Take care of your guides

As stated in the previous newsletter, my family and I just returned from a two week trip to London, England and Dublin, Ireland. While we were there, we went on numerous guided tours thanks to Viator. One thing I noticed was how appreciative the guides were if you gave them a tip/gratuity after the tour. Some even felt compelled to help us with places to visit, eat, drink, and who to see when there. Taking care of your guides on these tours isn’t just a nice act, it may in fact create an even better relationship because it tells them that you appreciate all of their hard work. Yes, they get paid by the companies they work for, but this little gesture goes a long way to form some fruitful relationships.

In today’s newsletter:

• Travel News this Week

• City Spotlight: Toronto, Canada

  • Who should go?

  • When should we go?

  • What should we see?

  • Where should we eat?

  • Why here?

• Travel Hacks

Travel News this Week

Some helpful travel news for families that have occurred this week.

• Time to “Pony Up”?: New Visa fees are announced for the United States.

• A new Disney Debut: Disney World debuts new night time light show to amaze its visitors.

• Families on the fly: TSA launches new family focused program.

City Spotlight: Toronto, Canada

We’re heading back to the “neighbor to the North” and Canada’s largest city, Toronto. Prepare to be captivated by Toronto, a dynamic metropolis where urban sophistication meets natural beauty! Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto offers an exhilarating and diverse escape for families seeking a vibrant blend of cultural experiences, thrilling attractions, and stunning waterfront views. From iconic landmarks and world-class museums to beautiful parks and delicious culinary adventures, Toronto promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Get ready to discover the energy and charm of this incredible Canadian gem with your crew!

Who should go to Toronto, Canada?

Families who love a dynamic mix of city excitement, cultural immersion, and outdoor recreation will find Toronto irresistible. If your family enjoys exploring diverse neighborhoods, visiting impressive museums and art galleries, experiencing towering attractions, enjoying waterfront activities, and indulging in a world of international cuisine, Toronto is calling your name. It's a fantastic destination for families with kids of all ages, offering everything from interactive science centers and animal encounters for the little ones to thrilling amusement parks and vibrant entertainment districts for teens and adults.

When should we go?

Toronto offers something special year-round.

• Summer (June-August) is a popular time, with warm weather perfect for lake activities, outdoor festivals, and enjoying the full lineup of attractions.

• Fall (September-October) brings cooler temperatures, stunning fall foliage in the city's parks, and often fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring and enjoying cultural events.

• Winter (November-March) transforms Toronto into a festive wonderland with elaborate Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and special events, creating a magical holiday experience.

• Spring (April-May) offers mild temperatures, blooming flowers in the city's gardens, and the reopening of many seasonal attractions, providing a refreshing start to the travel season. July and August are often highlighted for a balance of good weather, vibrant events, and a lively atmosphere.

What should we see?

Toronto boasts an incredible array of attractions and urban beauty for families. Here are a few must-sees:

• CN Tower: Ascend this iconic landmark for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. For the truly adventurous, try the EdgeWalk!

• Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: Dive into an underwater world with thousands of marine animals, interactive exhibits, and a mesmerizing moving sidewalk through a shark-filled tunnel.

• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Explore fascinating collections spanning art, culture, and natural history, from dinosaur skeletons to ancient artifacts.

• Toronto Islands: Take a short ferry ride to these car-free islands for stunning city skyline views, sandy beaches, bike rentals, and Centreville Amusement Park.

• Casa Loma: Toronto's iconic mansion, Casa Loma has been featured in numerous movies and television shows and offers a look at the aristocratic lifestyles of the early 1900’s.

Where should we eat?

Toronto offers an incredible variety of dining options, reflecting its diverse population. Here are a few kid-friendly favorites:

• Kensington Market: A vibrant and bohemian neighborhood offering an eclectic mix of international street food, quirky cafes, and unique shops. Perfect for adventurous eaters!

• St. Lawrence Market: A historic public market with an incredible array of food vendors, offering everything from fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to prepared meals. Great for a casual lunch or picking up gourmet treats.

• The Old Spaghetti Factory: A classic family-friendly restaurant with a fun, eclectic atmosphere, serving large portions of pasta dishes with a complimentary bread and ice cream.

• Sweet Jesus: Indulge in elaborate and creative ice cream creations, perfect for a treat on a warm day.

Why Toronto, Canada?

Toronto offers an exhilarating and enriching family travel experience, seamlessly blending world-class urban attractions with beautiful green spaces and a stunning waterfront. Its dedication to multiculturalism and innovation provides a unique and memorable vacation. The city's vibrant arts scene, coupled with diverse culinary delights and welcoming hospitality, makes for an authentic and exciting visit. Toronto provides an exciting yet accessible backdrop for families seeking to create lasting memories, enjoy thrilling adventures, and explore a truly global city together.

Travel Hacks

• Attention Disneyland hotel patrons. If you are staying at one of the Disneyland hotels you can have any and all of your in park purchases sent directly to your room. That way you are not weighed down with all the merch your kids just have to have.

• When an airline allows only one “personal item onboard”, that does not count a pillow. Stuff a few clothing items in there as well and you have a second carry on.

• Afraid that your food has gone bad at home? Try this cool trick. Before you leave, place a coin on top of a mug filled with ice in your freezer. When you return, check the mug and if the coin is frozen inside the ice, that means your freezer stopped working at one point during your trip and could signal spoiled food. If it’s frozen on top of the ice, eat up!