It usually happens after a birthday or holiday.

The gifts are opened. The excitement is high… for about a day. Maybe two.

And then everything quietly blends into the background.

The toys get mixed in with everything else. The novelty wears off. Life moves on.

But then something else happens.

You mention a trip you took.

And suddenly, your child remembers everything.

The hotel. The pool. The random snack they loved. The weird little moment you barely thought twice about.

That is when it clicks.

It was never really about the stuff.

The Shift More Parents Are Making

There is a quiet shift happening in how families are approaching childhood.

Less focus on things.

More focus on experiences.

Not in a pressure-filled, “we need to do more” kind of way.

Just a more intentional one.

Because experiences don’t get tucked away in a closet or outgrown in a season.

They stay.

They show up later in conversations, in confidence, in the way kids approach new situations.

It’s Not About Big Trips (This Is Where Most People Get It Wrong)

When people hear “experience-based childhood,” they often picture big vacations and expensive destinations.

But that is not what this is about.

Some of the most meaningful experiences are simple:

• A weekend road trip

• Exploring a nearby town you have never visited

• Letting your child help plan a day out

• Trying something new together, even if it is small

Sometimes, it is just about making the day feel different.

Even something like mapping out a drive using a tool like Roadtrippers can turn a basic outing into an adventure, with unexpected stops and little moments you would have otherwise missed.

It is not about how far you go.

It is about stepping outside your normal routine.

Why Travel Hits Differently for Kids

Travel changes the pace of everything.

There is something about being in a new place that naturally pulls kids out of autopilot.

They notice more.
They ask more questions.
They try things they might normally avoid.

Even small changes in environment can:

• Build adaptability

• Encourage independence

• Strengthen problem-solving skills

• Boost social confidence

And you can see it happening while you are there.

They become a little braver. A little more curious. A little more themselves.

Let Them Be the “Co-Pilot”

One of the simplest ways to make travel more meaningful?

Let your kids be part of it.

Not just along for the ride, but involved.

That might look like:

• Letting them pick one activity

• Giving them a choice between two options

• Asking what they want to try or see

If you are planning a bigger trip, this is where something like Airbnb Experiences can be surprisingly helpful. Letting your child scroll through and pick an activity, whether it is a cooking class, outdoor adventure, or something hands-on, gives them a sense of ownership before you even leave.

It does not have to be complicated.

But when kids feel included, they show up differently.

More engaged. More excited. More invested in the experience.

Making Travel Feel Easier (Not Overwhelming)

One of the biggest reasons parents default back to “stuff” instead of experiences?

Travel can feel like a lot.

The planning. The packing. The logistics.

Which is why where you stay matters more than people realize.

Platforms like Kid & Coe focus on family-friendly spaces that are actually designed with kids in mind. Think layouts that make sense, homes that feel livable, and fewer of those “this is not kid-proof at all” moments.

Because when travel feels easier, you are more likely to do it again.

Easy Ways to Create an Experience-Based Childhood

You do not need to overhaul your life to make this shift.

You can start small:

• Swap one gift for an experience

• Plan one intentional outing each month

• Say yes to something spontaneous once in a while

• Let go of the idea that it has to be perfectly planned

This is not about doing more.

It is about making space for moments that matter.

The Part That Stays With Them

Years from now, your child will not remember every toy they had.

But they will remember:
The trip where everything went wrong but you laughed anyway
The place they tried something new
The moment they felt brave

Travel does not just give kids memories.

It quietly shapes how they see the world.

And maybe more importantly…

How they see themselves in it.

The post The Trips They’ll Remember: Why More Parents Are Choosing Experiences Over Stuff appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

By Jon Sumroy

I am mad

Bangkok, Thailand. Six of us crammed into a two-seat Tuk-Tuk (a three-wheel rickshaw). My wife, four children and me; careering through the traffic, the pedestrians, the lights and the fumes. Wind in our faces, legs out the sides, bags piled on laps. It’s part of the culture, the experience, the vacation. But it’s crazy!

We’re never so reckless at home: never allowing more people than seatbelts, always fastened, luggage stored correctly, respecting the laws of the road. Why do humans so easily excuse ourselves, ignore common sense, justify our actions and take ridiculous risks?

Everyone is mad

Yet we do this every day, with our children.

Fifty percent of US kids don’t have the correct booster seat when carpooling^[1]. One in five parents whose children carpool say they “bend the rules”, allowing children to ride without belts, booster or child restraints. Two-thirds of parents say they notice other carpool drivers bending the rules, too.^[2]

And it’s not just in our own cars. Taxis are exempt from the car seat laws, but this does not make them safe. Rental car companies extort $5 a day, for a seat; covered in another child’s dinner or worse. On vacation, when the airline won’t allow extra hand luggage. With a friend, relative or neighbor for a quick journey round the corner. Even with safety seats, you can’t fit three in a row, so it’s “scissors/paper/stone” to see who takes the risk. And then we have big kids. Not big enough to graduate to adult seatbelts, but big enough to fell babyish compared to their peers who have. How many parents succeed in the daily fight; or just give in.

Five Top Tips for Car Seat Sanity

So what to do? Well, it comes down to planning and discipline.

Carpools

You always have carseats for your own children but not for others in the pool. Set up a routine: leave your child’s seat with school bags overnight, ready for the next day when the carpool arrives. Lobby schools to provide storage so seats will be available for the journey home.

Relatives

It’s about time-management. Build time into every plan to juggle the boosters from car to car. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) report more than 20 percent of parents rarely talk about the type of restraint their own child uses in another person’s car. Whenever someone else takes your child, have the ‘carseat’ discussion.

Vacations

I was mad in Thailand, but you don’t need to be. Consider you carseats as valuable luggage. Wrap it well, check it in, add ‘fragile’ labels, examine for damage and use it on every journey.

Rentals

I had a long conversation recently with a leading rental agency employee. He confided that, in the cut-throat world of car rentals, margin are so slim that they can make more money renting the booster seats than they do the cars. A typical booster cost $30 and they can rent it out for $5 a day for six months. Do the math! It’s not surprising that they are dirty and disgusting. Take your own carseats! You know its history and you know where it’s been.

Three-in-a-Row

We all have to make sacrifices. And this is one. There are very few cars, even large ones, designed to accommodate three carseats in a row. Manufacturers add space and comfort to the side seats at the expense of the middle. Don’t take the risk! A child who needs a carseat, needs a carseat. In a collision, the injuries a child sustains when only using the adult seatbelt can be horrific. Please … just don’t do it.

The future

Now is the time for some future gazing. Would’t it be great is there was a booster seat that was so small, yet so safe, it would be easy for a child to have it with them at all times. Something so advanced, compact and portable, it could be stored almost anywhere. That way children could always be safe, no matter whose car they were in. Watch this space http://igg.me/at/mifold/.

About the author: Jon Sumroy is the inventor and CEO of mifold – the Grab-and-Go booster seat, the most advanced, compact and portable booster seat in the world. mifold is more than 10x smaller than a regular booster seat and just as safe.

^[1] Carpooling and Booster Seats: A National Survey of Parents – PEDIATRICS Vol. 129 No. 2 February 1, 2012 pp. 290 -298(doi: 10.1542/peds.2011-0575)

^[2] Many kids using safety belts should ride in booster seats – Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute – Status Report, Vol. 49, No. 9 | November 6, 2014

The post Crazy Risks with Car Seats appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

No matter how hard you might try to deny it, the fact is that fall is creeping around the corner, little by little! So if you’ve caught yourself silently counting down the days or even dreading summer’s ending in a big way—maybe back-to-school shopping has your blood pressure already boiling—take heart! There is a solution to your post-Labor Day worries.

The solution is known as relaxation, and so to help you out with taking things slowly, Omni Hotels has announced a few exciting deals for travelers across the country.

With its ‘Linger Longer’ package, guests can kick back, relax and enjoy the serenity of summer as it’s meant to be enjoyed. It’s a deal really too great to pass up, and is available now through Labor Day. Guests who book the ‘Linger Longer’ package at a participating property will receive 10% off a one-night stay. But the savings don’t end there! Booking the ‘Live Longer’ package will also save you 15% off a two-night stay, and 20% off a stay of three nights or more. http://www.omnihotels.com/specials/linger-longer

In addition to lingering longer while on vacation, Omni offers vacationers other reasons to get away this summer. Guests who choose to book the ‘A Reason to Resort’ package at a signature property within brand’s Resort Collection will also be entitled to 10% off a one-night stay; 15% off a two-night stay; and 20% off a stay of three nights or more. Travelers who book the package will also receive daily breakfast for each registered guest. http://www.omnihotels.com/specials/reason-to-resort

With memorable family excursions, activities such as falconry, Segway tours and zip lining, plus kid-centric adventures and camps that will have your kids smiling from ear to ear, Omni Hotels & Resorts can help you and your family find countless Reasons to Resort and Linger Longer—and all in top-notch accommodations!

The following list offers just a taste of the festivities that await at Omni properties across the nation. So dig in—and chill out!

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa – Carlsbad, CA

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa

This Spanish Colonial-style getaway with manicured gardens and Southern California charm is 4 miles from LEGOLAND, and 29 miles from both the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. The luxurious rooms, suites and villa suites are decorated in warm tones, providing modern amenities and timeless elegance. The resort offers four dining options, eight swimming pools, waterslides, two championship golf courses, and countless other ways to relax, including the #1 wellness spa in the country.

The resort also offers Kidtopia Kids’ Club, which includes a journey that takes children through a magical forest where they get to see sea creatures in a wonderland all “underwater.” Craft-making, as well as the land and sea elements of the journey, will stimulate imaginations and keep children engaged in the kid-tastic fun!

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa – Rancho Mirage, CA

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/palm-springs-rancho-las-palmas

Set against a backdrop of mountains and palm trees in the world-famous heart of Palm Springs, this sun-drenched resort set on 240 acres of land is 3 miles from upscale shopping at The Shops on El Paseo and 12 miles from downtown Palm Springs. The spacious rooms and suites provide respite from the sun with plush bedding and modern amenities. The resort has five restaurants, as well as pools, a golf course, and tennis courts.

Splashtopia, the resort’s on-site waterpark for the young and young at heart, includes a 425-foot lazy river, a cliff-side hot tub, two 100-foot waterslides, a sandy beach and water-play zones with fountains and sprinklers.

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort – Hilton Head, S.C.

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/hilton-head

This luxurious beachfront resort is set in South Carolina’s breathtaking low country. The all-suite property offers matchless modern amenities and accommodations with mini kitchens and balconies, as well as ocean and resort views. The resort features two pools, as well as two beachside hot tubs. There’s also an 11-mile on-site lagoon system for canoeing and kayaking, as well as pristine sandy beaches and beachside cabanas.

As a special treat for kids, the Seaside Kid’s Club will keep them entertained with hours of activities! With daily themes to and countless resort activities, including Talk Like a Pirate Tuesday, Wildlife Wednesday and Super Soaked Saturday, kids will definitely want to linger a bit longer at the Seaside Kid’s Club.

Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort – Amelia Island, FL

http://www.villasofameliaisland.com/

Set on 1,350 acres of a barrier island off the Northeast Florida coast, this oceanfront getaway boasts stunning views and endless reasons to relax! The resort offers guests spacious rooms and suites with balconies and patios, along with modern amenities and top-notch service. There are nine restaurants, and the largest poolscape in northern Florida with a children’s splash park, several pools and two hot tubs. There’s also a 3.5 mile-long private beach, championship golf, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

For kids, there’s the Gamers teen lounge, Heron Cove’s Adventure Golf and the award-winning Camp Amelia. Camp Amelia provides youth and family activities, allowing kids to explore the resort and discover the nature, science and salt life of the surrounding environ through its Nature Center. The interactive learning is offered through themed sessions. With Camp@Night, for instance, kids can create keepsakes and engage in fame time with other kids.

Omni Mount Washington Resort – Bretton Woods, N.H.

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bretton-woods-mount-washington

The famed retreat of presidents, poets and celebrities, this New England resort with Spanish Renaissance architecture is set in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and is a National Historic Landmark. The richly appointed rooms and suites feature modern amenities and upscale décor. There are five dining venues, indoor and outdoor pool, cabanas and hot tubs, as well as award-winning alpine and Nordic ski centers, horseback riding and sleigh rides.

The resort also features the Kinderwoods Adventure Playground, which is located at the bottom of the Bretton Woods ski area. The Adventure Playground offers plenty of outdoor activities for smaller guests, such as mini-zip lines, rope bridges, Tarzan swings, tunnels, and other adventurous, heart-pounding activities for kids. Children can also enjoy the resort’s Go Kart Park, a perfect place to experience off-roading while in New England.

Omni Bedford Springs Resort – Bedford, PA

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bedford-springs

Set in the breathtaking Cumberland Valley, this historic golf and spa resort is known for its world-class spa, and is 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, as well as 2 hours from Washington, D.C. This luxury property is also a National Historic Landmark, and its legacy dates back over 200 years ago at Bedford Springs when eight mineral springs gained fame for the site as a place for healing and relaxation. The resort features sophisticated rooms and suites with balconies. There are five restaurants, a golf course, an aquatic center with an outdoor pool and a heated mineral springs-fed indoor pool, and 25 miles of hiking trails.

As a delight for children, the resort also offers The Anderson’s Explorers Activity Center, which allows kids to learn all about Dr. Anderson, the first person to actually discover the healing properties of the resort’s famed spring water. Kids can also seek out an adrenaline rush by playing indoor and outdoor laser tag. A fun, no-to-be-missed excursion is the Hook ‘Em and Cook ‘Em package. The package teaches children the basics of fishing during hands-on fishing sessions.

Both packages are available for booking now through September 7, 2015. For additional information, please visit omnihotels.com or call 1-800-The-Omni. Travelers or media can also follow Omni Hotels & Resorts at www.Facebook.com/OmniHotels and Twitter.com/OmniHotels.

The post Linger Longer with Relaxing Deals from Omni Hotels & Resorts appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

This summer, hear the call of the wild and be ready! Make the most of your camping adventures with these fun and creative ideas!

1.  No pizza delivery in your neck of the woods? Repurpose your pie iron to create on-the-go pizzas while camping. To avoid mess, wrap the pie iron with foil, allowing toast, pizza and apple pie to taste exactly as they’re meant to.

2.  No space for a tackle box? Use a Tic Tac box instead.

3.  To be both one with nature and keep the mosquitoes away, add sage to the campfire. It will keep you safe and smelling nice.

4.  Nothing beats a warm s’more, right? Wrong! To truly see the stare, add a roasted marshmallow and melted chocolate to an Oreo. You don’t have to be a kid to love this messy goodness.

5.  Make your own stovetop popcorn out of aluminum foil and kernels. Get the direction here. If you’re not so adventurous, you can still have fun by watching the prepackaged stovetop popcorn dance and expand over the fire.

6.  Use paper bags to make delicious breakfasts. Eggs and bacon, anyone? Get the directions here: http://realfamilycamping.blogspot.com/2011/08/paper-bag-eggs-classic-camping-recipe.html

7.  If you’re ever lost in the woods, put them to good use—use an acorn cap to whistle for help. Get the helpful instructions here: http://www.wikihow.com/Whistle-Using-an-Acorn-Cap

8.  Toasted marshmallows are good, but marshmallows dipped in Bailey’s? Great! This food of the gods will keep you wanting its roasted goodness even when you aren’t camping.

9.  Jell-O shots might be a chapter of your life you’d like to forget, but flaming Jell-O marshmallow shots are something you will never forget! Simply fill a marshmallow with Jell-O mixture and dip it in rum. Get the recipe here: http://www.tablespoon.com/recipes/flaming-marshmallow-jelly-shots/26422420-8e87-4b46-9641-5b85f22cf8e2

10.  Bring all the seasonings you’d like without taking up space by filling straws with the mixture and then burning the ends with a lighter. The great thing is that you can reseal them to use later.

11.  Use stackable pill containers to both carry your condiments and seasonings and keep them organized. You can use a marker to label them.

12.  Looking for a savory s’more? Try this on for size! Stuff a mushroom with blue cheese and wrap it in bacon. That’s right—blue cheese filled bacon-wrapped mushroom s’mores. You have to try it to believe it. Get the recipe here: http://www.laurenslatest.com/blue-cheese-filled-bacon-wrapped-mushrooms/

13.  Have any old mint tins lying around? Use them as emergency supply containers for toilet paper, a lighter or pocket knife. If you’re ever lost in the woods or away from the bathroom, you’ll be glad you did.

14.  Need your egg fix while camping? A 16-ounce plastic water bottle can effectively carry 8-9 large eggs. By scrambling them beforehand, you can transport them easily and avoid an unwanted mess.

15.  Forget what you learned about making fires while in the Scouts? No problem! Corn chips, such as Fritos, can make for a wonderful kindling substitute when building a fire.

16.  Need a little light? Make a lantern with a tuna can and a small candle. The foil will help to illuminate the light.

17.  Tired of lugging around tubes of toothpaste? Well now you don’t have to. Squeeze toothpaste into small dots on a paper plate. Let it sit for 2-3 days, then sprinkle with baking soda. Place the toothpaste dots into a re-sealable bag and you now have portable toothpaste without the fuss of a messy tube.

18.  Use a mason jar to make an amazing sangria concentrate worthy of your camping trip. It’s so good, however, you might want to make it anytime. Get the recipe here: http://www.mightymrs.com/recipe-items/camping-sangria/

The post 18 Creative Tips for Camping Like an Adult appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Buying gifts can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Especially when you’re shopping for people who are as picky as a porcupine or seem to have everything.

With Father’s Day around the corner, you’re might be revving up for the big day if you haven’t already purchased anything. And though gifts aren’t needed to show appreciation, they’re certainly a great way to express gratitude. To this end, you want to be sure that the special man in your life receives a special gift, one that shows your thanks and appreciation! And most importantly, you want to be sure that your gift is something that he can truly appreciate, something different than the standard tie or pair of socks.

The following list comprises a few travel-themed gifts that are a bit off-the-grid. They’re perfect for the thrill-seekers, go-getters and adventure-hounds in your life. They’re also great for fathers who are a bit pickier—or who seem to have it all already. And the best part is that they’re all wholly unique. Enjoy!

Cork Globe

This globe will highlight his travels in style! That summer you both went wine tasting in Italy or Oregon? Pin it! That’s right—pushpins and earth tones allow for a three-dimensional memory of where he’s been and where he still wants to go.

Portable Briefcase BBQ Grill

Not only does he look good going to the office, now he can turn heads while barbequing as well! This grill shapes up to look like a stainless steel briefcase, making it the perfect gift for portable dining. Take it to the beach, lake or even in the backyard.

WiFi and USB Cufflinks

Though cufflinks can rank right up there with ties as far as what fathers get all too often, these cufflinks are definitely cool! He can look good and listen to good sounds, or get a bit of work done all via a set of silver cufflinks. Be careful, though. These bad boys jut might have him thinking he’s the next James Bond!

Titanium Multi-tool Collar Stays

Collar stays are something that have withstood the test of time. With this titanium version, he’ll withstand the test of fashion and time! What’s more, these collar stays are multi-functional, meaning he can also crack open a bottle of beer with them, use them as a handy screwdriver or find other ways to use them and be his own MacGyver!

Shot Flask

Flasks might come a dime a dozen, but his doesn’t have to. The ever-handy shot flask adds a shooter into the mix! Most appear as an embellishment in the center of the flask. When he’s ready, he can simply pop out the shot glass and pour a measured dose of the good stuff!

Stainless Steel Beard and Mustache Comb

Feel good, look good and look good doing it! Now he can keep his facial hair groomed while on the go and all with a stylish, portable comb.

Power Card

These sleek and efficient power hubs have been all the rage for some time now. Maybe it’s time that the father in your life had one too. Power cards allow for recharging at the drop of a hat, and as such, are extremely versatile. Find a wallet-sized card with power and beauty and give a gift that’s both functional and fashionable.

Anywhere Travel Guide

This isn’t your average guide—the Anywhere Travel Guide has guts! In reality, the guide is a pack of 75 cards that provide prompts for you to act on while traveling. Instead of lugging around a tome about the gardens of a city, why not dive into fun and whimsy by pulling out a random card and acting on the instructions? Fathers are sure to love the excitement of this guide. And the great thing is that it can be used anywhere and at all times!

The post Travel-themed Gifts for Father’s Day appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

There are many listsicles out there dedicated to countless must-see places and things to do before kicking the proverbial bucket. That being said, and though the end is certainly unavoidable, why not just make plans to visit a few of these places as a way of seeing new things, of walking a new path or the same one but in a different light? Why not visit with a sense of new beginnings rather than the overwhelming sense of any end.

Traveling allows us to always renew ourselves, to regenerate, as it were, and become someone bigger, better and greater due to the added sense of accomplishment in not only getting to our destination but in exploring said destination. Moreover, we gain by gathering and sharing our garnered knowledge about said destination.

So with that in mind, the following list should inspire you to see a few states and parks around the country that have always been there, but have just needed to be viewed with a pair of fresh eyes. Enjoy!

1. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

With naturally stunning colors and unique structural design, these caves near Page, Arizona will have you snapping up pictures and smiling with giddy delight. The slot canyon is divided into two sections, “The Corkscrew” and “The Crack.”

2. Oneonta Gorge, Oregon

If you want to feel like you’re in a fairytale all your own, visit the Colombia River Gorge, where the Oneonta Gorge, which has its own unique set of aquatic and woodland vegetation, is set to inspire your own tales! The walls are covered in ferns and moss, and on a warm summer day, the creek can be accessed by visitors.

3. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington

Just in time for April, this “driving” tour will inspire the family and have you feeling like you’ve booked a trip to the Netherlands. The festival that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to the fields from April 1-30 is a must-see for any trip to Washington State.

4. Watkins Glen State Park, New York

Visit Rainbow Bridge and Falls in the Finger Lakes region, south of Seneca Lake. It’s altogether otherworldly, and will most certainly take your breath away.

5. Hamilton Pool, Texas

This has long been a favorite spot for both tourists and residents during summer. This natural pool is located just outside of Austin.

6. Smoky Mountains, North Carolina/Tennessee

Being the most visited national park in the U.S., it’s no wonder why people keep coming back to the beauty of this Appalachian Mountains subrange.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana

The park is located near Kalispell, Montana and even borders parts of Canada, boasting over 1,000,000 acres of land. Definitely a sight worth seeing!

8. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Be a part of history by visiting this rocky range of mountains that was once hunting grounds to Native Americans—view the sights at the famous red and orange mountains known as Badlands National Park.

9. Nā Pali Coast State Park, Hawaii

Though not able to access the Na Pali coast by car, add a bit of adventure to your travels by accessing the coast via helicopter or hiking. By taking the Kalalau Trail, you can also access a few caves along the coast.

10. Bryce Canyon, Utah

There are many national parks that span the state of Utah, but Bryce is certainly a crowd favorite. Bryce Canyon is a collection of naturally occurring amphitheaters that are famous for geological structures known as hoodoos. Hoodoos are formed by erosions from frost and streams, and it’s these weather conditions that have made the red, orange and white rocks such beautiful sights to behold.

The post Gorgeous Views to Visit Before…Well, Just Because You Can! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

With a new year having commenced, a new season already knocking on the door and Daylight Savings Time back again, it might seem like the old is making way for the new entirely.

If you’d like an exciting blast from the past, however—a rebirth, as it were, a revival of sorts—why not embark upon a festive quest. That’s right! A quest that is all travel and no travail—and one for the entire family—is waiting for you right in Arrington, Tennessee.

If you’re up to the task at hand, visit the Tennessee Renaissance Festival in Arrington where you can travel to all parts of the realm in a 16^th Century family-fun festival!

Owned and operated by Mike and Jackie Freeman, the festival celebrates the merriment of a Renaissance marketplace, with over 60 skilled artisans from all over the country in attendance and with their unique wares on display and for sale.

Celebrating its 30^th year, the Tennessee Renaissance Festival will kick off this year’s festivities on May 2, 2015, with advance ticket sales online beginning April 1st. This gives merry-makers ample time to purchase tickets. Choose from day passes, two-day passes, season passes or even group sales.

An impressive line-up, including variety shows, arts & crafts, traditional food and drinks, games, exhibits, and reenactments, will be held in a reconstructed English village from the 16^th Century, known as Covington Glen.

The village features its own reconstructed castle as well—Castle Gwynn—with tours of the 1^st floor and castle grounds included in your festival admission. Weather permitting, tours are held each day from 11:00am to 3:00pm. Tour Historic Castle Gwynn at The Tennessee Renaissance Festival

Castle Gwynn has an impressive history with the Tennessee Renaissance Festival, starting with the fact that it’s the only festival held at an actual castle—or castell—as it’s also called. Castell Gwynn (White Castle) is a modern-day replica of a 12^th Century border castle in Wales, known as Castell Coche (Red Castle).

Castell Coche served as the prototype for Mike Freeman’s dream house—he designed the initial sketch in his architecture class while in high school—with many talented electricians, engineers, builders, masons, and designers adapting the castle for modern living.

As depicted in the heraldic arms designed by Mike Freeman, Castle Gwynn will eventually be completed as a four towered structure. Currently, two of the towers are completed with a new middle section of brick arches and timber connecting the two. Repair and resurfacing work have also been done—resulting in the entire castle exterior being resurfaced—due to the effects from construction on nearby I-840.

When the festival moved to an adjoining site across New Castle Road due to construction on the I-840, a timber-framed covered bridge was constructed to connect the two structures.

To view the castle, guests must use the Castle Tour Bus both to and from the castle grounds. Use of the bus is also included in same-day festival admission.

At Castle Gwynn, both young and old alike can delight in impressive exhibits and replicas.

Like weaponry and expert craftsmanship? Be sure to check out the Rose-Dan Freeman Collection of Weaponry, including armor and swords, while touring the castle. And don’t miss the elegant designs of Imogene Stone—the festival’s Royal Tapestry Designer—which will also be on display at Castle Gwynn in the Needlework and Tapestry Collection.

The Tennessee Renaissance Festival also puts on Theme Weekends, with this year’s themes as follows:

• May 2-3: Opening Weekend – Family Discount and Community Appreciation

A family discount, this weekend only, to celebrate the opening of the 2015 festival. With the purchase of two regularly-priced tickets, two grandparents and all children 12 years and younger will receive free admission!

• May 9-10: Mother’s Day Weekend

Celebrating Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 10^th) all weekend long, the first 400 mothers through the gates will receive a specially-crafted rose!

• May 16-17: Pirate Invasion Weekend

See a bevy of pirates galore—and dress up as one yourself if you’d like—during this themed weekend of swashbuckling fun! Kids can enter the Children’s Pirate Costume Contest or take part in the Children’s Costume Fashion Show that will also be held this weekend as well!

• May 23-24-25: Celtic Weekend

A Celtic touch to the festivities, with various games and contests that will focus on all things Celtic. Listen for Celtic melodies throughout Covington Glen. Kilts are definitely encouraged!

As the Tennessee Renaissance Festival has always strived to be a fun and fascinating children’s venue, the faire offers a number of free—free!—children’s activities.

• Children’s Knighting Ceremony, where young festival goers can become Ladies and Masters, knighted by Queen Elizabeth as Peers of the Realm of Covington Glen.
• Children’s Area, sponsored by Nashville Parent.
• Visit of Robin Hood and Maid Marian, who will involve the young ones in an interactive stage performance.
• Children’s Arts and Crafts Area, with supplies provided by News Channel 5.
• Children’s Costume Contest, in Arts and Crafts Area
• Children’s Costume Fashion Show on Pirate Weekend, where kids can dress up and display their pirate costumes onstage.
• Castle Gwynn Educational Tour

There will be plenty of other activities for children as well, while some shows are reserved for only the bravest of adults! For a full line-up of participants and events, or to download the Daily Entertainment Schedule, visit:  Entertainers and Performers at the Faire – The Tennessee Renaissance Festival

Keep in mind that, though costumes and costume accessories are allowed, there are exceptions. In particular, the Tennessee Renaissance Festival has a new Weapons Policy in place for 2015. Included in this policy are the following noteworthy warnings: (1) all swords, whether brought as part of a costume or purchased on the festival grounds, must be sheathed and peace-tied at all times. No exceptions! (2) Weapons will be inspected at the entrance for the safety of everyone; also (3) arrows must have tips removed and (4) firearms, whether working or replica, are strictly prohibited. For more information on weaponry and safety in general, please read the Rules of the Realm, here: Rules of the Realm – The Tennessee Renaissance Festival

For Educational Day information, and information on School Days at the Tennessee Renaissance Festival, be sure to visit the website for updates or reach out to the festival via its Contact Page: Contact Information, Comments and Questions – The Tennessee Renaissance Festival

So if you’re not quite ready to say adieu to the past, try saying huzzah instead! Then go ahead and visit the Tennessee Renaissance Festival in Arrington, Tennessee. After a rewarding day of ribaldry for the entire family, you’ll be glad you did.

For complete information, be sure to visit the festival’s main page: The Tennessee Renaissance Festival – your finest entertainment venue just outside of Nashville

The post A Bit of Old Britain at the Tennessee Renaissance Festival (May 2015) appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Though daylight savings time is almost here again, which means that the spring season is upon us, the cold weather is far from over. For many of us, actually, this is the time of year when the cold weather season really shows its true colors!

And yet for all of the season’s potential pitfalls, a great many of us still feel that it’s the best time to travel. Traveling during the shoulder season, or offseason as it’s commonly known, can in fact save you a great deal of money. Moreover, destinations tend to have a different feel about them—perhaps the promise of renewal—during the spring season, something not exactly there in the fall or summer.

Regardless, if you love cold weather travel or simply happen to be traveling during the next few months, you’ll want to make sure that, above all, you have the right cold weather accessories for you and your family.

Dealing with both inclement weather and ornery family is a tall order indeed. But it doesn’t have to be. The following 3 reminders can make all the difference between traveling with a frozen itinerary and exploring the world with a fresh perspective on the cold!

1. Layers, Layers, Layers!

It’s something we’re used to hearing related to packing, but we often need reminding of it. The trick to packing in general, but especially for cold weather, is to refrain from stuffing every warm piece of clothing you have into your luggage.

For starters, you won’t have much space for anything else if trying to fit a handful or heavy sweaters and a winter jacket into your suitcase. Instead, pack thinner layers of clothing, base layers that are insulated, ideally.

Wool is best, but there are many cheaper options out there that will provide great support and quality as well. Check out Patagonia, L.L. Bean, Under Armour Cold Gear and other providers of winter apparel for ideas.

2. Sweat the Heavy Stuff!

For many people, the natural thing to do is to try stuffing all the heavy items—winter shoes/boots; jackets/coats; sweaters—into your checked luggage. You don’t want to wear it on the plane, right? Wrong! Many travel experts agree that wearing your winter gear in transit not only saves more space in your luggage for other items, it will keep you prepared for the bracing weather once you arrive to your final destination.

Your winter gear can also be easily stowed overhead or under your seat while onboard your flight. So instead of packing those “compact” winter boots, wear them. If things heat up, simply take off what you need to and store it!

3. Accessorize!

With the inclement weather, be sure to have the right accessories as well.

Winter socks are thick and cozy, no doubt, but try opting for a thinner, durable pair of socks that will keep your feet just as insulated as those bulky go-tos. The same thing goes for scarves and gloves. Remember: it’s easier to layer and/or store thinner, insulated items than bulky items. You’ll find that flexibility goes a long way when dealing with inclement weather—you can certainly combat both the heat and cold with functional, insulated clothing and accessories a lot more easily than with cumbersome, heavy gear.

Another trick: rather than packing your gloves, scarf and hat in your checked baggage, try storing them in your jacket instead. Again, this will allow for more space in your luggage and keep you prepared for any weather fluctuations will in transit.

So, whether traveling to a new or favorite U.S. destination or stretching your wings a bit more and heading overseas, choosing the right cold weather gear—and packing this gear correctly—will allow your family to focus on the vital task at hand: staying warm and calm while having tons of cold weather fun!

The post 3 Things to Remember when Packing for Cold Weather Destinations appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, but don’t despair.. But you didn’t need me to tell you that, right? With stores inundated with chocolate, hearts and all things red and pink, it’s hard not to think about Valentine’s Day. But if you’ve been caught off-guard, or even if you’re an early bird planning for next year, don’t despair! If it feels like you’re hurtling towards the day with no real plan in store, Omni Hotels & Resorts is here to help you take stock and make it a most memorable day.

With its dedicated properties across North America, Omni Hotels & Resorts has something for every budget and lifestyle. Omni will help you breathe easier, and with its romantic packages and last-minute deals, each Omni property is here to help its guests take their Valentine’s breath away!

Looking for something truly romantic? Available nationwide, Omni is offering the “Retreat to Romance” package this year. With a surplus of lavish amenities, the package includes a pre-call from a concierge to customize your stay; a charming bottle of Chandon sparkling wine; late checkout; a $100 cocktail and cuisine credit that can be used for in-room dining or at on-property outlets;  robes, music and even romantic mood lighting that’s set for you at turndown.

Another unique feature that places the Omni brand apart from its peers is each property’s attention to detail. Just as you’re familiar with hearing that location is everything, with the Omni brand, detail is everything. To this end, not only does each property across the country blend in with the local culture, Omni properties manage their personal touch while still providing guests the luxury and award-winning service that the brand is known for, including four-diamond services, immaculately-appointed rooms and suites, and a host of prizewinning restaurants.

In addition to each Omni property catering to the local culture, for Valentine’s Day, there are property-specific events and offerings available as well. At the Omni Parker House in Boston, for instance, rekindle the magic of Camelot by staying where, in 1953, JFK proposed to Jackie Bouvier (Parker’s Restaurant) and held his bachelor’s party (The Press Room of The Parker House). Want something more tangible? Why not try one of these deals:

• Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa – Palm Springs, California. Enjoy a unique take on California New American cuisine at the resort’s restaurant, bluEmber. The “His & Hers Special” will include Twin Lobster Tails or Cowboy Ribeye Steak, and a dessert trio with a glass of champagne. For additional details, call 760-568-2727.

• Omni Houston Hotel – Houston, Texas. The “Valentine’s NOE Dinner” package includes deluxe accommodations, Chandon, chocolate covered long stem strawberries, and a three-course meal at NOE restaurant. There’s even an option for wine pairing. For additional details, call 713-871-8181.

•  The Omni Homestead Resort – Hot Springs, Virginia. A special Valentine’s Day dinner will be held with menu items that include Sea urchin Bisque and Mushroom Vol au Vent. The resort is also offering activities for couples over the weekend, including couple’s skiing, night skiing, yoga, and dancing. For additional details, call 800-838-1766.

So if you happen to be concerned about your plans, plan to contact Omni Hotels & Resorts right away. And if you think traveling this weekend will be too laborious, remember that Omni Hotels & Resorts are located all across the country, making travel plans that much easier to book and travel destinations that much closer to home.

And with Valentine’s Day falling on a weekend this year, you’ll certainly have time to travel. Instead of trying to salvage some part of a workday, you’ll have a full weekend to take advantage of! What’s more, with the Monday following Valentine’s Day being a national holiday, many have a three-day weekend in store, a rare miracle indeed.

So don’t delay! Book your stay at Omni Hotels & Resorts for Valentine’s Day weekend. Give the gift of stately ambiance with a romantic twist—give the gift of Omni!

For more information, please visit www.omnihotels.com or call 1-800-The-Omni.

The post Give the Gift of Ambience with a Romantic Twist – Give the Gift of Omni! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Still deciding on a last-minute New Year’s resolution? Maybe you just want a more tangible goal under your belt? A marker in the not-to-distant-future that will not only be fun and rewarding to move towards, but one that also involves commitment, compassion and travel? If this sounds like what you are looking for, why not resolve to make 2015 a year of light? That’s right: a remarkable year of light!

The year 2015 has been designated by both UNESCO and the United Nations as The International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies. Throughout the year, festivities and activities which honor the forward thinkers and scientists who paved the road for both light and optical technologies in our daily lives (Albert Einstein) will take place globally.

In essence, it is a year of education, which is why 2015 is a perfect year to combine this education with travel, making a current and historic memory bank for not only you, but for your child as well.

Though the focus on the International Year of Light is primarily to disseminate the purpose and importance of light-based technologies around the globe through education and training, showing its impact and possible scope in the sectors of agriculture, energy, health, and education, The Year of Light can (and should) also play a vital role in reflecting on the purpose and importance of light-based technologies in the travel industry as well.

From computer screens, mainframes and hard drives that book travel flights and spit out tickets and ticket receipts, to the mechanics behind in–flight entertainment and the physics of air travel, from the latest and greatest technology at our fingertips in hotel rooms and resorts, to even the food we eat, how its prepared, and where we might need to go for medical emergencies while abroad, light and light-based technology has a firm hold in the travel industry and in our lives as travelers and parents as well.

To this end, The International Year of Light is not only a wonderful moment in time to spend with your family in appreciation of our global footprint and the vital need for sustainable development not only nationally but internationally as well, it is also a time to start thinking about ways to incorporate The Year of Light into our travel plans.

In keeping with the importance of sustainable development, why not plan a family trip to visit one of the endangered world wonders? The Great Barrier Reef, for instance, has been said to be eroding and at a far greater risk from global warming than previously thought. The Great Wall of China is slowly crumbling, only about one-third of it left for tourists to view. Even the Taj Mahal seems to be losing its luster, with treatments enacted on its closed days to give this Wonder of the World a much-needed facelift. There has even been speculation about the fading Taj Mahal closing its doors altogether and…recently…the possibility of it crumbling due to poor infrastructure.

In any case, by visiting one of the world wonders, you have the chance of ensuring that your children not only read about these places, that they don’t simply recognize these “hot spots” as some passing fact or travel fad from a history book, but that they have a connection to these global environments by having visited these remarkable, yet fated, destinations.

You can even have fun with the idea of light and base a travel experience around this concept alone. Traveling to see the Northern Lights, for instance, would be one way. Or perhaps you might want to consider what it means to travel light? To some, this might mean booking an all-inclusive vacation package, staying at a resort where everything is at your fingertips and you want for nothing. For others, traveling light could mean backpacking or camping out under the stars with your family, staying at a camping site or RV park, traveling without all of the creature comforts that many of us have become used to when traveling.

Regardless of how you choose to travel in 2015, be sure to make it a wonderful year of prosperity and insight. Be sure to make it a wonderful year of light!

Useful Links:

• Lonely Planet’s Illuminating Experiences for 2015 (Article): http://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/the-worlds-most-illuminating-experiences?affil=EMLEDITORIALNEWS_101

The post Illuminating the New Year: The International Year of Light 2015 appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.