Elizabeth Thorpe of Poshbrood shared her exciting plans to go to Dordogne over Spring Break with me last night; our conversation reminded me how much I adore this region of France. It’s not widely known as a tourist destination — surprising, as the Dordogne is brimming with wonderful attractions and scenic villages to explore.

Our last visit was with three boys under 11. In addition to our fantastic farmhouse dinners and zip-line adventure, we all adored the village and castle of Beynac above the Dordogne River. This stunning attraction is an excellent subject for this week’s Photo Friday post.

We’ve visited many castles in Europe and the Fortress of Beynac is one of my absolute favorites for kids and adults alike.

The views of the surrounding countryside and Dordogne River are exceptional.

The castle is well-maintained and atmospheric. It’s easy to imagine what it was like to live here hundreds of years ago. It’s staged just enough to make the castle come to life, but not enough to make it feel contrived.

Big doors, dark and dank spaces — all the castle essentials are here.

The 12th century chapel, Notre-Dame de Beynac, is a mesmerizing sight perched on the edge of a cliff.

If you are dreaming of the Dordogne be sure and catch Budget Travel’s feature about where we stayed as part of their Best Places You’ve Never Heard Of report. Kristi vacationed in the Dordogne last summer and fell in love with the seriously kid-friendly Le Chevrefeuille.

For more Photo Friday posts go to Delicious Baby.

Photos by Amie O’Shaughnessy

Relevant Links:

Ciao Bambino recommended family hotels in France

Rick Seaney is the CEO of the airfare news, research, and tracking resource FareCompare.  This website is always my first stop before booking tickets as it provides instant price and route information through multiple channels at once to easily compare and contrast options.

Rick is an incredible source of industry information and insight.  I interviewed him earlier this week for his take on the important airline industry happenings that will impact family travel in 2012.

FareCompare Getaway Map

What are the major airline industry updates planned for 2012?

A big change happened just last week.  Airlines now have to disclose the entire flight fare inclusive of taxes and fees to consumers in published prices. If they don’t, they can incur a stiff fine. This new rule will help travelers get to the real price quickly so they won’t feel hoodwinked.

We may see an expansion of benefits for trusted travelers like allowing liquids and shoes for people giving up information.  Customs services will be expanded as well to let these people get through the customs process faster.

I saw President Obama speak in Florida a few weeks ago. He’s making a pitch to develop programs to accelerate travel into the US from foreign nations. We haven’t seen this kind of promotion of the US as a travel destination for 10 years.

FareCompare offers a valuable service where travelers can receive alerts when fares fluctuate. This is helpful for families because when you multiply even minor price differences across multiple tickets, the savings can be substantial.

What are other tips to keep pricing down when traveling with kids?

Kids’ Discounts

First of all, most kids under 12 receive a 10-25% discount on airfare. European carriers tend to be more generous than US carriers with family discounts.

For the most part, most airlines treat teens as adults so there is no break there.

Baggage Allowance

Bags are not as big of an issue with international flights as the allowance is bigger and fees are included in the fares. As far as kids are concerned, every now and then there are special deals for kids. Usually, families have to travel before mid-March and after the last week in August to get them.

Timing

The cheapest airfares are from Monday through Thursday for transatlantic flights. One tip is to fly during this period for at least half the flight to reduce costs.

Note that traveling before the last week in March, the last week in May, and during the last week in August (or later) can save hundreds in dollars in airfare.

Routing

When we fly to Europe, we like to fly to the East Coast first and hang out before continuing on our trip. The pricing can be less than buying one roundtrip ticket to Europe, especially if you can fly a low cost carrier in the United States.

Ireland is the cheapest country to fly into. Spain and Switzerland also cost less than other countries in Europe. Rome, Paris, London are expensive — at Healthrow the tax alone is $200 per ticket compared to $150 at Gatwick and $83 in Dublin.

Use Low Cost Carriers in Europe

Save money by traveling like a native in Europe and using Low Cost carriers for internal flights. FareCompare doesn’t concentrate on the low cost carriers in Europe like Easy Jet and Ryan Air.  We partner with Skycanner who has broad coverage of low cost carriers.

What are the destinations that are the best bets for affordable airfare this spring and summer travel season?

If you look at seat capacity, Florida in the US is the best bet. There are many flights landing in an array of cities, including Southwest who has started flying to the Panhandle.

For coast-to-coast travel, Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) are good bets this year because Virgin America is strong and driving costs down for these markets.  Meanwhile, Boston and New York City will be expensive this year, as is Canada where there is strong demand and no pricing deals at the moment.

In general, flying to the Caribbean costs more than Mexico given the ongoing security concerns there. Costa Rica is sky high right now. Better deals can be found to the Bahamas and Puerto Rico.

Are there any tips for securing better pricing for business class fares?

The new world order is Premium Economy and lots of airlines are adding more seats in this class of service; pricing is $1,800 to $2,000 where a typical Business Class seat runs $4,500 per ticket.

If you really want to fly Business Class, the best way is to use Loyalty Programs to redeem a full ticket or get an upgrade award.

Most airlines offer a discounted First Class fares with a 45 or more day advance purchase. To secure the fare you must buy the ticket well ahead of time and it is non-refundable.

What is the optimal time to buy tickets to Europe from a price perspective?

Transatlantic fares are the least expensive one to 5 months before departure. Typically, you don’t want to shop earlier than this to optimize pricing.

Oil prices should continue to remain in the $90-100 range so they will not be a variable in airfares this year. The best you can do for travel to/from Europe is $690 round trip.  Any ticket for $1,100-$1,200 round trip for June and July departures is a great deal as this is the peak period.

Daddy daughter adventure in Costa Rica

What is your favorite destination with your family?

It sounds trite but my favorite destination with my family is all varieties of Disney.  We’ve had fun at Disneyland Paris three times and at the Orlando and LA versions a half-a-dozen times.  Anytime I can go to Disney on a quick trip we go. For ages 5-10 it is the best place to experience the world through a child’s eyes.

Our 11-year-old’s favorite city is Florence, Italy. We love going to Europe as a family — our daughter has pushpins on a map showing all the places she’s gone in the world. It’s cool!

Relevant Links:

26 countries in 365 days with Wandermom

Meet Pauline Frommer

Meet Eileen Ogintz

Meet Erica Ehm

Meet Melissa Biggs Bradley

Meet Wendy Perrin

Flying with kids, avoiding airline fees

Tips for Award Travel and Upgrades

Essential tips for traveling long distances with a baby

Many families prefer renting apartments in European cities as they offer more value and living space than traditional hotel rooms.

My issue with apartments is that standalone units can be a quality risk unless you are diligent about checking references (see my post on finding the best family-friendly vacation rental for more tips and links to resources). Moreover, the management of an apartment may be nonexistent which leaves you without someone to help with planning and logistics in a foreign environment.

This is the exact reason we don’t profile many standalone apartments or villas on Ciao Bambino, but instead prefer to recommend managed options where guests have access to amenities and resources.

One such option in Florence is via Windows on Italy, an agency owned by the Ferragamo family.  Many of the apartments offered are owned by the agency versus individual owners; they are decorated and serviced with care. It’s a perfect middle ground for families who want apartment living and reliable quality.

The only thing to figure out is location and style – as the units are spread across Florence.  I’ve seen many of their properties over the years, we’ve had readers stay in them, and I stayed in one last year.  Favorites include: Della Robbia, Michelangelo (where we stayed with a small terrace overlooking the Duomo) and Cellini.

At the time of inquiry, be sure and make clear that you want something age-appropriate which means minimal stairs and dangerous obstacles for babies and toddlers as older buildings in Florence may have hazards. Apartments are available for short and long term rentals, although minimum rental requirements vary by unit.

If an apart-hotel where units are centralized  is more appealing or you’d prefer to stay in a hotel with full amenities and staff, be sure and check out our Florence family-friendly hotel recommendation list.

Editorial Note: This is not a sponsored post. We’ve sent many happy clients to Windows on Italy over the years. I was given complimentary lodging last year so I could experience one of their units myself. I was not asked to express a particular point of view. As always, we never personally endorse anything on Ciao Bambino we don’t believe in and would recommend to a friend.

Relevant Links:

Ciao Bambino recommended Florence family hotels

Things to do in Florence with kids

Most popular family-friendly itinerary in Italy

Family-friendly luxury in Florence at Villa La Massa

Fantastic personal chef in Tuscany

Art and culture camp for kids in Italy

If it’s possible to be infected by a country … I am.  Ever since we returned from our trip to Turkey, I just can’t seem to let it go.

I’ve supplemented my fascination by reading multiple historical and fictional books about this country. With beautiful cookbooks in hand, I’ve been whipping up wonderful Turkish dishes capped off by Turkish coffee.  Although if truth be told, my family has about had it with this!

What’s so appealing?  Straddling Asia and Europe, Turkey is an intriguing, rich, and exotic destination.  Not only is it culturally interesting, but Turkey is serene and beautiful.  Every day I learned something unexpected. Our visit was truly a mind-opening experience! Our trip last summer was without our children, but I’d love to return with them in tow.

10 Reasons Why You Will Love Turkey

Hagia Sofia in Istanbul

Historical Epicenter

From the earliest times Turkey has been at the heart of our civilization. The history is palpable and a visit sweeps you right into to the days of the Romans and Ottomans. The ruins in Ephesus and other locations throughout the country bring you close to its ancient heritage.

Religious Education

This was our first stay in a predominantly Muslim country. With 1.6 billion Muslims in the world, I felt compelled to gain a better understanding of this religion. The Hagia Sofia mosque highlights the critical religious role Istanbul has played throughout time and offers a stunning visual lesson in religious history.

Village woman selling her textiles in Sirince

People

The people of Turkey are a welcoming and expressive people.  Like Italians, Turks adore children. Kids are everywhere. Often you’ll see dads lifting and kissing their children. It was a joy to watch families interact. As a guests, you are honored in Turkish culture and everywhere you turn people are welcoming you to their country.

Rituals

Whether it is the call to prayer echoing through the air, the pre-prayer pattern of washing, or the ritualistic scrubbing at the hamman, the rhythm of the culture is alluring and beautiful to observe.

Jams in a local market

Food

Flavorful spices, fresh cuisine and delicious sweets will delight your palate.  The food is healthy, fresh and fun to eat. Indulging in the Turks’ well-known passion for sweets is a delight.

Markets

From the chaotic Grand Bazaar to the exotic Spice Market, you get a glimpse of energetic local life when you step into these markets. The wide array of unique offerings makes Turkey a wonderful shopping destination. Apple Tea, Red Pepper Paste, Hand Hammered Copper dishes, jewelry, ceramics and of course, the rugs — all make fabulous souvenirs!

Inside Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

Inspiring Design

Geometric patterns and brilliant colors incorporate Asian, European, and Moorish design.  Some neighborhoods are reminiscent of France or Italy, while others feel distinctly Middle Eastern.

Diverse Landscape

From the forested rugged north to the gorgeous arid coastline of the south, the variety of landscapes provides a diverse area to explore with a wide variety of activities.  Some regions have unusual rock formations, like Cappadocia with its towering chimneys.

View from Marmara Bodrum Hotel

Water

Turkey is surrounded by water and nowhere do you feel that more than in Istanbul as the city is perched along the romantic Bosporus.

The elegant Turkish Riviera is both stylish and low-key.  The water along the coast is amazing clear, making our four-day boat trip a glorious escape comprised of basking in the sun punctuated by refreshing dips in the sea.

Stimulating and Relaxing Destination

My favorite destinations are both culturally stimulating and relaxing. The ruins, cities, and gorgeous coastline together ideal vacation combination.

Photo courtesy of Nancy Solomon

Relevant Links:

Istanbul, Turkey for Photo Friday

Ciao Bambino recommended Europe Family Hotels

Traveling with kids in Asia on the Ciao Bambino Blog

This post is sponsored by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. All the thoughts and opinions conveyed in this post are my own. My only regret is that Switzerland is so far from Hawaii; after writing this post, I’m ready to hit a Hawaiian beach!

I’ve enjoyed some of the world’s most incredible islands including Mauritius, Bora Bora in Tahiti, and Bali. All are fantastic in one way or another, but Hawaii remains at the top of my list for the ultimate tropical escape with kids.

The Hawaiian Islands have the exotic elements of a foreign locale and none of the hassle; you don’t need a passport, everyone speaks English, and you can eat and drink worry-free.

Hawaii is one of those destinations families revisit year after year. It’s astoundingly diverse. Visitors can have radically different experiences within a single trip. Each island has unique ecosystems and related activities. I’ve been to all the main islands — Maui, Kauai, Hawaii, Oahu, Lanai — and appreciate each of them for different reasons.

Moreover, the huge advantage of Hawaii from a family perspective is the sheer array of accommodation options available from beachfront villas, to amenity-rich condo resorts, to lavish luxury hotels.

Favorite lifetime sunset on Maui

How to Choose?

Deciding where to go in Hawaii is the planning challenge. I’ve highlighted my take on the differences between each island below. I’ve also mentioned a few accommodation favorites from Ciao Bambino’s Hawaii family hotel portfolio.

Maui

The last time I was in Maui I experienced a sunset so spectacular that I can still picture it vividly today. The daily ritual of watching the sun go down on the West Shore of Maui is the ultimate cure for stressed parents.

Although Maui is very developed, the trade-off is that it offers extensive tourist infrastructure for every taste and budget. Wailea is upscale with stunning beaches, excellent shopping, and hosts a few of Hawaii’s best luxury hotels. For families, the Fairmont Kea Lani is a steady Ciao Bambino reader favorite with exceptional kids programming and activities.

The other popular coastal stretch for families is around Kaanapali Beach as it hosts a huge number of accommodation options including a plethora of condo-hotels like Kaanapali Alii where units have full kitchens and laundry. Hip Travel Mama raves about the new Honua Kai Resort and Spa and its aquatic playground for kids of all ages.

My happy little man on the beach in Kauai

Kauai

I adore the old-school vibe of Kauai and the lush landscape. There are pockets of Kauai that are as exotic as any place I’ve visited in the South Pacific and Asia. Hawaii-based writer Kris Bordessa wrote a guest post for us on things to do with kids in Kauai — these photos tell all.  The landscape of Kauai is nothing short of astounding.

Poipu is a spectacular beach area with sunny weather. For value, we love Kiahuna Plantation; condos are spread across endless flat grass — toddler heaven!  Plus, you are walking distance to the adjacent mall where you can get a daily Puka Dog — my favorite Hawaiian treat.

Jennifer Miner of The Vacation Gals raves about the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. It’s been 10 years since I’ve stayed there, but I have fond memories of their outrageous views and elaborate pool.

If you don’t mind a bit of rain, the North Shore of Kauai is stunning, rugged, and an adventure paradise. One of our readers sent us a review on the luxurious Koloa Landing condos with exceptional furnishings and services for this category of accommodation.

Oahu

Many people associate Oahu with busy Waikiki when in truth there is so much more to this island than this urban stretch of sand. It’s absolutely possible to escape the crowds on Oahu.

Moreover, given the number of flights that go in and out of this island, it can be the best bet for finding affordable airfare.

The star of the show these days for families is Disney’s new Aulani Resort. Kristi was there for the opening and reports that this resort has something for everyone. Disney did an excellent job integrating Disney themes and quality standards with local culture and traditions. Read Kristi’s complete Aulani review for details.

I also must mention Turtle Bay on the North Shore of Oahu. I haven’t stayed here in a few years but would go back in a heartbeat. Ocean view means ocean view here and the waves crash right below guest rooms versus other properties where ocean view is code for bringing binoculars.

Picture perfect toddler sand pool at the Fairmont Orchid Resort

Hawaii

The big island of Hawaii is a striking place with a black lava landscape and emerald blue water. If you want to get close and personal with a volcano, this island is for you as Kilauea is still spewing lava and ash.

The West Coast of the Hawaii is optimal for families with a long list of exceptional accommodations. For luxury seekers, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is idyllic with the usual laundry list of top-notch Four Seasons amenities and services. Special features include an amazing saltwater lagoon with over 4,000 fish.

I grew up going to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and many families return to this property religiously year-after-year. The bay here is one of the most beautiful I’ve seen on any island. Hawaii’s stand-out hotel options also includes the Fairmont Orchid with a wonderful protected swimming area for families as it has minimal waves. You can also get to the Hilton Waikoloa Village for their famous dolphin experience program from any of these West Coast hotels.

If you have plans to visit Hawaii this year, Aloha! I’m jealous.

This post is sponsored by The Hawaiian Islands, where you could be Living in the Moment on Hawaii Island.

Navigating a ski resort in Europe is not an intuitive experience. Many of the resort areas are vast and comprised of multiple ski areas within a single destination. Language barriers create additional complexity.

Last week’s Photo Friday post featured Grindelwald in the Jungfrau Region of Switzerland. Grindelwald is a stunning winter destination and the ultimate Swiss Alps ski experience. Due diligence, however, is required to ensure you experience more pleasure than pain. It’s worth it!

A few things to know and consider:

Finding Beginner Ski Terrain

Bodmi

Unless your kids are accomplished skiers, it’s essential to understand where to find the beginner terrain. In Switzerland, these slopes are identified on ski maps in blue.

Note, however, that blue runs are usually not optimal for true beginners or very young children. What’s nice about Grindelwald is that they have an area called Bodmi that is dedicated to true first time skiing for kids and adults alike. Bodmi has a magic carpet going up a gentle slope and a button lift up a slightly higher, easy slope. This area is filled with kids skiing and sledding.  There’s a rental shop and ski instruction right at the bottom of the hill.  It couldn’t be more family friendly!

The other nice thing about Bodmi is there are no advanced skiers here so families don’t need to worry about being run over or into — the number one concern when skiing with kids.

As luck would have it, Ciao Bambino Approved Hotel Bodmi is just steps away from this kid-friendly wonderland. I just stayed here for a second time and recommend it highly for comfortable, clean, and friendly accommodations run by a charming Swiss family. Read my review for details and to get best pricing using our availability button.

Blue Runs

The Jungfrau Region includes three lift systems: Grindelwald – First, Kleine Scheidegg – Mannlichen, and Murren – Schiltorn.  Welcome to skiing in Europe. Each one of these areas is vast and can occupy ski enthusiasts for days at a time. On this trip, we only skied at Grindelwald – First, however, the tourist office has confirmed that there are significant blue runs within each lift system.

Transportation

Transportation Between Ski Areas

The transportation network in Grindelwald is extensive and relatively efficient. A train, bus, or gondola is required to move from one lift system to another and this can take time.

HOT TIP: You can buy ski passes that incorporate all three lift systems in a daily pass, but I wouldn’t bother with kids. There is plenty to do within any one of the single ski areas and going back and forth is logistically intensive.

If you are visiting the region for a week, you can experience all the different areas. Grindelwald – First and Kleine Scheidigg are 30-minutes via train or gondola from one another. It’s significantly more complicated to get over to Mürren just for the day as it involves a few transfer points. My recommendation is that you stay in Mürren when you ski in Mürren, even if this means switching accommodations during the week.

Transportation Within Ski Areas

At Grindelwald First, it’s only possible to ski to the base via red runs (intermediate). Depending on where you are staying, this will most likely involve skiing to a place where you take a bus back to your accommodation. Busses run every 30-minutes or so depending on the period.

Ski Passes

A one-day ski pass for kids ages 6 to 15 is 31 CHF per day. Weekly passes are available. As a rule, the kids passes are 50% off the adult passes and ages 16 to 19-year-olds can access passes at a 20% discount off the adult pass price.

HOT TIP: You can buy a special package on Saturday where kids up to 15 ski free with their parents! The crime is I was just there on Saturday and paid for our son to ski (boo hiss). I wasn’t aware of this package. Now you know.

Lessons

One thing that is different about lessons in Switzerland is that there is usually an array of ski schools in larger resorts (vs. just one school like we have at US resorts).  Every village has a an official Swiss ski school and private schools. I can’t comment on the quality of one choice over the other at this point.

HOT TIP: It is important to note that on weekends, it is usually impossible to have a single child join a group lesson. Most group lessons are week-long courses where the same kids join an instructor each day of their vacation.

Private half or full day lessons are available over weekend days. This solution is quite expensive for a single child (more or less 250 CHF for a few hours). If you are traveling with a few families and can coordinate lessons, this is the best way to make weekend lessons cost-effective.

Toboganning

Toboganning is an extraordinarily popular activity in Switzerland. All of the ski resorts in this area have marked toboggan runs and it’s common to see as many people carrying sleds on the gondolas as skis and snowboards.

HOT TIP: There is a 15k(!) toboggan run that goes from Faulhorn to Grindelwald. It is the longest toboggan run in Europe according to MySwitzerland.com. Note, that getting to the top of the run involves a 2-hour hike.  To avoid the long walk, families can take the bus to BussAlp and ride the last 8km of the run.

Lunch

We learned the hard way last weekend when we arrived at the popular (and delicious) Berghaus Bort that lunch can be an insane affair if it is ill-timed.

HOT TIP: Arrive for lunch no later than Noon. Reservations are recommended at any kind of hot spot.

Weather

Grindelwald – First gets more sun from December through early February. In late February through April there will be more sun in the other areas as well.

As a consequence, First can get slushy in the afternoon towards the end of the season and will be the first to close, typically in the middle of April.  Murren is the last to close towards the end of April.

Thrill Seeking Older Kids

Young adrenaline junkies can use the First Flyer zip-line for free with their ski pass. Note that the minimum weight limit is 35 kilograms or 77 pounds. When you see the First Flyer in person, you will understand why this rule is in place.

Relevant Links:

Ciao Bambino recommended Switzerland family hotels

How to find the best family-friendly ski resorts

Thumbs up for family ski chalets in Europe

Summer things to do in Grindelwald with kids

For many families, a trip to a children’s museum while on vacation is typically a compromise of sorts. Mom and Dad sacrifice an afternoon to entertain the kids, when secretly there are other places they’d rather be exploring.

Factor in children that range in age from toddler to teen and the family dynamic gets even more complicated. In other words, it’s really hard to make everyone happy. Hard, but not impossible, for families who include the California Academy of Sciences in their San Francisco itinerary.

California Academy of Sciences

Rich in History

Founded in 1853, just three years after California joined the United States, the Academy is the oldest institution of its kind in the West. That said, this museum is anything but old. Over a three year period beginning in 2005, the Academy was completely rebuilt. Re-opened in 2008,  it’s the greenest museum in the world.

Walk on a Living Roof

It’s really a number of museums housed under one incredible Living Roof, home to more than 2 acres of native California plants. From the construction-design perspective, the Living Roof does amazing things like prevent water runoff and provide insulation, but it also creates a habitat for bees, birds, butterflies and other critters. And on a clear day, you get a great view of San Francisco’s amazing Golden Gate Park.

Out of this World Planetarium

The Morrison Planetarium is the largest all-digital dome in the world. My family was lucky enough to catch two shows during our visit, both equally impressive. Live presenters help you see the planet in a new light, and since the shows are live, no two are exactly the same. Presenters talk and adapt to their audience. For example, if they have a crowd full of families they can make the show more kid-friendly.

The Planetarium is very popular. Tickets are handed out first-come, first-served, at a cart just outside the Planetarium. Go grab tickets first thing when you arrive at the Academy, or run the risk of being disappointed.

Making the history of the universe kid-friendly isn’t an easy endeavor. The Academy recommends its shows for ages 7 and up. Children 3 and under are not allowed, so the family may need to divide and conquer.

Claude the albino alligator

Go on Safari

African Hall offers visitors a unique way to travel the African continent and get good look at some of the animals that call it home. More than a dozen displays use taxiderm specimens from the Academy’s vast collection, while others use live animals. I think the living, breathing and very playful colony of penguins is the show stealer.

Eight year-old Johara from Kentfield, California agrees with me. “It has all these penguins and they’re cute!”

Meet Claude

Claude the albino alligator is arguably the Academy’s most famous resident. In the wild, he’d be a goner, but in San Francisco he’s a celebrity of sorts. A couple years ago when he turned 15, he got quite the party, including cake and party hats. His soft and cushy costume character double is often seem in the Academy posing for pictures.

Happy butterflies in Rainforests of the World

Rainforests of the World

The academy’s living, four-story rainforest is housed in a 90-foot diameter glass dome. It’s incredible to look at from the outside and even more amazing once you’re inside. With average temperatures in the low 80′s it’s also nice place to warm up on a foggy San Francisco day.

Only so many folks are allowed to visit the rainforest at a time, so be prepared to wait in line.  If the family’s debating on what to next and there’s no line, consider yourself lucky and go for it.

38,000 animals live in the Steinhart Aquarium

Steinhart Aquarium

When you leave the rainforest you’ll find yourself in my family’s favorite part of the Academy, the Steinhart Aquarium. It’s home to 38,000 live animals, every color of the rainbow, from around the world. Seadragons, jellyfish, and sharks just to name a few.

The Aquarium’s Philippine Coral Reef Gallery is one of the deepest exhibits of live corals in the world. The Northern California Coast Gallery shows what plays below the surface of San Francisco’s watery backyard.

Sleep with the fish at the Penguins + Pajamas sleepover

Penguins + Pajamas

As you might have already guessed the California Academy of Sciences is a pretty popular place. Anywhere from 2-5,000 people come to check it out everyday. You can escape the crowds if you’re willing to show off your pjs. About once a month the Academy hosts the Penguins + Pajamas sleepover.

Campers get full access to the Academy, plus extras like live animal demonstrations, crafts, late night cookies and milk and a special gift. (No, I’m not going to give away what it is)!

The night my family roughed it in the Aquarium, there were less than 400 people rolling out sleeping bags with us. Less is definitely more. And yes, we actually slept, but I highly recommend bringing an air mattress.

If you spend the night, you also get admittance to the Academy the following day. We spent a fair part of the next day exploring and taking a second look at some favorites, but we still didn’t see everything, so we’ll be back.

Photos courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Dana and her family received complimentary admission to the California Academy of Science’s Penguin’s & Pajamas Sleepover, but as always Dana’s thoughts and opinions are her own.

Relevant Links:

Ciao Bambino recommended San Francisco family hotels

Things to do in San Francisco with kids

Tips for checking out San Francisco’s tourist spots

Zeum San Francisco, a museum your kids will love

Things to do in the Presidio with children

Visiting Angel Island with kids

When you ski in the Alps, you’re skiing mountains not runs. The sense of open space is incredible and one of the things that makes skiing in Switzerland so epic.

Here’s a shot of our 9-year-old Devon skiing in Grindelwald, Switzerland last weekend. Believe it or not, this was taken on a bluebird Saturday, i.e. where are the other people?

It’s not that the resort was not crowded — it was. It’s quite simply that there’s so much skiable terrain that in good conditions, you can always find uncrowded slopes.

The other remarkable aspect of the Alps is the sheer size of the mountains. In the Jungfrau Region, they tower over you at all times. It’s exciting and at times unnerving.

I’ll write a full post with tips for skiing in Grindelwald in the next few weeks. In the meantime, check out more Photo Friday posts on Delicious Baby.

Relevant Links:

Ciao Bambino’s family-friendly ski list

Ciao Bambino recommended Switzerland family hotels

Tips for planning the best family ski vacation

Tips for finding the best family ski resorts

Thumbs up for family ski chalets in Europe

Little ripper ski tips

Off the Beaten Path in Abelboden, Switzerland

Top Swiss attraction, visiting Trümmelbach Falls

Kid-friendly hiking in Mürren, Switzerland

Lake Geneva, Switzerland boat tours

Switzerland tourist attraction resources

Things to do in Grindelwald with kids

Bandos, Maldives. Photo courtesy of Nattu on Flickr

Something about moving into a new year and staring at an empty calendar gets my mind spinning about travel — where to go in 2012?

The first item of business is blocking off precious vacation days. Once that task is complete, the fun work begins. What places are top of mind year?  I put the question to Amie, Dana, Anna and Kristi, as well as to my children.

As my kids are getting older, their input has become more valuable.  When I asked them what places are on their bucket list and I was surprised and interested by their thoughtful responses. Their answers ranged from tracking our family heritage through the Ukraine and Poland, to exploring Mayan history in Belize.  Additionally, they were ready to take on more physical challenges with a multi-sport or biking trip.

Here’s are a few of our kid-friendly vacation ideas — we’d also love to hear from you.  What’s on your 2012 bucket list?  When we posted the question the other day on our FaceBook page, we got great feedback.  Keep it coming!

Kid-Friendly Vacation Ideas

Nancy (kids 12, 11, 8, 4)

Glamping at Paw’s Up in Greenough, Montana

Belize: My older daughter is very interested in exploring the Mayan ruins and would love to go to Belize.  Sun, sea, animals, and history — sounds like a great trip to me!

Croatia: The multi-sport Backroad’s Family Tour of Croatia looks amazing. Croatia seems a bit daunting to plan, so a perfect solution is to let the experts handle the details. I’ve consistently heard great feedback from families who’ve used Backroads.

Southeast Asia: Laos, Cambodia and Thailand offer an interesting culture, lush landscapes, friendly people and thrilling elephant trekking — all the makings for a wonderful adventure. We have been waiting for our youngest child to be a little older to go. Now that she’s almost 5, we are good to go in the near future. The excellent information featured on My Little Swans has my attention.

Farm Stay in Tuscany: I’ve been dying to do a week in Tuscany at a farm.  My concern with renting an independent house is that it will be too isolated.

I’m looking for a way to experience the simplicity Tuscan village and farm life. A family-friendly working farm, with a luxurious pool of course and delicious food, fits the bill.  Our Tuscany portfolio has many agriturismo options —  I’m on the hunt for just the right place.

Glamping: Saying that my husband is not a “happy camper” is an understatement.  Yet these two “glamping” (glamour-camping) resorts, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara and Paws Up in Montana, look like they could do the trick.  Comfort and the outdoors all rolled into one.

Dana (kids 11 and 13)

For the record, I consider myself way too young to have a bucket list.  But as the mother of a teen and tween, I definitely have a list of places (in no particular order) I think would be especially fun to go with my girls.

Oia in Santorini, Greece. Photo courtesy of Adrian Zweger on Flickr

Australia : Since my first scuba dive in the Florida Keys, it’s been a dream to dive in Australia. With warm water, and incredible scenery above and below the sea, it’s a dream trip. Both of my girls are strong swimmers and will soon be old enough to dive as well, so it shouldn’t be much longer.

Christmas Markets or “Weihnachtsmarkt” in Germany: I imagine them as everything I like wrapped up in a pretty package. Beautiful lights and decorations, artists’ wares and delicious foods I’ll never find at home.

Greece: Too many historical sights to mention, warm water, sandy beaches, and white washed villages. Greece is my kind of vacation — plenty to do and explore, followed by great beaches to escape to and do nothing.

Grand Canyon: Remember than Brady Bunch episode?  I’ve put off this trip because I wanted the girls to be old enough to ride a mule to the bottom of the Grand Canyon near the Colorado River and spend the night. Now I just need to find time on the calendar to make it happen.

Alaska Cruise: Whales, eagles, seals, glaciers and so much more. Everything about the Alaska wilderness sounds incredible. Catching a glimpse of the aurora borealis, or the northern lights, would be part of the itinerary.

Kristi (kids 7 and 9)

Blue Footed Booby in Galapagos Islands. Photo courtesy of Derek Keats on Flickr

Wisconsin: I spend a couple of weeks in Wisconsin every year visiting family but I’ve never experienced the top family-friendly resorts in the area.  I have my eye on the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva. It has a year round waterpark and a ski hill in the winter.  The Kids are Grand program has scheduled programs for kids ages 4- 17 every day of the week.

Yosemite National Park: Yosemite will be our first national park visit as a family and hopefully the beginning of a life-long love affair with the US National Park system.

Galapagos Islands: I went on a Galapagos Islands (Ecuador) cruise with my parents when I was a study abroad student in Quito; it was the most memorable trip that we took together.  The wildlife and natural rugged beauty of the Islands is unforgettable. I’m ready to share this adventure with my kids!

Anna (kids 8 and 6)

Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière in Lyon, France. Photo courtesy of Amie O’Shaughnessy

Lyon: The city of Lyon in France is a fabulous base for winter skiing and also an amazing city break. My kids will love exploring the Traboules, secret passages that criss-cross the city, and Lyon has wonderful parks and museums.

Rhodes: You don’t visit the Greek island of Rhodes for the beaches, but it has some fantastic luxury family resort hotels, and is within a few minutes of Rhodes town, a pretty ancient walled city. This looks like a great place to catch some soft European winter sun.

Amie (kid 9)

Nancy is right. There is something about the start of a new year that gets all of us thinking about new destinations. As usual, I’m going big.

Skiing in Davos Klosters, Switzerland. Photo courtesy of Davos Klosters tourism

Botswana: After our incredible family safari experience in Kenya and Tanzania last year, I’m ready for another animal adventure. Botswana has an extremely diverse and rich ecosystem. The trick is finding kid-friendly lodging and service providers. Stay tuned!

Davos Klosters: We’re heading to this iconic Swiss ski mecca in March. Rumor has it that in Davos Klosters the skiing and activities are as fantastic for kids as they are for adults.

Dubai: While we are living in Europe, a visit to Dubai is a must. Sand skiing? Not your average family activity. I can’t show Devon pictures of the waterslides yet because that will be that — I’ll never hear the end of it until the trip is planned!

The hotel choice is overwhelming and many seem closer to amusement parks than hotels.  The Ritz-Carlton is more our speed and the brand does a great job with kids. I heard all about the Ritz-Carlton Dubai’s extensive kids program at ILTM this year. All sound fabulous!

Maldives: The Maldives has been a steady entry on my bucket list every year. Monique’s post about her Four Seasons stay pushed it back to the top of the list. The blue and clear water looks absolutely insane. Plus, there are those nasty predictions that it might disappear forever in the not-to-distant future. Time is of the essence.

Sardinia: This is one of he few popular tourist destinations in Italy we haven’t covered on Ciao Bambino. Sardinia is rumored to be gorgeous (hopefully the environment will not suffer ill effects from the recent Costa Concordia disaster).

I’ve struggled with hotel research in the past but I have what looks like two excellent candidates to visit on my list: Forte Village Resort and Chia Laguna Resort.

I’m not a golfer but I know there are families who consider it wonderful all-family activity. This is a Sponsored Post by GolfNow.com with some ideas on where to golf with kids.

When you plan a golfing trip, you’ve got to keep your kids’ interests in mind. To have the best family vacation, you need to visit a place that caters to the needs of everyone — a golf course for you, and something exciting for the spouse and kids.

Some of the most wonderful golf resorts now have open arms policies for their tracks. They even offer lessons to kids. Who knows, your kids might be the next champion tour players!

Let’s look at some child-friendly golf courses where you can have fun with your little ones.

Photo courtesy of Fairy Heart on Flickr

Acme, Michigan

There are three Michigan golf courses that go through wetlands and forests at Grand Traverse Resort. The best part is that all of them are open to children if they are accompanied by adults. You might want to skip the Bear Course as it is not designed for novice players, but Spruce Run is a great place for kids. Or better yet, try the practice hole of the resort that is made keeping kids in mind. It also offers tennis, swimming, biking, and boating. Plus, it has camps and fly fishing schools.

Farmington, Pennsylvania

The Nemacolin Woodland Resort Links follow the rules of U.S kids’ golf system. The resort has an adventure center where kids can have fun with a zip line, paintball games, and a climbing wall.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

If your kids love amusement park and chocolates, you don’t have to spend time to persuade them. Have a ball at the Hershey Country Club, where kids can have unlimited chocolate and a lot of fun.

The Spring Creek Golf Course is made for girls and boys under the age of 18, and it spans nine holes.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head is home to one of the heritage tournaments of PGA tours, and is a haven for amateur golfers. You can also try the Sea Marsh Course that adjoins it. It offers special tees to shorten the course. What’s more — it keeps gold stars and score cards for kids. After having a few rounds of golf, you can hit the beach with your kids.

Hot Springs, Virginia

The Homestead Resort’s Old Course was made in old style in 1892, which means there is a lot of room to smack that little ball around, with a lot of precarious points for its landing. Kids are most welcome here, and they can try their hand at golf. And after the game, they can lounge in hot springs before going for a ‘cookie and cream’ scrub at the spa.

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Known as American Mecca for golfing, Pinehurst has eight 18-hole golf courses. You are most welcome to bring kids along, and there are golf lessons for kids of all ages.