Erie Canal Cruise (Lockport)

I am always thrilled by the marvels of modern engineering and so there was no way I was going to pass up a chance to learn about the canal and the lock system that helps boats traverse changes in elevation to move from one body of water to another.  The Erie canal cruise is a relaxed and laid back way to enjoy time on the water while you watch in awe at the fabulous way engineers found  to solve a problem moving … [Read more...]

Confessions Of A Road Trip Junkie

My boyfriend Jordan is not a huge fan of travel, in fact on the rare occasions when we travel together he can't wait to get back to the comforts of home. A cozy bed, great water pressure, the creature comforts of your own living environment- of course I miss those things too when I am out on the road, but for me the thrill of new discoveries and unique experiences are worth the inconveniences I have to deal with … [Read more...]

Cave Of The Winds (Niagara Falls)

There are a few ways to get a more up close and personal experience at the falls provided you don't mind getting a little wet, and if it's a super hot day like it was when we were there, it can actually be quite refreshing. After finding out that the Maid of The Mist, the boat that cruises up to the falls was completely sold out, we discovered the Cave Of The Winds which turned out to be quite a fun and memorable … [Read more...]

Niagara Falls NY (Niagara Falls)

There is not much more that compares in nature than the awesome power of the rushing waters over Niagara Falls. The falls straddle the border between the US and Canada and it's no secret that the falls on the Canadian side are much more breathtaking but since we didn't have our passports and weren't taking any chances we decided to marvel at the tamer Falls on the American side and we weren't even remotely … [Read more...]

Culture through Desserts: A Tasty Way To Explore

Who doesn't love a tasty treat?  Food is a super way to learn about different regions and cultures and it's one of my best ways of keeping everyone interested and engaged in whatever we're exploring.  When I mention tasting or sampling everyone's ears perk up, but it takes on a whole new level when it's something sweet! There's nothing like sugar to lift everyone's spirits and get everyone chatting and making nice. … [Read more...]

Brennan and Carr (New York City, Brooklyn)

Are you a roast beef fan? If so, you do not want to miss place.  Brennan and Carr's has been making their famous roast beef dip sandwiches since 1938 and pleasing Brooklynites for generations. Located in the Sheepshead Bay area this is a real locals kind of place. The kids and I popped into this tiny joint and were instantly hit with the pleasing aroma of roasting beef. On the counter we saw a couple of small … [Read more...]

Brighton Beach (New York City-Brooklyn)

What I love about America is there are so many places where you can go and feel like you are in another whole country. Brooklyn is no exception.  There are many immigrant communities here but one of the most famous is Brighton Beach which can feel to the average American like a trip to Russia. Take a walk under the subway bridge a block from the beach and every sign will be in Russian, the language you hear on the … [Read more...]

Brooklyn Bridge (New York City-Brooklyn)

There are many ways to take in the storied Brooklyn Bridge.  You can walk across it, cruise under it, or just take it in from the shore. We opted for option number three which we recommend from the Brooklyn side where you can enjoy some ice cream or pizza at Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory or Juliana's while you stroll along with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop to the beautiful bridge. The first thing I thought … [Read more...]

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory (New York City-Brooklyn)

We weren't sure what to expect when we walked up to the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory under the Brooklyn Bridge.  All our guidebooks told us to check it out but Larry our friend from Brooklyn had never heard of it.  If you know us by now, you know we will never pass on ice cream so in we went and man, are we glad we did. First off the little shop is adorable, located in an old firehouse it's filled with little bits … [Read more...]

Coney Island aka Luna Park (New York City-Brooklyn)

A visit to Brooklyn is not complete without at stop at Coney Island on the shore near Brighton Beach. Walk up to the ticket booth for The Luna Park amusement park amid the brightly colored rides and instantly you are 7 years old pulling on your parent sleeve begging to go explore. Don't expect much in comparison to a new theme park though. It's a place of nostalgia that hearkens back to simpler times. Our main … [Read more...]