The Fun of Repeat Visits: Disney Edition

by Sunny

Spring Break is upon us, and it seems every conversation begins with, “So, do you have big plans for Spring Break?” And yes, we are going to Disneyland! No surprise to those who know us well, but in talking with other families, you hear about other points of view about visiting Disney. I recently heard a tale about a 9-day beginning of summer trip to Disney World. While that trip was no doubt expensive, it also allowed plenty of time to experience nearly everything while still having some down time at the pool. If you are only taking the kids to Disney once or twice, I say go for a trip like this! We visit every year, so our trips are much shorter (3-4 days). We would rather be able to get our annual dose of Disney in shorter amounts, than only go once or twice during MJ’s childhood. But the question remains: Is there really any difference between going at the age of 3 AND 4? Will a 2-year-old really enjoy it? Here are some of my favorite things about visiting Disney year after year. Continue reading →

Valladolid: Miss one Party, Find Another

by Wendy
Follow me on twitter @wendylooksleaps

For all my posts on Spain, I still haven’t written about one of the stories Jack and I tell the most. It takes place in an area north of Madrid, where Jack had a quick business appointment. I’m convinced that whether you spend 18 days or 18 hours in a Spanish city, you will see or do something interesting. Especially if you stay flexible and change plans as opportunity presents itself.

Enjoying the view from our hotel balcony… the day after the festival

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How to Spend Quality Time in an Airport

by Wendy
Follow me on twitter @wendylooksleaps

I generally like airports. When I walk through the sliding glass doors, I feel energized by the sense of travel possibilities. Time can feel like it has stopped while you’re in this in-between space; you’re on your way but not there yet. Time is also your main focus – how long to get through security, is my flight delayed, can I order another drink before I have to trek to the gate? Airports can also be annoying, but I am determined to keep liking them. Especially after being inspired by Sunny and MJ, whose recent post proves that they really know how to keep their cool in an airport. Even when the wait is long, or the flight is cancelled, and it’s crowded, my sis and niece stay upbeat. My airport attitude is pretty good, but there’s always room for improvement. Here’s how I spend quality time in an airport: Continue reading →

An Off-Season Adventure

by Sunny

follow me on Twitter @sunnylooksleaps

In our constant attempt to save money and travel as much as possible, we often search for deals during a city’s off season to take advantage of low rates and small crowds. Of course, sometimes what we expect to be a relaxing weekend trip shapes up to be a real adventure! Read about our February trip to Minneapolis, Minnesota and see why the massive Mall of America was one of the sanest parts of the trip!

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Looks and Leaps List: Travel Dining

We are trying a new series on the blog called Looks and Leaps List, where all 9 writers share a brief perspective on a specific topic – similar to the joint post on our vacation in Hilton Head. We will kick things off with: Travel Dining. This is a subject near and dear to our hearts, as we all think delicious food, interesting restaurants, and memorable meals are an important part of travel. We’ve joked that our family crest should be a knife and fork. What have been your favorite travel dining experiences? Read on to find out some of ours:

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The American Girl Experience

by Sunny and MJ

follow me on Twitter @Sunnylooksleaps

Anyone who’s ever had a beloved American Girl doll in their family knows where I’m going with this post! MJ received her very first American Girl doll from Santa back in December and her 6-year-old world became forever changed! Maryellen Larkin goes everywhere MJ does: to the grocery, to school for show and tell, to tumbling class, to sleepovers and playdates, and naturally, even on vacation! We spent President’s Weekend at the Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minnnesota. MJ and Maryellen enjoyed lots of time at the American Girl Store there. With the help of MJ, here is a recap of our experience along with tips to share!

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Travel and Mom

by Joe

Mom’s birthday would be March 18th. She would have been 95. However, she died a year ago last October ending a wonderful and beautiful life. Mom was a traveler both physically and mentally. She was a reader, of everything. I think that is why she loved to travel. She was an explorer and a searcher for knowledge. She was a prodigious reader and went to so many places in her mind as a young girl that she wanted to see them for herself. She was an only child and through her teenage years, she took several trips around the US with her mom and dad and sometimes with her aunt Doodee. She was fortunate enough to attend and graduate from the University of Wyoming. As an English major with several years of Latin, French and German she explored, lived with, and became part of many cultures through her extensive reading. She was a several books a week kind of reader up until a year before she died at age 93. She had an incredible life. Continue reading →

Past Pictures from Perfect Paris

by Wendy
Follow me on twitter @wendylooksleaps

Like many other travelers, I LOVE Paris. I’ve been lucky enough to visit several times, but the last trip was in 2007. Too long ago. I’ve been missing it and spent some time recently looking through old photos.

Paris has been written about so much that many of the descriptions feel cliche, however accurate they may be. I’ve tried to write about my appreciation of France before. For this post, I thought I would write fewer words, and instead share a sample of photos that might reveal a little of the magic of Paris. The beautiful buildings, mysterious Churches, the love of art and beauty (and champagne), the iconic sites and neatly kept parks, the eclectic and stylish neighborhoods, the winding streets leading to your own Paris discoveries. Before you know it, you’re swept off your feet. Continue reading →

Ways I Save Money for Travel

by Wendy
Trying to save more money for travel? I love reading about the different methods people use to budget for vacations and trips, but am surprised by the strident tone some authors take on the subject. Personal finance is…well, personal, and the practicality and importance of travel varies for every person and every budget. Here are a few ways that Jack and I save money for travel – but note that it’s what works for us, personally. We’re a couple with no kids, both working full-time jobs. We agree that travel is a high priority but one that must be balanced with the expense of everyday life in a big city. We splurge on some things, save on others, and try to plan ahead. I’m not being Judge Judgerson if your approach is different. Continue reading →

Weekend R&R (Repairs and Recreation)

by Wendy
We had a great weekend recently, when Dad (Joe) traveled to DC to help us tackle labor-intensive home repairs. It was impressive to see what Jack and Dad accomplished in a matter of days. They’re both hard workers and work well together. Both have a calm presence that is reassuring to me (important when large chunks of your ceiling are suddenly missing). Not only did we save money going the do-it-yourself route, but it was fun! Home repairs can be stressful – but staying relaxed and leaving time for recreation makes all the difference. Continue reading →