***Editor’s Note: The contest is now closed. Stay tuned for a winner!***Family vacations can be hard to plan – it’s difficult to find activities that the whole family will enjoy together and remember. That is where LEGOLAND shines! Both locations, in Carlsbad, CA and now in Orlando, FL, offer fun-filled activities, rides, shows, and attractions for the entire family. Bionicle Blasters, Land of Adventure, and the all new LEGOLAND Water Park are just a fraction of the fun that will help you create family memories to last a lifetime!

It’s no surprise that LEGOLAND California was voted California’s “Best Children’s Park” – everyone has a reason to get excited with more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions, such as the dinosaur thrill ride Coastersaurus, or the Fun Town Fire and Police Academy, where the whole family gets in on the fun!

And now, the newly opened LEGOLAND Florida brings family-friendly fun out to the East Coast, giving you the chance to hunt for treasure in the Land of Adventure, go to a swashbuckling water-ski pirate show, or visit Miniland USA, with replicas of cities from around the country. Take the family to LEGOLAND and you are guaranteed to have a good time!

To give you and your family the chance to experience these fantastic parks, Viator.com is giving away prize packages to TWO winners this month. Winners will receive package of 4 tickets each (for 2 adults and 2 children), to either LEGOLAND California or LEGOLAND Florida. The lucky winners will also each receive a $50 park purchase voucher to add to use on food and merchandise. The LEGOLAND California ticket package also includes entrance to the SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium and the LEGOLAND Water Park!

LEGOLAND Family Ticket Package Contest: How to Enter

To enter for your chance to win, simply post a reply to this blog entry answering the question, “Why should Viator give YOU a Family Ticket Package to LEGOLAND?” in 10 words or fewer. Remember to include which location you would like to visit in your entry – California or Florida (this will not be included in the 10-word maximum per entry). Entries must be submitted by October 31, 2011. Winners will be announced in early November.

You can enter this contest as many times as you like, but remember, your reply must be 10 words or fewer, or it will not be considered. You must also include the location of the park in your entry.

Good luck!

- The Viator Travel Team

Terms & Conditions: Our staff will pick the entry that we think best answers the question above, in 10 words or fewer. We are giving away 2 free ticket packages for LEGOLAND, one for LEGOLAND California and one for LEGOLAND Florida. Each ticket package includes 4 General Admission tickets and a $50 voucher for purchases made in the park. The LEGOLAND California ticket package also includes admission to the SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium and the LEGOLAND Water Park. Ticket packages can be used any available date before December 31, 2012. Airfare, taxes and any other expenses not specifically listed above are not included. Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be sold or redeemed for any cash value.

You can also book tickets for LEGOLAND in California and LEGOLAND in Florida directly from the Viator site.

[Contest] Win a Family Ticket Package for LEGOLAND in California and Florida! by Viator Travel Team from Viator Travel Blog

There is a lot going on in Clearwater, Florida. At the Clearwater Marine Aquarium you can meet Winter, the cousin of famous TV dolphin, Flipper, or if you are there at the right time of year, you can watch the world champion Philadelphia Phillies swinging away at their spring training facilities – but these are bonuses. The real allure of Clearwater Beach is the sun, the beach and the water.

The Clearwater Beach Day Trip from Orlando gives you the opportunity to explore the Gulf of Mexico in a way not many people get to. With a range of wonderful activities available in the package you can choose to take a cruise on the water or go deep-sea fishing.

Clearwater Beach Day Trips from Orlando: Video

As you can see from this short video, there are a number of reasons to visit Clearwater Beach on a day trip from Orlando – though if you’re a big sun and sea lover, you’ll be tempted to stay longer. A great way to treat the whole family, with the cruise option you get 1-hour on the open water aboard the yellow and pink adorned Sea Screamer where, if you keep your eyes peeled, you may get to see leaping dolphins.

The deep-sea fishing option on the other hand gives you the chance to get into the depths of the Gulf, where you may catch some of Florida’s most prized fish, including the gray snapper or sea bass. And do not be too shocked if you catch yourself a shark!

The full-day package also comes with pick-up and drop-off from your Orlando hotel, and even includes a delicious beachside picnic, where you can dine as the waves roar and crash in front of you. All taxes and fees are included and if you are looking to just catch some rays for most of the day, you can be taken to rent umbrellas and purchase other beach equipment. Whichever option you choose, Clearwater Beach is a relaxing place to spend time away from the grind!

- Philip Heijmans

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Orlando tours and activities, Orlando attractions and Orlando travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Orlando for a customized tour!

[Video] Leave Orlando Behind for Lovely Clearwater Beach, Florida by Philip Heijmans from Viator Travel Blog

Universal Studios Hollywood is the world’s only working movie studio and theme park, and offers an entertaining mix of thrill rides based on the biggest blockbusters, live-action shows, and a Studio Tour giving guests a one-of-a-kind, behind-the-scenes look at the world of movie-making magic. There’s no bad time to visit the Entertainment Capital of L.A. â„  but we’ve got five reasons to go now.

#1 Cars from Fast Five

Only on display until September 1 is a display of cars from the latest installment of The Fast and the Furious franchise – Fast Five. The cars include Brian’s (played by Paul Walker) 2009 Nissan 370Z and Mia’s (played by Jordana Brewster) 1966 Ford GT40.

#2 Jurassic Park – The Ride

Beat the summertime heat on this much-loved thrill ride, where you’ll be assailed with showers of water coming at you from all angles. As you raft down a river, you’ll encounter Raptors, a Stegosaurus, the ever-feared Tyrannosaurus Rex and other prehistoric creatures. A general admission ticket includes access to this ride, but if you simply can’t stand to wait in line for popular rides like this one, buy a skip-the-line ticket and avoid the crowds!

#3 Studio Tour

With comedian Jimmy Fallon as the new host of the Studio Tour (a part of Universal Studios in some form or another since 1915), this favorite attraction just got a lot funnier. As you relax on a tram, you’ll go behind the scenes and see very recognizable sets from TV shows and movies like Desperate Housewives, War of the Worlds and Back to the Future. The Studio Tour is included in the ticket price, but if you need more Hollywood-related fun in L.A. buy a combination Universal Studios ticket and movie stars’ homes tour.

#4 King Kong 360 3-D

Part of the studio tour, ‘King Kong 360 3-D’ opened just last year and is an intense 3-D experience that takes you to a recreated Skull Island, where two enormous curved screens (the equivalent of 16 regular-sized theater screens) provide you with heart-stopping entertainment. As a 35-foot T-Rex and 30-foot King Kong battle it out around your tram, air and water effects will enhance your caught-in-the-middle experience. This ride is sure to leave your legs shaking for hours; buy a Universal Studios ticket with round-trip transportation so you don’t have to drive back to your hotel.

#5 VIP Experience

While you’re touring Hollywood movie sets, why not be pampered like a Hollywood star? With the VIP Experience, you’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the studio back lot and receive skip-the-line entry to all attractions and shows. A gourmet lunch, a walk through a working sound stage and a visit to the Archive and Collections Department (home to props, photos and costumes) are also included.

- Viator Travel Team

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Los Angeles tours and activities, Los Angeles attractions and Los Angeles travel recommendations.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood Now! by Viator Travel Team from Viator Travel Blog

With this month’s release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, the eighth and final film in the beloved fantasy series, the world has Harry Potter fever for the very last time (tear…). What better way to show your spirit and soak up as much Potter as you can than on a Harry Potter-themed tour in England or Scotland? You’ll see filming sites, capture great photos and have plenty of time to brush up on your spell-casting vocabulary. Expecto patronum!

England

Whether you arrive in London by broomstick or a British Airways 747, the best way to get around the city is in a traditional black cab. Go one step further on the Harry Potter Black Taxi Private Tour of London. You and your fellow muggles will start off at Diagon Alley, which is actually Leadenhall Market, a grand Victorian arcade that has been a place of trade for about 700 years.

Leadenhall Market arcade in London, aka Diagon Alley

Visit the Leaky Cauldron and see Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station before making your last stop at the Order of the Phoenix headquarters. Alternatively, the Harry Potter Walking Tour is a less expensive but just as exciting tour that covers the same Potter-related sites.

Performing some witchery at Platform 9-3/4, King's Cross station

Outside bustling London, you can follow in more of Harry’s, Ron’s and Hermione’s footsteps. Oxford is a good place to start, and there are several day trips from London that include a visit to this historic university town. On campus, wannabe wizards and witches head straight to the university’s Christ Church Hall, the setting for the Hogwarts main hall.

Hogwarts hall - known to non-witches as the Dining Commons at Christ Church College, Oxford

Or visit Lacock, an incredibly preserved, picture-perfect English village that inspired Godric’s Hollow and was a filming location in both Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. From London, a day trip to Stonehenge includes a visit to this unspoiled town. Make sure to visit the town’s abbey, which you’ll surely recognize from many Potter scenes.

The "home" of Harry Potter in the quaint English village of Lacock

Scotland

Head north of London to Edinburgh for a breathtaking ride on the Hogwarts Express! Both the 2-Day Jacobite Experience Tour and the 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Tour include a thrilling trip on the Jacobite Express, the real-life steam train that follows Scotland’s scenic West Highland Railway Line.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a section of the railway that was featured in the Harry Potter films – capturing Harry and his friends as they made their way from London to Hogwarts each year. The rolling green landscape is simply beautiful and it’s a must for any true Potter fan.

- Leah Still

Planning a trip to the land of Harry Potter? Browse Viator’s England tours and activities, England attractions and if you’re a fan, don’t miss our Harry Potter Tours.

Live the Magic of Harry Potter in England and Scotland! by Leah Still from Viator Travel Blog

If you think of the ultimate vacation in Oahu – or Hawaii in general – as sunbathing on white sand beaches, braving the epic surf or feasting on local delicacies, a visit to the popular Polynesian Cultural Center will shed a whole new light on the authentic Hawaiian experience. And do I mean experience!

With dining and show package tickets from Viator to fit any taste and budget, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers the rare chance to actually participate in the daily adventures of Hawaiian and other South Pacific cultures. Join in Hawaii’s most authentic luau and witness an amazing Polynesian show and you’ll see why every trip to Hawaii should include a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu!

Eight villages showcase the indigenous Polynesian cultures of Hawaii, Samoa, the Marquesas, Fiji, New Zealand, Tonga and Tahiti. Real Polynesians share knowledge of their traditional customs, and you can either watch the demonstrations or jump in and participate! Take a canoe ride on the lagoon and enjoy an IMAX film. Kids – and adults – will love getting temporary tattoos, spear throwing, ukulele lessons and fishing.

Get a glimpse in to the ancient beliefs and cultural traditions of the native Hawaiian people in “Ha: Breath of Life”, an ancient yet universal tale, with performers dressed in authentic attire telling their story as their ancestors did. And if that’s not enough, you’ll be amazed by traditional fire dancing (poi) and fire walkers!

Polynesian Cultural Center: Video

The video features just some of the fascinating demonstrations you can watch or take part in at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu, including native drumming, traditional dances and even the proper way to crack a coconut!  An ever popular site, make sure you book your discounted tickets from Viator ahead of time!

- Viator Travel Team

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Oahu tours and activities, Oahu attractions and especially Oahu cultural and theme tours, for a truly authentic Hawaiian experience.

[VIDEO] Authentic Hawaii: Oahu’s Interactive Polynesian Cultural Center by Viator Travel Team from Viator Travel Blog

Orlando, America’s playground, sparkles with endless fun and showcases some of the best theme parks in the world. The mega multi-sensory rides, the thrilling adventures, the awesome sights and sounds. It’s a world-class theme park showcase, from Walt Disney World and Gatorland to Universal Studios Orlando and SeaWorld. Plus, you can eat your way through a mouth-watering array of international cuisine at Epcot Center, browse Downtown Disney’s shops, or immerse yourself in space travel at the Kennedy Space Center. Are you ready? Then check out our Top 10 list of the best things to see and do in Orlando.

10. Spend a day at Universal Studios Orlando

I can’t say enough about Universal Studios Orlando. Indeed, the rating it gets as the number one movie- and TV-based theme park in the world is justified. Spend a day and immerse yourself in an intoxicating, exciting blend of breathtaking rides, attractions, and cutting edge special effects and technology. Thrill seekers can test their mettle on the high speed Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster, overload their senses on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, or zip through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the park’s newest ride. See movie sets come to life on a behind-the-scenes movie tour or take in the fun 4-D Shrek show. It’s an essential experience.

Going to the moon - must-see exhibit at Kennedy Space Center

9. Day Tripping to Kennedy Space Center

An hour east of Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center provides a fascinating respite from the Orlando wonderland. After all, American journeys into space only happen here. But you don’t have to be an astronaut to enjoy the myriad hands-on exhibits, IMAX movies, and the collection of full size Titan rockets, engine replicas, and 363-foot Apollo Saturn 1B rocket. Space fans can even get strapped into a cockpit and given a ride on the Shuttle Launch Simulator. And if that isn’t enough for budding astronauts, the NASA astronauts will give hands-on training and prepare you for space flight in the new Astronaut Training Experience. Time for take off!

8. Swimming with Gentle Giants

When not splashing on the water slides in the Orlando theme parks, get back to nature with a swim with a manatee or dolphin on the Crystal River. You’ll zip along the river on an airboat, then don a mask and snorkel for a swim with these gentle giants under the guidance of a certified diver. After this, you’ll be treated to a picnic, then it’s back on the airboat for a 45-minute ride on the Homosassa River, where you may spot more manatees and dolphins frolicking about.

Swimming with gentle Manatees at Crystal River outside Orlando

7. Get Hands-On at SeaWorld

Enclosed in an expansive 200-acre park, SeaWorld provides thrilling water coaster rides, flamingo and pelican ponds, and a lush tropical rainforest. You can catch a rock n’ roll performance by SeaWorld resident star, Shamu the Killer Whale, or watch acrobatic dolphins, soaring birds, and stunt actors create breathtaking spectacle. But the real treat is the interactive programs, where you can feed stingrays, sea lions and dolphins. The more intrepid can try the Sharks Deep Dive, in which you can take a 30-minute encounter inside a cage for a close-up look at a pool of sharks.

6. Splishing and Splashing at Wet ‘n Wild

For those who love water-packed attractions, Wet n’ Wild provides endless splashy fun! Thrill rides are the big draws here: check out Brain Wash, a high-tech tube ride with a 53-foot drop into a 65-foot domed funnel; Der Stuka, a 6-story, nearly vertical speed slide; or The Storm, which sends you spinning through a chute into a giant bowl of water. Dizzy yet? If so, you can splash in the small pool or float in the Lazy River. A smaller version of the most popular rides is perfect for kids.

Wet wet wet! at Wet 'n Wild water park, Orlando

5. Day-Tripping to Clearwater Beach

For a brief respite from the thrills, chills, flash, and glitz of Orlando, head to the silky white sands of Clearwater Beach on a day trip from Orlando. Spend a day kayaking, shelling, swimming and sunning by the gentle, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Off the beach, stop for a bite then browse the shops on Mandalay Avenue. Later, watch sea otters at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, take a pirate cruise on the bay, ride the Jolley Trolley, or watch jugglers and magicians perform at Pier 60.

4. Explore Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Imagination and adventure come together at Animal Kingdom, the largest of all Disney theme parks in the world. It is park, zoo and carnival rolled into one fascinating experience. It’s a place to wander through re-created exotic natural lands like Africa, Thailand, and India, while spotting zebras, Bengal tigers, Komodo dragons, lions and birds along every path and trail. It’s a place where you can watch Disney’s big-as-Broadway music shows, like Finding Nemo the Musical or Lion King, explode in vibrant colors and effects. And when not enjoying the spectacle, keep your eyes peeled for the playful presence of Mickey, Goofy and other Disney characters.

Beautiful and impressive Bengal Tiger, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Orlando

3. Gator Fun in Gatorland

Get past the gaping alligator jaws of the main entrance and you’re in for a most awesome family adventure at Gatorland. Inside this 70-acre scaly sanctuary are thousands of alligators and crocodiles, as well as a healthy population of snakes, toads, insects and turtles. You can explore the park on a wooden boardwalk, which winds through a marsh filled with gators and birds, or tour the park on the Gatorland Express Train, which will enthrall younger kids. Come at night for the Gatorland Nights Shining Tour, where a flashlight gives you an intimate peak at these fascinating creatures.

2. Go Globe-Trotting through Epcot

For a low key yet international experience, the Epcot Center provides an enriching journey around the world. Take a trip through the sights and sounds of 11 different countries – including Norway, Morocco, Canada, Japan, China and Germany – in the World Showcase, which includes shops, restaurants, native architecture and cultural performances and attractions. For a peek at tomorrow’s technology, Future World provides a fascinating glimpse of worlds past, present and future. You can’t miss it, as it looks like a giant golf ball. Epcot can be overwhelming, so you may need more than a day to explore all the wonders here.

Everest Expedition feature at Epcot World Showcase, Orlando

1. Escape to the Magic Kingdom

A visit to Orlando is not complete without a stop at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. It’s iconic, after all, and magical! Think Cinderella’s Castle, Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Never Neverland, and Mickey’s Toontown Fair. Here you can zip through outer space, travel the shadowy world of pirates, or sail around the world by boat. It’s all here – the Walt Disney World you imagined times 10!

- William Travis

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Orlando tours and activities, Orlando day trips and especially Orlando theme parks to help make trip planning easier!

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Orlando by William Travis from Viator Travel Blog

Traveling with kids, is it a nightmare to be avoided at all costs or an opportunity for unparalleled learning and family bonding? Like anything in this life, there are pros and cons to travel and traveling with your kids is no exception. While seeing the world with your little darlings can present many new challenges it balances those challenges with a whole lot of opportunities too.

Theme Parks are always a popular, family-friendly activity!

When you travel as a family you get to spend time away from the distractions and stresses of every day life and enjoy a shared learning experience. Travel can teach us so much about ourselves and other cultures, and children accelerate and expand this learning experience by opening doors to local people and communities that would otherwise remain closed.

The main ingredient to traveling well with your kids is the right mental attitude. If a delayed flight or unexpected itinerary change is enough to raise your blood pressure then the chances are your kids will get stressed as well. The more relaxed you are about unforeseen circumstances that will almost certainly occur then the better your kids will cope with change.

Dolphins: Fun for both Kids and Grown-ups!

Things to think about:

• When booking your flight, only choose bulkhead seats if your baby will need a bassinet. You can’t move the armrests in the bulkhead therefore older children will not be able to lie down.
  Plan your flight schedule, car or bus journey to fit in with your child’s sleep pattern if possible.
• If you are one of two parents traveling, use this to your advantage. Board the plane separately (one with luggage first, one with the children at the last possible moment!); also, plan separate visits to those places you are dying to see but know your children will detest.
• Plan to stay in accommodation where you can take advantage of babysitters for at least a small portion of your trip. You may also want to consider staying in a hotel with a kid’s club too.

Things to bring:

On the flight -

• Take plenty of water, milk and snacks on the plane. Keeping the children well fed will prevent any low blood sugar meltdowns. This applies to when you’re out and about too.
• Take special ear plugs for your children on the flight or, for babies, get them to feed from the breast or bottle on take off and landing to prevent ear pain.
• Take reading books, coloring books and a portable DVD player if you can! It can also help to take a new toy and present it half way through the flight (avoid small parts that can easily get lost)
• Take baby wipes and a change of clothes
• Some parents use baby paracetamol or other medications to help their children sleep – you may want to look into this. It can be equally as helpful to ensure children’s sugar intake remains to a minimum
• Take a comfort toy from home or even just a familiar pillow case to sleep on

On the road -

• Take a light buggy in your check-in luggage so the kids can sleep when you’re on the move. Even if your child does not normally nap outside of their cot at home you may be surprised – jet lag and a change of scenery can wonders! A baby carrier also comes in very handy, especially if you intend to include any hiking or walking in unpaved areas.
• A potty can come in handy if you are traveling by car.

Obviously your needs will differ depending on the destination you travel too and the age of your children. Overall travel with kids is rewarding and achievable. Go for it!

- Emma McMahon

Planning a Trip? For more family travel advice check out Europe’s Most Popular Kid’s Attractions, London for Kids, and other USA Family Friendly Activities.

Tips For Traveling With Children by Emma McMahon from Viator Travel Blog

If most Americans are like me, and I suspect many are, when it comes to Thanksgiving, they trudge home through horrible traffic and/or airport delays to eat a very large meal on Thursday, visit their family, maybe see a movie, and possibly battle some horrendous shopping crowds in an effort to get a jump on Christmas shopping.

Gobble. Gobble.

I say no more. Fellow Americans, you don’t need another Thanksgiving of watching the James Bond marathon on Spike TV, or waiting in line at the Gap. Just say no.

Instead, by all means, visit the family, have that extra slice of pumpkin pie, but don’t squander away your precious vacation days in store lines (you can buy it online, you know you can) or in front of the television. Break free of the Thanksgiving monotony and go do something fun. Actually have a vacation on your vacation days. This is radical thinking I know, but stick with me here, I have ideas. And I am practicing what I preach, I convinced my whole family to try my suggestion for Thanksgiving this year.

Here’s what I propose: If you live within reasonable drive or train ride to a major city (say around 2 hours or less), have an urban adventure. But, DO NOT SHOP. Instead, visit a museum, indulge in a helicopter ride, treat the kids, or take a day cruise. On Viator.com alone there are over 1,250 things to do in the USA just around the major cities, so no excuses, I am sure you can find something fun to do near you.

If you don’t live close enough to have a big city adventure, visit a National Park near you (or State park, I am not picky). They are blissfully crowd free around winter holidays, and everyone could stand to stroll or hike off a little gravy. Plus, when is the last time you went to your nearby national park? I bet it has been awhile. Stop by and say hi. Take the kids.

Fellow Americans, I urge you, nay, implore you, to GO OUT AND HAVE FUN! If you are home watching the Hallmark Channel’s Festival of Original Movies, or circling for parking at the mall, instead of out having a good time, you are so not going have the best Thanksgiving pictures or stories in the office on Monday. Make a Thanksgiving you’ll be thankful for, the only turkey should be the one you eat.

Happy Thanksgiving!

- Kelly G

How to Avoid a Turkey Thanksgiving by KellyG from Viator Travel Blog

***Editor’s Note: The contest is now closed and we have a winner! Congratulations Alyson!***Make every little kid’s dream come true and take your family to the most magical place on earth, Walt Disney World! Now you can experience 4 Days of Disney magic in Orlando, Florida for FREE! Viator is giving away four (2 Adults and 2 Children, ages 3-9), 4-Day Magic Your Way Tickets with both Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and more upgrades. This is the complete Walt Disney World ticket package!

Win 4 Tickets to Walt Disney World!

Experience the wonder and excitement of the most magical place on earth with this ultimate 4 Day Ticket package. With both the Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More upgrades, these tickets really do have it all!

Enjoy admission to all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks for any 4 days within a 14 day period.

Make your kids' dreams come true!

• Magic Kingdom Park
• Epcot
• Disney-Hollywood Studios â„¢
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Instead of having to stay in one park each day, the Park Hopper option allows you to come and go as you please through all four parks.

Experience the magic of Disney World beyond theme parks with the Water Park Fun and More option. This upgrade includes admission to:

• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
• Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
• DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park
• Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex
• Round of Golf at Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course

How to enter

For the chance to win this incredible prize, simply post a reply to this blog entry answering the question, “Why should Viator give YOU 4 tickets to Walt Disney World?” in 10 words or less.

Entries must be submitted by November 30, 2010.

Winners will be announced on December 7, 2010. You can enter our contest as many times as you like, but remember, your reply must be 10 words or fewer or it will not be considered. And just to be clear, we’re giving away four Disney 4-Day Magic Your Way Tickets (2 Adults and 2 Children, ages 3 -9) to be used anytime before 31 December, 2011, subject to availability. See the Viator product site for specific pickup/departure point locations, dates and times.

- Viator Travel Team

Viator Travel Team Terms & Conditions: Our staff will pick the entry that we think best answer the question above, in 10 words or less. We are giving away four Disney 4-Day Magic Your Way Tickets (2 Adults and 2 Children, ages 3 -9) to be used anytime before 31 December, 2011, subject to availability. Any other expenses not specifically listed above are not included. Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be sold or redeemed for any cash value.

[Contest] Win Free Tickets to Walt Disney World in Orlando! by Viator Travel Team from Viator Travel Blog

Who needs to hang out with the living, when you can go and visit the dead? With Halloween just around the corner, there is a fabulous and fascinating itinerary of ghosts and gravestones, haunted histories and underground vaults to be explored – from Memphis to the Orbs of Oahu, via Vegas, Rome, Venice, Stockholm and Boston.

Boo - ghost & vampire tours from around the globe.

Visit vampires in New Orleans, explore haunted castles in Edinburgh, wonder at the mysteries of Winchester House in San Francisco, and comb the catacombs in Rome. Wherever you choose to go in the daylight hours, remember the supernatural is always right there beside you, waiting for the darkness to shine!

Vampires in San Francisco and New Orleans

Ok, I’ll admit it, I’ve always had a thing for Vampires. The fragile pallor, black hair, blood-red lips, thick eyeliner, sexy sumptuous velvet and lace clothes, the exquisite kiss of death to the neck…. Stop me now! before I go straight down to New Orleans in search of my own eternal torment. The mythology of vampires is a well-established part of this deeply atmospheric city, from the fictional to the real, you will be taken into the night with a theatrical adventure through the French Quarter to a Vampire Tavern!

If the San Francisco Undead are more your scene, take a wander along the Gothic side of Nob Hill to hear all about the history and vampire lore at the Grace Cathedral, Huntington Park, Fairmont Hotel and more. San Francisco has plenty of spooky ghost stories. You can also experience the extra-sensory realm of San Francisco Chinatown after dark, with lamplit tales of the spectres from decades of history haunting these historic and mysterious streets and alleyways. Drink in the chilling folklore of this mystical enclave, and find out about the hungry spirits, and why the Goddess Kwan Yin receives such reverence, along with the secrets of magic moon cake.

Cemeteries and Tombs

Become an apprentice grave digger on this one of a kind fright-seeing experience. Join your host, a 17th-century grave digger suffering eternal damnation, who is cursed to travel the streets of Boston to relay the stories of unfortunate souls encountered and macabre events witnessed during his purgatory. Boston’s most sinister characters will also make an appearance, from the Angel of Death to the Boston Strangler.

Exclusive and not for the faint of heart! Travel on the Trolley of the Doomed to see inside three of the most haunted places in all of St Augustine. You may have an up close and personal encounter with the lost souls and malignant spirits of The Old Drug Store. Learn the secret of embalming before visiting the death beds of the Spanish Military Hospital and The Old Jail, site of countless supernatural occurrences.

Make a wish or cast a spell at the tomb of Marie Laveau – The Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, in St Louis No.1, the most haunted cemetery of the city. Discover how she was able to be in two places at once, and learn the unique above-ground burial customs, the meaning of ‘Gris-Gris’ and the mysterious ingredients in your souvenir bag. You will find out about the evolution of Voodoo, still practised today, and how it became such a factor in the Crescent City.

Haunted Castles

Travel across the Golden Gate Bridge and along beautiful Highway 280 to reach the mysterious Winchester House. Discover the reasons for the many unexplained oddities that have come to pass in this fascinating higgeldy-piggeldy 160-room Victorian house, the design features an endlessly confusing floor plan, with doors and staircases leading nowhere. Built by the Winchester rifle heiress Sarah Winchester who kept carpenters working on the building 24 hours a day for 38 years, until the day she died.

The real-life inspiration for the most notable haunted castle in literature, made famous by Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’. Travel to the intriguing Elsinore Castle on a day trip from Copenhagen, along the Danish Riviera and Helsingor, to see the rooms where Hamlet talked to a ghost.

Get your ghost on in Edinburgh

Tales of witchcraft, plague and torture abound on the Murder and Mystery walking tour of Edinburgh. Not for the faint hearted, you will visit scenes of murders and supernatural happenings, with your guide under the cloak of darkness, famous Edinburgh character Adam Lyal (deceased), highwayman who leads you through haunted alleyways and dark courtyards of the Old Town. Look out for the “jumper-ooters” and other ghastly appearances and strange incidents, while you hear of the notorious 19th century trade of bodysnatching. You can also descend beneath Edinburgh’s South Bridge for a spine-chilling night tour of the Edinburgh’s underground vaults. Focused on the findings of the Edinburgh Ghost Project, part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival, which confirmed the anecdotal accounts of paranormal sightings and experiences in different forms, touch, sight, sound and smell. The spirits of former vault residents may interact with visitors, and guests regularly report experiences from the eerie to the terrifying, the strange to the inexplicable. Some simply prefer to forget…

When night falls, the empty streets of Stockholm‘s Old Town belong to the spirits, vampires and you. Follow the lantern of your ghost-guide to hear true accounts of poltergeists, unsolved mysteries, myths and legends in the maze of forgotten courtyards and deserted alleys. Taste the past of medieval Stockholm, with a refreshment break in a haunted location!

Dark side of the Vegas Strip

The Darkest Ghostly Secrets of Sin City will be revealed to you in this spirited and spooky tour of Haunted Las Vegas. Investigating some of the 21 locations of paranormal activity, you may find yourself at the ‘Motel of Death,’ site of numerous celebrity deaths, and the eerie sites and haunting grounds of Bugsy Siegel, Liberace and Elvis.

Take a day trip from Vegas to Death Valley, with a breakfast in the Mojave Desert before a visit to Spanish Style Scotty’s Castle, the Furnace Creek Ranch Museum and finally, Rhyolite Ghost Town. Sure to have you shaking in your desert boots!

Ghost Tours

Join the Ghost Hunt in search of the dark and hidden past on the streets of Old Montreal and the wharves of the Old Port. Witness fires, political demonstrations, heroic acts and mysterious legends. You may find some of the city’s most notorious criminals, Mary Gallagher still looking for her head, or the heroes and villains of the New France in this adventure-laden ghost hunt.

In Florida, you can follow the lantern along the ghostly streets of Key West to the Old Town’s most infamous haunted locations, with tales of pirates, smugglers and benevolent protectors, learning the colourful history behind the sunshine. Or maybe it’s time to board the Savannah ‘Trolley of the Doomed!’ in Georgia. In this FRIGHTSEEING experience you will share tales of murder, mayhem, ghosts and ghouls in the secret haunts of gravediggers. Enter if you dare, the real antebellum mansion Sorrel Weed House to see a cauldron of supernatural activity!

The Haunted Philadelphia Story takes you on a ghoulish walking adventure to learn about the Master of the Macabre, Edgar Allan Poe, paranormal Pine Street happenings and folklore of the legendary ghosts that inhabit Independence Hall. Hear about the dancing statue of Benjamin Franklin, and visit Haunted Movie set locations from The Sixth Sense, National Treasure and other thrillers.

Kids, prepare for a fright.

Hear the darker site of Memphis, with chilling tales of the city’s haunted heritage, named for the famed Egyptian City of the Dead, taking you through the mysterious supernatural experiences of Orpheum Theater, Cotton Row and Handy Park.

Aloha, ghosts

Visit the favourite Haunts of Honolulu City Ghosts, for a spooky evening of true tales of the historical and eye-witness accounts, from the residence of Hawaii’s monarchy to the hotspots of ongoing supernatural activity. Or learn camera tips for photographing ghosts, and find the Orbs of Oahu on the southern part of the island, making ‘dead stops’ at some of the most haunted locations, including Morgan’s Corner, the Chinese Manoa Cemetery and the Pali Area.

Ghosts of Italy

Descending into the labyrinth of Ghostly Venice, from the Rialto Bridge across sleeping canals and abandoned squares, to discover the gruesome murder tales of the Assassins, and a secret passageway used to make quick escapes. Architectural follies are highlighted by intriguing ghost stories sure to make you quiver in the night.

The Dark Heart of Rome comes alive at night, on a nocturnal stroll through the hidden ghostly sites of this mysterious city. The historical and supernatural comes to life while visiting the Campo de Fiori, via del Governo Vecchio, Piazza Farnese and Castel Sant’Angelo, where fact and legend are intertwined.

Descend into the subterranean burial chambers of the Eternal City to discover the dark secrets of Rome’s catacombs. The Catacombs of the early Christians, crypts filled and decorated with thousands of bones, and the Church of San Clemente, built over a pagan temple, are some of the wonders you will see on this private viewing of the Capuchin Crypt and Catacombs. Travel to a time when Christianity was considered a cult.

Wherever you go on your next trip, something gory, ghoulish and ghostly is waiting for you!

-Jodi Rose

Halloween Tours: Ghosts, Ghouls, & Haunted Histories by JodiR from Viator Travel Blog

The Puerto Vallarta region of Mexico can be a paradise for families, with all-inclusive hotels in every price range and easy flight access from the U.S. and Canada. Spending a week within the gated compound of one hotel can make you (and the kids) kind of stir-crazy after a while though, so here are some family-friendly diversions to consider on your Puerto Vallarta adventure.

Boogie Boarding with the Kids

The region stretching from Mismaloya south of the city past Nuevo Vallarta to Punta Mita is packed with hotels and traffic, so plan according when it comes to where you will catch transportation to your excursion.

Water Excursions

There are only a few spots in the region where you can snorkel right off the shore and really see anything. A better bet is to take a large catamaran boat trip to the Marietas Islands at the north end of the bay or the Las Caletas cove at the south end.

Cruise to Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands trip cruises up the coastline past the tip of the Punta Mita peninsula to rocky islands that are a protected park. There’s a shady bottom section or a sunny top section for the ride. Cruising past blue-footed boobies and other birds, the boat docks in a cove where you can snorkel around for an hour and paddle around in a kayak. Then you split into smaller groups to ride a small boat to a postcard-perfect beach for a swim. The trip back features a buffet lunch, an open bar for mom and dad, and entertainment from the crew. Ages seven and up.

The Las Caletas trip reaches an area only accessible by boat, a place where the jungle meets the sea. The ship cruises south past Puerto Vallarta, reaching a secluded beach where you can go on nature hikes, snorkel (with a chance of seeing sea lions), visit the parrot center or go kayaking. A light breakfast, buffet lunch, and open bar are included. Ages five and up.

For something shorter, a snorkeling trip to the Los Arcos rock formations just south of town is a five-hour trip.

You can swim with dolphins in an enclosure in the Nuevo Vallarta area, but you’ll need an ample budget: it’s nearly a hundred dollars for adults and you can’t take photos with your own camera. Ages five and up.

Enjoying the beautiful beaches

Land Excursions

The most popular side trip from your hotel is free after you get there: a walk along the malecon next to the bay in the center of Puerto Vallarta. Here whimsical metal sculptures offer great photo ops and there are usually young men building elaborate sand castles. Town squares, the main church, a playground, and trinket shopping are all within a few blocks.

Sand Sculptor along the Malecon

If you want something more exciting, Puerto Vallarta is at the base of the Sierra Madre Mountains and you don’t have to go far to hit steep mountains and thick jungle. Just south of the center is a ziplining canopy adventure center, for ages eight and up. Or you can go much higher up in the mountains by 4X4 and then mule ride on an Outdoor Adventure Tour. On this tour you can rappel down waterfalls, cross jungle bridges and speed down “the highest and longest ziplines in Mexico.” Twelve years and up.

To head inland and see Old Mexico, the best bet is a Sierra Madre jeep adventure tour. This all-day trip hits traditional villages, a spot for a nature walk, and a secluded beach where there’s a barbeque lunch. Ages eight and up.

If you get tired of being shuttled around, rent a car and head north to Sayulita and other towns along the Pacific coast where the hotels are smaller and the pace is slower. When I rented a car recently, I booked it through the Viator.com site after reserving an excursion and it was cheaper than I found through the regular big booking sites like Kayak and Expedia. Be sure to accept the liability insurance though—it’ll save you days of hassle if there’s an accident no matter who is at fault.

- Tim Leffel

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Puerto Vallarta tours & things to do, from day trips and excursions to more family friendly adventures.

Puerto Vallarta Excursions with Kids by Tim Leffel from Viator Travel Blog

I’ve been to Mexico a dozen times. Maybe more. But in April I took my first ‘family’ trip to Mexico – my wife and I and our two sons, Emmett (4) and Hollis (not quite 1 at the time). We spent one week in and around Tulum, which is about 90 minutes (125km / 78 miles) from Cancun and an hour from Playa del Carmen (the ferry port for nearby Cozumel).

Our original goal? To spend a week on the beach doing not too much: lounging around, eating tacos, swimming, building sand castles, taking walks on the beach, and just enjoying the sunny warm weather. (Dad also had a personal goal to go cave diving – more on that later.)

Noel and Thurston at Xel Ha

If you have two young children, you already know we failed miserably in the ‘lounging around’ category. On all other fronts we did exceptionally well. Here’s how – I’m calling this my “Tulum Family Vacation Survival Guide”. It’s got all the things you need to do and to see in Tulum and the surrounding Riviera Maya and Yucatan peninsula. And a few things you should NOT do.

Tulum Planning

We made two very wise upfront decisions. First, we decided (for the first time, ever) to go all-inclusive. Yes, the little backpacker in me died a little that day, but that’s OK. Now that I am traveling with two kids in tow, I figured it was time to explore the dark side. And it was great! Never worrying about what to eat, when to eat and where to eat was a great relief. Chicken burrito at 11pm for Emmett? No problem. Poolside cerveza for dad, anytime of day? No problem.

Next, we invited friends to join us. Kelly and Noel brought their two sons along, so all of us had somebody to play with.

Tulum: Things to See & Do

Apparently there are great ruins not too far from Tulum. Coba and – of course – Chichen Itza come to mind. But I couldn’t tell you a thing about ‘em. Never made it. C’mon people – we’ve got 2 kids!

Emmett and Hollis at Xel Ha

Instead we focused on nearby attractions. First up – Xel Ha. At first I was dubious – it’s billed as an all-in-one snorkel destination aimed at families and kids. After just a few minutes at Xel Ha, my doubts disappeared. They’ve done a good job retaining a very natural setting. It’s really beautiful to look at. And the facilities are great. We spent a few hours snorkeling and exploring. If we had more time we might have tried a dolphin swim, swimming with manatees, river tubing – there is a lot to keep you entertained. I highly recommend Xel Ha, even if you do not have kids.

Next up? Tacos. We got a tip from a friend (thanks, Andrew!) about a place just outside of Tulum town called Urge Taquito (look for it on left-hand side when headed north, just after the grocery store). I won’t lie to you – the tacos are in my Top 10 list of all-time great tacos.

Tacos from Urge Taquito, in Tulum

Tulum Cave Diving

I also did some cave diving. This was a special treat to myself (I was celebrating a birthday), and something I had always wanted to do. Tulum and the surrounding Quintana Roo region are famous for cenotes, a massive network of underground caves filled with fresh water. If you’re a diver and have ever had even the slightest desire to cave dive – do it! The visibility is amazing. And the overall experience is incredible (especially if, like me, you’re a little burned out on diving in general).

Cave diving at Dos Ojos cenote, Tulum (entrace to dive)

I went with a company based in Playa del Carmen called Yucatek Divers and I definitely recommend them. We did two cave dives at a place called Dos Ojos (Two Eyes). It was a highlight of the trip. (My only advice – don’t bother with a disposable underwater camera; either bring a real underwater camera with a serious flash, or bring nothing at all.)

Tulum with Kids

Beach + Sun + Water = Happy Family

No surprise, most of our time was spent by the pool. At the pool. Around the pool. And – yes – in the pool. Luckily our hotel had a great pool (with a swim-up bar, woo hoo!).

We also spent lots of time in the ocean. And on the beach. Walking between the pool and the ocean. Between the pool and the beach. Between the beach and the ocean. You get the idea.

We also just hung out together. Which is possibly the most precious of all travel gifts – spending time with the people you love.

The only bump in the road (well, the only one I’ll share) was clearing customs in the U.S. on the way back home. Emmett had eaten way too many dehydrated strawberries and bananas on the plane from Mexico. By the time we arrived at customs, he was feeling queasy. And then he barfed right as we got to the customs booth. (Sorry, Mr. Customs Agent, it was nothing personal.)

-Scott McNeely

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Cancun things to do to and Riviera Maya & Yucatan tours.

Things to Do in Tulum & Quintana Roo by Scott Mc from Viator Travel Blog

Editor’s Note: Jenny is the person at Viator who finds all of the cool, fun and unique things to do in Orlando (and Florida). She’s just back again from Orlando and wanted to share a few experiences from her trip.

Top Things to Do in Orlando: Alligator Wrestling at Gatorland

I have been down in Orlando discovering all the things for travelers to do while on vacation there. Here is my list of the top things to do in Orlando.

No trip to Orlando would be complete without visiting Disney World. The multi-day tickets, like Disney’s 7-Day Magic Your Way ticket, make it easy to get from one Disney park to the next and saves you money on admission and time wasted in line. Now that summer is finally here try one of these new fun ways to cool off. Book a Jetski ride or sign up for water skiing or a parasailing adventure that leaves from Walt Disney World’s Contemporary Resort, to get some relief on those humid summer days.

Universal Studios also offers passes that give you access to all of their parks, including the brand new Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This long-awaited addition to Universal’s Islands of Adventure Theme park is now open! Step into a world of witchcraft and wizardry as you wander through Hogsmeade, past the Hogwarts Express, Zonkos Joke Shop and Honeydukes on your way to the all-new ride – The Forbidden Journey of Harry Potter in the extraordinary Hogwarts Castle. The hype surrounding this is very much justified, but be prepared to wait in line – this is the ‘must-do’ attraction in Orlando right now!

Besides these theme parks, there is a lot more that Orlando has to offer.

New in Orlando this year are helicopter tours. We have 3 options to choose from – one departing from International Drive near Universal Orlando, one from the Disneyworld area and another nighttime flight over the fireworks at Epcot Center. These are a great way to see the sights of Orlando in high-flying style!

Also new in recent months on Viator.com is Titanic – The Experience. This exhibition is centrally located on International Drive and is a must-see for the whole family. This display of both genuine and recreated artifacts from the most famous ship in history is truly breathtaking. You will discover everything about the Titanic – from the building of this mega-ship, to its passengers and crew, life aboard the ship and the terrible tragedy that took so many lives. To truly bring this life, when you enter, you’re given a card of a passenger or crew member that was aboard the ship, along with a mini biography. At the end of your guided tour, you can see if they managed to survive the crossing or not.

And if you’re thinking ahead to Fall, be sure to reserve your tickets to the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL home games. All seating is in the upper bowl and roundtrip transportation is provided so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

Florida is known for their alligators, so where better to start than at Gatorland? This is the place to go to get an up close look at all kinds of animals – from cute to scaly to scary ones. There is even the option to be a Gator Trainer for a Day!

Then there is the Fast and The Furious Daytona experience, part of our collection of NASCAR racing tours and ride-alongs in Orlando. If you’re a fan of racing you will love these tours! Out on the Daytona International Speedway you can feel the excitement that comes with having every seat filled and engines roaring around the track. This is definitely worth a day trip to check it all out.

Kennedy Space Center is another great day trip from Orlando. This is one place that has a lot to see and do. There are hands-on exhibits, IMAX movies and much more. This really is a must-do activity in Orlando.

Finally, there are all of the shows in Orlando. These offer a great way for families to end a perfect day. From pirates and knights to Arabian horses, you can combine good food and first class entertainment all in one place!

Next up: From July 1, we’ll be launching self-drive Manatee Swims for those customers that prefer to do things on their own and we will also start selling a 2-Day Miami Trip for a little R & R on South Beach. We also have a number of ‘top secret’ things in the works, so be sure to check back often to make sure you’re the first to know about these great new offerings!

We have also secured a number of discounts for you – save 5% on our Swim with Dolphins Overnight trip and from 1 July, we’ll have a 15% discount on the Clearwater Beach with Sea Screamer day trip. Combine this with our other discounts on Disney tickets, Kennedy Space Center, SeaWorld, dinner shows and more and you’ll have yourself an action-packed discounted vacation!

-Jenny Crossling

Planning a trip? Check out Viator’s complete list of Orlando tours and things to do. Or consider extending your stay in the Sunshine State and check out the colorful Art Deco District and Little Havana neighborhoods in Miami, or partake in a smorgasbord of water activities in the gorgeous environs of Key West.  If you need a place to stay, check out Hotels in Orlando on Planetware.com.

Top Things to Do in Orlando: An Update from Jenny by Jenny Crossling from Viator Travel Blog

Elephants at Bioparco, Rome

Perhaps you’ve heard that Rome isn’t the most hospitable place for children and families, but don’t be fooled! Families with children of all ages will find no shortage of interesting family-friendly activities around nearly every corner in Rome.

The trick to having a successful family vacation in Rome and keeping your sanity along the way is all in the pre-planning. If your children are old enough, get them involved by sharing ideas for places to visit and setting up a rough itinerary for your visit before you go.

If your children are younger, think about the various ‘equipment’ you’ll need to make for a comfortable stay, whether that means a portable crib, an umbrella stroller, or special layering clothes to adapt to the hot and humid summer temperatures or rainy winters. Keep in mind that Rome means a lot of walking, so plan your itinerary accordingly with various stops along the way, and don’t forget comfortable shoes for the whole family.

Of course, you won’t want to miss some of the ‘biggies’ like the Colosseum and the Pantheon, but the following suggestions are a few crowd-pleasing favorites for children of various ages that you may not have heard about before. Categorized by age groups, you may find you can even mix and match some activities regardless of age, depending on your children’s interests, maturity and energy level.

Rome for young children (ages 3-7)

At the top of the list of things for kids to do in Rome is Explora, the Rome Children’s Museum (Via Flaminia 82). As the name indicates, this is a hands-on exploratory experience for kids, and is divided into four sections – Me, Society, Environment, and Communication – to help them discover their world. Kids can stage a mock TV broadcast or wander around a transparent, environmentally-friendly house, and the typical ‘do not touch’ signs are nowhere to be found.

The Colosseum in Rome

Villa Borghese is a definite must, with something for everyone. Visit the Cinema dei Piccoli, (Viale della Pineta 15) classified in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s smallest cinema. Take a peek at the San Carlino Puppet Theater on Viale dei Bambini (Children’s Way) on the Pincio Hill. There’s a trenino or ‘little train’ that chugs around the park and takes off from Viale Goethe.

Also part of Villa Borghese and a fun stop for families is the Rome Zoo, called the Bioparco, with lots of special areas and exhibits just for children throughout the park.

For the cat lovers in your family, the famous Largo Argentina Cat Shelter is well worth a visit. Here, you’ll find friendly volunteers who run this no-kill shelter for abandoned cats on donations alone, in the marvelous setting of the Largo Argentina ruins. Tell your children the story of how Julius Caesar was assassinated here, and take them downstairs to visit the cat shop and see some of the shelter’s residents. Volunteers give English-language guided tours for free.

Rome with older kids (ages 8-12)

A trip back in time might be just the ticket for this age group, and the Time Elevator (Via dei SS. Apostoli 20) provides exactly this: a sort of interactive movie attraction with special effects that make it seem more like a ride, taking you back through 3,000 years of Roman history.

If you have time for an out-of-town excursion, the Monster Park at Bomarzo is about an hour’s drive north of Rome and is always a favorite with kids. This Renaissance garden has larger-than-life stone sculptures of various animals and ‘monsters’ that your children can climb on and, in the case of the leaning house, in!

No visit to Rome would be complete without two ‘traditions’ that you can teach your children about: the Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) and the Trevi Fountain. Watch the film Roman Holiday before you leave for your trip, then re-enact the scene at the Mouth of Truth, having each of your children put their hand in the ‘mouth,’ which is most likely an ancient Roman drain cover. If they still have their hands after this experiment, you can be sure they’re telling you the truth – or can you? Then take them over to the Trevi Fountain to throw in some coins, ensuring your return to Rome someday.

Rome with teenagers (ages 13-18)

Ferris wheel at LunEUR

A perennial favorite with Roman teenagers is LunEUR (Via delle Tre Fontane). This is Rome’s only amusement park (known in Italian as a ‘luna park’) and is one of the largest and oldest in Italy. Built in 1953 as part of an agricultural show, it took on its current form in 1962 and now houses over 130 attractions on more than 750,000 square feet.

What teenager doesn’t love shopping? Stroll Rome’s own ‘Rodeo Drive’, Via dei Condotti, then climb the Spanish Steps where Roman teenagers often hang out, mixing with the endless crowds of tourists. For shopping on a more realistic budget, steer your teenagers towards Via del Corso.

For teenagers who aren’t easily scared, venture down into the bone crypt and catacombs at the Santa Maria della Concezione Church (Via Veneto 27). Not for the faint of heart, this church has a permanent basement exhibit of bone sculptures made from – you guessed it – bones. Thousands of them, in fact, collected between 1528 and 1870 from nearly 4,000 Cappuchin friars who were buried here. Creepy enough to surprise even the most ‘know-it-all’ teenagers.

Family dining in Rome

Most places in Rome are fine for families, but a few places are worth a special mention. Taverna de’ Mercanti (Piazza de’ Mercanti) is probably the most authentic place to dine in old Rome. Housed in what was probably a stable from the 1400s, you pass through the medieval square and torch-lit entrance to climb a dark staircase that leads to a spacious, wood-filled, bustling dining room filled with old-fashioned atmosphere. Children of all ages can find something on the menu, from pizza to pasta and meat dishes, with a poster-sized paper menu you can take home.

Della Palma gelateria

Being a kid and eating ice cream go hand in hand, but only the lucky ones get to experience Roman gelato. Take them to Della Palma, just past the Pantheon at Via della Maddalena 20/23, where you’ll find 125 different flavors in the winter and 135 in the summer. Even your pickiest eater will find something to love.

Kid-sized shopping in Rome

Can’t go home without a stop at the toy store? Don’t miss Città del Sole (Via della Scrofa 65), an Italian chain that features a range of educational toys disguised as just plain fun.

You’ll probably see lots of people carrying shopping bags with a wooden Pinocchio on them—that’s because they’ve discovered Bartolucci (Via dei Pastini 98). Crammed full of hand-crafted pine wood toys and clocks with pendulums swinging every which way, the pure sensory overload of this shop makes it hard to keep your wallet in check—you’ll probably end up walking out with a bag of goodies just like everyone else.

Soccer fans in the family? Indulge their adoration of ‘La Roma’ at the AS Roma Store in Piazza Colonna. For fans of local rival team Lazio, the official team shop, Original Fans, is near the Termini train station on Via Farini 34.

-Shelley Ruelle

So get your family packed and ready… Italy is waiting! For more ideas see Viator’s complete list of things to do in Rome, tours in Venice, what to do in Florence, and tours & attractions in Italy. If you need a place to stay, check out Rome Hotels on Planetware.com.

Tips for Visiting Rome with Kids by Shelley Ruelle from Viator Travel Blog

My wife Fawn and I are city folk. We have always lived in cities, and when we travel, we usually spend some of our time in cities and some of our time in the country. For example, when we visit Fawn’s family in Vietnam, which we have done several times, we usually divide our stay equally between Saigon and the Mekong Delta. Occasionally we enjoy a day on the beach at Vung Tau or Nha Trang, where, as is the custom in Vietnam, we recline on chaises lounges in the shade of striped umbrellas. We are not really beach people.

Until a month ago, we didn’t have a beach towel to our names.

No ocean? No problem.

On the Oaxacan Coast a few years ago, we avoided the beach. The bay we stayed near was the terminus of a trash-clogged stream that had been flushed by a recent storm. We found accommodation in a humble hillside cabana in a dramatic jungle setting crawling with lizards and snakes. We did our bathing in an oversized swimming pool.

Our city kids become natural-born swimmers on Maui

On our first trip to Hawaii, long ago, we went to Honolulu to visit my wife’s sister, whose baby boy was being treated in a military hospital there. We took a day trip to Waimea Bay to watch the surfers, and we did a little snorkeling on Hanauma Bay, where the beach scenes of Elvis’ Blue Hawaii were shot. There were days when we visited the Bishop Museum or strolled through Chinatown, and didn’t dip a toe into the ocean (though it always seemed to be within view).

We have kids now, and our kids are city kids. They are hardy walkers and can hike up and down hills on weekend excursions, but to them wildlife primarily consists of squirrels, raccoons, and the mourning doves that roost in the eves of the apartment building next door. At about the age of five each developed the habit of informing me that killer whales are really orcas, but none could differentiate between a parrot fish and a saddleback wrasse. I have long suspected they are more comfortable in winter coats than in swim suits.

Yes, I have misgivings

When we began entertaining thoughts of a trip to Hawaii the idea was a little daunting to me. In old family vacation photos, my Irish aunts and uncles sit on beaches in coats and scarves, their smiles faintly visible in the deep shadows of floppy hats. They obviously knew, or at least feared, what harm the sun was capable of inflicting.

It is possible that the only point of the photos was to warn future generations of the family. If so, I failed to get the message. At about the age of 17 I fell asleep one afternoon next to a swimming pool. After an hour I awoke badly burned, and within a day’s time I was driven about as near to insanity as I have ever been. My skin was overcome with a sizzling, universal itch and my brain began to ring with a searing panic. I felt like a dog being attacked by thousands of fleas. A good friend warned me not to scratch. It would only make it worse. I asked him to kill me.

My misgivings about the sun unleashed deeper fears founded purely on themselves. What we were considering here wasn’t just a break from work, or the daily grind. It was a departure from reality. All that time, so little to do, apart from sip Mai Tais and shift my towel periodically to keep up with the moving shadow of a palm tree. It may sound like heaven to you, but it sounded like limbo to me. In my darker moments, which admittedly come a little too often, I worried that a week of mindless relaxation on a beach might be like inserting a vacuum cleaner into my skull – or, worse, into the mysterious, hard-to-find cavity in which my soul resides.

Singing the virtues of island paradise

Maui seemed suspiciously easy. It could be reached in five hours via a non-stop flight from San Francisco, on the airline that awards me bonus miles for my travel. There would be no issues with language, immigration, food, water, weather, currency, or driving on the wrong side of the road. Prices for everything would be a tad high, but just about everything would be available. What wasn’t there to like, other than the possibility that the inviting stream we had waded into would soon gather speed and carry us over a lovely waterfall and into oblivion.

Sunset over Molokai, Maui

Gradually my paranoia waned. Flights to Europe weren’t getting any cheaper, and an attractive flight + car rental package to Maui presented itself. I did the math, and the car essentially came out to be free. We flipped through a few guidebooks and began to extend discrete queries to friends who know Maui well. The friends, who rarely mentioned their Hawaii trips before, now opened up with the measured enthusiasm of cultists well trained in the art of fly-fishing for future converts. They handled me expertly.

Maui was perhaps the most touristy of the Hawaiian Islands, but it sounded like a safe bet for keeping parents and kids equally happy. Trusted advisors sang the virtues of Hana and its verdant surrounds. My ear was similarly soothed with the siren song of sunsets on Napili Bay, on the island’s dry side.

Napili won out when my cousin told me about her visits to the down-to-earth Mauian Hotel, which stood “no higher than the top of a palm tree,” in accordance with a local ordinance. The rooms overlooked a grassy courtyard – reportedly hopping with frogs at night – that opened directly to the azure bay with its gentle summer surf and accessible snorkeling, all of which sounded very much acceptable to me, Fawn, and our kids.

Fawn and I looked at each other and I said, “What the hell.” I booked the flight and she called the hotel.

Aloha from Maui

Napili Bay was developed in the late 1950s and early ’60s, before the building booms that yielded mega resorts such as Ka’anapali and Kapalua. The Napili Kai, the only resort, presides over the bay’s northern lip, and while it is impeccably groomed and pricey, it is modest in stature. Two-level hotels occupy the rest of the beachfront.

At a casual glance, the Mauian looks like a simple roadside motel, of mid-century vintage, with utilitarian architectural features and kitchenettes. Across the street from the Mauian, goats and chickens nibble and peck at the lawn in front of a single-family home. The Mauian is being spruced up, and recently began describing its rooms as “boutique beach studios,” but it will never be a resort. Comfort and a prevailing lack of pretense are a significant part of the hotel’s appeal. And its rooms go for one-third the price of the Napili Kai’s.

Settling into island life

Our first two days progressed very slowly as we adjusted to the pace of life on a beach. We walked the length of the bay and at one end peered into tide pools formed in lava flows. We swam in the ocean, we swam in the pool. We beat our own path between the two, breaking only for lunch. My five year old son, Liam, had been struggling at the YMCA aquatic program’s eel level for several months, but now he was scooting through the water like a natural born frog.

Enjoying the shaved ice stand in Honokohau

We ate in. A friend recommended stopping first at the Costco in Kahului, just outside the airport. I resigned myself to the idea begrudgingly, and now we were enjoying home-cooked fish every day. (Costcos are almost the same everywhere, but the Maui one had a fish selection that included mahi mahi, ono, and wild opah fillets.) We sat in the hotel’s beach chairs and watched the sun go down, which it did very slowly, the sky’s colors intensifying until the wispy swirl of clouds over Molokai looked like a molten lava ice cream topping. The redness eventually spread over the entire sky, magnificently, and reflected off the ocean. We watched it dim gradually like a dying campfire.

We spent almost all of our time together, the five of us. We had no TV, no computer, no internet. No one complained or dragged their heels. My teenage daughter, Mai, read a book a day, including a few I had recommended. (Very flattering to me.) We played blackjack and rummy 500, and Liam invented a card game in which some of the cards were good guys and some were bad guys. While Fawn and I lost ourselves in sunsets the kids poked their fingers into holes in the sand, looking for the small crabs that came ashore every night. One gave Mai a hard pinch on her hand, but didn’t draw blood.

Exploring Maui: Things to do & see

After a few days of beach limbo, we began to explore the island. One afternoon we drove up the rugged west coast to the little seaside hamlet of Honokohau. There were no hotels or restaurants or golf courses here. The tourist industry abruptly dies at Kapalua and the highway becomes two lanes, then one, and along a steep cliff edge I had to stop and back up when our car met another car going in the opposite direction. In the village we had shaved ice at a pink shack called Ululani’s. The we walked up the road to a lime green shack, called Julie’s, for banana bread still warm from the oven. I was never a big fan of banana bread, and now I knew why. I had never had Julie’s banana bread.

We drove up to the cone of Haleakala, the massive volcano that birthed East Maui. We reached the top in the early afternoon, just as the morning haze was lifting. The light wasn’t magical, as it is said to be during a cloudless sunrise, but the sight was spectacular nonetheless. Haleakala’s barren crater is invariably described as a moonscape, and that pretty much captures it. We took a short hike along a trail that follows the rim, and I snapped a few pictures of my kids standing around on the moon.

Haleakala Crater, Maui

We attempted a trip to Hana one day on the Hana Highway, but my daughter Lana’s carsickness compelled me to stop halfway, not far from the Ke’ananae Peninsula. A few cars were parked near a bridge, which often means there’s a swimming hole below. A man was getting out of his car with a baby and a dog, so I asked him if this was a good spot for a swim and he showed us the way down a slippery trail, where a waterfall dropped into a cool pool shaded by trees and surrounded by smooth rock. With our goggles on, we swam deep down into the dark pool and Liam pretended to be the Creature from the Black Lagoon.

We alternated days of driving with lazy days on the beach-pool circuit. We met our neighbors at the Mauian, including an elderly couple celebrating their 50th anniversary and a Filippino family that has spent a week a year at the hotel for the past decade. I got sunburned, but not to the point of madness. I wore a wetsuit top as a precaution.

I find peace among the fish

We rented snorkle gear at Snorkle Bob’s and over the last several days became well acquainted with the bay’s population of green sea turtles, puffer fish, trumpet fish, and countless varieties of butterfly fish. I was obviously a foreign intruder in this environment, awkward as Steve Zissou in my flippers. Once I had learned to snorkel underwater without gagging I found myself entering a world that was entirely new to me, with cultural pockets, patterns of activity, and coral architecture that I didn’t wholly understand but found endlessly interesting and beautiful.

The fish did not seem to mind me as they went about their business. The turtles, each about large enough to fill a large washtub, are like underwater dirigibles, silently stirring up clouds of algae as they feed off the coral. You don’t always see them coming. They have a way of turning up at your side. I drifted far out into the bay, losing myself in densely populated corridors, until I bobbed up above the surface and found that the sandy beach was a mere sliver of bronze beyond the waves. It looked miles away.

In the end, the days had flown by and we were sad to leave. Will we do it again? Probably, though we have a dozen other spots we’d like to check out first. And next time we head for the islands, maybe we’ll check out one of the other ones. Some friends have been telling us about the Big Island and Kauai.

-Tom Downs

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Maui tours and things to do on Maui, from Maui luaus to Maui snorkeling and inter-island trips from Maui.

Maui: Just the Ticket for Beach Novices by Tom Downs from Viator Travel Blog