Don’t Go Crazy

Preparing for a vacation is exhilarating, anxiety inducing, and possibly expensive. I was at the store today with my youngest daughter and felt that I needed a new carry on bag, a new phone charger, and packing cubes (which I already own). Thankfully, my daughter talked me out of all of these purchases. This made me realize that when preparing for a trip and you find yourself in a Walmart/Target, ask yourself “Do I really need this?” or “Will I really use this?” Let your Jiminy Cricket be your guide and possibly save yourself from yourself by stopping you from purchasing unnecessary items.

In today’s newsletter:

• Travel News this Week

• City Spotlight: Lake Tahoe, NV/CA

  • Who should go?

  • When should we go?

  • What should we see?

  • Where should we eat?

  • Why Lake Tahoe?

• Travel Hacks

Travel News this Week

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

• Traveling for healing: How traveling to all the countries helped heal a young traveler.

• Pizza European Style: The top 50 European pizzas and a notable exception, can you find it?

• What to make of the warnings: How to understand and respond to State Department travel warnings.

City Spotlight: Lake Tahoe

Prepare to be mesmerized by the sapphire waters and towering pines! Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada, offers a breathtaking escape for families seeking unparalleled natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, and a laid-back, mountain-town vibe. From crystal-clear lake activities and scenic hiking trails to world-class ski resorts and charming lakeside villages, Lake Tahoe promises a memorable experience for all ages. Get ready to dive into the beauty and excitement of this iconic Sierra Nevada gem with your crew!

Who should go to Lake Tahoe?

Families who love the outdoors, appreciate stunning natural landscapes, and enjoy both high-energy adventure and relaxed lakeside living will find Lake Tahoe irresistible. If your family enjoys swimming, boating, hiking, skiing/snowboarding, exploring picturesque towns, and soaking in incredible vistas, Lake Tahoe is calling your name. It's a fantastic destination for families with kids of all ages, offering everything from sandy beaches and gentle walking paths to challenging mountain bike trails and exhilarating slopes for teens.

When should we go?

Summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Lake Tahoe, with warm, sunny weather perfect for swimming, boating, hiking, and exploring the many beaches. Fall (September-October) offers breathtaking fall foliage, cooler temperatures ideal for hiking, and fewer crowds. Winter (December-March) is prime for skiing and snowboarding at the numerous world-class resorts surrounding the lake, offering incredible powder days and picturesque snowy landscapes. Spring (April-May) is beautiful with melting snow and burgeoning wildflowers, though some higher elevation trails and ski runs may still be open or closed depending on the year.

What should we see?

Lake Tahoe boasts an incredible mix of natural wonders and charming lakeside attractions for families. Here are a few must-sees:

• Emerald Bay State Park & Vikingsholm: One of the most photographed spots in the world, Emerald Bay offers stunning turquoise water, Fannette Island (the only island in Lake Tahoe), and the historic Vikingsholm Castle. There's a steep but rewarding hike down to the castle and beach.

• Tahoe Rim Trail: For families who enjoy hiking, even small sections of this 165-mile loop trail offer incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Look for accessible segments near Spooner Lake or Kings Beach.

• Sand Harbor State Park: Located on the Nevada side, this park boasts clear, shallow waters, sandy beaches, and unique rock formations, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and photography. It's often busy, so arrive early.

• Heavenly Gondola (South Lake Tahoe): Take a scenic gondola ride up Heavenly Mountain Resort for panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. At the top, there are observation decks, hiking trails, and even an adventure park in the summer.

Where should we eat?

Lake Tahoe offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining, with many embracing a rustic, mountain-town feel. Here are a few kid-friendly favorites:

• Fireside Pizza Company (Squaw Valley/Olympic Valley): Enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas with fresh ingredients in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Perfect after a day of adventuring.

• Base Camp Pizza Co. (South Lake Tahoe): Another popular pizza spot known for its creative pies, craft beers (for the adults!), and a vibrant, casual setting right in the Heavenly Village.

• Fatcat Bar & Grill (Tahoe City): A local favorite offering a diverse menu with something for everyone, including delicious burgers, sandwiches, and salads, in a relaxed setting.

• Sno-Flake Drive-In (South Lake Tahoe): A classic roadside stand serving up juicy burgers, fries, and old-fashioned milkshakes. Great for a quick and satisfying meal that feels like a throwback.

Why Lake Tahoe?

Lake Tahoe offers an exhilarating and deeply beautiful family travel experience, seamlessly blending unparalleled natural grandeur with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Its pristine lake and majestic mountains provide a stunning backdrop for both high-energy activities and serene relaxation. The region's commitment to preserving its natural beauty, combined with charming lakeside towns, makes for an authentic and enriching visit. Lake Tahoe provides an inspiring yet accessible backdrop for families seeking to reconnect with nature, adventure, and each other.

Travel Hacks

• Save yourself some money and time before you leave and make a list of people you plan/need to buy souvenirs for. This will keep you from the uncomfortable situation of forgetting someone.

• If you are planning on bringing your fur baby along for the vacation, understand that airlines will not allow any pet under 8 weeks old to board the plane.