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I mean c’mon there is not one reason, look at th I mean c’mon there is not one reason, look at this view from the top of the Kloof Corner hike! The biggest way we’re able to afford traveling so much is by letting the deals dictate where we go. Cape Town has been on our bucket list forever but with flights typically costing $1,200-$1,800 it hasn’t been a priority. But when Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going, I don’t like the new name but that’s besides the point) dropped this Cape Town deal for less than half of what it normally costs we jumped on it!

So often I hear “but there are no deals during school breaks”, YES THERE ARE! We went to Cape Town for Thanksgiving and the girls get the entire week off of school so they missed no days. Plus since there seasons are opposite it was late spring and the weather was amazing. Scott’s emails deals directly to your inbox for the airports you choose (we select our home airport and airports we can easily fly direct to and always have cheap flights because sometimes it’s worth flying to a city for a deal (known as a repositioning flight). They offer a free version but you don’t get all the deals so we have the Premium subscription which costs $49 for a year and you can tap the link in my bio and use code TRAVELINGCHILD20 for 20% off. They have an Elite membership level for business class seats. Because someone always asks, yes they give deals for nonstop flights but please remember you can’t fly everywhere nonstop. Beloved if you’re going to Thailand from the US you’re going to have a layover.

Anyway when in Cape Town you must hike, there are so many amazing ones! This Kloof’s Corner hike is perfect for sunset. It’s not stroller or wheelchair accessible as there are stairs but if Jordyn and Kennedy can hike it in 40mins (one way up) I promise you don’t have to be super fit!

P.S. when booking a flight from the US you have 24 hours to cancel & get a refund (on flights booked 7 days in advance). So many ppl told me they hesitated on this deal because they had to see if they could get off work/what dates worked for their travel partners. Always book first, think second & just cancel within 24hrs if you can’t make it work! What’s the best flight deal you’ve booked?
Hello from Cape Town, South Africa! Here’s every Hello from Cape Town, South Africa! Here’s everything you need to know about getting into South Africa (save + share this post):

1. Your passport must be valid for 30 days after your scheduled date of departure.

2. You must have 2 consecutive empty pages in your passport.

3. There is no visa required for US citizens for visits less than 90 days.

4. There are no shots required to travel to South Africa, unless you are traveling from or transiting through yellow-fever deemed countries, then a yellow fever shot is required. You can find a list of these countries online.

5. South Africa has opposite seasons than the US so our winter is their summer. December to February are peak travel due to the weather but if you visit in November like we did you’ll get good weather and avoid the massive crowds of peak season.

Have you visited South Africa? If so, which part? If not, is it on your list?
Because why do y’all do this to us trip planners Because why do y’all do this to us trip planners? Are you the one in your group that plans the trip or do you just show up? If you’re the planner tag your friends 😅. If you just show up do you look at the itinerary or ask all the questions even though the info was given to you 👀?

Original reel idea credit goes to @kryssedeal, sis really nailed exactly how I feel!!
#sponsored Last year we were able to cross some am #sponsored Last year we were able to cross some amazing places off our bucket list. We want you to do the same so we’ve teamed up with @vrbo to give you the opportunity to win $3,500 and turn your bucket list trip into a book-it-list one! 

Just head over to the giveaway post on @vrbo, make sure you’re following them and tag 3 people you’d want to join you on your trip! 

So what is your book-it list vacation this year?

*T&Cs apply – link in bio

 #VrboTogether #BookItList
Things to do in Istanbul (save and share this post Things to do in Istanbul (save and share this post):

1. Visit the various houses of worship like Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque. Suleymaniye Camii, Ortakoy Mosque, Chora Church and the Camlica Mosque

2. Tour palaces like Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace

3. Climb the Galata Tower for amazing views of Istanbul. You can even enjoy a meal here at the restaurant on the top floor.

4. Take a cruise of the Bosphorus to see both the European and Asia side of Istanbul.

5. Visit the cities Bazaars, the Grand Bazaar where you can shop your heart out and the Spice Bazaar where you can eat your heart out. Don’t leave without trying a Turkish delight!

6. If you want to go shopping Istiklal is the place to do so. They have a wide range of stores including international chains like Zara.

7. See a Dervish show at Hodjapasha.

8. Walk across the Galata Bridge to see fisherman at work and then walk under it to taste their fresh catches.

9. Take a day trip to the Princes’ Islands.

10. Experience a Turkish Hammam.

11. Explore the neighborhood of Balet, enjoying the colorful building and have some traditional Turkish tea or my favorite Apple Tea.

12. Turkey has some amazing food so go on a food tour or take a cooking class. If you don’t do either just make sure not to leave without having a traditional Turkish breakfast!

I recommend at least 5 days in Istanbul but you can easily spend a week or more exploring the city.

Have you been to Istanbul? If not is it on your list? For those that have been what was your favorite thing to do?

#istanbul #bucketlistadventures
Our Egypt Itinerary (save + share this post): 3 n Our Egypt Itinerary (save + share this post):

3 nights Siwa: Shali Fortress, 4x4 safari in the Great Sand Sea, sunset on Fatnas Island, emple of Amun and Temple of the Oracle, take a look or a dip into Cleopatra Spring, Mountain of the Dead, House of Siwa Museum, float in the salt lakes.

5 nights Cairo: Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx,  Egyptian Museum, Saqqara, Khal Al Khalil, Old and Coptic Cairo: Hanging Church, Mohamed Ali Mosque, Al Azhar Mosque and the Fortress of Babylon, see an Al Tannoura Egyptian Dance Heritage Show at Wekalet El Ghouri. For a break from the historical things with kids spend a day at Dreamland Park, Kidzania, or Ski Egypt. Stay at Marriott Mena House.

3 nights Luxor: Hot air balloon ride, Luxor Museum, Mummification museum, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Temple of Karnak, Temple of Luxor, Colossi Statue of Memnon and Hatshpsut

3 nights Aswan: High Dam, Temple of Philae, Nubian Villages, Sail on the Nile by Felucca, Nubian Museum, Abu Simbel

On the way to Aswan from Luxor you can also stop to see the Temple of Horus and Kim Ombo Temple. If you have extra time visit Alexandria, Bahariya Oasis, and White Desert National Park to see the White Desert.

Have you been to Egypt? Is it on your list? There is so much to see outside of Cairo! 

#bucketlisttravel #cairoegypt #luxoregypt #aswan
OUR MOROCCO ITINERARY (save + share this post):

🇲🇦2 nights Chefchaouen- painting class, hiking, enjoying the Blue City and more.

🇲🇦3 nights Fes- Royal palaces, Moroccan dance class, visit the tannery and more

🇲🇦6 nights Marrakech- Majorelle Gardens, explore the Medina, explore the various mosques, stay in a riad, take a Moroccan cooking class and more.

🇲🇦3 nights Sahara Desert- ATV tour, sand boarding, Bedouin experience and more.

For all the details of each trip tap the link in my bio for the itineraries of each city. Have you been to Morocco? Is it on your list?

P.S. the girls were 3 and 5 on this trip

#moroccotrip #thisisafrica #travellingwithkids

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(Review) NORTHSTAR Lodge & SKI RESORT: What To Do & Where To Stay

February 10, 2019      California, Destinations, Hotel Reviews, North America

This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more information. All opinions are my own.

I recently visited Lake Tahoe in the winter and stayed at Northstar Resort for the first time and it was a fantastic experience. For those of you who are not familiar, Northstar Lodge & Ski Resort is a luxury ski resort in the Lake Tahoe region of California. Though it’s only 108 miles from Sacramento, its remote location makes it feel like you’re worlds away. There is so much to do at this ski resort! There are plenty of slopes to explore, and the terrain is perfect for any level skier or snowboarder. 

 Beyond skiing, there are many other activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, and swimming in the heated pool. I can’t forget the spa treatments and fine dining, there are so many fun things to do at Northstar Village. Plus, there’s plenty of lodging options- from luxurious hotels to rustic cabins with wood-burning fireplaces to condos. I didn’t have enough time to explore all the restaurants but I did try out some great food at The Grille at Sawtooth Ridge – their fish tacos were amazing! Whether you’re on a family vacation or just want some time away by yourself, Northstar has something for everyone.

Lodging at Northstar Ski Resort

When you visit Northstar Village, you’ll find a variety of lodging options that suit any vacation style. The resort offers luxury hotel suites with Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces in the rooms to rustic cabins complete with wood-burning fireplaces.  If you’re looking for a condo rental, Northstar has that too! They have two-story townhomes, and private homes with up to 5 bedrooms!

During my stay at Northstar I had the opportunity to stay at two different places, thanks to being a member of the 2019 Digital Influencer Advisory Board for Visit California. This way I got to see two different sides of lodging and both had their perks. I first stayed in a one bedroom at Coyote Fork, followed by a two bedroom two story townhome in Indian Hills.

Northstar Ski Resort: Coyote Fork

Coyote Fork is apartment style lodging at Northstar Ski Resort. I had a one bedroom/one bathroom with a full kitchen, living room, dining table and fireplace. The kitchen and bathroom are outdated but other than that it was a comfortable stay. Coyote Fork is in a great location as it’s walking distance to Northstar Village, just 5 minutes. There is plenty of parking in front of the units. However, beware there are a lot of stairs depending on your unit and no elevators if you aren’t on the first floor.

Northstar Ski Resort Coyote Fork one Bedroom with a queen bed

Northstar Resort Coyote Fork Kitchen and living room view

Northstar Ski Resort: Indian Hills

After one night at Coyote Fork I was moved to a two bedroom two story townhome in Indian Hills. My room was equipped with two bedrooms and one bathroom downstairs. One bedroom had a king size bed while the other had two twin beds. There was also a washer and dryer which is perfect extended stays or for those who pack light.

Northstar Ski Resort Indian Hills Condo Bedroom

Northstar Ski Resort Indian Hills Condo Bathroom

Upstairs was an updated kitchen, breakfast nook, pull out couch, fireplace and an outdoor patio with a grill. The kitchen comes with all the utensils you need to make a proper meal. Indian Hills is not walking distance to Northstar Village however there is a shuttle stop right outside the cul de sac. When you’re ready to head to Northstar Village you can request the shuttle from the app or by calling the shuttle line. I never waited more than 5 minutes for a shuttle. The shuttle runs to and from Northstar Village or to wherever you’d like to go daily from 8am-10pm.

Northstar Ski Resort Indian Hills Condo Living Room

Northstar Ski Resort Indian Hills Condo Kitchen

Northstar Village Shops

Shopping in Northstar Village is a must-do! There really isn’t anything you can’t buy at the Northstar Village shops. No matter what you’re looking for – from Lululemon to North Face to Burton if you forgot anything on your ski trip packing list you can find it here. – Northstar has it all. The village is home to some of the best ski and snowboard shops in Tahoe. Most shops are open from 8am-8pm or until 9pm on the weekends. You can check out all the shops here.

Northstar Ski School

The Northstar Ski School offers lessons through Burton Academy for both skiing and snowboarding. Kids can take ski lessons starting at 3 years old. They offer both private and group lessons depending on your needs. All the equipment you need is available for rental. If you plan to take snowboarding lessons I highly recommend Trevor as your instructor. I had never snowboarded before and look at all we accomplished in our one day lesson.

Northstar Village Childcare

If you had kids who aren’t old enough to ski or just don’t want to that doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying the slopes. Northstar Ski Resort offers childcare for kids 2-6 years old from 8:30am-4:30pm. Your child’s stay includes lunch, snacks, and both indoor and outdoor play. You can find the most up to date rates here. If you’re considering ski resorts in other states I highly recommend Northstar’s sister property in Colorado, Keystone Ski Resort, it’s perfect for families.

Things to Do at Northstar Village

If you get tired of skiing or snowboarding at Northstar Ski Resort there are plenty of other things to do at Northstar village. The Village is without a doubt the focal point of Northstar. It’s where you’ll find all the shops, restaurants, and some of the lodging, as well as activities like ice skating,  spa treatments and even a movie theater. When you’re trying to figure out what to do in Northstar it won’t take you long to land on something great!

Northstar Village Candle Shop

Looking for a practical souvenir? The Northstar Village Candle Shop allows you to have fun creating various projects that you can take home and put to use. While it’s called the candle shop and you can of course make your own candles there’s more to do. Kids can make their own stuffed animal including picking out a special outfit. Both kids and adults can paint pottery and adults can decorate their own wine glasses.

Northstar Village Ice Skating

The Northstar Village has an ice skating rink right in the middle of it. The rink is open from 12pm to 9pm weather permitting. Ice skating is free but if you don’t have your own skates they are $5 to rent. If you’re traveling with kids they will without a doubt want to give this activity a try!

Northstar Village Ice Skating Rink
Photo Courtesy of North Lake Tahoe

Tahoe Spa and Wellness at Northstar Village

Need to relax after skiing or snowboarding? Visit the Northstar Village Spa for various treatments. You can also take various yoga classes at the Yoga studio. The studio offers various classes including traditional yoga along with classes focused on recovering from snow sports.

Northstar Village Tubing at the Overlook

While Northstar Ski Resort offers tubing on the mountaintop Northstar Village offers tubing at The Overlook for Northstars smallest guests. Here kids 42” and shorter can enjoy tubing at ther perfect length and speed for them. Tubing here is also at a reduced rate of $20 for the entire day.

Northstar Village Tubing at the Overlook

Northstar Village S’more Time

Everyday at 4pm by the ice skating rink Northstar provides all the ingredients for you to make your own s’mores free of charge. Just remember it’s on a first come first serve basis so arrive early before all the supplies are gone!

Northstar Village Movie Theater

Can you believe Northstar Ski Resort has its own movie theater? It’s actually genius and the perfect activity for a snowy day when skiing, snowboarding, tubing, or ice skating isn’t an option. This scenario was the case for me when Lake Tahoe got hit by a storm during my visit and all my activities were cancelled. There are two theaters and two different movies playing at a time. Adults are $13 while children and seniors are $9 and the theater comes with a full concession stand.

Northstar Village Movie Theater

Northstar Village Restaurants

Northstar Village features a variety of dining options for every appetite and budget. With 23 dining options with 16 of them being in Northstar Village, you’ll find something that suits everyone’s taste. You’ve got… 

  • – Los Arcos
  • – Rubicon Pizza Company
  • – Bourbon Pub  
  • – Frites
  • and PetraJust to name a few!

Several of the restaurants are closed during summer and operate at varying hours. Some are also takeout only, so make sure to plan out which restaurants you will be eating from and when. The nice thing is that options range from snacks to casual fare to fine dining. Here is where I ate during my stay.

Northstar Village Breakfast Options

Starbucks: Is there anywhere Starbucks isn’t? If you need a quick bite before ski lessons Starbucks is the perfect option. Arrive before 9am to beat the crowds!

Euro Snack: Euro Snack offers freshly made Belgian Waffles for breakfast! They also sell paninis, gelato and other European style snacks.

Northstar Village Lunch and Dinner Options

Rubicon Pizza: Who doesn’t like pizza? If you’re looking for a very casual dining option Rubicon is it. The menu consists of a variety of pizza, pasta, and salad options.

The Grille at Sawtooth Ridge: Still casual but offering much more than pizza and pasta my lunch at Sawtooth Ridge was great. I ordered the fish tacos but you can choose from other types of tacos, burgers, and entrees such as Rib-Eye and Ahi Tuna.

Northstar Village Dining Sawtooth Ridge

Tavern 6330’: While the meals at Tavern 6330 or more fine dining and come with the price tag to match you can still wear your ski gear to eat here. The lunch menu is more casual and less expensive but I ate here for dinner. With menu items like Lobster Risotto and Chilean Sea Bass you’re in for a real treat.

Northstar Village Dining Tavern 6330'

My Review Of Northstar Ski Resort

I absolutely loved my stay at Northstar Ski Resort and would love to return. The ski and snowboard instructors are top-notch, making beginners feel extremely comfortable. If you’re a foodie you will love all the restaurant options whether you have time to sit down for a meal or need grab-and-go options. When traveling with winter clothes that take up a lot of space, having a washer and dryer available in your accommodations is always great so you can pack less base layers and wash them allowing you to pack lighter. 

Ski resorts can often forget that people need a break from skiing with Northstar that’s not the case. Being able to watch a movie in a theater, make candles, take a yoga class, and more all in the village was such a treat. I loved my stay at Northstar Ski Resort and can’t wait to revisit.

Northstar Ski Lodge & Resort Is One of The Best Lake Tahoe Resorts!

It’s clear to see why Northstar Ski Resort is continuously ranked as one of the best Lake Tahoe resorts. Northstar Lodge & Ski resort has it all. With a plethora of restaurants, shops, and snowy activities you’ll never get bored. Beautiful lodging accommodations for every budget, we have something to offer everyone! Lake Tahoe in the winter is such a special time and Northstar has so many winter activities to take advantage of. The Northstar Village is phenomenal and I hope to return. Interested in other California cities? Check out our itineraries for Santa Barbara, Huntington Beach, Oceanside, and Anza Borrego. Did you find this post helpful? Please share it! What are you looking forward to most about staying at Northstar Ski Resort?

I was invited to Lake Tahoe as a member of the 2019 Digital Influencer Advisory Board for Visit California. As always all opinions are my own and true!

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Hi! We’re The Hambricks

Hi! We’re The Hambricks

If kids live there, kids can visit! That's our motto and you'll often find us exploring destinations most don't find "kid friendly". We've traveled to 35 countries on 6 continents with our children since they were 10 weeks old and share tips to make it easier and affordable. But mom and dad are people too so we also write about solo travel, baecations and girlfriend getaways.

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