The Catskills patchwork of mountains, forests, and lakes have provided a rural respite for generations of East Coast residents, including my own family. This summer, my husband and I vacationed at an adults-only hotel and spa, Hemlock Neversink. We were surrounded by serenity at the swimming pools and enjoyed calming activities…

There’s something special about the freedom of the trail — the crunch of gravel underfoot, the scent of pine after rain, and the blend of challenge and calm that comes from moving through wild places on your own two feet. But to truly enjoy it, you need gear that keeps…

When it comes to tropical vacations, ocean waves and palm trees exude main character energy. As much as I love the beach, what gives me the most satisfaction are authentic experiences that open a window into local culture. That’s why I went to Maui for a kid’s hula competition.  The…

Staying at family resorts and hotels is always fun no matter the time of year. But when you add in thousands of twinkling lights, sweet treats, festive greenery, and an atmosphere brimming with holiday happiness, that escape just feels even more magical. How much do I love a hotel or…

There’s no such thing as bad weather—only bad gear. Whether you’re hiking through misty alpine trails, bike commuting in a sudden downpour, or just trying to stay dry on a coffee run, a good rain jacket is your first line of defense against the elements. The right shell can mean…

Welcome back to another edition of theme park news! There has been a lot of excitement coming out of Disney Experiences with the arrival of the holiday season, a major transformation nearing its completion at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, as well as the arrival of a brand new cruise ship. I…

It’s easy to love fall in Kentucky. The temperatures are cool enough for a sweater and the changing leaves paint a vibrant scene that I can’t get enough of. My kids, on the other hand, can only look at pretty leaves for so long before they need a change of…

Visiting Christmas markets, seeing your favorite theme park all decked out in holiday style, and baking cookies are all time-honored ways to ring in the holiday season. And if taking a Christmas train ride isn’t one of your family’s holiday traditions, it should be.  Decked out with twinkling lights and sparkling ornaments,…

The holiday season brings with it some of the busiest travel days of the year with millions of Americans hitting the roads and skies to visit family. But what if your holiday travel plans this year had an added layer of thrill? What if instead of arguing over who gets…

Depending on where you are considering to travel next summer, you may have to plan months in advance. If Walt Disney World is on your summer vacation short list, I totally get it — and summer can be a great season to visit. (Photo: Carly Neil, The World of Spark)…