Hey Adventure parents, do you need a break from the kayaking and biking and other outdoor adventures you are having with the family? Looking for some chill, educational family entertainment that still has a big wow factor. How about some fun time at the aquarium?
There are several amazing aquariums around the world that are great options for a family outing. Here are some renowned aquariums that that families around the world love:
Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta, Georgia, USA)
One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Georgia Aquarium offers a diverse collection of marine life, including whale sharks, beluga whales, sea otters, and penguins. It’s an educational and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.
Monterey Bay Aquarium (Monterey, California, USA)
Situated on the stunning California coastline, the Monterey Bay Aquarium focuses on the marine life found in the nearby Pacific Ocean. The exhibits showcase a variety of sea creatures, and the facility is known for its dedication to marine conservation. Click for Self-Guided tour around Monterey Bay
Or find a hotel in the area:
Vancouver Aquarium (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
Located in beautiful Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is a top-notch facility featuring diverse marine habitats and a strong focus on wildlife conservation. It offers interactive displays and opportunities to get up close with marine animals.
Aquarium of the Pacific (Long Beach, California, USA)
This aquarium is known for its expansive and diverse exhibits representing the Pacific Ocean’s ecosystems. Visitors can see sharks, jellyfish, sea lions, and other fascinating marine life. The facility also has engaging educational programs. Click here for tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Okinawa, Japan)
Located in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, this aquarium features one of the largest tanks in the world, known for housing whale sharks. It also showcases various marine habitats from the region and highlights the unique aquatic life of the area.
Part of the Dubai Mall, this impressive aquarium has a massive tank where visitors can walk through a tunnel, surrounded by sharks, rays, and other marine species. The Underwater Zoo offers additional exhibits and interactive experiences.
Sydney Sea Life Aquarium (Sydney, Australia)
Situated in Darling Harbour, this aquarium showcases the rich marine biodiversity of Australia. It features an array of native marine species, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful reef fish.
The Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, designed to mimic various ocean habitats. It houses marine life from different regions, and its central tank is mesmerizing with its diversity of species.
When choosing an aquarium for your family trip, consider factors like location, available exhibits, educational programs, interactive activities, and the overall experience that each one offers. Enjoy your time exploring the wonders of the underwater world with your family!
As a one time 19-year-old lifeguard and now a, er, not so 19-year-old parent, I’d like to give you, my fellow parents, the straight scoop.
Even as a teenager, it amazed me just how lackadaisical some parents can be about watching their kids around the water. And that’s putting it nicely. So here’s what I wished parents knew from my days of being on the frontlines of water safety:
Water can be deadly
It’s no joke. Kids can drown in a very shallow pool of water. Never take your eyes off them, even if they know how to swim.
I know you really want you to be able gab with your friends or chill by the waterside and read your book. You deserve it. But sorry, you have a kid with you. There’s a reason we require that small children be accompanied by a guardian. So put the book away. Listen to an audio book on your phone or listen to music instead so you can keep your eyes on your kids. As for gabbing, you can still do it, just do that weird eyes on the water thing while talking to your friend thing that parents do. If your friend thinks you are rude for not looking at her while you are talking to her, get new friends. And it would be a great idea to take this water safety for parents class through the Red Cross.
I am probably a teenager, maybe early twenties. Capish?
I know you are thinking, well the lifeguard is getting paid to make sure no harm comes to my child while I’m at the beach. She SHOULD be watching my child. But let me ask you this. Do you know me? Do you really know how responsible I am?
Chances are I’m very responsible but you don’t know that for sure. Even on a good day I might be a little distracted thinking about some guy or girl I’m crushing on, where I’m going to college, that party I’m going to tonight, etc. So you know that innocent creature you gave birth to, nurtured for years, invested in and will invest an immense amount more of your love and time, do you really want to just assume I am watching them like you would? Word to the wise, in your mind, pretend I’m not here and be your own lifeguard.
Keep your eyes on your kids the way you want me to. I’m probably doing everything right, but if I’m not, there’s no second chances. No do-overs. I screw up and miss your child drowning, not only do I have to live with the repercussions but you do too. Be smart and don’t put me to the test.
Don’t ask me to watch your child so you can go to the bathroom
Are you kidding me? Do you not see the 50 bobbing heads in the water I can’t take my eyes off of while you have to go pee. You are certainly taking your chances leaving them in the water while I’m watching the other 49 bobbing heads, but now you want me to watch your beachside kids too? And what am I supposed to do if they start misbehaving, or run off? Should I jump down from my chair to chase after them?
Use some commonsense. Don’t ask me to watch your kids. Take them with you to the bathroom, call them out of the water if you have to. Pack em up and take them to the bathhouse, sorry. I know it’s a pain, but if you don’t have another person with you to watch them, it’s what you have to do.
Don’t put things in front of me, including yourself
Don’t put things in my line to the water that can block either my view or get in my way as I jump down unexpectedly and run to the water to assist a swimmer. I need to be going top speed and if I trip over your beach chair, it might mean the difference between life and death for a swimmer.
One time I had two mothers who were annoyed because there was seaweed floating in the water. They took the time to gather it all up on a water float and then dumped it right in front of my lifeguard chair. The were trying to teach me a lesson. One loudly told the other one, “now she’ll have to do something about the seaweed on the water.” I then called my manager and told him what they’d done. I looked at the women and said, “do you think I put the seaweed in the water? Now, what will you do if I have to jump down to save your child and I slip in the seaweed and break my neck instead?
My manager came down, removed the seaweed while I watched the water and informed the two Einsteins that if they did that again and put anyone else at risk because of their behavior, they would lose their membership. And they can go pound sand if they don’t like it.
Keep track of your kids even when they are out of the water
If you lose track of your five-year-old who may have wandered up to the playground or into the woods, and you come and tell me that you can’t find her I have to act immediately. I must assume that she is under the water because if she is, she doesn’t have long before she drowns.
I can’t assume she’s just somewhere out of sight where she can breath. So that means I need to call everyone out of the water, call the other guards and systematically search the water. If we can’t see the bottom it will take some time to search. That means everyone has to stay out of the water until we’re finished. So if I’ve pulled everyone out on a 90 degree day to hunt for your child, and it turns out she was on the swings, you’re going to be super popular. And by the way, you don’t want her to be under that water where we can’t see the bottom. If she’s there, chances are really not good that she’ll come out of it OK. So don’t take your eyes off your kids.
Don’t give me a hard time if I make your kids sit out for a time as punishment for bad behavior
I don’t want to spoil people’s fun. But if your kid is misbehaving it can be distracting and put other kids’ lives in danger. If I pulled them out and make them sit on the beach or pool-side, it’s for a good reason. Take that as your cue to discipline and manage your children so that I don’t have to.
Back me up. If I tell your child to stop doing something, make sure they don’t do it again.
And don’t you do it either. Don’t argue with me in front of your child. I am an authority figure on the beach and I have to maintain order. There are a lot of people watching. I’m not going to just let it slide because that will mean losing respect from the other beach goers and kids in the water. Even if you think I’m wrong, respect my role.
Talk to me or my manager afterward, but don’t start a confrontation with me while I’m in the chair. I can assure you I’m not going to allow it. I’ll ask you to leave or call security or the police if I have to, and I don’t have time to debate with you. I have people’s kids to keep safe.
I’m not just paid to sit in a chair all day. Don’t be jealous.
I know I have an awesome tan and I look good in my lifeguard uniform. I look good probably because I got up this morning and swam or ran or did whatever I’m required to stay in shape in case I have to rescue you. Please understand that I spent all winter training so that I was ready for this job. I’ve got a pocket full of safety certifications. This winter I likely renewed or received a certification in lifeguarding, first aid, water safety, basic life support, and anything else required by your state. And lifeguard training is rigorous. I’ve learned how to drag a guy twice my size out of the water, handle all kinds of emergencies and I’ve swam a lot. Give me some credit. I’m more than just a pretty face twirling a whistle.
People don’t actually yell, “help I’m drowning’ when they are drowning.
They go quiet and keep their mouths shut trying to save that last bit of air. So keep your eyes open especially in the ocean or lake, or anything with an uneven bottom. A kid standing in the water can walk off a ledge and start to struggle in the water. There are countless tales of kids drowning right next to their parents while they chatted away right in the water. They even show us real footage of close calls they’ve captured on beach cams, during our training classes to prove it to us.
Don’t count on arm floaties or rafts
I can’t tell you how many kids I see get in trouble with those stupid floaties that parents have an over-reliance on. They put them on their arms and let them go out past their heads when they know they don’t know how to swim well. Little, plastic, blow up things that can slide off a kids arm, and also impede movement. My personal opinion is I think it’s even harder for a kid to correct themselves when they lose one floatie. Can’t swim right and you are thrown off balance. If you want to use the floaties use them but don’t assume your child is good to go because she has them on. Watch your child in the water as if they have no floaties on. And if we are talking about any body of water with a current, be even more like a hawk because they are likely not going to be able to deal with the current and can float out past the swim area.
Even with a swim vest or jacket, don’t assume they are bulletproof. Some of them still allow a child’s face to go in the water. Kids get tired, throw up, get spooked, anything can happen. So don’t lull yourself into a false sense of security because they have some kind of flotation device. that little bit of plastic shouldn’t be the only thing between child having fun in the water and tragedy. Same goes for rafts. Nothing beats swim lessons. Make sure as young as possible, they get at least basic swim lessons. Babies under one are even easier to teach. They are like little fish because they still remember the womb and so the water doesn’t stress them out. So invest in some kind of lessons before swim season starts.
If you see someone struggling in the water, let me know. Don’t just head in and be a hero
I am trained to handle the situation and I can handle it likely better than you. For example I know that many drownings turn into double drownings because someone went in to try to save someone.
When someone is drowning they are not in their normal state of mind. They are in survival mode. They will grab you and climb on top of you to get to safety, but instead both of you just go under. They also become very strong. The last thing you want to do is let a drowning person get their hands on you in the water. There are ways to get them out of the water safely, for both of you. So I appreciate you want to help, but if you see something, say something. Please.
Also, don’t assume if I don’t go directly into the water, or throw them a ring first, that I’m just lazy or don’t want to do my job. I have a whole scene to be in charge of. I have to go save someone while also deal with the rest of the people in the water. You don’t want one person drowning while I’m off saving another. I may need to radio for support, or at least eyes on the water to a lifeguard in another chair. There may already be a guard closer that I have already signaled to.
In lifeguard class, they teach you to make contact with a person only as the last line of defense. First use something like a buoy or a board to bring to the swimmer and put some distance between you and that person. People under stress can panic and get a burst of adrenaline so it’s best to avoid getting into grabbing range if there’s another way to assist them. A lifeguard may also get closer to a tired swimmer and watch, talking with the swimmer and assess whether they need to get up alongside of them. They are always analyzing the entire scene at the beach as they know things can change in an instant.
Lastly, by all means, think about taking a water safety class so you too can potentially avert a crisis someday if there’s no lifeguard present.
Traveling with kids on an airplane doesn’t have to be a drama. Sure, airports, security, all that, can make for a stress inducing start to a trip, but accept that you’ll get through it and you’ll be fine. Here are some tips to make it easier to get to the finish line–usually a beach somewhere or Grandma’s house.
Consider packing one carry on just for snacks. Since each child can have one carry on as well as you, pick one piece of luggage to store snacks, wipes, plastic forks and spoons, toys.
Even just looking at this picture, gives me a twinge of stress. Even though it’s just a picture. Am I right or am I right?
Good Snacks for the Plane
Fruit if allowed (apples, oranges, pears, peaches, bananas), granola bars, Kind bars, cheese (I brought a big chunk of cheddar and a plastic knife once and that got us through the first half of a trip to Hawaii.), Oatmeal cookies. Now is not the time to make a fuss about their eating habits. It’s all about getting through the day and keeping them from driving you and everyone else crazy on the plane. No I would not recommend this on a normal day, but there is nothing normal about trying to get little kids to manage through hours of sitting still on a plane, in a seat with very little room. So give yourself a break, and pack the Skittles.
Good but Messy Snacks
These of course are kid favorites, but take into account the amount of hours your flight is. Bring these by all means, but resign yourself to the fact that you will be sitting in mounting piles of crumbs once these babies are unleashed. If you can look the flight attendant in the eye after you peel out of the seat, go ahead and pack them. Besides, it’s nothing they haven’t seen before. So pack the crackers, Cheeze Its, cookies, raisins, fruit roll ups, dried fruit, seaweed snacks, graham crackers, cheerios, pretzels, and nuts and make your peace with it.
Toys, Toys, Toys, Did We Mention Toys?
Let there be toys! However, try to bring ones without lots of small parts. Also bring books, cards, stuffed animals (only take a few-they take up space and are easily left behind), simple crafts that can be done on a tray table and don’t have a zillion pieces, or require scissors, better yet, unless you see something that works, skip the crafts as there’s likely no room. If you are in first class, then maybe you can bring the crafts-but keep them simple. Coloring books but prepare to be picking up crayons from weird places for the majority of the trip. I would go as far as tying strings on the crayons and only bringing a few. I’m not kidding.
A Note About Favorite Stuffed Animals
And a reminder about stuffed animals. If you can get away with it, I highly advise you bring the B side team of stuffed animals. If you bring the favorites and they get left behind it will ruin your trip. Think about all the places between home and your destination that that one tiny stuffed animal can end up lost forever. So either bring a doppleganger, or bring the B side of creatures that will not send your child into a fit of dispair if one of them disappears.
Electronics on A Plane
God bless electronics. DS and other handheld games, Ipad, mini DVD players, laptops. Remember to charge everything up ahead of time and download the movies you want to see. You might be able to get wifi on the plane but it usually doesn’t allow movie streaming. Invest in a juicebox type charger that will allow you to add additional charges to your gear. If the upgrade to first class is doable, consider it on long flights as many of the seats now come with charging stations. Check first.
Don’t make the rookie mistake of forgetting the headphones and bring a spare.
In case you don’t have time to read, check out my video on traveling on planes with kids
Bring the Car Seat on The Plane
If your child is very small, you’ll need to bring a car seat on the plane if you don’t want them sitting in your lap. Many car seats convert to airplane travel friendly. It’s not counted as luggage. Strollers can be checked at the gate and that’s handy as it will be waiting for you on the other side.
Safety Harnesses, Don’t Judge
I had one on my daughter at customs coming back from Turks and Caicos to JFK and it was a God-send. Long lines and little kids don’t mix. I could let her wander around and she couldn’t go very far, but I had the comfort of knowing she could move around a little without disappearing in a crowd–where I’d have to lose my place in line to go get her. And they come in cute designs like teddy bear backpacks, etc.
When we were in Turks and Caicos, my daughter was like a fish on a line, The minute I felt a tug I knew to check on what was going on a few feet away. Did I get the stink-eye from the Uber parents and the people who don’t have kids but think they know everything? Sure. But she’s alive and sitting on her bed, reading in her room today. God forbid, I’m not wondering where she is.
I say get over the leash thing if you can. People may frown upon it but who cares. It’s your child’s safety. No need to apologize. And if you don’t use it anywhere else, consider taking one if you have a potentially long customs line waiting for you. After awhile I found the only place I ever really used a leash/harness was on long lines. But it depends on how rambunctious your child is.
Temporary Tattoos and Skin Writable Markers
Safety temporary tattoos are awesome. Put them on, write your phone number on the tattoo with the special pen and you’ve got one less worry. You don’t really need the tattoos but they are cute and somehow make you look less neurotic. I had a handful sent to me back when I was an editor for Disney and they were fantastic. Little buttlerflies and stuff with a space for “If Found, call XXX.” I would not write your child’s name on them though in case someone uses it to their advantage. A phone number can be called, traced etc. A name can be used to subvert a kids’ normal sense of discomfort around a creepy stranger. I’ve also seen markers in toy stores for this purpose. Just make sure it’s not going to hurt your child and avoid the sharpies if you can. Otherwise, there is always the Sharpies.
A Family Travel Adventure to a Really Cool Place: Iceland
Where should we go this year? How about Iceland? Good food, lots of walking, lots of hiking. The kids will love it. They will be worn out every night. Here are some of our favorite moments from our adventures!
So this summer I used my Chase Sapphire card points and booked a trip to Italy for my daughter and me. She decided to go to an art high school in NYC and so I figured it was the perfect time to go.
Taking Your Teen to Florence, Italy
There is something amazing about taking your child to a city like Florence, Italy. It feels good to be able to be the first to show them this kind of place and you are doing your job as a parent by taking them on an educational adventure like this. We hit all the usuals, the Ponte Vecchio Bridge, the Santa Maria Del la Fiori, the Baptistry doors, the Uffizi, the leather market, lots of great food and of course gelato. But I have to tell you the best part of the adventure was taking the cute, new tram straight into Florence from just outside the city. And I’ll tell you why.
Taking the Tram in Florence
So my daughter is going on fifteen and she’s starting to get more independent. When I booked the hotel in Florence I didn’t realize that I booked it about 20 minutes outside of Florence. We had landed in the train station when we came up from Rome and then hopped in a cab and it was a bit of a drive to the hotel. “Great,” I thought as we moved away from the tile roofs and domes of Florence. But it turned out to be the best thing.
So we got our tickets, the nice, clean, bright tram pulled up. We got in and my daughter was in love. What did she do, she went and sat on the other side of the tram car from me. At first I was insulted and then I realized what was happening. She was trying to pretend she was there on her own, like a student, just getting around. There she was, reading her phone with her headphones and her backpack, sitting on the tram seat, like this is what she did every day. She was feeling pretty proud of herself I think. She did this every time we got on the tram.
So I was watching my daughter grow up a little right before my eyes. When we got off she was a little braver than usual, found a place she wanted to get breakfast and we walked in. She went up to the counter and attempted her Italian and he answered her in English and gave her the pastry she pointed out. She was pretty darn proud of herself. The tram takes you straight into Florence so it was super easy to get to the middle of the city from there. She noticed a big posted for a graphic design school in Florence called the Sign. She was again in love. She wanted to know more about this school so on our last day in Florence we did go check out the school.
So excited to see this painting in the Uffizi. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing the back of my daughter’s head as she looks at this painting. This is the painting that Leonardo Da Vinci painted the angel Looking at the La Primavera by Botticeli at the UffiziGheberti’s Baptistry doors. The originals are now in the museum but still, a fantastic copy Amazing to see this painting and be so close to it. What it’s all about. Making memories in Florence ItalyHere we are about to board our high speed train to Florence. We took one to Venice as well. Walking the streets of Florence ItalyHere we are having lunch on the roof of a big store with the dome in the background, Florence Italy
The Statue of David In Florence, Italy
Morgan and I made our way through the city and saw all the usual sights. I have to tell you it was really hot in Florence this August but we made due. We headed over to the Academia to see the David. I don’t think the last time I was there I took the time to see the rest of the museum so we took the opportunity to really go through and see everything else. There’s quite a bit of sculpture and Renaissance art up close, so I strongly suggest you take the time to look around. Don’t just go in say Hi to David and leave.
Touring the Uffizi
After that we had lunch at one of the many cool al fresco restaurants in the area and found the price to a bit more reasonable than Rome. Afterward, I brought her to the Uffizi. I looked at Morgan pretty incredulously when she asked me why we needed to go into the Uffizi. I said “you can’t be an art student and not go to the Uffizi, we are going.” So the nice thing about August is that the lines are not insane. We got in after maybe a 10 minute wait and we headed up. The Uffizi as usual is amazing. I made a bee line to see my all time favorite painting. Botticelli’s birth of Venus. And of course across the room was La Primavera. I thought, “OK now I can die.” I’ve actually stood in its presence once before but I was probably 20 and I’m um, not 20 anymore. I’ve also found that since I survived a bout of septic shock last year, my memory of certain things is foggy. I knew I went to the Uffizi before but I couldn’t remember a thing from that trip, so it was nice to renew some of these memories.
So we saw work by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. So many famous names in one place it’s a little overwhelming. My daughter was of course, cooler about it than I was, but I let her wander on her own and we texted to find each other again.
After an amazing time in the Uffizi we went out and walked more around the city. We stopped at the leather market and the walked across the Ponte Vecchio. I thought about the last time I was here I was with my mother and she bought my a tri-colored gold necklace that I still have. Now I was making my new memories with my daughter. She found an old woman selling watercolors. We looked closely and could see they were real and not printed copies. She signed all her work and told us that her name goes way back in Florence as painters and there’s a painting in the Uffizi with her family name and says the artist is a relative. I thought, why doubt her? She’s here living in Florence all her life, why wouldn’t she be related to an artist. My daughter was absolutely fascinated with this woman and chatted with her about going to art school. She loved the watercolors this woman had done and they were indeed very different than the scam ones you can see on the street.
My daughter ended up buying two paintings and now they sit in her room waiting to be hung up. I thought it was a great memory from her trip to Florence. She’s now convinced by the way that she wants to go to college in Florence. So I said well, you better get rolling on the Italian lessons.
We hit a few more restaurants and walked a lot more then took the tram back to our hotel. In the morning we left our bags with the front desk and took the tram again back to the city and had breakfast al fresco. There are definitely worse places to have breakfast than to have the Brunelesci’s dome in the background. My daughter had not had a chance to go back to school shopping so we went to some of the shops we saw and bought some back to school clothes. How is that for first day of school clothes? We also bought some handbags for me and some nice lingerie. I got three really nice bras for only $90 so I think I’m just going to go back to Florence with some empty suitcases. I hope she goes to school there so I have an excuse to go shopping.
Checking Out Some Colleges in Florence, Italy
After that we went outa nearby design college. The outside wasn’t much but we got to check out the area where the school was. It was a little outside the old, touristy part of town. But the best part was this amazing school housing space right next store. It’s like a WeWork for students and it has a courtyard and pool, and cafeteria and a beautiful bike room. The kids all get bikes when they take up a room. The place was run by a company out of the Netherlands and they just expanded into Florence, so it was brand new. Morgan was intrigued. Of course she was embarrassed when I dragged her in but I said look, we’re not going to be back here anytime soon so we should check it out while we’re here. So we asked the lady some questions and she let us look around. We took a brochure and I’m definitely putting this on our list. I would very much like it if she went to Florence for college, but just not sure they have a lot of programs taught in English. At least definitely taking some classes in the summer would be a good thing.
While we think the college that we had gone to look at may have closed down after Covid, there are plenty of other design programs in the city.
We had lunch, went back and got our bags and then got a cab to the Florence train station. I was a little worried about how it would be at the train station since I read a bunch of reviews saying it was a bit intense and confusing. When I got there I thought it was cute. Then I reminded myself that I live ten minutes from grand central station and that not everyone who writes travel reviews on TripAdvisor comes from where I come from. So there’s nothing to worry about in the Florence train station. Or the one in Rome for that matter. We bought our tickets and on the high speed train to Venice.
Hi speed trains in Europe are just awesome I must say. We took a train that went over 200 miles an hour up to Venice and it was complete luxury. Great, big, wide seats, plenty of table top space, plugs to charge your stuff and they come around with food. Also plenty of places to put your bags. I wish we had trains like this all over the US. The Acela to Boston is as close as you get but it doesn’t go 200 miles an hour or make you think you are on a private plane. My daughter loved taking these trains and I know she’ll remember it. It’s really fun to turn on Google maps and the train wifi and watch how fast you are moving and passing towns.
So if you are thinking of visiting Italy, you really need to stop in Florence. It’s a slightly calmer, more manageable city than Rome but just as beautiful. I’d honestly feel better if my daughter was going to school in Florence rather than Rome. All the cities are great, but Florence is just clean and bright and easy-paced. Make sure you bring extra room in your suitcases because out of all the cities we went I found the best bargains there. And oh my God the leather handbags. So gorgeous. I could have brought the whole market home. I got a beautiful patent leather handbag that doubles as a backpack that I’ve gotten tons of compliments on already. For $40! I can’t even imagine what this would be in the states and it’s just as good as anything I’ve seen on 5th ave. So plan on shopping and eating. And bring good walking shoes. I think when I stay again I will do the same thing with the tram. The prices for the hotels were great and we didn’t have to be those people dragging rolling suitcases across the cobblestone in the city. Just make sure the hotel is close to the Tram. In addition, the tram will take you straight to the airport if that’s your next stop. It also brings you straight to the train station if you plan on going elsewhere in Italy. Have fun!
having breakfast in the plaza in Florence Italy right outside the tram station. Hanging out in the morning in Florence ItalyBreakfast Florentine styleThe school we’re going to check out for graphic design in florencethe lobby of the really great student dorm we found in Florence ItalyThe hallway of the really neat student dorm in Florence ItalyAn amazing Farm to Table Restaurant outside of the Ponte VecchioThe view of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence Italy
Being nice doesn’t always come naturally, especially to other kids that your kids run into. This can be on the playground, park or out on the hiking or ski trails.
However, just because others aren’t so nice, doesn’t mean your kids, or you for that matter, don’t need to invest in being nice. To help you out we’ve put together an algorithm for how to be nice. Follow this and your life will improve at work, out on the hiking trail, in line at the waterpark, and at the deli counter.
eing a nice person is not something that can be precisely quantified with a mathematical equation. However, we can metaphorically express the qualities and behaviors that contribute to being a nice person as follows:
Being a Nice Person = (Empathy + Kindness + Respect) ÷ (Judgment + Selfishness)
Here’s what each component of the metaphorical equation represents:
Empathy: Practice putting yourself in others’ shoes, understanding their feelings, and showing compassion and concern for their well-being.
Kindness: Be considerate and thoughtful in your interactions with others. Small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in people’s lives.
Respect: Treat others with respect and dignity, valuing their individuality and showing regard for their thoughts and feelings.
Judgment: Avoid being judgmental and critical of others. Instead, focus on understanding and supporting them.
Selfishness: Be willing to put others’ needs and interests before your own sometimes. Selflessness and generosity are key components of being a nice person.
Remember that being a nice person is a continuous process, and nobody is perfect. It’s about making a conscious effort to treat others well and contribute positively to the world around you. Embrace these qualities, and strive to cultivate empathy, kindness, and respect in your daily interactions with others. Over time, these behaviors will become part of your character, and you’ll contribute to creating a more positive and compassionate community.
If your family likes horse back riding or trail riding, consider taking them to South Carolina.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant natural beauty, South Carolina offers a plethora of horse riding trails for equestrian enthusiasts. From coastal plains to rolling mountains, this southeastern state is a paradise for riders seeking adventure and connection with nature. In this article, we will explore the twenty best horse riding trails in South Carolina, each offering unique experiences and picturesque views.
Hitchcock Woods, Aiken
Located in the heart of Aiken, Hitchcock Woods boasts over 2,000 acres of lush woodlands and winding trails. This urban oasis is perfect for riders of all skill levels, offering a peaceful retreat within the city limits.
Fants Grove, Clemson
Situated near Lake Hartwell, Fants Grove offers a network of trails that wind through dense forests, scenic meadows, and serene lakeshores. The diverse terrain provides riders with an unforgettable experience.
Francis Marion National Forest, Awendaw
Covering a staggering 259,000 acres, the Francis Marion National Forest features extensive trails for horseback riding. Riders can explore the forest’s abundant wildlife and discover hidden gems along the way.
Manchester State Forest, Wedgefield
With over 28 miles of well-maintained trails, Manchester State Forest offers a variety of routes for riders to explore. The forest’s beautiful landscapes, including longleaf pine forests and pristine ponds, make it a true equestrian paradise.
Harbison State Forest, Columbia
Conveniently located near the capital city, Harbison State Forest provides riders with a diverse range of trails, including wooded paths and open fields. The forest also features equestrian camping facilities for those looking for a multi-day adventure.
Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Paris Mountain State Park offers breathtaking views and miles of scenic trails. Riders can explore the park’s shimmering lakes, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests.
Croft State Park, Spartanburg
Encompassing over 7,000 acres, Croft State Park is a haven for horseback riders. The park boasts an extensive trail system, providing access to rolling hills, open meadows, and tranquil lakes.
Harriet’s Bluff Trail, Awendaw
Located in the heart of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, Harriet’s Bluff Trail offers riders the opportunity to explore the pristine coastal marshes and witness an array of bird species in their natural habitat.
Congaree National Park, Hopkins
For riders seeking a unique experience, Congaree National Park offers scenic trails that meander through old-growth bottomland hardwood forests. Riders can marvel at the park’s towering trees and abundant wildlife.
Lee State Park, Bishopville
With over 20 miles of equestrian trails, Lee State Park provides riders with a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of South Carolina. The park’s trails wind through pine forests, cypress swamps, and picturesque meadows.
Hitchcock Woods Nature Preserve, Aiken
Adjacent to Hitchcock Woods, the Hitchcock Woods Nature Preserve features additional trails for riders to explore. This tranquil preserve offers a peaceful escape and the opportunity to spot native wildlife.
Sand Hills State Forest, Patrick
Featuring over 28 miles of equestrian trails, Sand Hills State Forest is a hidden gem in South Carolina’s Pee Dee region. Riders can traverse through rolling sandhills, pine forests, and scenic overlooks.
Woods Ferry Recreation Area, Carlisle
Located near the Broad River, the Woods Ferry Recreation Area offers riders a chance to traverse diverse landscapes
When you were younger you had dreams of when you had kids of your own, you and your spouse would go camping, biking and hiking with your kids. You’d spend the day as a family exploring nature and tag teaming it together to share the burden of schlepping gear and prepping. But that’s not how it turned out. It’s all on you. And let’s be honest, prepping to take even a short hike with your child, can be a bit of work. And when it’s just you and your child out in the great outdoors, the decisions are all on you.
You might be finding excuses for not going, and telling yourself you’ll wait until your kids are older and can handle themselves better in the woods. Don’t wait. Life is short and don’t cheat yourself or your child out of the experience because things didn’t turn out as you planned. Here are some tips to get it done and enjoy yourself with your child
Go easy on yourself. Don’t try to do it all. And take the breaks when you can find them. For example, don’t beat yourself up that you’re not up to taking them deep woods camping and doing all the cooking yourself. Do the cushy camping thing, with a nice campsite with lots of activities for the kids, restaurants nearby and clean bathrooms. They may not be experiencing what it’s like to be in the middle of nowhere, but so what, you’re outside and you are having fun together.
Invest in good carrying gear. Pay a little more for the lighter gear, and a backpack that can help you carry more while not killing your back.
Rent when you can. Don’t schlepp beach chairs or a beach umbrella if you can rent it.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid. You can do this. You are capable of much more than you give yourself credit for. Single parents are a resourceful lot when it comes to raising kids, why should getting out in nature be any different.
Post it! It may be a little lonely having no one to turn to to point out the latest cool thing your child just did, but don’t deny yourself this joy. So post it to your friends and family on Instagram and FaceBook. Let your friends and relatives gush about how adorable your kid is sitting on that rock or splashing in a spring. We read enough about everyone else’s adorable kids, so why should yours be left out. It may seem a bit silly, but it really does help get over the lonelies to read that “OMG she’s so adorable,” and “Wow she looks like she’s having a great time,” from your friends who care about you but don’t have the chops to be there in person.
And remember, you are not half a family just because it’s you and your child. I’ll admit it’s times like these that I feel guilty for being the one to end my marriage and making it fairly impossible for my daughter to explore nature with both of her parents at the same time. But then I remember I did it for a good reason and my daughter has a much happier single parent than she ever had as a married one. Then I remind myself, we are a whole family, even if it’s just the two of us. You deserve the same fun and experiences as other families have and it’s your job to make sure your kids make great memories with you. It’s a little extra work, but you’ll be glad you made the effort and so will they.
While hiking with my daughter, we came across this pretty little deer.
It’s time to put the MindCraft down and get outside. But hiking with kids changes the game a bit. Here’s what you need to know in order to have a safe, fun, educational hike.
1) Dress appropriately. Use layers. If you are going to be high in the mountains the weather can change pretty quickly and can go from rainy to hot and sunny and back again on a dime. Remember cotton gets wet and stays wet, so to wick sweat away it’s best to use wool in cold weather or technical fiber year round. A light windbreaker can save a hike on a windy day and keep you from calling it early because of a chill.
2) Shoes. Good treads are a must. Trail runners or hiking boots are ideal. Something that will protect little toes from the rocks along the trails. Sneakers will do in a pinch for a light hike, but if you are going to get serious about spending time with the kids outdoors, invest in a decent pair of shoes for hiking. Waterproof is preferable
3) Be realistic. You may be an avid hiker and five to ten miles is no big deal to you, but remember, kids are little. They get tired, they get whiny, they get hot. Don’t push them to do more than they can really handle. Start out slow and keep an eye on your pace. If it’s taking them longer than you expected, don’t try to push to get to that waterfall and back before dark. Pick trails that are easy to return to the car from, should your little one have enough sooner than planned.
4) Remember, this is about them. Yes you want to get out, and bond with your kids and get in touch with nature. But you are the parent. You are teaching your kids right now. Your number one goal is to impart your love of nature to your child. You want them to go home excited and wanting to do it again. If you push them and they hate it, you could turn them off to hiking for a long time.
5) Munchies. You gotta have munchies. Gorp, goldfish, apples, carrot sticks, crackers, plenty of water, plus throw in a few juice boxes. Bring things that you know they’ll eat. Now is not the time to focus on their eating habits. You want to avoid an out-in-the-wild, low blood sugar melt down at all costs.
What else to bring:
Cameras, notebooks, sunblock, bug spray, change of socks, GPS or a map app., a paper map, bathing suit, map, flashlight, tissues, diapers, wipes, sunglasses, plastic baggies (take whatever you bring in, out with you).
By the way, always bring a flashlight, even if you only expect to be out for a little while. You never know, and if you end up getting back later than planned, believe me you’ll thank me later.
Zion ha some of the most amazing hikes and views. It will remind you why you like being on this planet.
Are you an adventure family? Then you’ll loving going to Zion together. Before I had my daughter, I went with my then husband at the time, to hike Angel’s Landing. I’ve never forgotten it. I was amazed to see babies in backpacks along that trail but everyone came home in one piece that day. It’s a beautiful hike and highly recommend it. Just make sure everyone understands this is the real deal and they have to stay focused on a hike like that.
So here’s more about Zion. Zion National Park is a popular destination for families seeking adventure and outdoor recreation. Located in southern Utah, the park offers a variety of activities and sights for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best family adventures to experience in Zion National Park.
Hiking in Zion National Park
Zion National Park is known for its stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the park’s diverse landscapes. The park has a variety of hiking trails that are suitable for families, including the easy Riverside Walk, which follows the Virgin River and leads to the iconic Zion Narrows. The Emerald Pools Trail is another popular trail that features a series of pools and waterfalls.
For more adventurous families, the Angels Landing Trail is a must-do. The trail offers sweeping views of the park from the top of a 1,488-foot peak, but requires some steep and narrow sections that may not be suitable for younger children.
Scenic Drives At Zion National Park
Zion National Park is home to two scenic drives that offer stunning views of the park’s landscapes. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a 6-mile route that winds through the park’s main canyon and offers spectacular views of towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and cascading waterfalls.
The Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive is another popular drive that offers views of the park’s less-visited northwestern section. The drive features stunning vistas of towering peaks, deep canyons, and colorful rock formations.
Wildlife Viewing at Zion National Park
Zion National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions. Families can take a guided wildlife tour or explore the park on their own to spot some of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Camping in Zion National Park
Camping is a popular activity in Zion National Park, with several campgrounds located throughout the park. Families can choose from tent camping or RV camping, and enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery under the stars.
Zion National Park Rock Climbing
For adventurous families, rock climbing is a thrilling activity that offers a unique perspective of Zion National Park’s towering sandstone cliffs. There are several guided climbing tours available in the park, as well as designated climbing areas for experienced climbers.
Zion National Park is a wonderful destination for families seeking adventure and outdoor recreation. With a variety of activities to choose from, families can explore the park’s stunning landscapes, spot wildlife, and enjoy quality time together in one of America’s most beautiful national parks.
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