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Holiday Checklist for Dads: What to Do Before Going on A Family Vacation to Majorca

January 17, 2023 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Majorca

Do you remember waking up on the first day of your holiday to an over-prepared Dad barking out orders as your family prepared to leave the house? From using the bathroom scales to weigh each suitcase about twenty times before being satisfied, it was under the weight limit to arriving at the airport a good eight hours before the flight was scheduled – all of us have an iconic story about our dads and holidays.

Vacations to Majorca are meant to be a relaxing break away from the stresses of life. Yet, they can quickly become a stress-fest, especially when you add young children to the occasion, which we don’t understand until we become parents ourselves.

From planning the holiday itinerary to arranging transport to and from the airport, there are many things for dads to consider before heading off on a family vacation to Majorca or anywhere else! So that you can avoid becoming that dad, we’ve created this holiday checklist so that you don’t forget anything, including what to pack, transport arrangements, checking the Majorca weather forecast, etc. – keep reading to find out more.

Check The Majorca Weather Forecast

When you’re going on holiday, it can be challenging to remember anything over all the excitement of going abroad. Yet, the Majorca weather forecast is the most significant thing to keep your eye on before and during your holiday. Especially when you’re going abroad, checking the weather forecast is essential, as the weather can drastically impact your holiday itinerary.

Using reliable weather sources is essential so that your trip goes smoothly, and there are many benefits to doing so, which we list below:

It helps you determine which items of clothing to pack.
It can influence the date you intend to travel.
It helps you plan your holiday itinerary.
It gives you more accurate predictions of severe weather conditions like tornados, earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions, etc.

Start reaping the benefits of checking the Majorca weather forecast using reputable sources like World Weather Online. As well as helping you get an idea of the Majorca weather, their website can give you valuable information about the country, from what clothing to bring, the best month to travel, the usual climate, and other information. Consider using their site the next time you travel for weather updates and see how the data could make your trip smoother.

Don’t Sort Out Your Travel Money At The Airport

Another essential you should take care of before going on holiday to Majorca is changing your travel money rather than leaving it until the last minute at the airport. The airport has notoriously higher exchange rates, and some even have hidden extra costs, so it can cost you more to change your money at the airport.

Instead, take your savings to a local currency conversion place, or use currency converter apps,

as this will ensure that you get more bang for your buck. Additionally, if you’re planning on using your credit or debit card while you’re away, it would be best to inform your bank that you’re going to Majorca.

Failure to inform your bank that you’ve left the country can lead to them putting a block on your account, which can only be removed by you phoning them up and proving that it was you trying to withdraw from your account. This can be annoying in your home country, let alone when you’re abroad, so don’t forget to let them know!

Arrange A Pet-Sitter (If You Need One!)

While juggling checking the dates on passports, looking at the entry requirements for Majorca, organising transport, etc., it can be easy to forget about the tiniest things, even if they’re right in front of you (or below your knee!).

Providing that you have a furry companion in your household, one of the first things you should take care of is what will happen to them while you and your family are off sunning yourselves in the Majorca sun.

The last thing you want to do is leave it until the last minute and discover that no kennel can take them or that the friend or family member who usually looks after them is out of town that particular weekend. So, give yourself the peace of mind of knowing that your pet will be fine while you’re away and contact a pet sitter or kennel at the first instance.

Suppose you decide to go down the kennel route. In that case, some establishments have specific requirements to meet and paperwork to fill out and contacting them early can give you a head start on sorting it instead of having the stress of leaving it until the last minute. Additionally, if you ask a friend or family member to keep an eye on them, it gives them a heads-up.

Organise How You’re Getting To And From The Airport

Everyone who has ever been abroad before knows the familiar rush to get to the airport on the morning of your flight and the hurry to get back home as soon as you land. So, ensure that this is made less stressful by organising how you’re getting to and from the airport on the day you arrive in Majorca and the day you touchdown back home.

Will you be driving yourself to and from the airport and getting a taxi while in Majorca? Or will you ask a family member or friend for a lift? Or will you use a ride-share company to get you to and from your destination? Either way, being prepared will save you much money and time and allow you to plan in advance for hold-ups like accidents, traffic jams, etc.

Alternatively, if you’d like a completely stress-free travel experience, you could consider staying in a hotel close to the airport the night before you fly. Depending on where you fly from, you can find various hotels close to Birmingham airport and other amenities, which saves you having to drive on the day, ask a loved one for a favour, or spend money on a taxi.

3 Winter Getaway Ideas

November 15, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Are you planning to get away this winter, but are not sure yet what to do? Whether you’re undecided on what to do this winter or just haven’t found the time to decide yet, here are a few ideas to get you started.

A Warm Destination

Looking to escape the cold season? Many people prefer to leave snow and slush behind and head somewhere warm to escape from the winter weather. Some just prefer the beach over a winter wonderland. If you’re looking to go somewhere sunny and warm this winter, there are some great options.

There are many warm destinations that you can visit during the winter. Some of the most popular warm destinations include Florida, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. In Europe, people often visit Tenerife or Cyprus during the winter months. Since these locations are warm year-round, you can visit them any time of the year. Some other locations that are warm from December to February are Australia and South Africa.

A Winter Adventure

There are many ski resorts around the world where you can go skiing, snowboarding, or both. In Europe, the most popular countries to go skiing and snowboarding are France, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria. However, they are available worldwide, from Australia to the United Kingdom. You can find all about skiing destinations from Piste Pro.

If you’re not a fan of winter sports, you can also experience winter adventure in other ways such as ice climbing or snowshoeing. Even those who aren’t interested in these activities will appreciate the gorgeous scenery. There are places throughout the world that look like a true winter paradise. You can choose to stay in a cosy cabin in the wilderness or stay in a luxury resort in the mountains. There are resorts that offer various activities, accommodations, and guided tours.

No matter what you choose to do, it will be an adventure you won’t forget.

Staying in and Relaxing

You may also want to consider just staying in and relaxing or visiting a local resort. Many resorts offer accommodations and activities during the winter months that can be great for a family or a fun getaway. You can go ice skating, see a holiday show, visit the local winery, and much more.

If you would rather just relax for a few days, that is a good option as well. Relaxing at home and spending time with loved ones is often underrated! Although it is not technically a getaway, this tip certainly deserves consideration.

If You Want to Go on a Getaway

If you have decided not to stay in this year, there are a few things to do before you set off. Start by figuring out how much money you can spend on your winter vacation and then map out some ideas for places you’d like to visit. You might want to make a list of things you want to do while on vacation or research some of the top attractions in the area that you might want to visit while you’re there. If you do not like to find things to do when you arrive, you might also want to plan a few activities ahead of time so you have an idea about what you will be doing once you arrive.

Once you decide what type of getaway you want, the next step is to book your flight or train ticket if you haven’t already done so and book your hotel reservations. If you’ll be renting a car when you get to your destination, be sure to make those arrangements as well. Finally, you’ll need to make sure you have all of your travel documents in order (such as your passport) and any necessary immunizations before you go.

How to Keep Your Family Safe While On the Road

November 10, 2022 by dadofdivas 1 Comment

Photo credit: Image by ????????? ??????? from Pixabay

Whether you’re planning to take your family on a road trip or to the supermarket for a quick grocery run, road safety should always be a priority. Here are a few safety measures to help keep your loved ones safe while on the road.

Ensure your vehicle’s condition

A well-maintained car is vital to securing your family’s road safety. Have your vehicle regularly serviced by a professional so they can perform the necessary safety maintenance procedures such as:

Inspecting your vehicle’s oil levels
Checking the brakes’ condition
Examining your tires
Topping off essential fluids
Assessing your vehicle’s lights
Testing the battery

Buckle up properly

No matter how skilled you are as a driver, vehicular accidents are still possibilities, so everyone must be buckled up properly. Make sure your kids are in age-appropriate and federally-approved car seats. Your child’s age, weight, and developmental needs will dictate the type of car safety seat they require, so purchasing the right one is essential. If your child is big enough to use a booster seat, you can choose from different color booster seats made by reputable brands. If you already have an existing car seat, check if it’s properly installed and its expiration date, as most seats expire six years after their manufacture date.

Carry an emergency roadside kit

Since roadside emergencies can occur anytime, you must always have a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. According to the National Safety Council, your supply kit should include jumper cables, a flashlight, a compass, reflective triangles, a properly inflated spare tire, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, duct tape, a tool kit, a car charger for your cell phone, and nonperishable high-energy food. You should also have protective gear according to your driving location’s weather, climate, and season.

Take driving breaks often

If you’re driving long-distance, taking frequent breaks is essential. Schedule breaks every two to three hours so you can stretch your legs and get some fresh air. Stopping often can also help your children burn off their unused energy, as boredom can cause them to distract or cause unnecessary commotion while you’re behind the wheel. If traveling with another adult, remember to take turns driving so that you’re both alert and well-rested.

Drive proactively

While it is impossible to control everything on the road, driving proactively can significantly reduce the chances of vehicular accidents and roadside emergencies. Try to anticipate what other drivers might do, and pay attention to your surroundings. Keep your emotions in check and stay away from aggressive drivers. Eliminate all distractions and always adhere to traffic rules and regulations.

Get plenty of sleep

Fatigue can significantly influence your driving competency, so make it a point to get enough rest before a long journey. Aim to get at least six to eight hours of quality sleep and notify your family if you’re too tired to drive. Remember that your reaction time tends to be slower when you’re tired, causing you to make poor driving choices and compromise the safety of your loved ones.

Road safety goes beyond driving safely. Remember to follow these tips so you can drive confidently, no matter the circumstances.

Tips To Help You Enjoy A City Break With A Little Less Stress

November 4, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Do you love the idea of exploring a city at your leisure, but have a distinct experience of how stressful it can be to navigate a new space on your own? We have all been there and, in most cases, all you need is a little extra preparation and a good idea of the services that the city might have available to you. These tips can be especially helpful for those who are bringing the family with them, too, so keep that in mind.

Link – Pixabay License

Make sure that you budget for the trip

It’s all too easy to run out of money during a city break if you haven’t thoroughly budgeted for every angle of it. Aside from your accommodation and transportation, you have to consider necessities such as eating, toiletries, and getting around the city. Budgeting for a city break should ensure that all of the money necessary for essentials is set aside for them, while still freeing up some spending money to get around to enjoy the sights that you’re there to see in the first place. As such, do your research on typical costs of things in the city beforehand to make sure that you don’t run out too quickly.

Don’t lug around your baggage

There might be a time when you’re in the city but you haven’t fully checked into your accommodation yet or you might just be passing through one city, spending a few hours there until you’re headed to your next destination. Pulling around your luggage can not only be very inconvenient, but it can be a relatively easy way to put your possessions at first of being stolen, too. Take the time to find luggage storage options ahead of time. You can keep your luggage in a secure spot for hours until you need to pick it up again, allowing you to explore a lot more freely.

See what kind of travel passes are available

Aside from getting to the city, getting around the city can be something of a hassle. There are a lot of cities that aren’t very walkable after all. You can hire a car, but in many cases, the traffic can be even worse than walking from A to B. As such, you should take a look at what kind of travel passes you can use. Usually, a single purchase can cover all of your public transportation needs for a given period of time, so you don’t have to worry about running out of money to get around the city.

A sightseeing pass might help you see more, too

Sometimes bundled in with a travel pass, sometimes a wholly separate thing, there are also sightseeing passes that you can purchase. These passes can give you admission to many of the city’s premium paid attractions. Usually, this can help offer savings compared to what you would be paying if you went to each of those attractions individually. It’s a good idea to put together an idea of what you want to see and to see which sightseeing passes cover most of the big ones. You can then find what else is available on them and see if you’d like to fit them into the schedule, too.

Don’t get too worried about sticking to a plan

Having an itinerary can help you get a good idea of what you want to see and do in the city. However, trying to stick to too rigid a plan can often make things a lot more stressful. Keep plans loose, try to keep your schedule as open as possible. You can’t always account for queue times, traffic, or other delays that might otherwise push those plans back, causing stress.

Use apps to help you navigate the city

If you’re in a new place, finding your way around can become a bit of a hassle. Finding whichever attraction, form of transport, eatery, or whatever else you’re looking for can become a mammoth task. Do your research on the city you’re visiting and see if they have their own visitor’s app that can make it a lot easier for you to figure out how to navigate. A GPS app on your phone can be helpful, too, but sometimes navigating a city can be more confusing than a map alone can help with.

With the help of the tips above, you should hopefully be able to deal with a lot less stress than a city break usually entails. The next time you’re planning to make one, keep these pointers in mind as best you can.

Why Scotland Is The Perfect Travel Destination

November 2, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Is there such a thing as the perfect travel destination? What does that include? Well, if there is, Scotland comes pretty close. No matter what it is you could want, Scotland has it on offer. There’s no end to the breathtaking views, interesting architecture, new foods to try, and activities to take part in – so it’s a good destination for people of all interests and backgrounds.

If you’re looking for a destination to visit with your family, there are plenty of ideas as far as family holidays in Scotland go. It’s not all sightseeing, there are many attractions you could visit to pack your vacation full of fun.

Miles and miles of beautiful scenery

If there’s one thing that Scotland has to offer you that no other country does, it’s the Highlands. Sure, there are almost similar views that can be seen elsewhere, but the Highlands has everything you could want to see. They stretch for miles upon miles across most of Scotland and can’t be missed while you’re there, but they open up your vacation for so many activities. Mainly, you won’t want to miss the chance to give photography a chance, because there are going to be a lot of picturesque locations for you to come across.

Exciting cities to explore

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital has enough experience to fill out your whole vacation. You could start your journey by exploring Edinburgh Castle; a very popular tourist attraction. Not only is it a wonderful piece of history to check out, but it also overlooks the whole city, so it’s a great place to either start or end your journey. You can have a guide show you around, or take an audio tour – which is available to you in eight different languages, perfect for anyone who wants to visit Scotland.

Once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience

Hiking isn’t for everyone, but it’s something that you’ll want to try out if you ever pay Scotland a visit. The Highlands has everything you could want to see. Mountains, lochs, castles, ruins – a lot of country and hills, too. If you don’t spend at least a day getting out there and taking in your surroundings, you would be making a huge mistake. There’s so much nature to surround yourself with, and you’ll never forget the sights you see on the day of your hike. Scotland also has thousands of different hiking trails, so you’ve got a good chance to be the only person on your trail!

Plenty of new food and culture to try

The food and the culture should always be something you aim to experience while you’re visiting any destination. Even if you feel like you wouldn’t like it – you can’t know until you’ve tried it. It’s not going to be easy to get the chance to try it again, especially if you don’t plan on returning to Scotland in the future. There’s so much to do, and if there’s ever been a time to leave your comfort zone, it’s while you’re abroad.

The Top 7 Florida Resorts for Outdoor Lovers

September 30, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

The great outdoors provides plenty of opportunities to get your body moving, your mind working, and your blood pumping. If you are planning an upcoming vacation to Florida, you might want to stay in accommodation that offers fun activities that will get your heart racing and adrenaline running.

There is no reason to accept a boring hotel with limited activities in the Sunshine State. Learn about the top seven Florida resorts for outdoor lovers.

Source: Instagram, posted on May 10th, 2022, Westgate Ranch’s official profile.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo – River Ranch

You will feel more in love with rural America after a visit to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. The luxe dude ranch is jammed with outdoor activities to suit every guest, from pony rides and mini golf to horseback riding and guided hunts.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is bursting with outdoor activities to beat boredom, challenge your skills, and help you maximize every second in a beautiful backdrop. An hour from South Orlando, you will go back in time to the rustic Old West during your stay while enjoying various luxurious modern amenities.

For example, the luxe Conestoga Wagon camping accommodation is inspired by the 18^th-century wagon design used to transfer cargo by oxen or horse. Yet, you can enjoy many comforts of home once you step inside, such as air conditioning and heating, a full bathroom with a walk-in shower, electrical outlets, premium linens, and countertop appliances.

Of course, as an outdoor lover, you will likely want to spend much of your stay outdoors, and you will not be disappointed at this stunning resort. Try the following activities for a fun-filled break:

Airboat rides
Horseback riding
Fishing
Archery
Tennis
Rock climbing
Swamp buggy rides
A trap and skeet range

Also, step out of your glamping tent or wagon to watch the Saturday Night Rodeo at the 1,200-seat Rodeo Arena. You might even want to tackle the skill for yourself on a mechanical bull at the resort.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 13th, 2022, Steinhatchee Landing’s official profile.

Steinhatchee Landing Resort – Steinhatchee

Steinhatchee Landing Resort has charming one- to three-bedroom cottages, providing a private base for fun outdoor pursuits, such as scuba diving, fly-fishing, and canoeing.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life at Steinhatchee Landing Resort. This hidden gem provides one- to three-bedroom cottages and is a short distance from the Gulf of Mexico and Steinhatchee River converge.

Embrace many affordable recreational activities at the enchanting resort, such as scuba diving in Florida Springs, kayaking along the Steinhatchee River, or exploring Gulf Coast State Parks.

Anglers will never want to leave charming Steinhatchee, as it is home to shallow grass flats and an untouched shoreline, providing a safe habitat for many saltwater fish. Also, if you stay at Steinhatchee Landing Resort during summer, you can enjoy some of the best scalloping on the planet along the river.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 23rd, 2022, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach’s official profile.

Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort – Hollywood, Florida

Sunny days don’t get much better than riding waves on a surf simulator, paddleboarding outdoors, or cycling along Hollywood Beach Boardwalk. Create fond memories at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, which offers stylish suites, unique dining experiences, and endless water fun.

If your heart is set on a beachfront break with your loved ones, you will likely remember a vacation at the laidback Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. The little slice of paradise in Hollywood, Florida, exudes family-friendly fun, offering sports activities, nature tours, and unmissable local festivals.

Water fun is a given at this visually stunning resort, as it features two pools, a surf simulator, and canals. Also, you can rent a paddleboard from its 5 O’clock Somewhere Bar & Grill to explore the calming waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, which is across the road.

Those looking for a fun experience on land can cycle, run, or rollerblade up and down the scenic Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, or spend a sunny weekend exploring the popular Yellow Green Farmers’ Market.

Also, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort is a superb pick for those who want to explore many nearby parks between riding waves and lounging in the sunshine, as the resort is a short walk from Charnow Park, West Lake Park, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Source: Instagram, posted on June 29th, 2022, Hawks Cay Resort’s official profile.

Hawks Cay Resort – Duck Key

You would struggle to find much better than Hawks Cay Resort for South Florida fun. It will be hard to forget swimming with dolphins in the sunshine, enjoying a scenic view while kiteboarding, or fishing on a paddleboard.

Hawks Cay Resort is a tropical paradise in South Florida, offering beautiful resort rooms and cottages to meet many guests’ needs and tastes. Located on Duck Key, a small, secluded island, you and your loved ones can enjoy many outdoor activities along the aquamarine waters, including kiteboarding, paddleboard fishing, kayaking, and swimming with dolphins. The fun isn’t over once you are back on dry land, as you can play tennis on one of many courts or cycle around the resort at your leisure.

Non-stop activities will cause you to build up quite an appetite throughout the day. Satisfy your cravings by visiting one of the six restaurants available at Hawks Cay Resort, such as Sixty-One Prime, Angler and Ale, and Coral Grill.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 22nd, 2022, Cheeca Lodge & Spa’s official profile.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa – Islamorada

Spend every day of your vacation having fun outdoors during a stay at the 214-room Cheeca Lodge & Spa. Pack many fun-filled activities into your itinerary, such as parasailing, fishing, Hobie cat sailing, or guided jet ski tours.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa is a serene oasis in relaxing Islamorada, offering a pretty backdrop of turquoise water and towering palm trees with a cooling breeze. The accommodations are just as magnificent, as it is home to 214 elegant rooms and suites for a luxurious getaway.

Despite its soothing environment, it is a must-pick for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to get their muscles pumping and body moving. When not dining at its first-class restaurants, you can play a round of golf on the 9-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed course, cycle around the resort, or go on a snorkeling tour.

Cheeca Lodge is also based in the sportfishing capital of the world, as you can charter a boat during your stay to catch 500 fish species or cast a line from the resort’s 525-foot pier.

Source: Instagram, posted on July 12th, 2022, South Seas Island Resort’s official profile.

South Seas Island Resort – Captiva Island

Fun and excitement are included in your stay at South Seas Island Resort. You can select from countless outdoor activities at the 330-acre retreat on Captiva Island, such as boating, parasailing, kayaking, and more.

Families, friends, or couples who adore the outdoors will want to return to South Seas Island Resort time and again. The secluded retreat and wildlife nature preserve is home to two-and-a-half miles of white sand beaches on the Florida Gulf Coast.

The elevated rooms, suites, and villas provide a luxury, comfortable environment to help you and your loved ones recover from a busy day of activities at the resort. You will not know where to start when it comes to outdoor pursuits, as you can go:

Banana boating
Wave running
Parasailing
Swimming with turtles or dolphins
Kayaking
Fishing

After you have dried off from the water fun, you can play tennis or pickleball on one of seven courts, go shelling along the beach or enjoy a sunset serenade cruise to watch a Gulf of Mexico sunset.

Source: Instagram, posted on April 10th, 2022, Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant’s official profile.

Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant – Pineland

Passionate paddleboarders, kayakers, and anglers will want to move to Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant in Pineland. Providing a mix of old and new Florida, you will remember every second of your stay at this gorgeous retreat.

Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant in Pineland, South Florida, has it all: history, luxury, and recreation. You will spend every night of your stay in the 1926 lodge, which blends old Florida charm with modern comfort and fun.

Wake up every morning of your vacation in a boathouse or cottage filled with character, providing more privacy and comfort than nearby hotel rooms. After making breakfast and enjoying a hot shower, you can enjoy select from many exciting activities throughout your stay. For example, you will never regret fishing or boating along the backwaters of Pine Island Sound, which is known for spotted sea trout, snook, and redfish. It is an angler’s dream vacation.

Passionate kayakers and paddleboards will be glad they made the journey to the resort, too. You could happily spend every waking moment of your vacation on The Great Calusa Blueway, as it connects 200 miles of inland tributaries with inlets and wetlands. It is an experience you will never forget.

Taking a Trip Back in History on the SS Badger

October 6, 2021 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Over the past weekend, I took a trip to Manitowoc, Wisconsin to celebrate the wedding of a close friend. Manitowoc, Wisconsin is a town I have visited a number of years ago, but it is a bit of a hike to get there when coming from my hometown. That being said I was looking for a way that I could bring my family over to Manitowoc without having to deal with the stress of driving through Chicago, which is the normal way I would have to travel. Typically from home, it would take me about 8 hours to drive around the lake through Chicago, Illinois. As I examined new ways to travel, I would either have to travel through the Upper Peninsula and it would take about 10-12 hours, or another option was traveling on the S.S. Badger, a car ferry that travels directly into Manitowoc, Wisconsin from Ludington, Michigan. Looking into the options, I chose to take my family across Lake Michigan on the S.S. Badger.

The S.S. Badger offers the largest cross-lake passenger service on the Great Lakes and an authentic steamship experience. The relaxing four-hour, 60-mile cruise takes passengers, autos, RVs, tour buses, motorcycles, bicycles, and commercial trucks across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

The S.S. Badger is the last coal-fired passenger steamship in operation in the United States. She has provided a fun, reliable and affordable shortcut across beautiful Lake Michigan for more than 60 years and has transported millions of passengers since her re-birth in 1992. In 2016 she received the nation’s highest historic honor when the Department of Interior officially designated the Badger as a National Historic Landmark. (Learn more about the history of the S.S. Badger).

Some interesting facts about the S.S. Badger

Length: 410 feet, 6 inches
Width: 59 feet, 6 inches
Height: 106 feet, 9 inches (7 stories)
Weight: 6650 tons displaced

Now you might be wondering, what is there to do on a 4 hour car ferry ride. Well….. to be honest, a ton! There is a ton going on during this voyage including:

ON BOARD

Famous Badger Bingo
Shopping in the “Boatique”
Staterooms
Enhanced Wi-Fi
Free Movies
Lounging
Open Deck for Walking and Fresh Air
Board Games
Museum
Quiet Areas

KID’S ACTIVITIES

Scavenger Hunt
Coloring Contest
Movie Theatre

DINING

All dining and bar locations feature items made with local Michigan and Wisconsin ingredients

Badger Galley
Full Service Bar

SHOP ON BOARD
The Best store available on the Great Lakes! Their online store features only a sampling of some of the unique finds for their onboard gift shop. You can also check out the small gift shop inside the new Ludington ticket office.

I ended up taking the S.S. Badger both to and from Wisconsin and my family had an amazing time. While 4 hours seems long by time, I will tell you, the time flies by and before you know it you are pulling into your destination. As we traveled, my family LOVED the famous S.S. Badger Bingo. The employees that led this effort made the game fun and funny and the prizes were ones that my kids loved to try to win.

All-in-all, this trip was a trip back in time. My father-in-law was someone that worked on the S.S. Badger sister ship, the Spartan back in the 1960s, and the trip over on this old ship really allowed you to enjoy your time while coming closer as a family.

The S.S. Badger usually ends trips across Lake Michigan in mid-October and starts trips again in the Spring.

If you have never traveled on the S.S. Badger before, I highly recommend you experience this for yourself as it is a memory that you will hold on to for years to come!

Find out more information about the S.S. Badger

Learn some amazing facts about the S.S. Badger

Medications You Should Take on Vacation

February 3, 2021 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Vacations are all about giving yourself a much-needed break away from the stress of working life. They’re fun, exciting and can give you the revitalization you’ve been looking for. However, the enjoyment you get from a vacation doesn’t mean they don’t take some planning and remembering to bring medications is one of the most important tasks. Here are the medications you should never forget when going on vacation.

Any Prescriptions

Most important of all, prescriptions are necessary wherever you go. Although the chances are you would never forget them, you should still make sure they are at the top of your list.

Anti-Allergies

If you are a sufferer of allergies (and maybe even if you’re not) you should take any anti-allergy medication with you. If you’re going somewhere new, you never know what might trigger symptoms! Some allergy eye drops and antihistamines won’t take up much room in your luggage but will be a lifesaver when your eyes and nose become itchy.

Motion Sickness Meds

Whether you’re traveling by plane, car or boat, you should stock up on some motion sickness meds. The last thing you want half-way through your journey is to throw up everywhere!

Pain Relief

While the chances are that you’ll be able to find pain-relief meds anywhere you go, it’s still handy to have them with you. Take them with you for any sudden headaches, toothaches, or muscle pains, so you can enjoy your vacation without the interruption of pain.

Sleep Remedies

Many people find sleeping on vacation difficult. If that’s the case, then take some sleep remedies with you. You can find some over-the-counter and, if you really have trouble sleeping, you can ask your doctor to prescribe stronger ones. If you’re taking a long plane ride, then they will help you sleep through that, too.

Diarrhea Meds

Travelers’ diarrhea is fairly common, so it won’t hurt to have some meds on hand to combat diarrhea and painful stomach cramps. You should also stay alert about what you’re consuming when away – food poisoning can ruin a large chunk of a vacation!

Tums

When you’re trying new foods, you might get hit with heartburn. That burning sensation in your chest is anything but pleasant, but carrying tums will help you fight it whenever you need to.

Cough Drops

A cough is annoying at the best of times, but on holiday, the last thing you want is for a persistent cough to interrupt your relaxation. Take a pack of cough drops with you to keep it at bay.

Vitamins

It’s harder to keep track of your eating when you’re on vacation, particularly when you’re enjoying a variety of restaurants and street food. An efficient way of making sure you’re getting all the vitamins you need is to take some multi-vitamins with you. If you’re taking a vacation to a colder country, then vitamin D is especially helpful.

Taking a lot of medications on vacation may make your ‘to pack’ list long, but they won’t take up much room in your luggage. Stay healthy and safe by packing all the essential medications you need so you can focus on having a glorious time.

4 Tips When Choosing Travel Accommodation As A Family

January 6, 2021 by dadofdivas 1 Comment

Everyone knows that family travel is the gift that keeps on giving. There’s no limit on the memories you create when traveling as a family, and it gets better every year. In truth, it’s one of the few things you can do with your kids when they’re well into their teens and adult years! Of course, for many of you, that’s a long way away. Instead, we’ll focus on family travel with younger children.

Thus, we arrive at a key topic when planning your trip: where will you stay? Traveling as a family throws up more complications and concerns than traveling alone or as a couple. Therefore, the accommodation options aren’t as diverse as they once were. You have limited places that are suitable, so how do you choose where your family stays? Here are a few major things to consider.

Space

Obviously, you need to find somewhere with enough space for your whole family. Now, this can rule out a few options as they’re simply not convenient. For instance, some hotels in the area might have small rooms or cramped family rooms that just don’t work for you. What if you have a family of 5, 6, or 7?! You can’t possibly stay in the same room, meaning you’d need to pay for multiple rooms in the same hotel. This throws up other concerns, which you’ll see in the next point.

Instead, you have to turn your attention to accommodation options with enough space for your family to feel comfortable. You could consider looking at a house for rent – it will give you more than enough space to enjoy your trip over a few days. Or, you may think about staying at a campsite – again, you have lots of space here as you can rent a static caravan or bring your own tents. Look at your family, think about how much space you need, then seek out suitable options.

Money

Naturally, money is a big part of choosing where to stay. This is why hotels aren’t always the best option for large families. As mentioned above, you may need to book two rooms for your entire family. Instead of paying for one room for a few nights, you now have double the costs! It quickly makes your family holiday far more expensive than it needs to be – and it’s even worse when you consider that you won’t be in the hotel for that much of your trip!

So, work out your budget and find accommodation options that suit it better than others. This will also influence your decision if you want to rent a house or an Airbnb for your trip. Instead of renting a massive villa, you can save money by renting a small apartment.

Safety

Keeping your family safe is of the utmost importance for all parents. Once more, this is why some families don’t like staying in separate rooms in a hotel. For starters, you need to get two rooms as close to one another as you can. If this isn’t possible, your family is split up, so there’s more risk of bad things happening. It’s rare, but what if someone breaks into the room where your kids are sleeping? There are also safety concerns surrounding some Airbnb’s or campsites as there might not be any strict security measures.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to discover all the security measures before choosing your accommodation. A key safety aspect is where the place is situated – is it in a rough part of town or somewhere that’s generally deemed safe?

Trip duration

The final factor is your trip duration. Now, this is pretty critical as it influences the cost of your accommodation. If you’re going away for a weekend, you suddenly have more options than if you’re away for two weeks. Staying in a hotel for two nights is nowhere near as expensive as booking one for two weeks! As such, it could be a more suitable option if you’re on a short trip.

Likewise, some accommodation options have minimum stay times. For example, a lot of campsites or short-term rentals have a 3-night minimum. If you’re not staying for that long, these options are crossed out for you.

All in all, you need to consider all four of these points before choosing where to stay during your trip. Think about how much space your family has, consider how long you’ll be staying, then work on finding the safest options within your budget. It sounds complicated, but you soon narrow down the possibilities and find the best places to stay.

Flushing Farms Provides Fall Family Fun!

October 7, 2020 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

This past weekend my family and I had the chance to go out to Flushing Farms in Flushing, Michigan. This time of year is always a time when my family and I love to go out and enjoy the fall and this farm provides families with all of the experiences they can expect when it comes to fall family fun!

So what should you expect if you visit?

Acres of fun await you at Flushing Farms! Twist and turn your way through on of their three corn mazes, pick your own pumpkin, bounce houses, hay bales to sit on, climb on or even jump between. Go on a hay ride, visit the petting farm and more.

They even had 3 large fire pits going where you could sit while you are enjoying some cider and donuts.

As a family we had a blast and I know your family will too!