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Miami Herald
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
How to Take Your Kids to Cirque du Soleil Disney Springs This Summer – for FREE!
The best-kept entertainment secret at Disney Springs is a spellbinding Cirque du Soleil show, and kids get in free this summer. Now through Labor Day, families can score a free child's ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket for Thursday performances to Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney. The circus arts show combines daring acrobatics, high-energy choreography, live musical performances and Disney animation to tell a touching story about a father and daughter. Our family of five took advantage of the summer deal and loved every minute. It's definitely one of the best things to do in Disney Springs. Here's everything families should know before they go. Inspired by Disney's rich history of animated films and the art of hand-drawn animation, Drawn to Life blends awe-inspiring circus arts with heartfelt storytelling. The show's storyline follows a young girl named Julie, who embarks on a creative journey after finding an incomplete drawing by her late father, a Disney animator. Along the way, she encounters a host of whimsical characters, including the cheerful Mr. Pencil, the gentle Mainamie (a comforting white glove), the mischievous Miss Hésitation and the Doubtovskis (who represent doubt and discarded ideas) and The Animators, inspired by Disney legends like artist Mary Blair. SheBuysTravel Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before showtime to catch the pre-show, which features an interactive art activity onstage that children can participate in. A perfect blend of Disney charm and Cirque du Soleil spectacle, Drawn to Life combines the intricate artistry and heart that both companies are known for. In one section of the performance, we watched in wonder as two pairs of acrobats dressed as forest animals "juggled" their partners using only their feet, while in another, aerial hoop artists soared through the air as fairies in glittering gowns glided across the stage beneath them. My kids (ages 8, 5 and 5) loved the show. Our whole family particularly enjoyed a gravity-defying aerial pas de deux between Julie's parents, complete with large-scale projections of dance scenes from iconic Disney films. Performances of Drawn to Life take place Wednesday through Saturday at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. On Thursdays through Labor Day, families can receive a free child's ticket with each qualifying adult ticket. Tickets are available online or at the Disney Springs box office (mention the "kids free" promotion). There isn't a bad seat in the house; since the theater's semicircle design creates an intimate space, any seat is a good one. Center orchestra seats provide a clear view of performers' expressions, while upper-level seats provide a wonderful vantage point for aerial acts. We chose middle-section seats for the perfect balance. SheBuysTravel Tip: The show is 90 minutes with no intermission; be sure to take any restroom or concession breaks before the performance. One of the perks of catching a show at Disney Springs is the abundance of walkable dining options. Directly across from the venue, House of Blues Orlando serves up Southern-inspired classics in a lively setting, while City Works Eatery and Pour House offers pub fare and an impressive beer list. On our visit, we walked 10 minutes to our favorite waterfront seafood spot in Disney Springs: Paddlefish, located on a reimagined steamboat. The kids dined on shrimp linguine while I savored a flavorful salmon Caesar salad, and we all shared a decadent hot fudge brownie sundae for dessert. SheBuysTravel Tip: Orlando's summer skies are notoriously unpredictable. Pack an umbrella or lightweight poncho in case of a sudden downpour (we learned this the hard way after getting caught in a storm post-show). Since Cirque du Soleil's debut in Montreal in the 1980s, the company has redefined live performance with a distinctive fusion of acrobatics, theater and live music. At Disney Springs, Cirque du Soleil has been a popular presence since 1998, but Drawn to Life elevates the experience with its family-centered storytelling and unmistakable Disney magic. It's a wonderful way to spend a non-park day, and a rare opportunity for Disney fans to see a Cirque du Soleil show created just for them. Don't be surprised if Drawn to Life becomes a new family tradition on future trips to Walt Disney World . Cool Kid Summer Disney World: Amazing Experiences AwaitBest Things to Do in Disney Springs for FamiliesAmazing Eats: Best Restaurants at Disney SpringsBest Disney Springs Restaurants and Their Kids' MenusBest Drinks at Disney Springs The post How to Take Your Kids to Cirque du Soleil Disney Springs This Summer – for FREE! appeared first on She Buys Travel. Copyright © 2025 SheBuysTravel · All Rights Reserved
Miami Herald
23-06-2025
- Miami Herald
Survival Tips for Long-Haul Flights in Economy Seats
I've traveled overseas in Business Class and Economy seats. Business Class is better. No doubt about that. But it's also more expensive. Waaaay more expensive – my direct flight from JFK to Nairobi cost $1200 round trip for Economy and more than $8400 for Business Class. So it was an easy decision for my daughter and me to book the cheap seats and steel ourselves for a grueling 14 hours on the way there and 15 hours on the way home. Here are my tips for surviving a long-haul flight in economy, based on many, many hours doing just that on this flight and others. There are benefits to both. An aisle seat gives you easier access to get up to use the bathroom. It also makes it easier to take a walk and stretch whenever you feel the urge. But, if you plan to pop a sleep aid and conk out for most of the ride, a window seat is the answer. Your seat mates won't need to wake you when they need to get up to use the lavatory or take a walk. Just remember to pull down that window shade when you take off so the sunrise doesn't wake you. Seat Choice Secret If you're traveling with someone, don't choose seats next to one another! Counter-intuitive, I know, but when I travel with my 6-foot 3-inch husband, I book him on the aisle and I take the window seat, leaving the middle seat open. Best case scenario: No one chooses that undesirable seat and we get the extra space to ourselves. Worst case: The plane is full and someone ends up between us. It's usually easy to get that person to switch my window seat for their middle seat and hubby and I cozy up for the flight. Exit Row See the bulkhead section above. Exit rows offer extra legroom, but the tradeoff is fixed armrests and seats that don't recline. Plus, there are age restrictions on exit rows so unless you're traveling with someone age 16 or older, you won't be able to sit there together. It may seem like the right time to pay a (relatively) few extra bucks for that Economy Plus seat, but do your research first. An extra fee seat doesn't necessarily mean extra leg room. On many flights, you're just paying to sit closer to the front, which is great if you have a tight connection but you won't get any extra legroom. Seats with actual extra legroom can cost $200 or more on a long-haul flight. SheBuysTravel Tip: Check outSeatGuru to look at seat maps of the exact aircraft you'll be flying before spending the money for an economy seat upgrade. When flying internationally, you will pay an infant fare for a baby. In very rare cases you may be able to get away with just paying taxes, but we recommend buying a seat. Having a lap child on a long flight is a LOT of work. Buy them a seat, research which carseat you can use on that plane and order a bassinet for the baby to sleep in. You'll thank me later when you were actually able to sleep on the plane! For a long-haul flight that lasts 10 hours or more, you're going to switch from day to night or vice versa. For a shorter long-haul flight, consider booking the overnight (red-eye) flight to maximize your natural sleep cycle. Honestly, I don't really sleep on planes. Too much activity. Too much noise. Too much light. Too many interruptions. Instead, I expect to stay awake the majority of the time, with a few small naps along the way. And I fly in a day early, book a hotel close to the airport with a free shuttle and head straight there the minute I clear customs. I fall into bed and sleep for 12 hours and wake up ready to go. Here are some other options for getting a little shut-eye on the plane: Upgrade to Business Class Yes, I know this isn't a financially feasible solution for everyone. But a business class lie-flat seat is the bomb! On a recent flight home from Paris, Air France emailed me an offer I couldn't refuse: A measly $400 to upgrade to business class. Heck, yes! Use Sleep Aids I tend to be pretty susceptible to drugs. When I need to sleep, I take Benedryl. Works like a charm for me. You may already have a sleep aid in mind. Options include sleeping pills such as Unisom, or a more natural choice such as melatonin (choose one with a 7-hour release to help you stay asleep). Now, the kiddos. Should you give your kids an antihistamine like Benadryl to make them drowsy for the flight? First of all, don't try this without discussing it with your doctor. Second, be aware that it actually makes some kids more hyper rather than sleepy. If your doc says it's OK, give your kiddo a test dose before you fly to see how he responds. SheBuysTravel Tip: Whatever sleep aid you want to use for you or your kids, test it BEFORE you fly. You want to know how your body will react to whatever you take. Set Sleep Triggers Nasreen Stump, a mom of four and frequent traveler, strongly believes in the power of suggestive thought and rituals. Her kids knew it was time to sleep when she handed them a specific nighttime stuffed animal, a special small blanket and a soothing spray of lavender mist on the pillow. Sleep rituals work just as well for adults. It takes 21 days to form a habit. If you mist your face every evening at home with a lavender toner, over time you will associate it with sleep. Bring a travel-size when you fly and — boom — your body knows it's bedtime. Support Your Head on a Long Flight If you're in economy on a full flight, any sleep you get will be in the upright position. Consider buying a SeatSleeper. Yes, they look totally goofy. But they actually are comfortable and prevent head bounce. One of the main reasons people startle awake is because they've jerked their head around. These also work for long road trips. Feeling cheap? I once saw a businessman use his necktie in the same way on the headrest but I promise the actual product is less creepy. Another effective but silly-looking option: Use an actual neck brace. It's not as sexy as a neck pillow, but it will keep your head from flopping around. It's what I use. I just wrap a scarf around it so it's not quite so obvious. Comfort and layers are key here. No tight waistbands. No tight anything, really. In fact, I never even wear a bra on a long-haul flight – this is the time to break out a cammie. And the layers are important to manage air temps. Planes are always too hot or too cold. Layers mean you can take off or add as needed. Wear comfy shoes that are easy to slip on and off. And bring a cheap pair of slippers with rubber soles to wear to the lav. Those floors can be pretty wet and gross after hours of use. You won't want to walk there in your socks. Compression socks are de riguer, no matter your age. Sitting with your legs hanging down for that many hours will lead to swelling in your legs, feet and ankles. The socks will help. And they come in so many cute styles these days! SheBuysTravel Tip: Check out our list of the best travel pants for long flights. My personal favorite: The Athleta Retroplus Straight Leg Pants. They are just as cute as they are comfortable. If you're flying with littles, make sure the outfits are uncomplicated. There is no button struggle like a small airplane bathroom struggle with an 'I need to pee NOW' toddler. Water Bottle It is super important to hydrate on long flights. Flight attendants will come around several times to offer those little cups of water. But you should drink more than a few little cup's worth of water during the flight! Fill your water bottle often while waiting for the plane to take off and make sure everyone's bottles are full before you board. This one is my favorite because it fits in cup holders but also has a great clipping spot on the top so it can be clipped onto something and carried hands-free. If, like me, you're traveling to or from someplace it is not safe to drink the water, splurge on a LifeStraw water bottle to keep yourself safe while you hydrate. Face Mask Especially during flu season, pack a few medical face masks. You're going to be stuck in that metal tube with these folks for a few time zones. Wearing a mask is a good call if you're seated next to a hacking Typhoid Mary when you can't be moved. Foot Hammock This was a recommendation from my friend, Nasreen, a true road warrior. She brings one because she's short and if she reclines her seat, she can't always touch the floor. That means her legs hang down, increasing the swelling in her feet and ankles. I'm not short, but I do like to prop up my feet to give my legs a rest on a long flight. I bought this one before my 14-hour flight to Kenya. I was very happy to have it. I hung it from the seat back tray table and used it off and on throughout the flight. Seatback Organizer This might have been the single best thing I bought for my long flight. Being stuck in a middle seat meant it was really hard to even reach my underseat bag, much less have room to pull it out and search for the thing I needed. This seatback organizer fit over the tray table and came with pockets to stow the stuff I would need regularly – eye mask, ear plugs, charging cords, Kindle, phone, etc. As an added bonus, it covered the tray table so I didn't need to worry about when it was last cleaned. Comfort Items Common recommendations are earplugs, eye sleep masks, travel pillows and blankets. You likely will get a pillow and blanket on the plane, but they will be of much lower quality than the products you would bring – especially those thin little blankets. I always travel with this eye mask and this blanket (I'm usually cold on flights). SheBuysTravel Tip: If you bring your own things, make sure they are washable – you'll want to toss them in the washer the minute you get home to get rid of all of those plane germs. And don't buy black – it just increases the chances you'll leave it in a rental car trunk. Noise-Canceling Headphones A good pair of noise canceling headphones can make for a much improved long-haul flight experience. There are also travel-friendly ones for babies and toddlers to help them sleep on the plane. SheBuysTravel Tip: Many kiddos have ear pain on flights. We swear byEarPlanes and always pack them, along with a few lollipops. Sucking or chewing can also help ear popping. These motion sickness suckers can solve two problems at once. Portable Power Pack and Charging Cords Yes, the seatback likely will have a USB port and there may be a standard plug under your seat. But there is NO GUARANTEE either will work! I can't tell you how many times I have been stymied by a lack of power on a long flight. So come prepared with a really good portable power bank. I never leave home without this one from Anker. SheBuysTravel Tip: Don't forget to pack all of your charging cords in your easily accessible carryon! Glasses Do you usually wear contacts? Not a good idea for long haul flights. Contact lenses draw moisture from your eyes and a 12+ hour flight is a long time to have them in your eyes. Even contact lens manufacturers recommend switching to glasses for long flights. It's also great if your glasses have blue light protection since you'll be staring at screens. Toiletries I packed the toiletries I wanted to be able to easily access in this organizer so all I had to do was pull it out of my bigger under-seat carry-on when I was ready to refresh at the end of the flight. Here's what I packed inside: BrushToothbrush and toothpasteDeodorantMakeup removal wipes Travel tube of lotion Facial mist Eye dropsMakeup Snacks There will be meal service, but it may not come at the time when your stomach wants it. I refused a meal the airline wanted to serve me at 2am in favor of a nap, then woke up hungry four hours later. I always fly with healthy snacks – dried fruit and nuts. White Noise Machine I did not do this, but Nasreen swears by the power of this portable white noise machine. It includes a USB (plug into seat) or can run on battery power and has a headphone jack so you don't irritate anyone else on board. Her kids use it too. She brings these toddler-friendly headphones and a 5-way audio splitter so her kids can all plug into the same sound machine. Editor's Note: This is an updated version of a post written by Nasreen Stump. Packing List for an African Safari in KenyaCapture Kenya: A Magical African Safari Filled with Wildlife Wonder that Also Uplifts Women and GirlsAm I Too Old to Take an African Safari?Serena Hotels: Where to Stay on Your Kenyan SafariTips for Making the Most of a Bucket List African Safari in Kenya The post Survival Tips for Long-Haul Flights in Economy Seats appeared first on She Buys Travel. Copyright © 2025 SheBuysTravel · All Rights Reserved
Miami Herald
21-06-2025
- Miami Herald
Find Your Zen: 10 Unforgettable Wellness Retreats Around the World
Wellness travel is more than a trend-it's a movement. The Global Wellness Institute reports a 16.6% annual rise in wellness tourism spending, as more people seek out trips that restore, relax and recharge. With resorts everywhere jumping on the wellness bandwagon, how do you find your perfect fit? As you develop the vision for your wellness getaway, talk to your family and friends to find out if they've had a wonderful experience at a particular resort. Ask about the rooms, programming, food and vibe. Don't be afraid to ask: To help you on your wellness journey, we've compiled a list of top wellness retreats visited recently by SheBuysTravel writers. Some are in the US. Others are international destinations. Several have extensive wellness programming. But we've also included unique hotels and resorts with to-die-for spas. Pricing is noted based on a general scale, with $ assigned to budget-friendly choices and $$ marking luxury stays; your best resource for package and pricing are the individual resort websites. 1. Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa Miraval Resort and Spa is one of the legacy names in the wellness space, operating resort retreats since 1995. Located about a half-hour drive from Tucson, Miraval is a World of Hyatt property so members can earn and use points for their stay. Focus: Broad range of spa-focused experiences, making Miraval a good choice for group Sonoran desert within easy reach of metro Tucson and Activities: Spa treatments including a Miraval exclusive Nâga massage, a full day of scheduled activities, nearby hiking Luxury rooms and large retreat suites with private plunge Rates include meals and activities excluding individual spa and counseling sessions. $$ 2. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay This Hawaiian luxury resort in Princeville, Kau'i, calls its structured retreats Wellbeing Journeys. Guest goals at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay are an important consideration. Island sightseeing add-ons are offered. Focus: Personalized body/mind treatments provide excellent options for solo travelers or couples looking to support each other's fitness Tropical Hawaiian beachfront with pool, golf and tennis/ Activities: Flotation tank, massive fitness center, luxury spa, plant-based Luxurious rooms and 4-night Wellbeing Journeys include food & beverage credit and multiple spa, therapy and counseling sessions. $$ 3. CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa CIVANA is located just outside of Phoenix in a town called Carefree. Seriously. Guests are encouraged to disconnect; posted "quiet zone" signage is a reminder. Check out complimentary bikes to explore the desert landscape. Focus: Intention setting is encouraged at CIVANA, making this resort an excellent choice for solo travelers seeking time for introspection and Easily accessed from the Phoenix airport, just north of Scottsdale, on a 20-acre desert Activities: 22,000 square-foot spa with hydrotherapy experiences including the only US sanarium sauna, multiple yoga classes and labyrinth, morning and evening rituals, plant-forward Comfortable, minimalist Rates include F&B, tons of daily activities and spa credit. $$ 4. Willka T'ika A stay at this culture-based retreat in Peru's Sacred Valley complements a bucket list trip to Machu Picchu. Immerse yourself in local traditions for a historic, spiritual experience at Willka T'ika. Focus: Vegetarian cuisine, chakra explorations and engaging interactions with the Quechua people make this a wonderful experience for couples or close The high elevation is a consideration at this mountain retreat about a 75-minute drive from the Cusco Activities: Digital detox, ancient healing rituals, meals sourced from property Small 26-room boutique property with single, double and triple garden-view Rates are room only. $ 5. Le Monastère des Augustines Centrally located in the heart of Quebec City, this retreat hotel occupies a 400-year-old monastery building. Treatments at Le Monastere des Augustines are rooted in the historic traditions of the Augustinian sisters who founded the first hospital in New France in 1639. Focus: With opportunities for meditation, introspection and healing, a stay is ideal for those in need of a reset, like caregivers. Location: The building underwent a thoughtful renovation that retains its historic charm. You'll find all of the attractions of this UNESCO World Heritage Site steps from the hotel Activities: Gentle yoga, healing massages, silent breakfast, sleep aids, private consultations Comfortable, contemporary rooms with private baths or historical cells with shared hallway Room rates include breakfast. Wellness options are à la carte. $ 6. Wailea Beach Resort Consider this Maui property if you're a Marriott Bonvoy member so you can earn and use points during your stay. The standout feature at Wailea Beach Resort is the Olakino, adults-only wellness pool. Focus: The Olakino pool offers a sanctuary within a resort experience from 8 am to 4 pm, ideal for a friend The Wailea is a large, luxury beachfront Maui resort with 5 pools, golf and on-site Activities: Book the Olakino wellness pool and enjoy a shaded lounger, cabana or daybed, mini spa treatments, vitality shots, chef-prepped bites served throughout the Over 500 spacious rooms and suites. All have outdoor space. Price: Rates are room only. The Olakino Wellness pool is an available daily add-on. $$ Hacienda Encantada is a serene oasis in Cabo San Lucas, a Mexican resort destination better known for its party atmosphere. It's a great destination for families offering both all-inclusive and European plan pricing. Focus: Destination resort with a world-class Cliffside, with ocean views (no swimmable beach), 40 minutes from the Cabo San Lucas International Activities: Milagro spa, morning All-suite resort with multi-bedroom villas $ 8. Cascada You'll have to go below to discover what makes this Portland, Oregon, hotel unique. An underground network of thermal pools, saunas and soaking tubs at Cascada make it ideal for your next girlfriend getaway. Focus: The spa is the highlight of this just-opened (2025) hotel. Overnight guests are provided with a spa robe and slippers and enjoy complimentary access (spa treatments and classes are extra). Day passes are available if you're not a hotel Cascada is a great place to stay in Portland's Alberta Arts District. It's important to note that it's not in the city's downtown Activities: There are four distinct zones in the spa: The Sanctuary (silent space with 3 vitality pools, a cold plunge, sauna, steam room and ice fountain), The Conservatory (social space with 82-degree pool and day beds), Secret Garden (outdoor thermal pool experience opening summer 2025) and a fitness All rooms are king suites (2-bedroom units are available) with Nightly rates are slightly lower if you exclude the spa, but why would you? $ 9. Salish Lodge and Spa This is another Pacific Northwest hotel ideal for those who find nature's beauty therapeutic. It's an indulgent stay at Salish with luxe lodging and a farm-to-table restaurant on-site. Focus: Ideal for a weekend getaway with a cozy award-winning spa, waterfall pool, destination dining restaurant and access to iconic Snoqualmie Picture the PNW in your favorite movies and TV shows like Twilight and Twin Peaks. That's the setting for Salish Lodge, about 50 miles from Seattle's SeaTac Activities: The Salish spa was named by Conde Nast Travel as one of the "Top 50 Hotel Spas in the United States." If you're visiting with your girlfriends, consider booking the Lower Waterfall pool with cocktail service. Accommodations: Luxe lodge rooms are comfy and spacious. Club-level suites include spa access during your $ 10. Liss Ard Estate If you have the chance to stay at a Relais & Chateaux property in the Irish countryside, do it. The 150-acre estate property is the perfect place to get away from it all. Bring the whole family or a special someone to Liss Ard for this bucket list stay. Focus: Destination resort for those who enjoy the finer things with a la carte wellness Buccolic setting with a lake and wooded trails near West Cork along the Wild Atlantic Activities: Book a private, lakefront sauna. Take long walks through rolling green hills. Sound baths and tea ceremonies are also The hotel's 26 rooms are located in three buildings on the property and feature elegant $ Read More: The Best Spas in Chicago to Rejuvenate and RestoreWhere to Find the Best Spa in BrooklynSpa Resorts in Florida That Will Transform Your Mind, Body and Vacation6 Fabulous Girls Weekend Getaway Ideas The post Find Your Zen: 10 Unforgettable Wellness Retreats Around the World appeared first on She Buys Travel. Copyright © 2025 SheBuysTravel · All Rights Reserved
Miami Herald
17-06-2025
- Miami Herald
How to Spend 2 Days in Nairobi Before Your African Safari and Why You Should
Kenya's a long way from my Atlanta home. I made some smart choices prepping for my first-ever safari, and learned a bunch more in this vast, beautiful, welcoming country. Each tip can open space for deeper experiences and more relationships within communities. Tamarind Tree Hotel was the recommendation of my Capture Kenya safari company and I certainly had no reason to know otherwise. Tamarind is 15 minutes from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and six kilometers from Nairobi National Park if you want to jumpstart viewing wild animals. The incredibly kind and attentive staff were my first experience with Kenyan hospitality and generosity. Notice the welcome from every single soul; this will continue everywhere, every day. My room had three twin beds, each with access to plug-ins for charging devices (although one took some sleuthing to find since it was behind the stack of pillows. SheBuysTravel Tip: This whole story is "tips" but notice the Tamarind gift shop. Art in Kenya tends to repeat itself, so introduce yourself to intricate beaded earrings, necklaces and bracelets, to carvings of many animals, to soft fabrics with iconic African scenes and to ubiquitous T-shirts with images of the Big Five animals. Memorize them: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino. Food's lovely at the Tamarind – lavish breakfast buffet with tamarind juice to try! Patio seating by the pool and flowering trees and shrubs suited me best. Portions seemed enormous from lunch and dinner menus so consider sharing. Get started on beetroot salad here; it'll be on every menu the rest of the trip, always in a new design or shape. Gentle hands-on healing or deep tissue massage: affordable and available in Kenya hotels. There were three of us traveling together – one who likes a deep tissue massage; one who likes a gentle massage and me, who falls somewhere in the middle. All three of us agreed: Our massages at the Tamarind Tree Hotel with Evelyn (who also likes being called Eve) can be called the best ever. Proof? My arthritis-swollen left knee returned to near normal size and my stiff neck and tight hips from that long flight eased considerably. Given the exchange rate with US dollars, I spent $65 for 60 minutes of healing, and pure bliss. Visiting the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi definitely opens deeper feelings when encountering elephants on the game drives. Spend a few hours here before heading into Kenya's vast national parks. Baby elephants whose mamas have died are brought to Sheldrick and, with near-constant attention, they can successfully return to the wild in an astonishing five years! Tsavo is the name of Kenya's national park where returns take place, if that's something to consider experiencing. Poaching is a subject much discussed in Africa, and so is the relationship with wild animals and village families trying to raise cows, goats and sheep-and gardens. Conversations at Sheldrick with elephant protectors and nurturers gave me perspective to then take to the game drives and indigenous communities. Like "elephants know when someone has mistreated an animal in the past" or "elephants speak to one another in a frequency humans don't hear.' Without that teaching, I would have wondered about the deep silence on game drives watching families of elephants walking and munching. SheBuysTravel Tip: Sheldrick offers adoption opportunities–$50 annually to support a baby elephant, complete with monthly newsletter updates. Rhinoceros adoptions also become available as safaris unfold. So do tuition payments and uniforms for children to go to school! Game drive giraffe encounters may be close enough to see their eyeballs, but mostly they're about admiring those long lanky legs and graceful stride off in the distance. Get close in Nairobi's Giraffe Centre. Feel the long gentle tongue by feeding little pellets to the giraffe who wander close to the fenced boardwalk. And learn a bit about the Rothschild, Maasai and Reticulated giraffe species found in Kenya. AFEW is the organization behind this learning center-the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. Packing List for an African Safari in KenyaTips for Making the Most of a Bucket List African Safari in KenyaCapture Kenya: A Magical African Safari Filled with Wildlife Wonder that Also Uplifts Women and GirlsThe 5 'Fives' of Africa – the Big, Ugly, Feathered, Special and Small Animals You'll See in Kenya The post How to Spend 2 Days in Nairobi Before Your African Safari and Why You Should appeared first on She Buys Travel. Copyright © 2025 SheBuysTravel · All Rights Reserved
Miami Herald
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Family Fun for Your Denver Weekend
Sometimes a long weekend suffices for a quick escape, especially given limited PTO, school days and generally busy modern lifestyles that make weeklong vacations hard to squeeze in. If you're looking for a weekend away with the family, this perfect long weekend itinerary in Denver will inspire your family fun. Portions of this trip were hosted. Let us inspire your travels! Sign up for our newsletter now. Why Here: Casa Bonita, a Denver mainstay since the 1970s, featured kitschy decor, cliff divers and somewhat terrible Mexican food. South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker purchased the restaurant and now offer the same nostalgia with a safer, cleaner, tastier venue. What Not to Miss: Although hidden activities abound, the cliff divers really steal the limelight with dive intervals every 20 minutes. So rest easy, eat your burrito, interact with the restaurant characters and catch a show when you can. Where to Eat: Obviously, you've come for some food but the specialty drinks stand out: indulge in at least one! Money Matters: Our group of four (two adults, two kids) spent right around $200 on lunch. We each had a specialty drink and an entree. The sopapillas come free with every reservation! While somewhat expensive for mediocre Mexican food, you pay for dinner and a show when it all shakes out. The arcade and some activities incur a small upcharge. SheBuysTravel Tip: Make reservations 2-4 months in advance – you can only dine here if you have a reservation. Why Here: The Downtown Aquarium, one of several nationwide managed by Landry's (of Rainforest Cafe, Bubba Gump Shrimp, and several Walt Disney Resort restaurants fame), drew us in with the dive/snorkel program. We likely would skip this stop without the extra in-water program. What Not to Miss: You can actually book snorkeling and scuba diving adventures (which we did) through a local dive shop, A-1 Scuba. In water guides make interacting with cow nose stingrays, guitar fish, jacks and more super chill and fun. All gear is provided and showers are on-site. Where to Eat: Aquarium Restaurant, with a fantastic ambiance and resembling a themed Applebee's in quality, quantity and taste. The drinks really stood out – I recommend the Shark Bite. Quite a juxtaposition: separately, all the ingredients presented nothing special, but the whole experience made for quite a good time. Money Matters: Two snorkelers and two scuba divers cost $700. The price included our aquarium visit and a souvenir t-shirt. The behind-the-scenes scuba and snorkel experience really elevated our aquarium visit. Without this elevated experience, the restaurant might have just been a mediocre, crowded itinerary stop. At the on-site restaurant, drinks, meals, and dessert for four totaled around $250. SheBuysTravel Tip: The in-water programs book fast. Make a reservation a few weeks in advance, at least. You have to do so separately from the aquarium, through the scuba shop. Anyone not in the water will need to purchase admission to the aquarium. The restaurant didn't prove terribly hard to secure reservations, but to do so helps plan for a successful day! Why Here: Meow Wolf boasts several locations throughout the USA, including this one, part art exhibit, part amusement venue. It ranks among those life experiences demanding firsthand experience. Featuring four levels, Convergence Station transports you through areas recalling a frozen glittery land, bright pizzascapes reminiscent of 1990s-era Nickelodeon illustrations, spots feeling intergalactic, and even a laundromat. Sounds accompany the visual experience. Our ten-year-old loved the experience most of all. What not to Miss: Pinpointing what we missed is difficult. During your briefing, you hear that 'no correct way exists to explore' and that 'if you feel lost, you're doing it right.' I would say, you do need to interact by opening doors, pushing buttons, and really immersing yourself in the fun. Where to eat: While a lounge and cafe exist, we opted to eat before visiting Meow Wolf, so we cannot comment much on the food situation. However, after exploring the mind-blowing exhibits and walking through the lounge on our way out, I actually mistook a display of half-eaten food and drink on an abandoned table for art! Money Matters: Reserve an entry time online. For the four of us, ticket prices would have totaled around $200 for an afternoon of adventures in art. Parking costs $10 with plenty of space in a surface lot. SheBuysTravel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes – you'll "feel" the concrete floors as you walk and try to find all the exhibits' nooks and crannies. Why here: Fun for a special dinner or date night, sharing tapas with a small group works perfectly at Linger. This popular restaurant, occupying an old mortuary building, has no kids menu, but the kids enjoyed some "eating adventures" while trying menu items including wagyu sliders and bison kebabs. We ordered several plates and shared them around the table. What not to Miss: The bao bun trio remains my favorite go-to menu item at this spot. A good action plan involves everyone ordering something different and then just sharing bites. The mimosas also delight for a Sunday brunch. You really can't find bad food. Where to eat: You're here to savor Denver's flavors. Maybe let them linger a while… Our server mentioned that the restaurant occupies the part of the building where the hearses parked – which makes sense considering the large garage door-style windows on one wall. Whether seated upstairs or downstairs, no bad spot exists. Money Matters: This dining experience won't break the bank with on-average $20 entrees. Special menus appear at times, and expensive options, like any menu, run $40-$50. Our party of four ate dinner for about $100. SheBuysTravel Tip: You MUST make a reservation if you don't want to stand in the street waiting for an hour. A crowd-pleasing small-batch ice cream joint operates on the street level next door to Linger for a little dessert, if you have any room at all! Why here: The VīB in Denver's artsy River North (RiNo) district offered a super convenient basecamp for our long weekend. Centrally located, about 20 minutes from all the adventures we had planned, and with easy access to the Colorado Rockies games. What Not to Miss: Special events like Trivia and Bingo occur on the rooftop patio (or inside when chilly) – check for information on these free and well-attended events. The energy suits any crowd with a vibe all its own. Where to eat: The food on-site worked perfectly for starting our day and provided a fun spot to chill in the evenings. The hotel features a breakfast and coffee shop for mornings and McDevitt Taco Supply, a cool rooftop patio bar/restaurant. Money Matters: A night here costs around $150-265 depending on season and day of the week. The taco restaurant proves affordable, and you will save in the end by its central location for rideshare costs or even driving and time. SheBuysTravel Tip: Streetside parking exists FREE and limited. About eight coveted parking spots are available; otherwise, easy ramp parking exists. Coors Field: Home of the Colorado Rockies. Catch a tour or see a game during baseball season. I recommend the lobster roll – a bold choice in a landlocked American ballpark, but you won't regret it!Denver Zoo: Lots of exhibits, many newly renovated, and for grown-ups – stands selling cold beers in eco-friendly Big Blue Bear: Near Denver's Convention Center in the heart of downtown. Great photo op but with tricky parking. We made a quick run to the giant azure oso, snapped our selfies, and ran back to the car. You may not want to take my advice on repeating this operation!One Mile High step: At 5,280 feet above sea level, the step on the Denver Courthouse. Great photo op also in downtown. While we were there, one of the biggest protests in Colorado history was taking place, so we didn't go for the picture. Rocky Mountain National Park: 90-minute drive northwest of Denver. Make sure to check the weather, so you're able to get as far up into the mountainous landscape as you can. In 2025, prepare for the usual locations to be unstaffed or have some services Tacos and elote near the airport on Tower Road. I can confirm the delicious nature makes this a perfect stop before flying out. Fun Day Trips From Denver for Epic Colorado AdventuresFun Things to Do in Downtown Denver with KidsFree Things to Do in Denver in WinterIconic Colorado Road Trips for Families The post Family Fun for Your Denver Weekend appeared first on She Buys Travel. Copyright © 2025 SheBuysTravel · All Rights Reserved
