother you during a long day of walking in the heat.
Getting around: Most people either drive their own personal car or rent a car. This is the most affordable and convenient way of getting around the city. Companies like Uber and private tour operators are also popular options. Many hotels offer a complimentary shuttle and taxi rides to major attractions.

What to Do:

Of course, Walt Disney World is going to be at the top of my list! I have been obsessed with Mickey Mouse since I was an infant. I don’t think this one needs an explanation – It’s Disney!
Universal Studios is another theme park that you must do when in Orlando. This is an amazing way to experience your favorite TV shows and movies. The complex actually houses two theme parks. Universal Studios for entertainment, and Islands of Adventure for thrills.
SeaWorld Orlando is perfect for those who are both thrill-seekers and animal lovers. This is one of the only places in the country you see killer whales, orcas, penguins, stingrays, otters, dolphins and many more amazing sea creatures up close while learning how to protect these majestic animals.
When you need a break from the amusement park scene, I suggest a 45-minute day trip to Kennedy Space Center. The complex is large, so it’s recommended that you plan to stay all day. This is an educational and exciting destination with something of interest for family members of all ages.

Related: Let’s Travel to Orlando

Let’s Travel to Maui

Posted on July 11, 2018April 4, 2020 by gigis ramblings

There is no one particular reason why Maui is regularly named the world’s best island. Rather, there are literally thousands of reasons why so many love Maui’s intoxicating charm. On the island, watching the sunset is a celebrated evening ritual as tropical winds rustle the swaying palm tree branches dotted along the sand. It’s a place where the climates are mild year-round and guests are greeted with aloha. If you were forced to choose a handful of reasons why Maui is truly no ka oi (the best), the following list would be a good place to start.

Interesting Facts:

Maui is home to more than 80 beaches with more than 30 miles of white, black and rare red sand beaches.
Haleakala, the island’s most famous volcano, is the largest dormant volcano in the world.
Honokohau Falls plunges a heart-stopping 1,100 feet, making it one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
Hawaii is one of the most popular whale-watching destinations in the world. As many as 1 0,000 humpback whales migrate to Hawaii from Alaska each year.

Useful Information:

Best time to visit: With year-round warm weather, it’s always a good time to visit Maui. Peak times are during the summer and winter months. If you are looking for fewer crowds, September – November is optimal.
What to wear: Casual beachwear is acceptable just about anywhere in Hawaii, shorts and flip-flops are the norm. Depending on where you plan on visiting, more formal dress may be necessary.
Getting around: The most common transportation method for tourists is a rental car. There is public transportation available, but not always the best option for visitors. If you are traveling without children, motorized bikes are a popular way to get around the island.

What to See:

The beaches! Maui has more miles of swimmable beaches than any other island in Hawaii. I personally recommend Ka’anapali Beach, Wailea Beach, Baldwin Beach, Honokalani Beach, Hamoa Beach and Big Beach at Makena State Park.
The Road to Hana, if done correctly, is arguably Maui’s best sight. Spend the whole day, or better yet two, to truly experience the natural beauty of Hana. Drive the “back road” to indulge in a landscape that feels like utopia.
Haleakala National Park is the perfect place to take in a beautiful sunrise or sunset. Haleakala Crater towers over the island and is visible from just about any point. Often people wake up early to head to the Haleakala Visitor Center, which is the best spot to watch what is possibly the most breathtaking sunrise on earth. Perhaps just as notable are Haleakala’s sunsets and the vivid, starry skies that are soon to follow.
The Old Lahaina Luau is one of the most frequently recommended attractions for first-time Maui visitors. It is a fun introduction to Hawaiian history and culture. The members of Lahaina’s luau pride themselves on accurately representing tradition, rather than catering to tourists’ preconceived notions of native luaus.

Related: Let’s Travel to Orlando

5 Family-Friendly Beaches in Miami

Posted on July 3, 2018March 29, 2020 by gigis ramblings

The warm clear blue waters of the Atlantic set Miami apart from other coastal destinations. Known as one of the country’s top vacation spots, Miami is famous for its beaches, nightlife, shopping and restaurants.

As I’ve probably mentioned before on Gigi’s Ramblings, Miami is also referred to as the cruise ship capital of the world. On any given day, a large number of party, sightseeing and Caribbean-bound cruise liners can be seen departing its busy port.

The upscale hotels, specialty boutiques, art festivals and numerous sports activities attract visitors from all walks of life. For those who are planning on visiting, I have compiled a list of 5 family-friendly beach destinations you can visit year-round.

Bal Harbour

Situated in the upper tip of Miami Beach, Bal Harbour is known for its charming character and gorgeous azul waters lined with powdery beaches and tropical gardens. Interestingly, Bal Harbour has more millionaires per capita than any other U.S. city, listed by Discover Homes Miami as an exclusive neighborhood, known for its wealthy residents, swanky oceanfront hotels, resorts and private homes.

With less than 3,000 permanent residents, Bal Harbour is a peaceful enclave located along the Atlantic shoreline. Shopping in the trendy Bal-Harbour Shops open-air complex, is popular among tourists and locals alike, featuring top designers like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Versace, Chanel, Hermes and Burberry among many others.

Although beaches can only be accessed through the hotels or clubs, they are beautifully pristine and among the most protected coastal areas in the nation. Bal Harbour is the ideal place for those looking for peace and quiet along an uncrowded stretch of sand.

Haulover Beach

With fine, sugary white sand and surf that stretches for miles, Haulover Beach is a fantastic family destination. The beach is ideal for both swimming and surfing, drawing visitors from all over the US and Canada.

Haulover has found itself at the top of many best beaches lists over the years. This is primarily due to its beautiful scenery and year-round phenomenal weather. It sits in a perfect spot right between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.

I should mention for those parents traveling with little ones, the area is also home to South Florida’s most well-known nude beaches, a very popular gay nude beach and even a dog beach; not to worry, however, as each area is clearly marked for visitors.

Sunny Isles Beach

Centrally located between the Atlantic Ocean on the East and the Intracoastal Waterway on the West, Sunny Isles can be found just north of Miami Beach. Sunny Isles is home to several world-renowned restaurants, theaters and nightclubs, which dot the oceanside boulevard. The beach features some of Miami’s most spectacular ocean views, with white sand stretching for miles.

Well-kept public parks and plenty of safe places for children to play make Sunny Isles Beach one of the top family destinations in Miami. Easy access to shopping, spas, golf, tennis and water sports make this top spot that much more desirable for those seeking an adventurous getaway.

Once known as Motel Row in the 1950s, today Sunny Isles is a popular tourist destination with visitors coming to enjoy both its natural beauty and commercial appeal. And did I mention the beach has one of the most breathtaking sunrises in the world?

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Beach

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Beach is a quiet and serene alternative to Miami’s more notorious beaches. Located right on the tip of Key Biscayne, it is also home to the Cape Florida Light, a historic lighthouse and the oldest standing building in Miami-Dade County.

This beach certainly doesn’t lack in beauty or charm and there is an abundance of activities. Walking and bike trails wind through plush grounds of native vegetation. Avid fishermen and families wanting to cast a line can purchase bait and tackle on the seawall along Biscayne Bay.

Visitors can take advantage of the two onsite restaurants, the Lighthouse Café which faces the beach, and Boaters Grill, located on a secluded lagoon. Both restaurants serve authentic Cuban food, sandwiches and beverages. A relaxing beach day on beautiful Key Biscayne is a treasured Miami pastime.

South Pointe Park Pier

South Pointe Park Pier is a popular spot among families with children. With a more private and secluded beach area, a playground with a water park, a fishing pier and easy access to nearby restaurants and amenities, South Pointe is the perfect choice for relaxation and unwinding. With an ideal location at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, it is also a great place to gaze at the cruise ships as they come and go while relaxing on the beach.

The Pier extends into the Atlantic Ocean and is popular among local fishermen, conveniently equipped with stations for cutting bait and washing fish. When it’s crab season, you’ll find plenty of folks carrying bags of seafood and claws from the nearby restaurants. The large park flourishes all year and offers walking paths, lush greenery and panoramic views of the ocean.

Let’s Travel to Toronto

Posted on January 18, 2018January 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

If you are considering a trip north beyond the Canadian border, Toronto is an incredibly family-friendly city. There are endless entertainment possibilities for families of all sizes and kids of all ages.

Toronto has things to do that will truly make you and your family feel like an insider. Find out how much fun it can be to see and experience Toronto like a native.

Interesting Facts:

Famous people who hail from Toronto include Drake, Jim Carrey, Mike Myers, Tristan Thompson, and Eugene Levy.
More than 30% of Toronto residents speak a language other than English and French.
Toronto is Canada’s largest city with a population of over 5.5 million. The Greater Toronto area is teeming with some 6,054,191 residents.
Toronto is home to an astonishing 8,000-plus restaurants.

Useful Information:

Best time to visit: June and September are the optimal months to visit, the weather is pleasant and is less crowded than in July and August. The Toronto Islands are a desirable destination year-round, with an amusement park open during the summer months and cross country skiing in the winter.
What to pack: Depending on when you choose to visit will determine what type of clothing will be weather appropriate. Toronto has been known to have harsh winters, while other seasons are usually mild. Casual, comfortable clothing will suffice for most outings.
Getting around: Many visitors choose to drive from the states or fly in and rent a car, but a private vehicle isn’t required to get around. The Toronto Transit Commission operates one of the world’s finest public transportation systems, with a network of interlinking subway lines, buses, and streetcar lines.

What to Do:

The Toronto Zoo is the largest in Canada. It is home to over 16,000 animals representing 491 species. Spend hours of adventure and fun at a world-renowned zoo. Open Year Round!
High Park is Toronto’s largest public park. There is something for family members of all ages. Take a stroll along the Grenadier Pond and you won’t feel like you’re in a big city. It also boasts a zoo, playgrounds, a dog park, sports facilities, and many hiking trails.
The Ontario Science Centre is a great educational and interactive attraction. Exhibits such as Space, Questions of Truth and Living Earth challenge the mind. Putting the focus on families, the Science Center features the Weston Family Innovation Centre. Here, families can perform interactive science experiments together.
The CN Tower is hard to miss, standing at a little over 1,815 ft., it is the world’s second-largest tower. It is a sight to behold, attracting 2 million visitors per year. After an extended elevator ride, tourists will find themselves observing the city below from an astounding 1,136 ft. Another attraction, The Glass Floor, gives visitors the ability to look down Toronto as they walk on clear glass. It is quite the stomach-wrenching experience for those afraid of heights.

Related: Let’s Travel to Orlando

Central Park with Kids

Posted on April 8, 2017January 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

When you are in New York City, it is a given, you must visit Central Park. Your trip is not complete without treating your family to the Central Park experience. Whether you plan on doing a self-guided tour or taking part in many of the tours that are offered throughout the park, this article will cover some of the must-see attractions that your kids will love.

The History of Central Park

Construction on Central Park began in 1857, becoming the first urban park in the United States. The design was the brainchild of superintendent Frederick Law Olmsted and architect Calvert Vaux. It took more than 10 years to come to life, costing the city of New York millions of dollars. More than 1,500 residents lost their homes and land to make way for the expansive 840-acre construction.

During the early years, Central Park was most frequented by the wealthy, but over the years it evolved into a park of the people. The last century has brought more practical uses to the park. Today, it is the main outdoor recreation hub for New Yorkers.

Experiencing Central Park

There is so much to see and do, that families may be at a loss for where to start. We have a few suggestions for the best ways to see the park when you have children in tow.

Central Park Rickshaw Tours. Rickshaw tours are a fantastic way for families with children to explore the park. One-hour tours are available along the lower loop where you will find some of the best kid-friendly attractions, including the carousel, the Chess and Checkers House, Heckscher Playground, Wollman Rink, Umpire Rock, Bow Bridge and the Children’s Zoo. If you would like to explore a little more, there is also a two-hour tour that covers everything in the one-hour tour plus attractions like the Great Lawn, Belvedere Castle, Turtle Pond, the Museum of Natural History and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. If you prefer to see the entire park, your family can reserve a private 3-hour tour.

Horse and Carriage Rides. Horse and carriage rides are another idea for touring Central Park. You will find several options available throughout the grounds that vary by length and price. Generally speaking, when on a carriage tour you can expect to see sites, such as The Lake, Heckscher Playground, Tavern on the Green, the Upper West Side and Bethesda Fountain.

Bike Tours. If you are looking to get a little exercise, bike rentals and tours are an option. Adult bikes, children’s bikes, tandem bikes, baby seats and baby trailers are all available. You can choose from guided or self-guided tours. If you choose to have a guide, you can expect to see popular attractions, such as Belvedere Castle, Wollman Rink, Gapstow Bridge, Conservatory Garden, Shakespeare Garden, the Loeb Boathouse and more.

Kid-friendly Attractions in Central Park

Once you’ve taken in all the sites on your Central Park tour make sure you check out these popular kid-friendly attractions:

Central Park Zoo
Alice in Wonderland statue
Belvedere Castle
Heckscher Playground
Umpire Rock
The Carousel
Wollman Rink
The Boat Pond
The Dairy