Winning Wednesday: William Joseph CD

Italy, Hawaii, Australia, Alaska, Ireland, Paris, and tropical getaways seem to be tops on everyone’s list of dream places to visit.

The last time someone mentioned to me that they dreamed of going to Australia, I encouraged her to go. It happened to be my cousin, who came back after a two week tour to sell her condo and car and ended up moving to Surfer’s Paradise.

We never know what path in life we may travel, but keep those dreams and actually plan to see these places. Some of you want to see family, others just want the excitement of seeing a new place. I know first-hand how awesome it can be to work towards the goal of a destination and the emotions that overwhelm you once you get there.

Congrats to the following winners of William Joseph’s latest CD, Beyond. We hope you will travel to your dream destinations in the near future. Be sure to take your new CD with you on your journeys.

Sharon Fairclough dreams of Paris. Bobv wants to see Tahiti. Flora Presley fantasizes about Greece and has a closer dream of Mount Rushmore. Debf would like to visit Australia (say hi to my cousin for me) and Andrea Bialy has a desire to see Lebanon.

Congrats to all our dreamers. Check your email addresses so I can get a mailing address to send your prize. Remember that dreams can become a reality. Be sure to check out some of Traveling Mamas tips for saving. Instead of saying you would like to go somewhere, change your thinking and say you WILL go to that special place.

The Best Luau in Hawaii Isn’t a Luau After All

Luaus are a staple of Hawaiian vacations. Many hotels and resorts, on most parts of the major islands, either have on-site luaus or provide shuttle service to them. Several boast of having the best luau in Hawaii. And, frankly, many luaus are interchangeable. Sure, one has more fire-twirling than another, say, but the buffet dinners (always with poi, another staple of a Hawaiian vacation) and shows can seem pretty much the same.

And then there’s The Gathering of Kings, on the Big Island of Hawaii. Part mystical creation-story and history lesson, part Cirque de Soleil, The Gathering of Kings is to a luau the way toro sushi is to a tuna melt. I’ve been to a few luaus in my time, and believe me; this is more a theatrical dance performance, and truly the one to see. The show is based at the Fairmont Orchid, a top luxury resort on the Kohala Coast, and tourists come from all over the island to see it. The Gathering of Kings tells a story through song and dance – the story of Polynesian travels and how they settled on islands such as Tahiti and (of course) Hawaii. Each island’s traditional dances are performed, and it’s really a magical – and enlightening – experience to watch the joyous, flirtatious Samoan dances and the warrior-like dances of the Maori. The Polynesian cultures adapted to each Pacific island. Each island, in turn, was irrevocably influenced by the Polynesian culture.

The dancers perform skillfully with, alternately, wonderful grace and strength. I found the leads to be incredibly charismatic throughout, and I’m so happy I was fortunate enough to see The Gathering of Kings on the Big Island of Hawaii. At the end of the performance, the four kings representing the settled islands stand together on stage, and this show of unity is more than a little moving.

It’s no surprise that the soundtrack from this best (non) luau in Hawaii won a Hawaii Music Award (like a Hawaiian Grammy). The music perfectly captured the magic of the creation story and mystic Polynesian travels, with each island’s music integrated into the flow. Listening to the music now, as I am, not only brings back memories of an enriching evening. It also stirs thoughts of how everyone is descended from travelers and settlers – and that the unity represented at the end of The Gathering of Kings is a concept we can all learn from.

Weekend Road Trip: The Arizona Salsa Trail

A few weeks back my husband and I decided to load up the tots and take a little jaunt over to Safford, Arizona and explore an Arizona culinary attraction: The Salsa Trail. The “trail” runs along Southeast Arizona’s Old West Highway and consists of thirteen restaurants, a tortilla factory and a chile factory.  

When we pulled into the parking lot of the Best Western Desert Inn, our home for the night, the parking lot was filled with a rainbow of polished classic cars. The owners were walking around in hats and t-shirts that said, “I Survived the Salsa Trail”. It was the Classy Car Club from Wickenburg, Arizona in town for the weekend cruising the Salsa Trail. 

Not only were the car club members friendly, the entire town welcomed us with open arms. Locals waved as we drove by, while a smile and warm hello became the norm every time we passed someone on the street. Even when I tried to push the double stroller up a curb and my children almost ended up splattered on the concrete locals ran up to help.

 

Over two days we hit five of the restaurants (Safford is home to eight of the restaurants, tortilla factory, and the chili farm) and believe me when I say this is an experience where polishing off an entire bowl of chips is not recommended. Our first stop was at the Salsa Fiesta in Wilcox. We ate a full lunch there, which was quite good by the way, but from then on we simply tasted the variety of salsas with a few chips. Each restaurant’s salsa was so unique and tasted so fresh.

 

After we all had our fill, we took the kids back to the Best Western to splash in the pool and watch a stunning Arizona sunset. The next day we hit the local coffee shop on Main Street called A Step Back in Time where barista Mikayla made us a couple of great cups of java.

 

Next, we crossed the street for breakfast at El Coronado Family Restaurant where it seemed everyone knew each other by name. The kids indulged in yummy pancakes while Jeff and I had some tasty breakfast burritos, with their special salsa of course. Delish! I can’t wait to go back and try the rest of the Salsa Trail restaurants.

 

 

Discover Maui’s Upcountry

DesertMama and I decided to relax during our visit to Westin Maui Resort and Spa. The two of us spent a day enjoying lomi lomi massages at The Heavenly Spa while the other Mamas went hiking. We found out that the lavender spa products being sold were made right there on Maui. So we hopped in the car the next morning in search of lavender.

Ali’i Kula Lavender is located in Maui’s Upcountry, which is a day trip experience that will delight all the senses. The drive from Ka’anapali was a beautiful, relaxing 1hour journey into the higher altitudes of Maui. We could inhale scents of ocean and lavender at the same time. The calmness of the Upcountry enveloped us in a comforting embrace.

Upon our arrival to Ali’i Kula, were were greeted with warm lavender scones topped with lavender liliko’i jelly, lavender herb tea and lavender coffee. We sat at a corner table overlooking the gardens and valley while we awaited our tour. Our guide, Cookie, came to lead us around the gardens, snipping flowers here and there while educating us on the different types of lavender. By the end of the tour, each of us had a small bouquet of lavender. Of course I had to stop at the gift shop on the way out and DesertMama had to drag me out of there before I spent all of Mr. CajunMama’s money.

Our next stop was Tedeschi Vineyards, Maui’s Winery. It is said Ulupalakua simmers in each sip and that you can taste the sun, the soft evening fog, and a hundred years of history in each glass. We were already relaxed from the scent of lavender that enveloped the car, so we decided wine tasting was a fitting activity to pursue next.

Maui’s Winery Tasting Room is located in a historic cottage. The cottage was built in 1874 for King David Kalakaua. DesertMama and I walked up to the bar, which is made from the trunk of a mango tree. The winery offers grape, pineapple and specialty wines.

I’m not a big red wine lover, so I chose to taste the Upcountry Blush, Maui Blanc, Maui Splash, and Raspberry Wine. The Blush is a fantastic choice to bring home to friends and family. It does not need aging and its light berry flavors are subtle, yet nice. The Maui Blanc is my favorite. It is a pineapple wine with a subtle lingering tropical finish. The Splash was a delight as well, but very sweet with its essence of passion fruit. The Raspberry Wine tasted like a chocolate covered raspberry with a rich and full flavor that stays with you.

The Winery will ship your order to certain states, depending on your local laws. This is a great help in bringing home memories of Maui now that the airlines are charging for baggage. Unfortunately I brought a small suitcase and my state does not allow me to ship wine home. Pooey! I guess that means I’ll just have to go back to Maui.

We stepped across the street to the Ulupalakua Ranch Store and ordered burgers for lunch before heading out to find Surfing Goat Dairy, our last stop for the day. We went the wrong way and ended up being surprised by an ocean overlook. By the time we figured out the direction we needed to be going, we had the giggles. DesertMama and I were reminiscing about our favorite SNL skits of days gone by. We thought GoatBoy was fitting for the moment and we couldn’t sto-o-o-o-p laughi-i-i-ing!

Surfing Goat Dairy was a delightful surprise. At first we thought we just driving through a neighborhood when a long drive of palm trees appeared with a well-manicured entrance. We walked around the to the outdoor café with its funky surf architecture. The place just had a cool vibe. Tours are available and visitors can even milk a goat, but we opted to try a sampler of Surfing Goat Dairy’s award winning cheeses. The offerings are so delicious, it is no wonder their product is in demand at fine restaurants around the globe.

The day was wonderful and Maui’s Upcountry is suitable for families (except the wine tasting), romantic escapes, and girlfriend getaways. We even noticed a number of solo travelers biking their way around the Upcountry. Take some time to get away from your resort and discover the surprises Maui has to offer.

Molokai Sunset on Papohaku Beach

While I’m not even going to attempt to be as beautifully poetic as DesertMama was in her eloquent post about the break of dawn on Kaua’i, I did want to share with you my experience watching the sunset on a deserted beach on the west end of Molokai.

Hawaii’s sixth-largest island, Molokai is known as the “Friendly Isle,” and indeed its residents are incredibly welcoming — people think nothing of hugging you hello and good-bye, even if you’d just met! But it’s also wonderfully pristine, with very limited development. Zero traffic lights!

Molokai is an ideal vacation destination for folks who want to get back to nature to discover what the rest of Hawaii was like before high-rise resorts and sprawling strip malls. Just 38 miles long and 10 miles wide, with no more than 8,000 residents, it’s easy to get to know Molokai ntimately, even over the course of a short stay. (Though I did meet one East Coast couple who was on the island for 11 days in an effort to ‘drop out’ and disconnect for a while — from technology I presume, not each other…)

I read about Papohaku Beach in my trusty Frommer’s guidebook, which said it’s not atypical to find the wide, sandy bay virtually empty. No people, just footprints, the guide said.

Indeed, when i made the early evening, 20-mile drive to the westerly beach from the main town of Kaunakakai on the southeast end, I found only a handful of tent campers in the grassy stretch between the parking lot and the beach. I saw no families there cleaning up their towels and sand toys after a day at the beach, nor any couples sharing a bottle of wine while watching the sun sink into the ocean. No one. Nada. Zilch.

It was totally surreal to be walking such a large beach alone. Perhaps spooky is a better word. Just me in my own head, wishing I had my husband or someone else to share my experience with. The views were stunning: sand dunes and drifts as far down the bay as the eye could see–in both directions–totaling a three-mile stretch of beach. What a playground!

But seeing the pretty sunset — alone — just strengthened my resolve to bring my entire family back to Molokai — not only to take in the wonderful natural scenery and take part in fun excursions and outdoor adventures like snorkeling and kayaking, but to get to know “old Hawaii” and contrast it with some of the more populated resort areas we’ve visited.

For now, my photographs will have to suffice, but I do look forward to sharing this magical island with my family… some day!

Mama on the Move – Hawaii Hiking to Petroglyphs

Like millions of other Americans, I recently saw the new Indiana Jones movie, and I’ve been feeling a little ‘adventure-y” ever since. Looking over my map of the Big Island in Hawaii, I saw the perfect hiking opportunity to satisfy my outdoor adventure jones (no pun intended) by exploring the Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve, very near the luxury resort area in South Kohala. Now, the Big Island of Hawaii has the most – and best preserved – petroglyphs of any in the state. Visitors can park in the Holoholokai Beach Park lot and make it part of a day in South Kohala. Petroglyphs, for the uninitiated, are sort of like the hieroglyphs of ancient Egypt, except they’re primitive carvings into stone. Each represents something, such as warriors, chiefs, and important births.

The Malama Trail leads right up from Holoholokai Beach, and the fun starts in less than a quarter mile. Now, this is no lush, green part of Hawaii. It’s hot, dry, and arid; you’ll sweat standing still. I found sunblock to be a must, at least initially. After passing some well-tended to petroglpyhs, the intrepid explorer (me!) heads down a tree-covered path, with virtually no other archeological adventure type tourists around (I passed two couples total). Crossing a fire road, I was happy and excited to hear nothing but tropical birds, and see nothing but trees, lava, and occasional, scattered petroglyphs. The iconic theme music for Indiana Jones bounced around my head: There I was, the rugged explorer, in a land that has been remarkably unchanged for 1,500 years (the estimated age of the first petroglyphs in Hawaii). Sure, instead of a fedora, I’ve got a baseball cap. And my weapon is not a whip, it’s a compact digital camera. So what? Look at me, I’m tromping around the underbrush just like my hero-slash-mad high school crush.

The hiking trail isn’t the most clearly laid out – all the better for adventuring – but you can’t get lost unless you try. I made a few detours and “discovered” prehistoric lava tubes. When the Polynesians landed on the Hawaiian islands, these lava tubes served as perfectly good homes and places for meetings of local chiefs. The entrances were mostly a little too cobwebby for me (sorry, Indy!) but there was one that I crawled into and was able to fully stand in without banging my head. At least not much, anyway. Ouch.

The proper trail ends quickly, in less than 2 miles. It’s here that we get to the star of the show: The Puako Petroglyph Preserve, with over 3,000 drawings in a flat rock field. The Polynesian and Hawaiian appreciation for lines through generations of families is laid out, in stone as it were, from right to left. The oldest and most simple petroglyphs are to the right, with stick figures representing canoes, animals, and important people of their day. As we look towards the left, we see the evolution from simplicity to more complex carvings that have triangles and squares for male and female torsos.

It’s inspiring to step back, and consider that a hundred generations of Hawaiian families trekked to this very spot to carve their place in history. No one knows for certain what all the symbols represent anymore – their meanings have been lost to time. And no one knows exactly why the Hawaii natives stopped doing this, either. Some suggest it’s because of the missionaries who came later, others say it’s because the ancient Hawaiians were concerned about running out of space on the stone field to carve important glyphs, and wanted to save room for their future generations. Walking lightly among the thousands of thousand-year old stone carvings, I know that not even Indiana Jones, archeologist of my dreams, could have the answers to these age-old questions. And I feel that we are all part of something larger than ourselves and our day to day worries. We are part of the lines of our own families, stretching back, and forwards, in time.

Surreal. Magical. A Kaua’i Sunrise.

I sat up straight in bed, jarred from a deep sleep, and looked around the Kaha Lani Resort bedroom. What was that noise? There was enough light coming through the windows to tell dawn was approaching. I heard “it” again, now realizing “it” was Mother Nature’s colorful alarm clock. I lay down, but it crowed once more, this time with a friend.

I cringed and cover my ears.

The roosters, hens and baby chicks seen on Kaua’i are products of Hurricane Iniki’s September 11, 2002 destruction when the caged birds escaped, never to be held captive again. Instead, they were fruitful and multiplied and multiplied and multiplied and now run wild all across the Hawaiian “Garden Island”.

Some people find them annoying while others such as myself find them charming, that was until my early morning wake-up call.

There was no way I was going to be able to fall back to sleep. I wandered to the window overlooking the ocean to see a dull looking sky with a hint of brightness in the distance. The sun had yet to rise. I quickly changed into cropped pants and a navy blue tank top and grabbed my camera. Barefoot, I flew down the three flights of wooden stairs and across a short spread of grass. I climbed down a few boulders and jumped into the sand. A woman dressed in black was situated in the sand, involved in the yoga stance downward facing dog as the ocean’s waved crashed only yards from her feet and hands.

The wet sand felt soft between my toes while telling of the ocean’s recent presence. My feet were the first to walk the beach that morning. Just like every new day, the slate had been wiped clean and new adventures were to begin. The sun slowly crept into the sky, dodging behind clouds, occasionally allowing its reflection to dance on the water. The waves rolling onto the shore were the only sound except for the occasional rooster’s crow. As the waves kissed my ankles and the light taste of saltwater glossed my lips I was surprised to find my heart filled with gratitude for the little creature whose purpose is so often overlooked.

Once the sun was in the sky I found myself looking forward to the day and the next morning’s sunrise.

Mama on the Move: Segway of Hawaii

The other night I strolled along Waikiki Beach with my local friend Jeanne whom I met a few years ago. We watched the fireworks at Hilton Hawaiian Village that occurs almost every Friday night. I noticed a bunch of people on Segways and they looked like they were having a blast. So, I went ahead and booked a morning three-hour tour of Honolulu History and Culture.

First I was given a helmet, which made me feel a bit dorky, but for safety reasons I was glad to have something to protect my super powerful rock star brain. Alan, Segway of Hawaii owner, gave me a training lesson before the tour. At first I was hesitant, because this thing is just two wheels. It doesn’t look like something I should step my chubby body onto, but Alan assured me the weight limit is 280 lbs, so I’m all good on that problem.

I stepped onto the Segway, thinking it would tip over, but to my amazement the thing balances itself. Before long, I was gliding in and out of cones and able to stop on a dime (almost). Michael, my tour guide, felt confident that I was able to maneuver the streets of Honolulu, so off we went.

We started off on Waikiki Beach, where people stared and pointed. Yes, I wanted to tell them, it is CajunMama in the flesh, don’t be intimidated. We were almost like street entertainers, performing a ballet of environmentally friendly, gas free transportation, and I was the star.

Michael took Jeanne and I through bustling Chinatown, where I felt sure I was going to take out a pedestrian, but I did well, even when a store curtain blew into my face blocking my vision of the sidewalk baskets of fruit. Thanks to my pre-tour training, I was confident enough to maneuver around three baskets of bok choy and two elderly Asian ladies with canes. Whew! Crisis averted.

We stopped for a breather at Iolani Palace and glided by the King Kamehameha statue. Our return trip provided an open area for me to glide open wide. In fact, I think I’m ready for the Segway races now. I was glad I took the time for this environmentally friendly tour of Honolulu. The price of $130 for a historic, cultural and fun three-hour tour is worth it.

Now I can say, “This is how I roll.”

Family Travel: A Great Child-friendly Luxury Resort in Maui

Let’s face it, there are a lot of hotels in the Westin family (owned by Starwood). We’ve been to some that are just fine; nothing wrong but nothing to write home about. And now, we’ve experienced the Westin Maui Resort & Spa, in Hawaii. This is, truly, an outstanding hotel, and great for family travel. The Traveling Mamas recommend it!

Located in the resort area of Kaanapali on West Maui, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is impeccably designed. The recent renovation resulted in calm, open spaces with simple lines and a lack of clutter in the hallways. The previous owner (over 20 years ago) left behind may genuine Asian antiques, which we found throughout the resort property. At first, the idea of real relics simply exhibited made me feel a little nervous – after all, this is a completely family-friendly hotel with lots of young kids running around - but the antiques appear to be in no danger of Destruction by Wayward Child.

Those kids running around are kept plenty busy, you see; the water slides, 4 family pools (and a 5th for adults only), an activity filled day camp…even daily feeding of koi, those big red carp, every morning at 9:30AM.

The Westin Maui has a Director of Fun, which just might win the award for Best Job Title Ever. If you’re planning a Hawaii family vacation at the Maui Westin Resort & Spa, the Director of Fun will help plan out all the child friendly activities you’d want to keep your children happy on the trip (as if “happy” and “Hawaii” don’t go together so perfectly anyway). Children will love starting the day feeding the koi, and ending it by making Hawaiian s’mores on the beach (these have pretty much the same ingredients as regular s’mores, plus fresh Hawaii pineapple). And for us old marrieds, the Director of Romance can help rekindle those honeymoon feelings. Fun and Romance: It’s what a vacation at the Maui Westin Resort & Spa is all about.

Father’s Day Contest Giveaway: Lush DAD Gift Box

Father’s Day is coming, and I still haven’t recovered from Mother’s Day. What’s that? Breakfast in bed? Oh, thank you, my sweet children – ugh, that’s orange juice on my sheets now, isn’t it? - you really are so thoughtful. Father’s Day is usually completely different; while the moms are typically given time away on OUR day, dads are expected to spend some real Quality Time with their kids. Sure, it’s archaic – a vestige of the days when most moms stayed home and most dads hardly saw their growing children – but traditions are traditions (dads still generally don’t take the weekend off with their buddies on Father’s Day). This year, add a little adult twist to that tradition with a Lush Gift Box for men. Lush is that handmade, organic bath and body products company we’re constantly raving about.

Those kind folks at Lush are supplying the Traveling Mamas Father’s Day Contest Giveaway with a DAD gift box. This box itself is brightly colored and fun to receive. Inside, you’ll find an Ice Blue soap, New! solid shampoo bar, and Happy Hippy shower gel. Ice Blue soap smells like peppermint and really is a nice blue color; I like the sea salt for its scrubby action too. The New! Solid shampoo is great for travel (no getting bothered by those TSA guys at the airport security line) and is made with organic peppermint and cinnamon, smelling mostly like cinnamon. It stimulates the scalp during shampoos. Last, the Happy Hippy shower gel is a strongly citrus-scented gel that can sub as a shampoo.

As if Lush isn’t happy enough to share their products for Father’s Day, they kindly threw in my favorite melty massage bar too. The Wiccy Magic Muscles massage bar heats to the touch (or the backrub) with cinnamon leaf oil, and aduki beans add pressure to the massage. I love the Wiccy Magic Muscles massage bar. A massage with this Lush bar would be the perfect way to end Father’s Day.

To enter to win this great Father’s Day gift box from Lush, simply leave a comment describing your ideal Father’s Day. The Father’s Day gift box giveaway is only open to US residents. Sorry, MudslideDad, you and other relatives of the Traveling Mamas may not enter this contest! For the rest of you, leave your comments below; the contest remains open until 11:59 PM Tuesday, June 3rd. And guess what? June 4th, the Winning Wednesday on which the contest winner will be announced, is my father’s birthday! Happy birthday, Dad. Hope Mom treats you to a massage.

Star in a Travel Reality Show!

Travel and reality TV — two of my faves!

If you’d like to go on a multi-generational trip, while being filmed for an online reality show, then click right over to Grandparents.com to enter this fun contest.

The winner and his or her family will spend August 27 to September 3 cruising from Alaska to Vancouver, B.C., aboard a Regent Seven Seas cruise. Along the way, a film crew will capture their experiences for the debut of “Grandest Adventures,” a new online reality program from Grandparents.com.

To be eligible, at least one grandparent and grandchild needs to make the voyage. You need to answer some questions about your family, upload a photo or optional video, and voila, you’re entered. Deadline for entry is June 30, 2008.

While you’re on the site, check out some of the travel articles written by yours truly. My most recent favorites are my pieces about the Great Wolf Lodge and family-friendly spas. DesertMama has a story about Arizona going live on Grandparents.com soon, too.

Good luck!

Travel Warning for Popular Mexico Vacation Destination

Is the travel situation getting worse in Mexico, or is it just that the media is picking up more stories about the drug cartels, gangs, and other generally illegal acts in our neighbor to the south? TravelingMamas posted earlier about the US State Department’s travel advisory against taking vacations in certain parts of Mexico. At that point, two suggestions was to stay in an all-inclusive resort, or to travel to the most popular tourist destinations, like Cancun and the Mayan Riviera. But a Canadian tourist was recently shot inside his hotel room in Cabo San Lucas (Calgary Herald) and the increase in criminal activity in Tijuana is well-known.

On the Gulf side (the Yucatan), Cancun and the Riviera Maya are gorgeous tourist destinations, with white sandy beaches and archaeological marvels that would make Indiana Jones drop his hat. The Riviera Maya starts at Playa del Carmen and ends in Tulum. Certainly worth considering for a family vacation, right? Consider this: The “hotel zone’ of small charming hotels and restaurants in Tulum is experiencing a scene right out of the Wild West.

One of those charming Tulum restaurants, owned by an Australian-born US citizen, was literally invaded last week by a group of men working for a corrupt local politician. John Kendall, who bought the land six years ago, already has a certified local presence in the Mayan Riviera; his acclaimed Mezzanine hotel overlooks the sea in along the same historic stretch of Mexico. The Mexican politician, Gaston Alegre, has called Kendall the “Devil of Tulum” and sent police (and 30 private security guards) into Kendall’s beachfront restaurant to take the property by brute force. The restaurant, El Pez, was filled with tourists and customers; they were kicked out, and the restaurant was completely trashed. When Kendall attempted to take back his property, corrupt police from nearby Playa del Carmen fought him off. Kendall has said, “Gaston Alegre still thinks he’s in 1930’s Mexico.” Kendall will get his day in court, of course, but clearly corruption runs deep in many travel destinations here. This illegal land grab illuminates the need for stronger anti-corruption laws in Mexico (or at least that the ones on the books be upheld).

Criminal activity in Mexico has not just increased in recent months, but also has begun to spread into popular tourist destinations. Pack more than just your bathing suit and sunblock for a vacation south of the border; take some extra precautions as well. Watching Indiana Jones on the big screen is one thing. Finding ourselves in the middle of frightening battles in real life, quite another.

Interview and Book Giveaway: Angela K. Nickerson

A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome offers a fascinating exploration of Roman culture, art, and politics, as well as a visual feast of Renaissance art and contemporary photographs. Street maps allow the reader to navigate through the city and discover Rome as Michelangelo knew it and as it exists today.

Angela K. Nickerson is based in Sacramento, California; she regularly leads tours to Rome and other cities in Europe. She graciously allowed Traveling Mamas to interview her about Italy and her gorgeous new book. Read through to find out how to win a copy.

TM: What inspired you to write A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome?

AN: I came to this project by luck, chance, divine intervention, and happenstance. I used to teach literature, and I developed a course called “The Bible as Literature.” To hook my students I used Michelangelo’s work as illustrations for the Biblical stories we studied. His frescoes on the Sistine Chapel ceiling and his sculptures of Moses and David all made wonderful illustrations as we encountered those tales. My students truly understood and thoughtfully considered the stories as well as the artist’s interpretations.

I’d been out of the classroom and writing professionally for a few years when Roaring Forties Press put out a call for proposals, but I knew that this was meant to be. A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome is truly a fusion of my great passions: writing, travel, and art.

TM: How long did you have to research all the information?

AN: Because I’d done so much research as a teacher, I did not have to start from scratch. However, I spent months immersed in the 16th century reading everything I could find. I was very fortunate, too. Dr. William Wallace, one of the world’s leading experts on Michelangelo, was a tremendous help and led me to a few resources I might never have found on my own. I also know a few librarians who helped me track down some obscure documents.

But the most fun part of the research happened in Italy. Casa Buonarroti in Florence holds the largest collection of Michelangelo’s papers and sketches. It is a remarkable place to visit. And in Rome I developed friendships with several people who work for museums and Rome’s archaeological agencies. They were a great help in collecting information as well.

TM: Which chapter is your favorite?

AN: That’s a tough question. Each chapter is a story from Michelangelo’s life and focuses on the creation of one of his great works. If I had to choose, though, I would say that San Pietro in Vincoli: The Tragedy of the Tomb (chapter 4) might be my favorite.

In 1505 Michelangelo was commissioned to create a tomb for the newly-elected pope, Julius II. Julius II had grand ideas for his own memorial, and Michelangelo saw an opportunity for a lifetime of steady work. But it was not to be. Julius II’s priorities changed, and money was short. He redirected Michelangelo’s energies producing one of the world’s greatest masterpieces: the Sistine Chapel. And after Julius II’s death, his heirs scaled the project back further and further until the final installation (completed in 1545) was just a shadow of Michelangelo’s original vision. The story is sad and complicated and rich, but the pieces of art that were intended for Julius II’s tomb – Moses, Leah, Rachel, and the Captives – are fascinating.

TM: Do you feel these places would be appropriate for families? If not, why?

AN: Absolutely! Michelangelo’s work is very accessible for children. The stories are dramatic and intriguing, and his depictions are full of movement and life. Italian churches and museums are quite family-friendly, too. European schools often take field trips to museums, and they are used to accommodating younger patrons.

The key to traveling as a family in Italy is preparation, and having a theme for a trip can make it more interesting for everyone. Of course, I am partial to Michelangelo, but many children and teens recognize his works when they see them. Knowing that, prepare them a bit for your trip. There are several children’s books out on Michelangelo that can be great places to start. And once you are there, edit the choices you make. No one can go to every museum in Rome, so choose the ones that fit your theme.

The Vatican Museums, for example, can be overwhelming. There are thousands of pieces of art on display, and it can be over-stimulating for children and adults alike. However, hitting the highlights of the museum – including Laocoön, the Raphael Stanze, and the Sistine Chapel — rather than trying to look at every piece can make the experience much more enjoyable.

The families who have the most fun on trips to Rome have done a little work before leaving, preparing together for what they will see. And cater to your child’s interests. If your 6th grader is studying Ancient Rome, don’t miss the Forum and perhaps a trip out to Ostia Antica would be fun. Do you have a budding artist? Take along a sketchbook and make some time to sit and sketch together in the Colosseum or in front of the Pieta. Those impromptu art pieces make priceless souvenirs. Perhaps your 10th grader has been studying the Middle Ages in World History. Then don’t miss the museum at Castel Sant’Angelo. It has great examples of swords and armor and the building was the site of many battles and sieges.

Successful European travel with families is about pacing and preparation. But I see lots of families have a great time together in Rome!

TM: Will you be writing other books similar to this one?

AN: Yes. I am still not sure what my next project will be, but this was truly the best project I’ve ever worked on. It was incredibly fulfilling. I truly expect that my next project will somehow combine three things: art, history, and Italy.

Thanks to Angela for taking the time to answer our questions. If you would like to win a copy of A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome then leave a comment or question and you will be entered into our giveaway. Same rules apply, as always. Contest ends May 20 at midnight and winner will be announced on Winning Wednesday, May 21.

Top 5 Gulf Coast Beaches

As aired on May 18, 2008 in Baton Rouge, LA on The Around Town Show.

Summer in the US is the time where most families head to the beach. These are my picks for the 2008 beach season. This list is based on personal experience, family friendly offerings, sand quality, and overall good times. Feel free to comment on the destinations included or add your own picks for Gulf Coast beach destinations.

5. Galveston Island, TX

Galveston is on the list because it is home to Moody Gardens and a new Schlitterbahn Waterpark. The boardwalk along the beach is a great place for families who like walking along the beach without getting all the sand in your shoes. Also, there is a lot of pirate history, with Galveston Island being home to Campeche, a settlement once inhabited by Jean Laffite and his crew.

4. Gulf Shores, AL and Orange Beach

These two are really separate, but when many people around where I live say they are going to Gulf Shores, they could be going to Orange Beach instead. The two are side by side and offer shopping for Mamas at nearby Foley, an abundance of golf courses for the dads, and so many family friendly activities. The beaches are really nice and clean with many restaurants overlooking the Gulf. I spend time there one summer with my family when the kids were very small. We were able to find an affordable 2 bedroom condo on the beach through Brett Robinson Rentals. Be careful though, as the Gulf Shores area has become a bit pricey.

3. Panama City Beach, FL

I know what you are thinking, isn’t this a Spring Break destination? Yes, it used to be and I almost fondly remember a high school trip there where we stayed at The Chateau. You remember that old place don’t you? We used to call it the S—hole. Anyways, I returned one summer with family in tow. It has definitely changed to a family friendly destination. Beware of the evening traffic along The Strip. It is perfect if you are a family with teenagers, as many activities include parasailing and those bungie drop things. If you have younger children, there are plenty of go-cart tracks and waterslides.

2. Destin, FL

Destin and the northwest coast of Florida offer some of the most gorgeous beaches I’ve ever seen. This place has the shopping, the golf, the activities, and even the spas. One thing that sets it above other beaches is the relaxation factor. Be sure though that when you book your lodging, make sure it is ON the beach, not near the beach. Many condos here are located across the highway from the beach. This isn’t the best when you have little ones. Destin does offer some fantastic seafood. I remember many childhood summers at the buffet! The sand here is so fine, it actually barks when you walk.

1. The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is one of those places in the US that makes you feel as if you are on a tropical island somewhere. The Keys offers a variety of atmospheres, from Key West, which is a beach version of The French Quarter, to Islamorada, which is laid back and slow. If you don’t have the money to actually stay at the legendary Little Palm Island, you can still visit this hideaway for lunch. The same goes for Sunset Key. There are so many Keys to choose from with a variety of activities for families of all backgrounds.

Families can swim with the dolphins, visit a butterfly museum, learn about pirates at an interactive attraction, and see how turtles are taken care of at The Turtle Hospital. Families can’t go wrong when visiting The Keys.

So these are my picks for this year. Remember that a vacation is a time for travel, relationship renewal, and most importantly, fun. Be spontaneous and make the most of your time together this summer.

Top 10 Summer Adventure Travel Destinations

This happens every summer: I get a new pair of cute sandals that fit nicely in the store, and then the first day out – bam! Sore feet and blisters. This may sound familiar to fellow fans of soft adventure travel. Non-stressful hiking, plus walking tours, pretty much make up the kind of summer vacation (non-aquatic) exercise I get. That’s why, for me, the who-knows-what-technology-based stuff that goes into Gore-Tex fabric, makes their shoes a real plus. The Gore-Tex fabric is waterproof and wicks away heat, and feels kind of squishy in the sole (but it’s not a gel-based insert, so the TSA won’t make you surrender you shoes on the airport security line). My Ecco and Clark’s shoes have the Gore-Tex insignia, and Merrell, New Balance, and Timberland brands also use the special patented fabric. The company joined with the Adventure Travel Trade Association to suggest a Top 10 list of Summer Adventure Travel Vacation Destinations.

Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations, via Gore-Tex and the Adventure Travel Trade Association

• Australia - From the walkabouts to the rain forests of Queensland to the Great Barrier Reef, there’s adventure travel of almost all sorts here. If shopping is more your summer vacation speed, spend that cash in Sydney and Melbourne.
• Brazil - The jungles here are disappearing at a rapid clip; tourist dollars may show the government a viable alternate use of this great resource. And the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana are fantastic!
• British Columbia - start at my favorite airport hotel, and have fun in Vancouver, Victoria, and Granville Island for your summer vacation. Migratory marine mammals like whales spend their summers here too; they have the right idea!
• California - Even Los Angeles, with its sad reputation as a faceless city of strip malls, has some challenging hiking trails. I’d also suggest a drive north to Santa Barbara, my favorite spot along the Central Coast. There are also Napa Valley and other less famous “wine countries.”
• France - Can’t beat Paris as a cultural, historic walking city, but you might wear out your shoes trying to see it all. Then there’s Provence, Versailles, biking in the Pyrenees (bordering Spain), and the forests of Fontainebleau. Adventure travel and luxury vacations both fit together perfectly in France!
• Madagascar - The Malagasy, native to Madagasacar, could really use some tourism dollars. The forests of this unique island are disappearing at a pretty rapid clip, and ecotourism may help stem the loss. The lemurs, chameleons, and other interesting critters are endemic to Madagascar, and need their habitat to continue starring in all those nature specials.
• Nepal - Kathmandu is the star here, of course, though getting to Nepal is an adventure in itself. Nepal would be the right fit for someone seeking a special, unique cultural trip; if that’s you, visit Boudhanath Stupa, home to Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
• New York - New York City is hot, humid, and gross in the summer – I lived through too many summers there to be in denial. But the Hudson Valley, Niagara Falls, and Adirondacks region are all lovely.
• Norway - This one was included on the Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations list, presumably because it’s too dark and cold to vacation there in the winter. The gorgeous waterfalls and fjords can be toured via walking tours, or hiked and splashed in by more intrepid vacationers.
• Switzerland - An outdoor adventure vacation would feature a hike up the Alps, and possibly hang-gliding back down. Leisure travelers can explore Basel, Geneva, and Zurich.

These disparate vacation destinations were chosen by the quality of both adventure and leisure travel options. Factors considered include uniqueness and authenticity, adventure activity resources (bicycling, hiking, etc), need for sustainable tourism, and undiscovered or little known natural and cultural assets. I think this list represents a nice blend of very popular summer travel spots, and some that are less so.

And me? Well, I have 2 weeks of vacation travel in New York planned for this summer, one of which is in the humid stickiness of NYC. In August! Wish me luck.

Top Recommended Mancation Vacation Travel Gifts

Oh, sure, CajunMama’s husband won’t acknowledge the term, but “mancations” are really picking up some traction in the travel industry. Now, most men that I know would rather not vacation at all, than spend their vacation days in a luxury spa, getting their nails buffed. But a lot of men are figuring out that time with their friends is time well spent, indeed. This is why mancations have become increasingly popular.

Mancations, or getaways for men only, can range from low rent (10 college buddies crammed in a Vegas hotel room) to ultra high end (father-son trip to Gleneagles Hotel Golf Resort in Scotland) – with a lot of room in between. Personally, I like the idea of mancations. Dudes hanging our together, doing their dude thing (I don’t want to know too much here), getting smelly, scratching…No women allowed? That’s okay! No, really.

Top Recommended Mancation Vacation Travel Gifts, for Father’s Day and Beyond

There are some great mancation gift ideas out there. If you want to treat the guy in your life with a mancation travel gift, it helps if you can arrange time off work for his closest friends as well. Cabo San Lucas has some fishing vacation packages, and the Waterfall Resort in Ketchican, Alaska provides everything guys need for an authentic Alaska fishing vacation. From what I’ve heard, these mancations sound like really fun outdoorsman trips.

Another special gift that a lot of men would really appreciate is a real NASCAR Richard Petty riding experience. NASCAR fans can travel to one of 25 major American cities including, of course, Daytona. There, guys on mancations can opt to ride shotgun in a stock car – or even drive the NASCAR top series top car themselves! Imagine that: Up to 140 miles per hour, no cops ticketing the dude, and a memory to last a lifetime.

For golfers, mancation-type travel packages abound. One top new contender I like is offered by the Half Moon Resort in Jamaica. Just in time for Father’s Day (but good through the rest of the year), the Guys on the Green golf vacation package is a seriously luxurious mancation, for a seriously lucky guy. The travel package includes 5-star dining, drinks, two rounds of golf at Half Moon’s award winning golf course, and an “Up to Par” massage. Oh, and guests are greeted with an ice-cold beer upon arrival. Golf, manly massage, beer…Talk about a mancation.

These are the Traveling Mamas’ current top recommended mancations for Father’s Day (or any time). But lists are meant to be expanded: Any other favorites out there?

Don’t Lose Your Stuff! Top 10 Tips for Safe Travel

Sometimes, travel writers take press trips. Also called familiarity trips, these involve a few professional travel journalists being ushered around a particular vacation destination by PR folks in the local community’s travel and tourism business. I, MudslideMama, have been in the midst of a southern California beach town press trip, and just learned a valuable lesson regarding keeping one’s guard up. I carelessly left my PDA in a hotel lobby, and someone walked off with it. Travel tip: Don’t leave your personal digital assistant laying around in hotels. Yes, I know, this is a lesson that should have been learned many years ago, but hey – I’ve been burned, so lesson learned!

Top 10 Vacation Loss and Theft Prevention Tips

1. Keep an eye on your stuff. It sounds simple, but the sights and stresses of travel can distract even the most inveterate travelers. For example, I had taken some things out of my purse when I was looking for my sunblock, which it turns out I had left in my room. Apparently, I left my Blackberry on the table in the lobby. When I got back downstairs, it was gone. Someone STOLE my new Blackberry – and all my contact info, photos, and favorite ringtones that were on it.

2. If someone does steal your PDA, or if it’s just plain lost, cancel your service with your service provider. While you may be able to get the police to trace any outgoing calls on it, you’ll be held responsible for any charges anyway. Even if you have unlimited calls, the thief could be downloading songs and videos and whatnot, incurring huge fees.

3. Leave your most valuable jewelry and prized possessions at home. If you must take objects of considerable worth or sentimental value, pack them in your carry-on bag instead of the luggage to be stowed. Luggage gets lost or rifled through more often than you’d think.

4. Put a TSA-approved lock on your checked luggage. These ensure that the TSA won’t have to cut open your lock if someone decides your suitcase needs a closer look. In fact, carry-on is safest, and you don’t have to wait at the baggage carousel after arriving at your vacation destination. When feasible, try to stick with carry-on bags.

5. Prescription medications should be clearly labeled, and in their original containers. The security guy at the airport is still going to need to inspect it, of course, but this makes his or her job easier, which makes your time spent on the security line also easier.

6. Most hotels these days have a safe in the closet. This is where to store your passport, credit cards, cash, and any jewelry you decided to bring on your vacation. It’s the most secure place in the room.

7. Don’t travel to part of any country that is considered dangerous. While “considered dangerous” is open for interpretation, the US State Department issues travel alerts for particularly unsafe parts of the world. It’s a big world with plenty of terrific vacation spots; why ruin a romantic getaway or family vacation in a dangerous travel destination if you don’t have to?

8. Try to scatter your passport, credit cards, cash and I.D. throughout different pockets while out and about, rather than putting them all in your wallet or purse. Use inside pockets if you have them.

9. Be aware of who’s around you. Pickpockets and thieves often have plans, such as working in teams to nudge or distract you. Most people are essentially good, I think, but it only takes a couple of people – sometimes little kids – to lift your wallet, steal your purse, or otherwise ruin a vacation experience.

10. Your personal property or home insurance may cover theft or loss. Check your policy before you go, but it goes without saying that, even if your covered, still keep an eye on your stuff. And me? I wasn’t covered for the loss of my Blackberry. This was my stupid mistake – remember, don’t leave personal items unattended outside your room, even in 4- and 5-star hotels.

Vacations, be they family trips, weekend getaways, or that luxury UK experience you’ve been saving up for, are meant to be enjoyed. Don’t lose your stuff! Please, employ these Top 10 safe travel tips, but don’t get so tense about potential crime that you can’t a great time. You can be smart and still relax for a fun, safe vacation.

Mexico Travel Warning

The Traveling Mamas really enjoy vacations in Mexico; I know that for me, the Yucatan Peninsula is just heaven. I loved seeing the Mayan ruins like Tulum and Chichen Itza near Cancun. Cancun has many child-friendly all-inclusive resorts with resort day camps for kids – in case the little ones aren’t up for a day trip to see those pyramids. MountainMama loved her travels in the Riviera Maya, too. But Mexico’s a big, diverse country, and not all of it is so trip-worthy.

The US State Department has just put out an extended travel alert for Mexico. Specifically, border areas in the country are considered too dangerous to visit, what with scary increases in gang violence and drug trafficking. These Mexican border states include Chihuahua City, Juarez, and Tijuana. According to the State Department, dozens of US citizens were actually kidnapped or murdered in Tijuana last year. Yikes.

And wait, there’s more: The New York Times reports (April 29, 2008 ) that besides the enormous threat of kidnappings that are practically a business model in Mexico City, FAKE kidnapping rates are skyrocketing too. These so-called “virtual kidnappings” sound horrifying; one US citizen living in Mexico received a call from a young women purporting to be her daughter, and other parents get calls with the sounds of little children crying out for them (these are not their kids, in fact, but just imagine the panic). There’s no sign that US tourists are being targeted in and of themselves, but with very few arrests so far, the problem will only continue.

Fancy luxury resort hotels in and around popular tourist destinations have heightened security, of course, and there’s almost no chance of gang members barging into the Ritz-Carton in Cancun. On the flip side, staying in an all-inclusive and not venturing outside of the hotel property doesn’t give travelers any real sense of the culture and history of the host country – you could be anywhere balmy if you don’t leave the resort grounds.

This is a tough issue. The travel and tourism industry definitely helps boost local and state economies of otherwise poor countries, and the experience of a family vacation somewhere outside of our own neighborhood (and mental safety zone) is mind-expanding. However, as with practically any family, us mamas’ and papas’ priorities are the health and safety of our children. Without travel package deals, the cost of many inclusive resorts is out of reach for a lot of us, too. Is the answer to simply take our family vacations in the safest parts of the world? Or is the answer to travel to faraway lands, but refuse to venture out of the safety of hotel grounds? What do you think?

Richard Petty Driving Experience at Daytona International Speedway

In addition to skydiving and jetboat riding during my research trip to Daytona Beach, Florida, last week, I also got to ride along in a race car at 160 mph around the Daytona International Speedway. How cool is that?!

I’m not a race fan at all. (Unlike my travel-writing buddy Karon, pictured with me at right, who knows all sorts of encylopedic facts about racing and the sport’s major players!) Plus, I drive like a grandma (sorry Mom!). But I did get thrill from strapping in to a NASCAR-style stock car for three laps around the track, which features turns that bank at 31 degrees. (Though, honestly, after my absolutely incredible tandem-sky-diving experience, it was a little bit anti-climactic.)

I felt totally safe throughout the entire three-minute ride. Just a bit claustrophobic when I got buckled in, with this huge helmet on my head, plus a supportive head/neck brace attached to me and the back of my seat. I could barely move my head side to side (which I guess was a good thing). My heart only sped up a couple beats when the woman who helped get me situated told me to “pull the red straps in case of an emergency.”

I think if I were a true race fan, and I enjoyed driving fast, I’d pay the $399 to the Richard Petty Driving Experience to actually learn how to drive one of the cars a few times around the track. It’s a program that lasts 3 hours and includes training and eight laps around the track. For the ultimate racing experience, you can dish out $2,999 for personal instruction and a 40-lap driving program.

Or, if you’re more like me, you can always visit the simulated track at the Daytona 500 Experience’s Acceleration Alley. For $5, strap into a mock race car and compete against others on a video screen in front of you. If you wreck, you’ll feel it!

Amuse-bouche

I grew up in a typical southern home, where most meals were the stick-to-your ribs comfort food, but every once in a while my mother would break out a cook book and try to make some exotic dish.

I liken my mother to Martha Stewart without the scandal. Yes, she’s crafty and into made from scratch meals, but there are some things my mama just couldn’t teach me: travel cuisine terms.

No, I didn’t grow up in a plantation home. Before marriage, my fine dining experiences were limited to Prom and a first date here and there. I wasn’t ever given etiquette lessons, although my English heritage tries to show itself. My freelance writing has allowed me to experience things that are out of the norm for where I live. As CajunMama, I will pass along little nuggets of info I’ve learned along the way, so that you other Mamas out there can impress your friends with your knowledge. You’ll never feel like Julia Roberts from that dining scene in Pretty Woman, ever again.

See the title up there….Amuse-bouche? Maybe you’ve heard the term, maybe not. Let’s pick it apart. Bouche means mouth. I knew that already from Frere Jaques and high-school French. Amuse? Helloooooo. So you can put those together and figure out something is going to entertain your mouth.

An amuse-bouche is a sample of what a chef can prepare. It isn’t an appetizer, which is something you’d order off the menu. It comes in one or two bites and everyone at the table gets the same thing. It is a little taste to get your tongue ready for the delights the chef has to offer, and the chef is usually creative and goes all out for these. The best part: they’re free!