Travel Essentials Spotlight

Hello from 40,000 feet! I’m writing this as we are flying across the Pond to London, and I can tell you that having just packed for five people, I thought this was the best time to do a deep dive on my Travel Essentials. This covers everything you need for packing, on the airplane and once you arrive. I will call out a few items from each category that truly stand out to me.

One is my White and Warren travel wrap that has been on every international flight with me since around 2010! Love! And as a fan of compression on airplanes, but unable to handle the feeling of compression socks, the Vim and Vigo Compression tights have been a game changer for me! I love the feeling and wouldn’t do a long haul flight without them.

Next would be my EO hand sanitizer and wipes as I make the children wipe down their airplane seats before we take off and use them throughout the flight. I will add that oversized toilet seat covers for little girls also come in handy!

The AirFly connectors are a way to make your Bluetooth headphones work with any airplane seat television and spare you from the headphones that are handed out.

I never travel without my portable steamer that changes voltages based on what country you are in! On that note I might add that I was traumatized in eight grade when I had a class trip to Australia and a friend of mine burned off a large chunk of her hair with a curling iron that was plugged into a converter. To this day I will not use a hair styling tool that is not the proper voltage of the country I am in. One of my best moves ever was to buy a European Dyson Air Wrap on eBay and I use it with all of my accessories. This is now my 3rd international trip with it and I’m thrilled!

When it comes to luggage in our family, we all have a preference. I am a Tumi girl for life and love the quality and the quantity that I can fit in a bag! For our children I absolutely love AWAY bags. They are so resilient, hold a lot and are very lightweight! Would probably be my top suggestion for someone looking for new luggage. And my husband absolutely loves the style and function of FPM Milano bags. He had a Rimowa aluminum bag that he loved, but it got so banged up on the last trip it was not repairable. Enter FPM Milano with a similar style, but with reinforced corners. The jury is still out on how they will stand the test of time.

A quick side note about the two membership programs. Clear Plus gets you to your gate faster bypassing most lines and is even quicker and easier than TSA Pre. I do want to mention that your children 17 and under are complimentary and can join you in the Clear lane.

Global Entry on the other hand requires an application and is necessary for ALL members of your party to use the Global Entry kiosks upon entry to the US. I do highly recommend this if you travel internationally on a frequent basis with your children.

I have included some of my packing lists that I use to be sure I have everything needed for me, my three children and husband. I hope this has been helpful and I wish you happy packing and Bon Voyage for wherever your next journey takes you!

Destination: St. Barths

I think most people think of St. Barths as a couples destination and while it exceeds in this department, we had the absolute best time as a family… so much so that our children are constantly asking when we are going back! While St. Barths is difficult to get to, that is probably what makes it so special. A remote little island in the middle of the bluest and warmest Caribbean water make this a place unlike any other. Top it off with the French culture and it makes it extremely unique and incredibly charming. When you ask our children what makes it so special, they will first say everything! But secondly, they will tell you that it is the only destination we have ever been to where Mommy gets in the ocean every day. The water exceeds all expectations and leaves you desiring a daily plunge or more realistically an hour long float. My skin definitely took a beating from the sun exposure, but I will tell you it was worth every sun spot. St. Barth’s is truly one of the most magical places I have ever been and I can’t wait to go back! One hot tip is that the best way to get there is though San Juan, Puerto Rico with a transfer on Tradewinds. This ended up being such a game changer and I highly recommend it over the St. Martin transfer option. Here are some of my top recommendations based on our experience.

Where to Stay

Eden Rock

We are biased as this is where we stayed and absolutely LOVED it! Everyone was so warm and welcoming to our children and we had the best room setup that we have ever experienced as a family of five (which is difficult, especially overseas). The hotel’s location couldn’t be better as you are a two minute ride from the airport and is one of the only places in the world where being situated next to the airport is hightail desirable as you get to watch the incredible take off and landings at the world’s trickiest runway. The rooms are spacious and luxurious and the beach coudln’t be any more pristine. I especially loved the swim platform to give you a destination to swim to. There is only one restaurant, The Sand Bar, that accommodated breakfast, lunch and dinner, but it is spectacular and we never were bored of the view or the cuisine. You are approximately a 12 minute car ride to Gustavia, the harbor where all of the shopping is. And another great feature is that you can walk to two of the beach clubs, Nikki Beach and Nao, if you are trying to avoid jumping in a car/moke.

Cheval Blanc

I recently had friends stay here and they said it was the perfect romantic destination. An idyllic white setting with the bluest waters and not only features a pool (Eden Rock doesn’t have a pool), but it is situated on the other side of the island so it is more tranquil and doesn’t have the Nikki Beach vibe next door. From the rooms to the cuisine, it leaves nothing to be desired and is highly recommended by all who visit.

Le Barthélemy

Another tranquil and gorgeous option is Le Barthélemy, who just receive Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award for Top 5 Best Resorts in he Caribbean for the seventh consecutive year. This property also features a pool and spa and modern rooms that are all along the water. A true gem in the Caribbean.

Le Guanahani

Rosewood’s newest offering in the Caribbean, Le Guanahani is cherished for its authentic reflection of the island. This resort offers two pools, a Spa, Fitness center, tennis court and a Rosewood Explorers children’s club. It has come highly recommended for families traveling to the island.

Where to Eat

Sand Bar

A perfect blend of melt into the ocean views coupled with exquisite cuisine. We loved every meal there including the fabulous breakfasts! This restaurant can accommodate Gluten allergies with advanced notice.

Nikki Beach

A over the top fun and eclectic mix of food and people watching that is more of a day club atmosphere. It was perfectly fine with children, just don’t go on a Sunday afternoon which is the most wild of all the days.

Bonito

A charming restaurant located above the harbor with views down below. The restaurant feels light and airy and the food was delicious. They have one of the best Children’s Menus I have ever seen with the most beautiful presentation and nutritious options. I wish all restaurants had options like this! We highly recommend this and if you have children, a special treat is the virgin cocktail served in a bubble bath complete with yellow ducky on top.

Tamarin

A jungle-like setting that is a perfect compliment after a day at the beach. There are no ocean views, but the food is a combination of French and Caribbean and lends itself to an exotic culinary experience.

Nao Beach

Located on the other side of Eden Rock than Nikki Beach, this beach club/restaurant offered the best sushi we had during our whole stay on the island. The fish was outstanding! It is smaller and more quaint than NB and I would highly recommend.

What to Do

Boat Excursion

Charter a boat excursion with Master Ski Pilou and enjoy a day out on the water exploring bays to snorkel or ride a Sea Bob.

Rent a Moke

Every hotel concierge can rent you a Moke for the day to explore the island and pose for some photos. If you do it, I highly recommend you venturing over to the airport to watch the planes land. Quite the experience!

Snorkeling at Colombier 

One of the most famous snorkeling spots on the island, this beautiful beach spot is a natural reserve which allows it to be quite vibrant with sea life. You can hike to this location or come via boat, but be forewarned, no Sea Bobs allowed.

Rent Sea Bobs 

Master Ski Pilou is conveniently set up on the beach by Eden Rock where you can rent Sea Bobs, E-Foils and other water activities to lend a hand in your fun in the ocean.

Where to Shop

Poupette St. Barths

Monique “Poupette” Giraud fell in love with the island of St. Barth at the age of 21 and decided to make it her home. Her boutique in Gustavia by all of the other fashion staples is a fun way to see her bohemian garments in person. Known for their fun prints, their lightweight pieces are perfect for the island. They also have a fabulous selection of Mommy and Me dresses and separates.

Orlebar Brown

A British Swim company uniquely for men, this store had an impressive array of St. Barths inspired swim trunks, including the infamous photos of the crystal blue water and airplanes landing like the ones pictured above.

Pipiri Boutique MC2

Here you will discover the MC2 Saint Barth brand which is now know internationally, but has a selective number of exclusive St. Barths labeled swim suits for women, men and children, like the suit pictured above. A fun souvenir that will keep you thinking about returning to the breathtaking island.

Vilebrequin

The largest Vilebrequin store in the world, this two-story beauty is the perfect place to find those difficult to locate patterns for both Men, Women and Children. Their Daddy and Me swimsuits have a cult following (me included) that leave you impressed with quality and in love with the prints!

Eden Rock Boutique

Exceptional selection of trendy brands and unique St. Barths items, this is a must go for me!

If you are planning a trip to St. Barths, you will find yourself always wanting to go back. It is truly one of a kind! Bon Voyage!

Travel Destinations: Cabo

Cabo San Lucas might be my favorite destination to travel to for multiple reasons. First and foremost it’s proximity to Arizona which means short flight which is always nice whether it is with children or without. One of our favorite places to stay, especially when it is a solo trip without the children is Las Ventanas Al Paraiso. When flying out of Scottsdale, nothing beats SetJet.

When you arrive at Las Ventanas, they are always there to greet you and make you feel like you have arrived in Paradise! The rooms are impeccably clean and have you so close to the beach that you can hear the waves crashing at night.

Las Ventanas goes above and beyond to celebrate every single occasion, from anniversary to birthdays and everything in between so don't be shy in telling them anything you are celebrating.

The Alebrije and Sea Grill restaurants sit close to the ocean and allow for spectacular viewing of the changing colors of the clouds at sunset. The food is delicious and it doesn't get any better listening to the ocean waves.

Arbol, however, has quickly become the restaurant they are know for with the stunning setting amongst the trees and pool and the most spectacular cuisine featuring Asian and Indian influences combined with the fresh seafood of the region. Certainly a gem of a restaurant located within your hotel.

The next best kept secret is the speakeasy known as La Botica. A Prohibition Era-inspired bar that offers the best cocktails, but most importantly the best singer and musicians in all of Cabo and maybe the world. Rosalia de Cuba has the most incredible voice and every coupled with her incredible team of musicians they make dancing until the wee hours of the night seem like the only thing to do while in Cabo.

And in case the night gets away from you while at La Botica, they now have a Taco/Hamburger/French Fry cart that greets you on your way out for a late night snack. Brilliant!

Back to those added romantic touches, they are quick to decorate and make everyone feel special and loved whether greeted by rose petals, a drawn bubble bath and balloons.

Truly an elevated experience that passes every bit of The High Bar standards! We can’t want to go back!

A Trip of a Lifetime: The Masters

There is a reason it is called a “Tradition unlike any other!” Visiting Augusta, Georgia during the Masters tournament was a dream come true, especially for a 10 year old. Our older son was born on Masters weekend and has had a Masters themed birthday party since he was 4 year old. His dream was to go to The Masters Tournament on his 10th birthday. It was not easy, but we made that dream a reality and it truly was the most magical weekend with our first born.

I would highly recommend the Par Three Tournament on Wednesday, especially if you are taking children. The one caveat is that I would suggest age 10 as the youngest age to take children as there is a LOT of walking involved and it is not for the faint of heart. The Par Three is so special as it is one of the only days you can take cameras in. Not cell phones with cameras, I might add. We are talking point and shoot cameras only. This is unique as you can actually take pictures on the gorgeous property of Augusta National as well as potentially get some pictures of the players.

The proper etiquette is that only children are allowed to ask players to sign the yellow August National flags, and some players are more willing to do so than others. Below is a picture of this years Masters Champion Scottie Scheffler signing our son’s flag. Please keep in mind that this was on Wednesday! Little did we all know that he would be the big winner!!

The other must do at The Masters is the gift shop! There is usually quite a long line just to enter, but it is worth it! They have everything from Masters ties, backpacks (always our sons choice for school) as well as countless other knick knacks you never knew you needed. It makes for wonderful gifts as well since most things can only be purchased on site.

Thursday-Sunday are a whole new ball game as even more people arrive for those days. We found that Wednesday-Friday was a perfect amount of time for us as we got to set up shot on both the 18th hole as well as Amen Corner which are both must do’s in my opinion! The most incredible part is that on our son’s actual birthday, he got a ball from Tiger Woods. Little does he know that we will never be able to top that birthday and The Masters will forever be cemented in all of our minds as a tradition like no other.

Traveling with Littles - SLC

Salt Lake City, Utah

For most of you planning a get-a-way, Salt Lake City is probably not a front runner for a destination! But in the off chance you have to travel to a conference or you are looking for something different before heading up to the Mountains, I have your inside guide!

Our favorite hotel is The Grand America which is an institution in the area! It’s strong architecture and stunning lobby make it an attractive sight, but not necessarily screaming kid friendly. The amazing part is that it actually is and offers an incredible toy store/candy store within the hotel to rival those of Disneyland! Yes, I said Disneyland! To top it off their Christmas decorating starts in October and features a life-size Gingerbread House and spectacularly lit up gardens.

The interior courtyard is a great place to run around and they have an indoor and outdoor swimming pool that is great for both the hot and cold months of the year (it is early October and the high is 42 today). The light rail train has a stop right outside the hotel and runs into Downtown which is an exciting activity for a 3 and 7-year-old. They also have warm chocolate chip cookies in the lobby throughout the day, which makes for a fantastic reward for your little ones.

Our favorite restaurant by far is called Valter’s and while it is not a “kid-friendly” institution and definitely screams special occasion, you can get away with going on the early side if your children can handle dressing up and a “fine dining” experience! I won’t lie, our children were borderline but we enjoy exposing the children to opportunities like that when we travel to make them appreciative getting to dine with mommy and daddy and they for now are willing to rise to the occasion. Valter is there almost every evening and delights with his authentic take on hearty homemade Italian. The food is truly divine!

The Children’s Store, Jou Jou, is beyond fabulous! The toy selection is very well sourced and covers a wide range of ages and that candy display is one of the prettiest I have ever seen! Don’t forget to peek at their board game collection which features the most incredible wall display of original board games. One more perk for children and adults alike, is their pastry shop, Bonne Vie, featuring hand made French pastries that are sure to delight the pickiest of connoisseurs.

Luckily getting there is easy as most airports offer non-stop service to SLC with Southwest and Delta being the two airlines that operate most out of that airport. They redid the City Creek Shopping Center almost 8 years ago and you can find everything from an Apple Store to Nordstrom’s and they are conveniently located across the street from the Salt Palace Convention Center.

My favorite part about Utah is the skiing in the winter and I have a special spot in my heart for the darling town of Park City. We will be going there this winter and I will be sure to do a post about it then!