Darien Lake, Family Enjoyment Since 1954

Jennifer Arneill
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Darien Lake, Family Enjoyment Since 1954
Darien Lake has been around for as long as I can remember, but I’ve never experienced it before this summer.  I hadn’t heard much about it in recent years; I only remembered seeing television commercials from childhood, back when it was a Six Flags theme park. But this summer my sister-in-law invited me to bring my kids to join her and my niece for a mid-week holiday.  They had found a great deal online (www.godarienlake.com) and we thought it would be fun to get the kids together.  I hadn’t thought much of it, until I looked in to the deal myself. They have a one-night special available on Thursdays or Sundays called “Test Our Beds Package”, where you get one night accommodations, pizza dinner, buffet breakfast and tickets to Darien lake for 2 days.  The packages start at $216 +tax.  I brought my Mom, my 4-year old son and my 2 ½ -year old daughter (who was free).  The four of us stayed and played for something like $285 all included.  It was an awesome deal! Darien Lake is located between Buffalo & Rochester, NY.  I mapped it out and it was only a 2.5 hour drive from our home in Guelph, ON.  So we packed up the car and off we went. In just over 3 hours (there was a wait at the border) we made it to the hotel, which is right on the property.  Driving up to the gate, I was impressed right from the start.  The person at the gate confirmed my reservation right there in her booth and let me on to the property.  The Lodge on the Lake Hotel from the outside, was very nice.  They have a big bear carving out front (much like Great Wolf Lodge).  It is very esthetically pleasing.  Inside is small and simple – there was a front desk, gift shop and little café. Check-in wasn’t until 3pm and we had arrived early, so there weren’t any rooms available yet.  However they ‘checked us in’ and gave us our park passes and food vouchers.  So we decided to wander around and check the place out. Out through the back patio doors was the swimming pool and a smaller pool we thought was a hot tub, but turned out to be a wading pool – perfect for my kids!  Beyond the pool was the lake itself.  It was a beautiful little spot, with a campground beyond, off to the left.  And off to the right was the path leading to the theme park. The park is smaller that Canada’s Wonderland, but had more than enough entertainment to keep us busy with two small children.  I was very happy to have brought my stroller.  I was very (pleasantly) surprised that there was an area specific to small children who didn’t meet height requirements for regular rides.  ‘Adventure Isle’ had all sorts of rides for little people, from monster trucks to swings to spinning flower pots.  They were all just the right size for my little ones. My daughter thoroughly enjoyed every ride (I think she went on most). I found it ironic that my daughter, being still 2, was free (to eat, park admission, hotel, etc.), but she was the one who went on all the rides!  My brave little baby. The BEST part of our visit was that there were no lineups!  We had contemplated Canada’s Wonderland, but decided our kids were just too small.  I was so happy with Darien Lake, because if my kids wanted to ride, away they went.  Most of the rides ran half full (not the most economic operation), but it was great for children who need instant gratification to keep their attention span. So the Park itself was great.  The prices inside the Park were more than I would like to have spent ($3.66 for a bottle of water), but you would find that in many tourist attractions.  Then there is the water park, Splash Town – an awesome splash pad for the kids.  (A really easy place to lose a kid – which happened once for about 5 minutes of panic!  But if in doubt, look for a pirate ship, and you’ll find a 4-year old boy!)  Water fountains, a pirate ship, climbing, ropes, slides, you name it (really cold water though). After an afternoon at the park we headed back to the hotel to find there were still no rooms.  Everyone was sitting around waiting for a room to be cleaned.  No one wanted to leave, because they were giving rooms away to whomever is at the desk at the time they are released.  Not a great process. Once we finally got our room I didn’t find it very impressive.  Cleanliness left a lot to be desired.  But it was a place to sleep.  We had 2 queen beds and a pull-out couch, which was great for the kids.  (But I wouldn’t put an adult on the pullout.)  There was a fridge too, which is a nice thing to have with kids.  As a bonus the Park allows you to bring in your own food & drinks.  Coolers are actually allowed in the park, so the fridge would come in really handy for keeping your refreshments cold for the next day. (Unfortunately, I hadn’t planned ahead). I am normally not fussy but the beds were lousy and the pillows were horrible.  And the number of flies around was insane – in the park, in the restaurant, and in my room!   It really was just a place to sleep.  Check-out was at 11am.  The front desk actually phoned my room at 10:55 to remind me of that. But aside from the Hotel, the trip was awesome. Mother Nature did her job.  We couldn’t have wished for 2 nicer days (and the weatherman called for thunderstorms).  The location was beautiful.  My Mom and I said we could just sit and stare at the lake for hours and drink a coffee (but alas, you can’t do that with kids along).  The Park impressed us.  The waterpark alone would have been worth the trip.  We hadn’t been expecting much, and were pleasantly surprised.  The kids had SO much fun.  Even my son, who doesn’t like rides, asked when we could come back. And still, there was so much we didn’t get to do.  There was a fireworks show (too late for my kids) that we missed, all choreographed to music.  They had a Sealion performance.  There was a lazy river and huge water slides in the park (we hardly scratched the surface of the splash park).   They had live musical performances throughout the day.  Oh, and Adventure Isle had a little Thomas the Train performance for the kids.  The Park also hosts concerts for the likes of Kid Rock, Toby Keith and Sugarland, to name a few. Darien Lake apparently opened back in 1955 as a picnic and swimming area Since then, it has developed into something so much more, yet still a place for families to go and enjoy.  They really do have something for everyone of every age. Despite my disappointment with the accommodations, I will go again.  Perhaps this time I will try camping.  There are beautiful-looking cabins for rent on the campsite that may be more suitable for our family.

Feature Review: phil&teds metro Backpack Carrier

Lisa Arneill
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Feature Review: phil&teds metro Backpack Carrier
With a mission to “change parenting on the go”, phil&teds has designed the metro backpack carrier for every parent. Whether using the metro in an urban setting (say fighting the crowds at your favorite shop) or in the outdoors (hiking perhaps) the metro is sure to meet your needs. The metro is designed so you can get out & about with your child. The fully adjustable harness gives you loads of support & comfort; your child has their own adjustable padded harness & loads of storage. With a lightweight and tough aluminum frame and durable, waterproof, washable nylon fabric, the Metro makes it possible to take your tyke anywhere that you can go. Out of the box the metro is ready to go – the only “assembly” would be to attach the hood & visor shade if you want. I personally didn’t have it attached all the time because my son likes to have the breeze and full visibility of all that’s around him. That being said you could easily leave it on if you want to. A bonus with the hood and visor shade is that when not attached to the carrier they fold up easily and can be stored inside the internal compartment of the main carrier pocket. It’s very easy to put the metro on, as it features a self standing fold-out base so that you can easily secure your child on the seat before putting it onto your back. There are a few key things that I adore about the metro:
  • It’s size! Not only is it a slim profile that makes it ideal for crowded spaces as well as enjoying nature, but the lightweight aluminum frame {4.4lbs} holds plenty of gear along with baby. Plus when folded the frame is so small that it doesn’t take up excess space when not in use.
  • Custom fit – for all! My beef with many baby carriers is that while they seem to fit my hubby well I have trouble adjusting the straps to make the carrier comfortable for me. Either the straps aren’t in the right place to provide the required support or they don’t tighten enough. With the metro I’ve been pleasantly surprised that I’ve been able to adjust it to suit my needs – plus my hubby, sister and father have all used the metro with my son and we’ve all found it a perfect fit. The hip belt (for better lumbar support), shoulder straps, top and lower stabilizing straps (to match your torso length) and chest strap are all adjustable making sure that you can find the most comfortable fit for you. Even baby’s seat height is adjustable for grow-with-me comfort.
  • Accessories! I love that the hood/visor and rain shield are included and can easily be stored in the carrier. I also love that it comes with its own change pad included and ample storage for my essentials. When going out with the metro I’ve been able to take everything I need right in the carrier so I haven’t had to worry about lugging a diaper bag around. The main pocket in the back is big enough to store wipes, diapers, your wallet, some snacks and more. You can even store a drink for you and baby in the side pockets.
The Metro is also supremely comfortable for you and for baby even on long excursions. It comes with firm padded shoulder straps and ventilating mesh back pads for you and a super soft and adjustable child seat for the little one that makes it one of the most comfortable carriers we have tried. I have a number of baby carriers and to date have certain ones that use for specific things i.e. One I keep in my car for day trips in town, another I always take on vacations, then I have some that I use in specific whether (ie. One with a great sun / rain cover for the crappy weather, a breathable one for those hot/ humid days). Having used the metro in a number of conditions now, this may be my new “go to carrier”. I think it would be perfect for almost anything that I’d want to use it for. Versatile enough that I can use it in the shops or at a festival and small enough that I can put it in an airplane storage compartment. Available in three color combinations (grey/orange, grey/red & grey/grey) this phil&teds metro backpack carrier is more comfortable and compact than many other, is designed for children 3months – 3 years (16-40lbs), is light weight and very functional…and at $179.99 an outstanding value, too. Voted by babble.com as best baby carrier in 2011 it’s easy to see why the metro was the winner! Features of the Metro Backpack Carrier: • Lightweight and tough aluminum frame • Ample cargo space • Folds flat for easy storage • Self-standing stable base for safe loading and unloading • Change sheet for clean tushies on the go • Compact, sleek design for managing crowds and tight spaces • Padded and adjustable child harness • Dimensions: Unfolded 27.6″ x 12.6″ x 16.5″/Folded 27.6″ x 12.6″ x 4.7″ • U.S. and European safety certified

Feature Review: Cybex Ruby 2011

Lisa F
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Feature Review: Cybex Ruby 2011
I have been looking for a travel stroller for use at the cottage and for family vacations for a few months now and found exactly what we need in European stroller manufacturer Cybex’s Ruby. Part of their Gem line, the Ruby is their simplest stroller, making for an extremely lightweight, yet impressive piece of gear. There was some assembly required with the Ruby, and after unpacking and reading the manual it took me 20 minutes from start to finish. A little longer than most “pop on the wheels and go strollers”, but well worth the time. I had to attach the two handles, pop on four wheels, and attach the Super Canopy and the carry strap. The canopy was tricky to push on and needed a little more force than I was expecting so this is where my time was spent. Now that I know how to do it if I were to set up a second stroller it would likely take under 10 minutes. The Ruby is equipped with a five-point safety harness with three shoulder harness positions and an adjustable crotch strap allowing for a very custom fit. The buckle and harness straps are of excellent quality and adjust and snap together with ease. The backrest has two positions: an upright and a very slightly reclined position which works great for us because our little man doesn’t want to miss a thing. Cybex has baby’s comfort and safety in mind when it comes to hot sunny climates. I love that the Super Canopy is rated at 50+ UV protection and covers a large portion of the stroller regularly, but when unzipped it literally covers my 10 month old from head to toe. The canopy not only unzips for full coverage but tilts forward and slides up and down to accommodate a taller child, which is great since it can hold up to 55lbs. For maximum airflow the Ruby has a mesh seat and canopy sides and the back flap can roll up for venting, so my son never gets too hot when we are out on long summer walks. To go along with the summer features this stroller has one of the most flip flop friendly braking systems I have used. The rear brake is attached to the right wheel and you step down on the lower step to lock and on the upper step to unlock. The push on this stroller is absolutely luxurious and I marvel at the smoothness every time I put my son in it. I love the feel of it on smooth surfaces like those in a shopping mall but am amazed at how well the small 4.7 inch diameter rear suspension wheels do on rougher terrains. We have been through grassy fields, dirt and gravel paths, and up and down hills of all types, and with a simple lock of the front wheels the Ruby travels with ease. The soft foam ergonomic handles are nice and high at 41 inches from the ground so even my 6’6” tall husband can push the Ruby comfortably. The fold of this stroller is so easy I can do it while holding my baby in one arm. Lift up the release button by pulling up on the carry strap then push down the fold lever. The stroller neatly closes up and automatically locks; at this point you can grab the carry handle with one hand and lift the lightweight 13lb stroller into your trunk or throw the carry strap over your shoulder and be on your way. For storage the Ruby has a mesh basket which is supported by a crisscross frame underneath to prevent dragging. It is fully accessible from the back and sides and can accommodate a small diaper bag, a purse or some toys and snacks. I find myself hanging extra items on the handles if we are out for longer trips and need more space (just remember to unload before taking out the baby so you don’t risk tipping the stroller over). For being a fairly basic stroller it sure turns heads. Practically every time we have gone out with it I have received comments from other moms, grandparents and tonight a little girl told me how pretty it is. Most people like the high handle bars, the zip open canopy and the vibrant colour of ours – Lagoon. The Ruby also comes in an array of other crisp colours. I love the ease and fresh design of this stroller so much I find we are taking it out more often than just for vacations. In fact we were planning on leaving it at the cottage for the summer but I find myself sneaking it home each time we pack so I can use it for quick trips around town too. The Ruby is a great flyweight travel stroller that looks great and is truly affordable at $149. Optional Accessories:
  • Cup Holder (can attach at child or parent height)
  • Rain Cover
  • Infant Car Seat Adapter
Measurements:
  • Open 32″L x 19.69″W x 41.34″H
  • Folded 40.55″L x 11.81″W x 13″

Thank you Cybex for sending us a Ruby 2011 for review.

Cap Off the Summer in Muskoka

Jeff Fox
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Cap Off the Summer in Muskoka
‘Tis the season for “Back to School” sales at every retail outlet in the known world.  But we still have a few more weeks of summer left and time to have one last getaway before the kiddies head back to school.  Why not do what movie stars, sports heroes and captains of industry have been doing for decades and take the family to Muskoka? Located about two hours north of Toronto, composing of the cities of Gravenhurst, Bracebridge and Hunstville, as well as the townships of Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, and Muskoka Lakes, the District Municipality of Muskoka is world-renowned for its beautiful scenery and abundance of outdoor activities and cottages.  If you decide to head up to cottage country for a little end of summer sojourn, here are five family-friendly spots to hit up in Muskoka. 1) Webers Hamburgers While Webers Hamburgers isn’t technically located in Muskoka (it’s just north of Orillia on Highway 11), it has still been a must-stop destination for travellers to Muskoka since it opened in 1963.  In the 48 years since it opened its doors, the restaurant has become an iconic part of cottaging in Muskoka, as millions pull off the highway to grab some burgers, fries and milkshakes.  With brightly coloured picnic tables and a large grassy, tree-lined property, Webers is a great place to stop, stretch your legs and have an impromptu picnic.  Or, if the weather is crummy, have your grub in one of the restaurant’s many train cars that serve as dining cabins.  And when you’re getting your food, make sure to say hi to “The Key Man”, Mike McParland, whose been flipping burgers there since the restaurant opened.

2) Algonquin Provincial Park Established in 1893, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the most famous – and largest – parks in the world.  Located a short drive from Huntsville, it is a perfect spot to take the family to experience wildlife and nature up close.  There are many ways to enjoy the park, depending on how intense an experience you are looking for.  If you are hardcore, you can canoe, portage and camp out deep into the park – that is your best bet to see some of the park’s furry inhabitants, such as bear and moose.  Or you can take the family on a day hike on the many hiking trails throughout the area.  Or, if you are really lazy (or short on time), just keep on driving on Highway 60, which cuts through the lower half of the park.  Believe it or not, you have a good chance at seeing some moose without even getting out of your car.

3) Muskoka Drive In Drive-in theatres are going the way of the dinosaur, but cottage country still has one – the Muskoka Drive In.  Located just outside Gravenhurt, the Mukoka Drive In offers affordable family-friendly fun (depending on what movies they’re showing, of course) and even lets you bring the pets along for the show (try to keep the barking down, though).

4) Bracebridge Falls

 It’s always good to find some free things to do while on vacation with the family – Lord knows most things break the bank account.  A good, free spot to hit in Muskoka are the Bracebridge waterfalls.  Situated right in the heart of the downtown, the roaring falls are sure to delight your little ones, and there are plenty of walking paths and parks in the vicinity (not to mention ice cream shops).

5) Santa’s Village Many amusement parks aren’t best suited for babies or toddlers, but that isn’t the case with Bracebridge’s Santa’s Village.  Actual, they call themselves a “family entertainment park”, and that’s definitely the case as there is fun to be had for all ages within its 60 acres.  Situated right on the beautiful Muskoka River, the park lives up to its name – it’s a replica of Santa’s North Pole home, built among the trees of Muskoka.  Little ones will be thrilled to meet and sit on the knee of the big guy himself, go on the toddler-friendly rides, pet the animals in the petting zoo or take train and boat rides through the park.  And for the older kids in the family, there’s Sportsland with  go-carts, lazer tag, batting cages and things of that nature.  Enjoy Christmas, without having to shovel snow.

World’s Longest Water Coaster of Mammoth Proportions

Cathy
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World’s Longest Water Coaster of Mammoth Proportions
You and five other shipmates start your journey with a 300 foot conveyer climb. Up, up, up, your boat creeps. You hear the cranking of the linear induction motors, the force that pulls you up towards to top. The ground is slipping further and further away. You see the top. You know it’s coming. Finally, you reach the top.

Just as you look down, you and your shipmates are plummeting down at a 45 degree angle. Down, down, down, faster and faster until you reach the end of the five story drop. Your heart is racing – adrenaline pumping through your veins but your ride isn’t over yet! This ride spans over a third of a mile. It is the longest water coaster in the world. It is the Mammoth. Sound like fun?! That’s what the park owners of Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana are hoping you’ll think so. They are estimating that Mammoth will bring in 1,080 guests per hour, exceeding the success of the Wildebeest. Once completed, it will be the park’s most expensive ride, span over three miles and increase the park’s total size to thirty acres. Designers are going all out for this ride. Special crafts have been designed for the ride and designers have included a total six drops which, when added together, include 282 feet of heart pumping plummeting action. If you are a thrill seeker and don’t mind getting a little wet, this should be a definite to-do experience on next year’s vacation list! SOURCE

Taking The Brood To Bean Town

Jeff Fox
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Taking The Brood To Bean Town
Boston is famously known as “Bean Town”, but perhaps it’s time for a new nickname for the city.  If New York City is “The Big Apple”, shouldn’t Boston be “The Second Banana”, considering it is always overshadowed by the metropolis to its south?  While Boston might be often overlooked because of NYC , it shouldn’t be when planning a fun vacation with the family.  Here are five family-friendly things to do in “The Second Banana”: 1) New England Aquarium If your kids are anything like mine, then one of the first things you do while visiting a new city is to make a bee-line (no pun intended) to the local zoo or aquarium.  And, in the words of a true Bostonian, Boston has a “wicked awesome” spot to check out animals – the New England Aquarium.  The aquarium, which opened in 1969, pulls in over a million visitors every year, and is located fittingly right down by the ocean at Central Wharf.  Some of the creatures visitors can examine are sharks, whales, octopus and even penguins.  But the real crown jewel of the aquarium is its Giant Ocean Tank, which is a four-story coral reef exhibit smack dab in the middle of the complex that will thrill parents and kids alike. 2) Fenway Park Another area where New York grabs the attention from Boston is in the sports pages.  However, New York’s teams have got nothing on Boston’s in terms of success as of late – all of Boston’s four major sports teams have won championships in recent years.  But in this “City of Champions”, the most beloved team of all is of course the Boston Red Sox.  A big part of this is due to the venerable home of the Sox, Fenway Park, which is the oldest Major League Baseball stadium still in use (it opened in 1912).  Fenway Park is so old, Babe Ruth used to play there when he was a pitcher, before he turned into a colossal home run hitter for the rival Yankees.  While tickets to a game can be hard to come by (and expensive), a much cheaper option is taking the family on a tour of the stadium ($12 for adults, $10 for kids 15 and under) for a taste of the game’s history. 3) Boston Common Boston’s answer to New York’s Central Park is Boston Common, which also holds the distinction of being the country’s oldest park.  Since its birth in 1634, the park has been the site of numerous historically significant events, including housing 1000 Redcoats during the days of the Britain’s occupation, and hosting a Martin Luther King Jr. speech.  It’s also a great spot to grab some takeout food and take the family for a picnic and let the kids swim in Frog Pond. 4) Boston Duck Tour While convincing kids of any age to go sightseeing with their parents in a new city can be a difficult task, Boston has a sure-fire cure for that – its Duck Tours.  Borrowing a page from World War II, the tours use a DUKW Amphibious Vehicle, which allows the guides to take sightseers on both land and water to check out the sights of Boston.  Driving a car into the ocean is sure to thrill the kiddies.

5) Cape Cod Whale Watching Located a short drive from Boston is the world famous Cape Cod.  While there is plenty to do in The Cape, including fishing, sightseeing, swimming, chilling on the beach, boating and festivals, it is also a great spot to go whale watching.  And the best part is most boat companies in the area guarantee its customers that they will see some whales, whether it be humpback whales, Right whales or any of the various other types that call the area home.  

Programs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum Offer Families a Look into Prehistory

Jen R
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Programs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum Offer Families a Look into Prehistory
I just added a new location to the list of places I want to visit with my family. If you have a little dino-junky in your house, you may want to add The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology to your list too.

My four-year-old eats, sleeps and breaths dinosaurs. I now consider him the household authority on the subject. The other day, he requested a trip to Mongolia, so he could go on a real dinosaur dig. I explained that he probably has a better chance of visiting Alberta, also famous for its fossil deposits, seeing as his aunt and uncle recently moved to Calgary. I told him I would look into the Alberta dinosaur situation for him. I was pleasantly surprised when I uncovered the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the variety of programs they offer to visiting children. The Royal Tyrell is reputed to be the world’s finest palaeontology museum. Located in Drumheller, Alberta, a 90-minute side trip from Calgary, the museum is situated in the unusual, lunar-esque landscape of the badlands. Drumheller is home to the most abundant fossil deposit in North America. You’re practically tripping over dinos out there. The museum is the namesake of Joseph B. Tyrell, the man who discovered the menacing hunter, Albertosaurus. The Tyrrell Museum pays homage to its prehistoric collection by creatively displaying dinosaurs, including Albertosaurus and T. Rex, in realistic, mid-action tableau. The museum is in possession of thousands of fossil specimen. Visitors view the very best of the best. The programs offered at the museum offer rare experiences to children. There are several all ages programs and a variety of others beginning with three-year-olds and becoming increasingly involved, progressing through the teen years. There are guided hikes into the Badlands, realistic dino digs and investigation of authentic dinosaur fossils. Kids can make casts to replicate dinosaur remains and take a behind the scenes look at the museum. Children aged 5 to 13 can bring a chaperone and campout in the museum over night! Imagine the thrill of waking up in a room full of prehistoric giants. There are countless reasons dinosaurs captivate young and old alike. It’s incredible that they ever roamed the earth at all. They are fascinating, and not just to four-year-olds. Time spent at the Royal Tyrrell Museum is a trip into prehistory and an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. – Jen R, Staff Writer

Cycling The Danube Bike Path

Jen R
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Cycling The Danube Bike Path
For many of us, a European tour is a long anticipated trip-of-a-lifetime and if not a lifetime, than certainly the hallmark vacation of a youngster’s childhood. It is nothing to be sprinted through. Believe me, attempting to scramble through a whole country (even tiny European ones) every day or two, results in a trip that is nothing but frustration, confusion and ultimately, exhaustion. Accept that you cannot truly experience the whole continent in a couple of years let alone a couple of weeks. By zeroing in on a country or two – an experience or two, that are of particular interest and importance, the trip will be much more enjoyable and significant to your family.  I once tried to tour Western Europe in a week.  It was a blur and way, WAY too intense.  I have since learned to meander, and really take in the sights. A bicycle tour is a wonderful way to experience a chunk of the continent and it’s fun for the whole family.  The Danube Bike Path is the most popular European cycle route for 2011, according to BikeToursDirect, and it’s easy to see why it attracts so many travellers. Beginning in the Black Forest and emptying into the Black Sea, the bike path follows Europe’s second longest river, 2,850 km (1,770 miles), through nine countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria and Ukraine. The path is dedicated to cyclists and is separated from vehicular traffic, along its route, so children can peddle in safety. The stretch through Germany and Austria is very popular. There are guided tours that will carry you through the length of the ride, with a knowledgeable tour leader and a van following the group, in case someone runs into mechanical or physical difficulties. Other families may prefer a self-guided tour, so they can go at their own pace. This allows for leisurely stops to experience medieval towns, and long picnics in scenic vineyards. Now that sounds like a European tour to me. Europe was meant to be savoured from a bicycle seat. And just think, all that exercise means you can enjoy some pretty decadent food, guilt free. – Jen R, Staff Writer

Britax Introduces Car Seat Travel Cart!

Lisa Arneill
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81
Britax Introduces Car Seat Travel Cart!
Britax Child Safety, a leading child car seat and stroller manufacturer has announced the introduction of a great new piece of gear designed to make family travel easier. The Britax Car Seat travel cart, which is designed to tote all of Britax ‘Convertible Car Seats and Harnessed Booster Seats, and most other car seat brands, also features a compact fold for airplane storage. The new Travel Cart was thoughtfully engineered to ensure smooth, safe and simple travels for parents. It easily attaches your child’s car seat by using the car seat’s LATCH connectors — the same connectors that secure  the car seat tightly to vehicles. The LATCH system allows for a quick and effortless attachment.  The travel cart’s steel frame is designed for strength and durability and safely transports children harnessed in their car seats for short-travel distances.
“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.  
WIN IT!! Britax has offered One(1) World Traveled Family the opportunity to win a Car Seat Travel Cart! To enter please tell us your favorite Britax Product. Congratulations to our winner Dawn S!

Kelty Outfits the Whole Family for Camping Adventures

Jen R
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Kelty Outfits the Whole Family for Camping Adventures
In the twelve years I’ve been camping I’ve burned through my share of equipment. I don’t want to think about the number of times I’ve faced the consequences of purchasing flimsy products, simply because they were the cheapest I could find. Experience has taught me that equipment failure will ruin your whole trip. One frustrating occasion saw us chuck half our gear in a dumpster as we left the campground. Camping equipment has to take a beating. It is subjected to the stresses of wind, the degrading effects of the sun, it gets wet, it gets dirty, and it has to stand up to the rigors of being set up and torn down, over and over again. It also has to be portable and designed to anticipate your needs. With clever design and sturdy, thoughtful construction, Kelty has become a brand I trust, when I pack for a family adventure. Hula Shadehouse– When travelling with children, it’s vital to have access to shade on a sun drenched summer outing. The last thing anyone wants is an overheated, sunburnt toddler. With Kelty’s Hula Shadehouse, you can create your own shade, anytime, anywhere. The angled, hula hoop design provides great protection from both sun and rain. It stands high enough, for a grown man can stand up straight. It’s sturdy and the heavy duty poles make the Hula seem almost indestructible. The shelter sets up quickly and easily and packs into a small duffle bag for easy portability.

Lumapivot – Whether you’re in the middle of the woods or you just need some extra light, at the patio table in your own back yard, the Lumapivot lamp is a great solution. Two separate light panels swivel to allow you to direct light exactly where you need it. The lamp uses energy efficient LEDs, which provide 110 lumens for as much as 12 hours. The sleek case is weatherproof, which is super important as it will, at some point, be forgotten outside. At less than one pound, this is the ideal lamp for children to use on late night explorations and it won’t add much to the overall weight of your gear.

Essential Chair– Kelty’s Essential Chair truly is an essential. It’s great for sitting around the campfire, or alongside the soccer field, watching the under 5 league. It’s easily carried in its own handy-dandy pouch, complete with exterior pocket and padded strap. The chair itself is loaded with mesh pockets and features an innovative, adjustable beverage holder that can accommodate everything from a one litre bottle of water to a pop can…or a beer, let’s be honest. And you’ll never be at a loss for a bottle opener again, since Kelty has supplied one that lives in a little holster outside the beverage holder. The chair is more durable than most, with a 16-millimeter steel frame and tear resistant fabric with reflective accents. This isn’t one of those disposable grocery store chairs, the Essential will be part of your gear for a long, long time.

Shrike 32 Daypack – Kelty has been a leading name in backpacks since 1952.  They have a wide range of packs, for a variety of needs, many with internal or external frames.  The Shrike 32 is a good choice for day to day use.  It features a unique load carrying suspension system that incorporates an HDPE frame sheet, padded shoulder straps, ventilating/wicking back panel, removable webbing waist belt and sternum strap.  The pack is hydration compatible, which is great for long hikes or activities in hot weather.  It features a reservoir sleeve and mesh water bottle pockets.  This pack will take you anywhere you want to go, for however long it takes you to get there.

Big Dipper 30 Junior – Kelty makes sleeping bags for men, women and children that are designed for use in the heat of summer, the cold of winter or for three seasons.  They offer both down and synthetic fill.  The Big Dipper 30 Junior bag is cleverly designed, with little ones in mind.  It is a mummy bag rated between 30 ° and -1 °C.  It features a pillow pocket and an internal storage pocket.  The draw-cord has been replaced with elastic, to ensure safe sleeping.  The cool thing about this bag is that it actually grows with the child.  The foot section expands to lengthen the bag by 12 inches, so your child will be using this sleeping bag for many seasons.

Kelty can outfit the whole family with all the necessities for a great outdoor adventure.  Their cleverly designed, rugged products will be staples in your gear for many enjoyable years.  Check out their website to learn about their other cool products. www.kelty.com – Jen R, Staff Writer
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