Great Places To Eat at When Your Family Visits Germany

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A family vacation to Germany is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There is so much to see and do you definitely want to plan accordingly ahead of time. One thing you definitely want to plan is where you will eat. There are numerous famous restaurants around the country. Whether you visit Berlin or one of the smaller towns an hour or so outside the capital, there is plenty to eat. Here are some of the most popular establishments to eat at in Germany for locals and tourists alike.

Hofbräuhaus München

This restaurant dates back to the 16^th century. It is easy to see why it has lasted for centuries once you step foot inside. It is a glorious three-floor beer hall that offers incredible Bavarian cuisine. It proudly boasts itself as the world’s most famous tavern. While you can certainly grab a beer, it has some classic German dishes on the menu, including roast pork with crackling, wiener schnitzel and beef goulash. With both a rich history and rich food, the entire family will find something to love here.

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Restaurant FACIL

You will definitely want to make a reservation before stopping by Restaurant FACIL. It is a fine dining establishment that boasts minimalist décor and huge glass windows. It features a seasonal menu, so you can visit it at different points of the year to enjoy unique dishes. It has been awarded with two Michelin Stars, so when you look for something a bit more upscale around Berlin, this is the place to go to.

Bayerischer Bahnhof

On lists of the most popular German restaurants in Leipzig, Bayerischer Bahnhof frequently ranks toward the top. It is a restaurant, beer garden and inn all in one. This restaurant was first built in 1842, and it is the perfect location if you will host a large event or if you want to check out whatever soccer match is on. In addition to offering a variety of homebrewed beer, it also serves up pork steak as well as pumpkin and apple cream soup.

Monsieur Vuong

Monsieur Vuong is small but personable. It serves up simple Vietnamese food, such as noodle salads and pho. The food is light, and you can be certain your dish will be free of any MSG. You can also enjoy an exotic tea or fruity cocktail along with your meal. Most meals will not last long, so it is perfect if you just want a quick bite before going about your day.

Osman’s Tochter

There is a sizable Turkish population throughout Berlin, and you can enjoy some of the finest Turkish cuisine around as Osman’s Tochter. It draws influence from classic dishes but puts a modern twist on them. Some of the dishes you can order here include lamb chops, fish köfte and grilled meatballs in yogurt. Many tourists prefer sitting outside to partake in some people-watching.

These are just a few of the amazing restaurants you can eat at while visiting Germany. There are plenty of others to find, so do sufficient research to find establishments you will remember for years to come.

Practical Things You Can Do To Plan To Travel The World

Many people aspire to see as much of this wonderful world as possible while they still have the chance; to have the opportunity to witness the history and culture of a foreign country, gain new experiences and memories to take home with them. Doubtless, if you are reading this, then travel is very much on your mind too. The only problem with seeing the world is that it can be a costly endeavor, especially if your young and are only just starting out, perhaps having left full-time education recently. Seeing the world is, it must be remembered, one of those things that it is never a mistake. If you have the opportunity to do it, you must grab life by the shoulders and go. So, in this guide, you will learn some ways you can make this possible for yourself and start living the life you have always dreamed of.

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Seeing the world before it’s too late

When you are young, there is a seemingly never-ending list of things to think about, from how to get the right qualifications for the job you want to finding an affordable place to live so you can finally move out of your parent's house. When thinking about these things, it can seem that this just isn’t the right time to get out and see the world but, in fact, the opposite is true. If you don’t yet have a mortgage to be paying back and are working a job that is more to bring in the money rather than start your career, then you are actually in a perfect position to see the world because you are not tied down to too many responsibilities yet. Alongside this, there are a huge number of reasons it's essential to travel when you're still young that will enrich your life. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you will be challenging yourself in new ways and building up your self-confidence and esteem. It will help you grow as a person and foster independence and resilience of character that will aid you when you come back home and be enviable qualities employers will seek out in applicants. Travelling, be it with a friend or on your own, will help you become a more well-rounded person and put you on stronger footing when you return to start your life, both personally and professionally, as a better person.

Getting the funds together as a young person

Of course, getting the money together is a consideration you need to take seriously as you don’t want to get all the way out to some magical place to find you have no funds left to actually enjoy yourself. One option that is worth considering is to get a loan as this option will allow you to have the valuable life experiences without having to take a chunk out of your life savings to do so. You will want to learn more about this option so you can choose the best deal that suits your needs and get planning that adventure of a lifetime.

Finding the perfect destination

Now that you have the financial side of things sorted out, you will want to make that money stretch as much as possible so that you can get the most out of your journey into the unknown. One way of doing this is to get ideas of where to travel on the cheap which will limit your overall expenditure of things like flights and hotels, allowing you to spend more of your money on enjoying seeing a new country. Choosing somewhere cheap to visit, perhaps contrary to what you may initially think doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the wow factor. For example, a really cheap holiday destination you should think about visiting is Vietnam. Vietnam has a fascinating history you can explore, learning about the war and the Viet Cong, while enjoying the gorgeous natural surroundings or bustling modern cities, trying out all the best cuisine the country has to offer.

How to find cheap travel options

Once you have decided on a place to visit, you will need to sort out how you are going to get there and, the most obvious way is, of course, to fly. Depending on where you have decided to go, flights can become very expensive. Even if you have found a place that is relatively economical to get to, it is worth shopping around to see if you can get something just a little bit cheaper, so you have more money to play around with when you are out there. There is lots of handy help to get cheap flights online, such as specialist search engines that can find you the cheapest airline company for the destination and date you are looking for. Aside from this, there are steps you can take yourself to make sure you are saving money. For example, never book a holiday during the school holiday periods as, even if you aren’t going to a family resort, flight prices will be much higher. Another option is to consider travelling at night as night flights often tend to be less expensive. This way, you can save money and have a nice little sleep on the plane so that you are fresh-faced and ready to take on the day the moment you touch down.

Tight budget? No problem

Even if after taking all these measures you are still a little concerned about the money aspect of things, never fear, as there are lots of ways you can still enjoy yourself on a small budget. One thing to do is look for accommodation that comes with a small fridge and a cooker so that you can cook some of your meals there and don’t have to fork out for restaurants every night. Another way is to stop yourself going for huge days out shopping and overspending on clothes and shoes, instead opting to spend your limited funds on tours and admissions to places of interest. You can shop anywhere, but you can only see the country you are in while you’re there.

Going travelling is fun, exciting, and character building, so it is definitely worth the time and money. Why don’t you start planning now?

Four Tricks to Stay Comfortable and Look Fashionable While Traveling in an RV

When you’re renting an RV, there’s a lot of planning to do! Not only do you have to think about the kind of RV you want to rent, you have to think about where you and your family are headed, and you have to think about what you’re going to do when you get there.
You also have to think about what you’re going to wear.

You obviously won’t want to bring your stilettos and your little black dress, but that doesn’t mean you want to wear grass-stained sneakers and a holey T-shirt either!

Here are four tips for staying comfortable, but still looking fashionable, when you’re hitting the road in an RV.

Go for a Comfort Waistband

You’re going to spend a lot of time sitting in the RV, so you will want to make sure you aren’t wearing pants that are uncomfortable. Chances are, that means reaching for pants with a comfort waistband instead of constricting jeans.

From floral pajama pants to jogging pants, you have many options, and with the right accessories, they can look very stylish. Yoga pants are also an option, especially if you choose high-quality yoga pants in a dark color, like black or navy.

Know How to Wear Your Hair

Traveling in an RV is not the time for curls or elaborate hairstyles. You’ll want to keep your hair out of the way, especially if it’s going to be hot.

Keep the curling iron at home, and instead bring along items that can be used to cover your hair. If you’re going for a stylish look, avoid the baseball cap. Instead, learn how to tie up your hair in a turban, or use a head scarf. If you like the idea of a hat, reach for a fedora or a floppy hat.

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Choose the Right Layering Items

The quickest and easiest way to look fashionable is to layer. It’s also the best way to ensure you’re comfortable! That means bringing wardrobe staples on your RV adventure that include:

• Tank tops
• T-shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Scarves
• Jackets

To keep from overpacking your suitcase, reach for neutral items that can easily be mixed and matched. That way you only have to bring one or two of each item, but you’ll still have a comfortable outfit that looks put together.

Bring the Right Shoes
Planning an RV vacation is the perfect excuse to go out and buy some new shoes! You’re looking for a pair that is cute, but is also comfortable to walk in.

Look for a pair of tennis shoes that can go from a hike on the trail to a casual dinner in a restaurant. You should also look for a pair of sandals that are as comfortable at the beach as they are exploring shops in town.

You can look put together and comfortable at the same time, even if you are traveling in an RV. You just have to follow the easy-to-follow tips on this list!

Travel Planning To Greece (Guest Post)

Planning for your next vacation can be both a fun and stressful time, especially if you are planning on visiting a new country. Perhaps you are bored of the countryside back home or the standard beach holidays in the U.S.?. Maybe you want to find something new and exciting such as some mykonos vacation rental, or the temples of Athens, but you are not sure where to start or how you would even navigate around a new country.

For this piece, we are going to look at Greece as a destination for new visitors. Perhaps some returning visitors will also find it useful. We have come up with some facts about the country that can help you, along with some of the most popular destinations. Also, you will find out how you can get to them and what there is to see in each location. We will focus on the most popular destinations and with this, you can make some detailed and informative travel plans for yourself.

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Some facts and figures:

The national language of Greece is Greek, with many areas having their own regional dialects. These are only spoken and not written dialects, however, in more popular tourist locations you will be able to find information, guides and tours in an abundance of languages with English being the most predominant.

The country has over 2,000 islands off the coast of Greece. Many of these islands are uninhabited, and even fewer are visited by tourist but in this location.  You can find an abundance of water and outdoor activities, along with plenty more activities to that can take place on the beach or on the mainland within the national parks.

Some 98% of the population say that they are Orthodox Christia, and this influence you will see in the architecture, conversations, and politics of the country.

Transport and accommodation are readily available in the tourist areas of the country. This can range from a basic hostel room to 5-star resorts and villas depending on the location and your budget. Athens acts as the main transport hub and we will talk about that next.

Athens:

Besides the islands of Greece, Athens is the most popular destination for visitors in Greece.  It is the place you will most likely disembark from international, and most national flights. Athens can be used as the transport base or the rest of the country or can be the sole destination that you visit, as it has a lot to offer.

It is both the largest city and the capital of the country. Athens has plenty to offer any visitor to the city. It is very modern and has everything a major city has to offer from accommodations to local and international cuisine, and more.
From Athens, you can take day trips to surrounding areas such as Cape Sounion, the home of the temple of Poseidon, and Acropolis, the ancient seat of Greek power. The city has done a great job of preserving its ancient history and developing a modern city.

Transport to the island or the mountainous north can be easily organized as part of a tour or individually depending on your time and organizational skills. Some of the islands can also be reached from the airport in Athens.

The islands of Greece:

As stated earlier, most of the islands can be reached by ferries which disembark from ports along the Greek coast, while some of the larger islands can be reached by plane or once on the island, by internal ferries.

Crete: 

This is the biggest of all the islands, and is reached by both boat and ferry. Most popular for its beaches and nightlife, you will find plenty to keep you occupied. Water sports varying from fishing to diving can be organized from the island as well as trips to other islands. Many posts recommend anything from one to two weeks on the island, depending on your interests. Other popular activities include checking out the many museums on the island, and the hiking trails that criss-cross the island.

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Rhodes:

Probably most famous for its history and as being the home to the statue of Rhodes, this island caters more for the history buffs among you who also enjoy the sun all year. The medieval city and the museums are the most popular destinations.

Following this, you can search the cobbled streets for some local cuisine and wine with each island having their own special blends and flavors. With influences of Roman, Greek and Byzantine history, or those wanting to relax and unwind with the more tranquil island experience, this I the island for you. Rhodes is most easily accessed by ferry with daily departures.

Mykonos:

A beach and nightlife haven, Mykonos is an ever the prime destination for those who want to have the more popular Mediterranean experience of lazy beach days, and exciting nightlife opportunities. With countless beaches and inlets to discover, you can spend a few weeks here on a different beachs and secluded areas.

Be sure to check out the windmills and local food tours, which are some of the most popular activities to get up to on the island. This island is best reached by ferry.

We hope some of the information we have provided helps you with your travel planning and first visit to Greece. It will more than likely not be your last!

Plan Your Summer Vacation At The Caravelle Resort In Myrtle Beach

In the event you are planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, SC, I wanted to share the latest updates from Vacation Myrtle Beach.

Vacation Myrtle Beach, one of the largest hotel groups in the Myrtle Beach area, featuring 14 oceanfront properties and nearly 4,000 accommodation units, is proud to reveal the renovation of The Caravelle Resort building accommodations, just in time for the 2018 summer travel season.

The Caravelle’s massive renovation project showcases hundreds of revamped guest rooms to include brand-new contemporary furniture, bedding, kitchens, and guest room bathrooms. This includes the highly-popular and unique Oceanfront Jacuzzi Suites, which each feature a luxurious Jacuzzi tub, two bathrooms, full kitchen, oceanfront balcony and king bed - all of which are newly renovated.

The top-rated Santa Maria Restaurant also features new renovations, welcoming guests for breakfast, lunch and in-season dinner prepared by an award-winning chef and his team.

“We believe all of our guests will be absolutely delighted with these renovations,” says Matt Klugman, director of sales and marketing for Vacation Myrtle Beach.  “The Caravelle Resort has always been a favorite of families and couples among the oceanfront hotels here along the Grand Strand.  The new room upgrades and enhancements will make family vacations and couple getaways an experience that they’ll happily remember for some time to come.”

For families and couples in need of a uniquely memorable vacation, The Caravelle Resort offers an impressive oceanfront location on the famous Golden Mile in Myrtle Beach.  Families and couples will now enjoy spacious and well-appointed main building guest rooms, as well as an impressive range of extraordinary resort features, including plenty of water amenities for all ages.

For more information or to book your summer vacation, visit VacationMyrtleBeach.com or call 855-285-4416.

The Best Summer Countdown Sale Begins In Myrtle Beach, SC

Raise your hand if you're ready for summer! *both hands raised* In case you are in the summer vacation planning stage, you should check out what Vacation Myrtle Beach is offering.

Splash Into Savings At Vacation Myrtle Beach Properties

Vacation Myrtle Beach, one of the largest hotel groups in the Myrtle Beach area, featuring 14 oceanfront properties and nearly 4,000 accommodation units, launches its best ever Summer Countdown Sale where the longer you stay, the more you save!

“It’s time to plan your summer vacation and prepare to enjoy the best of the beach life.  If you’re dreaming of a beach getaway filled with sun, fun, and amazing adventures, it’s waiting for you here in beautiful Myrtle Beach, South Carolina,” stated Matt Klugman, director of sales & marketing for Vacation Myrtle Beach.  “And, with our Countdown to Summer Sale, you’ll be able to take advantage of the very best prices and special summer season deals at all of our Vacation Myrtle Beach oceanfront resorts.”

To maximize savings with The Summer Countdown Sale, here are the details:

• The longer you stay, the more you save (save up to 44% if you stay 3 nights, 48% if you stay 4 nights, 50% if you stay 5 nights, 52% if you stay 6 nights)
• The Summer Countdown Sale applies to reservations made between March 15-29, 2018 (for travel during the summer months) 
• Guests may add “Buy 1 Get 1 Free” waterpark tickets to their reservation and save up to 75% on resort credits
• The 14 Vacation Myrtle Beach properties offering The Summer Countdown Sale include:

Beach Colony Resort – BeachColony.com
Beach Cove Resort – BeachCove.com
Captain’s Quarters Resort – CaptainsQuarters.com
The Caravelle Resort – TheCaravelle.com
Carolina Winds Resort – CarolinaWinds.com
Crown Reef Beach Resort and Waterpark – CrownReef.com (You can check out my review here)
Forest Dunes Resort – ForestDunes.com
hotel BLUE – hotelBLUEmb.com
Landmark Resort – LandmarkResort.com
Ocean Creek Resort – OceanCreek.com
Palace Resort – PalaceResort.com
Palms Resort – PalmsResort.com
Sea Watch Resort – SeaWatchResort.com
South Wind on the Ocean – TheSouthWind.com

Beautiful weather, championship golf, shows, activities, Southern cooking, and more… why wait a moment longer?  Plan your summer vacation and choose from 14 oceanfront properties offered by Vacation Myrtle Beach with this limited time sale. 
For more information, visit VacationMyrtleBeach.com or call 855-285-4416.

About VacationMyrtleBeach.com Resorts
VacationMyrtleBeach.com is the official vacation site of Myrtle Beach, S.C., offering the guaranteed lowest rate on nearly 4,000 accommodations units, ranging from studios and efficiencies to one-bedroom suites and two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom condos. VacationMyrtleBeach.com resorts also offer a wide range of award-winning properties and Myrtle Beach's best on-site amenities including pools, water parks, lazy rivers, whirlpools, restaurants, oceanfront pool bars, bowling center, tennis center, racquetball courts, fitness rooms, miniature golf course and even South Carolina’s first swim-up pool bar. Ask about our special rates for accommodations and meeting space for retreats, meetings, and conferences. 

Things To Do In Orlando That Are Cheaper Than Theme Parks

Are you considering a trip to the Central Florida/Orlando, Florida area this coming Spring Break? You might want to check out these great ideas for places to visit and things to do that won't break the bank they way the theme parks can easily do. 

SAVE MORE AND DO MORE DURING SPRING BREAK IN ORLANDO NORTH

When planning a Spring Break getaway to the Central Florida theme parks you can save more and double the fun by selecting lodgings and add-on recreation in “Orlando North, Seminole County.”  Here your guestroom averages 40% less than those by the attractions, all hotels offer free parking, there are no long restaurant waits, and you're a short drive away from: 

• Walt Disney World® - 45 minutes
• Universal Orlando® - 30 minutes
• Sea World® - 30 minutes
• Wet ‘N Wild® - 30 minutes
• Kennedy Space Center - 60 minutes
• Daytona Beach - 45 minutes
• Downtown Orlando - 20 minutes

And throughout Orlando North Seminole County there’s lots of family-friendly fun that’s a fractional cost of a day at the theme parks:

• At Planet Obstacle, kid-friendly activities include a kids’ ninja course, trampolines, bungees, ball pits and bumper cars, while adults can enjoy an aerial ropes course, an extreme zip-line, an adult ninja course, a giant rock-climbing wall and more. Planet Obstacle, 1150 Emma Oaks Trail, Lake Mary, FL. http://planetobstacle.com
• Little girls will love Judy’s Dolls Middleton Newborn Nursery Adoption Center, with an adoption ceremony providing a chance to bond with her new infant baby doll, pick out its first outfit and feel the joy, of becoming a new “parent.” Judy’s Dolls, 280 W. Warren Ave. Longwood, FL. https://judysdolls.com/.  
• Stargazing and interactive shows at the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College in Sanford. For info on planetarium events visit Facebook.com/SeminolePlanet.
• U-Pick Strawberries at Pappy’s Patch. 700 Florida Ave., Oviedo, FL. Check out their Facebook page: Pappys-Patch-U-Pick-Strawberries.
• Reach new heights at the Aiguille Rock Climbing Center. 999 Charles St., Longwood, FL. http://www.aiguille.com/
• Artistic talents emerge at Hot Pots, where kids paint and decorate their own ceramics, from piggy banks to figurines, cups, vases and more. Hot Pots, 1071 WP Ball Blvd., Sanford, FL. http://www.hotpotssanford.com/
• Enjoy a thrilling airboat ride with Black Hammock Adventures, on Lake Jesup and learn about the eco system and the birds and beasts who call it home. 2356 Black Hammock Fish Camp Rd., Oviedo, FL. www.blackhammockairboatrides.com
• Cool down at Wekiva Island where the river is a constant 72 degrees. Swim, canoe, kayak, paddleboard, volleyball, fish or just plain relax. Wekiva Island, 1014 Miami Springs Rd., Longwood, FL http://wekivaisland.com/
• Get up close and personal with wildlife at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, where you can even participate in giraffe feedings. Also at the zoo is ZOOm Air Adventures a zip line adventure course that allows guests to explore perfect natural habitats from an animal’s perspective—in the air traveling from tree to tree by zip lines and suspended rope bridges. 3755 US 17, Sanford, FL. www.centralfloridazoo.org.
• Enjoy the playground and watch youth, collegiate and non-professional teams playing at the 102-acre Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County. 3450 E. Lake Mary Blvd., Sanford, FL. www.PlayOrlandoNorth.com.
• Seminole County is also home to some of Florida’s best natural attractions, including the Wekiva River, one of only two National & Wild Scenic Rivers in the entire state of Florida, the St. Johns River, Wekiva Springs State Park and Lake Jesup to name just a few. With more than 30 parks and preserves the area is a favorite destination for hiking, biking, bird watching, wildlife study, nature photography and more. There’s something for everyone whether you are a nature lover or adventure seeker.

About Orlando North, Seminole County:

A short drive from all the major attractions of Central Florida and home to Orlando Sanford International Airport, Orlando North, Seminole County offers first-rate accommodations for less, varied meeting & event venues, and diverse dining and shopping in its charming communities. Known as “Orlando’s Natural Oasis,” the destination offers visitors a wide array of thrilling outdoor activities from an aerial adventure course with zip lining to paddling alongside manatees in clear freshwater springs and rivers. Long known as an exciting and affordable meetings/groups destination, Orlando North also offers an array of sports and training facilities, including the new 102-acre Seminole County Sports Complex. For destination information call 1-800-800-7832 or 407-665-2900 or visit www.DoOrlandoNorth.com.

Crown Reef Resort & Waterpark Myrtle Beach Is Your Off-Season Family Vacation Destination

Although the weather is cooling down quite a bit, it never stops my family from traveling to Myrtle Beach. The beach is my family's happy place, and not matter the weather, you can find us there numerous times throughout the year. Our favorite months to visit are between November-March during the off-season. Most people assume because it's colder during that time, that we are nuts. What they don't realize is that Myrtle Beach has so much to offer year 'round. 

Our latest Myrtle Beach adventure landed us at the Crown Reef Resort & Waterpark. When we first pulled up to the resort, we were in shock by how enormous the property was. Check-in is done across the street at their conference center. The process was very quick, and the staff members were quite friendly and happy to answer all of our questions. We received our room keys, wristbands for the pool and waterpark, as well as a much needed map of the property, We headed back across the street to their oceanfront property to park in the covered garage. 

We stayed in the third building on the eleventh floor. It was the perfect spot that offered amazing panoramic views of the entire beach! As we entered our oceanfront suite, we were greeting with a lovely beach bag filled with some goodies for my family. It was such a nice, personal touch! We immediately noticed the pretty towel swans that were placed on both of the queen beds in the bedroom. 

The bedroom was spacious and had plenty of storage space for our clothing and personal items. It had a flat screen television, as well as its own heating and air conditioning unit. There were ample pillows and extra blankets for the living area beds. 

As you leave the bedroom, you walk into the kitchen area with a full bathroom on the opposite side. The bathroom was a good size and it had ample vanity space, light, and a  separate door for the toilet/shower area. I wasn't sure how 5 people were going to share the one bathroom, but we managed just fine. There were plenty of fresh towels available for us. 

We really loved the full kitchen. It helps a lot when you are traveling with a larger family since eating out can really add up. We brought some of our own groceries and made good use of all the appliances. It comes equipped with all of the basic pots, pans, dishware, utensils, and drinkware. It's like having a piece of home on vacation, and is such a great convenience. 

Once you exit the kitchen, you enter the living and dining area. The space was large enough for all of us to gather, yet had a warm and cozy feel. The sofa bed and murphy bed were perfect for extra sleeping space. This unit could sleep up to 8 people. Once you were up in the morning, all you had to do was push the bed back into the sofa and the murphy bed back up in the wall. Makes me want a murphy bed in my own house, because it is such a space saver. 

Let me tell you, the views are incredible. You can't get any better than standing out on your private balcony taking in the sights and sounds of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. It's the best thing ever! Life has been so stressful lately, and just sitting out there looking at the moon at night and the sunrise in the morning was therapeutic.  

We didn't come all the way to Crown Reef Resort just to sit in our room, we came for some family fun. Having two adult children with their own busy lives, it's not often we get to all come together for some family time. We ventured around the property to check out all of the amenities, and were blown away. There is SO much to do to a point where you really have no reason to leave the resort at all. Crown Reef has so many beautiful pools, whirlpools, sun decks, and the longest lazy river in Myrtle Beach. I wish I had my waterproof cover on my phone so I could have taken some video while we were in there. It was awesome! 

During the warmer months, they have a walk-up poolside bar offering a variety of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Whether you want a frosty hurricane or just a simple diet cola, they've got you covered. So as you're sipping on your beverage, you can listen to the sounds of the ocean while relaxing. If privacy is more your thing, you can head up to the sun deck and enjoy the oceanfront views from above. 

The pool areas were all so beautiful and very well kept. We noticed a lot of friendly staff members everywhere we went. You can tell that a lot goes into running that place. They had so many patio chairs so there was ample space to accommodate a lot of people. I could totally see having birthday parties, graduation parties, or other big events there. It is very family friendly, so that is a plus.

These two boys were so excited to hop into every one of the pools!

One of the favorites of Crown Reef is the waterpark. The Crown Reef Resort Waterpark towers nearly 40 feet above the ground and features a 278-foot long two-person tube waterslide, a single-person 302-foot long waterslide and an 8-foot tall 20-foot long slide for the little ones! We put in a lot of steps that day making it up the stairs so we could slide over, and over again. The adults all felt like big kids. We all laughed ourselves to tears because we were having so much fun!

And if the pools weren't enough, the arcade at The Town Center gave us even more giggles. They had so many fun games for all ages. My family enjoyed shooting some hoops, doing a little target practice, and some fun classic games like air hockey and skee-ball. There is a kiosk in the front of the arcade where you can load a game card right from your credit/debit card or by using cash. The girls stopped by the Swirl Ice Cream And Sweet Shop for a couples scoops of their favorite ice cream.

If you're hungry and need a bite to eat, they have you covered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Loco Gecko Beach Shack offers oceanfront dining for lunch and dinner. They have plenty of choices including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and wraps. They have a full bar, and even flat screen televisions where you could watch the game and feel the cool ocean breeze at the same time. They have these cool clear doors that can be lowered or raised like garage doors if it gets too chilly. The fact that they are clear does not obstruct your ocean views.

You can grab breakfast at the Grab n’ Go Grill and Coffee Bar. They have quite a spread with plenty of choices to satisfy everyone's taste. The service was excellent, and the staff was so friendly and attentive. It was so nice to enjoy my morning coffee and breakfast while looking out at the beautiful beach. Again, you really don't have to leave the resort if you don't want to. We stayed put our entire stay. Everything we needed was on site. They even offer laundry facilities, and have a little store where you can purchase snacks and other items.

Crown Reef Resort gets 5 stars from my family and here is why:

• Family-friendly and clean environment 
• The entire resort is oceanfront, including dining areas
• Courteous and helpful staff
• Excellent location, and close to attractions and activities
• Rooms and suites offer many conveniences of home
• Parking and elevators weren't a problem
• Great value for the rates they charge
• Plenty of amenities, and the best pools we have ever seen at Myrtle Beach
• The beach access was much nicer and easier to maneuver compared to other places we have stayed. 
• Reasonably priced food and drinks

If you're thinking of a beach destination for an off-season vacation, Crown Reef Resort in Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice. The weather is a lot better than the northern states, and you will have to beach all to yourself (or so it feels). If you are a Groupon member, you can find some amazing deals for Crown Reef, so be sure to check it out. We were not disappointed with our stay, and look forward to going back early next year.

Be sure to stop by the Crown Reef Resort site so you can book your vacation. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Be warned: seeing all of the beautiful photos from the property will make you want to hop in your car and GO! 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Vacation Myrtle Beach and Crown Reef Resort & Waterpark for hosting our family. All opinions stated are my own. 

Give the Gift of Fun With LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Deals From Black Friday - Cyber Monday

This holiday shopping season, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is giving thanks to fans with an awesome assortment of deals and discounts starting on Black Friday (Friday, Nov. 25) and continuing through Cyber Monday (Monday, Nov. 28).

Brick FridayThat’s right — instead of one can’t-miss deal on each of the traditional days for extraordinary savings, the place #BuiltForKids is launching multiple, simultaneous offers on the day we’ve dubbed Brick Friday. Give the gift of fun with savings on everything from multiple-use tickets to annual passes, and stays at the popular LEGOLAND Hotel and the eagerly awaited LEGOLAND Beach Retreat.

Here’s what’s in store:

Visit twice and the second day is free!

Purchase a theme park ticket for the low price of $71 (plus tax) to enjoy all the festive fun of our annual holiday party, Christmas Bricktacular, then come back for free to “become the ninja” when the all-new LEGO® NINJAGO® World opens Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017!

This exclusive ticket only can be purchased online and cannot be combined with other offers or transferred to existing reservations. The first theme park visit must occur Dec. 17-18, 24-31, and the second visit must occur between Jan. 1 and April 6, 2017. Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park is not included. Maximum six tickets per purchase.

Get an Awesomer Annual Pass at the Awesome Pass price!

Purchase an Awesomer Annual Pass (valued at $149 plus tax) for the Awesome Annual Pass price of $99 plus tax — a $50 savings! Benefits include a year of unlimited admission to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, LEGOLAND Water Park, The Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando, and Atlanta’s LEGOLAND Discovery Center.

You also get free parking, a collector’s edition welcome kit, early access to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, a 10 percent discount on theme park dining, retail purchases, stays at LEGOLAND Hotel and the all-new LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, VIP Experiences, Premium Upgrades and Premium Play Bands, plus $15 off theme park tickets for up to six guests.

The special $99 price is only available online and is valid only for new annual pass purchases and cannot be combined with other offers. Maximum six Awesomer Annual Passes per purchase. Please note that passes must be activated in person at the theme park within 60 days of purchase.

Annual passholders save big at LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat!

Current annual passholders can save 30 percent off a stay at the “Five-Gazillion-Star” LEGOLAND Hotel, including all room types and themes, and the whimsical bungalows at LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, which is set to open in mid-2017. This unbeatable deal is valid for LEGOLAND Hotel stays from Jan. 1 through April 6, 2017, and for LEGOLAND Beach Retreat stays from June 1 through Sept. 3, 2017.

These discounts cannot be combined with other offers or transferred to existing reservations. An active annual pass must be presented at check-in to receive the discounted rate.

Stay awhile and save!

Meanwhile, through the end of December, non-passholders can take 20 percent off an exclusive room-and-ticket package for stays at LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat.

Each package requires a minimum two-night stay and includes a two-day ticket to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park per person, with the second day free! Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park is sold separately.

Stays at both accommodations include a buffet breakfast each morning for all guests listed on the reservation (not including check-in day) and exclusive early access to the theme park.

The 20 percent discount is available for LEGOLAND Hotel packages from Jan. 2 through May 26, 2017, and for LEGOLAND Beach Retreat packages from June 1 through Sept. 3, 2017. Be sure to check the resort’s operating calendar online before booking as the theme park is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays during select seasons.

The fine print:

To be among the first to participate in these incredible deals, sign up now at www.LEGOLAND.com/brickfriday. Everyone signed up as of Thursday, Nov. 24 will receive an email with links to the eligible offers starting Friday, Nov. 25.

All offers are subject to limited availability and may sell out. Note that due to fraud protections, the same credit card cannot be used more than once within a 24-hour period, so shop wisely!

For more information about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP Experiences, Premium Upgrades, military discounts, on-site accommodations and much more, visit www.LEGOLAND.com/florida.

Where Do The Smart Families Go When They Visit The UK?

Little old England. It’s a place that many of us want to visit at some point if we haven’t been already. But where should we go once we reach the island’s shores? After all, there are so many places to see and things to do crammed into such as tiny space. Here’s where the smart families go when they visit the UK.

Yorkshire

Why do so many visitors flock to Yorkshire each year? Well, there really is no place like in on Earth. Yorkshire is an area renowned for its strong identity and culture. This is a place where you’ll find some of the best restaurants and attractions in the country. In fact, there are more Michelin-starred restaurants per head here than in any other part of the country.

The great thing about Yorkshire is that it is full of wide open spaces and even a couple of wildernesses. North Yorkshire is far from the hustle and bustle of life in the South East. If you visit, make sure you go to the North York Moors. Here you’ll experience what it truly means to traverse an English wilderness. The Moors themselves are all but deserted. To the south, you’ll find little market towns, like Pickering and Malton. And you can stop off her for a classic pub lunch or fish and chips. The perfect finish to a family adventure.

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If you prefer, you can swap the bleak beauty of the Moors, for the lush, sweeping valleys of the Dales. The Dales are about fifty miles to the West of the Moors. Yet this is a landscape with an utterly different feel and character. It’s also the home of Wensleydale cheese. There’s a good lad, Gromit!

Blackpool

Blackpool has been drawing in the crowds for well over a hundred years now. And the coastal seaside town is still going strong as the UK’s most famous family resort. Blackpool tourism is fuelled by a combination of the beach, the attractions, and the rides. The seafront is littered with arcades and amusements for all the family. Many Brits make a habit of going to Blackpool every year because there is nothing quite like it. It’s a must-visit on any whistlestop tour of the UK.

But Blackpool isn’t just about getting an adrenaline fix or a tan. It is also a town that knows how to put on a show. Every year thousands of people flock to see shows on everything from magic to hypnotism. There is something for everybody in your family.

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Lake District 

The Lake District is the UK’s finest exhibition of natural beauty. Here you’ll find the country’s biggest lakes and tallest mountains. But you’ll also find a charm and at atmosphere which is verging on the magical. The Lake District, a couple of hours drive north of Blackpool, covers an area about twice the size of London. Packed into this small space are thousands of hotels and pubs, waiting to meet the needs of tourists.

This is the type of place that you go if you’re a family that loves adventure. Here you’ll find some of the best walking in the whole of Britain. You can walk around any one of a dozen lakes, including Windermere and Derwentwater. Or you can climb a mountain trail, what the Brits call footpaths, for stunning views. The best views can be had from the top of Catbells near Derwentwater and the Old Man near Coniston.

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The Lake District was a place that inspired the famous eighteenth-century poet, William Wordsworth. The grandeur of the lakes inspired Wordsworth to put its majesty into words. Now there’s a museum in the small town of Cockermouth, dedicated to his legacy.

Suffolk

If you want a UK beach holiday, Suffolk is the place to go. It’s far enough from London to avoid the crowds. And it hosts some of the UK’s finest seaside towns. There are no doubt, places in the world with better weather. But if you want to go to beaches with real history and charm, you can’t beat Suffolk. Frinton is a popular destination on the Suffolk coast. At this old Quaker town, you’ll find a sandy beach with a long promenade. There is a fish and chip shop, of course. And plenty of space to park. Go further up the coast, and you’ll end up at Southwold. This has a stony beach. But it’s an area famous for its amber jewelry.

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Finally, you can visit the Broads. Here’s a place where the family can get up close with nature. It’s one of the UK’s richest areas of wildlife. Here you can get up close with hundreds of rare species.

Avista Resort In Myrtle Beach Review

If you are planning a trip to the beach on the east coast, I have the perfect place to suggest. Avista Resort (part of the Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts family) is located in what I call the perfect area of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It is the perfect combination of slower-paced along with a splash of the touristy feel. The property is beautiful and offers ocean front living along with so many great amenities. The check-in process is super simple and they offer advance check-in online to make things even quicker. You can count on a courteous welcome from a staff that goes above and beyond to make sure you are happy. You know the old saying about first impressions being everything? Yeah, they have that down. Once you are checked in, you are handed your keys, parking pass(es) and basic information about the resort offerings. Parking is located across the street in a stand-alone parking garage. Honestly, it is no problem at all and is a quick hop, skip and a jump away.

You can stay in 1, 2 or 3 bedroom condos all fully furnished and equipped with a full kitchen, washer/dryer and more. It's like staying at home which is perfect for larger families. The units are spacious and offer magnificent views of the ocean. We stayed there during a busy time to celebrate our little guy's 8th birthday. The layout of the building actually made you feel like there was no crowd. One of the number one things that we liked was the security. It has all indoor entry and the way the units are laid out, it is very private. Also, very clean. There are 3 elevators which made it easier to get around. It was fun talking to different people on the elevator rides.

The nice thing about the Avista is that you really don't have to leave the property during your stay. With a full kitchen including microwave, stove, oven, and dishwasher, you can prepare meals there at your leisure.

If you don't want to cook, you can head down to the Just Off Main restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner. We had the breakfast buffet and can't stop thinking about how well the staff treated us. It felt like we were the ONLY guests there. The food exceeded our expectations and to my surprise, the coffee did as well. The staff checked on us to make sure we satisfied and never short on beverages or anything else. This was one of the best dining experiences we have ever had.

The Avista has the most gorgeous pool deck I've seen. We stayed way up on the 16th floor and overlooked the outdoor pools. You really don't appreciate the beauty of it until you walk down there. I liked the fact that there was a staff member down there at all times making sure the space was clean and inviting. We loved that there was an indoor pool, lazy river and hot tub since it did rain while we were there. They kept the pool towels well stocked and the area was large enough to make it not feel crowded. We really enjoyed it, especially the birthday boy.

We had easy access to the beach where we enjoyed exploring as well as some family shenanigans. I'm 100% sure that time at the ocean will take away all your troubles. It renews your soul. I think every person I made eye contact with had a smile on their face. Beach = Therapy.

One of our favorite amenities was the Tree Top Lounge located on the 4th floor. On our walk that way, we passed a fully equipped gym. It was far from the one treadmill, one elliptical set-up that most resorts offer. The space could easily accommodate multiple guests at once. Back to the lounge... this spot was perfect for a quick 21+ date. My husband and I snuck down there for a few cocktails and conversation. It was great! They have music, a pool table and plenty of seating available. They have a strict 21 and over policy which we saw it being enforced first hand. The drinks were everything and they were so reasonably priced at just $5 each. The bartender Louise aka "Weezie" came over to our table and made conversation with us. Again, we felt like the only guests in the room.

Let's talk about the bedrooms. Each room was tastefully decorated and offered ample space and storage. The bathrooms were well stocked with towels and basic toiletries, and were sparkling clean. As a matter of fact, everything about the Avista was clean and well maintained. Our son claimed the sofa bed and enjoys having his own space. I think he also loves having his own TV and access to free movie rentals. I think he watched 3 movies during our stay. Another great perk, especially if it's raining. One of those make-it-or-break-it things when it comes to staying at any hotel or resort is how comfortably we sleep. The beds were so comfy and the pillows were too. I usually travel with my own personal pillow and forgot it this time. Now I know not to bother bringing one next time. Part of a comfortable rest is also determined by noise. We heard none of that. No doors slamming, no elevator sounds, no loud music or talking. It was so quiet and peaceful. Our next door neighbors had 5 kids under 8 including a newborn and toddler, and you would never have known.

The Avista Resort is hands down the best place we have ever stayed in Myrtle Beach. We are already planning our next vacation there and look forward to going back. We are officially spoiled and can't imagine staying anywhere else. We all agreed that this was the most relaxing and enjoyable beach trip ever. We made great memories and look forward to many more in the future. This location is so close to many restaurants, attractions, shopping and more.

The Avista Resort is located at 300 N. Ocean Boulevard North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. Phone: (855) 710-4941. You can easily book online and if you need to make any changes, and one of their friendly staff members will get you set up with no problem. If you want an ocean view from the master suite, make sure you look at the map of each condo or call in to ask. You can follow Avista Resort on Facebook and Twitter for promotions and updates.

I received a small discount to stay at the Avista Resort and all opinions are my own as always. Even if I paid full price, my opinions would be the same.