During a recent trip to new york city I stayed the Renaissance Times Square.
Located on 7th avenue, this hotel is just steps away from many restaurants, shops and New York City’s number one attraction!
Here’s a quick walk through of our room. At 330 square feet this room was pretty spacious by New York standards. When you first enter the room there is a closet on the right that includes an ironing board, a luggage rack, safe and some room to hang your clothes.
The bathroom on the left came nicely decorated with a modern vanity sink, and marble counter top with dark wood accents. Our bathroom also had a shower with a full-sized tub, lighted mirror Aveda shampoos and conditioners and a hair dryer.
The main room had two comfy double beds with lots of pillows, a desk, flat screen television and chair and table. On the table between the beds there was a phone and an alarm clock.
On the desk there was a second phone, a generous work space, and some storage space for your clothes.
My room over looked 7th avenue and has a slight view of times square. Our view was a little under construction, but at least I wasn’t looking at a brick wall, which I’ve had in the past.
The room also came with a tiny coffee maker, extra coffee bags, tea, creams and sugars. There was also a mini bar, which came stocked with a variety of snacks and beverages.
I would definitely recommend the Renaissance Times Square to travelers looking for a clean, comfortable hotel close to all the sights. It is located close to the subway, and is central to many of the city’s popular attractions.
Planning to visit Florida this May? Walt Disney World Resort will be kicking off the “Coolest Summer Ever” with 24 hours of nonstop fun during a special event May 22-23 at the Magic Kingdom, hosted by Olaf!
Traditionally, Memorial Day weekend is the traditional start of family vacation time, and Walt Disney World Resort will launch into the season full force. The Magic Kingdom will be open 24 hours to guests from 6 a.m. to 6 a.m., Friday May 22 to Saturday, May 23. Guests will be invited to come in costume to show their Disney Side while a selection of favorite attractions, entertainment, special event merchandise, plus food and beverage are on tap all night long to celebrate the start of the “Coolest Summer Ever” at Walt Disney World Resort.
The around-the-clock celebration features Disney character greetings, dance parties and surprises into the wee hours of the night.
During the “Coolest Summer Ever,” with Olaf as the official host, Walt Disney World guests can get their cool on all summer long at four theme parks and two water parks.
Among the highlights:
Frozen Fun – “Frozen” Summer Fun LIVE will bring together Princess Anna, Queen Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf with citizens of Arendelle, all appearing daily in shows and experiences at Disneys Hollywood Studios, June 17-Sept. 7. Guests will find cool thrills this summer including a royal processional, a sing-along show, Frozen-themed treats and merchandise, plus a Frozen fireworks display above Hollywood Blvd.
Cool Thrill Rides – Guests will find thrills from mild to wild to out of this world in all four Walt Disney World theme parks. Dont-miss attractions include Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom; Test Track presented by Chevrolet and Soarin at Epcot; Expedition Everest at Disneys Animal Kingdom; Rock ‘n Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith and Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror at Disneys Hollywood Studios.
Star Wars Weekends – Guests at Disneys Hollywood Studios will find stars from another galaxy during Star Wars Weekends May 15-June 14.
New Restaurants and Shopping – Throughout the summer, new waterfront dining and boutique shops flow into the Downtown Disney shopping/dining/entertainment district as its transformation into Disney Springs continues.
Epcot Entertainment – New entertainment acts will appear throughout Epcot World Showcase, which also brings a fresh summery twist on a fan favorite, Voices of Liberty.
A Splash at Water Parks – A cool new deal doubles the fun at Disneys two iconic water parks – Disneys Typhoon Lagoon and Disneys Blizzard Beach. Purchase a one-day water park ticket and park-hop between the two water parks in the same day that both are open.
On the West Coast, Disneyland Resort will kick off the summer with a dynamic 24-hour event of its own, May 22-23, to launch the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Marking the 60th anniversary of the resort, the Diamond Celebration includes the premieres of three new nighttime spectaculars: “Disneyland Forever” fireworks, “Paint the Night” parade and “World of Color – Celebrate!”
The all-day/all-night revelry of the 24-hour party will include dancing and special character encounters at locations in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks, along with enchanting Diamond décor throughout the resort and the exciting shows and attractions that bring guests back year after year. The Disneyland Resort invites guests of all ages to kick off the summer travel season in Southern California, celebrating 60 years of magic at a resort that remains forever young.
As a mom who traveled a lot when my boys were little, one of the biggest concerns for me when we would arrive at the hotel was what type of bed they would be providing for my kids. Regardless of the hotel we were staying at a porter would often drop off a crib that looked like it had been used 500,000 times. And in reality it probably had been used thousands of times. I would bring my own sheets, but the plastic worn out mattresses always stressed me out. For this reason I was excited when I came across Naturalmat’s baby mattress topper.
Designed with locally sourced lambswool to increase your child’s comfort, this topper can also be rolled up and stored in your suitcase for travel. Place it under your sheet between the mattress and your baby, and you will ensure that they have a soft, clean space between them and their bed.
I like that it is thin so it travels easy and doesn’t add too much bulk to your baby’s bed.
There are a lot of exciting spectacular things on the horizon for Carnival Cruise Lines! Yesterday the line announced the details of their most innovative ship ever, Carnival Vista, debuting in spring 2016. The largest ship in the fleet, Carnival Vista will measure 133,500 tons, 1,055 feet long and have a guest capacity of 3,936 (based on two per cabin).
This ship will undoubtedly take cruising to a new level with the introduction of an exciting array of groundbreaking new features including: SkyRide, a breakthrough suspended open-air cycling experience; the world’s first IMAX® Theatre on a ship; an expanded water park featuring the colorful Kaleid-O-Slide, the line’s first raft-riding water tube slide; Seafood Shack, a delectable New England-inspired eatery; RedFrog Pub, including the line’s first onboard brewery, and other enhanced dining, bar and entertainment options; as well as new scenic and family-friendly accommodation types. Additionally, the ship’s inaugural Mediterranean itineraries will mark the line’s return to Europe. From the entertainment to the outdoor spaces, this ship is top to bottom different from anything we have seen from Carnival in the past. As well as all of the details of the new liner, Carnival released more than 50 renderings of the new features and spaces. Enjoy!
When it comes to outdoor attractions cruise lines tend to play it safe because guests often use most of these when the ship is at sea – and moving!
Carnival, however, will be creating some of the best and highest outdoor vistas ever offered on a cruise ship with the debut of their SkyRide, the cruise industry’s first pedal-powered open-air aerial attraction.
Adventurous riders can climb aboard hanging recumbent-like bikes to cycle their way around the 800-foot suspended track with panoramic views from 150 feet above the sea. Nearby will be SkyCourse, an exhilarating suspended ropes course. Both are part of the expanded outdoor activity park that also includes a new indoor sports hangout, The Clubhouse at SportSquare¸ featuring mini-bowling, ping-pong, arcade basketball, sports video gaming and more.
If you are cruising with your kids The Vista will feature the line’s largest WaterWorks water park. Kids and kids at heart will find a thrilling array of splash-tastic fun including Kaleid-O-Slide, the line’s first-ever water tube attraction. Riders will hop on inflatable one or two-person rafts taking them on a fun-filled 455-foot adventure of exhilarating twists and turns with stunning kaleidoscopic visual effects.
Carnival will be partnering with entertainment innovator IMAX® to bring the world’s most immersive cinematic experience to sea with the first-ever IMAX® Theatre on a ship. Guests will be able to take in the latest Hollywood blockbusters, IMAX classics and IMAX documentary content on a screen that’s three decks high. Next door at the Thrill Theater, moviegoers can enjoy a multi-dimensional special effects experience. Both are part of the Carnival Multiplex, a first at sea for film fans, complete with concession stand offering popcorn and movie snacks. The Warehouse, featuring a variety of video and arcade games, is located adjacent to the Carnival Multiplex.
If cruising is about the food for you the Vista definitely has you covered!
Featured on Carnival Vista and a first for the fleet will be the New England-inspired Seafood Shack, a casual indoor/outdoor dining venue near the Lido Marketplace eateries. This seafood-lovers’ paradise will feature a menu full of delicious, fresh favorites available for purchase, including lobster rolls, steamed lobster, fried shrimp, crab cakes, fried clams and more.
At the RedFrog Pub, Carnival will brew up great beer for good times in its first ever brewery. During each sailing two giant copper-topped glass kettles will create tasty ales and lagers that can be enjoyed on tap from the bar and through unique tabletop taps that allow guests to pour their own beer. The full bar will also offer an array of Caribbean-inspired cocktails, beers and rums. Indoor/outdoor seating, live music and brewing tours and tastings will also be offered in this fun venue.
Carnival is expanding the line’s popular Latin-infused Havana experience inside and out on Carnival Vista. Celebrating Cuba’s gloried past, Havana Bar serves traditional cocktails and bites during the day and transforms into a sizzling Latin dance club at night. The fun also extends outdoors with a new Havana Pool located aft and offering stunning views of the ocean, whirlpools and relaxation area, complete with colorful umbrellas, faux palm trees, thatched patio huts and comfy seating, perfect for soaking up the sun while enjoying a refreshing mojito.
Thanks to an expanded Lanai on Deck 5 guests can stroll or sit and enjoy a beverage at one of the many dining and bar venues that will now feature outdoor areas. The line will offer its first-ever outdoor seating options at specialty eateries including Fahrenheit 555, a classic American steakhouse, and Japanese-style Bonsai Sushi restaurant where diners will enjoy sea views as delicious as their meals.
Cherry on Top will be the sweetest spot at sea, with a new premium mixed-to-order custom ice cream creation bar, outdoor seating and more than 80 bulk candy options.
The ship’s main dining rooms, Reflections and Horizons, offer a tantalizing array of delicious menu items for guests who want to enjoy a full-service breakfast, lunch or dinner. The striking modern interiors created by award-winning designer BigTime Design Studios offer decidedly different décor than previous Carnival ships. The Horizons dining room will also feature a unique bar that’s the perfect spot for meeting friends and enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail or an after-meal aperitif.
The beautiful Vista Atrium will set a festive mood with its giant, multi-deck-high centerpiece that will delight guests with its LED screens and changing visuals to create the right atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to welcome guests boarding the ship, meet friends at the bar or enjoy live entertainment and dancing.
The cabins on the Vista aren’t just spacious, but now there will an area of the ship that will be just for families. Located within a new dedicated family zone on Deck 2, the new Family Harbor accommodations offer an array of deluxe ocean-view, balcony and interior staterooms that accommodate up to five family members. Parents and kids will have even more room to relax at the new, exclusive Family Harbor Lounge, a secluded space designed as the ultimate family hang out with large-screen TVs, games and complimentary breakfast and snacks. A special family concierge desk will be available here to assist families in making this their best vacation ever.
In addition they have created a tropics-inspired level of cabins called Havana Cabanas that will feature accommodations with private outdoor patios – complete with lounge chairs and hammock – that face the expanded Lanai ocean-air outdoor promenade and offer magnificent sea views in addition to easy access to the Havana Bar and Pool.
How awesome is that balcony?
“Carnival Vista celebrates the connection to the oceans on which we sail and gives our guests amazing seascapes around every corner and more ways to enjoy every moment of sun and fun during their cruise vacation,” said Mark Tamis, Carnival’s senior vice president of guest operations. “From our exhilarating new high-altitude SkyRide to the Kaleid-O-Slide water tube slide to our IMAX anchored Carnival Multiplex to the multitude of dining and bar options, we are thrilled to share the details about our largest and most innovative ship with our guests while providing our valued travel agent partners with an exciting new option to offer to their clients.”
Vacations are for relaxing and the Carnival Vista will come equipped with a luxurious two-level Cloud 9 Spa. Some of the chill-worthy amenities, include a thalassotherapy pool, four steam chambers, the line’s first infrared sauna and hamam, and special “experience showers” that provide a soothing fragrance element, along with a high-tech indoor cycling studio. Guests can get away from it all at the adults-only Serenity retreat, where there’s breathtaking views, tranquility and even more lounging options to relax including the line’s first outdoor massage huts.
For kids Carnival will be packing in more fun day and night! The indoor/outdoor Camp Ocean for children under age 12 is a dedicated undersea-themed play space with more than 200 fun and educational ocean-inspired activities. Carnival Vista will be the second ship in the fleet to feature Dr. Seuss Bookville, a special reading and play space inspired by the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss. Here kids and their families can read beloved Dr. Seuss books, make arts and crafts and stretch their imagination with toys and games. Also part of the line’s Seuss at Sea program, Carnival Vista guests can enjoy Green Eggs and Ham with The Cat in the Hat and Friends character breakfast, the Seuss-a-palooza Story Time and Parade and more.
Carnival Vista will also introduce four new games at the family-centric HASBRO the Game Show, as well as special family-friendly comedy performances at Punchliner Comedy Club presented by George Lopez.
The new vessel will debut May 1, 2016, with a 13-day cruise departing from Trieste, Italy — the first European voyage for Carnival in three years. A variety of spectacular Mediterranean itineraries will be offered with port calls throughout Italy, France, Spain, Croatia and Turkey, as well as several new destinations for Carnival such as Crete (Heraklion), and Corfu, Greece; Valletta, Malta; Palermo, Sicily; Cagliari, Sardinia; and Gibraltar. On October 21, 2016, Carnival Vista will embark on a special 13-day transatlantic crossing and arrive in New York November 3, 2016, then operate a series of voyages from the Big Apple. Carnival Vista’s European cruises are currently available for reservations. Additional information on the New York departures will be available next month.
Universal Orlando Resorts is getting ready to kick Mardi Gras off in style with a series 16 concerts featuring some of the biggest names in music and their legendary Bayou bash!
On select nights Feb. 7 through April 18, guests will experience a family-friendly version of the Nawlins-inspired festival at Universal Studios Florida. Guests can top off their day in the theme parks with delicious Cajun cuisine, an awe-inspiring parade and a live concert.
This years exhilarating concert lineup features an array of talent with something for everyone to enjoy. Headliners include English pop sensation Jessie J, whos known for her hits Price Tag and Bang Bang, American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson, who has sold more than 20 million albums worldwide, and reggaeton superstar Yandel, who has had three songs reach the Top 10 Billboards Hot Latin Songs Chart and a No. 1 album on the Top Latin Albums chart. Also performing is R&B artist Trey Songz, award-winning American country group The Band Perry, and the rock group American Authors, whose single Best Day of My Life was named the No.1 most played song in 2014 on Adult Pop Radio. For the complete line-up, see below.
Guests will also have the opportunity to catch handfuls of colorful beads during this years rockin parade. The 12 exquisitely detailed Mardi Gras floats were engineered by Blaine Kern Artists, the same company that has been hand-crafting floats for the iconic New Orleans celebration since 1947. Plus, guests can visit Universal Studios Floridas very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine including Gumbo and New Orleans infamous Beignets, prepared fresh and hot. Guests will also get a chance to see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street.
The excitement of Universal Orlandos Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida. Florida Residents get up to three months free on any 2-park Annual Pass with a Coca-Cola UPC code or promo code on specially marked packages of Coca-Cola or cups from participating Wendys. Floridians can also book a special vacation package including the all-new Cabana Bay Beach Resort starting at $135 per adult, per night, tax inclusive that includes 2-night on-site hotel accommodations, Florida Resident 2-day Park-to-Park ticket, Early Park Admission and more. For more information on these special offers and Mardi Gras, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.
It sounds like the new year will bring lots of exciting upgrades, openings and events at Walt Disney World Resort. We have the details on some of the new experiences you can look forward to if you are visiting Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida in the coming months!
As part of a sweeping re-imagining, Disney’s Polynesian Resort has returned to its original, 1971 opening day name: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. But that’s not the only news awaiting guests in 2015. Guests will be treated to new food and beverage experiences including Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto – a restaurant based on the popular themed lounge at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Trader Sam’s will welcome explorers to a mystical and tropical oasis featuring a lounge area with handcrafted tiki cocktails served in souvenir mugs, paired with Polynesia-inspired small plates. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort guests will also be excited to learn that the resort now has a Pineapple Lanai kiosk, which serves the world-famous Dole Whip soft serve and floats, and the Capt. Cook’s quick-service restaurant has a new menu.
There is also a new children’s activity center called Club Disney that welcomes guests ages 3-12 to play dress-up, create crafts and engage in games, storytelling or movie nights. Kids will also love that the resort will be completing the renovation on the pool area, to include a new children’s water play area and an enlarged deck for poolside seating.
In addition, Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows will feature 20 Disney Vacation Club bungalows on Seven Seas Lagoon and 360 Deluxe Studios. The Disney Vacation Club Bungalows will be the first of this type of accommodation at Disney, sleep up to eight guests, and feature a plunge pool where guests can enjoy views of fireworks over Magic Kingdom and Seven Seas Lagoon. This resort will also be the first to have connecting Deluxe Studios that will sleep up to five guests and have kitchenettes and enhanced storage space for convenience and comfort. The first phase of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is scheduled to open in 2015.
The new year brings a great new dining experience to Walt Disney World Resort’s Boardwalk Resort. The Trattoria al Forno features Italian cuisine with authentic ingredients and recipes from Italy’s various regions. The new restaurant showcases Old World techniques, including handcrafted mozzarella made daily, a variety of Neopolitan-style pizzas baked in wood-burning ovens, and other classic favorites such as risotto, baked lasagna, chicken Parmigiana with tagliatelle pasta and more. Trattoria al Forno offers an extensive wine list with more than 60 offerings by the bottle and more than 25 wines by the glass. Desserts such as tiramisu and gelatos round out the menu. Trattoria al Forno is located on Crescent Lake near Epcot in the heart of property.
Imagine the colors, scents, savory tastes and boundless activity of a village marketplace in Africa. That sensory scene is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom with a spring 2015 opening planned for Africa Marketplace – a new shopping and dining option for park-goers in Harambe, the village anchoring the Africa section of the park. One highlight of the new space will be Harambe Marketplace, a new quick-service food and beverage location offering street-inspired dishes from walk-up windows. Guests will find plenty of shady places to relax and eat. For their convenience, the new space also will open up a new pathway from Africa to Bradley Falls and the Asia section of the park. Together with the new Harambe Theatre housing “The Festival of the Lion King,” the addition of Africa Marketplace will double the size of the original Harambe Village. Paired with previously-announced projects throughout the park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is undergoing the largest expansion in its history.
Sports fans will get an up close and personal look at some of the nation’s top pro soccer teams during the Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic Feb. 1, 2015 – March 1, 2015 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Now in its sixth year, the four-week soccer event is designed to boost interest in soccer throughout Central Florida and establish the area as a prime training and competition destination for professional soccer clubs. The event traditionally features eight pro teams – including six Major League Soccer squads – competing in 16 games. In 2014, the Columbus Crew defeated the defending MLS Cup Champions, Sporting Kansas City, to earn win the Disney Pro Soccer Classic title. After the tournament schedule is released, tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster by visiting ticketmaster.com or calling (800) 754-3000 or through the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex box office.
Grab your crowns and tutus because the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend will take place Feb. 19-22, 2015 at Walt Disney World Resort. There are races for all ages and levels, including runDisney Kids Races. For those who want more Disney offers the Glass Slipper Challenge, which includes a 19.3-mile adventure over two days – the Disney Enchanted 10K on Saturday followed by the Disney Princess Half Marathon on Sunday. Runners who complete the Princess Half Marathon in February and the Tinker Bell Half Marathon presented by PANDORA Jewelry in May at Disneyland Resort will earn a special pink version of the runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge Medal. For an additional challenge and cruise vacation, runners who immediately follow the Princess Half Marathon Weekend race with a Disney cruise departing Monday, Feb. 23, can run the Castaway Cay 5K on Disney’s private island in the Bahamas to earn a specially designed Disney Castaway Cay Challenge Finisher Medal. For more information, guests may visit www.runDisney.com.
Parents needing to get a caffeine fix will be happy to know that Starbucks will be opening a location at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Feb. 2015. The new store, The Trolley Car Café, will be themed to a classic trolley car along Hollywood Boulevard and offer a unique experience for coffee lovers visiting the park. Guests to the store also will be able to enjoy Disney baked goods and Starbucks’ La Boulange pastry items at the store. The Trolley Car Café will be the fourth location serving Starbucks products at Walt Disney World Resort. Locations are already open at Magic Kingdom and Epcot, as well as at Downtown Disney.
In 2015, Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort continues its multi-year transformation into Disney Springs, a unique and vibrant shopping/dining/entertainment destination to be set amid beautiful open-air promenades, meandering springs and waterfront charm.
The Landing is the first phase of Disney Springs and will be home to unique and memorable dining experiences such as STK (opening in 2015), Morimoto Asia (opening summer 2015) and The BOATHOUSE (opening spring 2015), plus a number of still-to-be-announced innovative restaurants and boutique shops.
Anchored by a signature water tower and grand entry, Disney Springs will boast four interconnected outdoor neighborhoods and will be home to everything from shopping boutiques to flagship stores to great new restaurants and entertainment venues. With a planned completion in 2016, Disney Springs expects to double the number of venues to more than 150.
Spring will bloom in a big way with bountiful blossoms, colorful Disney topiaries, gardening seminars and flavors of the season when the 22nd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival runs March 4 to May 17, 2015, at Walt Disney World Resort.
Dozens of Disney character topiaries, from Chip and Dale to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will rule the festival kingdom in the park’s Future World and World Showcase, and popular Outdoor Kitchens will return with refreshing beverages and tantalizing tastes from the garden and grill.
Home and garden seminars, children’s play gardens and other popular festival features will return for the 75-day event. At the Festival Center, interactive gardening workshops will set the stage for outdoor do-it-yourself inspiration, and guest speakers will cover the latest in outdoor trends and home and garden topics.
Guests can try new food and beverage tastes from Outdoor Kitchen menus and pose for selfies among whimsical topiaries, multiple themed gardens and children’s play areas. Disney-crafted “flower towers,” herb gardens and beds of multi-colored blooms will add to the floral splendor of the park’s landscape. On the park’s Future World lakes, more than 200 mini-gardens will be set afloat.
Hundreds of butterflies of several species will dazzle guests at the festival’s screened butterfly house. As the sun begins to set, illuminated gardens will brighten the evening and cast a magical glow across the park.
For more information about the 22nd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639). As the festival nears, more details will be available at epcotinspring.com. Festival events are included in regular Epcot admission.
The Force returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 15, 2015 as Star Wars Weekends combines the fun and adventure of the Star Wars film franchise with the magic of Disney Parks.
The 2015 event will feature Star Wars characters roaming the theme park for meet-and-greet opportunities, star conversations with Star Wars celebrities, a Star Wars motorcade through the park, interactive activities, exclusive merchandise and more. Star Wars Weekends will be held every weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) from May 15-June 14:
Weekend I: May 15-17, 2015 Weekend II: May 22-24, 2015 Weekend III: May 29-31, 2015 Weekend IV: June 5-7, 2015 Weekend V: June 12-14, 2015
If you are traveling to Florida this year parents should be aware of a new car seat law that went into effect on January 1st. To support this and help parents meet requirements of a new state law the Florida AAA announced that it would be giving away free child booster seats every Friday in January, while supplies last. Children must be at least 4 years old and weigh 40 pounds or more to qualify and must be present to receive the seat. Appointments are required so parents/caregivers who are interested should call their local AAA office for more information.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2015, every motor vehicle operator in Florida will be required to use a crash-tested, federally approved child restraint device for children until age 6.
You don’t have to be a AAA member to get one a seat and your child does not need to be present.
The offer is open to parents of children between 4 and 8 years old who are 30 to 110 pounds and 40 to 57 inches tall.
Previously only children 3 and under were required to be in be in child restraint seats or booster. Now the new law requires children 6 and younger to be in child restraint seat for safety.
Each year, an average of 1,500 children die and 175,000 are injured in car crashes, which makes motor vehicle crashes a leading cause of death for children, according to the Auto Club Group Traffic Safety Foundation.
Generally the Car Seat Guidelines for parents are:
Rear-Facing Seat – Birth until age 2 or when child reaches the upper height or weight limit of seat (typically around 35 pounds).
Forward-Facing Seat – Your child should have a forward-facing seat with a harness until he or she reaches the manufacturer’s upper height or weight limit of the seat (typically 40-65 pounds).
Belt-Positioning Booster Seat – Protect your child with this seat until he or she is at least 4’9’’ (typically 8-12 years of age). Proper positioning of your car’s safety belt system is crucial in preventing or minimizing injury in case of a crash.
Lap and Shoulder Belts – Be sure the lap belt lies across the hips and the shoulder belt across the center of the shoulder and chest. Your child’s legs should bend comfortably at the seat’s edge, with his or her back resting flat against the back of the seat. Once the safety belt fits properly without a booster, your child no longer needs a special seat. All children under 13 should sit in the back seat.
Families looking to cruise in 2015 will be excited to check out Holland America’s new ReadySetSail promotion that enables guests to take advantage of special offers, including an onboard spending credit for suite guests that can be put toward a variety of shipboard experiences. ReadySetSail offers are available on select 2015 summer sailings and feature savings for multiple destinations, so guests are encouraged to book early for the best stateroom selection.
Cruisers who book cruises or an Alaska Land+Sea Journey (offers on cruise portion only) with the ReadySetSail promotion will receive a complimentary stateroom upgrade from an interior to ocean-view or ocean-view to verandah stateroom, up to 10 percent savings on select shore excursions when booked before March 15, 2015, free or reduced third and fourth fares, and a reduction of 50 percent off the normal deposit rate. With complimentary upgrades, guests can sail in an ocean-view stateroom for the price of an interior or receive a free upgrade to a verandah when purchasing an ocean-view. Suite bookings receive a $300 onboard spending credit per stateroom ($150 per person), a complimentary three-bottle Wine Navigator Package and two free soda cards per stateroom in addition to the other ReadySetSail offers.
“This is a great time of year to introduce some of our best promotions when people are thinking about making their summer plans, and ReadySetSail features exceptional savings that we know will entice travelers to book a Holland America Line cruise,” said Orlando Ashford, president for Holland America Line. “It’s hard to beat the value of a cruise vacation, and ReadySetSail makes it even more inviting to take a dream holiday with family and friends.”
Cruise destinations featured in the ReadySetSail promotion include Alaska cruises and Land+Sea Journeys, Bermuda, Canada/New England and Europe.
Families reap vacation benefits from ReadySetSail with free or reduced third and fourth fares. With ReadySetSail, travelers also will enjoy fun and interesting experiences for the whole family with select summer shore excursion adventures that can be booked before March 15, 2015, at up to 10 percent off. These savings provide the perfect opportunity to visit some of the most recognizable monuments, photograph stunning scenic landscapes and embark on a memorable adventure.
By taking advantage of the 50 percent reduced deposit offer, guests will have more flexibility and time before paying the final deposit on their cruise or Alaska Land+Sea Journey. And a complimentary full category upgrade makes it possible to book a lower-fare cabin and cruise in a higher category.
Suite guests can use their onboard credit in many different way including a treatment at the Greenhouse Spa and Salon, gift shop purchases, shore excursions, beverages or a dinner at an alternative venue such as the Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, An Evening at Le Cirque or Tamarind.
Even though we haven’t started 2015, Disney Cruise Line is always planning their 2016 adventures! Families who have been cruising with the line will be happy to know that there are some exciting changes in store for them including some new ports! New for 2016 DCL will add Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Martinique into the lineup of favorite tropical itineraries.
From the warm Caribbean culture of Tortola, capital of the British Virgin Islands, to the exquisite French island of Martinique, these destinations provide Disney Cruise Line guests the chance to relax on pristine beaches, discover natural wonders and indulge in local shopping and cuisine.
Port Canaveral to Eastern Caribbean, including Tortola
In 2016, the Disney Fantasy and Disney Magic will sail from Port Canaveral, Fla. on a seven-night itinerary to the Eastern Caribbean, including a call at Tortola and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.
Tortola is a beautiful, lush island that features everything from tranquil beaches and stunning scenery to exhilarating activities and authentic Caribbean fare. With a variety of experiences for the family to share together, Disney Cruise Line guests will create memories in Tortola while swimming with dolphins, exploring centuries-old ruins, sampling local spices on Main Street and reveling in the natural beauty of Sage Mountain National Park.
Both ships will depart Port Canaveral and sail to Tortola, St. Thomas, and Castaway Cay.
The Disney Fantasy will offer the itinerary Jan. 2, 16, 30; Feb. 13, 27; March 12, 26; April 9, 23. Disney Magic will sail the itinerary April 3, 17
Rates start at $1,120 per person for seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.
San Juan to Southern Caribbean, including Martinique
In January, 2016 the Disney Wonder will sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico offering four seven-night cruises to the Southern Caribbean, including a stop in Martinique.
Known as the “Flower of the Caribbean,” Martinique offers a unique island experience complete with breathtaking natural beauty and cosmopolitan culture of French and Creole influence. Nature-lovers will delight in lush rainforests, rushing waterfalls and volcanic landmarks, while guests looking for a more upscale experience will savor superb French cuisine and superlative shopping.
The Disney Wonder will depart San Juan; Barbados and sail toGrenada,Martinique,Antigua andSt. Kitts on Jan. 10, 17, 24, 31, 2016.
Rates start at $980 per person for seven-night cruises from San Juan for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.
Port Canaveral and Miami to the Bahamas and Caribbean
In 2016, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Port Canaveral and Miami to the Bahamas and Caribbean on a variety of itineraries. All of these cruises include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
From Port Canaveral, rates start at $375 per person for three-night cruises, $500 per person for four-night cruises and $1,120 per person for seven-night cruises for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.
From Miami, rates start at $352 per person for four-night cruises and $440 per person for five-night cruises for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.
Bookings for 2016 cruises will open to the public on Oct. 30, 2014. Please visit Disney Cruise Lines for more information!
The holidays are right around the corner and Disney Cruiselines has a lot in store for cruisers planning to sail on one of their 4 ships!
Starting early November, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to each ship during Very Merrytime Cruises, with traditional “turkey day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas. But the best part might just be relaxing on deck instead of shoveling snow.
During these voyages through the new year, special stem-to-stern holiday events include:
New for 2014 there will be a “Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” in the atrium lobby on the first night of the cruise, where Disney characters lead holiday carols and the lighting of the glittering, three-deck-tall tree.
New for 2014 DCL will hold a “Winter Wonderland Ball” in the atrium lobby, where guests celebrate the arrival of the guests of honor—Santa and Mrs. Claus—when a seemingly simple snowman is magically transformed into jolly old Saint Nick himself. This evening of glamour and holiday enchantment is made complete when a very special princess joins the party and causes a flurry of “frozen” fun as a magical snowfall overtakes the atrium.
For the first time there will be Dickens-inspired characters and carolers carry the spirit of the holidays throughout the ship while singing holiday classics, sometimes with the help of favorite Disney friends.
Family holiday activities including building gingerbread houses and meeting Santa Claus.
Youth holiday crafts such as decorating stockings and gingerbread men cookies, making holiday cards and creating holiday animation cells.
Holiday storytellers sharing tales of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, plus a story just for Disney Cruise Line guests about the magical feeling of the holidays on a ship.
“Deck the Deck Holiday Party,” a tropical celebration with Disney friends leading games such as hula hooping and limbo under oversized candy canes, along with dances for the whole family like the “Yuletide Slide” and a conga line around the pool.
“Til We Meet Again” features a special holiday edition of Disney Cruise Line’s cheerful farewell on the final night of each cruise with beloved Disney characters and the ship’s crew in an engaging musical finale led by Mickey Mouse.
On Thanksgiving Day, guests will enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving Day feast, that will include visits from Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire, and a special turkey towel animal in their stateroom upon turndown. The big Thanksgiving NFL football games will be broadcast live on the ships’ outdoor, jumbo LED screen—Funnel Vision—located near the family pool.
On Christmas morning Santa Claus and his elves will have a surprise for all the kids at the atrium lobby tree. Guests will also enjoy caroling from the crew choir plus a special musical performance from the children and a traditional Christmas Dinner will be served that night in the dining rooms.
Christmas services will be held on Christmas Day with a midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Hanukkah services will be held each day, Dec. 16 to Dec. 24.
When the ships stop at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, during the holidays, the celebration continues with “snow flurries,” a decked-out Christmas tree, Disney character meet-and-greets and holiday island music.
For an extra sprinkle of holiday joy, mini Christmas trees decorated with ornaments, red berries, mini carnations and a bow topper, in addition to special holiday-themed gift packages and treat baskets, are available for purchase prior to the voyages for stateroom delivery. Plus, during the holiday cruises, Disney Cruise Line’s holiday merchandise collection, along with the ever-popular Disney Cruise Line ornaments, will be available onboard in the gift shops.
To ring in 2015, voyages include a special New Year’s Eve party, complete with music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes and a midnight countdown.
To celebrate the holidays, the Disney Magic sails seven-night Western Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 9 to Dec. 28; the Disney Wonder sails four- and five-night Bahamian and Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 9 to Dec. 30; the Disney Dream sails three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing Nov. 10 to Dec. 29; and the Disney Fantasy sails seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 8 to Dec. 27.
Located on 7th avenue, this hotel is just steps away from many restaurants, shops and New York City’s number one attraction!
Here’s a quick walk through of our room. At 330 square feet this room was pretty spacious by New York standards. When you first enter the room there is a closet on the right that includes an ironing board, a luggage rack, safe and some room to hang your clothes.
The bathroom on the left came nicely decorated with a modern vanity sink, and marble counter top with dark wood accents. Our bathroom also had a shower with a full-sized tub, lighted mirror Aveda shampoos and conditioners and a hair dryer.
The main room had two comfy double beds with lots of pillows, a desk, flat screen television and chair and table. On the table between the beds there was a phone and an alarm clock.
On the desk there was a second phone, a generous work space, and some storage space for your clothes.
My room over looked 7th avenue and has a slight view of times square. Our view was a little under construction, but at least I wasn’t looking at a brick wall, which I’ve had in the past.
The room also came with a tiny coffee maker, extra coffee bags, tea, creams and sugars. There was also a mini bar, which came stocked with a variety of snacks and beverages.
I would definitely recommend the Renaissance Times Square to travelers looking for a clean, comfortable hotel close to all the sights. It is located close to the subway, and is central to many of the city’s popular attractions.
