tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36326953508140768512024-03-10T06:36:08.580-04:00Pack Your Passport, BabyTravels with a babyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger131125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-26118837865089218122014-09-05T10:00:00.000-04:002014-09-05T10:00:01.179-04:00Fun Food Friday: Matsumoto Shave Ice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGeUpoRh4OB_kBkLxd7MgojfzIvqESdKrt6WKaPDBt0o8xQ-rDh2YzkryK2VOnB5aBoPy1yHg2HwJvNh5DmvncA_sp8vxC4yfYf9QHRUOK367wY9Y1KREc-n0CrzLKc9TH0hnkfBJ3vGfj/s1600/Hawaii+2013270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGeUpoRh4OB_kBkLxd7MgojfzIvqESdKrt6WKaPDBt0o8xQ-rDh2YzkryK2VOnB5aBoPy1yHg2HwJvNh5DmvncA_sp8vxC4yfYf9QHRUOK367wY9Y1KREc-n0CrzLKc9TH0hnkfBJ3vGfj/s1600/Hawaii+2013270.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lines at <a href="http://matsumotoshaveice.com/" target="_blank">Matsumoto</a> Shave Ice in Haleiwa, Oahu are always long, but the texture of the 'snow' and the fresh, homemade flavors are totally worth the wait!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-74438365115382533942014-08-29T10:00:00.000-04:002014-08-29T10:00:01.148-04:00Fun Food Fridays: Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, Oahu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDGwf4-WvC6byqIm0txeYI7E2vc1THHR0VpSgQoGIFWEXJdkMqXxUZT3rLoPDyM39JU6_GsUJ2cdtHnjJN1gQ-sJzhpB76nK_Yssc2muXewSgA8eY-jfhwzgDH93CpzDKUylSYGair0W1/s1600/Hawaii+2013046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDGwf4-WvC6byqIm0txeYI7E2vc1THHR0VpSgQoGIFWEXJdkMqXxUZT3rLoPDyM39JU6_GsUJ2cdtHnjJN1gQ-sJzhpB76nK_Yssc2muXewSgA8eY-jfhwzgDH93CpzDKUylSYGair0W1/s1600/Hawaii+2013046.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you love garlic shrimp, <a href="http://www.giovannisshrimptruck.com/" target="_blank">Giovanni's Shrimp</a> Truck on the North Shore of Oahu is a must-stop. It's hard to miss the locations in Haleiwa and Kahuku - just look for the long line-ups!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-9340450972076728902014-08-22T10:00:00.000-04:002014-08-22T10:00:04.632-04:00Fun Food Friday: Huelo Smoothies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCkXRY1Ww39ADDzWMzvGqEXrj6rhhyphenhyphenOjrqWZU2EO25L73Yj77TGeRktUw6sJxOeolEUr5mngdkD5f8ujjGkRQFzvaof3cL16O5q8swdQR1D_82M5zhyphenhyphensjayVKiWIrfX3ysJ9_YKHE66ny/s1600/Hawaii+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCkXRY1Ww39ADDzWMzvGqEXrj6rhhyphenhyphenOjrqWZU2EO25L73Yj77TGeRktUw6sJxOeolEUr5mngdkD5f8ujjGkRQFzvaof3cL16O5q8swdQR1D_82M5zhyphenhyphensjayVKiWIrfX3ysJ9_YKHE66ny/s1600/Hawaii+030.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_itLIdOneYSix3QB0rj0zpwaiBNCjaLmQmCZP8RTWPFbtrpTzEi0sVB2l8XtF4OMQ4jC3pSHmr_jbov4sB9n_Y0yLGffOeOdIXInDhA1H_YBK3l_o45ma4e_PSHYgFp5IvT_qivt5R5OA/s1600/Hawaii+035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The Hana Highway on the island of Maui, is full of twists, turns and beautiful scenery. But one of our favorite highlights was stopping for delicious, fresh smoothies and homemade banana bread along the way at the <a href="http://www.huelolookout.coconutprotectors.com/" target="_blank">Huelo Lookout Fruit Stand</a>.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-65174357937828579372014-08-20T09:55:00.003-04:002014-08-20T09:55:44.792-04:00New bike-share for kids in Paris!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQF-aAyFGmbHOGFn0e4OwGtx9ETnrdpRpzr4f_n3wVTNAXFQ0JMYD7E8sN09Pdq3UFuhNeep3-DGoIMrFm9S0QK-ke9pI1CMENWXQk3lZcytMca-55CsgHV8KIs_POnlEl7Q7DJDV1clL/s1600/ptit3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQF-aAyFGmbHOGFn0e4OwGtx9ETnrdpRpzr4f_n3wVTNAXFQ0JMYD7E8sN09Pdq3UFuhNeep3-DGoIMrFm9S0QK-ke9pI1CMENWXQk3lZcytMca-55CsgHV8KIs_POnlEl7Q7DJDV1clL/s1600/ptit3.jpg" height="128" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Source: http://blog.velib.paris.fr/en/ptit-velib/</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How fun is this? A new bike-share program for kids launched earlier this summer in Paris, France.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://blog.velib.paris.fr/en/ptit-velib/" target="_blank">P'tit Vélib'</a> offers a variety of bikes suitable for children from 2 to 8 years of age for rent in several green and/or pedestrian areas in Paris. Helmets are also provided!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Prices vary by rental location but range from 4-6€ per hour (or 10-15€ per day).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Have you tried Paris' new bike-share program for kids?</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-73329769425822157502014-08-08T10:00:00.000-04:002014-08-08T10:00:00.783-04:00Fun Food Friday: Mickey Mouse Waffles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylZtDF6ycOe7_A5tcqnQSLzUrVRqt6Qob5o3aOyzKTvjhVjCeMl08ehGAeCdb2lKeH3Bz2yZLkoYXDJgjE8gdJZ999P3CO5TnP6ZyonlBTXjC0mcLynEjwp5DCb7Sy948LElGMPy919SS/s1600/130603+176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylZtDF6ycOe7_A5tcqnQSLzUrVRqt6Qob5o3aOyzKTvjhVjCeMl08ehGAeCdb2lKeH3Bz2yZLkoYXDJgjE8gdJZ999P3CO5TnP6ZyonlBTXjC0mcLynEjwp5DCb7Sy948LElGMPy919SS/s1600/130603+176.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Though I wasn't super-impressed with our <a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2014/05/why-disney-cruises-arent-for-us.html" target="_blank">Disney cruise</a>, it was hard not to love these adorable Mickey waffles at the breakfast buffet.</span><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-77988951242596549252014-08-01T10:00:00.001-04:002014-08-05T08:51:01.996-04:00Awesome Travel Games: Imagine I Can games by Manhattan Toys<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQwisMHUh_tjedl1JJm74mE0hKuNNxfxFfa8nR8ktPwkoBCB1GuHNSt19I2w_hcQzeru856b0iG684IgXJuAmPSRgpr2pZr5vXsnZ00Eg3ptmc2xPhMUYAVbz_6XuPgJLBf1e3IVUexI2/s1600/t440_cfeb6ce025d2d665df4e71268fc5b984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQwisMHUh_tjedl1JJm74mE0hKuNNxfxFfa8nR8ktPwkoBCB1GuHNSt19I2w_hcQzeru856b0iG684IgXJuAmPSRgpr2pZr5vXsnZ00Eg3ptmc2xPhMUYAVbz_6XuPgJLBf1e3IVUexI2/s1600/t440_cfeb6ce025d2d665df4e71268fc5b984.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Image source: www.manhattantoys.com</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since we travel so regularly, I’m always on the lookout for fun games and toys that are a) inexpensive and b) compact to take along on our travels. So I was thrilled to find the <a href="http://www.manhattantoy.com/k/search?q=%22imagine+i+can%22" target="_blank">Imagine I Can</a> tinned games by Manhattan Toys.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Manhattan Toys have created a clever and cute series of games and toys for ages 3 and up which pack away in their own tins. My favorites are the most compact games, priced at about $6 each depending on the retailer. Just slightly larger than a deck of cards, these games are perfect for traveling!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">B and I have been enjoying the <a href="http://www.manhattantoy.com/p/imagine-i-can-catch-a-pirate" target="_blank">Catch a Pirate</a> game and instructions are provided for standard play and modified play for beginning players.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With little pieces, these games aren't particularly well-suited for play in the car or on an airplane (I wouldn’t want to crawl under my airplane seat each time a piece is dropped!) but they are just the right size for packing in your carry-on for keeping busy at the airport, on a cruise ship or in a hotel room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where to buy:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.manhattantoy.com/">www.manhattantoy.com</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.mastermindtoys.com/">www.mastermindtoys.com</a></span><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-48346367195143398582014-08-01T10:00:00.000-04:002014-08-01T10:00:01.693-04:00Fun Food Friday: Spam Nuts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7R3InhbKfHlQaXX9pzVCR-odl6jjhWcgl0GCh_aWtl7o_fqKAuHlo3bN_spKq3eAoWKRDPJkLU_NTFTBMWzDzzxWDTIA1xp9yhVrQXDfGHDJJz8ud0MUO9guQSKPTLeuG6u7eTJDlaSf9/s1600/Hawaii+530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7R3InhbKfHlQaXX9pzVCR-odl6jjhWcgl0GCh_aWtl7o_fqKAuHlo3bN_spKq3eAoWKRDPJkLU_NTFTBMWzDzzxWDTIA1xp9yhVrQXDfGHDJJz8ud0MUO9guQSKPTLeuG6u7eTJDlaSf9/s1600/Hawaii+530.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a kid, I can remember my Mom cutting up Spam into thin slices and pan-frying it with brown sugar for breakfast, but it's something I haven't eaten in decades. Visiting Hawaii, it is interesting to see how Spam has become part of the cuisine, with everything from Spam musabi to Spam fried rice appearing on menus. These </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spam-flavored macadamia nuts seemed like the perfect Hawaiian souvenir!</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/Menuism/why-do-hawaiians-love-spam-so-much_b_1901306.html" target="_blank">Huffington Post Article: Why Do Hawaiians Love Spam So Much?</a></span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Are you a fan of Spam?</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-9920128138420571592014-07-25T10:21:00.002-04:002014-07-25T10:21:51.236-04:00Fun Food Friday: Key West Conch Fritters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMgypGI3oleuP963NQKSlnpwR7hO-V0xwl_QVVeVdusunQkHteNWqUaEympzn6kznOhmZmhXcT4Xz7CxaNPJDvvIquF-xtU26jp7eo2sdeE-gZ0k9Ffevm6eoUAyz73RWYkojzih48SkG/s1600/140317+1+(149).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMgypGI3oleuP963NQKSlnpwR7hO-V0xwl_QVVeVdusunQkHteNWqUaEympzn6kznOhmZmhXcT4Xz7CxaNPJDvvIquF-xtU26jp7eo2sdeE-gZ0k9Ffevm6eoUAyz73RWYkojzih48SkG/s1600/140317+1+(149).jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Conch fritters are a can't miss treat when visiting Key West. B and I loved these ones from the conch fritters stand just outside the Aquarium. The key lime mustard dipping sauce was phenomenal!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-92056873958845054572014-07-18T10:00:00.000-04:002014-07-18T10:00:00.615-04:00Fun Food Friday: Giant Apple Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqp8hM3nXOVtEC_GCaQ4BxoD1lgd0adRSSpNoGTJ1eI2JcfrTwDNy9y6Xg5NxDTDlZEc-pV3oqS7YbiKqWv9UyTj83q-5exkgJusMcWj_-jQDv4VkR3JSqhuyEUzoiN0VjlCWHk1QjVRv/s1600/140317+1+(183).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqp8hM3nXOVtEC_GCaQ4BxoD1lgd0adRSSpNoGTJ1eI2JcfrTwDNy9y6Xg5NxDTDlZEc-pV3oqS7YbiKqWv9UyTj83q-5exkgJusMcWj_-jQDv4VkR3JSqhuyEUzoiN0VjlCWHk1QjVRv/s1600/140317+1+(183).jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If the movie <i>Jerry McGuire</i> had been about dessert rather than sports, perhaps Renée Zellweger's memorable line would have been "You had me at pie". That is exactly what came into my mind when we were offered a slice on a recent Royal Caribbean cruise. Apple pie can be hard to get just right but it was delicious!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-79917897000891337482014-07-15T11:17:00.001-04:002014-07-15T11:17:20.596-04:00New Construction Theme Park: Diggerland USA<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdp2qxE_cFimYyyqBZW5NYQ_8r5HN7Wr7JNQ9ENL6KjGQnT_7iuz8S5MG-47FdOaHUfLZ2BSXq5d_QmO6gtfg6oyutswajfuVqlfZeSHFIdvwnEqsCheJDZ3KyD8s5qgQtBXAAQaj8tQEY/s1600/giant-digger-0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdp2qxE_cFimYyyqBZW5NYQ_8r5HN7Wr7JNQ9ENL6KjGQnT_7iuz8S5MG-47FdOaHUfLZ2BSXq5d_QmO6gtfg6oyutswajfuVqlfZeSHFIdvwnEqsCheJDZ3KyD8s5qgQtBXAAQaj8tQEY/s1600/giant-digger-0001.jpg" height="172" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: http://diggerlandusa.com/</span> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If your kids are crazy about construction vehicles, they will probably LOVE <a href="http://diggerlandusa.com/" target="_blank">Diggerland USA</a> which opened last month in West Berlin, New Jersey. With Giant Diggers, Dumper Trucks, Backhoe Adventure and 20 other attractions, kids will get to fulfill all of their construction dreams! West Berlin, New Jersey is an 8-hr drive from Toronto or a quick 30-minute drive from Philadelphia's International Airport. No hard hats or safety boots required!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have you been yet? What did you think?</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-75378920730477593522014-07-04T12:43:00.002-04:002014-07-04T12:43:43.287-04:00Fun Food Friday: Belgian Chocolate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianEwwy6jofb409Ki69v3uTdEgVwnVyRyQBu4QtmO6LZChwTDADW0num17Zcis_QNESgEFM4zEuWHUbagjU7zA0OumJbqI4isLs6vVLZZQui42bmv6IVFuAqQVhCCRgibXZvrzw2zocrAF/s1600/IMG_6368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianEwwy6jofb409Ki69v3uTdEgVwnVyRyQBu4QtmO6LZChwTDADW0num17Zcis_QNESgEFM4zEuWHUbagjU7zA0OumJbqI4isLs6vVLZZQui42bmv6IVFuAqQVhCCRgibXZvrzw2zocrAF/s1600/IMG_6368.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is hard to resist the lure and aroma of chocolate shops in Bruges, Belgium, particularly when being drawn in by these clever chocolate creations!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-62828453636433346242014-06-27T10:00:00.000-04:002014-06-27T10:00:00.746-04:00Fun Food Friday: Sky-High Key Lime Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46pzCk-hmLbyWtm1f_UMmZtQSVYW-n4lNvBFH9sGyFnI06RqwtylhAtkXqSrDNDcTYlOnmB5_PCNEk7ZHGg-YWJ0GN_7afUw-1JVEBaCjPbFHRkaZoOtRyBenHPnwrstmgLERvqOzD0PY/s1600/140317+1+(134).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46pzCk-hmLbyWtm1f_UMmZtQSVYW-n4lNvBFH9sGyFnI06RqwtylhAtkXqSrDNDcTYlOnmB5_PCNEk7ZHGg-YWJ0GN_7afUw-1JVEBaCjPbFHRkaZoOtRyBenHPnwrstmgLERvqOzD0PY/s1600/140317+1+(134).jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Key Lime Pie is a can't miss treat when visiting Key West, Florida and one of our favorites is at <a href="http://www.blueheavenkw.com/" target="_blank">Blue Heaven</a>. There's usually a long wait for tables and they don't take reservations but the food is worth it!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-87656287893577582592014-06-20T14:27:00.002-04:002014-06-20T14:27:41.440-04:00Fun Food Friday: Banana Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5jk2sNQEuPsnsMiey8DFJnHMuUEsqOD6Zeoq1pIFxGWEQ9NRrQQ7jy-q-6paoVcPqnSq0qSKuVNzlmARDObw6xPBVr6Zq_7Z_BnqddbkmPAU2Q8yqSQi_TEGsUAgvr7LsLFcBrBrq2FO/s1600/140317+1+(109).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5jk2sNQEuPsnsMiey8DFJnHMuUEsqOD6Zeoq1pIFxGWEQ9NRrQQ7jy-q-6paoVcPqnSq0qSKuVNzlmARDObw6xPBVr6Zq_7Z_BnqddbkmPAU2Q8yqSQi_TEGsUAgvr7LsLFcBrBrq2FO/s1600/140317+1+(109).jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">B and I love reading Richard Scarry books so we just HAD to try banana soup when it appeared on the menu on one of our Royal Caribbean cruises. We weren't sure what to expect, but it was more like a banana milkshake - and was delicious! Bananas Gorilla would thoroughly approve!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-72360267135120014932014-06-13T10:00:00.000-04:002014-06-13T10:00:01.310-04:00Fun Food Friday: Beignets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsi9j8QBEYsedOrU6l7Uoxcb_14_h8ZYbk2oWdJjkNwc-_ycTHOyJlKd0FpQzQ0HH5gObqxzVtY-iCcWWMZh6fjuBYhmR7dLJ6adzQJG1yvSa5EIqfgr4vTbWujHzfSfI1PSW77JSUuRdr/s1600/140317+1+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsi9j8QBEYsedOrU6l7Uoxcb_14_h8ZYbk2oWdJjkNwc-_ycTHOyJlKd0FpQzQ0HH5gObqxzVtY-iCcWWMZh6fjuBYhmR7dLJ6adzQJG1yvSa5EIqfgr4vTbWujHzfSfI1PSW77JSUuRdr/s1600/140317+1+(3).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fresh, hot beignets at Cafe du Monde, New Orleans.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-42034907657315172362014-06-06T10:00:00.000-04:002014-06-06T10:00:00.420-04:00Fun Food Friday: Alligator sausage!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUePSBX6QsqNqHp8mVBc7ekCahMJ_CbJaTiP05du8KVXPePUmtbNn9fjn-wjaEuycPybxy1jYEAaNEve2EbnaBZOMobZp5Q4-0FTRhq9L9fx8R9D_R0jjOrdNSw32bdTMpd0DUt3I_NUq3/s1600/140317+1+(42).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUePSBX6QsqNqHp8mVBc7ekCahMJ_CbJaTiP05du8KVXPePUmtbNn9fjn-wjaEuycPybxy1jYEAaNEve2EbnaBZOMobZp5Q4-0FTRhq9L9fx8R9D_R0jjOrdNSw32bdTMpd0DUt3I_NUq3/s1600/140317+1+(42).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A giant alligator sausage from N'awlins in the French Market, New Orleans. B ate the whole thing!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-12654523948712763652014-05-30T10:00:00.000-04:002014-05-30T10:00:00.856-04:00Fun Food Friday: Tacos!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdpgKi2G6nV4TMWFI1LJe-aeux7HzPAJeS4sAmk6UeQk8GoweOdPyBcHhZxJAPFEMHHPvlc1fha7FAOX1sQRMghZH2maDDc6vPp_LYTcK3jSQdARKQuRt3z71m6RuwT0mh7q1Nf4T1MID/s1600/IMG_3940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXdpgKi2G6nV4TMWFI1LJe-aeux7HzPAJeS4sAmk6UeQk8GoweOdPyBcHhZxJAPFEMHHPvlc1fha7FAOX1sQRMghZH2maDDc6vPp_LYTcK3jSQdARKQuRt3z71m6RuwT0mh7q1Nf4T1MID/s1600/IMG_3940.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Colorful (and delicious!) tacos, Valladolid, Mexico</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-84179535618946337212014-05-23T10:00:00.000-04:002014-05-23T10:00:00.098-04:00Fun Food Friday: Crepes in Paris!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQBrSbftthTSH8Nvfe1ETqkXdo6tFwxyKumHqccxwCzzjoEbBrgANNmWJv_jvebSnw6fo7vXd64Ym8OzQHpRpq5BAovURB3ofwtnEhuHIaZfSvH8YjkqZlEppkdKRqlOj_eWKyN5UDM8v/s1600/121010+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQBrSbftthTSH8Nvfe1ETqkXdo6tFwxyKumHqccxwCzzjoEbBrgANNmWJv_jvebSnw6fo7vXd64Ym8OzQHpRpq5BAovURB3ofwtnEhuHIaZfSvH8YjkqZlEppkdKRqlOj_eWKyN5UDM8v/s1600/121010+004.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There's nothing better than a chocolate filled crepe, eaten at a sidewalk table in Paris!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-81180953596105670092014-05-16T10:00:00.000-04:002014-05-16T10:00:00.822-04:00Fun Food Friday: Giant Cupcake!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKBkpgaFCkY7ZmJtTtdDdg8lWMOXssUGS8XwWY7jGVNMfuHCkv8JbefheiEt8hA3Gh5aIxluYEW5aQc_IKhreNNhtTpTCGD2nWVp0aLz9gnkzoN3O3TlDHkCVmwO-tqPAJ2go8z1vACya/s1600/greek_isles_mom542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKBkpgaFCkY7ZmJtTtdDdg8lWMOXssUGS8XwWY7jGVNMfuHCkv8JbefheiEt8hA3Gh5aIxluYEW5aQc_IKhreNNhtTpTCGD2nWVp0aLz9gnkzoN3O3TlDHkCVmwO-tqPAJ2go8z1vACya/s1600/greek_isles_mom542.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A beautiful giant cupcake on display in the Plaka area of Athens.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-14569420615197178312014-05-09T10:07:00.002-04:002014-05-09T10:20:49.031-04:00Why Disney Cruises Aren't For Us<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oew4WgojSxHDQ5PXdhxKPFya0k2UeVac_W4YJVPn-9pCmoEQESPG3lNtoNJeg89jmkLjYWn9Z6ihhQNaBxSwH5QfPuVHg-yJS1Qe4I4Uteay0In2eDaCSo3mQn_6W_6J319dnSgWBQlF/s1600/130603+243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oew4WgojSxHDQ5PXdhxKPFya0k2UeVac_W4YJVPn-9pCmoEQESPG3lNtoNJeg89jmkLjYWn9Z6ihhQNaBxSwH5QfPuVHg-yJS1Qe4I4Uteay0In2eDaCSo3mQn_6W_6J319dnSgWBQlF/s1600/130603+243.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This
time last year B and I had to opportunity to join his grandparents for a one-week
cruise on the Disney Wonder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It left me
feeling, well, disappointed. But, before you think I’m a spoil-sport, let me
explain…</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">First,
I’ve got to tell you I’m a big fan of Disney.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I love Walt Disney World, I love the Magic Kingdom (really, who
doesn’t?), Animal Kingdom and Epcot Center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Norway pavilion at Epcot led to my decades-old dream of visiting
Norway, and no matter how many times I go
through the Haunted Mansion at the Magic Kingdom, I still get a thrill out of
being joined by a ghost in our ‘Doom Buggy.’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ve delighted in the wonderful buffet (and service!) at <a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2011/12/great-family-friendly-dining-in-orlando.html" target="_blank">Boma at Animal Kingdom Lodge</a>, enjoyed the light-hearted luau
at the Polynesian Resort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, I’ve
purchased my fair share of Goofy-shaped gummies, Mickey-shaped pasta, t-shirts
and Disney toys. So, not surprisingly, my expectations were a bit high… </span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Of
all the cruises we’ve done, I felt this one was actually the LEAST kid-friendly
and a big let-down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s why:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a word, yuck. It’s not exactly
news that Disney Cruises aren’t known for the quality of food. There were
occasional exceptions (like the wonderful Mickey-shaped waffles!), but the quality of most meals left something to be
desired and dinner options were surprisingly limited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we didn’t want to do dinner in one of the
dining rooms, the only other option was to eat hot dogs or pizza.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unlike most other cruise lines, there is no
come-and-go-as-you-like buffet option for those days when baby is fussy, when
the kids are sleepy and jet lagged or when you just don’t feel like dressing
smartly for the dining rooms. While food on the kid’s menu was especially poor
(think greasy and heavily processed), on the plus side, the entree was always
served with well-prepared fresh vegetables.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
Navigator, the ship’s news was always delivered well after 10 pm, long after we
would be asleep and therefore of little use in planning for the day ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While this didn’t matter much for sea days,
it would have been nice to learn of the logistical details of some of the ports
a bit earlier than having to rush through it while getting ready to get off the
ship.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDiRQwA82Udk9ogSNELA7hY78Uq2fRcLZREDg0a86fThZgPHZx7qp9-I_XZK2A89uzy4Ww5B3MIuLOAN-2-hzX804PhCpKeL1aIjYfwtlVJ8aExeb9RqUeog_GgjLdAoIlCgmIw9sCmmu/s1600/130603+176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDiRQwA82Udk9ogSNELA7hY78Uq2fRcLZREDg0a86fThZgPHZx7qp9-I_XZK2A89uzy4Ww5B3MIuLOAN-2-hzX804PhCpKeL1aIjYfwtlVJ8aExeb9RqUeog_GgjLdAoIlCgmIw9sCmmu/s1600/130603+176.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
cabin bathroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is no question,
the split bathroom is handy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However,
neither of the doors would fully open, making entering and exiting awkward,
wasting a lot of space and obviously making the toilet room more challenging to
clean properly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Given that a large
number of passengers are toilet training kids, the toilet had a less-than-ideal
smell.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
Kid’s Club.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t get me wrong, Disney’s
two kid centers - the Oceaneer’s Club and Oceaneer’s Lab are great - lots of
different activities and a fun play structure for the younger set.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What made the kid centers less than ideal
however were long lines to check in each morning and the huge bracelets kids
have to wear to keep track of them on board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am not exaggerating when I say they are huge, uncomfortable and poorly
thought-out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was ridiculously huge on
B’s small wrist and he was screaming for it to come off after just a few hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The clubs also accommodate so many kids, it
felt a bit more like crowd control than a place where kids had much personal
interaction with the staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>B is pretty
easy going but he literally hated going there.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
noise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know… we were on a cruise ship
full of kids and extra noise is to be expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But we were awakened almost every night by kids laughing, screaming and
running through the hallways well after midnight.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me premise this with the
exceptions:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our waiter, assistant waiter
and cabin attendant were wonderfully friendly and helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately I found the rest of the cast
members less so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many crew members seemed
downright disinterested and many did not know the ship well enough to even point
the direction to the dining room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I got
the distinct impression the ship had just done a large switchover of staff but
don’t know if this was actually the case.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
Pixar Party – the cruise’s signature event, and a party B was really looking
forward to – was moved from its regular 7:30 pm time to 10:15 pm, to allow an
adult comedian to perform in the earlier time slot. With the 3-hour time
difference from home, this was like having the party at 1:15 in the
morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>B was asleep well before the
party even started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Booting the Pixar
Party from ‘prime time’ in favor of an adult show was perplexing to say the
least.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYVOQpmH0iR1K3O5EHtwDXmbzlbeNOMjhwtQ0s-u83jBa88uuloyP1HjZ_Ku_Hbr6wklvgOvul9cy95U7DBnLse83GjUTv3bEbso6wEu18Zwt6PUSxGAfkS-2fc2OUgw1uoTV5StA8xs8p/s1600/130603+174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYVOQpmH0iR1K3O5EHtwDXmbzlbeNOMjhwtQ0s-u83jBa88uuloyP1HjZ_Ku_Hbr6wklvgOvul9cy95U7DBnLse83GjUTv3bEbso6wEu18Zwt6PUSxGAfkS-2fc2OUgw1uoTV5StA8xs8p/s1600/130603+174.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
production shows are well done but they really aren’t targeted to young
kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mickey rarely made an appearance
and the Toy Story show, while visually splendid, had a distinct focus on the
scarier elements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>B’s grandparents and I
enjoyed the highly polished shows, but B (who really should have been the
audience for the show) did not.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
onboard elevators were very small.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
made getting using a stroller particularly awkward as only one would fit in the
elevator at one time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This issue was
particularly frustrating to passengers on board using wheelchairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we had the option of collapsing the
stroller and walking up or down several flights of stairs, this is not an
option for everyone.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Long
lines for absolutely everything: At the breakfast and lunch buffets, to get our
table at dinner each night, to meet the characters, to get off the ship, to get back on the ship, to
meet Disney characters, to speak to guest services, to check into the Oceaneer’s
Club…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
muster drill was chaotic and disorganized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, I
wonder if the ship had recently undergone a large-scale employee turnover, but
whatever the reason, I was left feeling uneasy about the ability of staff to
deal with any emergencies that might arise.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dinner
times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t really put this on Disney
but there was a decidedly different air from other cruises we’ve been on. With
so many kids at neighboring tables using the cutlery as a table toy, it hardly
allowed for a relaxing family meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Adding to that, I felt uncomfortable watching parents ask their servers
to cut up their children’s food for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And, this happened a lot.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">While
there were a number of factors which dampened our Disney cruise experience,
here is what Disney did great:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
Disney Wonder isn’t one of their newer ships but it was well-maintained, many
areas had been recently renovated and the ship (with the exception of our bathroom)
was spotlessly clean.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bathtubs
in every cabin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cute, kid-sized bathtubs
meant this was one cruise where I could leave our <a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2011/11/bath-time.html" target="_blank">inflatable tub</a> at home.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Our
cabin was roomy and it had LOTS of storage space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>B had his own pull-out bed divided from the
rest of the cabin by a well-placed curtain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The cabin also had a childproof balcony safety latch, something that is
frequently lacking in many other cruise line cabins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another bonus was the refrigerator, which rather
of being stocked with loads of additional-cost items, was left completely empty
so we had lots of room to keep B’s milk and other snacks.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wi-Fi,
while typically expensive, was strong throughout the ship, including in our
cabin.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wonderful
retail shops with some really cute merchandise – great for mementos of our
Alaska cruise, and for taking home as souvenirs for all the cousins.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBG0jnkSZqH03bTass3-j7_noxz6SrXN7QMvrMtO9OGTPT1fIwxOGnkrd4QHTap6FLqtJnYYBzgPmQNUo058fF6QoEmuhts54icfk_gtxTiJcrUDFR5eBjIdWJXwNswQoQIuJOcLXlqU4/s1600/130603+130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBG0jnkSZqH03bTass3-j7_noxz6SrXN7QMvrMtO9OGTPT1fIwxOGnkrd4QHTap6FLqtJnYYBzgPmQNUo058fF6QoEmuhts54icfk_gtxTiJcrUDFR5eBjIdWJXwNswQoQIuJOcLXlqU4/s1600/130603+130.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5
words: Mickey Mouse ice cream bars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Need
I say more?</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Our
Disney Cruise wasn’t all bad – we absolutely loved Alaska, but I don’t think
we’ll cruise with Disney again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t
I help but think the money would have been better spent at a Walt Disney Resort
hotel instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every cruise line has its
strengths and weaknesses and Disney’s cruises will work very well for a lot of
people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It just didn’t work for us.</span></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Have
you been on a Disney Cruise?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What was
YOUR experience?</span></b></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Read more:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2011/09/cruising-with-baby.html" target="_blank">Cruising with a baby</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2014/03/getting-away-from-crowds-and-your.html" target="_blank">Getting away from crowds and your stereotypical cruise vacation</a> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2012/11/reasons-not-to-take-baby-on-cruise-no.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Reasons not to take baby on a cruise? No way!</span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2012/08/why-cruises-are-awesome-for-multi.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Why cruises are awesome for multigenerational travel</span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2012/03/cruising-on-oasis-of-seas-with-baby.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cruising on Oasis of the Seas with a baby</span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.packyourpassport.ca/2011/12/hurtigruten-with-2-year-old.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cruising the Norwegian Coast with a 2 year old</span></a></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-76997354687376791992014-05-09T10:00:00.000-04:002014-05-09T10:00:00.585-04:00Fun Food Friday: Konstantine Bakery, Athens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PbWXaQzxxDpAvSeM4EcF0uj8QUgYL9nXbL7MlxHmoWw5CWGPst1S6p3PWKRxGpmrABAzOTGdcAaVrF5UVHRBNUsVLflY25BrdJm1IXiT6tADoraqqJp7gr2ziASVNcFqYEa_Qv7991E_/s1600/greek_isles_mom551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PbWXaQzxxDpAvSeM4EcF0uj8QUgYL9nXbL7MlxHmoWw5CWGPst1S6p3PWKRxGpmrABAzOTGdcAaVrF5UVHRBNUsVLflY25BrdJm1IXiT6tADoraqqJp7gr2ziASVNcFqYEa_Qv7991E_/s1600/greek_isles_mom551.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Delicious baklava, gelato and other treats at the Konstantine Bakery in Athens.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwl64McatF7KtriwnThxyv05LoLQqlCLrkfbQTsgqK4qbmwqEDw2TDGCGHX-VYC-Ulo541kQhg1kT7o0zmYkqPhjX_I6mb3q0YLy4ROrwTzEoAgvvyOVzmSB-kMVmTNI4BeTOLEbcDsg_0/s1600/greek_isles_mom544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwl64McatF7KtriwnThxyv05LoLQqlCLrkfbQTsgqK4qbmwqEDw2TDGCGHX-VYC-Ulo541kQhg1kT7o0zmYkqPhjX_I6mb3q0YLy4ROrwTzEoAgvvyOVzmSB-kMVmTNI4BeTOLEbcDsg_0/s1600/greek_isles_mom544.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-46691157633156841902014-05-02T10:00:00.000-04:002014-05-02T10:00:01.702-04:00Fun Food Friday: Ice Cream in Amsterdam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGb56o3AWp3dM0C-xagBFtUaECsraFCIOlpZPKxMluSlm3KL80wUbV7BA2Hojze9_pORTM4NMV0BnmntkGy8dfkWGgJTTU3sKb0B0Q4WUlgLhbxUeCNH-tcHPZhjrPZfjIuvwcArMP7h3J/s1600/IMG_6053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGb56o3AWp3dM0C-xagBFtUaECsraFCIOlpZPKxMluSlm3KL80wUbV7BA2Hojze9_pORTM4NMV0BnmntkGy8dfkWGgJTTU3sKb0B0Q4WUlgLhbxUeCNH-tcHPZhjrPZfjIuvwcArMP7h3J/s1600/IMG_6053.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ice cream is great anywhere. But it tastes a bit sweeter overlooking the canals of Amsterdam.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-89275437217530502862014-04-25T10:00:00.000-04:002014-04-25T10:00:01.649-04:00Fun Food Friday: Scones in Oman<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaa7E3pZQUgN1l4J8pI4QkImont1zAaSGLYfClKs8EeoYyggiE0uki7rKBvHW_4K9tW_pHdMQ4ZPjH7VOnPHqQZWlwjwmTk36PguasKK8Wjf70fZ2VrFe4jGRWpgFoyjN5TEWo5EeAg1yE/s1600/IMG_5125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaa7E3pZQUgN1l4J8pI4QkImont1zAaSGLYfClKs8EeoYyggiE0uki7rKBvHW_4K9tW_pHdMQ4ZPjH7VOnPHqQZWlwjwmTk36PguasKK8Wjf70fZ2VrFe4jGRWpgFoyjN5TEWo5EeAg1yE/s1600/IMG_5125.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Enjoying a swanky afternoon tea at Al Bustan Palace in Muscat, Oman</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-72950037980766201482014-04-18T10:00:00.000-04:002014-04-18T10:00:01.468-04:00Fun Food Friday: A Meal With A View<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gDEDy9_9N8v2CoRXWkyNREdC71EEmUHuReqEq6ssErY3mjrAWAF_LRTIF_i_I3-ItOH0fYq-52vnVPJWHviel82IFNHS6bqz0dY-W_gR0d4w-39W-DtSS-GTD6PyL_tAQJ7BKob1UyxH/s1600/IMG_5459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gDEDy9_9N8v2CoRXWkyNREdC71EEmUHuReqEq6ssErY3mjrAWAF_LRTIF_i_I3-ItOH0fYq-52vnVPJWHviel82IFNHS6bqz0dY-W_gR0d4w-39W-DtSS-GTD6PyL_tAQJ7BKob1UyxH/s1600/IMG_5459.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The food at the Beachcomber Restaurant at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai is as wonderful as the view!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-20801301141384114832014-04-11T10:00:00.000-04:002014-04-11T10:00:02.030-04:00Fun Food Friday: Cendol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUybI7e5usOXHTJ-yXxdqOZAZacqRBxJhT5i0wVJgdjPRPIJRvKplzvlO0JI0KYXzpRobT6D0lsYVEqTTYGlpUWXCjxmtYElZOOLAMSeC3GeLZzwuvLI40UKrMDqwyas8KTsDvmpTc05sZ/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUybI7e5usOXHTJ-yXxdqOZAZacqRBxJhT5i0wVJgdjPRPIJRvKplzvlO0JI0KYXzpRobT6D0lsYVEqTTYGlpUWXCjxmtYElZOOLAMSeC3GeLZzwuvLI40UKrMDqwyas8KTsDvmpTc05sZ/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A refreshing, icy cendol in Penang, Malaysia. No amount of coaxing could get B to try this one!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632695350814076851.post-77137263146349191222014-04-08T12:32:00.000-04:002014-04-08T12:32:13.217-04:00Lego Delight at In’s Point Mall, Hong Kong<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">B and I actually happened upon Lego paradise at In's Point Mall in Hong Kong by
accident… We headed to the mall specifically to buy Daddy a souvenir at the
Bruce Lee Club store on the second floor (<a href="http://www.bruceleeclub.com/">http://www.bruceleeclub.com/</a>)
and found ourselves surrounded by the most amazing selection of Lego sets and
figurines.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUue_AzF0S2ozegY1ke87ek9ARu32Z9GgszaHmQLBsdSAOmsOcyIRk78wJ2LbJ58GIYH9PTljZ7ztcgFgARfTJL11vj-no8QNgz2yakoS0COsxy2rtbbgfu0M1fHrPV9jdLfjPlnTJSP9/s1600/140317+250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUue_AzF0S2ozegY1ke87ek9ARu32Z9GgszaHmQLBsdSAOmsOcyIRk78wJ2LbJ58GIYH9PTljZ7ztcgFgARfTJL11vj-no8QNgz2yakoS0COsxy2rtbbgfu0M1fHrPV9jdLfjPlnTJSP9/s1600/140317+250.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Having fun with our purchases</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Unfortunately our visit was in the early afternoon and only
a handful of shops were open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But even
with only a limited number of stores, the selection was amazing. We found plenty of mini-figures
and harder-to-find sets - at very reasonable prices, and many of the
newer, easy-to-find sets were less expensive than sets we priced out at <a href="http://www.toysrus.com.hk/index.html" target="_blank">Toys R Us at Harbour City</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In addition to Lego, the shops were also full of new and vintage
superhero action figures and other collectibles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBAEYPK17w2QtuSjcutJSRBfusXLyAFW1eE10ChL9TAKJNv_KYxkd3neakzvmExZSlqCkr2BtHOwYqqgCQcufvzMhiNb_ORwk1JysFU9WTmglMxE6cItpCug1yJBrsU-davUH31kNKvk3/s1600/Hong-Kong-Mall-for-LEGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBAEYPK17w2QtuSjcutJSRBfusXLyAFW1eE10ChL9TAKJNv_KYxkd3neakzvmExZSlqCkr2BtHOwYqqgCQcufvzMhiNb_ORwk1JysFU9WTmglMxE6cItpCug1yJBrsU-davUH31kNKvk3/s1600/Hong-Kong-Mall-for-LEGO.jpg" height="120" width="200" /></a>In’s Point Mall is located at 530-538 Nathan Road in Mong Kok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If using the MTR, go to Yau Ma Tei Station
and take exit A2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take the escalator or
elevator up to the 1st and 2nd floors (if using a
stroller, be aware the elevators are quite compact!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The shops we visited accepted cash only.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From a cursory scan of shop hours, the ideal
time to visit is after 4 pm on weekends or after 6 pm on weekdays when most of the
shops open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of the shops sold
similar sets/figures so it is a good idea to bring a pen and paper and do a bit
of price comparison between vendors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
was so busy window shopping, I forgot to take pictures but this image from <a href="http://thebrickblogger.com/2012/05/lego-hong-kong/">http://thebrickblogger.com/2012/05/lego-hong-kong/</a>
gives a sense of the place.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0