Since before our son could toddle, he’s been traveling alongside my husband and me. We’ve bundled him, backpacked him, and “Bijorned” him on boats, planes and automobiles. 

We’ve trekked together across many continents, and explored cities and deserts nearer home, instilling in all of us, a love of exploration and renewal.

Our family odyssey has taught us invaluable lessons — some profound, some hilarious, and some that smelled suspiciously like goat. Here are seven big takeaways from our travels that extend far beyond the school gates.

Curiosity creates lifelong learners

Young people sometimes show a premature weariness with life — it’s all algorithms and eye rolls. But the world outside WiFi is endlessly fascinating.

Our son’s curiosity exploded in the best way possible once he saw how kids lived around the world. We’ve watched pre-teens hunting for food with their parents in Africa, seen children clean their classrooms in Japan, and youngsters fish at dawn, in the Amazon.

In Fiji, we looked on in awe as children made music with found objects, showing a deep resourcefulness and creativity we rarely see at home. My son learned an invaluable lesson that day; when there’s no toy shop, you must make the toys. 

All our minds have been opened many times — and honestly, if my son ever loses interest in TikTok, I’ll credit the children of the Andes.

Confidence comes from climbing, not clicking

True confidence stems from real achievements and a sense of being capable. While American society often promotes confidence, it sometimes leans into a “fake it till you make it” mentality. The idea of posing in front of someone else’s Maserati doesn’t build genuine self-esteem.

True, hands-on experiences create a deeper sense of accomplishment and identity, and travel is a short-cut to that. It’s important your kids, partner, and family see you trying new things, solving problems, and having fun — whether it’s figuring out where to buy sunscreen, replacing lost contact lenses, or picking the perfect picnic spot.

Our family has learned this first hand during our travels. We’ve all faced moments of uncertainty and confusion — wondering where to catch a bus, deciphering signs to find waterfalls, or trying to figure out opening hours in another language. Tackling these challenges together has given us a “we’ve got this” attitude. 

Empathy needs no translation

In this digital world, connecting both to nature and to people has never been more important. I’ve watched our son connect to a Masai tribe in Tanzania and to a woman carrying a small goat in Peru. I’ve looked on as a beautiful lady served our son soda in Japan and admired our son’s gratitude in receiving it. 

I’ll never forget the time, high up in the Andes, a group of women grabbed him as he ran up the stairs to greet them at 12,000 feet altitude, and then nearly fainted in their arms as the lack of oxygen hit. They wrapped him in blankets and made him a cup of cocoa. 

It was extraordinary to see him give himself over to this tribe of mothers without a word of English being spoken. It takes a village, sure — but sometimes it also takes an Andean auntie with a flask and a good sense of humor.

Think outside the goldfish bowl

Fixed perspectives can suffocate potential and understanding but shopping at a busy weekly market, doing laundry at a local laundromat, or trying a food that might be considered a pet (side order of guinea pig anyone?), creates not just curiosity but also empathy. 

We’ve been to a cat park in Lima, Peru, and there was a shared sense of joy, peace and play with every human and creature in the area, and, in Madrid, a history-filled whole roast suckling pig dining, remains a family highlight.

In transit, we’ve had to visit a local eye doctor (Austria and Spain), a tailor for to fix a camera bag (Zimbabwe), and a local electronics shop to fix an iPad (Japan), which were all adventures of their own. 

And it’s not just kids who can learn. Camping is not my first choice of a vacation but when my son wanted to go, I rented an RV and it turns out, that for a few days, I can enjoy life in a mobile home. And yes, I brought half my house for a three-day camping trip. And yes, I used all of it. Don’t judge.

When the plan becomes cereal in bed

Life doesn’t always play out as it should and neither will your vacation. Things screw up, everyone makes mistakes, and sometimes things are less than the photo presented. We learned as a family how to research, leap, pivot and that sometimes it’s okay to go back to your room to sleep and wait to get out to the next place. 

On a walking trip through Japan, after a day that saw us hike at a high elevation for 7.5 miles, from Matsuzaki to Hiroshima, the three of us ended the day snuggled in our room, enjoying bowls of cereal in bed, instead of a group dinner. 

While exploring the Dolomites, a magical hiking day turned into a mad dash down the mountain when torrential rain clouds arrived with lightening. It felt like an episode of The Amazing Race to return to the tram to hitch a ride down before it closed for the day. Travel is chaos with a sense of direction, and learning to pivot is part of the package.

Adventures lead to smarter choices

Many people often have an unrealistic understanding of what’s safe and what’s risky but travel can teach us valuable lessons about making sound decisions and clearly navigating through life.

In Africa, when our son asked if he could stand and put his head out of the roof of our Jeep, our guide responded: “There are few rules out here in the Bush, so do what you want. I’ll tell you this however, the nearest doctor is six hours away and he is a shaman. The nearest doctor the way you are used to it is a plane ride away, so choose your actions carefully.” He sat down.

On a Japanese commuter train, we watched everyone clean up before they departed, and now we’re just as committed to always leaving our public areas just as tidy when leaving.

You can tell your kid to watch their phone until you’re blue in the face, but it may take being in a group when an adult is pickpocketed, such as happened to us in Spain, for them to take notice. 

Coming home with new eyes — and heated toilet seats

There’s a huge amount of joy in budgeting for a trip and anticipating the adventures that lay ahead – but mistakes happen. 

I once had to return a bunch of scarves to a Japanese museum gift shop because I’d wrongly calculated the exchange rate. And that’s fine because we also found joy in unexpected places; for example, we learned that the Japanese use heated toilet seats, and so my husband purchased one as a souvenir!

Returning home after traveling makes us fully appreciate the comfort and security of our everyday lives. These moments of gratitude, mixed with the excitement of our adventures, inspire us to value what we have and think about how we can protect and share these experiences for future generations.

From the peaks of Patagonia to the canyons of California, our journey continues. But the real treasures? Curiosity, resilience, empathy and an unshakable belief that cereal in bed sometimes beats fine dining.

Pack light. Laugh often. The world is waiting — with snacks.

Margot Black is a Los Angeles-based travel writer, mom and founder of Black Ink PR.

The post 7 Life Lessons Kids Learn from Traveling the World appeared first on L.A. Parent.

My family and I have not stepped inside a zoo for many years, but when we had a collective slice of time last Saturday morning, we headed to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to take a safari excursion and get a peek at the park’s new features.

In L.A., we charged up our car and let our newly licensed 17-year-old son, Sol, take the wheel for the 2 1/2-hour drive. On the navigation screen, he punched in the address — 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido — but before he pulled off, I handed him a foldable, laminated Rand McNally map of Southern California so that he could visually grasp where he was going. We live so much on the inside of our screens that our sense of spatial awareness continues to slip away.

Sol opened up the flaps of the map. “Wow, how much did this thing cost?” he asked, incredulous.

“It’s not an ancient relic,” I said. “It was $9.99 and I got it from Staples.”

“Wow,” he said again, his eyes wildly scanning the spread-out map, not knowing where to land.

“Find Los Angeles first,” I said. “Then, go south to find San Diego and Escondido, but take a look at all the towns we’ll pass through first before we get there. It’s like a preview of the drive, and it helps you get your bearings, I think.”

This quick exploration of our route was a prelude to our day of learning through excursion.

Jurassic Park vibes

We had not visited the San Diego Zoo Safari Park since Sol was in elementary school, but driving into the the park, with its jungle-like canopies of trees, elicited a refreshing familiarity. “It makes me want to watch “Jurassic Park” when we get back home,” my husband, Marcus, said.

“Well, Steven Spielberg was influenced by the Safari Park,” our guide, Delaney, told us. The entrance to the fictional Jurassic Park in the movie echoes the entrance to Safari Park, which was opened in 1972 and serves as the sister location to the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. The Escondido-based park, which mostly houses animals from arid environments, spans more than 1,800 acres that dip and rise like the savannas in Africa and Southeast Asia. It is home to more than 3,100 animals representing over 340 species.

Safari Excursions

While visitors have always been able to enjoy watching the animals by boarding a tram, Safari Excursions is the newest structure at Safari Park. Arriving a little early for our “cart safari” tour, my family and I lounged in the open-air, immersive gathering spot designed with a nod to a Kenyan safari camp, with exposed wood beams, lush greenery, wooden stools, rich textiles and bright wall paintings and textiles.

We listened to the sounds of birds and insects float in and out of the cool, airy space, allowed the photographer to take a family photo of us and discussed which animals we each were excited to see. While we were just a party of three, the lounge area can easily fit large groups of people at one time.

The safari excursions are an additional cost after the paying for park entrance. Options include:

Cart Safari – guided 1-hour cart tour of park highlights for $82 per person

Wildlife Safari – guided 1-hour tour in the back of an open-air truck that rides inside a savanna wildlife habitat for $118 per person (ages 3 and up).

Deluxe Wildlife Safari – For 90 minutes, guests get to venture into habitats representing Africa and/or Asia for up-close views of wildlife for $143 per person (ages 6 and up).

Behind-the-Scenes Safari – This guided 90-minute tour takes you to areas not available to the public, with opportunities to get up close to wildlife for $118 per person (ages 3 and up).

Behind-the-Scenes: Elite Adventure Safari – Here, guests can explore the park on a 3.5-hour tour to learn about how staff cares for wildlife, then hop onto a safari truck and tour the savanna. Some walking required. Cost: $80 per person (ages 3 and up).

We opted for the cart safari, hopping on the cart with a chatty and extremely knowledgeable Delaney as she drove us first around the “Asia” savanna before looping around the outskirts of “Africa.” We marveled at the massiveness of the rhinos and elephants, envied the lions lounging across fields of grass, waved at Frank the gorilla as he rested his foot on a tree stump and watched us watching him.

I asked Delaney how animal activists in recent years have responded to the safari park. While some activists believe that all animals should only live in the wild, in their original habitats, others — after taking a more intimate safari tour — develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the park’s role in conserving endangered species and extending the life of vulnerable animals through extensive healthcare even while aiming to replicate the animals’ natural environments.

One such success story is Msituni,a four-year old giraffe born at the park who was unable to walk. After months of critical care that included giraffe-sized orthotic leg braces, she gained the strength to walk around 11 months old. We watched Msituni and her older and taller fellow giraffes munch on twigs while Delaney explained that their enviably long eyelashes help keep flies and gnats out of their eyes.

Another source of great pride is that park is home to the rarest breed of horse in the world: the Przewalski’s horse — a critically endangered species of wild horse that was categorized as extinct in the wild until 1996. In recent years, scientists have used tools such as San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Biodiversity Bank to expand the strength of the species’ population. 

Roar & Snore: Glamping with Wildlife

Speaking of eyes, if you love the parks so much you’d like to close your own eyes and spend the night our in the wild, consider checking out the new “Roar & Snore” glamping option. The premium tents feature a queen-sized bed and two portable cots to comfortably sleep four.

The tents overlook the savanna habitat where rhinos, giraffes and other wildlife roam freely. The adults-only option allows guests to explore the park after dark, enjoy classic camp activities and hear stories about San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation work around the globe. Cost: $245/person

Unique Safaris

If you like wine or beer with your safari, you’ll want to check out these features:

Sips on the Savanna: Wine Wildlife Safari, Mimosa Wildlife Safari and Craft Beer Wildlife Safari. Enjoy sipping a delicious beverage among the wildlife of the African savanna. Begin with a meet and greet mingle and your first drink in a souvenir aluminum glass. Next, board a covered, open-air safari truck and venture into an expansive habitat for up-close views of giraffe, antelope and more. Then it’s off to a breathtaking viewpoint for more drinks and savory snacks while taking in the sights and sounds of African wildlife.

Note that Wine Wildlife Safari is offered in the winter, Mimosa Wildlife Safari is offered in the summer and Craft Beer Wildlife Saffari is offered in the fall.  

Another unique option is the Behind the Scenes: Wild Cat Adventure. Guests can spend the morning visiting the wild cats of the Safari Park. See the park’s wild cats, peek into some of the wildlife care areas to learn what it takes to look after these diverse cats and hear stories about the park’s current conservation projects while traveling in a tour cart with a personal guide. 

Cassandra Lane is Editor in Chief of L.A. Parent.

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Summer is nearly here — have you planned your family’s getaway? Experience Oxnard, the perfect beach town where OX Marks the Spot for your budget-friendly escape with beautiful beaches and immaculate SoCal vibes.

Best Oxnard Beaches

Nestled a beat past Los Angeles up Highway 101 lies Oxnard, equal parts vibrant and laid back. The city offers seven miles of uncrowded beaches, waterfront dining, and tons of budget-friendly fun for everyone.

Silver Strand Beach is a local favorite for good reason. This mile-long stretch is tucked between the Port Hueneme Naval Base and the Channel Islands Harbor, making it a prime spot for surfing, sunbathing, kayaking or fishing! 

Did you know Oxnard is home to Hollywood Beach? Well, it is! Legends like Clark Gable and Rudolph Valentino were known to hang out in the area and add to this beach’s historic charm. Now open to the public, it’s perfect for days of sun and surf.

‘Rocks’nard – For the Music Lovers

Yep, you heard that right! Oxnard strikes the right chord with its music scene. While you’re hear, kick back and enjoy the sounds of summer.

Start with the Heritage Square Summer Concert Series in historic downtown Oxnard. Bring a blanket, a picnic and catch live R&B, Latin jazz and classic rock under the stars. Then catch the summer Concerts by the Sea on Saturdays and The Collection at Riverpark on Thursday nights for live sets by the shore. 

Throughout the year, Oxnard keeps the party going with the Jazz Festival, California Strawberry Festival and Salsa Festival.

Free and Affordable Oxnard Activities

Drums Tour: DW Drums’ world headquarters opens its doors to give visitors a peek into crafting their renowned drums. The tour even includes a quick tuning lesson. Call (805) 485-6999, ext. 450, to secure a spot before your visit.

Channel Island Kayak Wildlife Tour: Explore the Channel Islands Harbor by kayak, meet “Chippy” the life-sized pygmy mammoth and keep an eye out for sea lions, starfish and pirate treasure!

Channel Islands Maritime Museum: Collections of maritime paintings, ship models and artifacts, including one of the largest ship models made of bones, await museum visitors. Admission is free for kids under 18.

Classic Car Shows: Cruise into nostalgia with Downtown Oxnard’s Summer Car Show and Cruise Nights on second Fridays from May through July.

Best Eats in Oxnard

 The Strandwich: The perfect spot to grab a bite by the beach, surrounded by “Nardcore” punk memorabilia.

Cafe Dolce Vita: If you need coffee before you can have thoughts, try this cafe in Downtown Oxnard. Get your coffee fix and a sandwich or a macaroon! Who says a SoCal beach vacation can’t have international vibes??

Fisherman’s Catch: Fisherman’s Catch is the best place to get coconut shrimp, calamari, lobster and more — all caught daily and at prices that make the food taste that much better.

The Annex Food Hall: The ultimate “something-for-everyone” dining destination, with 13 food vendors and shops nearby!

Honeycup Coffeehouse & Creamery: Coffee, smoothies and ice cream, oh my! At Honeycup, you can have it all, including ice cream handmade by a master chef!

Where to Stay

Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach weekend or a luxury escape with the whole crew, Oxnard has just the place to rest your sandy feet.

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach was named the No. 1 Best New Hotel in the U.S. by USA Today’s 2024 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards. This all-suite beachfront resort rivals spots like Terranea in Palos Verdes and the Ritz Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. If you want luxury with kid-friendly amenities, more room to breathe and less of the price tag, Zachari Dunes delivers. It’s where oceanfront elegance meets relaxed family fun.

Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor brings the waterfront vibes. It sits on the scenic boardwalk, between the beloved Toppers Pizza and Peninsula Park (home of the Concerts by the Sea series). With two easily accessible public docks just steps away, it’s a breeze to launch a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a fun, family-friendly day out on the water.

For the sporty family, Staybridge Suites features Dallas Cowboys Training Camp memorabilia in the lobby and gives fans of America’s Team something to brag about. River Ridge Golf Club is conveniently next door.

Prefer something with homier comfort? Homewood Suites is perfect for longer stays with apartment-style living, basketball courts, BBQ grills and freeway convenience.

Book Your Stay in Oxnard Today!

Angelenos looking to escape the heat and crowded beaches will find cool ocean breezes and laid-back vibes right up the coast. Why shell out more elsewhere when you can soak up the sun for less in Oxnard? Plan your stay at https://visitoxnard.com. Then pack your sunscreen, grab the kids and get ready to discover where OX Marks the Spoton a memorable family vacation.

The post Escape to Oxnard This Summer to Explore These Activities, Best Eats and Places to Stay appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Looking for an easy escape from L.A. for spring break? Las Vegas is a quick road trip or flight away. With temperate springtime weather, Vegas is a perfect getaway for families seeking indoor and outdoor fun. 

Here are five of our favorite family-friendly Vegas picks this spring:

1. Shark Reef Aquarium: Dive Into Underwater Adventures

The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino will celebrate its 25th anniversary this summer with special events and activations. For now, visitors can view displays with more than 3,400 creatures from 140 species, including 14 types of sharks within 1.6 million gallons of water and 14 exhibits. Guests also can “dive” into the ocean depths through the immersive Undersea Explorer Virtual Reality theater. For an extra fee, kids (and adults) can feed sharks, sea turtles and stingrays. Tickets: $24 and up.

2. Sphere Experience: Futuristic Fun for the Whole Family

If it’s in your budget, Sphere is worth the splurge. At The Sphere Experience, guests can chat and even crack jokes with the world’s most advanced humanoid robot, Aura, and marvel at a 50-foot holographic wall. Included in the experience is a screening of “Postcard from Earth” from Academy Award-nominated director Darren Aronofsky.

The sci-fi-meets-nature, 4D film features seat haptics with active movement sensations, flashing lights, visual and sound effects and atmospheric simulations of fog, scents and wind. (Pregnant women and those with sensory sensitivities should consider whether it’s for them. Accessible seating is available upon request.).

Word to the wise: Lower seats are best if you tend to get queasy. In addition, Sphere’s spectacular spring lineup of multi-sensory entertainment features immersive concert film V-U2, plus shows by Dead & Company with John Mayer, the Eagles and Kenny Chesney. (Backstreet Boys will take the stage in July.) Tickets: $95 and up, depending on the type of event.

3. Family Pools and Movie Nights

Las Vegas resorts are renowned for their lavish pools, and poolside time is a fun way for families to spend Vegas downtime together. Non-gaming (aka no casino) resort Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas offers a high-class, low-key vibe for its hotel guests, with chaise lounges, cabanas and two pools (one for families, one for adults). Bonus: Parents can indulge in a range of restorative poolside massages while staying within earshot of splashing kids, including chair massage, chaise-lounge massage and traditional table massage in an open-air or private cabana. Try the signature Relaxation Massage, the Cabana Cool Stone Massage or the Lounging Around Focus Massage. 

For extra relaxation or should the temps soar, cooling collagen masks are applied, along with nourishing massage oils and tropical scrubs to create an aroma sensory experience by the resort’s expert therapists (Dear reader: The massage I experienced on a scorching day last July from Alexandra was one of the best of my life). Guests come away refreshed — and with a small gift. “Our pool therapists always add a special touch by giving guests a little wellness takeaway so they can remember their massage experience they had at the pool,” says the resort’s spa director, Michelle Wilkos. Pricing: $200 and up. 

MGM Grand Pool, open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., features 6.5 acres of elaborate water fun, including four swimming pools, three whirlpools, cascading waterfalls and a lazy river (until 5 p.m.). Pool bars serve tropical drinks and poolside fare (and massage) is available. Cost: $50/all-day access per person; additional fees for food/drinks, poolside seating and cabanas. Free entry and seating for MGM Grand guests, depending on availability.

Resorts World’s Family Pool at its mega pool complex features a playful water attraction to cool off younger kids amid giggles. Reopens in May. Free for hotel guests.

To kick off pool season, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is offering Dive Into Bleau rates, with up to a 20% discount on hotel stays and a $50 daily resort credit. The Oasis Cinema Club at Oasis Pool is back every Friday starting May 2, featuring favorite family flicks such as “Barbie,” “Inside Out 2,” “Toy Story,” “Avengers: Endgame” and “The Incredibles” projected on a poolside screen. Enjoy a menu serving tasty takes on concession classics. Admission: $10 for non-hotel guests; free for Fontainebleau Rewards members, hotel guests and kids 5 and under. Daybeds and cabanas available for a fee. Tickets here.

Dive In Movies at The Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool, the Strip’s rooftop poolside (or in-pool) movie night, returns weekly on Mondays beginning May 19, inviting families to enjoy classic and recent blockbusters on the resort’s 65-foot screen, along with stellar views of the spectacular Las Vegas skyline. Premium daybeds and cabanas can be reserved with a food/beverage minimum. Admission: $15 for non-hotel guests, $10 for locals. Free for MGM Rewards members, hotel guests, first responders and military. Tickets here.

4. Beachy Vibes

At Mandalay Bay Beach, an 11-acre aquatic playground on the Strip, families can ride tides in the wave pool, play in the sand, flow along the lazy river under refreshing waterfalls, lounge in a lagoon, chill in a cabana and more. The Beach Bar and Grill offers bites and drinks at three bars. Cost: $30/weekdays; $40/weekends all-day access per person; additional fees for food/drinks, seating and cabanas; free for hotel guests.

5. Top Thrills: High Roller, Zip Line and Iconic Vegas Rides

Thrill-seeking kids and parents who want adrenalin-pumping fun can enjoy breezy aerial views while experiencing the highest amusements in Las Vegas (and even in the world).

High Roller Observation Wheel & Fly LINQ Zipline

The High Roller Observation Wheel is 550 feet high and is the tallest Ferris wheel in North America. The experience features 28 spherical (and, yes, air-conditioned!) cabins for up to 40 guests, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows for 360-degree Las Vegas views Extra fun: At night, the wheel glows, with changing colored lighting synced to hit songs. The full-rotation ride lasts 30 minutes. Tickets: $10 and up, free for kids 3 and under.

Bold ones can soar on the Strip’s only zipline, Fly LINQ. Riders launch from a 12-story tower and fly 1,121 feet from Las Vegas Boulevard, down The LINQ Promenade and finish at the High Roller at up to 35 miles per hour. Tickets: $49 and up; some discounts apply.

The Big Apple Coaster & Arcade

The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York is the first in the world to include a 180-degree “heartline” twist and dive. The heart-pounding ride speeds up to over 67 mph — with twists, turns and loops, whizzing by Strip views. Catch your breath (or wait out the ride) at The Big Apple Arcade for family-friendly games. Tickets: $25 and up.

The Strat Tower

Four of the world’s highest rides are located in one place at The Strat in Las Vegas. The Tower (at 1,149 feet tall) is the highest observation tower in the U.S. Your bravest family members (at least 4 feet tall) can free fall 855 feet at 40 mph on the SkyJump or catapult 1,081 feet up — and down — on the Big Shot. Riders beware: G forces are real. (The X-Scream dangling teeter-totter is currently down for maintenance.) For a more mellow, but still breathtaking experience, you can enjoy unparalleled views of Las Vegas and beyond at the sky-high indoor and outdoor observation decks, plus food and drinks at the highest dining spot and bar in Vegas. Tickets: $21.95 and up.

Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck

If you’re in Vegas, but your heart’s in Paris (oui, c’est moi!) or you just want to take in an iconic, high-altitude experience with your family, you won’t want to miss out on the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at the Paris Las Vegas resort on the Strip. A half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower landmark in Paris, France, the tower takes guests 46 stories (541 feet) high for 360-degree views. Mirroring the nightly, glittery illuminations of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Las Vegas attraction also offers a synchronized twinkling, colored lights event for all visitors to see for free on the Strip. The light show happens every night for 30 minutes from sunset to midnight. Tower tickets: $19 and up; some discounts apply.

There’s so much for families to enjoy in Las Vegas, aka “Disneyland East.” For more family-friendly ideas, including deals, visit Visit Las Vegas for the latest and greatest.

The post Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Las Vegas This Spring appeared first on L.A. Parent.

My husband and I spent a night at this Indian Wells resort in early December and it was the perfect getaway to help us reconnect and recharge.

The resort features 215 guest rooms and villa suites designed with the signature Tommy Bahama tropical feel and set on 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. There are three saltwater pools and the resort’s Spa Rosa featuring desert-inspired treatments. The surrounding Santa Rosa Mountains is your stunning backdrop.

We left L.A. around 8:30 a.m.and by 10:30 a.m. we were sitting under a canopy of olive trees sipping an ice latte at the resort’s signature restaurant and bar, Grapefruit Basil. The relaxation begins quickly here.

Unique Features: Lots of outdoor pathways, gardens, fire pits and cozy nooks. The wonderful fragrance of citrus trees accompanies you throughout the resort. We took several long walks, read by the pool and had coffee in a quiet nook above Grapefruit Basil.

The Fun: I typically head to the desert to relax. There is something about being surrounded by the mountains and the warm sun that calms all my senses. Spending 24 hours at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort and Spa was a mini sabbatical from my life of work and family responsibilities.

I found a quiet spot by the pool with an actual book (not a device) and simply savored the tranquility and beauty all around me. I walked around the resort amongst the citrus grooves and flower beds. My husband and I grabbed a drink and sat by one of the fire pits and just talked with no interruptions. Sometimes you don’t realize how much you need a getaway until you find yourself under an olive tree watching the sun set.

While I was looking for complete relaxation, there are lots of other fun activities in and around the resort—bocce ball, golf and a 24-hour fitness center. You can also venture a little further to catch the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway, visit the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, shop at the Desert Hills Premium Outlets, go hiking or rock climbing.

Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort and Spa is located at 45000 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells, CA 92210. For more information, visit tommybahamamiramonte.com

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Captivated by the gritty, breathtaking landscapes of popular show “Yellowstone?” An authentic dude ranch in Quincy, Calif., Greenhorn Ranch, offers a chance to experience a similar natural beauty. 

Located just an hour and a half from Reno in the stunning “Lost Sierras,” this authentic guest ranch, California’s last of its kind, immerses guests in the heart of western charm and adventure. For more than 60 years, Greenhorn Ranch has welcomed visitors to its 608-acre oasis getaway, offering expansive, rugged beauty rivaling  the magnificent landscapes of “Yellowstone.” Guests can unplug and reconnect with nature in one of the newly renovated rustic cabins, a cozy lodge room or a refurbished Airstream trailer.

The all-inclusive experience at Greenhorn Ranch features gourmet meals by Chef Brian Doyle, along with casual trailside cookouts encapsulating the western spirit. The vast acreage provides plenty of opportunities for adventure: horseback riding, mountain biking, fly fishing and more. Guests can end their day unwinding at The Saloon with drinks, line dancing and live music. 

Open from May through October, Greenhorn Ranch offers an unforgettable western getaway set against the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Lost Sierras. Consider adding it to your list of 2025 travel adventures. Learn more at greenhornranch.com.

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Beginning Nov. 30, Metrolink is bringing back its specially ticketed Holiday Express Train with stops in Anaheim (Nov. 30), Riverside (Dec. 7), Simi Valley (Dec. 14), Santa Clarita (Dec. 15) and Redlands (Dec. 21). Each holiday train is filled with festive fun, from dazzling decorations to beloved holiday characters, carolers and special guests.

The magical journey begins at each location with a welcome event an hour before boarding time, featuring pre-departure activities. Once on board the train families can partake in kid-friendly activities, giveaways, crafts, music and a visit from Santa during their 70-minute roundtrip ride.

Opening weekend is sold out, however tickets for Riverside, Simi Valley, Santa Clarita and Redlands are still available. Tickets start at $20. More information is available at metrolinktrains.com.

Check out our Santa sightings and holiday lights roundups for more family-friendly events to get into that holiday spirit.

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Looking for a festive getaway this holiday season? Fortunately, we Angelenos don’t have to travel far for a change of scenery. From holiday-themed performances at San Diego’s Old Globe theater to family-friendly cruises on Mission Bay, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a quick weekend to our neighbors down south.

A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place San Diego

Join Jingle Bell Elf, Burt, Ernie and the rest of the Sesame Street friends for a Grand Illumination Ceremony, where the park’s 24-foot-tall Christmas tree comes to life with thousands of twinkling lights. For more holiday magic, experience Elmo’s Christmas Wish Show, the Sesame Street Christmas Cavalcade and an all-new holiday-themed menu at Dine with Elmo & Friends. A Very Furry Christmas runs now through Jan. 5, 2025. Included with park admission.

SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration

Grab a photo with Santa at Santa’s Village, join Mrs. Claus for her Christmas Parade, experience Donner and Blitzen’s Lazer Light Show, catch the nightly interactive tree lighting ceremony, savor some hot chocolate and other festive treats and more. If you’re in town on Dec. 14 or Dec. 31 you can also see A Christmas Wish Fireworks Show. SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration runs now through Jan. 5, 2025. Included with park admission.

Holidays at LEGOLAND

Guests can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit by training to become an elf at the new Elf Training Academy, taking “elfies” with the all-new LEGO® elf characters, Ivy and Frode, or mastering their jolly good dance moves at the new Holly Hype Dance Party. And don’t miss the North Pole Postal Service where guests can mail letters to Santa by dropping them in a special mailbox, where eager elves will ensure they make their way to the North Pole. The elf fun continues as you stroll through the park where you’ll be greeted by the iconic three-story-tall twinkling LEGO Christmas tree built out of more than 364,481 LEGO® and DUPLO® bricks. Holidays at LEGOLAND is open select days through Jan. 5, 2025. Included with park admission.

Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Holiday magic at San Diego Zoo Safari Park includes photos with Santa, illuminated Safari Park-themed tree and Bridge of Lights, live music, sweet treats and more. Join Safari Parker for ‘Twas the Night Before Wild Holidays, an interactive storytelling experience ending in a wintery finale. Wild Holidays is open select nights Nov. 29-Jan. 5, 2025. Included with admission.

Jingle Belle Cruises on Mission Bay

Hop aboard a Whoville-inspired William D. Evans sternwheeler and cruise along Mission Bay for a holiday-themed ride. The family-friendly cruises include a welcome hot cider, candy bags for the kids, face painting, balloons, crafts, carolers, photos with Santa and more. Don’t forget to stop by the lobby at The Bahia or Catamaran resorts to see the beautiful Gingerbread House Displays. Jingle Belle Cruises depart from the Bahia and Catamaran resorts Dec. 20-24. $45 per person.

Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas at The Old Globe

Renowned regional theatre complex, The Old Globe, presents beloved holiday musical, “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” for its 27^th year. The family favorite show is for children ages 3 and up. However, the 10:30 a.m. performances are all-ages and children under the age of two are free. Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! performs Nov. 6-Dec. 31. $78-$127.

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

The 54^th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights returns with its 2024 theme, Peace on Earth, featuring approximately 80 decorated boats with dazzling light displays. Starting at Shelter Island the holiday boat parade makes its way to Harbor Island, The Embarcadero, Seaport Village and The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park before ending its journey at Ferry Landing on Coronado. San Diego Bay Parade of Lights runs Dec. 8 and Dec. 15. FREE.

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By the Catalina Team

A Family Adventure at Catalina White’s Landing
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature at Catalina White’s Landing, a new family camp nestled along the largest beach of Catalina Island, just off the coast of Southern California. This idyllic getaway is designed for families looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures and create unforgettable memories together. 

Discover the Natural Beauty of Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a hidden gem of Southern California, offering stunning landscapes, charming rocky hills, wide sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Families staying at Catalina White’s Landing can explore what the island has to offer, with activities such as kayaking, hiking and wildlife watching. Whether it’s taking a peaceful morning walk along the beach or an exciting boat excursion to discover marine life, you’ll be mesmerized by the charm and beauty of the island. 

Sleep Under the Stars in the Heart of Nature
At Catalina White’s Landing, you’ll share your passion for the great outdoors with your loved ones. Whether you stay in a cozy beach cabin or a ready-to-camp tent, your accommodation is thoughtfully placed within a stunning natural setting. Fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up recharged, ready for a day full of adventure. It’s the perfect way to escape for a weekend and enjoy fantastic vacations. 

Travel Light, Camp Comfortably
Reconnect with your summer-camp memories and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Fully equipped tents and beachside cabins include cozy beds with extra blankets and pillows, some equipped with kitchen essentials and an optional linen and towel package is as well available. This allows families to travel light and focus on their experience. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed for comfort, providing the perfect blend between a rustic and cozy experience. Families who decide to take the all-inclusive package will also enjoy three meals a day, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy your stay. 

All-Inclusive Family Camp
For the ultimate stress-free experience, the camp offers an all-inclusive family camp package. This includes three meals a day buffet-style, and an activity program tailored for all ages. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the family camp package ensures you have everything you need for an unforgettable vacation and for you to create lasting memories. 

Littles Trappeurs: Morning Adventures for the little ones
At the camp, children can participate in the Littles Trappeurs activities, a morning adventure designed to embrace their adventurous side. Supervised by an experienced camp instructor, children will build tipis, go on treasure hunts and initiate at bows and arrows. These outdoor focused activities provide a perfect opportunity for parents to unwind and enjoy some relaxing time, while knowing their little ones are having fun. 

A Typical Day at Family Camp
Let us take you through a typical day at the family camp. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the main lodge, where families gather before embarking on a day filled with adventures. Kids can enhance their creativity with the Little Trappeurs program, crafting adventurers’ books, while parents can enjoy a run along the beach or some quiet time. After a hearty lunch, the afternoon offers various options, from relaxing on the beach to participating in volleyball tournaments or exploring nearby trails. As evening falls, families enjoy the breathtaking sunset, followed by a nice dinner, and end the day with an outdoor movie under the stars, by the sound of the waves. 

How To Get There
To reach the camp, we recommend taking a ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, Newport Beach or Dana Point to Avalon. From Avalon, you’ll catch a short water taxi ride directly to Catalina White’s landing camp, where your adventure begins. We recommend booking your ferry tickets and water taxi in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival. 

An Unforgettable Experience
Whether it’s seeing dolphins for the first time among your loved ones or sharing stories around the campfire, Catalina White’s Landing is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. In other words, this island retreat is the ideal getaway for families looking to escape and reconnect with what truly matters.

Want more information? Call Catalina White’s Landing at (657) 204-5526 or email catalina@huttopia.com.

After that, let the fun begin!
#VisitCatalina #FamilyCamp #FamilyGetaway #CatalinaIsland #ExploreCatalina #VisitCalifornia #BeachSide #BeachCamping #CampLife

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“1-0!” hollered the ref — a hotel employee named Karla — after a sleeve-tattooed dad spiked the ball. Water splashed from the blue raspberry ICEE-hued infinity pool at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. The mom yelled, “Get it, Axel!” and “Esther, pass!” Excitement was high at the “Ambassador” infinity pool at as a raucous family of 10 played water polo. 

“It’s a battle! Shoot, shoot!” shouted the grandmother. Later, the grandmother, Lynette, told me she was part of a multigenerational band of three families traveling together. Aww, I thought as I passed a child wrestling an inflatable alligator and two little girls eating potato chips and giggling, in tot-sized cabanas.

With visions of a slower-paced, child-free vacation, my boyfriend and I had left Los Angeles for this all-inclusive luxury resort in Mayan Riviera, located on the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. And while we were certainly romanced through spa treatments, a meal from a Michelin-starred chef and a choice of three pools, the hotel’s flurry of adorable family activities and amenities made us wish at times that our three children were with us.

A grand entrance

Located off Highway 307 is a mammoth, cream-colored wall that has a bridge jutting from the middle of it. On the afternoon of our arrival, it looked so otherworldly that my boyfriend commented that it looked like the “Jurassic Park” opening scene. We crossed the bridge and entered Grand Velas Riviera Maya’s 206-acre compound of jungle and mangroves. “We don’t want you to walk on the grounds. Call a shuttle, and we’ll take you if you need to get anywhere,” our driver said, alluding to the vastness.

We parked at the hotel’s check-in area. Bright letter statues the size of children spelled “SALINAS DAY” before a soaring palapa. Under that was a living room with air gently flowing through it. Our greeter, who offered us champagne, told us that Salinas was the “Jeff Bezos of Mexico.” Business people in tailored suits and lanyards streamed past as we sipped our bubbles and then hopped in a shuttle to see our room.

Exquisite moments

A wooden door the size of a castle’s gate swung open, and the end of the room looked so far away that my boyfriend joked, “Maybe we should call the shuttle if we need to get over there.” The bellhop pointed out the No Me Olvides mezcal on the dresser and told us it was made exclusively for the resort and not for sale at stores or bars. We fell onto the bed and did not miss the bleep-bloops of our kids’ iPads or having to say, “What should we cook for dinner tonight?”

That question was being asked, instead, by Michelin-starred chef Nahúm Velasco one short shuttle ride away at Cocina de Autor. We arrived there for our dinner reservation by walking through a Y-shaped corridor of covered walkways flooded with golden light. In those corridors and at several dinners, we noted that attire rises to the occasion at Grand Velas Mayan Riviera; women wore designer dresses dripping with golden jewels and men sported tailored clothes with freshly shined shoes. Everyone held hands, and so did we.

Cocina de Autor’s all-white décor — from linens to Carrara marble to a midcentury-style screen — lets the dishes take center stage. Our eight-course tasting menu surprised and delighted us, and the results of my request for an all-plant-based course sometimes left my boyfriend jealous. Years ago, when I ate meat, I lived part-time in Buenos Aires, where morcilla is king. Cocina de Autor’s vegan version, which was made with portobello mushrooms, was a divine reproduction.

Mayan traditions

During a property tour the next day, Kevin, the resort’s tour and travel manager, filled us in on some local lore. He divulged that the property was rumored to contain some aluxes, or “little people” of the Yucatan Maya, akin to gnomes or leprechauns. Apparently, the aluxes liked to play tricks. Kevin told us that the workers’ tools went missing for three days when the Grand Velas began construction on the land. Thinking the aluxes might be behind it, the workers built them a little house. “The next day, the tools were back,” Kevin said. Our kids would have liked to hear that story, I thought, wishing they were with us in that moment.

That afternoon, during my 80-minute “Bacal massage” at the two-story, 90,000-square-foot Grand Velas SE Spa, an angel woman named Sim Duy exfoliated my body with honey and rolled me into bliss with an ear of maize. My boyfriend was in another treatment room being massaged with calabash gourds. The spa rooted our treatments in the Mayan and Aztec traditions of using sacred plants to heal. 

Family fun 

A popsicle cart wheeled by us the next day as we read novels and napped by the “Ambassador pool.” I imagined our kids choosing their flavors and finishing with sticky red and blue fingers and mouths, then rolled over and blissfully fell asleep on my boyfriend’s chest. This was a weekday. The kids were in school, and we were in paradise. We’d won a lottery, I reminded myself.

I forgot about our kids all through lunch at Azul, a buffet-style, tiered restaurant on the beach hugged by a panoramic curve of open windows. With bellies full of plant-based sushi, tiny veggie tacos and personal Crème Brulés the size of arcade tokens, my boyfriend and I headed over to the Zen pool near our room for more quiet catnaps. 

On the way, we noticed an on-site karaoke lounge big enough to be a standalone bar if air-dropped into any U.S. town. Its liquor shelf, mammoth TV screen and soft leather sofas created a flirtation between us public-singing newbies (at least around each other): “Would you?” I asked. “Maybe,” he said. “Let’s put a pin in this,” we both said. Then, a little girl in a flouncy dress walked up to the stage, and the lyrics to Frozen’s “Let It Go” rolled down the screen behind her. The performance, of course, melted the girl’s family.

Sing your heart out

We did karaoke the next night. My boyfriend sang Poison’s “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” and I rapped De La Soul’s “Magic Number.” I sang my song as an homage to my 10-year-old son who performed it weeks prior at his school talent show, and I couldn’t wait to see how cool or uncool he would think it was when we got home (flash forward: I got neither answer, but when his face broke into a Cheshire cat grin, it was worth emotional millions).

Our romantic getaway ended the following day, and as we passed the Margaritaville restaurant inside the Cancun airport en route to LAX, we enjoyed one last meal that didn’t require three children squabbling and dragging us all over the food court. We asked ourselves, “Was something missing all along, or did we get the experience we needed?” 

Let’s just say we’re bringing them next time.

Stacy Suaya is a Los Angeles-based writer who focuses on travel, art, design and architecture. 

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