travel with kids Archives

What’s New at Disneyland Summer 2026

Published July 10, 2026

By Esther Carlstone

“Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” celebrates the heart and humor of the critically acclaimed animated series “Bluey” in the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland park. PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN THOMPSON/DISNEYLAND RESORT

July is here, and it’s time to entertain the troops. Summer at Disneyland is always a little bit magical, but this year, the resort is pulling out all the stops. After a recent media visit with my own three kids in tow, I can tell you the new additions are worth the trip.

The big theme this season: kids rule. Disneyland’s “Kids Rule Summer” runs through Sept. 7, and the new experiences lean into exactly what kids love most right now.

The Millennium Falcon got a whole new mission

If your household has any Mandalorian fans — and mine definitely does — Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run just became a must-do all over again. As of May 22, the ride debuted a brand-new mission timed to the release of “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu.” Now your crew chooses their own destination — Bespin, the wreckage of the second Death Star near Endor, or the city-planet Coruscant — and engineers get to call Grogu in real time during the mission. My kids, ranging from 7 to 14, all loved it so much that we went on it three times in a row.

While you’re in Galaxy’s Edge, keep an eye out for BDX droids roaming Black Spire Station and note that, for the first time, you can encounter characters from across the Star Wars timeline — Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Leia and Han Solo could all just be right around the corner.

Bluey, dance parties and more summer fun

More Bluey? Yes, please. “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” at the Fantasyland Theatre is the surprise hit of the summer for the little-little (or even not-so-little) crowd.

Bluey and Bingo appear live on stage, and the whole venue transforms into a fun fair with games, dance-alongs and themed food. It’s a great time to give your tired legs a break and sit in the shade to refuel while your kids dance along. Don’t miss the Magic Asparagus (actually a chocolate-covered pretzel), the loaded Troubadour Baked Potato or the Mud Cake Cold Brew for a sweet pick-me-up that may just be my new favorite coffee drink at Disneyland.

Over at Disney California Adventure, the new “Disney Friends Dance Party” in Hollywood Land is a great evening option when energy is somehow still high. Back in Disneyland, Stitch’s Intergalactic Beach Party Blast returns to Tomorrowland Terrace. And on July 2, Soarin’ Across America made its debut — a new version of the popular attraction taking guests over iconic American landscapes.

Plan ahead to save

If you’re going with kids ages 3 to 9, the kids’ summer ticket offer is a real steal: $50 per child for a one-day park hopper valid through Sept. 7. Hotel guests can also snag up to 15% off Sunday–Thursday stays through that same date. Reservations fill up, so book early — especially if you’re targeting peak summer weeks.

Why JW Marriott Desert Springs Is the Perfect Palm Desert Getaway

Published June 23, 2026

By Cassandra Lane

From spa treatments and blue zone-inspired wellness to pools, flamingos and family activities, here’s why this Palm Desert resort is worth the trip.

Aerial view of JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. PHOTO COURTESY JW MARRIOTT DESERT SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

Until recently, I never understood the appeal of escaping to the desert for a summer vacation. Why swap a mild L.A. summer for a dry and brown furnace intent on sucking every drop of moisture out of your hair, skin and throat?

In the middle of L.A.’s “June gloom,” I left behind our 70-degree weather for a scorching high of 109 in Palm Desert, which averages about 300 days of sunshine per year.

On the drive, I consoled myself with imaginings of sparkling lagoons and spa tubs, crystal bowls and chimes and the feel of cool hotel-room air on my skin. This was, after all, a solo retreat to one of Palm Desert’s oases: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa.

My evening view from 7th-floor balcony at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. PHOTO BY CASSANDRA LANE

I wanted to see how Spa Desert Springs incorporates treatments, wellness tech and practices inspired by those who live in the world’s blue zones — five regions across the globe where researchers have found people live exceptionally long, active lives.

Who doesn’t want to live to 100, especially if they can do so in reasonably good health? I hope to still be dancing, writing up a storm, making new friends of all ages and seeing new-to-me parts of the world well into my 10^th decade.

A girl can dream. Especially when she’s on a solo retreat.

Best Desert Advice: Hydrate, Eat Light, Embrace the Night

I didn’t need to run the A/C for the first part of my drive, but I switched it on as my car floated into an invisible cave of heat that had me reaching for my water bottle. It was already warm. Luckily, I had stopped in Rowland Heights for two throat soothers: a jelly-lychee drink and coconut-pineapple juice, so I sipped on those until I pulled into the resort’s self-parking garage.

Enjoy an evening boat ride on the lake. PHOTOS COURTESY JW MARRIOTT DESERT SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

I decided to leave my bags in the car and relax in my room with no agenda until the sun said its final goodbye. On the way to the checkout desk, I saw a table holding two large containers of ice water — one with orange slices and one with cucumbers. I drank a glass of each.

The lobby was buzzing with activity. Folks were seated around the bar at Aquifer65 (which serves California cuisine, bar bites and sushi), watching the FIFA World Cup. A few families with children were waiting in line to board boats for the sunset cruise around the resort’s lakes. The boat rides are $5-$10, depending on the day and time.

Set on 450 acres of desert gardens, lakes and mountain views, the hotel is Palm Desert’s largest resort, with 884 guest rooms.

From my 7^th-floor room balcony, the sun was casting a pink light across the jagged edges of the San Jacinto Mountains. I could see couples and families dining on Rockwood Grill’s patio to my left, lit-up boats sailing across the wide lake in front of me and people soaking in the cool waters of the three Oasis pools tucked in the center of the lake.

The sound of water runs throughout the resort, a soundtrack that seems to cool things off. A little.

Once the sun was nowhere to be found, I slipped out of my room and descended to the walking path surrounding the lake, familiarizing myself with the location of the restaurants and my main reason for being here: the spa. Before I left, I stashed my water bottle and the hotel’s courtesy waters in my room’s fridge — treats to look forward to after my daring venture into the hot, hot night.

I took at peek inside Mikado Japanese Steakhouse, which offers a classic teppanyaki experience where the entertainment is as much a part of the main course as the food. Guests sat around a sizzling grill while chefs put on a lively, family-friendly show. The menu features steak, chicken and seafood cooked right in front of you, along with sushi options if you want something lighter. I backed out, deciding to save this bit of theater for a return visit with family.

After locating the spa, I circled back to the hotel to check out a popular family venue: JW Entertainment Zone, a 12,000-square-foot space that just so happens to be California’s largest resort arcade. You’ll find Pac-Man, Skee-Ball, duckpin bowling, simulators, racing games and many more machines lighting up the space. There’s also a movie lounge with beanbags to stretch out on. The film of the night was “A Goofy Movie.” I smiled at a little girl tugging on her father’s hand. “Let’s watch the movie,” she said, and he followed her lead without protest.

Like most of us parents when we get to treat ourselves to some me-time, I thought of my own son. Even at 19, he’d love it here, heading straight for what he considered “vintage” games.

By the time I retrieved my bags and returned to my room, the temperature had tiptoed to 86 degrees. I ran my bubble bath in the deep oval tub flanked by shutters exposing it to the room. Under this additional sound of water, I sipped my refrigerated H20 and nibbled on a yellowtail roll I picked up from Aquifer65.

It was a perfect bath and dinner. In fact, Japanese cuisine, seafood and salad turned out to my only nutritional sources during my entire stay. Light, tasty, satisfying and, most importantly, cool.

It’s Spa Time

Like many people around the world, I was mesmerized by Netflix’s “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.” In the early 2000s, National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner set out to decode the secrets of longevity. His expeditions unveiled the world’s five “blue zones” — Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica and Loma Linda, Calif. — areas with the highest rates of living centenarians.

Buettner dubbed the habits and characteristics these regions share as the “Power 9” — from natural movement to having a strong purpose to being part of the “right tribe” for you.

After bingeing the docuseries, I was determined to increase my practice of these habits. First, I scoured grocery stores looking for the “magic” purple Japanese yam featured in the series. And while I’m a bonafide gym rat, I push myself to walk in nature, including a weekly walk with a big, all-ages neighborhood group. We stop to point at flowers, coo over a gaggle of front-yard roosters, eat mulberries from Dan’s wild “sidewalk farm” in our dense urban neighborhood.

Still, I’m always on the hunt to find additional ways to effectively reduce my stress levels, and lying face-down for a treatment at Spa Desert Springs is an activity I would gladly do daily. Each experience blends local tradition, natural elements and longevity-focused practices inspired by the blue zones, Spa Director Dawn Ferraro told me during our tour.

Palm Desert’s largest spa, it spans 38,000 square feet and includes a shop and Spa Bistro, which serves light and refreshing meals representing the culinary culture of each blue zone.

“Live to 100” highlighted how Okinawa has long been nicknamed “Land of the Immortals.” Feeling inspired, I signed up for the Okinawa treatment, a nourishing body wrap that blends hand-harvested rice, clay, seaweed and botanicals to hydrate, brighten and smooth skin while reducing dullness and signs of aging.

My appointment was set for late afternoon. Early that morning, I ate a salad for breakfast on Rockwood Grill’s patio, watching the black swans glide across the lake. My son FaceTimed me, and I was not annoyed in the least to share my time with him. I pointed the phone toward the lake. “That’s beautiful, Mom,” he said. “I’m so happy for you.”

At lunchtime, I sauntered over to Spa Bistro, choosing the Okinawa Bowl (sweet potato glass noodles, shaved carrots, cilantro, miso-honey vinaigrette and chili crunch topped with a hot-smoked salmon fillet) and a blackberry cocktail, remembering not to overeat. My taste buds were tingly and satiated, a foreshadowing of my treatment.

In the candlelit, calm music-filled Couple’s Spa Suite featuring two plush massage tables and a massive tub, Miranda worked miracles on my sore body, gently wrapping it in the rice mixture that included uplifting scents of peppermint, lime and eucalyptus. “Any problem areas I should know about?” she asked, and I told her I’d recently been to the doctor for foot pain. My podiatrist, in fact, was suggesting the impossible: That I take at least a monthlong break from my beloved Zumba classes.

As Miranda massaged away the hurt, the prospect of cutting back my seven-day-a-week workout schedule seemed a little less anxiety producing. Why have I so doggedly worked out past these chronic pains? I thought. And why don’t I reward my muscles, joints and bones more with recovery?

The 90-minute treatment included a cooling rice bath and, to my delight, a rubber ducky! Who knew a childhood toy could be a meditative device? As I pushed the ducky towards my feet and watched it float back toward me, I was entranced. Deep in a zone that maybe, just maybe, was blue.

The spa also has gender-separate and co-ed relaxation lounges, a spa wardrobe, an aromatic hammam, Finnish sauna and a Turkish steam room. After my treatment, I had about an hour until closing time. I chose to spend it in the spa’s first interactive co-ed wellness lounge, which integrates wellness with technology and features 15 state-of-the-art lounge chairs designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.

While I’ll never submit to a robot giving me a body treatment, I sank happily into the MindSync Chair, reclined and donned headphones. Ferraro chose the “emotional reset” option on the screen. The music, designed to synchronize brainwaves, made me feel as though I was simultaneously flying and grounded. After the first session stopped, I hit “soul soak” and had no idea I’d fallen asleep until an employee woke me.

The spa was closing. It was time to go.

“Oh my goodness! So sorry,” I yelped.

“Don’t be embarrassed,” Ferraro said. “It just means you needed the rest, and Miranda did a great job.”

I asked her what I should check out in town, and she launched into how beautiful the Shops at El Paseo are at night. Mid-sentence, though, she changed her recommendation. “You know, the best thing might be for you to go to your room, order room service and rest for the rest of the night.”

She was right. I don’t even remember how I got into bed.

Rising with the Desert Sun

The flamingos are a beautiful draw for all guests.

I rose just before dawn the next day and went to sit out on the balcony. It was only 83 degrees, and the breeze did not yet feel like invisible fire. I sat down on the chair, then gasped when I looked across the table to discover that I was not alone.

A mourning dove was perched on the chair opposite me, her head bowed, her chest inflated like a balloon. She side-eyed me. I left her alone. We watched the sun begin to wake up the mountains.

As the light grew stronger, the dove began to move. Fluffing her feathers to wake them up, to get herself ready for the day. Your tai chi, I thought.

When she finally flew away, I stood and did a few stretches of my own, then went down to visit the Chilean flamingos, a delightful draw for early risers like me and the families with children who would make their way down later, perhaps after a breakfast of pancakes and sausage.

While my purpose in the desert was to find respite through the resort’s innovative wellness offerings, I appreciated that the property also creates meaningful ways for people of all ages to connect.

The promise of blue zones, Buettner says in “Live to 100,” is “to get every good year we can get out of this body of ours.” And that includes purposeful time alone and with our right tribes.

Family Fun on the Resort

Families can enjoy 5 pools at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa.
Play golf on 2 Ted Robinson-designed championship golf courses.
The Desert Springs Tennis Club has 8 pickleball courts.
Guests have complimentary access to the 18-hole mini championship putting course, with clubs available for all ages.
Take electric boat rides across the resort’s lakes and waterways. These set sail from the lobby. The resort’s lakes are home to swans, flamingos and other aquatic wildlife cared for by the on-site conservation team.
The 12,000-square-foot JW Entertainment Zone is California’s largest resort arcade, featuring Pac-Man, Skee-Ball, duckpin bowling, simulators, racing games and more.
The JW Family Passport program offers activities for all ages, including nature walks, family yoga, flamingo feedings, scavenger hunts, trivia nights and ice cream socials, with prizes for participation.
The resort’s Hot Shoppe serves nostalgic treats including root beer floats and ice cream.
The hotel’s “Paws & Pamper” program for VIPs (Very Important Pets) offers dog-friendly in-room amenities and pet spa items such as lavender blankets and CBD treats for four-legged guests.
Access to bike rentals, fish feeding and group fitness (18 and up).
To view and book resort activities, visit JW Marriott Desert Springs activities calendar.

Cassandra Lane is a mom, author and editor-in-chief of L.A. Parent.

Carlsbad Family Getaway: The Perfect 48-Hour Escape from Los Angeles

Published May 6, 2026

By Nina Harada

From resort pools and Legoland to Carlsbad Village and family-friendly dining, discover how to spend a memorable weekend in Carlsbad.

Take a break in Carlsbad. PHOTO COURTESY VISIT CARLSBAD

“No, we don’t have time!” is a refrain that echoes through my family’s days more than I’d like to admit — when the girls want one more outfit change before we’re out the door, when they beg for one more book at bedtime or when the idea for a vacation pops up.

What parent of young children enrolled in karate, piano lessons and theater — and a house overrun by dishes and laundry — has time to take off for 48 hours, no matter how badly their kids want to just jump into a pool and eat French fries? This would be, of course, a perfectly reasonable request from a child — or an adult, for that matter.

When my family of four got an opportunity to escape to the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa during a rare open weekend between my youngest daughter’s third birthday and my dad’s 80^th, I worked hard to quiet the refrain — “No, we don’t have time!” — and found a way to say, “Yes.”

My husband and daughters, however, required very little convincing. They were right, of course: We all needed the reset.

Settling in at the resort

“This place is amaaazing,” exclaimed Naomi, our 7-year-old, as ran excitedly from room to room within our suite, opening every closet and curtain. “I wish we lived here!”

This is the view that tortured my golfer husband. PHOTO COURTESY OMNI LA COSTA RESORT & SPA

The resort has 600 rooms and suites across its 400-acre property, plus two pools, seven onsite restaurants and cafes, a 24-hour fitness center, luxury spa and gift shops. Our bedroom balcony overlooked the resort’s new North Course, a links-style golf course that tempted my golf enthusiast husband. (“Just a reason to return,” he says).

Hungry and stir-crazy from the 95-mile drive south from L.A., everyone was ready for dinner. I was a little apprehensive walking through the grand lobby to Bar Traza, the hotel’s Spanish-inspired eatery. But when we were seated with kids’ menus and crayons (universal code for “Your kids are welcome here”), I knew I’d be relaxed enough to order from the Olympics-themed cocktail menu. Our server, Ramiro, took our order and picked up the dropped crayons without missing a beat.

Bellies full, we retreated to our room where, unsurprisingly, our girls passed out in record time. Unfortunately, my husband and I did, too, despite my ambitious plans for a round of cribbage and wine on the balcony.

Flexibility is your friend on vacay

A rare full night’s rest did mean plenty of energy to tackle the next day. After breakfast at Omni La Costa’s marketplace, my husband took Naomi to the pool and I took Juna, our 3-year-old, to The Lullabar, a nail salon with a café and onsite child care. How genius is that?

Ting, a newlywed from Oceanside, did my manicure while Jill, a recent empty nester, took care of my pedicure. All three of us are in various stages of life: Ting is contemplating starting a family but wisely wants to enjoy child-free time with her husband; Jill is adjusting to life without seeing her daughter daily and I am in the thick of it all with young children. Right on cue, one of the caregivers entered the salon, holding my little tear-stained, barefoot girl.

“I’m so sorry. We tried everything,” she began. I immediately felt embarrassed, like I had failed because my kid is too attached. Well, it was worth a shot, I thought. I guess my appointment is over.

“Is that OK if she joins you?” the caregiver asked.

Juna gets up close and personal with marine life at Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

I felt so relieved! “Of course!” I said as Juna ran over to snuggle next to me in the big salon chair. No one batted an eye. It was as if a child joining her mother during a pampering session was the most ordinary thing in the world.

I settled back into my chair and breathed a sigh of relief.

Exploring Carlsbad Village

For lunch, we headed to Carlsbad Village, the town’s walkable downtown area of shops, bars and restaurants so family-friendly it made my husband seriously consider moving here.

We sat down at Sushi Taisho, a husband-and-wife-owned Japanese fusion restaurant with vibrant green booths, a patio and neon sign above the sushi bar: “Seas the Day.” I seized my day and enjoyed fresh sushi and tempura while Juna napped on my lap. She woke up just in time for dessert from GelatoLove and gymnastics in the fountain courtyard at the Village Faire Shopping Center.

Although our girls could play forever, we adults needed a pick-me-up, so we headed to Kids & Coffee, a beautiful indoor playground and café with quality coffee and my husband’s favorite: matcha. Local husband-and-wife duo and parents Vivian and Ken first got the idea for their hybrid play space café during the pandemic. Like so many of us, they felt trapped in a small condo with young kids, desperate for a safe place to relax and roam free.

“This is my third baby,” Vivian said. From the extra toddler clothes and diapers in the bathrooms to the sensory-friendly “comfort room” to the Montessori-inspired classrooms, you can see how much love and care was put into creating a space that feels good for both parents and kids. As I sat there sipping my honey-lavender latte and chatting with Vivian while our girls played, I asked that question a lot of moms get: “How do you do it all?” But I really wanted to know!

“I think being optimistic is key to being a mom — and an entrepreneur,” she answered. “If you can’t change your reality, you can change your perspective.”

Final adventures

We started our final day in Carlsbad with our own mini reset: My husband and I got two glorious hours to ourselves while Naomi and Juna made butterfly crafts and plant seeds at Hazel’s Gardening Club, part of Omni La Costa’s onsite family activities.

A rare family photo. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

Once we reunited, we said farewell to the resort and headed to Legoland, about seven miles away.

Our girls haven’t discovered the joys of Lego builds yet, but they are ocean obsessed. We ran straight to Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium inside the park. The aquarium features more than 350 different species, interactive exhibits and knowledgeable aquarists ready to tell you about their favorite marine creatures. My girls were all about the jellyfish.

We had one final stop before making our way home: Carlsbad Strawberry Company. These delicious berries made for the perfect car snack. I knew we were driving back to the same dish-piled sink, laundry and overpacked schedules, but with a renewed perspective: Time together is always time well spent.

Nina Harada is an artist, writer, mom and Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

Mother Daughter Trip to Italy: Faith, Culture and Family Travel

Published May 6, 2026

By Melissa M. Monroe

A Los Angeles mom shares how a journey through Rome, Matera and Puglia deepened her daughter’s understanding of faith, history and cultural connection.

In third grade at my Protestant elementary school, my teacher said that unbaptized people would be damned to hell.

“Even babies?” a student asked.

“Yes,” the teacher answered.

But we had also been taught that God was a loving god, so this did not make sense to me. How could a loving god condemn innocent babies?

Madonna de Idris in Matera. PHOTOS BY MELISSA M. MONROE

“What about people in [other places] who have never heard about God?” another student asked.

“That’s why we have to support missionaries,” the teacher responded.

I raised my hand and said, “But we believe what we believe because this is what we are being taught, and they believe what they believe because that is what they’re taught. How do we know we are right?”

This did not go over well. She said something about God being omniscient and omnipotent, and if not for Satan, there would be no evil in the world, and everyone would know God.

“But if God made everything and knows everything in advance, didn’t he know Satan would be evil when he made him?” I blurted out.

However badly my first question bombed, this one landed far worse. I was sent to the Sardine Can, the inside of a refrigerator box covered in blue butcher paper. I trembled. I’d never been in trouble in school before; I had zero interest in being in trouble. I wondered if God was going to strike me dead or if my parents would do it for him.

After that day of punishment, I learned to keep my questions to myself. Instead, I spent many afternoons in the public library, secretly researching other religions, their beliefs and customs. Thus began a lifelong fascination with comparative religion.

And so, I did. And I have used everything at my disposal — including travel — to help make that journey rich, open and expansive.

At the tender age of 9, I vowed to raise my future children to feel free to ask questions about anything, answer them to the best of my ability, find others to answer the questions I could not, have respectful discussions about unanswerable questions and let them decide the path of their religious discovery.

Why cultural travel matters to kids

“Children often learn best when they can respond creatively,” says Robin L. Owens, Ph.D., professor of religious studies at Mount Saint Mary’s University in L.A. “Art, storytelling and age-appropriate technology can help them process what they are learning about different religions in a way that feels natural, engaging and accessible.

“When children are exposed early to different religions, they are more likely to see diversity as something to appreciate rather than simply tolerate,” he explains. “That can help shape them into more thoughtful, compassionate and culturally aware people.”

Rome as a living classroom

My teen daughter began displaying a deeper interest in Christianity around the same time my dear friends Paul and Dani retired to the lovely town of Giovinazzo on the Adriatic Sea in the Puglia region of Italy. In 2025, they invited us to spend a couple of days in Rome with them and then stay in their new home in Giovinazzo, a renovated monastery built in 1395 A.D.

My daughter’s spring break happened to coincide with Holy Week, and 2025 was a jubilee year in the Roman Catholic Church. Where better to experience Christianity than to immerse ourselves in the Eternal City, the home of the Catholic Church? I thought.

We jumped at our friends’ generous offer and booked our spring break adventure, eager to creatively respond to the stories of the people of Italy.

I’ve always felt that travel benefits kids and adults alike, but I figured I’d ask an expert for some deeper insights. Eric Tierk, a licensed marriage and family therapist, started travelling with his kids when they were infants, eventually visiting 71 countries with them. “Kids who travel — particularly to foreign countries — become more flexible and emotionally tough because you have to learn to go with the flow when plans eventually change in a culture that’s different than ours,” Tierk says.

“Travel helps kids see that one person’s idea of God may be different than theirs,” he says. “Learning, ‘Oh! My belief system is just one of many,’ challenges our belief systems in a healthy way. It’s difficult to harbor prejudice when you’ve interacted with people and truly experienced their culture.”

Experiencing Holy Week in Italy

Olive branches for Palm Sunday at Basilica Sant’Eustacio.

On Venerdi Santo (Good Friday) in Giovinazzo, we witnessed the procession of the statues of the Passion — crosses and sacred relics often draped in black — carried by friars, priests and nuns dressed in ancient robes. It seemed the entire town of 20,000 people gathered around the port to witness the many churches walk their statues and relics to the piazza before the procession.

Some people prayed on the sidewalks. Many sat inside gelaterias, bars and ristorantes, enjoying Aperol spritzes, panzerotti and other local treats. The procession lasted hours and culminated with the relics being returned to their respective churches, most of which were open to the public late into the evening.

We entered San Giovanni Battista close to midnight, paid our respects at the altar and lit a candle for my youngest daughter, who died in 2013. Our Italian friend Dani pointed out significant art and relics while discussing the fascinating history of the nearly 1,000-year-old church. Upon hearing Dani describe the history to us, one of the men working there invited us to climb down the ladder to see the nun’s crypt, a rare opportunity.

My daughter and I had never experienced anything like this in America. We’d read about these customs, but nothing could have prepared us for the real-life experience. “There’s no way to unknow things, and knowing things experientially is the best way to know things,” Tierk says. “Despite intense research before each trip, I’ve never once found a place to be as I expected.”

Discovering Matera’s ancient roots

During our time in Italy, we also learned to sail on the Adriatic Sea, attended Giovedì Santo (Holy Thursday) services at the Cathedral Basilica of Maria Santissima della Madia in Monopoli, took in the wonders of the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum and Forum and lit candles in countless Roman churches where workers were stacking olive branches in preparation for Palm Sunday.

We were awestruck by the Rupestrian churches of Matera — continuously inhabited since the Paleolithic period — and the 9^th to 12^th century frescos still visible on the walls of these churches built into the natural caves, clearly demonstrating the evolution of religion in that region over millennia.

We saw the story of Christian history unfolding before our eyes through the art and design of these churches, and how much Christianity itself changed in response to culture through the years, even within the same city. “Facts matter, but stories are often what stay with children,” Owens says. “Storytelling helps them see themselves in other people’s experiences, which can open the door to a deeper understanding of both other religions and their own beliefs.”

What travel teaches families

During our daily grind, parents and teens don’t always get the best of each other, so to witness the reverence my daughter displayed in these churches, temples and archeological sites was life-altering for me. Seeing my child’s eyes filled with true wonder, awe and respect is something I will never forget.

“Mom, I think my friends would love this architecture, these churches and pace of life,” she told me. “Can we bring them when we come back?”

You know it’s a good trip when you’re already planning a return with your girl gang even before you even leave.

As Tierk says: “The best way to avoid living in an echo chamber is to get out in the world and interact with people from other cultures. It also helps us appreciate home.”

Melissa M. Monroe, Ph.D., garnered honorable mention in Writer’s Digest 2023 Self-Published Book Awards for her book, “Mom’s Search for Meaning: Grief and Growth After Child Loss.” She is a mom, writer and licensed acupuncturist in L.A. Her recent work has appeared in L.A. Review of Books, New York Times, Slate, Well+Good, Backpacker and Insider.

Editor’s note: Looking for ways to help your kids explore culture right here in L.A.? Check out Mike Sonksen’s “How to Be a Tourist at Home” and Jalpa Vaidya Patel’s “Cultural Summer Camps.”

Central Oregon Family Road Trip Guide: Things to Do, Eat and Explore

Published May 5, 2026

By Esther Carlstone

From whitewater rafting and scenic drives to charming towns and family-friendly hotels, discover why Central Oregon is a perfect family road trip destination.

Because flying is beyond gnarly these days — long lines, delays, exorbitant costs — road trips have become the go-to for L.A. families. And for a getaway that delivers incredible nature, delicious food and endless kid-friendly outdoor adventures, Central Oregon is hard to beat, especially during the summer and fall months when the weather is idyllic, offering a welcome respite from L.A. heat waves.

My family of five made the 13-hour drive from L.A. to Central Oregon last summer, and we’re in the middle of planning our next trip. You can make the drive a straight shot or break it up with stops in Sacramento or Mount Shasta like we did — or go even slower and head up the Pacific Coast Highway. Either way, once you hit the high desert, Bend is the perfect base for exploring.

Outdoor adventures: From river rapids to lava tubes

Whitewater rafting down the Deschutes River. PHOTOS BY ESTHER CARLSTONE

Bend is often referred to as the outdoor recreation capital of Oregon for good reason. In warmer months, you’ll see locals and visitors tubing or kayaking down the Deschutes River. For those seeking bigger thrills, whitewater rafting is also huge here. We went with a local outfitter, Sun Country Tours, and everyone from our 6-year-old to 13-year-old had a blast.

We also explored the famous lava tubes with another local tour guide, Wanderlust Tours, which (fair warning ahead) isn’t for little ones who don’t like the dark or crawling around in small spaces. It’s a fascinating experience if everyone is on board.

Check out the Gorge White House for cider tasting, lunch and lavender ice cream.

Hiking trails abound. From the flat Canyon Trail at Smith Rock State Park to Pilot Butte, where the summit delivers amazing panoramic views, to the dozens of trails you can find in nearby Hood River, the possibilities are endless.

Another can’t-miss with kids: the High Desert Museum. Mostly set outdoors, there are animal presentations, interactive exhibits and the most adorable otters you’ll likely ever see.

Scenic drives

When in Central Oregon, driving the scenic Hood River Fruit Loop is a must. The 35-mile journey takes you through the heart of Hood River Valley and is filled with lavender farms, wine and cider-tasting rooms and farm markets along the way. It’s easy to make a whole day of this with the kids, stopping for snacks and meals.

Some of our favorite stops included Draper Farms for seasonal fruit, The Gorge White House for cider tasting, lunch and lavender ice cream and the Apple Valley Country Store for its famous huckleberry milkshakes.

For a longer driving option, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a 66-mile drive through the Cascade Mountains that takes you past Mount Bachelor, a dozen picturesque alpine lakes and endless spots to hike, fish or just soak in the views. It’s the kind of drive where you’ll want to build in extra time to stop and explore — three to five hours minimum if you’re actually getting out of the car.

Local food stops

Bend Brewing Company: Super kid-friendly with a wide grassy lawn to run around in while you eat at picnic tables overlooking the Deschutes. There is also indoor dining.

Pastini: At this Italian restaurant located in the Old Mill District in Bend, opt to eat outdoors on the patio for gorgeous river views (and wiggly toddlers). The menu features pizza, pastas and cocktails to delight all.

Food carts: Bend is known for its cluster of food carts found all around town, an especially convenient discovery for families so that everyone can get something they want and scarf it all down outdoors where no one cares if kids are loud and having fun. Large food cart “pods” include On Tap and Podski.

A walk through the lavender fields in the Hood River Fruit Loop is pure magic.

Mike’s Ice Cream: A local favorite in Hood River, this charming ice cream shop has been scooping happiness since the 1970s, and the long lines out the door back this up.

Charming towns

Beyond the outdoor adventures and scenic drives, Central Oregon’s small towns are worth exploring. Each one has its own vibe, and they’re perfect for breaking up the day, whether you need a lunch stop, some indoor time when the desert heat does get intense or just a chance to wander and browse.

Downtown Bend is where you’ll find the energy. Independent boutiques line the streets, and Roundabout Books is the kind of place where you can easily lose an hour. Grab lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the river or pick up snacks for a picnic by the river.

The Old Mill District in Bend offers a nice change of pace — a mix of history and modern shopping that keeps tweens and teens engaged between outdoor activities. We found ourselves popping in and out of shops, grabbing coffee and just enjoying the riverside setting.

Hood River has a distinctive charm. It boasts a small-town-meets-hipster feel with an outdoor adventure culture woven throughout. The compact downtown is easy to navigate with kids, and there’s no shortage of water sports to partake in on the Columbia River, even if it’s just splashing around.

Sisters, Ore., is a quick 30-minute drive and worth the detour. This 1880s-themed Western town is perfect for a low-key afternoon of window shopping and picking up handmade candy.

Where to stay

It’s often tricky to find places to stay as a family of five, but there was a wide range of options in Central Oregon.

Sunriver Resort (Bend) $$$: Designed for families, this sprawling resort is about a 20- to 30-minute drive from Downtown Bend, but many families find it hard to even want to leave. With cabin-type accommodations that easily fit larger families, an indoor and outdoor water slide, miles of biking trails, horseback riding, a golf course and more all set in the heart of nature, it’s hard to beat.

Campfire Hotel (Bend) $$: With a central location within walking distance of Downtown Bend and the Deschutes River, the rooms here are spacious, have bunk beds, a pool and fire pits.

Hood River Hotel (Hood River) $$$: This historic hotel has various room types, including a pretty epic bunkhouse if you’re traveling with more than one family. It features five bunkbeds and your own sauna. The brunch downstairs at Broder Øst is not to be missed (and worth coming for even if you’re not staying there).

Esther Carlstone is a parenting and travel writer/editor who’s always looking for the best places to see, eat and stay with kids.

Family Travel Tips: What to Pack for Kids and Stress-Free Trips

Published May 5, 2026

By Elena Epstein

A Los Angeles pediatrician shares family travel essentials, packing tips and health advice for road trips, flights and international vacations with kids.

Family travel goes a lot smoother when you plan with purpose. I spoke with a Los Angeles-based pediatrician about the essentials that can help parents stay prepared, whether they’re flying, driving or heading abroad with kids.

Pack like a pro

To increase your chances for a family trip filled with happy memories, Leian Chen, M.D., a pediatrician with UCLA Health in Marina del Rey and a mom of two (ages 12 and 9), urges us to plan well, yet always expect the unexpected.

“On my family’s trips, we’ve gotten stranded in sand dunes and snowstorms, used the first-aid kit more times than I can count and often relied on the kindness of friends and strangers,” says Chen. “While it would have been easy to let these things derail our vacations, we had to learn to be flexible and to make the best of the unexpected situations, which ultimately led to some great stories and memories.”\

During a family trip to Grand Turk, Leian Chen, M.D., and her family posed with a stingray. PHOTO COURTESY LEIAN CHEN

Road trips vs. flying

“Road trips are sometimes easier, as you’ll have access to all of your things, but you may need to include some medication like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) for carsickness along with some barf bags if your child is prone,” Chen says. “Of course, some kids experience motion sickness with air travel, too, so this may be an essential either way.

“For flights, some airlines will require proof of age (like a birth certificate or vaccine record) for lap infants or a notarized consent form if traveling with only one parent,” she says. “If your child will need a car seat or booster seat at your destination, that would also be important to gate-check or bring on board so that it doesn’t get lost in transit.”

International travel tips

“Keep passports on your person or locked somewhere safe once you arrive at your destination, with a copy readily available on you,” Chen says.

“Consider bringing some commonly used medications or baby formula with you in case access is difficult at your destination or there is a language barrier. Other items to consider:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and/or ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil, for infants/children 6 months and up) for fevers or pain
Cetirizine (commonly known as Zyrtec) for allergies
First-aid items
Contact your pediatrician well ahead of time for refills on prescription medications

Pack for your destination

“If you’ll be outside at all, I would have sunscreen and a hat in your bag,” Chen advises. “If you’re going to an area with mosquitoes, I would recommend carrying repellent spray or wipes and, perhaps, some hydrocortisone cream for itchy bites.

“For travel in cold weather, extra layers of clothing and hats/gloves would be helpful to have on hand. I’ve also thrown hand warmers (rechargeable or single use) in there on ski trips.”

Essentials for every trip

Mini first-aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Wipes and tissues
Snacks and drinks
Necessary medications

For babies and toddlers

Diapers (extra, in case of flight delays or getting stranded somewhere)
Diaper cream
Wipes
Changing pad
Bottles/formula (bring extra)
Burp cloths
Comfort items such as pacifiers and lovies
Blankets
Toys
Disposable bags for soiled diapers or clothing
A few extra outfits for you and your child (in case you get spit-up or other bodily fluids on you and you’d rather not sit for hours on a flight that way!)
Portable white noise machine for napping on the go

For school-age kids

Books
Games or a tablet with some pre-downloaded shows or games (in case you don’t have internet access)
Headphones.
Chargers

To keep the kids busy without relying on electronic devices during travel, check out our article on screen-free travel fun.

Elena Epstein is editorial director of L.A. Parent.

Returning to Vancouver Island Through Family and Memory

Published January 8, 2026

By Elisa Parhad

Elisa Parhad’s son Caveh gets into camouflage mode to spot birds at Sooke Harbour House. PHOTOS COURTESY ELISA PARHAD

From the oversized soaking tub that doubled as his makeshift lookout post inside our Sooke Harbour House, my 12-year-old son aimed his birding scope toward the large windows overlooking the Salish Sea. Wearing a camouflage hat lined with lichen he’d forged earlier, he settled into the Vancouver Island landscape — the land of my great-grandparents and the place I had returned to share with my own children.

Twenty years earlier, my husband and I had celebrated our honeymoon on this beloved island retreat perched on the British Columbia coast west of Victoria. It was the second night of our honeymoon and a splurge for us at the time. The experience was delightful — until we realized the booking to stay there for the night did not exist. While the reason for the mishap has been forgotten, we pledged we’d return to stay at the inn, hopefully with kids in tow.

Elisa Parhad’s son Marsais fishes outside Sooke Harbour House. (L) Oysters at Sooke Harbour House. (R)

Now, our 12-year-old explored and our 15-year-old son lounged while eating a Nanaimo Bar, tasting the same rich and creamy texture of my grandmother’s homemade bars. In 1944, my grandmother moved from California to marry my homesteading Canadian grandfather, Martin Straith, who helped run his family’s fine woolen goods shop, established in Victoria in 1917. As a child, I took many family trips to the island from my home in Seattle. This first visit with my husband and sons was a kind of homecoming, a nostalgic introduction to my family’s deep Vancouver Island connection.

Returning to Sooke Harbour House

While it would take a full week to thoroughly enjoy the locally foraged meals, chartered fishing trips and cozy interiors of the Sooke Harbour House, we were still grateful for a two-day stay. The verdant island paradise called us to explore farther afield.

We were first lured in with the sight of leafy branches dripping with moss and lichen at Goldstream Provincial Park, a beloved slice of southern island wilderness with waterfalls, hiking trails and trees aplenty, some of which are more than 500 years old.

A little farther down the Trans-Canada Highway is the Malahat SkyWalk, where we rose above the tree line to clearly view the glacier-carved fjords, bays, islands and inlets that make up this land of sea, forest and sky. The view from the spectacular spiral tower lookout spanned from the San Juan and Gulf islands to the Saanich Peninsula (where I spied my great-grandparents’ former farm in Sidney).

My childhood memories of the island did not include these stunning views (the structure was built in 2021), but I knew just where I wanted to stop once we hit Victoria: Murchie’s Fine Tea & Coffee, roughly an hour’s drive away.

The Parhad family enjoys breakfast on Vancouver Island.

Murchie’s has been an institution in the city since 1894, and it was always the first stop my mother would make after we disembarked from the FRS Clipper (Seattle to Victoria ferry), which still arrives daily from Seattle into Victoria’s vibrant Inner Harbour, a central, scenic waterfront area in British Columbia, known for historic architecture. While Seattle may be known for coffee, it’s got nothing on the grip that tea has on both the people of Victoria and my own family — handed down through generations from England, Ireland and Scotland. After a midday treat from the pastry counter, we all chose our own assortment of loose teas. Sadly, my own stash has not outlasted my craving for these exceptionally high-quality brews.

Of course, afternoon tea service is taken seriously in Victoria, namely at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. With a teen and preteen in tow, we opted for a more singular, less formal experience at the Tea House at Abkhazi Garden inside the once private home of Peggy Pemberton-Carter and her husband, Prince Nicolas Abkhazi, from an ancient line of kings of Abkhazia on the Black Sea. The couple’s story and spectacular garden setting is still on my mind long after we enjoyed Earl Grey tea, petit fours and smoked salmon blinis.

Exploring Victoria

Our stay was sweetened by a family-friendly Victoria hotel, The Parkside Hotel & Spa, complete with an indoor pool, luxurious amenities and free bikes to take through town.

Our spacious room looked out onto the edges of Beacon Hill Park, which offered a dazzling display of blooming daffodils, manicured gardens, roaming peacocks and a children’s farm. It’s also a hop, skip and jump from the Royal BC Museum, a must for anyone visiting Vancouver Island with kids. We spent a good part of a day exploring the life-like dioramas of wildlife, reconstructed Gold Rush-era Old Town, the HMS Discovery ship and an Indigenous longhouse and totem poles, all illustrating both the cultural and natural landscape. Highly recommended.

There was no agonizing about things to do in Victoria with kids. I had a long list of stops I couldn’t wait to return to. We rode bikes throughout the compact downtown area, stopping at old favorites, including Munro’s Books, Chinatown’s Fan Tan Alley, as well as my grandfather’s former storefront and other fun shops on Government Street. We searched for sea glass on the beaches along Dallas Roadand had unforgettable dockside meals at Red Fish Blue Fish(casual canteen-style dining), Flying Otter Grill(a sit-down waterfront restaurant) and Breakwater Bistro & Bar (with views of the Olympic Mountains).

Marsais explores Goldstream Provincial Park.

After meeting some members of my Straith family and taking a spontaneous tour of my great-grandparents’ farm — which happened to be up for sale when we found it — our trip both reignited long-lost connections and provided a wealth of new memories on an enchanted isle in the Salish Sea.

Elisa Parhad is a travel and lifestyle writer, author and photographer based in L.A.

The Traveling Newlyweds Are Now Traveling Parents

Published May 6, 2022

By Chelsee Lowe

Travel influencers Alli and Bobby Talley embraced traveling with their toddler Jude. PHOTOS COURTESY ALLI AND BOBBY TALLEY

Beloved travel influencers Alli and Bobby Talley caught the travel bug as young people. Alli traveled abroad often, thanks to her father’s career in international commercial real estate, and Bobby loved road tripping with his parents and brother — he visited all 50 U.S. states by the time he was 16.

The couple dubbed themselves the “traveling newlyweds” once they’d tied the knot, and they began sharing their adventures with friends and family via a blog and eponymous Instagram account: @Traveling_Newlyweds. They quit their jobs in 2018 in order to focus on travel full time, using their growing online audience to highlight destinations near and far from their home base in Costa Mesa. And now, they’re traveling parents, having welcomed son Jude in early 2020 and daughter Reese just four months ago.

I caught up with the new parents recently to talk about traveling with young kids.

Being an expert traveler doesn’t immediately make you an expert at traveling with kids. How did your first trip with Jude go?

Alli: We were so humbled by it. Jude was about four months old, and we were headed to Santa Barbara. We got as far as Calabasas and had to stop — he was losing it. A trip that should have been two and a half hours took us almost six hours. You are at the mercy of your child. If they’re hungry, you stop. If they need to run around, you stop. You learn to really throw any expectations out the window.

How does that sense of flexibility come into play once you arrive at your destination?

Bobby: We are — or we were — such goers. We like to do and see as much as we can when we get somewhere. Even with restaurants, we used to graze. We’d go to one place for drinks, another place for appetizers and so on.

Alli: But with Jude, we thought, “We’ll be lucky if we make it to one restaurant.” Now, we make a list, like, “Top Three Wineries To Visit,” and we just see what happens. Travel may look different now, but that’s okay.

Tell us about a successful weekend getaway you’d recommend to fellow SoCal families.

Bobby: Our favorite getaway with Jude has been to Los Alamos. We stayed at the Skyview Hotel, which has a very cool, laid-back vibe, and it’s so kid-friendly. He loved playing in the pool and we loved the poolside drinks. Many of the wineries nearby welcome kids — our favorite is Demetria — and we all loved the delicious food at Bob’s Well Bread. Highly suggest the eggs benedict; it’s the best!

What other planning strategies help make for a successful family trip?

Alli: We’ve learned to book a room with a patio or somewhere you can escape once the baby goes to sleep.

Bobby: A SlumberPod [privacy tent] is a must for us. We also look out for great playgrounds. We will take the longer route to a destination if it means more amenities like parks and places to eat.

Alli: Pack an iPad, too, and don’t feel bad about it. Whatever helps entertain them! Also, someone once said to always have new toys in your suitcase and diaper bag. We now do this! We go to the dollar store, or the Target dollar section, and buy weird little compact gadgets that might excite Jude. Once, that was a pad of Post-Its, and Jude stuck them on the back of the plane seat for 40 minutes. And pack all kinds of snacks, especially ones they have never tried.

When parents are afraid to go on that next trip with kids, what do you say to them?

Bobby: I would say the best thing to do is just go. Take small steps first — drive just two hours — and see how it goes. Things are bound to happen. Our flight to Alaska was so terrible with Jude that I was dripping in sweat. But it couldn’t get worse from there! And the rest of the trip was priceless.

Alli: Travel with kids is intimidating — and it’s hard. We won’t mince words: We’ve had some of our worst moments in the car or on a plane with Jude. But that’s not what you remember. The memories we have made and the photos we have are priceless. And we have seen Jude’s interest in the world come alive. You’re going to have tantrums and bad moments whether you’re at home or in Alaska. May as well be somewhere beautiful.

To see where Alli, Bobby, Jude and Reese head to next, follow @traveling_newlyweds on Instagram.

Out & About

Published August 4, 2021

By Evonna Ranade

Whether you’re taking trip or just out and about, you can make your adventure a bit easier with these great products that provide a helping hand along the way.

PHOTO COURTESY BOOGINHEAD

**SippiGrip**: A cup and toy tether that is compatible with all sippy cups, bottles and most toys. Adjusts in length and attaches to any high chair, car seat or stroller. Prevent the mess of losing your baby’s favorite piece this summer. $6.99, ages 3 – 36 months, booginhead.com

PHOTO COURTESY THE LEARNING JOURNEY

**On The Go Activity Set (3 Pack)**: Role-play toys to keep your babies and toddlers busy on the go. Includes a phone, remote control and game controller, so they can pretend to be just like Daddy and Mommy while learning about shapes, colors, numbers and more! $39.99, ages 3 months +, tlji.com

PHOTO COURTESY URBAN INFANT

**Bulkie® Sleep Mat**: A convenient and fun backpack turned into a sleeping mat! Perfect for any hang-out adventure or sleepover away from home. Thick, comfy, cozy and cushy with a 100% cotton flannel lined blanket for sweet dreams anytime, anywhere. $55.00, ages 2 – 7 years, urbaninfant.com

PHOTO COURTESY BUG BITE THING

**Bug Bite Thing**: Alleviate the itching, stinging and swelling caused by insect bites in 3 easy steps: Step 1 – Place tool over the bug bite area, Step 2- Slowly pull up on handles until you feel a suction (hold for 10 – 20 seconds) and Step 3 – Push handles down to release the suction. Time to enjoy a bug-free summer! $9.95, all ages, bugbitething.com

PHOTO COURTESY CHICCO USA

**ChiccoDuo Baby Bottle**: A unique hybrid baby bottle to keep your summer mess-free. Offers the purity of glass and the convenience of plastic in one. Baby’s milk will only touch safe glass, and you’ll never have to worry about messy accidents on the floor. $11.99, ages birth – 12 months, chiccousa.com

PHOTO COURTESY BBLÜV

**Solär**: Looking for a cool pair of shades for your little one? These polarized sunglasses offer optimal protection against UV rays. Safe, stylish and durable. The only reversible sunglasses you will need! $19.99, ages 12 months +, bbluvgroup.com

PHOTO COURTESY NUNA BABY

**SENA Aire**: Your baby will not miss out on a good night’s sleep because you’re all away from home. This portable crib opens in seconds with just a touch, making it easy to pack for a family road trip. Allows baby to have a super-fresh, deep sleep in any room. $379.95, ages birth – 2 years, nunababy.com

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

Traveling this Year?

Published May 7, 2021

Francesca Page

Yes, we’re still in a pandemic, but as a travel journalist, life for me over these last 12 months or so never came to a halt. Over the past year, I’ve still had to travel (carefully, of course) — including a handful of times with my family.

Now, we have mastered travel protocol, from everyone’s assigned hand sanitizer to prepacked snacks. For those who have not traveled since the pandemic, anxieties are understandably high, but they need not be. Here’s my lay of the land for families looking to travel.

Call it a comeback

With vaccine distributions on the rise, airports are getting busier. Still, they are nowhere near as crowded as they were before the pandemic.

There are several signs that travel is having a comeback. First, we know that more Americans are intending to travel soon. In fact, those planning to travel or go on vacation in the short term have increased slightly week over week, from 36% to 39% during the first week of March alone. This spring, U.S. airports also saw the highest number of travelers since before the pandemic began.

Technology to the rescue

Technology has helped improve health and safety measures in airports and will continue to do so.

Innovations in technology are also giving travelers the resources they need to make informed decisions, minimize risk and maximize safety while traveling. The installation of High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters on flights, combined with most airports adapting to lessen contact touch points, have made a huge impact in terms of keeping passengers safe —so much so that we know most airlines are now confidently filling the middle seat again.

It is expected that more touchless options will emerge for identity verification. thermal imaging or infrared thermographic systems are set to emerge to enable virtual health screening at airports.

What you can do

You will want to take your own precautions. If you’re planning to travel by plane or car, plan ahead. Have a strategy. Think about exactly where you’re planning to go, how you’re planning to get there and what you will do once you arrive.

If you’re driving, pack snacks for the family, drinks and an emergency roadside kit to minimize stops and reduce contact with others.

If flying, minimize taking off your mask or your children’s masks, clean your and their hands frequently and pack your own food and snacks. No matter your mode of transport, don’t forget your driver’s license, registration and insurance cards. I’ve been known to create a “travel pack” for each member of my family to carry, with face coverings, hand disinfectant (there are cool fun ones for kids now), water and disinfectant wipes.

Check travel insurance updates

Travel insurance has had to adapt to address COVID-19 concerns. During the pandemic, many travel insurance companies added coverage for trip cancelation and medical expenses due to COVID-19.

Many hotels and airlines have updated their change and cancelation policies to be more flexible, and even if your booking was originally nonrefundable, you may be able to get a full refund. In terms of travel insurance, most travel insurance policies do not cover canceled plans due to fears over coronavirus, but they may cover you if you contract it. Again, check with your insurance provider before booking your trip.

Varying rules

Different states have different rules when it comes to travel protocols, and the enforcement of those policies, have varied widely across the country.

Some states allow visitors in without quarantining if they offer proof of a negative test for COVID-19 taken within three days of arrival. But because it takes longer than three days to get results at many testing sites around the country, officials may ask visitors to quarantine until they receive proof of a negative test.

A few states, such as South Carolina, are presenting their quarantine policies as recommendations with no penalties for noncompliance, but other states are far more serious; some, such as Alaska, were threatening fines of up to $25,000 for noncompliance.

Do your research and check before you go, so you don’t end up in hot water.

Stay informed

Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for domestic and international travel.

At the time of this writing in late April, COVID testing was required for international travel.If you travel internationally, in order to return you’re now required to have a negative COVID test within the last three days.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for domestic and international travel recommends delaying your trip until fully vaccinated. If you are not fully vaccinated and you must travel, follow the CDC’s recommendations for unvaccinated people. In addition, the Federal Aviation Administration is strictly enforcing a zero-tolerance policy toward passengers who cause disturbances on flights, fail to obey flight crew in violation of the FAA’s regulations or engage in conduct that is illegal under federal law. This includes unruly behavior by refusing to wear a mask onboard the plane.

If you are booking way in advance to grab a current deal, keep in mind that some restrictions might change by the time you travel. However, if you are planning to travel internationally in the next few months, make sure you book tests both ends of your trip to avoid getting stuck.

With summer on the horizon hopefully more families will be able to travel and enjoy some down time. With planning and precautions, it’s completely possible.

Francesca Page is a travel and lifestyle journalist and founder of francescapage.com.

Reservations are No Longer Required to Enter Yosemite National Park

Published March 5, 2021

Bridalveil Fall viewed from Yosemite Valley PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT YOSEMITE MADERA COUNTY

As of March 1, visitors can pick up an entry pass at the park gate or use an Annual Pass.

Note – some restrictions are still in place and some services are not available. Please also see the FAQ page for more information about visiting the park HERE

The Fresno Yosemite International Airport also annouced that beginning April 25, Southwest Airlines will offer daily, non-stop flights from Las Vegas and Denver. The improved access to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks is welcome news for fans of the region.

Upcoming events include the Yosemite Renaissance, which was founded 36 years ago to “motivate artists to develop diverse interpretations of Yosemite and its varied landscapes.” This annual art exhibition will open at the Yosemite Gateway Art Center in Oakhurst and run from March 19 through May 30, 2021. These powerful works will travel to Kings Art Center, Carnegie Arts Center, and onward to the Yosemite Museum in October. For more information on Yosemite Renaissance click HERE.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT YOSEMITE MADERA COUNTY

For more information on Yosemite and Madera County, click HERE.

Star Gaze and Off Road In Borrego Springs

Published January 7, 2014

Enjoy desert excursions, karaoke, comfort food and other family fun just a three-hour drive away.

by Mimi Slawoff

Borrego Springs, in east San Diego County, is a quiet little town surrounded by the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. In place of fast food chains and big resorts, the main drag, Palm Canyon Drive, boasts mom-and-pop boutiques, art galleries and diners.

Streetlight-free for miles, it is a Certified International Dark Sky Community and at night the sky blooms with stars and constellations. By day – late February through early March – the desert itself blooms with colorful wildflowers and cacti.

From L.A., it’s about a three-hour drive. Stop by the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center on your way to watch a short video, see exhibits of local wildlife, plants and fossils, and stroll the quarter-mile nature trail.

Carlee’s is a fun place to fuel your family’s rugged desert adventures. PHOTO BY MIMI SLAWOFF

EAT

A local favorite, Carlee’s Place (660 Palm Canyon Dr., 760-767-3262) is a laid-back diner on the main drag, just west of the Christmas Circle roundabout. Billiards, high-backed booths, a juke box, karaoke and a wide selection of comfort food for lunch and dinner make this a good dining option for families after a day of exploring.

Kids activities at La Casa del Zorro include yoga classes, ping pong, cooking classes, poolside barbecues and stargazing programs. PHOTO BY MIMI SLAWOFF

STAY

Historic La Casa del Zorro (www.lacasadelzorro.com), originally opened in 1937, offers laid-back luxury with family-friendly rooms and amenities. Choose one of the posh poolside guest rooms and you can practically splash into one of five pools from your private patio. For more space and your own pool, consider one of the resort’s one- to four-bedroom rustic casitas. Landscaped walking paths with bridges cross a stream and lead to the resort’s library, restaurants, fitness center, spa and tennis courts. In summer, family activities include yoga classes, ping pong, cooking classes, poolside barbecues and stargazing programs. Kid-friendly games and contests take place at the main lobby pool.

PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA OVERLAND DESERT EXCURSIONS

PLAY

• You could explore the desert on your own, but you’ll see and learn more on a guided jeep tour from California Overland Desert Excursions (www.californiaoverland.com). Kids will dig rumbling along rutted roads to dry washes, a dry lake bed, rock formations, slot canyons and palm groves. Two-hour, half-day, all-day and overnight excursions are available, and snacks or lunch are included depending on the tour. Guides make stops to point out mesquite trees, desert willows, plants and wildlife while sharing area history about early settlers (ask about the whiskey-drinking explorers). Kids are welcome to scramble up rocks and hills. Keep your eyes open for black-tailed jackrabbits, kangaroo rats, tarantulas and other desert critters.

• Giant metal mammoth, dinosaur, elephant, sloth and horse sculptures aren’t what you’d expect to see in a remote desert. But at Galleta Meadows Estate (www.galletameadows.com) off Borrego Springs Road on the outskirts of downtown, you’ll find 129 life-size and larger sculptures of prehistoric and imaginary creatures, desert wildlife and historical characters. The newest is a 350-foot long serpent that appears to dip in and out of the desert floor. Crafted by sculptor Ricardo Breceda, the sculptures are easily seen from the street or by driving up to them on dirt roads.

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family adventures.

Escape the City In Big Bear Lake

Published October 16, 2013

There’s plenty of off-season family fun to be had at this snow and ski resort. It’s a rejuvenating retreat.

by Mimi Slawoff

A covered pontoon boat offers one of Big Bear’s most family-friendly (and pet-friendly) lake activities. PHOTO COURTESY BIG BEAR MARINA

On a drive to Big Bear Lake shortly after your ascent to the resort begins, the landscape changes dramatically from clogged freeways to mountain vistas, with whiff s of pine drifting in through open car windows.

Fresh mountain air, year-round recreation and diverse culinary options are about a two-hour drive from nearly anywhere in Southern California, making this mountain retreat a rejuvenating destination.

Nestled above 7,000 feet in the San Bernardino National Forest, long before it became a bustling ski resort, Big Bear (named for the grizzlies that once roamed the area) attracted gold prospectors. William Holcomb, a bear hunter, discovered gold flakes in the backcountry in 1860. The gold rush lasted about 15 years.

For my family, Big Bear holds many golden memories. It has been our go-to ski resort for a number of years, and we’ve enjoyed lake activities, hiking, biking and exploring the backcountry since our kids were tots. On recent trips, we’ve brought along our dog, Trooper. The deeper we dig, the more we discover about Big Bear, a laid-back mountain town that is home to 5,019 year-round residents.

The Town

The village’s fudge shop, old-school theaters and whimsical mom-and-pop boutiques are a refreshing change from generic, multi-level malls. Although there are several fast-food joints along Big Bear Boulevard, we prefer dining at the eclectic, independently owned restaurants.

We were pleasantly surprised to find the Himalayan Restaurant (www.himalayanbigbear.com), which serves tasty, authentic Indian and Nepalese dishes. For steak, seafood, pasta, hamburgers and salads, we like Nottinghams (www.nottinghamstavern.com).

Our favorite “hole-in-the-wall” is Grizzly Manor Café (909-866-6226), where there’s oft en a line to get in the door for a plateful of oversized pancakes or a big juicy burger, among other comfort-food selections. The grub is worth the wait.

The Mountain

Snow Summit and Bear Mountain together make up Big Bear Mountain Resorts. Both get packed with skiers and snowboarders in winter, but offer plenty of fun year-round. Mountain biking down Snow Summit is a thrilling adventure. The Scenic Sky Chair, which brings cyclists to the top of Snow Summit, is worth the ride for the views. This past summer, Big Bear unveiled the Snow Summit Adventure Park, a more formal bike park that will continue to expand with additional trails in the near future. The park also features a hiking trail and the Flying Squirrel Zipline.

Beyond the slopes is a forest that invites snowshoeing in winter, and hiking and biking the rest of the year. It was on a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail that we discovered Trooper is a born hiker. Insisting on being the leader, he trotted ahead, sniffing sky-blue and golden-hued wildflowers along a fragrant trail with lake views.

Fall, when green leaves transform into shades of gold and amber, is a spectacular time to visit Big Bear. The Aspen Grove is among the best spots to see fall colors.

The Lake

The seven-mile-long lake is a wondrous sight in winter and a glittering haven for water sports and boating spring through fall. Boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and jet skis are available for rent from local marinas. Our favorite family and pet-friendly lake activity is a canopy-covered pontoon, a roomy, easy-to-maneuver boat with comfortable seating. We pack a picnic and set sail for an afternoon of sunshine and quality family time.

Mountain biking in Snow Summit is a fun option during warmer months. PHOTO COURTESY MIMI SLAWOFF

Guided tours are an enjoyable way to learn about Big Bear’s history from locals. For a laid-back history lesson, cruise around the lake onboard the Miss Liberty Paddlewheel (with shaded upper deck) or the Time Bandit Pirate Ship, complete with swashbuckling pirates and entertainment. For a hands-on experience, grab a paddle on a two-hour Discovery Center (mountainsfoundation.org/big-bear-discovery-center) guided canoe or kayak tour and watch for beavers, great blue herons, ducklings and other wildlife.

A paved path along the lake’s north shore is ideal for walking, biking and perhaps fi nding a secluded picnic spot.

The Back Country

In contrast to the hub of Big Bear, which is as far as many tourists get, is the surrounding pristine wilderness of the national forest. Big Bear Off -Road Adventures (www.off roadadventure.com) offers several tours into the back country where you can see old mine sites and take in panoramic mountain and desert views. Our Holcomb Valley tour took place in February, so the rutt ed roads were slippery with snow and mud – making the bumpy ride inside the all-terrain Pinzgauer even more fun for my kids. The two-hour tour makes several stops for scenic views and photos.

The Calendar

For a fairly small town, Big Bear sure has a lot of big-time events happening throughout the year. The main event taking place in fall is the annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest that spans from mid-September to Oct. 26 at the convention center. Music, dancing, entertainment, contests and German food make this a family-friendly event. New this year is an outdoor stage in the Spaten Bier Garten. Concerts feature a band from Germany.

The Beds

Cabins, inns and rental homes are fairly basic, which is apropos for a rustic mountain town. Within walking distance of the village is the Northwoods Resort (www.northwoodsresort.com), the most contemporary lodging in town. We’ve stayed there twice and like the cozy, lodge-style ambiance. Usually, however, we book a vacation rental with two or more bedrooms and a full kitchen in the Moonridge area, near the ski slopes, through Village Reservations (www.villagereservations.net) or Resort Town Rentals (resortt ownrentals.com). Traveling as a couple? Cozy up at The Inn at Fawnskin (www.fawnskininn.com).

For more information about Big Bear Lake, visit www.bigbear.com.

Mimi Slawoff, Let’s Go Columnist and mother of three, writes about family travel.

Go Danish or Western in the Santa Ynez Valley

Published September 6, 2013

From the quaint town of Solvang to the rustic trails near Alisal Guest Ranch, your family can have a world of fun.

by Mimi Slawoff

Located in northern Santa Barbara County, the Santa Ynez Valley contains six distinctive, rural communities with a total population of about 20,000. The most unique and picturesque is Solvang (Danish for “sunny field”), a Danish community.

The 2013 Danish Maid is 17-year-old Emma Andersen. PHOTO COURTESY SolvangDanishDays.org

Only about 125 miles from L.A., it feels worlds away. And while it’s best known for the charming Danish town, Solvang is also home to the Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, a working cattle ranch offering families Western-themed activities.

September 20-22 is an ideal month to visit because the town celebrates Solvang Danish Days (www.SolvangDanishdays.org). In its 77^th year, the event features a torchlight parade, the introduction of the 2013 Danish Maid (17-year-old Emma Andersen), children’s activities, concerts, contests and traditional Danish food.

Solvang

I’ve been visiting Solvang since childhood, and am happy to say that not much has changed – though my husband and I applaud the addition of tasting rooms serving Santa Barbara wines.

A comfortable home base is Solvang Gardens (www.solvanggardens.com), a country-style inn with pretty gardens and water fountains. A complimentary continental breakfast is included. Located two blocks from downtown, it’s just a short walk from Solvang’s shops, galleries, museums and restaurants.

The best way to explore Solvang is on foot. When my kids were little they enjoyed searching for windmills and ornamental storks (considered good luck) atop roofs, shopping for souvenirs in toy stores, playing at Hans Christian Andersen Park and savoring yummy baked goods. Now they’re old enough to appreciate Solvang’s history.

On our last visit we toured the Elverhoj Museum of History & Art (www.elverhoj.org), which contains photographs, artwork and artifacts from Solvang’s early years. Docents demonstrate crafts, such as how lacework was woven in the “old country.”

One of our favorite places still is the Hans Christian Andersen Museum (www.solvangca.com/museum), a cozy two-story venue that doubles as a bookstore with displays of the famous author’s literary works, photographs and letters.

Even if you don’t have a fourth grader, it’s still fascinating to take a self-guided tour through Old Mission Santa Ines, the 19^th of California’s 21 missions. This mission has an active church (with English and Spanish-language Masses), gardens, a cemetery and a museum containing artifacts, vestments and artwork.

Dining in Solvang is always a treat. We favor casual eateries that serve traditional Danish fare, such as Solvang Restaurant’s Æbleskivers – pancake balls dusted with powdered sugar and served with raspberry jam. For lunch or dinner we order Frikadeller, tasty meatballs served with mashed potatoes, gravy and red cabbage.

We were pleasantly surprised to learn that the Carivintas Winery tasting room (www.carivintas.com) is kid- and pet-friendly. A youth area with puzzles, games, LEGOS, a computer and big-screen TV keep kids and teens entertained, while canines are pampered with beds and treats. The clean and spacious tasting room has comfortable seating, music, free WiFi and friendly service.

One thing still on our to-do list is to attend a performance at the700-seat open-air Festival Theater.

Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort

About two miles from downtown Solvang families can fish, swim, ride horses and feed barnyard animals. We began bringing our kids to the Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort (www.alisal.com) before they were 7, the minimum age to ride horses on trails, but they were content to feed chickens, pet pigs and help gather eggs (a daily 1 p.m. activity). Swimming, fishing on the ranch’s 100-acre, spring-fed lake and riding in a hay wagon rounded out our days. A children’s program with crafts and movies filled in the gaps.

Kids can saddle up at Allisal Guest Ranch. PHOTO BY GARY KNIGHT

Since then, we’ve returned to ride horses through rolling hills dotted with coast live oaks and grazing cattle. Last April I met up with some gal pals at the ranch, and we rode twice each day and learned to steer cattle and groom horses. We got a little dusty, but it was a good workout!

The ranch also offers golf, tennis, archery, boating, a fitness center and a spa.

After all that activity outdoors, it feels good to change from jeans and boots into something nicer for a gourmet dinner in the Ranch Room. Entrees change daily, but include fish, steak, lamb, chicken and vegetarian dishes. Breakfast and dinner are included in the Alisal’s daily rate. You can also sign up for a breakfast ride (on horseback or by hay wagon) in the hills. Although this means rising early, the views and hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, tortillas and fruit served outdoors by a fire pit are worth the effort.

By day’s end it feels good to relax in your room on a plush bed surrounded by Western artwork and a wood fireplace, but no phones or TVs.

For the best value, consider an Alisal package. The Round-Up Vacation package – offered Sun.-Thurs., Sept.-May – starts at $515 per day for two adults and includes meals and activities. Kids’ daily rates are $55 for ages 3-5, $85 for ages 6 and older.

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family fun.