5 Fave Friday - Getting Home for the Holidays

It is that time again! Some of you will be or are already heading home for the Christmas-New Years holiday. This is the busiest time to travel no matter what your mode. If you are in the process of traveling maybe some of this will help, if you are getting ready to travel take this to heart. These are things to think about as you travel that will make your, and other peoples voyage smoother.

5. Be nice to the TSA people (they are just doing their job) - This time of year you hear a lot of bad things about the people who work security for airports, train stations, etc. I know well the effect that a bad security person can have on your trip (usually because it is the beginning or end of the trip). My advice to you is be as helpful as you can. Remove your shoes, any metal objects, let them know if you have medical prosthesis or other things that make you not the average Joe/Jane passenger. Give them a little slack, they deal with hundreds or thousands of people who are stressed just because they are traveling, and some who procrastinated because they thought they could cruise through the security line. I am not saying that you should do something unreasonable, but if it is just removing your jacket or being wanded, don't hassle them. If it is an unreasonable request politely ask for their supervisor, as is your right anywhere.

4. Have what you will need at the ready- Basic common sense tells me that if I am flying that I should have a picture ID ready to show the ticketing agent, security, and the lady that boards us on the plane. You will also want to have your ticket, boarding pass, or proof that you belong on the bus/train/plane/parking garage/etc. But I can tell you that I have had to wait for people who were shocked that the complete stranger behind the counter had no idea who they were. Grocery store (if you use a check to pay fill it out in line before you get to the register) rules apply in these travel situations. If you know you need to take off your jacket, keys, and shoes perhaps waiting until the last minute isn't the best plan for everyone.

3. Other people, be courteous- It seems like courtesy gets tossed out of the window when traveling in general, and during the holidays particularly. Remember the reason that you are traveling is that your holiday of choice has a message (treat everyone like you want to be treated) so how about walking the talk. Here is an idea, if you see an elderly person waiting in the taxi line having trouble ask if they need assistance ( and if you are not in a huge hurry let them get the cab before you), driving on a family car trip can be stressful try to be courteous and not drive aggressively or be a Griswold (see National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation), see a struggling mom with a few kids, offer to take something off her hands,  or let her in front of you in line so that she can get the kids out of everyone's way. It is just a human thing to do.

2. Fill your tank before you go (check your fluids, fill your tires, get an oil change, make sure you have an emergency kit for the car and wheelchair). Just think ahead about what might go wrong on your trip, and have a plan. Don't freak out about it, or let it ruin your vacation. If you use a walker or wheelchair research the repair places where you are going. Do you have a baby or toddler look up the places that may have stuff the kids may need. Print it out and put it with your travel documents. Be proactive not reactive, if you don't use it there was no problem, it didn't hurt having it.

1. Relax - if you have followed this blog you know that our motto is plan it to death, then enjoy yourself. Bring a book, e-reader, or portable video game. This is suppose to be fun, AND you paid for this experience.

Happy Holidays from me to you! Safe Journeys wherever your trip is taking you.

5 Fav Friday - Carry on items

In the last 5-10 years carry on items have really taken a beating. You cannot have liquids that are over a certain amount, no bottles water, my wife even had a screw driver taken out of her eyeglass repair kit. It is enough to make you want to check everything (resist that urge). Here is my list of 5 that you should carry on with you.

5. Electronics- camera, ipod, e-reader, tablet computer, it doesn't really matter. They will all be banged around  if you check them. They may even disappear from your baggage all together. Just keep them with you in your carry on, or don't take them.

4. Toiletries- Grandma was right. Keep a spare pair of undies, tooth brush, travel toothpaste, and face wash with you in the off chance that your checked bags get lost. Sure you can always buy what you need in most places but that can be a hassle. Plus do you really want to be breaking a new pair of undies in on your trip?

3. Spare clothing- if you have room to toss in an extra set of clothing I recommend it. You will want something to put on when you arrive and if your stuff is lost this will give you a buffer before you have to go to the store. It seems like a rehash of #4 but it is a good thing to be prepared for.

2. Medications- ALWAYS take any prescription drugs with you on the plane in their original pharmacy issued bottles. Otherwise you will be held up and possibly miss your plane, or potentially make everyone in the security line behind you really angry.

1. Identification/placards- You would be surprised how many people pack their cute little purses with their ID or passport in them and don't realize it until they are at the ticketing desk. Hell even my wife and I forgot the disabled parking pass when we went to Hawaii this year. I am not saying it won't happen, just that this list will help you remember.

Runner up:

A spare inner tube and tire change kit. This happens when you are in a hurry, have plans or just when it isn't convenient. Be prepared.

5 Fave Friday- Shopping (for the holidays or just because)

A ton of people will have already been out and completed their Christmas shopping  by the time this post hits. Today is known as Black Friday (A nickname store employees gave the busiest shopping day of the year because of the insanity of customers). I thought I would run down cities that I think would be fun shopping excursions for those who live to shop.

5. Hong Kong, China- One word "electronics". Gadgets, gizmo's, and do-dads all seen to come from this city. Most of the world can't seem to get enough of them. Plus they have a fairly respectable fashion and jewelry district for those not interested in bootleg Blu Rays, and the IPhone 4S (cheap) that isn't officially out anywhere (not that I condone any of those things)

4. Paris, France- I know that there are those out there that think New York is the fashion capital of the world, and to a point I would agree with you. However this is one of those cities that has been doing fashion for a very long time (they even had a war in part due to the fashion of the haves vs. have nots). I personally do not understand "contour" but if I were to go shopping for it, it would be there. Here is a run down on accessibility, which is pretty bleak right now but is improving.

3. Milan, Italy- For pretty much the same reasons listed about Paris. Only with pasta!! Here are some tips to keep in mind that I though were useful.

2. Chicago, Illinois/ New York City - These two cities tie for me because in a lot of ways there very alike. They have world class museums, hotels, restaurants, and shopping. I really couldn't choose one over another. Both have been working on making their cities accessible for people with disabilities, and are welcoming to families.

1. London, England- It is getting ready to host the Olympics and Para Olympics which is always a good sign for accessibility. It is also an amazing place to find fashion, furniture, and the latest trends that may not have made it across the pond. There is stuff that the non shopper can do while you are doing your thing.

More Travel Bug Bites.



Emerald Spring



My wife and I never really got to travel much as kids so when it comes to our son we want to make sure that he is a well-rounded traveler. We want to show him the entire world, and also some beautiful parts of this country (the United States for my readers abroad). This will be difficult for me because I just don’t see myself packing down the Grand Canyon on the back of a burro, or ice climbing in Alaska. There are still plenty of things to do when it comes to taking my son out to show him nature. A future trip that my wife and I will be taking him on will be a visit to Yellowstone National Park. This is an absolutely enormous parcel of land that was designated a wildlife sanctuary by President Theodore Roosevelt back in the day. It was his idea that we should all have a stake in America and that it be something we could visit (if we so chose).

I have always been fascinated by Yellowstone. Yes there is the tourist areas like Old Faithful geyser, the lodges and the thousands of unspoiled acres of trees, grasslands, and animals roaming free. Surprisingly, a lot of the park is wheelchair accessible. There are boardwalks, and hard packed level trails, campsites roads perfect for taking a handcycle out for a spin on. The accommodations in and around the area are like anywhere else (there are accessible rooms but they are limited so book early), and there are campsites (which is cool for those who like to sleep close to nature). The park offers Ranger guided events during different parts of the year and Park Service website is extremely helpful when it comes to finding out the accessible spots in various parts of the park. This kind of trip is what childhood memories are made of, roasting marshmallows over the fire, ghost stories and getting to see a bear or Bison in the wild (and take a picture of it). It is also a MUCH more basic type of vacation than those I have talked about before, which we all need from time to time, 

 Don’t you think?   

Happy Thanksgiving Wherever Your Travels Take You

I am very thankful that I live in a world that I can afford to save for vacations. I am thankful that I have a job that allows me time off to recharge my batteries and see sights while I travel. I am thankful that I have a spouse and child that love to travel as much as I do. I am thankful that I have a dog that enjoys her time at the thoroughly researched kennel (where she frequently doesn’t want to come home). I am thankful that I live in a world that is trying to make things more accessible to a person in a wheelchair that also happens to have a toddler that doesn’t always see the need to hurry. I am thankful that I can help those who need help either monetarily, emotionally, or physically. I am thankful for those out there that help those that I do not have the means to help. I hope that all of your travels take you where you want to go. I hope that all your travels take you to where you need to be. I hope you get to spend as much time with those that you love as possible. I hope that you can be thankful for your life, as it is short and delicate. To borrow a quote “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” (Ferris Buehler's Day Off).  Happy Thanksgiving!!       

                                                                                                                           

5 Fave Friday - The Thanksgiving Edition

I took last week off in observance of Veteran's Day. Now I am back in with a list I kind of dread. In the United States and Canada people make a trek back home to gather with friends and family for Thanksgiving and (Christmas Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Ramadan...I think I have gotten them all). This is a joyous time for many, as families who do not see each other often. This also leads to a massive crowding on highways, airports, and other forms of traveling. It got me thinking about various ways that I, and people I know have made the trip home. I have done some of these myself (and not necessarily liked them) or I know people who have done them (and really liked it, consider it a personal preference).

5. The Bus - I work at a university so there is no shortage of people who have to get home and are low on funds. I, personally, have not been on an interstate bus since I was 8 years old, but I have the strong memory that it was not pleasant. I have been told that it has improved in the almost thirty years since I "left the driving to" a certain bus company I won't mention for fear of legal reprisals.If you are low on cash this is a good way to get where you need to go. Pluses you don't have to pay attention to driving, and can nap, read, or watch a movie on your computer (some buses have Wifi), and you get to use the carpool lane. Drawbacks, you might get sat next to the bathroom, slow method of getting anywhere.

4. Rental Car-If you have a large group that is traveling but a small car you can rent a larger vehicle. This gives you an option of bringing those necessities in life that you and your group can't live without (snow boards, ski equipment, video game consoles, fruit cake). Pluses, You can take the family pet with you, swap drivers when one gets tired, test drive a vehicle that you may be interested in purchasing without the annoying car salesman sitting three feet away, and most rental companies have unlimited miles. Drawbacks, You have to pay for the rental (and insurance), the gas, and the stain little Jimmy leaves when he drops his grape juice in the back seat, and the potential speeding ticket because you get a late start to your trip.

3. Regional Air Carriers- Most mid size cities have a regional airport and smaller airlines that may be less hectic than the larger airports and carriers (travel out of Orange County on Alaska Air or Jet Blue instead of LAX on Delta or United Airlines). Flying is still the busier way to go and you have to deal with a TSA agent who may not be having a "Merry Little Christmas" and inadvertently takes it out on you or someone in your line. Pluses, quickest way to get from point A to point B. Drawbacks, security, no meals served, plane filled to capacity, lost luggage.

2. The Train- Because of the perceived intrusiveness of of security at airports people are going back to taking the train to places again. This has always been popular on the east coast where rail transportation is cost efficient, and quick, but is now picking up with other parts of the country as well. Pluses, you get to see the country, you do not get frisked by a government employee (unless you misbehave), sleeper cars offer you a chance to sleep relative comfort. Drawbacks, this is a slower method of travel (having to stop at each station), ticket prices can be pretty high (I believe that once trains are used more the ticket prices will lower).

1. Skype- This is a total cheat but with all the people going places at the same time using different methods of transportation to get there holiday travel is really stressful. I say use the technology to video chat with loved ones (send gifts via FedEx, UPS, or USPS) and keep the blood pressure low. Then during another time of the year make the physical trek to visit them when there are less people traveling. It is cheaper, you are less likely to get bumped from your flight, and you can go someplace warm (If you really want to you could probably get a tree for a great price if you don't mind the Christmas tree farmer staring at you funny for wanting one in May).

I have shared my methods of travel. Share yours with me by leaving a comment.

Travel Bug Bites (future destinations for family (or not) vacations)

Everybody does a bit better when they have a trip in their future. I know I always deal with a grumpy person just a bit better when I am going somewhere warm. Since discovering Vacation Rentals By Owner (or VBRO as it is known) trip taking has opened up a bit more for me and my family. We have literally rented a 3 bedroom wheelchair accessible home for less (per night) than we would have paid for a single hotel room or suite. With this in mind my wife loves to scour the internet for cool places and see if they might have an accessible rental (or enough for our needs). She has come across some real cool places that we add to our list of spots to visit in the future.

One such find was Sanibel Island, Florida. Located off the west coast of Florida in the Gulf of Mexico this area is rated high on our want to visit meter. There are plenty of wheelchair accessible houses and condos that can be rented for a reasonable rate. There are plenty of beaches perfect for frolicking, snoozing, swimming, or what they are known for sea shell hunting, and other activities. From what information we have gathered it is a very family friendly island that according to several sites "you won't need your car" on. Along with the beaches the island offers miles of bike paths perfect for a certain hand-cycler and his family. There are shops, and restaurants, and plenty for you to go tourist on. From what we have been able to see this is not Daytona Beach or Panama City. Not much of a Jell-O shot kind of a place. But that kind of speaks to me and I cannot wait to go.

5 Fave Friday - The Roadtrip Song Edition

It is time once again for everybody to be subjected to my thoughts. This week is my 5 favorite road trip songs. These are songs that keep you going even though you may be on a 15 hour interstate trip with family through desolate countryside.

5. Come Dancin by the Kinks. This is an upbeat song about a town dance hall that was the Saturday night hang out being torn down ( a metaphor how everything changes as you get older). It has a great beat and is something that everyone in the car can sing at the top of their lungs. Best of all no bad language or things you have to explain to your children (for us parental units).

4. Fulsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash. Some who know me might say this is a weird choice but Johnny Cash was hard core. While surrounded by huge semi trucks it makes you feel part of their convoy (also an acceptable song)

3. Going Back to Cali by LL Cool J.  It has a killer beat, easy lyrics and it is LL singing about going to California. What else do you need!?

2. Panama by Van Halen (the real Van Halen). I am a fan of 80s rock and this was one of those songs that was great on field trips, or family drives (where is my Casio portable tape player).

1. Life is a Highway by Tom Cochran. Yes it was redone by Rascal Flatts (redone well too) but I like the original song. It just feels like a childhood trip to the Grand Canyon.

Honorable mention for those who have kids but are opposed to Kids Bop Cd's

Recess Monkey is a kids band who do original songs for kids that are not lame. If you like 80s music you will like them.

Happy Halloween!!

Just thought I would send out a quick greetings for my North American readers. 10/31 is Halloween a time when people dress in costumes and act kind of crazy, and send our kids out to beg candy from strangers. come to think of it, it is kind of crazy.

If you like to travel for this holiday there are two destinations that I can recommend. One family friendly, one decidedly not.

The family friendly spots that I recommend are easy. If you are on the east coast Orlando (Disney, Universal, Seaworld, or the other travel destinations) if you are on the west coast SoCal (Disney, Universal, Knott's Berry Farm, Six Flags). Each has various things that you can do to ring in All Hallows Eve in style and it will give your little ones a chance to say I went and it was scary fun.

Now for those of you getting away from kids I recommend New Orleans. A city so steeped in history that its founding predates the United States (NOLA was founded officially in 1718 but the native inhabitants around 100BCE, yeah I researched it) this place has it all. This city has clubs and bars, is within driving distance to casinos, and everywhere you look are graveyards, battle grounds, sacred sites (both secular and  religious), music, food, and French and Gothic architecture. Get a Hurricane and let loose.

Be safe.

5 Fave Friday - 5 Things I Don't Travel Without.

Some on my list are necessities, some are superstitions but all will be on a trip with me.

5. Something to read. Yes I do not travel without a book, magazine, or something for me to keep myself from going totally starkers. I have no ability to walk around an airplane, and if we are driving through an area that all pretty much looks the same, my nose is in a book.

4. My camera. I also am a huge proponent of vacation pictures. I love the fact that at one point in my life I took a road trip with my aunt and we stopped at every "Welcome to" sign we came across. Creating memories is what traveling is all about. They might not all be good ones (i.e. like when I was below deck on rough seas and was hit by a huge feeling of sea sickness) but afterwards you can all laugh at it (like when you went to a luau and your dress strap broke while unloading a wheelchair and your husband begged a sewing kit from house keeping)

3. Medications. It is always something to be aware of. You can buy clothes and toiletries, but pills, creams, and the other things doctors write you a prescription for are priceless on a trip

2. Grandma was right. Bring along a clean pair of undies. Yes you can wash them out in the sink overnight but what are you going to wear while waiting for them to dry. Nana's every can't be wrong.

1 A two dollar bill (US currency). This was started by my Nana who always sent me on trips with on "just in case". There may be a time when you need just a little cash and if everyone in your party has a two dollar bill it adds up. My reasoning behind it is different however. EVERY trip that I have not had one in my pocket has ended in something bad happening (a bus left us on the side of the road, a wheelchair tire goes flat, you get the picture). Maybe it is a self fulfilling prophecy but I don't chance it. And now you know....

5 Fave Friday Dream Vacations

  

Ok this week’s 5 fave Friday list is……favorite places that I dream about going. We all have those moments when we stare out the window and just want to transport to someplace else. Here is my list:

5.) Greece. I am a huge history buff and going somewhere that is steeped in history and the setting for such great mythological stories just gets my juices going. I also LOVE Greek food. Gyros, pasta, lamb, olives MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM. The only thing I don’t much care for is ouzo (I just don’t like l the black licorice taste). I feel kind of bad because I really kind of mash up the Mediterranean countries but if pressed to pick one to visit it would probably be that one. Sadly at the time of this blog post they are in the midst of a huge economic crisis. Then again so is the rest of the globe, pass the spanakopita.

Yep they land right over a beach

4.) Sint/Saint Maartin/Martin. This island in the eastern Caribbean has both Dutch and French influences because both countries have shared the island for a long time. It is pretty, white beaches look like someone sprinkled baby powder by the water and, again, it just feels like they have great history. Only one problem was I visited on a cruise ship so there was just a wave of tourists that flooded the town. Also check out the rum and guavaberry liquor distilleries. They give out fruity tasting samples.

3.) Vietnam. This place has always seemed so very exotic and a truly ancient place where it wouldn’t be out of the norm to see Indiana Jones step out of a Pho restaurant. A blend of Asian and French melted together to create a culture uniquely their own. A few years ago I had heard that there was a tour company that started up there for accessible travels through Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia (complete with modified scooters capable of taking on a wheelchair. Sounds amazingly cool.

2.) Australia. Who doesn’t dream about going there? It has what can be best described as an old wests feel when you venture out to the outback. Some great natural monuments (Uluru, and the Great Barrier Reef) that  lay inside or just off the coast. Very cool architecture in the city and a great vibe as most of their cities have modernized for past Olympic Games, and other international events. It seems like a different world from where I live.

1.) Hawaii. This is a jewel in the Pacific. The different islands offer just about everything you can think of in activities. There are literally miles and miles of sandy warm beaches. Hiking, star gazing, sailing, snorkeling and scuba diving, clubbing, shopping, farmers markets, and food. You can be a tourist and visit Pearl Harbor to pay your respects. You can go to Kauai and get away from the massive sprawl of Honolulu. You can even see an active volcano eject molten rock, or go experience a luau. In short this is the place I would like to be most of the time.

Honorable mention:

*Panama Canal. One of the biggest modern marvels of the world. How could you not want to see a river/lake complex that cuts across the land and goes from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean?

5 Fav Friday

I started trying to do this once before and it just made me sad for not traveling. I am going to buck up and try it again, because I can always come up with 5 favorites. This week 5 favorite places I have eaten (or dreamed of eating) on vacation right after I have gotten off the plane. This is not the best food, nor is it the fanciest. We have all gotten off the airplane ravenous and because airline food is just nasty we have grabbed a quick bite. Here are mine:

5. Ivar's Seafood - Seattle Tacoma International Airport. Simply put it has something other than Pizza, Burgers, or mall Mexican or Chinese. This place has been making food since 1938 and was on a Frommers best list. We usually fly in at night around dinner (or a bit later) so I go get a bowl of clam chowder, and my son will eat anything that he can dip (fish and chips with Tatar sauce applies).

4. Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill located in Disney's California Adventure was one of those places that we discovered after a long foodless flight. We were going to go to one of the nicer eateries but the lines were to long, and really the last thing my wife and I wanted to do was sit inside. (Forgot to mention that we came from rainy Seattle to mid 60's Anaheim and were treated to the first sun we had seen in a while). Not the best Mexican food (rates about on par with Qdoba Mexican Grill), but the first time we went there it just hit the spot. Plus the food is very kid friendly and it is outside so the birds can get a meal off of what your kiddo drops. If you are looking for another alternative Taste Pilots Grill in DCA is also worth a shot (burgers, ribs, fries...) or if you happen to be in Disneyland try Cafe Orleans where some of the Blue Bayou food can be found to go. Really I do not work for Disney, I just like going there and having fun.

3. Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, at the airport in Orlando (huh, imagine that). OK this could be the jet lag talking but my wife and I took the red eye and got to Orlando as a jump off for a cruise. I do not think either of us had been that tired and hungry in a long time. We had a very nice bellman take our bags and gently guide us to their restaurant where we were served a very delightful breakfast of fruit, waffles, and eggs (and coffee for me). Then the same bellman came back to get us as our room was done several hours early and he said we looked like we needed sleep. Fantastic service!!

2.) The Rio Buffet- Las Vegas, Nevada. This was the first meal we had right after my then fiance and I got settled in to our room. We were in Vegas to get married and or best person (who had to Vegas many times) treated us to the Rio. It was good and there was (as promised) tons of different things to gorge yourself on. We had far superior food at the Bellagio buffet but the Rio will always have a special place in my heart.


That leads to numero Uno!!

1.) Tropical Taco in beautiful Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii. I have sang this song on other posts but this is the best fish taco I have eaten. I am in an area that has really good Mexican food and this little taco stand just blows the doors off them all. It could be the fresh caught fish, or the hand made guacamole, or the fact that they make it to order. Maybe it is the simplicity of it all. This would be one of the things I would ask for in my last meal.

So now that I have told you my faves. Tell me some of yours bu leaving a comment.

Some questions to ask when booking a cruise.

Cruising is a great vacation if you do the homework, and ask the right questions of your travel agent. Big questions that you want to make sure and ask are as follows:

That they have a disabled accessible cabin available. These cabins are larger and have the grab bars, and shower bench. Plus it offers a clear path  for a wheelchair or walker.

Does the ship dock, or do you have to take a boat to get to the port? It is important because the cruise line will not assist you onto the tender. If you will be upset if you don't get to disembark at each port, then you will need to really get an answer to this.

Are there any accessible excursions? You must realize that most of the ports you will be visiting are in developing nations and are not bound by the ADA. If you are pretty active and can get into a full size van you should be OK, otherwise you might want to go with some people who can You HAVE to have a passport. They will not let you on board if you don't have one (you may be able to get a passport card but you need something to prove your citizenship). If you show up without one they will forfeit your payment and you will be out of luck.

lift you in and fold your walker/wheelchair/or other mobility vehicle.

Is this a REALLY a kid friendly ship? You don't want to take a trip if the kids in your group won't have any fun. Again do your research. 

Bring scope patches even if you don't think you will get sea sick. You just cannot tell how you will respond on a different cruise. It will save you in the end if you have it (better safe than sorry).

Cushion your trip with a day on both ends for jet lag. Several hours of time difference can really affect you and possibly wreck your trip.

If you can take short cruises, do so. It gives you a chance to relax without costing a fortune and you can book longer cruises on the ship and get a discount.

Be prepared to roll around like Jack Sparrow. I was in the eastern Caribbean and could not roll a straight line if I tried. You are on a ship and everything moves. Just get used to it.

There is something about taking a cruise that puts you back in touch with yourself. It is a primitive experience that has you out literally in the middle of nowhere. Today's cruises are luxurious by past standards but are part of a link from our past. Every civilization had at least one person that said "I am hopping in that boat and going to see what I can find". More later.

Cruisin on a sunny afternoon.

I have touched on taking cruises before, so I thought I would go back and revisit this subject in more detail. I love the whole idea of taking a cruise. You get on the ship, unpack once, same room the whole vacation. No worries about food,(most of it is included (except alcohol and possibly soda on some ships). You get taken to the destinations without having to put much effort into it. You can even leave the preparations up to the activities desk. Bad weather ahead they usually steer the ship around it. Brilliant! Plus with so many different cruise companies out there you are most certain to find one that fits your desires. Are you a college student looking for a good party? Carnival Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean are your ships. Are you a senior looking to get a quiet getaway with people your age? Try Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity, Cunard, Viking, or Holland America. Want some adventure, try a South American cruise that visits the Galapagos Islands with ports near the Amazon rain forest, the Andes, or the southernmost tip of the continent and see the penguins, or take a ship that relies on sails to get from place to place. Are you a family with kids? Try Disney, Royal Caribbean, Princess, or even Carnival Cruise Lines all of which have kids clubs of some sort.

Even better than that there are also theme cruises. If you are a foodie, sports fan, wine connoisseur, murder mystery fan, sci-fi or comic book fan, or single looking to meet other singles they probably have a cruise for you. You can gamble, see shows that compare to Broadway’s best, comics, and live music all without getting off the ship. There are great amenities such as movie theaters, pools, dance clubs, basketball court, rock walls, gyms casinos, bars and lounges, and my personal favorite: the spa.

Cruise lines offer a ton of excursions for just about everyone’s tastes. Want to scuba or snorkel, hike, picnic, explore historic towns, walk on glaciers, dog sled, gamble, or shop. They will be able to assist you in doing that. Don’t want to do any of that, stay on the ship and take advantage of the ship being empty and most likely on ship services will be discounted.

You can cruise the tropics (Hawaii or Caribbean), the north (Alaska, New England/Canada, or Norway), Asia (China, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore) even river cruises (Thames, Rhine, Danube, Ganges, Yangtze), transitional cruises (from Pacific to Atlantic Oceans through the Panama Canal, or across the Atlantic to the Mediterranean), or the great lakes and smaller seas. I know several people who try to take a cruise every 2-3 years just because it is so much fun and they get to see much more than if they were to just go to a destination and stay there (although used a cruise to scout out places they really liked and took a longer vacation there later).

In these economically difficult times if you are able to take a vacation you want to make it a great deal for your dollar. I totally recommend cruises because they are a great get away and you can just relax and enjoy the surroundings. See you at the midnight buffet!

Activities for everyone

I have talked before about the many great things that Kauai has to offer as activities. Hiking, Surfing, Shopping, Beachcombing, Snorkeling, fishing, the list goes on and on. If you have mobility issues they are striving to make things a little better. They are in process of creating a 10 mile long paved path along the eastern side of the island that is right along the coast for bikers, joggers, strollers, and us folks who spend our time on 4 wheels. In fact two miles are already up and running and I hope the next time I am there the rest will be too.

I also want to give props to this island state for creating a monster playground that has ramps, for kids or adults with mobility impairments to access multi levels of the structure. Built in the 90's Kamalani Playground is a giant wood play structure that has slides, caves, bridges, swings, and a place for mom and dad to sit and rest while the kids are playing. It is made of wood and has tons of things to look at and play with.

Now for the adventure lovers take one of the many downhill bike tours through Waimea Canyon. It starts at the top of the picturesque site and takes you all the way to the ocean. All down hill. Or you can take a charter to the Napali coast and walk on virgin sand beaches, on the way you will likely see turtles, dolphins, and maybe a whale or two. Sure you can hike to some of them but I prefer an ocean view on my way to secluded beaches.

All this just makes me want to go back. Maybe someday soon.

Travel distractions

I want to take a minute to talk about a very important subject. What do you do on your way to your vacation destination? I personally like to do a variety of things to keep myself from going crazy while being stuck in my airplane seat, let me share what I did on the way to Kauai.

I listened to an audio book by Tina Fey called Bossy Pants. This book is in a word, hilarious. Tina Fey can tell a story and infuse it with so much humor that it will leave you crying (in a good way).
Another book I had with me was Unfamiliar Fishes by Sarah Vowell which was about the history of Hawaii after European explorers reached the island. It was very interesting and also had plenty of current information to keep it from being a textbook. My final read was a guilty pleasure graphic novel called Fables about storybook characters in modern day New York (city and upstate). It is a very creative take on characters we thought we knew. Definitely not for kids as it has some language and adult situations.

We took the requisite amount of DVD's for the plane ride, and for our stay home nights. My son s going through a Pixar, and Thomas the Tank Engine phase. Needless to say I have seen Cars and A Bugs Life more than I wished, and I feel like a very useful engine for doing it (ask your kids they will know what that means).
For myself and my wife we took Salt (angelina action movie), The Kings Speech (just really good), and the Hangover (you have to stop thinking and laugh sometime on vacation).

Yes it does seem ridiculous to be on a island paradise and bring things to do indoors. But it is better to be prepared, than to be stuck with a bored toddler. More latter :)

Family Outing #1

There are very cool activities on Kauai that are family friendly, as well as accessible. My wife and I researched through websites and books for months before the trip. We wanted to do some things that my son would enjoy as much as we did. My 2 year old son is obsessed with trains and as luck has it, there is an old sugar plantation on Kauai that offers train rides around the property.

 The Kauai Plantaion Railway was just the afternoon activity that we could all have fun doing. The pristine park like setting of the Kauai Plantation is a great place to let your little one run around and burn off some energy. They have great accessible walking paths that go through gardens, the old plantation main house, and shops, and the Koloa Rum Company (stop off there for a tasting). The main attraction there though is the train, which I thought I wouldn't be able to do. I was wrong, they have this hand lift and a space in the first passenger car that let me sit right behind my son as he beamed his huge smile. It does cost $20.00 per person but it was totally worth it.

Amazing delights of Paradise

As you might have gathered from some of my past blogs, when I am on vacation I like to try the local restaurants. My trip to Kauai was no different. We went all over the island trying some old favorites, and some new places recommended by fellow travelers and locals. I find that if you want the really good places try what the locals like, and also look for the hole in the walls that have no parking spaces. This can mean that there are some good things to be found.....or that it has really bad service.

Bad food or mediocre service wasn't something that I had to worry about on this trip. Whether it was the delicious fish taco that I had at Tropical Taco in Hanalei, or the fancy meal I had at Keoki's Paradise. The food was always fresh and tasty, and the atmosphere was family friendly and ready to assist us in any way. We never got any trouble for being the couple with the wheelchair and the toddler. In fact we opted to get a sitter one night and go to Kieko's Paradise only to see that they welcomed guests with kids (although at the prices I am not sure I would ever take a toddler there).

Let me give a run down of my favorite places for dine in or take out from this and my last trip.

South Island:

Bubba's Burgers is a local institution that serves some very good burgers. The Kapaa one we ate at had a no frills seating area, and a counter that overlooked the street so we could watch the tourist and locals shop and go about the day. Lets just say a good burger and people watching made this a nice place to go, especially is you have a pick eater.

Poipu Tropical Burgers is a family style restaurant that serves breakfast lunch and dinner. This is the type of place that my wife, son, and I could find something we truly wanted to eat. We went there for brunch, and dinner. They have great pancakes, good eggs, and nice crispy bacon. I also had the fish and chips there and can say for a place that has a little of everything on their menu it they were pretty good. The service is what makes this place nice. They had a place ready for us by the window, and the crayons and graham crackers were at the ready for my hungry toddler. It can be difficult to find parking at the Poipu Shopping Center where it is located so make sure you add some extra time.

And since I am on the topic of the Poipu Shopping Center, we ate at two other places there (Pukadog, and Papalani Gelato)

Pukadog specializes in hot dogs with exotic toppings such as mango, pineapples, and other types of relish (traditional toppings are there as well). You basically get to customize your own Polish or Veggie dog. It wasn't my favorite place but my son liked the veggie dog with mango salsa (it is very sweet with just a hint of salty from the hot dog.

Panalini Gelato was a nice treat. If you have never had gelato Hawaii is a good place to try it. It is a creamy Italian ice cream with some unique flavors. They did a respectable job and the staff was very friendly. I guess I just preferred the shave ice at Pono Hale Family Restaurant.

Keoki's Paradise is a more upscale restaurant great for taking that special someone on a nice date. If you get there before 5 you can have an opportunity to take advantage of half portions and chef specials. I had a petite fillet Mignon and lobster with a nice salad and yummy ice cream pie to split with my wife. Cap that with a few good drinks and it made the splurge for the babysitter that much more worth it.

North Island:

Tropical Taco I will not lie to you. This is the reason we traveled to the north shore of Kauai. They have the best fish tacos I have ever had. Fresh caught, fresh cooked, simple ingredients make this something I crave even when I am off island. My son isn't a big fish eater so he had a fantastic bean burrito which was the size of his head and which he made short work of. It is also nice to walk around Hanalei afterwards because you just never know what you will find there. Cap off the experience with shave ice and you can hit the beach satisfied.

West side:

This is where we ate the most and is the mid point between Hanalei/Princeville in the north, and Poipu/Koloa/Port Allen in the south.

Brick Oven Pizza has two locations (Kapaa, and Kalehio). We ate at the one in Kapaa which was clean friendly, and didn't balk at the wheelchair and toddler as we came through the door. They greeted my son with a dough ball to play with and had no problems with our pizza choice (mushroom and Portuguese sausage). It was delicious, really some of the best I have had. If you are looking for a place were you can catch a game (several big screen TVs showing different sports), get a good drink, and be family friendly. You would be hard pressed to get a better place.

Mema Thai Chinese Cuisine, first I will say that this wasn't bad food. I think that they keep the spiciness down because this place does a ton of tourist business (take out mostly). I live in an area that has really great Asian food so when I say this is pretty good food it means something. Just make sure that you ask for a little extra spice, and try the pineapple fried rice YUM!!

Ono Family Restaurant. Big portions of good fresh food make this family style place a must if you are in the area. The topper is they have a shave ice booth just outside that has the BEST shave ice on the island (i mean it there was a vote).

Eggberts  This is a standard for us as a breakfast and lunch restaurant. It is located in the Coconut Market Place and is what I look for in a restaurant. Cheap and Cheerful. It is kid friendly has tons of choices on the menu and you do not have to be dress up. Just don't go in there and ask for a fruit plate. This is a classic breakfast joint and they want you to enjoy yourself with their excellent fair. Try the banana pancakes with coconut syrup. Makes me hungry just thinking about it.

I will add more places on to this post so if you are going to Kauai check in every now and again for my reviews.

Beaches

Kite Surfer at Anini Beach

I know that there are a lot of you who think a beach is a beach. I am here to tell you that isn't the case at all. I live in the Pacific Northwest of the United States and what passes for beaches here are rocky, brown, and slimy. Still very pretty but very unlike what you will find in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Hawaii.

Even in Hawaii you find subsets of beaches. There was Anini beach with a packet grass field leading to sand that was slightly rough and filled with remains of coral, Tunnels beach which had softer beige sand and good snorkeling, and Lydgate which, outside of its lava rock created pool, is to rough to swim, and finally Poipu Beach which has the reddish sand I think about when I dream of Kauai.

Poipu is a very popular beach becasue it is sunny almost all the time. It has a very mild current and surf because of the reef located just off shore. It also has, what made it my sons favorite beach, a playground. This is a family friendly beach, you are not going to see many beach bunnies wearing dental floss.That would be Waikiki. We traveled through the tree tunnel many times on our trip. Picked up a sandwich and made a picnic of it. My wife would play in the surf and when he wanted to slide I would be there with him.

Now I will tell you that Poipu beach was great but it wasn't my  favorite. I loved Anini beach. It was easy parking and getting all of our stuff to the sand was easy (see above mention of grass field), there was lots of shade for my very sensitive skinned wife, and lots of stuff for me to photograph ( I love to take pictures, and will post many here). It was also level which was nice for setting up a pop up tent for changing into the swim suits. It wasn't overcrowded, which is nice sometimes you want to be away from people
 Also even though I am not interested you can get a permit to camp right there (I saw many an REI tent in the field).

Poipu beach at sunset

The lesson you should take away from this is, travel a ton and see how many beach types you can find. Then let me know about them. By the way don't tell anyone about Anini beach (its our secret).

I LOVE Kauai!!!

Anini Beach on the North Shore

It has taken me a bit of time to gather my thoughts on what I want to say about such a great vacation. It started off a bit rocky (and rainy when we finally got there) but once we arrived at the house we rented it all just fell into place. This rental is very much the kind of house I wish I could own (the floor plan was great, and I would kill for the kitchen and porch), the floor plan was open and airy, the screen porch is where we spent most of the time while we were there, and my son loved running down the hallway as only a 2 year old can (feet slapping on the tile floors...GO!!). I will not lie, this place ruined me for hotels when I am in Hawaii. Yes it was not on the beach, but we were 10 minutes from a beach and we didn't have tourists puking by the front door. Kapaa is very central so we could explore both the north and southern part of the island (not the eastern though as my boy decided to have a tantrum). The amenities of being in a house far outweigh the small inconvenience of having to drive to the beach (which we would have had to do anyway as the western beaches are not very conducive to kids).

Now as I have stated in previous posts it wasn't totally perfect. The doors into the master bathroom were tight, and the guest bathroom my chair couldn't get through at all. Once in the bathroom I had to get creative with the transfers to get in the shower. All that being said if the owner of the house would let me stay there again I would do it in a minute.

Tree Tunnel headed to Poipu

Also something you do not get with a hotel, access to an owner. These folks were great hosts. They were there for the delivery of our crib/high chair, and when the TV didn't work they showed up with a new set so that my son didn't have to watch Thomas the Tank Engine on a portable dvd player. They were great! Highly recommend using the site VRBO also -- this is where we found this listing, and it was such a terrific experience that we will definitely do it again.