“We know traveling as a family can be cumbersome, and families look for products that simplify the experience,” said Joyce Kara, product manager at Britax. “That’s why we designed the Britax Car Seat Travel Cart with an easy attachment system and durable, smooth-ride design features to make traveling together safer and more manageable than ever before.”The Britax Car Seat Travel Cart’s telescopic, two-position handle allows short and tall users to tote car seats comfortably. A raised platform protects the car seat from contacting the ground while stationary and allows the travel cart to free-stand while attaching the car seat. No assembly required.
Britax Introduces Car Seat Travel Cart!
Kelty Outfits the Whole Family for Camping Adventures
Daytripping in Ontario ~ The Toronto Zoo
Slow Down on the Appalachian Trail
Traveling Asia with Kids – China
- Tiananmen Square – Tiananmen Square is a vast area, truly in the heart of Beijing. Here the modern era of China literally intersects the ancient past – the square was constructed in between the Imperial Palace to the north and Temple of Heaven to the south. Walking around Tiananmen Square with kids, don’t be surprised if people come up and want to practice their English, or have their picture taken with your children. Western kids are still a novelty, and people are very interested.
- Imperial Palace (The Forbidden City) – For centuries, the Forbidden City was the palace for the Ming and Qing emperors. The Imperial Palace, begun during the reign of the third Ming emperor in 1406, was a complex of palaces and halls, nearly 10,000 rooms, including workshops where exquisite artworks were produced. For nearly 500 years this mysterious and secret city was a world unto itself for the emperors and their families. Today, as kids blithely walk through the gates of the Imperial Palace, just remember that a century ago, for outsiders to get close to even the Imperial Walls was – forbidden.
- The Great Wall – The Great Wall is one of new seven wonders of the world, and nothing can prepare you for the heady sensation of actually looking at the Great Wall as it winds through miles of steep hills and rugged countryside. Standing on the ramparts, kids can easily imagine they’re defending against the Mongol hordes. Traveling to the Great Wall is a truly unforgettable experience for everyone in the family, and you’ll want to spend the whole day.
- The Oriental Pearl TV Tower – The most recognizable landmark of the modern Shanghai skyline is the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. It rises 1,500 feet (457 meters) on the Huangpu’s east bank, in Shanghai’s newest district of Pudong. The Oriental Pearl TV Tower holds up three metallic spheres that are supposed to resemble jewels.
- Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe – This is a spectacular show for kids, dazzling color, magic effects, juggling, balancing acts, and amazing, “pretzel-like” acrobatics. Shows are every evening at the Shanghai Center Theatre.
- Zhujiajiao – Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town in the western side of Shanghai. Chinese traditional water towns are notorious for their very old houses lined up along canals and the bridges criss-crossing them. Water towns sprung up along the many waterways as these have always been historically important means of communication and supplies distribution. Zhujiajiao is about 1,700 years old. Here, residents strive to maintain their traditional custom and heritage. The town is relatively peaceful and quiet, a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
Traveling Asia with Kids – Singapore
- Sentosa Island- This previously deserted tropical island is now Singapore’s playground and is dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure. Even getting there is fun – no need to sit in a taxi in an endless traffic jam, you can hop aboard a cable car, which also offers fantastic views of the city. Once on Sentosa, kids can go to a butterfly park, zip over the rain forest canopy, meet pink dolphins, go on theme park rides, or swim at the beach. Spend the day, and stay on until evening to see the Song of the Sea or Crane Dance shows.
- Jurong Bird Park – This excellent bird park is a “must see,” for kids, with a 100 different species of birds from Southeast Asia. You can see the birds up close in 24 different aviaries, and ride through the park on a monorail. Bird shows feature flamingoes, macaws and cockatoos.
- Singapore Botanic Gardens – Founded by Sir Stamford Raffles, an explorer and botanist, these historic gardens are much more than collections of plants. Be sure to visit at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, an adventure zone with tree house, suspension bridge and water play area (bring swimsuits or a change of clothing. Older kids will enjoy imaginative displays on topics such as local spices used in everyday foods and how plants are used to make music. Check out the ancient tree struck by lightning, a powerful example of the forces of nature.
- Night Safari – Kids and adults alike will love Singapore’s Night Safari, which takes visitors on a tram ride through a park containing only nocturnal animals unfettered by cages, roaming in their natural habitats. Travel through rainforest, savannah and jungle and spot a range of exotic creatures, 29% of which are threatened species that live by night.
- Science Centre – Singapore’s Science Centre is a museum the kids will actually love. With fourteen galleries over 20,000 square feet, the Science Centre is jam-packed with interactive exhibits so that the kids can get really hands-on.
- Snow City – An indoor snow centre is something of a novelty in a country that experiences hot, sticky weather 365 days of the year, and it is therefore a great way to escape the heat. The adventurous can give snow tubing, skiing or snowboarding a go, whilst small children and those who prefer not to hurtle down a steep slope can explore an igloo and have a snowball fight in the play area.
Traveling Asia with Kids – Hong Kong
- Ocean Park – Ocean Park, one of the largest leisure parks in Southeast Asia, tops the agenda. Here the children can marvel at the two giant pandas, An An and Jia Jia. Ocean Park is Hong Kong’s premier theme park and it is a family favorite, whose mix of exciting rides and educational seaworld exhibits, mean it has something for everybody.
- Hong Kong Science Museum – Learning is so much fun at the Hong Kong Science Museum, where 500 interesting hands-on exhibits offer insights into a wide range of science-related themes. The exhibition covers various areas of science and technology, including robotics, transportation, virtual reality and more.
- Pink Dolphin Cruise – Take a cruise to look for the much endangered pink dolphins in the waters around Lantau Island. The pink dolphins (they really are pink) only live in the waters around Hong Kong and their existence is threatened by boat traffic and polluted waters.
- Victoria Peak – “The Peak” and the “Peak Tram” are also some of Hong Kong’s classics. Hong Kong Island’s highest point is at Victoria Peak which overlooks the harbor and is home to some of the top real estate in the planet. The fun way to get there is of course with the Peak Tram, which is pulled by a single steel cable up the steep slope and ends the ride at the Peak Tower. The Peak Tower, in contrast to the century-old Peak Tram, is a new seven-story structure, complete with viewing platforms, restaurants and shops. The open-air viewing terrace with the coin-operated binoculars is on level 5. There is also a Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum on level 4 which the kids might find interesting.
- The Giant Buddha – Tian Tan Buddha in Lantau Island is made of bronze and at 34 meters or 112 feet, one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. Getting there is half the fun, the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car will whisk you in 25 minutes up to the plateau where Big Buddha sits. The cable car ride gives you great views of the islands, the airport and as far as the South China Sea. Then it’s a hike to get to the foot of Tian Tan, all 260 steps lead up to the podium and the sweeping views from here are worth the climb. If everyone is up to it, the 4 mile path down to Tung Chung is a nice walk and you pass some small monasteries on the way.
- Hong Kong Disneyland – is a smaller version of its American counterparts, but as all things Disney, still magical, enchanting. If you are a Disney fanatic, a day at Hong Kong Disneyland is a must. And if you are familiar with the other parks, you will find a similar layout in the structure and also in the way things operate. Fantasyland, Adventureland and Tomorrowland all branch out from Main Street, for popular rides there is the fast-pass, and not to be forgotten, the afternoon parade and the fireworks at closing are all part of the Hong Kong Disney experience.
- Snoopy’s World – Lovers of the cuddliest beagle will adore Snoopy’s World. Split into six different “fun zones”, this magical world contains a canoe ride, a baseball dugout, a big yellow American school bus as well as 60 popular Peanuts figures. The amazing giant Snoopy that sits reclining on top of his famous doghouse is the largest outdoor model Snoopy in the world. Regular live shows.
- Symphony of Lights – Forget the latest Star Wars flick, and see the real deal with the world’s biggest laser and light show. The show starts every night at 8pm on the waterfront and as a bonus – it’s FREE!
- Ride the ferries – The green and white Star Ferry has been in operation for over a hundred years, chugging back and forth between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. The trip doesn’t take long, but you get a great view of the harbor, junks, hydrofoils, sampans, and barges. You can also pick up a ferry to go to Lantau, Lamma or Cheung Chau Islands.
- Try Fun Food – Dim Sum restaurants in Hong Kong are fun food for kids. You can stop into Dim Sum restaurants at all hours. It is invariably busy, noisy and full of families. After you’ve sat down at a big round table, wait for ladies to come around wheeling carts with different dishes. As they come by, point at dishes you want. The ladies pluck the food off the cart and plunk it down on your table. Keep requesting dishes until you’re stuffed!
Travel + Leisure Names Their Top Picks For US & Canadian Family Hotels
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Orlando (95.72) – From the unbelievably gorgeous thatched roof to the gazelles that adorn the balconies, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a beautiful resort that feels like it was dropped in the middle of a game reserve. Besides the array of animals outside your balcony the family friendly amenities include the nicely heated walk in pool, Simba’s Clubhouse kids’ club(for kids aged 4 to 12) and nightime storytime.
- Sanderling Resort & Spa, Duck, North Carolina (94.44) – Situated between the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound, The Sanderling Resort and Spa is a beautiful hotel that offers something for the whole family.
- Beaver Creek Lodge, Beaver Creek (93.85) – This luxury Colorado ski resort offers year round excitement and activities. Perfect for families, each room has a sofa, fireplace, and kitchenette.
- Eliot Hotel, Boston (93.75) – This boutique hotel has been owned and operated by the same ‘clan’ for more than 50 years. It is uniquely kid-friendly; teenagers stay for free, and small travelers are treated to rubber duckies and other bath toys. Plus, they allow pets and even offer pet-sitting services.
- Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole, Wyoming (93.64) – This year-round resort offers childproofed rooms (upon request). Children 18 years old and under stay free in their parents’ room or suite and nanny service or babysitting services are available upon request.
- Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, Beaver Creek, Colorado (93.48) – This year-round destination, which is located in the heart of the majestic Rocky Mountains, offers 180 guest rooms and suites that are decked out in Colorado rustic, with custom millwork and plenty of wood, while the marble bathrooms all have soaking tubs. In the Winter it’s a hot family ski destination. Come Summer, it is the perfect location to hike, bike, golf and lounging poolside.
- Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, Jackson Hole (93.33) – Located less than one mile from entrance to Grand Teton and 60 miles south Yellowstone National Parks, Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, offers many family friendly amenities. Select rooms include conveniences like fully-equipped kitchens, DVD players, in-room movies, games, and music, as well as spectacular views of Teton Village
- Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Orlando (93.21) – Famous for their attention to detail, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge looks like a lodge set in the Colorado Mountains. But instead it sits just a ferry away from Disney World’s famed Magic Kingdom. Families can relax by one of their 2 pools or on a white-sand beach, treat themselves to a family-style barbeque at the all-you-can-eat at Whispering Canyon Café, or enjoy Chip ‘n Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-long.
- Sagamore Resort, Adirondacks, New York (93.10) – Located on Lake George, the Sagamore has been extending hospitality to visitors to Bolton Landing for over one hundred years. After your family is finished exploring the trails and playing in the water, your kids can play in the 10,000 square feet of indoor entertainment complex. This thoughtfully planned out space includes Sagamore Field (indoor wiffle ball), Nintendo Wii Stations, 2-half court basketball courts, billiards, foosball, an interactive toddler area, board games and the Sagamore Mini Golf Course.
- Grand Wailea, Maui (93.09) -Located in Wailea Maui, this beautiful resort features something for everyone. Aside from the beautiful beach and 2,000-foot-long pool, the Grand Wailea has a the 20,000-square-foot facility which is designed to accommodate both children and their parents. Kids will learn to make local crafts, play ancient island games, listen to grand storytelling or relax in the movie theater.
Bronx Zoo Celebrates Summer with a LEGO ‘Zoofari’
“We stack up bins and bins of different colors and different-size bricks. To sit and glue them together is a lot of fun. They actually give me money for this!”Visitors to the zoo who also want to experience the LEGO safari can pick a Zoofari passport at the entrance and go through six stamping stations and a number of learning activites while they encounter the animals like the flamingos in a pool of water or the penguins marching through the zoo center.
“We do model sizes of things you can hold in your hand to a 21-foot great white shark [not on display] and everything in between,” says Steve proudly.Visitors also have lots of bragging photo opportunities where they can take pictures with their head inside a caricature lion’s mouth or pose with a bear holding a fishing rod. The making of the animals brick by brick involved a dozen builders who congregated at LEGO’s U.S. headquarters in Enfield, Conn. In a month the experts had created all the creatures by hand.
“It was pretty wild in the studio the past couple of weeks,” laughs Gerling, “but we have a great design process.”He elaborates saying that they began with a computer generated image and posed it. The posed CG model was then scaled to life size and the image converted into LEGO design program that converted the image into a virtual model of individual LEGO brick. The designer then adds in the intricacies that actually make the appearance of the final animal closer to reality.
“I start redesigning it: sculpting contours in it, putting stripes in, move a muscle here, a bulge there, putting features in the face,” he says.”Then I go back and actually make [physical] prototypes of certain parts, like the eyes, the teeth and so forth.”Because of the challenge of building so many animals, the staffers worked non-stop eight hours a day.
“That is a lot of little squares to look at for eight hours,” says Gerling. “Your eyes start crossing a bit.”So that the LEGO creatures can withstand harsh weather and inquisitive little fingers, the craftsmen build them around steel reinforcement and glued with solvent based glue.
“One of the things we are really serious about when we do design is pickability,” says Gerling. “It’s hard to stand next to one of these and not touch it, even though we try very hard to discourage it. It’s human nature. So the fewer small, pickable parts we put on, the better for everyone.”The Bronx zoo staff is as excited as the visitors with the new LEGO animals on display. Bronx Zoo director Jim Breheny feels it is a great way to engage and educate kids about conservation while they are having fun. To show the process of building a lifelike animal, master builders will be present at the zoo this weekend to build a LEGO crocodile. Visitors can also take part in the project at the Moose House Lawn.
“We look for somebody who is really good at making things, with some formal design training. And a kid who plays with LEGOs his whole life is a plus,” says Gerling. “That being said, I never played with them before walking in the door here!” he laughs. “I had mud and sticks when I was as a kid.”For the LEGO generation of today, it sure is going to be lots of fun in store this summer at the Bronx zoo. SOURCE