Tag: #travelandlearn

Alaska 101: The Ultimate Family Playground!

brown wooden cabin at shore with view of green mountain range across body of water during daytime

The age of domestic travel is returning in a big way thanks to COVID-19. Road Trips and National Parks are the new buzz words in the travel industry. I think it’s safe to say that we are all going to be enjoying a lot more nooks and crannies of our country in these next few years as the travel and tourism industry dusts itself off and gets back on its feet. So, where do you even start? Well, when it comes to the ultimate American trip, I can think of no place better than Alaska!

river beside forest under bright sky

I always say it! When we are out traveling the world, don’t just look at it, do it! And Alaska is a paradise for those who like to join in and experience things first hand. Whether you choose to visit by cruise, RV rental, tour package, or in your own mini-van, Alaska has something for absolutely everyone! In fact, there are so many choices, you may not be able to get to all of them. So, grab the kids and Grandma! Check out this great list of 8 of the most family friendly activities that Alaska has to offer!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3vkW9mAohHNv9lUo7GmTze?si=zAVr7fSsTiSkKXESuC-d9Q

Animal watching in Denali National Park

Whether you know it as Denali or Mt. McKinley, this central point of Alaska and its surroundings never ceases to amaze! Once you are in the park, you can take on a hike on your own or jump on a school bus and enjoy a guided tour. Be prepared for a little ranger history and a few distant animals. If you’re lucky, you will get a chance to see the grand daddy of them all: the moose! This is definitely a trip to bring binoculars!

man holding basin

Gold panning in the streams of Juneau

Step back in time and try your hand at a little gold panning in the shallows of the brisk streams that surround the area. Kids will love getting elbow deep as they search and scoop and dig for treasure. It’s a can’t miss!

Whale watching in Glacier Bay National Park

While much of Alaska can be a bit overcast and gray, Glacier Bay sparkles! Learn about the glacier ice and catch a calving as the ice gives way to the water below. Watch the chunks of striped ice float by you and, if you are willing to get up early, you may run in to a pod of whales enjoying the morning light.

black whale in water during daytime

Fishing in the waters off of Ketchikan

Whether you are a fresh water fisher or prefer the salt water, Alaska has something for everyone. I highly suggest a guide that will make the most of your time. Guides are also helpful in keeping you safe from uniquely Alaskan dangers like bars while you fly fish or whale bubble nets while you fish for salmon. Many guides also include the processing and shipping in their fees. Our salmon arrived perfectly packaged on our door step the day after we returned home. Brilliant!

Salmon Bake in the woods

For an enchanting meal, try out a salmon bake. These outdoor venues nestle themselves in the woods and allows guests to get comfy around a campfire. We felt like little pixie fairies could show up at any time as we made s’mores. Watch out though, the squirrels are onto the marshmallows and may try to take one or two!

dog walking on road

Dog Sled Mushing and puppy hugging

Get ready to try out Alaska’s best sport! Dog Sledding! Having the chance to visit a dog sled camp is quite the treat. Most of the year, these amazing animal athletes are preparing for the Iditorad race. As a visitor, you can help out these furry friends by allowing them to pull you as they mush (you are a fraction of their winter haul). They are so excited when they know they are going to run! After that, socialize with the newest generation. They need to get to know lots of people in order to be successful on the race circuit. So, take a ride with the big dogs then go cuddle with the newest members of the pack- the puppies!.

River Rafting on a glacial river

Zip up your dry suit and get ready for the thrill of a lifetime! Alaska has some of the best rapids going and they are picture perfect in the Summer months. The water is cold and the great rafting guides will take you through some of the most beautiful bush country Alaska has to offer. Be sure to ask about the expected rapids level so that you are comfortable with the activity level.

2 men riding red kayak on sea during daytime

Zip Lining in Talkeetna in Central Alaska

Talkeetna lies in central Alaska. This quirky town is a great day trip and has an excellent zip lining course. With a super family friendly attitude, you can spend the afternoon, zipping and repelling to your heart’s content. The finale of your course is a great over water run that will keep your heart racing! This is my mom taking on the long fly across! So much fun!

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Ireland 101: The Wild Atlantic Way

a large white castle sitting on top of a lush green hillside

So, what can you do in Ireland with 5 days? As it turns out a lot! TGC is looking at different locations both near and far to see what great opportunities are out there to share with your family.

Western Ireland is an amazing corner of the globe that holds more surprises than you might expect. The Wild Atlantic Way is one of Europe’s best kept secrets. It’s windy, rainy, and often cold. It is untamed. But more than anything, it is stunning. There is no view or vista that doesn’t make you catch you breath. Like any involved traveler, though, scenery is not the only thing one wants to experience. So, what is there to do? It turns out, there is a lot!

Sheep dog demonstrations: All along the coast from Donegal to Dingle, you can find small farms that offer demonstrations on how their cool dogs keep control over their unfenced flocks. The partnership between man and dog is astounding and much more interesting than first meets the eye. Pictured here is champion, Jack. TGC’s Pick? Atlantic Sheepdogs in County Sligo. Find them on Facebook.

white bird on green grass field near body of water during daytime

Did you know that the term “wrapped around my little finger” comes from falconry? Ireland’s National Falconry School is located in Cong, County Mayo and is an experience like no other! Meet up in the school yard to learn the basics and then go on a hike with some feathered friends to experience flight like you never have before. While Falconry schools exist in other places, even here in the States, there is nothing quite like the thrill of enjoying it in the shadow of a great castle. Check it out at here.

Donegal

Horseback Riding is a great activity for most families but add in beaches that are wider than football fields, crashing waves of the Eastern Atlantic, pristine dune paths, and epic Irish draft horses, you have a memory that will last forever. The beaches that you get to ride on are also known for its surfing. TGC’s stable pick? Check out Donegal Equestrian Centre.

view photography of gray castle on island

Westport

Sometimes, you’ve got to get out and explore on your own and there is no better place for that in Western Ireland than Westport. This holiday town is picturesque town is bustling with all kinds of activities that speak to the family traveler. Check out the charming toy store on the main drag then rent some bikes and explore the Greenway. The Great Western Greenway is a 42 km trail that connects several towns together along Clew Bay. Check it out here.

person in red robe standing on green grass field near bare trees during daytime

Blarney Castle

As you go further south, you can check in on the famous Blarney Castle. I know, I know, you think it’s so cliche to go kiss that rock but trust me. Blarney is more than a rock to kiss! The grounds are expansive and include so much more than the castle. Peek in on the Poison Garden to learn a bit about medieval medicine, walk around the lake to take in the outer reaches of the castle grounds. Then, yes, climb the steep stairs up to the top and kiss the stone! You won’t ever forget it!

Ireland’s western coast has so much to offer besides the small list here and it’s all worth it! So, go. Go travel. Go do. Go and explore that great Irish frontier, The Wild Atlantic Way.

brown concrete bridge besides green plants during daytime

We Can Answer…

  • Where should I go in Western Ireland?
  • Where should I travel in Western Ireland?
  • What is there to do in Western Ireland?
  • What is the Wild Atlantic Way?
  • Where should I travel in Western Ireland?
  • What are the best activities to do in Western Ireland?
Alexandra is a travel host and podcaster who focuses on niche bespoke experiences in Europe. Always supporting DIYers and those looking to travel in modern small group style. You’ll find her spending extensive time in Krakow, Poland when not back in the States. She has a Master degree in European History and has been an art teacher for years but now focuses solely on enhancing travel for others.
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