Why Karamea Is a Perfect Vacation for Outdoorsy Families

The Karamea region in New Zealand offers family-friendly hiking trails and unique accommodations. Despite limited options for food and lodging in the remote village, Last Resort Karamea stands out with its cozy rooms and knowledgeable owners who are passionate about the area. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes, including the Heaphy Track and Fenian Caves, making a return trip highly appealing.… Read More Why Karamea Is a Perfect Vacation for Outdoorsy Families

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7 Great Cities for Your Destination Bachelorette Party

While I am a few years past this phase of my life, I can honestly say that the wedding phase (when everyone in your friends circle is getting married) was one of my absolute favorite phases. Although the wedding phase is full of stress, it can also be quite fun with lots of parties, girl time, and (hopefully) travel. If you are planning a destination bachelorette party, here are a few destinations you should unquestionably have on your list of ideas. … Read More 7 Great Cities for Your Destination Bachelorette Party

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Taking the ferry to South Island and driving to Murchison

During a New Zealand trip, we traveled from Taiphape to Wellington, then rode a 4-hour ferry to Pincton. The ferry provided scenic views and comfortable amenities. Despite limited time in Wellington, must-do activities and accommodations are highlighted. In Picton, we recommends swimming with dolphins and enjoying the stunning coastal views.… Read More Taking the ferry to South Island and driving to Murchison

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Hiking Tongariro National Park with an Infant

This post details a day trip from Taupo to Tongariro National Park in New Zealand. We regret only spending a few hours there, as the park is stunning and offers several easy hikes. We recommend planning to spend more time exploring the various walks and enjoying activities such as rafting and skiing in the area before continuing on to Wellington. We also provide accommodation recommendations.… Read More Hiking Tongariro National Park with an Infant

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What to do while your are visiting Lake Taupo, New Zealand

During our New Zealand trip, we stayed at Boulevard Waters in Lake Taupo, with stunning lake views and convenient access. The apartment had great amenities and value for the price. Lake Taupo is a popular vacation spot with geothermal attractions like Waimangu and Wai-o-tapu. Two nights in this beautiful area were sufficient.… Read More What to do while your are visiting Lake Taupo, New Zealand

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An Overnight Stay in Waitomo, New Zealand

During our visit to Waitomo, we stayed at the Waitomo Village Chalets and explored the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. The accommodation was basic but convenient, close to the caves and a nearby general store. We took cave tours, although some were not suitable for our baby. Limited food options in Waitomo led us to eat at The General Store and Waitomo Homestead for meals.… Read More An Overnight Stay in Waitomo, New Zealand

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How we Planned a Three Week New Zealand Adventure with a Five Month Old

A couple’s dream honeymoon to New Zealand was initially thwarted by the pandemic, and later complicated by a pregnancy. Despite discouragement, they chose to travel with their infant, meticulously planning a scenic itinerary spanning national parks and cultural experiences. Their successful trip serves as an encouragement for other parents not to postpone travel due to having a baby.… Read More How we Planned a Three Week New Zealand Adventure with a Five Month Old

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Perfect Valentine’s Day Cookies from Local Small Businesses

It does not matter if you are a fully grown adult or a child in grade school, Valentine’s Day is always such a great day to spend time with those you love and indulge in some tasty sweets and treats. For me, cookies are some of my favorite treats of all time. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, there are many reasons to buy a few cookies for this year. You could buy dozens of cookies for your kids’ Valentine’s Day celebration at school or if you are looking to treat your significant other to something special on the holiday, here are some great places for you to buy some deliciously baked cookies that will perfectly fit your needs this holiday season.… Read More Perfect Valentine’s Day Cookies from Local Small Businesses

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Uniquely Romantic Lofts for Two that are Perfect for Valentine’s Day

Everyone’s favorite romantic holiday is only a month away! Have you and your significant other started making plans for your next romantic getaway? Thankfully, this year, Valentine’s Day falls on one of the most perfect days of the week. Sunday. For those of you with children, this allows you the perfect time to let the kids spend the weekend with their grandparents and have a romantic weekend getaway with just you and your spouse. Matt and I have done some digging on Airbnb and found some unique lofts that are within a 4 hour drive of Frisco.… Read More Uniquely Romantic Lofts for Two that are Perfect for Valentine’s Day

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Where to Stay While Honeymooning in French Polynesia

We started planning our wedding and our honeymoon prior to COVID-19 pandemic. Originally, our plans was to take a small trip a few days after the wedding and a BIG trip to New Zealand later. The the COVID pandemic arrived and like many things our hopes on going to New Zealand were thwarted. Many countries, like New Zealand, had closed their borders to tourists. At that point we were stuck in a quandary and did not know what to do or where to start. Our Travel Agent, Rhonda, was such a huge help. Once we finally decided where we wanted to go, we just gave Rhonda our final budget and she did all the rest. She booked our hotel, transportation, excursions, meal plans and more! What is better, is she also was able to meet all our needs and desires and still come up a few hundred dollars under budget! When traveling, saving money is always a huge bonus!… Read More Where to Stay While Honeymooning in French Polynesia

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