The Wizarding World is going on tour—in 2022! In a collab with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, Imagine Exhibitions is bringing a brand-new Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts to fans around the globe.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition will include fan fave characters from the Harry Potter movie franchise, Fantastic Beasts and the rest of the Wizarding World. The traveling exhibit will feature an up-close behind the scenes look at authentic props, original costumes, and more.
photo courtesy of PR Newswire/Harry Potter: The Exhibition
Peter van Roden, Senior Vice President of Global Themed Entertainment at Warner Bros. Consumer Products, said in a press release, “We are thrilled to be partnering with the experts at Imagine Exhibitions, on this all-new Harry Potter exhibition.” Van Roden added, “Everyone involved with this project is committed to bringing a masterfully crafted newly innovative Wizarding World experience to fans around the world.”
Of the collab, Tom Zaller, CEO of Imagine Exhibitions, said, “We are honored to be entrusted with the iconic Harry Potter brand and excited to develop and share an exhibition experience that celebrates the magic of the Wizarding World.”
The touring exhibition will travel through North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle-East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific Region. While there’s no set start date yet, Imagine Exhibitions will announce the initial venue information in the coming months.
Families living in a refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh are receiving critically needed early education resources. Sesame Workshop unveiled its first Rohingya Muppets as part of its Play to Learn Humanitarian Program. The new characters, Noor and Aziz, are 6-year-old twins that love to learn and play using their creativity and imagination.
The new Muppet characters will be featured in groundbreaking Rohingya-language educational media as part of the Play to Learn program in partnership with BRAC, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and New York University’s Global TIES for Children. Made possible by the LEGO Foundation this program aims to support children and families affected by the Rohingya Refugee crisis. The Cox Baxar refugee camp is home to more than 800,000 Rohingya refugees who fled conflict in neighboring Myanmar. More than half are children.
“Noor and Aziz are at the heart of our efforts to bring early education and learning through play to children and caregivers affected by the Rohingya refugee crisis, who have been impacted tremendously by the dual crises of displacement and the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sherrie Westin, President of Social Impact, Sesame Workshop. “These are two very special Sesame Muppets—for most Rohingya children, Noor and Aziz will be the very first characters in media who look and sound like them. Rooted in the rich Rohingya culture and informed by extensive research and input from Rohingya families, Noor and Aziz will bring the transformative power of playful learning to families at a time when it’s needed more than ever before.”
Noor Yasmin, known as Noor for short, is a 6-year-old Rohingya girl who loves to learn and play. She lives in the Cox’s Bazar refugee camp with her twin brother, Aziz, and their family. Noor loves to make up fun and funny new rules for the games she plays with her friends and family. She is deeply curious about how the world works and uses play to help her understand her world. Her passion for asking questions and finding answers often inspires her and Aziz to try new ways of playing (and learning). She’s a confident girl who believes that there is no problem too big for her to try to solve.
Aziz, Noor’s brother, is a playful 6-year-old Rohingya boy. Aziz is a natural performer and storyteller; he loves to use his imagination to create and act out stories about kings, queens, and animals. His creativity sometimes distracts him from accomplishing a task, but Noor and friends help him focus. He enjoys assisting others with tasks like household chores and values the importance of helping his family and friends. He relies on his sister for support, laughter – and finding new ways to play.
The two new characters, along with familiar Sesame Street friends like Elmo and Elmo’s dad, Louie, will be featured in new video segments on social-emotional learning, math, science, and health and safety. In every segment, the duo will engage in a learning activity centered around the five characteristics of playful experiences that help children learn best—experiences that are joyful, meaningful, actively engaging, iterative, and socially interactive. In partnership with BRAC, video segments will be shared through BRAC’s Humanitarian Play Labs and additional direct services. Facilitator trainings, storybooks, and printed educational resources will accompany the new video segments and be integrated into BRAC and IRC’s direct services in the coming year.
“Investing in learning through play is even more crucial now, where thousands of children affected by the Rohingya refugee crisis, now face the additional unforeseen challenges posed by the global pandemic. Noor and Aziz not only share similar experiences with many of the children who find themselves in this crisis, they will also help these young children to overcome trauma and stress, and build resilience, while engaging in fun play-based learning activities,” said Sarah Bouchie, Chief Impact Officer at the LEGO Foundation. “Learning through play also helps children to develop the holistic skills, including creativity and social-emotional skills, which are vital to survive and thrive in this rapidly changing world.”
In addition to supporting families affected by the Rohingya refugee crisis, both in displaced and Bangladeshi host communities, Play to Learn is also reaching children affected by the Syrian refugee crisis in Jordan and Lebanon as part of Sesame Workshop and the IRC’s Ahlan Simsim program. In both Bangladesh and the Middle East, Play to Learn combines educational media with direct services reaching families in their homes, community centers, and play spaces to infuse children’s daily lives with playful learning opportunities that are essential to their healthy development and empower them to become creative, engaged, lifelong learners. By designing program approaches and educational content that can be adapted for different contexts around the world, Play to Learn is laying the foundation to transform how the world supports children in humanitarian crises, wherever they may be, for generations to come.
Sesame Workshop has created a few initiatives over the past few months in order to teach and support families during the coronavirus pandemic. Sesame Workshop and the LEGO Foundation are partnering to bring you a special Sesame Street episode, Elmo’s World News. Elmo is hosting a pretend news program from his bedroom and he is calling on Muppet correspondents and children from around the world to share the ways they are continuing to play and learn while staying safe.
The 25 minute special episode will air in over 13 languages across the Middle East, Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and more as part of Sesame Workshop’s Caring for Each Other initiative.
Weather Reporter Grover shows how he uses his imagination to “bring the outside inside” by adapting his favorite outdoor activities to create indoor fun. Special Correspondent Cookie Monster tells viewers about his “Things That Make Me Happy” box, a simple activity families can do together to practice mindfulness and gratitude with everyday objects. Reporter Raya shares a playful and interactive update on ways children around the world maintain daily routines, while the reporting team of Basma and Jad pop in with breaking news on how children are managing and expressing their “big feelings” through movement and dance.
“With so many children around the world navigating new routines, it’s more important than ever to give families the tools they need to cope with challenges and foster playful learning at home,” said Sherrie Westin, President of Social Impact and Philanthropy. “Play is critical to a child’s healthy development, and that’s especially true during times of uncertainty. Together with the LEGO Foundation, we can harness the power of play to meet the evolving needs of families everywhere and help them build the resilience that will carry them through these tough times and beyond.”
The Elmo’s World News special joins active Play to Learn programs in Bangladesh and the Middle East supporting children affected by the Rohingya and Syrian refugee crises as well as in South Africa. This initiative provides tools, resources and content for teachers, caregivers and parents to access play-based learning activities that build children’s physical, cognitive, social, creative and emotional skills.
“Play-based education is vital for children’s psychological, emotional, and cognitive health and development, and hones the resilience they need to overcome challenges like our current reality,” said John Goodwin, CEO of the LEGO Foundation. “With more than 1.5 billion children displaced from traditional learning environments, the LEGO Foundation is committed to finding creative solutions to accelerate learning through play amid the pandemic. We are proud to collaborate with our partner, Sesame Workshop, to ensure that children have access to education and develop the critical skills needed to thrive in today’s constantly changing world, and in the future beyond the pandemic.”
Sesame Workshop’s Caring for Each Other initiative was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. SesameStreet.org/caring is regularly updated to meet the needs of families as the situation evolves, with resources designed to help parents provide comfort and manage anxiety, as well as help with creating routines, fostering playful learning at home and staying physically and mentally healthy.
Summer break trip canceled? While most of the world is still reopening in phases, that doesn’t mean you can’t explore the globe from the comfort of your own home. If you’re looking to embrace your wanderlust spirit, keep scrolling to see some amazing ways to take a virtual vacation––all without leaving your house.
Visit the Frist Art Museum for Art History Courses throughout the month of April, tune into The Grand Ole Opry for live streaming on Saturday evenings and check out tons of virtual attractions throughout the city.
Enjoy the beauty of southwest Florida that includes magnificent white sand beaches and the glittering waters of the Gulf of Mexico from the view of the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf resort live cam.
Visit the Texas Hill Country from your living room! Check out the poppies at Wildseed Farm here. Then, head for the impressive National Museum of the Pacific war for a livestreaming history lesson. You can even get your music fix by watching a live performance from world-famous Luckenbach.
The island may be closed to visitors but you can still experience the magic of Catalina virtually. Enjoy live webcam footage of the harbor, underwater views of kelp beds and local fish from the USC Wrigley Catalina Marine Reserve, download educational resources for kids from the Catalina Island Conservancy and peruse exhibition archives from the Catalina Island Museum.
Virtually Israel posts 360-degree videos that cater to a variety of interests, from the beaches of Tel Aviv, to the historic Tower of David in Jerusalem, to a balloon ride over Tel Aviv. Additionally you can tour the Tel Aviv Museum and take a a 360-degree virtual tour of Jerusalem’s Old City.
The Caribbean
Aruba
Aruba Tourism Authority
Head to Aruba and get your fill of relaxing sights and sounds. The Aruba Tourism Authority has created plenty of videos and playlists to make you feel like you're on an island vaycay. Relax with 30 Minutes of Happiness, take a virtual tour of the Butterfly Sanctuary and learn how to make the snack staple, the pastechi. Stay up to date on more fun ways to learn by visiting Aruba's website!
Put travel on your 2020 bucket list, and book some family time at one of these brand-new hotels and all-inclusive resorts. From the much-anticipated new LEGOLAND NYC property to Caribbean resorts that cater to all members of the family, we’ve got the list for you. Scroll through for major travel inspo, and book your getaway today!
LEGOLAND New York Resort—Goshen, NY
Wave the stars and stripes and start counting down to the fireworks! LEGOLAND® New York Resort will hold its bricktastic Grand Opening celebration on July 4, 2020. LEGOLAND New York Resort will be the largest LEGOLAND theme park Merlin Entertainments has ever built, with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions across seven themed “lands” on 150 acres. When it opens on July 4, 2020, LEGOLAND® New York Resort will introduce the LEGO® Factory Adventure Ride featuring the world’s first use of on-ride tracking technology. By identifying the attributes of guests and mapping their position in the virtual space, the ride transforms riders into LEGO® Minifigures right before their own eyes!
You'll have to wait until 2021 to stay on-site at the property as the LEGOLAND New York Hotel will open the following year.
Across from DISNEYLAND® Resort and adjacent to the Anaheim Convention Center, the Westin Anaheim Resort will be a stunning retreat for families vacationing in Orange County. In the heart of the Anaheim Resort District, this newly constructed 618-room hotel is a great central launching point for all Southern California adventures with Huntington Beach a short drive away and both Los Angeles and San Diego within two-hours’ drive from the hotel. Enjoy new guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds® for a great night’s sleep, a concierge lounge plus four innovative and exciting restaurants and bars, including a rooftop bar with amazing panoramic views of Disney’s fireworks.
You won't be able to wait until 2020 for the brand-new Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya to open its doors. It will offer 276 oceanfront swim-up pad suites and flat suites, plus four sprawling Nickelodeon-themed signature penthouses (including your favorite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and SpongeBob SquarePants) perched on the top floor of two modern six-story buildings. All-inclusive luxury means you'll spend lots of time at the 500,000-square food Aqua Nick, which includes a lazy river, water slides, a splash park, an interactive water playground for toddlers and mini relaxation pools.
Located in the rapidly-growing Seaport neighborhood along South Boston’s waterfront, Hyatt Place Boston Seaport District is expected to open in the spring of 2020 with 297 guestrooms. The new upscale select-service hotel will provide guests with close proximity to the Institute of Contemporary Art, Fan Pier, Liberty Wharf and more. Additional hotel amenities will include a rooftop lounge, free breakfast for World of Hyatt members and a 24/7 menu with freshly prepared food.
Located within the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, Hotel Drover is a $100 million, four-star, Marriott Autograph Collection boutique hotel and rustic resort named for the legendary Drovers, who herded cattle along the Chisholm Trail. Hotel Drover will feature 200 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, as well as 15,000 square feet of meeting space and a dramatic, elegant barn for weddings, meetings, and social events. Hotel Drover will boast a true western aesthetic, marrying handcrafted elements with genuine Texas hospitality. The hotel’s backyard will offer fire pits, a lushly landscaped pool area, and paths to stroll Marine Creek.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection—Kamuela, HI
Opening on the tranquil, scenic shores of the Island of Hawaii, the newly-reimagined, family-friendly Mauna Lani Auberge Resorts Collection is set to debut in January 2020—as Auberge’s first in Hawaii. Boasting contemporary guest rooms and suites, five private bungalows, five restaurants and lounges, three pools, a signature spa, a wellness haven, active pursuits, cultural programming and an interactive Holoholo Kids Circle, families will want for nothing as they delight in panoramic Pacific views and revel in Auberge’s gracious service. Taking advantage of Mauna Lani’s storied and sprawling land, the educational and fun kids' programs range from cultural immersion, athletics and wellness, to culinary classes, movies under the stars, moonlight storytelling and navigation.
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is inviting brick fans to #VacationLikeAPirate in 2020 with the announcement of the “Year of the Pirate” including the grand opening of LEGOLAND® Pirate Island Hotel. Located just 130 kid-steps from the theme park entrance, LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel will feature 150 LEGO-filled rooms (including four suites), a heated pool (complete with LEGO soft bricks to build in the pool), hundreds of LEGO models, in-room LEGO treasure hunts and exclusive character experiences. Similar to the popular LEGOLAND Hotel, each room will include two separate spaces: a kid’s sleeping area and an adult area.
Opening early 2020 in downtown Cincinnati, The Lytle Park Hotel, part of Autograph Collection, is an imaginative collaboration between two historic buildings and the celebrated Lytle Park just outside its doors. The property will feature 106 oversized guestrooms, including 18 two-bedroom suites that are perfect for families. Cleverly blurring the lines between park and hotel, The Lytle Park Hotel will boast a central wine and cocktail bar, a fine-dining Italian restaurant and lounge, and Cincinnati’s only four-season rooftop bar and event space offering views of Lytle Park, downtown Cincinnati and the Ohio River.
Long regarded as one of the world’s greatest getaways, Rosewood Little Dix Bay will re-open in January 2020 following a four-year closure due to the 2017 hurricanes. Inspired by its natural setting, the exclusive resort has been reimagined for today’s ultra-luxury traveler with 80 new guestrooms, suites and villas that will offer a level of refinement unrivaled in the Caribbean. Spanning 500 acres on half a mile of beach, the resort will include four distinct dining venues, two pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center and Sense®, A Rosewood Spa set high on a bluff at the cliff's edge. A family-friendly destination, Rosewood Little Dix Bay will offer a wide array of activities including a tennis center, Rosewood Explorers Club, hiking trails, watersports and beach drops.
Opening in December 2020, the Royal Uno® All Inclusive Resort & Spa is a beachfront resort located in the Cancun Hotel Zone. This all-inclusive resort welcomes guests of all ages, and will have five new restaurants serving international, Mexican, Italian and Asian cuisine and offers all kinds of fun including a kids club, plus a kids' water play area, a family room for video games, and more. There are 540 new rooms in total and options include one-and two-bedroom suites with either a private ocean view terrace or balcony, queen or king-size beds. Guests can kayak and sail on the lagoon, and there are plenty of daily activities to keep everyone busy.
Omni Viking Lakes Hotel is scheduled to open on the Viking Lakes campus in fall 2020 in Eagan, Minnesota. The four-star, full-service 14-story hotel will include 320 rooms and suites offering guests first-class accommodations with Omni Kids Crew. The Kids Crew program brings the personalized Omni experience to the youngest guests: Upon check-in, children receive a backpack filled with fun items designed specifically for them. The backpack includes an activity book with stickers, an e-book, crayons, binoculars and a small tabletop game. They’ll also receive milk and cookies delivered to their guest room on the first night of their stay. Omni is also launching a Junior Chefs menu in 2020 (Think unique menu items for kids like breakfast tacos, rainbow yogurt breakfast bowls, a Chinese takeout dish and Jenga French toast). Located adjacent to the Minnesota Vikings’ brand new headquarters and practice facility, the design of Omni Viking Lakes Hotel features elements inspired by the American-Nordic landscapes and the dynamic and unpredictable character of its climate.
The family-friendly Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel is set to be one of the tallest buildings in Manhattan's enchanting Flower District. Set on the former site of New York’s beloved Antiques Garage flea market, the hotel pays homage to the area’s vintage appeal with an immersive “secret garden” design concept. Encouraging guests to “look and look again,” whimsical touches are sprinkled throughout the property, including more than 50 hidden bunny icons. With 341 guestrooms and spacious suites, the property is near Manhattan attractions like Hudson Yards, the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden.
The 2,050-room Dockside Inn and Suites will open in 2020 as the second wave of Universal’s Endless Summer Resort. This coastal-themed hotel is also a value property, with rates starting at $76 per night. Inspired by sand, sea and breathtaking sunsets, this retreat has a coastal vibe and comes with all the fun and convenience of staying with Universal—including awesome hotel guest benefits. With plenty of standard rooms and spacious, two-bedroom suites that sleep six, it’s a great spot for families of any size to base their Universal vacation.
Hyatt House Nashville/Downtown-Sobro—Nashville, TN
At Hyatt House Nashville/Downtown-Sobro, guests can make themselves at home in the heart of Music City. Slated to open in early 2020, the hotel will feature 217 extended-stay rooms with full kitchens or spacious one-bedroom suites spanning 454 square feet. The hotel will be located minutes from many Nashville landmarks, Ryman Auditorium, Bridgestone Arena, trendy restaurants and high-spirited honky-tonks. Hotel amenities will include complimentary breakfast for guests at the Omelet Bar, small bites and shareables at the H Bar, an indoor pool and grab ‘n' go snack at the H Market.
The Gordon Hotel in Eugene, Oregon will be opening in October 2020, will have a significant focus on art and design, and will strive to engage guests with first-hand experiences. A focal point of the lobby will be an "art bar" stocked with art supplies like pencils, watercolors and clay, along with an industrial sink for cleaning up after fits of inspiration or family time creating a unique souvenir. Also, guest hallways will feature local art and interactive pieces, like strings of colorful postcards from previous guests.
The new property will feature 82 rooms and complement the nearby existing 5th Street Public Market (a mainstay in the community) with an additional market alley showcasing local and regional food, beverage and retail shops, including a collection of experiential, craft-focused vendors; an adjacent co-working space; and a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the downtown Eugene skyline.
The Frenchman's Reef Marriott Resort & Spa—St. Thomas
2020 will bring the return of the Frenchman's Reef Marriott Resort & Spa and a new, adjacent resort under Marriott's Autograph Collection, Noni Beach, a St. Thomas Resort. The resort complex located on the Caribbean Sea will provide several distinctive dining experiences for families and singles. The Frenchman's Reef Marriott Resort & Spa, dramatically situated atop a harbor-side cliff with panoramic ocean views, will boast 384 guest rooms, including 28 spacious suites, three resort pools including an infinity edge pool with swim-up pool bar, a state-of-the-art luxury wellness spa, and 85,000 square feet of extraordinary indoor and outdoor event space. The family-friendly resort will have ample activities for kids that will teach them about the environment and how we can help preserve it. There will also be activities for the whole family to enjoy making a stay at Frenchman’s Reef unforgettable.
An architectural beauty surrounded by palm trees, tropical blooms and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, Conrad Punta de Mita provides stunning views from anywhere in the resort. Guests can relax in a coastal-chic guest room, sink their toes in sandy beaches and indulge in premier dining and endless activities. Families will especially love the three outdoor pools, tennis and basketball courts and 24-hour indoor/outdoor fitness center along with land and water activities for all ages.
Opening January 2020, The Ranahan by Welk Resorts is located on six acres of a scenic bend in the stunning Blue River and minutes from the historic town of Breckenridge. The brand-new, ranch-inspired resort pays homage to town’s history as a mining and ranching community through native stone and timber design. Even the name Ranahan is derived from the “Ranny,” the term for a top ranch hand or a good all-around cowboy.
Families will enjoy spacious one- and two-bedroom villas with fully-equipped kitchens, a living room with a flat-screen TV, balcony or patio and fireplace. Amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, lively indoor/outdoor pool complete with slide and splash pad, hot tubs, fire pits plus barbecue stations. The resort’s prime location is across the street from Breckenridge Golf Club and within easy access to skiing, bike trails, fishing, shopping and dining and much more.
Hotel Cerro will be the first full-service, luxury hotel to open in the college town of San Luis Obispo. The property has a variety of room types, from double queens to spacious suites with flexible sleeping arrangements that are great for families. It has a rooftop pool and deck with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The countryside is one of the big attractions of SLO—it has miles of bike paths, hiking trails and family-friendly beaches in nearby Avila Beach and Morro Bay, not to mention stunning Montana de Oro State Park on the coast.
Located in the heart of historic downtown Bozeman, Montana, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants will turn the National Guard Armory building into a 122-room hotel with a signature restaurant, a speakeasy featuring music and live entertainment and 8,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The new Kimpton will also feature a concert hall designed to attract top musical performances, as well as a rooftop pool and bar, where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bridger Mountain Range.
The hotel’s location will attract a broad spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts, with Yellowstone National Park as well as Big Sky and Bridger Bowl ski resorts at its doorstep. In addition to Bozeman’s premier outdoor offerings, which extend to incredible biking trails and fishing adventures, the city is also home to a vibrant art and music scene.
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee—Greensboro, GA
The family-friendly waterfront retreat’s multi-million-dollar renovation has begun and will spring new life into the luxury guest rooms and suites, Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge Level, and guest experiences—all capturing the spirit of effortless lake life. A special focus is being placed on the resort’s youngest guests with the construction of a shorefront family pool and a brand new Ritz Kids center nearby, serving as home base for all things fun.
Holiday Inn Express® Trier is a modern hotel situated on the shore of the River Mosel. In the morning, enjoy a complimentary healthy breakfast in its comfortable breakfast room, then enjoy a 20-minute walk along the river to the city center. The city center is the oldest city of Germany which offers multiple sights and many attractions including the oldest city gate “Porta Nigra”, the old thermal bath as well as the Dome. As with other Holiday Inn Express properties, breakfast is complimentary.
Joie de Vivre and Destination Hotels Beach Resorts—Oceanside, CA
Expected to be completed late 2020, Oceanside’s brand-new Joie de Vivre resort and its sister property by Destination Hotels (both by Hyatt) will make up what will be the largest beachfront development on the San Diego coastline in over 20 years. Fronting Oceanside’s historic pier and sandy beach and within easy walking distance to restaurants, museums and shopping, both properties will offer families a stunning location from which to experience a Southern California beach vacation.
The Joie de Vivre hotel will feature 160 guest rooms and suites – most with private, ocean-facing balconies. Amenities include a restaurant, expansive rooftop pool, meeting space and a public garden. The property also will be the new home for Oceanside’s beloved “Top Gun” house, named for its appearance in the popular movie from the 1980s. Dating back to the year 1887, the historically-protected Queen Anne Victorian is being meticulously restored to its original splendor and will re-launch as a curated food outlet.
Oceanside’s Destination Hotels resort will boast a residential, upscale beach house feel with 226 guest rooms and suites, most with full or partial views of the ocean. Noteworthy amenities include a signature restaurant, an indoor-outdoor bar lounge, a luxury spa, an elevated 9,000-square-foot pool deck and extensive event space, including a poolside living room and terrace.
Set to debut March 1, 2020, in the exclusive resort enclave of Mexico’s emerging Costa Mujeres, just north of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Cancun will offer guests of all ages an upscale and unforgettable all-inclusive vacation. The resort will feature 898 luxury suites, as well as an all-star line up of activities and adventures for travelers of all ages. Children are sure to enjoy the Stars Kids Club, a unique kids club program designed to spark the imagination of younger guests or have a blast at the new JUMP trampoline park. The whole family can channel their inner PGA player at the mini-golf course, wind down the lazy river, zoom down slides at the water park or test out their surfing skills on the FlowRider® surf simulator. Keeping with the Planet Hollywood lifestyle, the new-build resort will be reflective of the iconic '90s brand boasting authentic Hollywood memorabilia and curated entertainment experiences.
The ultimate glamping vacation, Under Canvas, creates an immersive escape that connects travel and nature and encourages being Outside Together. Guests of all ages can fall asleep under the stars, wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy a day of endless activities amongst incredible views of America’s most iconic national parks and monuments.
NEW for 2020, Under Canvas Acadia, 75 lodging tents set on 100 acres, will comprise of more than 1,200 feet of coastline just a short 35-minute drive to the acclaimed Cadillac Mountain Trail and Acadia National Park.
Legacy International Center Resort & Spa—San Diego, CA
Legacy International Center Resort & Spa is located in the heart of San Diego’s famed Mission Valley. Featuring a 126-room hotel and conference center, an International Experience Center, and a 500-seat performing arts theater, this one-of-a-kind resort will become one of the region’s premier family-friendly destinations.
The International Experience Center will feature a dramatic 18-foot-tall interactive globe that gives visitors the chance to learn about different cultures. The Legacy Center’s flight motion simulator attraction will include a thrilling 4-D, 100-seat motion theater, conceived by former Disney Imagineers, where guests can experience “Wings Over Israel,” a full sensory “hang gliding” tour of Israel complete with sights, sounds and scents.
Set your sights for the British Virgin Islands in late 2020 to visit Bitter End Yacht Club after extensive renovations that were the result of the 2017 hurricanes that hit the islands. In the 2020 winter season, Bitter End will debut all-new world-class marina facilities complete with a two-story, open-air marina complex and lounge with expansive views of the North Sound and setting sun. Later in 2020, the club will introduce enhancements to the nautical village including yacht management programs, a casual beachfront restaurant and bar, private event space and an epicurean market for provisioning. Following on the heels of the marina and waterfront rebuild, the resort development will include a variety of unique accommodations and hospitality amenities.
Construction has already begun on a new 127-room hotel with anticipated completion as early as Fall 2020. The four-story hotel, located on a portion of the Chapel parking lot near Copper Road and Ten Mile Circle will consist of 127 guest rooms offering a mix of two queen beds, king beds and suites. With a spectacular panorama of Copper Mountain and the Sky Chutes, the Creekside Hotel will feature an outdoor patio nestled along West Ten Mile Creek complete with fire pits and hot tubs, giving guests a chance to unwind and soak in the views after a day on the slopes. The hotel will be a significant new addition to the resort’s Center Village and will provide easy access to unmatched Colorado adventure.
Alaia Belize, Belize’s first Marriott International Autograph Collection property, is opening December 2020 on Ambergris Caye’s San Pedro Town (dubbed La Isla Bonita by Madonna). The beachfront community resort will sit on over 20 acres and feature a hotel, as well as two- and three-bedroom condominiums and oceanfront villas available for purchase. Alaia will boast world-class amenities for the whole family, including a beach club, rooftop suspended pool and lounge (a first for Belize), full-service spa, fitness center, kids club, dive shop and live art gallery with family-friendly activities.
The Ben West Palm is shaking up the hospitality scene in West Palm Beach as it gears up for an opening in mid February 2020. As the first water-facing hotel in the downtown area, the highly anticipated property will be the ideal launch point for an unforgettable South Florida family vacation. Drawing inspiration from the Ben Trovato Estate, Byrd Dewey’s South Florida home that helped put West Palm Beach on the map, the hotel will reflect its roots with whimsical details throughout the property, like sliding bookcases and edgy fixtures intended to be discovered by guests and visitors.
The hotel will welcome all members of the family, including the four-legged ones, with pet-friendly offerings that include bath amenities like a plush bathrobe to match the human’s, and a special menu for canines. Other family-friendly offerings will include an interactive F&B program that includes weekly chef-led tours to the local green market, where families can pick up a wicker basket at the lobby and follow Chef Andre’s lead to the freshest produce of the day and enjoy a family meal back at the hotel. For a day of exploring, visitors can hop on one of The Ben’s colorful bicycles and pedal to the beach, wander through Rosemary Square and end the day back at the pool, where the kids can enjoy a dip and mom and dad can take in the views with a glass of wine in hand.
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana—Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Hyatt
All ages resort Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana will be part of the greater Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara complex. Located on Juanillo Beach in the private community of Cap Cana, the grand opening date is set for March 2020. In addition to multiple pools on property, there is also a water park that is being built with both kids and adults in mind (large slides, lazy rivers and a splash pad for the little ones). Food and beverage offerings will span fast food, Italian and Asian/Mongolian among others along with an old-school diner offering everything from a robust selection of coffee to ice cream sundaes for kids.
In 2020, the 43-story The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences will deliver a new generation of luxury with dramatic architecture, a 1.5-mile private beach, 35 world-class restaurants, a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the ocean and 795 lavish guest rooms and suites and 231 residences. Adventurous families need only travel next door to its iconic sister hotel Atlantis, The Palm for access to Aquaventure Waterpark with the Middle East’s longest river ride, Lost Chambers Aquarium with 65,000 marine animals, Wavehouse with the world’s first 3-axis rotation VR simulator and more.
An architectural landmark turned luxury hotel, Villa Copenhagen, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts will open its doors in April 2020, offering 390 guest rooms and suites. Set in the century-old Central Post and Telegraph Head Office, Villa Copenhagen holds a prime location next to the famed Tivoli Gardens and the Meatpacking District. Families can enjoy the outdoor heated pool, the private rooftop garden and the uniquely designed courtyard, which will serve as a vibrant social space. Also unique to the hotel are its genuine connection to the city’s history, interior green spaces created to promote calm, well-being, and sociability, and traditional Danish and international dining options.
Set on eight acres of oceanfront in Palm Beach, Amrit Ocean Resort & Spa is ideal for a relaxing family getaway along the coast of Florida. The resort will feature coastal design elements across the 153 guest rooms and 34 grand luxury wellness suites with floor-to-ceiling windows to soak up the unobstructed ocean views from its Singer Island location. Families will also find solace in the 11 penthouse residences (each with private rooftop terraces), ideal for multigenerational families. For parents focused on wellness, relaxation is available throughout the resort from an infinity pool steps from the shore, a four-story spa, and, private beach cabanas, and a full-service salon.
In early 2020, Half Moon, one of the Caribbean’s most iconic resorts, will open a stunning new luxury hotel experience. It will feature 57 spacious accommodations, two restaurants, three bars, a Salamander Spa, a vegan café, an expanded beachfront with a natural swimming cove, an infinity-edge swimming pool and a market café. These enticing new offerings will join the existing amenities that have made Half Moon Jamaica’s top resort, including a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and the Sugar Mill restaurant, which is consistently ranked as Jamaica’s best.
Opening January 2020, the all-new beachfront resort situated on a white sand beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea offers 537 elegant rooms and suites. Now® Natura Riviera Cancun features a modern design surrounded by lush nature including a lazy river, waterfalls and a grotto bar. Guests can enjoy the brand’s signature Unlimited-Luxury® experience, where everything from reservation-free gourmet cuisine to top-shelf spirits is included. Activities and thrilling entertainment for families include an infinity pool complete with a waterslide, a Rollglider aerial ride, and the Now Spa by Pevonia® designed to look like the region's remarkable cenotes.
Cuyama Buckhorn is a hotel in the Santa Barbara County area known as the “Hidden Valley of Enchantment.” It’s a classic motel getting an incredible revamp from two LA designers and is set to be completed in late Spring 2020. The vibe is Stone Barns meets Marfa, meets something like Scribner’s Catskills Lodge. Right now rooms are open on weekends (the café/restaurant is fully open); the pool/bar area and additional rooms, lobby, etc. will be completed in the spring. The road from Ojai to New Cuyama is the only unmarked Scenic Highway in North America—it's a great California road trip to take with kids. The property features double rooms that can comfortably sleep four, and the restaurant features classic dishes using fresh ingredients from farmers in the area. Parents and kids alike will enjoy the pancakes for breakfast or the Buckhorn Burger for lunch and dinner.
The refugee crisis in Syria is getting some much needed educational aid from the place that welcomes all children, Sesame Street.
“Less than two percent of all humanitarian aid funding goes on education, even though half of the world’s refugees are kids,” David Miliband, head of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) told CBS News. Sesame Workshop, the company behind one of the longest-running educational series for kids, has partnered with the IRC to help.
Thanks to a $100 million dollar grant from the MacArthur Foundation Sesame Workshop is producing a new Sesame Street series in Arabic made just for children in refugee camps. The show will revolve around a muppet named Basma, who befriends Jad, a muppet who has just moved into her neighborhood. While Jad is never labeled as a refugee explicitly, there are hints like the fact that he has left behind all of his belongings.
Besides the traditional preschool curriculum that Sesame Street is built on, the series, which is titled Ahlan Simsim, meaning Welcome Sesame, will also focus on teaching kids how to deal with difficult feelings, like anger and frustration, that arise out of their situation. “We want every episode to identify an emotion, but then give really concrete actions so that children can learn what to do,” explained Scott Cameron, a veteran Sesame Street producer who is running this new show.
The series will air in 20 countries in the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf starting in February.
Looking for a family vacation that combines cosmopolitan cool with traditional Southern charm? Say hello to Greenville, South Carolina. Located between Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina, on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville is home to a vibrant culinary scene, emerging arts community, tree-lined, pedestrian-friendly streets and outdoor activities galore. We recently visited this lively metropolis that is dripping with Southern hospitality and came back with plenty to report. Scroll down to see what we discovered, and why Greenville should be on your family’s travel list.
photo: VisitGreenvilleSC
Picnic & Play at Falls Park
Greenville is full of iconic sites, and none is more recognizable than Falls Park on the Reedy. Located in the middle of downtown, in the West End Historic District, this nationally acclaimed park is home to 32 acres of beautiful greenspace, rock-walled gardens, walking paths and scenic overlooks. But the real highlight is the park’s 345-foot Liberty Bridge which is held in the air by a single suspension cable—it’s the only one of its kind in the country! Let your kids lead the way over the curved bridge and through the treetops while you take in the unobstructed aerial views of Falls Park and the waterfall. On a sunny day, this is the place to picnic and play!
Bike & Stroll for Miles!
For families who like to bike, stroll or scoot, the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 22-mile, multi-use trail system that runs along the Reedy River and connects Greenville County with the area’s schools, parks and businesses. Rent bikes at Reedy Rides and hop on this fantastic trail which received the award for America’s Best Urban Bike Path.
Want to give geocaching a try? Within two-tenths of a mile from the Swamp Rabbit Trail you’ll find over 60 active geocaches, with more in the works!
photo: Chelsey Ashford
Hit the Farmers Market
If you’re looking for a fun (and free!) Saturday morning activity, hit the TD Saturday Market. Open May through October, this magnificent market stretches two-blocks of Main Street and is a mecca for regionally sourced fruits and veggies, meats, dairy products, fresh pasta and baked goods as well as cooking demos, live music and kids’ activities. To get the best offerings of the day and avoid the huge crowds, plan to arrive when the market opens at 8 a.m.
If you like the Saturday market, be sure to give Main Street Fridays a try. From March to August, this 24-week concert series features bands from across the region, food and drink, dancing and kids’ activities along a closed section of Main Street. It’s like the pre-party for the Saturday Market!
Go on a Scavenger Hunt
One trip down Main Street and you will notice that art and entertainment take center stage in Greenville. In addition to street musicians playing at all hours of the day, you will find more than 95 different works of art as part of Greenville’s Arts in Public Places initiative. The diverse collections range from towering abstract steel sculptures, fountains and water walls, to hand-painted murals and life-size bronze incarnations of Greenville’s most prominent founders. If your kids love a good game of hide-and-seek, try to locate the different art pieces on the Art Walking Tour or participate in the Mice on Main self-guided scavenger hunt. Nine little bronze mice have taken up permanent residence along five blocks of Main Street as part of a senior project inspired by the book, Goodnight Moon. Follow the clues to find the mice or download a printable version of the scavenger hunt here.
photo: Kristina Moy
Explore, Play & Invent
If you’re looking for an activity to keep your kids busy for hours, head a few blocks west of Main Street to the spacious Heritage Green campus. Here, you will find six comprehensive cultural facilities: the Carolina Music Museum, Greenville Little Theatre, The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, Greenville County Museum of Art, Upcountry History Museum and Hughes Main Library. For kids 12 & under, The Children’s Museum of the Upstate (currently the 10th largest children’s museum in the world!) provides 80,000 square feet of hands-on learning fun, an outdoor playground and a Spark!Lab where little creators can invent, explore and imagine through science experiments, games and activities.
If you’ve got a crew of musicians, be sure to check out the Carolina Music Museum. Housed in a former Coca-Cola bottling pant, this fantastic museum is home to the world-famous Carolina Clavier Collection as well as harpsichords, early pianos and more. Children under 6 are free.
photo: Kristina Moy
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Main Street is Greenville’s main throughway and where you will find an array of boutiques, art galleries and eateries. Stop into Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn and say hello to Rose (she and her husband make over 75 different flavors of popcorn) and try one of her outrageous flavors like Dill Pickle, Cheeseburger or Sriracha. After you’ve had your fill of popcorn, find your way to the Mast General Store. This restored mercantile, which has retail history dating back to 1898, is where you will find everything from clothing, travel gear and traditional housewares to rows (and rows!) of penny candy barrels lined up along the store’s creaky wooden floors. It’s a throwback like no other!
If you want to add extra excitement to your Main Street experience, catch the free downtown trolley that runs year-round from Thursday to Sunday. The red and blue open-air trolleys offer a vintage look and feel, complete with a cow catcher on the front and 35 wooden bench seats inside.
photo: Kristina Moy
Catch a Ball Game
If you’ve got a crew of baseball fanatics, you’ll definitely want to plan a visit to Fluor Field at the West End. The stadium is home to the Greenville Drive baseball team—the A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox—and is a mini replica of Fenway Park, complete with its own “Green Monster.” Single game tickets start at just $9, there’s a fantastic playground inside the park with views of the field and concession stands sell ballpark faves on the cheap. Home run!
Fill Your Bellies with Amazing Food
When it comes to finding delicious food in South Carolina, Greenville is a foodie’s paradise. Whether your crew is into BBQ, Southern classics, street tacos or pizza, you’ll have no problem satisfying their appetites with more than 120 locally owned restaurants, cafes and bakeries within 10 city blocks. Of course, if you’re looking for a white-tablecloth dining experience with live music, a decadent spot for Sunday brunch or a craft brewery, Greenville has those too, and they’re not hard to find.
photo: Kristina Moy
To help you narrow down the dining choices, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Greenville restaurants. Consider: Sidewall Pizza for hand tossed pizza, salads and homemade ice cream; Soby’s New South Cuisine for a blend of contemporary cuisine infused with traditional Southern ingredients; The Lazy Goat for Mediterranean cuisine with a “made from scratch” menu featuring influences from Spain, Morocco, Italy, France, Greece, Africa and the Middle East; Nose Dive Gastropub for urban comfort food (think: grits, sweet potato waffles and chicken, biscuits and gravy) and a selection of handcrafted beers; Passerelle Birstro for French-inspired cuisine; Cantina 76 for Mexican-inspired cuisine, street tacos and hand-crafted margaritas; Luna Rosa Gelato Cafe & Restaurant for Southern classics, craft cocktails and the best gelato in the U.S.; El Thrifty Social Club for authentic, Mexican-inspired dishes with a side of gaming (think: bocce ball, pool, corn hole); Port City Java for locally roasted coffee, baked goods and the best breakfast sandwiches in town; and Rick Erwin’s Deli for house-made sandwiches, salads and a $5 kid’s menu.
If you want to experience some of the best cuisine in Greenville, book a culinary tour with John Nolan. At the Chef’s Table is an exciting dining and cultural experience that will take you to five restaurants—each with the opportunity to meet the chefs and sample their dishes—as well as learn fascinating insights into Greenville’s rich history, culture and architecture.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re looking for spacious accommodations, a hotel with a large pool or a luxurious escape, you’ll find a variety of hotels, inns and B&Bs conveniently located throughout Greenville. For families who want to spread out a bit, we recommend the Hyatt Place Greenville Downtown. Newly opened just two blocks off Main Street, the hotel offers 130 spacious rooms with separate sleeping and living areas, an indoor pool, complimentary daily breakfast for Hyatt members and free shuttle service to and from Main Street.
Celebrity pastry chef Marina Sousa, owner of Just Cake, is forecasting five surprising fall dessert trends for this year. Marina is a celebrity baker, Food Network Challenge champion and winner of the celebrity cake-off on The Oprah Winfrey Show.
She recently partnered with Nielsen-Massey Vanillas on their Better Your Bake campaign to share step-by-step videos, tips, and recipes for basic baking techniques to help home cooks feel more confident in the kitchen.
Here’s what she predicts we’ll start to see in bakeries across the U.S. this fall:
Floral Flavors: Floral flavors like jasmine, honeysuckle and rose water will make an appearance this fall as customers seek brighter flavors to perk themselves up as the days grow shorter. I’m excited to infuse some warmer flavors into my fall baking!
Bite-sized Treats: Smaller desserts will likely trend through the fall and into the holidays as consumers look for ways to still enjoy a decadent dessert without packing on the pounds.
Global Desserts: This fall, expect to see desserts inspired by cuisine and flavors in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa to grow in popularity as customers look for ways to expand their palate with desserts.
Browned Butter: This simple ingredient adds a sweet, slightly nutty taste to desserts and is seeing a growth in popularity as home bakers learn more advanced baking skills. Browned butter is a simple ingredient but it can completely change the flavor of nearly any dessert. It’s one of my favorite tricks for elevating your home baking skills! (Pro tip: if you’ve never tried to brown butter before, check out this Better Your Bake video from Nielsen-Massey Vanillas to learn more!)
Out With Pumpkin, In With Maple: September brings the start of pumpkin-flavored-everything, and bakeries are no exception! While the past few years have been all about pumpkin, we’re going to start seeing more maple-infused desserts again this fall. Maple brings warmth and decadence to any dessert and is naturally associated with autumn.
Chef Marina recently partnered with one of the world’s premiere vanillas, Nielsen-Massey Vanilla, as part of Nielsen-Massey’s #BetterYourBake campaign to teach basic baking techniques and give home bakers more confidence in the kitchen. For more trend-forward recipes with fall flavors, as well as baking tips, tricks, and techniques, check out BetterYourBake.com.
Marina Sousa is the owner and pastry chef of Just Cake. She's earned recognition for her style and unmatched quality and frequently designs cakes for celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Miley Cyrus. She often appears on Food Network where she has won first place on Food Network Challenge and served as a judge.
Located just 90 miles north of Chicago, along our beloved Lake Michigan, Milwaukee makes for a fun and easy family weekend getaway. Nicknamed Brew City for its beer-focused history, Milwaukee is brimming with things to see and do for families. For everything from a brewery visit fit for kids to impressive museums, read on for tips on things to do in this Wisconsin city. Don’t miss our Milwaukee events calendar to get the full scoop on local happenings.
Discovery World
Spend the afternoon at Discovery World. This science and tech focused museum features everything from aquariums to total immersion virtual reality experiences. Since it’s located on the lakefront, the fun extends outdoors (weather permitting) — you can even set off on a tall ship from the museum’s dock now through October!
Harley-Davidson Museum
Did you know that American motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson was founded in Milwaukee in 1903? Cruise over to the Harley-Davidson Museum where you’ll learn more about this historic American icon. Kids can build their own virtual motorbike and even try on some hip Harley-Davidson gear.
Sprecher Brewery
No visit to Brew City would be complete without a tour of a classic brewery. Luckily, the Sprecher Brewery offers a kid-friendly tour. As the first microbrewery to be licensed in Milwaukee since Prohibition, this small, handmade brewery is dedicated to producing not only the best connoisseur style beers but also gourmet sodas, so even kids can get in on the taste-testing fun. Take a case of Sprecher Root Beer on the road with you as a tasty souvenir.
Betty Brinn Children’s Museum
Milwaukee’s only place for hands-on play and interactive learning, just for kids 10 and younger and their grown-ups! The Betty Brinn Children’s Museum is dedicated to providing interactive exhibits and educational resources that promote school readiness, including the development of early literacy, beginning math and science concepts, problem-solving, and physical and social skills. Visit today to explore our resident exhibits, special exhibits and our weekly educational programs.
929 E Wisconsin Ave.
Milwaukee, WI
Online: bbcmkids.org
Milwaukee County Zoo
As one of the country’s finest zoological attractions, the Milwaukee County Zoo will educate, entertain and inspire you! Visit over 3,100 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles in specialized habitats spanning 190 wooded acres. Explore educational wildlife shows, fun attractions and enticing special events.
Cafe Hollander
Start your day with a delicious brunch at Cafe Hollander. Ask for a table outdoors beside the picturesque fountain and you’ll feel as if you’re in Europe at this elegant yet kid-friendly grand cafe, where brunch is served daily from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Opt for the signature fluffy Lowlander pancakes or the Brew City Benedict, a Milwaukee take on classic eggs benedict featuring Wisconsin-fresh cheddar and housemade Hollandaise.
Cafe Hollander
2608 N. Downer Ave.
Milwaukee, WI
Online: cafehollander.com
North Point Lighthouse
This picture-perfect, restored 19th-century lighthouse also houses a small maritime museum. Climb to the very top via 84 narrow steps and a ladder and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful city and lake vistas. Kids who complete the climb will receive a special certificate.
AJ Bombers
End your day with burgers at AJ Bombers, voted best cheeseburgers in town by the Travel Channel’s Food Wars. Kids will love the pre-dinner peanuts that arrive to the table via a mini-bomber. The custom here is throw the shells right onto the floor. Bring a pen or a marker because writing on the table and walls is encouraged.
1247 N. Water St.
414-221-9999
Online: ajbombers.com
Milwaukee Art Museum
It’s hard to decide which is more awesome – the Quadracci Pavilion, designed by world renowned architect Santiago Calatrava – or the more than 30,000 pieces in the museum’s permanent collection. Spanning antiquity to modern, the collection includes works by Monet, Warhol and Picasso, in addition to one of the largest Georgia O’Keeffe collections in the world. Be sure to rent an ArtPack for your kids, a small case filled with sketching supplies that can be used in the galleries, giving kids the chance to interpret and recreate masterpieces through their own eyes . ArtPacks are free and available from the ArtPack Station in Windhover Hall during regular museum hours.
700 N. Art Museum Dr.
414-224-3200
Online: mam.org
Milwaukee Public Market
Pedal to the Milwaukee Public Market for a late lunch (easy bike parking just outside the entrances). This historic foodie hub has been serving up local delights for over 100 years. The focus is here is on Wisconsin products, so indulge in the area’s best housemade chocolates, artisan cheeses, pretzels, and creamy frozen custards or give one of the other purveyors a try – you’ll find the flavors of the world here, from the Middle East and Mexico. Let each member of your family choose their lunch and then head to the public seating on the second floor, where you’ll be treated to a great view of the bustling market.
The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Milwaukee
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Milwaukee events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities.
For an epic family adventure unlike any other, head to Dubai—the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Fusing together glamour and culture through jaw-dropping architecture, extravagant theme parks and resorts, man-made islands and an abundance of markets and culinary delights, Dubai offers an array of memorable experiences for everyone. And with direct service to Dubai on Emirates, it’s easier than ever to experience this city and emirate in the Middle East. Read on for all you can expect to see, do and experience in Dubai!
Traveling to Dubai
Emirates offers direct flights to Dubai from 12 US gateways (Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York—JFK & EWR, Washington D.C., Boston, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Dallas and Chicago) making your trip there that much easier. Known for its abundance of family offerings, Emirates offers everything from a rewards program for kids, to special family check-in desks, complimentary strollers, early bag drop off (up to 24 hours in advance) and lounges with dedicated play spaces at the Dubai International Airport.
photo: Emirates
Even the youngest of travelers are given special treatment on Emirates with a range of baby meals on board, Lonely Planet Kids packs filled with educational books, crafts, colored pencils and travel journals and Emirates Fly With Me Animals. Additional perks include a kid’s menu, snack boxes and an in-flight entertainment system with a huge collection of Disney faves, TV shows and popular cartoons as well as more than 100 in-flight games, kid-sized headphones and access to Polaroid cameras to capture in-flight adventures.
If families choose to fly business or first class, Emirates will provide complimentary chauffer-drive service to and from the airport (say goodbye Uber and hello Emirates chauffer), access to Emirates’ network of over 40 lounges worldwide, seats that convert to fully flat beds (a huge perk for those long flights!), access to more than 4,000 in-flight channels and exclusive use of Emirates’ iconic Onboard Lounge (think: in-flight cocktail bars) on its A380s.
Immerse Yourself in the City’s Culture & History in Old Dubai
Dubai is known around the world for its iconic landmarks, pristine beaches, skyscraper-lined streets and glamorous social scene. But there’s another side to the emirate that is overwhelmingly different from its glitzy counterpart, and just as fascinating. Old Dubai is home to traditional markets, authentic meals and cultural experiences, and it’s where you can get a true reflection of the city and learn about the traditions of Dubai. Here’s what you must see and do on a Traditional Dubai City Tour:
Jumeirah Mosque
With the melodic call to prayer echoing through Dubai five times a day, paying a visit to the Jumeirah Mosque to further your understanding of Muslim culture is paramount. Located along “Beach Road,” Jumeirah Mosque is one of only two mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslims. Stop in and enjoy an authentic light breakfast with Arabic coffee or tea, learn about the cleaning process that takes place before prayers and explore the inside of the mosque where you can learn about the culture of Emirates and deepen your understanding of the world’s second-largest religion.
Crossing the Dubai Creek
Taking a motorized water taxi (an abra) across the Dubai Creek is a popular mode of transportation for residents and tourists alike, and a must-do when visiting Old Dubai. Offering the cheapest and quickest way to travel between Deira and Bur Dabai, a one-way ride will only set you back one AED (approximately 27 cents USD.) If the lines look long, don’t worry. During peak travel times, up to 150 boats work the routes and depart every couple of minutes. Once on board, grab a seat and take in the views of the Creek from the different viewpoints. The trip only takes a few minutes, but the experience is unforgettable.
Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort
One of the best parts about international travel is introducing your kids to different cultures. And there is no better place to explore the rich heritage of Old Dubai than at the Dubai Museum. Built in 1787, and housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, the Museum is the oldest existing building in Dubai. Step inside the Museum’s courtyard and see displays of different types of boats used in Dubai’s pearl-fishing industry, along with cannons from the days when the British were involved in the region. From there, a path will lead you to the different galleries where you can catch a glimpse of everyday life before the discovery of oil through the recreation of historic local houses, mosques, souks, date farms and marine and desert life as well as view various artifacts and antiques.
Gold, Spice & Textile Souks
Dubai is known for its historical souk districts which are located on either side of the Dubai Creek. On the Deira side of the Creek is where you will find the Gold Souk. Here, shop windows are filled to the brim with gold: bracelets, necklaces, rings and huge body pieces, and it’s where you can view the world’s largest gold ring worth more than three million dollars! Down the street, the Spice Souk is a feast for the senses with bins of colorful spices displayed alongside massive bags of spices that you would normally see in the supermarkets in tiny jars. If you’re looking for silk, cotton, cashmere or embroidered fabrics, you’ll find them at the Textile Souk located at the old trading center of Bur Dubai, on the opposite side of Dubai Creek.
Go on a Desert Safari
When it comes to must-do adventures in Dubai, a Desert Safari should definitely at the top of your list. Book a Sundown Dune Dinner Safari with Arabian Adventures and get ready for the ride of your life. Perfect for adventure enthusiasts of all ages, this memorable desert excursion will take you cruising er rollercoastering in a four-wheel drive Land Cruiser over the sand dunes in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Explore the desert first-hand with a stop for photos at the top of a dune at sunset before continuing your adventure to a Bedouin-style camp where you can ride a camel, go mini sand-boarding (weather permitting) and get a henna hand painting. Then, relax on the large cushions and carpets and enjoy an Arabic style, three-course buffet while watching belly dancers and gazing at the stars in the desert night sky. It’s an adventure you and your kids will soon not forget!
Explore the Middle East’s Largest Leisure & Theme Parks
Located approximately 30 minutes from the Jumeirah district of Dubai is where you will find Dubai Parks and Resorts—the Middle East’s largest integrated leisure and theme park destination. Spread over 25 million square feet, this experience is like no other as it features more than 100 indoor and outdoor rides and attractions and consists of three theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and LEGOLAND Dubai, and one water park: LEGOLAND Water Park.
LEGOLAND Dubai & LEGOLAND Water Park
At LEGOLAND Dubai, let your kids’ imaginations soar in the six themed areas that cover everything from medieval dragons to underwater adventures. Gawk at ah-mazing landmarks and international attractions made completely out of LEGO bricks in MINILAND and experience over 40 LEGO-inspired rides, shows and attractions. Then, finish off your visit with a trip to the LEGOLAND Water Park where you can take on the Joker Soaker, build your very own LEGO raft, go on a splash safari or slip and slide your way down 20 different water slides and attractions.
Bollywood Parks Dubai
Styled like a Bollywood set, Bollywood Parks Dubai is the first theme park of its kind in the world. Here, you can experience a celebration of Mumbai’s legendary film industry in five different zones, each inspired by Bollywood blockbusters. Enjoy live entertainment, stunt shows, stage performances and colorful cinematic rides and attractions. The park has something for everyone—action, adventure, romance, comedy, music and dance!
Motiongate Dubai
Showcasing five creative themed areas and attractions based on DreamWorks Animation, Columbia Pictures, Lionsgate and the Smurfs, Motiongate Dubai is the cherry on the top of your theme park adventure. Acclaimed as the Middle East’s largest Hollywood-inspired theme park, Motiongate Dubai is where you can go behind-the-scenes and discover the illusion of filmmaking and enjoy host of action-packed rides and attractions, multimedia theater shows and interactive play zones.
Insider Tip: Six Flags Dubai will be the fourth theme park addition to Dubai Parks and Resorts and will open its doors in late 2019 with an additional 27 rides and attractions and record-breaking roller coasters.
Ride to the Top of World’s Tallest Building
No visit to Dubai would be complete without visiting the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa! With a view of the city like no other, the Burj Khalifa stands at over 2,716 feet which is more than 160 stories (if you’re counting, that’s 58 floors taller than the Empire State Building). Take a one-minute ride to the observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors and explore the jaw-dropping 360 degree views. Psst…level 125 serves as a tribute to Arab arts and culture while level 124 offers access to an exhilarating outdoor terrace. The architectural phenomenon of the Burj Khalifa can be seen from almost everywhere in Dubai and the experience from entering, to reaching the lookout deck is one for the books!
Insider Tip: The Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest musical dancing fountain, is set on Burj Khalifa Lake. Performances are held daily and last up to five minutes. Evening shows begin at 6 p.m. and take place every half hour until 11 p.m. There are also two daytime performances: 1 p.m. & 1:30 p.m. (1:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. on Fridays). Plan your visit during one of the shows and take your experience at the top of the world to the next level.
Hit the (Indoor) Ski Slopes
If it’s a particularly hot day in Dubai and you want to cool off sans water, head to Ski Dubai. This epic 22,500 square foot indoor ski resort is part of the Mall of the Emirates (one of the largest shopping malls in the world) and boasts a chair lift and an array of indoor snow activities: skiing, snowboarding, bobsledding, tubing, tobogganing, wall climbing and zorbing. Ski Dubai is also home to its very own colony of King and Gentoo penguins which are available for meet and greets. Psst…a basic ticket entry comes with all the snow clothing needed (snow suit, socks, snow boots), but not gloves. You can purchase a pair for a small fee at the gift shop or pack a pair in your suitcase.
Where to Stay
Located on Jumeira Beach, on the coast of the Persian Gulf and approximately 20 minutes from the Dubai International Airport, is where you will find Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts’ six beachfront properties: Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Al Naseem, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Jumeirah Mina A`Salam, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf and the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. In addition to being extremely family-friendly, each property boasts exceptional service, impeccable accommodations, an ah-mazing beach experience, gorgeous pools and access to 50 world-class restaurants—which can all be easily accessed by taking the complimentary water taxis that run along the canal in front of the resorts. Guestrooms each offer spacious accommodations that are decorated in traditional Arabian style, and many offer stunning views of the Persian Gulf and the resort’s lavish surroundings. The best part? Guests who stay at the Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts’ beachfront properties receive complimentary access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark, an awesome water park that offers 30 rides and attractions and is located right in front of the Burj Al Arab.
Insider Tip: If you’re not able to visit the souks in Old Dubai, plan to visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah which is part the Jumeirah resort. Here, you’ll find a traditional Middle Eastern shopping culture of stands, barrows and stalls mixed in with boutique brands, souvenir gift shops, fashion and jewelry. The Souk Madinat Jumeirah also boasts more than 25 different restaurants and offers cuisines from all over the globe.
Insider Travel Tips:
There are no hard and fast restrictive dress rules around Dubai, but the United Arab Emirates is a modest country. If you’re heading to the mall, a restaurant, market or really, any public place, show respect by not wearing very short shorts and skirts, crop tops or strappy tops. Cover up from shoulders to knees and all will be good. Men should also show similar respect.
Nearly all the drinking water in Dubai comes from desalination. The government states that it is safe to drink when it leaves the processing plants, but we found that most locals choose not to drink it because of its bad taste and the pipes that carry it. Bottled water is easily accessible and can be found in the hotels, restaurants and attractions.
Dubai has one of the world’s lowest crime rates, and in 2018 was ranked the eighth-safest city in the world. Since theft is not a big worry, many tourists feel much safer in Dubai than they do in other parts of the globe.
Arabic is the national and official language of the UAE. However, English is used as a second language and is the most widely spoken language in Dubai.
In the summer, the weather in Dubai is very hot, dry and humid with temperatures reaching between 113 and 120 degrees. Travel is ideal during Dubai’s cooler season which runs between October and April.
The official currency of Dubai is the United Arab Emirates dirham (abbreviated to AED). To easily convert US currency to dirham, use this calculator.
The UAE has a strict drug policy. However, we had no trouble bringing in over-the-counter pain relievers and prescriptions accompanied by a doctor’s note. For more info about the UAE’s laws, click here.
Dubai Expo 2020 will take place Oct. 20, 2020—April 10, 2021 and will feature 190 country pavilions, one-of-a-kind attractions, ground-breaking architecture, food and beverage outlets from all over the world, art installations and so much more.
—Kristina Moy (all photos courtesy of the author unless otherwise noted)
This trip was paid for by Emirates, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
