There are many tours offered where you can get up close and personal with these beauties and even explore their jungles and caves–all worth doing. There is also no shortage of gorgeous, white sand beaches to explore throughout the archipelago.  And best of all, these natural surroundings aren’t overrun with resorts and tourists. But if you want to see Langkawi, go now–before everyone knows about it.

Here are my top 4 recommendations of what to do when you get there, plus 1 great place to eat and 1 great place we recommend staying on your family vacation in Langkawi.

Activity 1: Soar to the Top of the Island on the Langkawi Skycab

A ride on the Langkawi Skycab is a must when visiting Langkawi, Malaysia, with kids.

The Langkawi Skycab is the longest free span for a single rope cable car, which is about 950 meters long, and it has 2 viewing areas. The highest is at 650 meters above sea level.  Be prepared for some incredible views.

To get to the top, you’ll actually take two cable cars. The trip up to the top takes approximately 25 minutes. Once you’re at the top, the views are gorgeous. Hopefully it will be a clear day for you so that you can see the surrounding areas and get some good videos/pictures.

From the second viewing area, you may also walk along a trail out to the Sky Bridge, which connects the tops of two of the mountains. It takes approximately 20 minutes to venture out to the bridge, but you are in for a treat. It is amazing how the bridge was engineered, and they have several Plexiglas panels where you can stand and see the trees/land far below. It’s kind of spooky, but the bridge also provides great views.

Activity 2: Float through the Kilim Geoforest Park

Soaring eagles and secluded bat caves await in Kilim Geoforest Park.

Kilim Geoforest Park makes for an excellent day tour for adults and kids alike, which will allow you to see beautiful animals and scenery. If you’ve never seen mangrove forests, you’re in for a treat as they grow in spooky formations, and actually help protect against erosion. You will meander the Kilim Geoforest Park in a small boat and have a few places to stop off and stretch your legs as well.

You’ll see monkeys, crabs, and all manner of other critters along the way. The stop at the bat caves is pretty spectacular (not to fear the dark!) as you walk through one end and out the other. You need to be very quiet as you walk through, but when you look up with your flashlight, you will discover you aren’t the only ones in the cave. The bats are pretty amazing, and there are some nice stalactites and stalagmites that are formed within the limestone caves.

You will also see many floating restaurants throughout the day, and it is worth a stop over to have a drink. You may even request to stop at the “Hole in the Wall” floating restaurant, where they have a fish feeding session for you to watch.

Tip: Request to see the Eagle feeding. Your boat will stop along the waterway and give you a moment to enjoy the peace around you. There will likely be eagles soaring above and there are also set times when they feed the eagles. You want to be sure you are part of that experience, so request in advance so they can time it accordingly. This will provide ample opportunity for animal photographers to grab that perfect pic.

Activity 3:   Swim Above The Colorful Sea Life with Langkawi Coral Island

Ferry out to the Palau Payar Marine park for an unforgettable day trip in Langkawi with kids.

Enjoy a great snorkeling experience with Langkawi Coral Island.  Spend the day out at the Pulau Payar (Payar Island) Marine Park and the day is yours to explore.  Not to worry, everything is arranged for you. Just make your way to the pier and the rest of the day you will be guided. It’s about a 1-hour ferry ride out to the island and you will have about 4 hours to snorkel and eat the box lunches provided.  If you are a scuba diver, you can upgrade to have 1 or 2 dives.

When snorkeling, watch closely for interesting sea creatures and you won’t be disappointed. With a focused eye, you will see several nudibranchs, grouper, black tip reef sharks, angel fish, parrot fish, puffer fish, and all kinds of coral. The kids will be amazed to see all of the life under the water here.

If you would prefer not to see what is in the water, it is okay to just hang out at the beach and swim. After lunch, the crew gathers the left over scraps and they are thrown off the end of the pier.  This is shark and fish feeding time!  An amazing experience to watch with the kids!

Activity 4:   Sail Away On a Sunset Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a 2-hour tour with sunset and dinner included–and be sure to bring the camera!

A sunset dinner cruise is great for a very peaceful and relaxing evening out. This is about a 2-hour tour of the surrounding islands. You will learn quite a bit about some local culture and the myths of the pregnant maiden.  One of the islands appears to be the shape of a pregnant woman lying on her back. On this island there is a lake believed by some to help with fertility if you swim or drink the waters. The dinner is usually a boxed type meal, so nothing too fancy for the kids.

Of course the name gives it all away; you are also in for a spectacular sunset too. The boat will stop out at the tip of the bay and allow you time to soak in all of the colors Mother Nature has in store for you. There is no doubt you will be in for a nice view. Take notice of the eagles flying above and around you as well. We would recommend booking with Naam Adventure.

Tip: Parents, this is the perfect opportunity to sneak in a little romance!  The older kids are safe to explore the boat and feel the wind at the bow. Waste no time heading to the back to enjoy a little wine and the gorgeous scenery.

1 Great Place to Stay: Meritus Pelengi Beach Resort & Spa  

The family-friendly Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi.

This is all about location and service! The Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa is located just 15-minutes from the airport and it is right on Chenang Beach. They have an open air lobby, where you will be greeted upon your arrival. Their check in process is very efficient and you can enjoy a complimentary drink while they get your keys.

For a family, this is really an ideal style of accommodation; the rooms are very spacious and have amazing terraces.  There is easy beach and pool access and the staff is very welcoming and helpful.  The kids will love the pools as well as the splash zone.

The resort is within walking distance to town and just a 5 minute walk away from the public section of Chenang Beach. There you’ll find many water sports activities available, as well as shopping, and international dining options.

1 Great Place to Eat in Langkawi with Kids:  Seashells

Eat in your own private palapa above the rice paddies at Seashells.

Seashells is located on Chenang Beach, just across from the Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa.  The food is a local Malay menu and it is absolutely delicious, but the ambiance is to die for. They have a unique setting where you will eat at your own private palapa, above the rice paddies. They have a raised sidewalk leading out to the palapas and it is as if you are floating. The kids will be very excited about this meal, no doubt.

Find out more: For more of our tips and recommendations for family travel to Langkawi, see our Ultimate Guide to Langkawi and 15 Things to Do in Langkawi with Kids.

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The post Langkawi with Kids – Malaysia Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

And don’t even get me started on all of the great neighborhoods to explore across the city, each with its own brilliant cafes, bakeries, small restaurants, and intriguing shops.

Yet if you’re like many traveling families I know, you’ll have to pack all your San Francisco fun into just a handful of days. So with that in mind, I’ve put together these strategic recommendations of  4 activities to prioritize, along with recommendations of 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat for those planning a first visit to San Francisco with kids (don’t miss the map at the end for planning). Here we go!

1. Get Your Bearings with a Cruise Around the Bay

For any first-timer’s trip to San Francisco, a 1-hour narrated Bay Cruise is a  great way to brush up on the city’s history while getting familiar with the landmarks you’ll continue to see throughout your stay. Not to mention, it’s just really fun to get out on the Bay!

This voyage takes you along the San Francisco waterfront, under the Golden Gate Bridge, and right up close and around Alcatraz Island. In most cases, you’d be crazy not to grab the best seats you can outside as quickly as you can (top deck offers the best views) and stand ready for amazing photo ops.

But in case anyone gets too cold or “winded” on deck, there is plenty of seating inside as well. Both the Red & White Fleet (departing from Pier 43 1/2) and the Blue & Gold Fleet (departing from Pier 39) offer similar 1-hour Bay Cruises several times throughout the day, each with kids under 5 riding free. Check their sites for the latest special offers, or take advantage of the Blue & Gold Fleet’s 1-hour cruise included with the San Francisco CityPass.

2. Go Below at Aquarium of the Bay

After seeing San Francisco Bay by boat, it’s the perfect time to get acquainted with who’s living in its waters and off its nearby shores–including the shriek-worthy seven-gill shark and the four other shark species found in the Bay!

You’ll also enjoy jellyfish, otters, and the opportunity to pet young bat rays and leopard sharks as they pass by–but it’s hard to top the 300 feet of glass tunnels with sharks, large rays, and other Bay Area marine life swimming on all sides as you pass through. The Aquarium of the Bay is located at Pier 39, and children under 3 years get in free.

Tips: You can purchase discounted admission online, including a special family rate for 2 adults + 2 kids. The Aquarium of the Bay is also included in the San Francisco CityPass.

However, if you plan to venture down to Monterey on your trip, you’ll be better off paying admission here at Aquarium of the Bay and using the San Francisco CityPass for its optional alternate, the Monterey Bay Aquarium (much more expensive), instead. Aquarium of the Bay and a 1-hour Blue & Gold Fleet cruise are also included in the WharfPass.  www.aquariumofthebay.org

3. Bring a Picnic (and Kite and Camera) to Baker Beach

Baker Beach is located on the Bay side with views of the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate Bridge–not a bad place to spend some hours soaking up the magic of San Francisco Bay. On one of our family’s visits, we were even entertained by a pod of porpoises passing by!

My advice is to get there early (on a week day if possible) because the parking fills up quickly on fair-weather weekends. Also, just a friendly warning that the farther north you walk on the beach the less some folks may be wearing. And as always in San Francisco…bring plenty of layers because you never know what the coastal weather might do next. Don’t forget your camera! www.parksconservancy.org/visit/park-sites/baker-beach.html

4. Explore from Canopy to Coral Reef in the Middle of Golden Gate Park

The Rainforest Living Dome

Your visit to the California Academy of Sciences, located in Golden Gate Park, will take you up through the layers of a four-story tropical rainforest living-learning dome replete with Blue Morphos and several other butterfly species flitting past–and perhaps even landing upon–you in the process (keep an eye out for frogs in the vines!).

The Steinheart Aquarium

But one of the favorite moments in any kid’s visit here is the glass elevator plunge from the rainforest canopy down through the flooded forest floor with its sofa-sized fish swimming past.

Upon exiting the elevator you enter into the Steinhart Aquarium  section of the Academy of Sciences, which includes a 212,000 Philippine coral reef tank–one of the deepest exhibits of living coral in the world.

The Planetarium, Natural History Museum, and…

Since a visit to the Academy of Sciences also includes the Morrison Planetarium (not recommended for kids under 7 years), a Natural History Museum, several other permanent exhibits and additional visiting exhibits by season…it’s a good place to plan to spend the better part of a day. At least.

Get your hands stamped at lunch time and step outside into one of the most picturesque parts of Golden Gate Park. You can bring food of your own for a picnic or pick up lunch from the Academy Cafe, or look for the hot dogs and brats cart found most days in this part of the park.

The Little One’s Play Area

If you’re visiting with kids under 5, you may also want to take a play break in the Early Explorer’s Cove, where they’ll find toys, books, and a kid-size replica of a 1905 research schooner. And before you go, be sure to visit the living rooftop! Did I mention the penguin feedings? Oh, there’s a lot to do here.

Tips: This place is not just popular with families but with adult travelers of all ages from all over the world. It can get very crowded and even reach max capacity on holidays. Try to get there early and go straight to the Osher Rainforest first; that’s where the wait to enter through the butterfly-proof air lock gets longer as the day progresses.

Also, the Cal Academy of Sciences is one of the more expensive attractions in San Francisco (kids 3 years and younger are free), so if you’re considering any of the other activities included with the CityPass (which also includes a 7-day transportation pass for cable cars, buses, and MUNI), it could be well worth purchasing the pass. www.calacademy.org

1 Great Place to Stay: The Suites at Fisherman’s Wharf

It’s not easy coming up with one place to recommend families stay when visiting San Francisco. Especially when I know many are about to get the sticker shock of a lifetime when pricing hotels in the city. But The Suites at Fisherman’s Wharf gives you definite bang for your buck. And with with 1- and 2-bedroom suites sleeping up to 6 people, definite room for your brood.

First off, you are right where you’ll want to be for much of your sightseeing, so you can hoof it. Or catch the cable car or bus lines right outside without wasting precious vacation time driving around and looking for (near impossible-to-find, and sometimes nearly vertical when you find it) parking.

In fact, if you’re flying in, you might even get by at this location without a rental car at all. Second, every suite has a complete kitchen, which will greatly simplify mornings and permit custom meals for picky eaters. Not to mention it will reduce your vacation costs by not having to eat out so many meals in San Francisco. And third? Well, have you seen the view from the rooftop terrace? Check their site for their latest special offers: www.extraholidays.com/san-francisco-california/suites-at-fishermans-wharf.aspx

1 Great Place to Eat: The Rainforest Cafe

With more restaurants per capita than any other city in the U.S. (and in a city that’s only 7 square miles!), you’ll never have to look too far to find food in San Francisco. Finding a restaurant that’s a good fit for kids can be a bit more challenging, however. Though Chinese restaurants and any restaurant that calls itself a “diner” are usual pretty safe bets.

In addition, San Francisco’s Rainforest Cafe at Fisherman’s Wharf has definite kid-friendly dining with built-in entertainment. And at time of writing, it’s the first place my kids ask if we can go when cousins visit from out of town.

Between the salt water aquariums found throughout,  animatronic jungle animals, and occasional thunderstorms, they can feast on their choices from the kids combo menu. Just don’t show up too hungry because there is often a wait. www.rainforestcafe.com

More tips for your San Francisco with Kids trip? You might also like:

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I chuckled for a moment, until I realized he was completely serious. There, in the northeastern corner of Alabama, in a vast cavern in the foothills of Appalachia, was a fossilized shark’s tooth—along with other evidence that our current ceiling was once an ocean floor.

It was just the first “dash of the unexpected” I’d encounter on my journey through Northeast Alabama, a region with pleasant surprises, views, and experiences at every turn, it seemed (and there were a lot of turns!).

If you have the chance to visit DeKalb County in Northeast Alabama with kids, here are the top 4 activities I suggest you squeeze in, along with my recommendations for 1 great place to eat and 1 great place to stay during your Alabama family vacation.

Activity 1: Explore Cathedral Caverns

A “reflecting pool” inside Cathedral Caverns.

If you thought the shark’s tooth was intriguing, consider this: Archaeologists have found evidence of humans using the vast cave entrance to Cathedral Caverns as many as 8,000 years ago. You might want to pause and let that soak in a moment before venturing on deeper into the caves because the rest of the 90-minute tour will be no less impressive.

Sprawling room after room awaits, each with its own otherworldly collection of stalagmites and stalactites and the occasional flowstone wall. Along the way, you’ll also see a frozen waterfall and one of the world’s biggest natural columns.

“Goliath,” as it’s called, extends up 45 feet, connecting the cavern floor to its ceiling, and it measures 243 feet around. Yes, you can bring your camera—and unlike many cave tours, this one allows tripods. The entire tour is 1.5 miles and is wheelchair accessible.   Cathedral Caverns   637 Cave Road, Woodville, AL   www.alapark.com/cathedral-caverns-state-park

Activity 2: Picnic and Play at DeSoto State Park

A tranquil pool in early fall, but the middle of a raging fall in winter and spring.

If you get bored in DeSoto State Park, it’s your own darn fault. This 3,502-acre park on Lookout Mountain offers kayak and canoe rentals on the west fork of the lovely Little River, 25 miles of hiking trails among wildflowers and waterfalls, around 12 miles of mountain biking trails, cycling, geocaching, rappelling, bouldering, and even golfing.

And it’s not just a summer haven. The park’s fireplace-equipped cabins draw snow-loving families in winter as well (and it just so happens to be near the United States’ southernmost ski resort). Tip: Check the website for family adventure packages (some age restrictions apply).  DeSoto State Park   7104 DeSoto Parkway NE, Fort Payne, AL   www.alapark.com/desoto-state-park

Activity 3: Get Enlightened By Tigers for Tomorrow

A tiger’s stripes are like its fingerprints–no other tiger’s are just the same.

“Chuffing” is the relaxed greeting among tigers that says, “I’m cool, I’m cool…no worries here,” and at Tiger’s for Tomorrow, you will hear a whole lot of chuffing among the 30+ resident tigers. But what’s more significant, and moving, than the goose-bumply greetings of the big cats are the storied journeys that led them here.

For example, when Tigers for Tomorrow got a call about an abused circus lion in Central America who needed a new home, the entire community rose to the challenge of raising the funds needed to safely transport him to the preserve—and to build a suitable home for him there. The local elementary school that helped raise $1200 for the cause proudly adopted “Kazuma” as their school mascot.

Like Kazuma, nearly all of the lions, tigers, bears, black leopards, mountain lions, and wolves you’ll see here have never lived in the wild and would never be able to. But even as a “last stop” preserve, the visit inspires hope rather than despair. In addition to providing the necessary and specialized care these magnificent creatures need for the rest of their lives (not an easy or inexpensive undertaking!), Tigers for Tomorrow provides environmental education—and invaluable awareness—for the local community and its visitors.

To get the most from your visit, I strongly recommend scheduling a private tour for your family. Hours vary by day and by season, so be sure to check online for the current schedule.   Tigers for Tomorrow  708 County Road 345, Attalla, AL   www.tigersfortomorrow.org

Activity 4: Blow an Ornament at Orbix Hot Glass

Want a cool souvenir to remember your trip to Alabama with kids? Choose your colors and blow your own glass ornament at Orbix Hot Glass.

Kids 5 years and older will love it because they don’t just get to see how breath can turn a molten blob into a glorious bowl or pitcher. At Orbix, they can have the rare chance to blow their own glass souvenir (yes, grownups can do it, too!).

On Saturdays throughout fall and early December, you can visit the “hot shop” between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., choose your colors, and learn to blow your own glass ornament (see website for details).

Orbix also offers workshops year round, such as a paperweight class and sculpt-your-own flower workshop (minimum age is 13 yrs for both). Check their site for additional hours and the latest schedule of events.

Tip: Bring along a picnic to enjoy afterward—the setting is lovely and visitors are welcome to linger.  Orbix Hot Glass   3869 County Rd 275, Ft. Payne, AL  https://orbixhotglass.com

1 Great Place to Stay in Northeast Alabama with Kids: Mentone Inn on Lookout Mountain

My “family room” at the Mentone Inn, a family-friendly Bed & Breakfast and fun option for those visiting Northeast Alabama with kids.

Usually “bed and breakfast” is synonymous with “no kids under 12,” but it’s just not so at this 1928 B&B perched on Lookout Mountain. The Mentone Inn not only offers two family bedrooms with two double beds and en suite bathrooms, but they’ll also happily provide an extra single bed ($10) or pack ‘n play (complimentary) if needed. In fact, just the week before my visit, a big family was situated in my same room with two pack ‘n plays for twin tots.

All Queen and Double rooms here also have their own private bathrooms, and many can accommodate an extra single bed or pack ‘n play. Early risers can grab a cup of coffee and a comfy chair right in the hallway upstairs or slip out to a rocking chair on the porch to read the daily news.

But late risers better be warned: the “southern comfort” buffet breakfast in the dining room is not to be missed (homemade apple turnovers, tomato pie, bacon and grits, and then some).   Mentone Inn   6139 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL   www.mentoneinn.com  

1 Great Place for Families to Eat: Carlile’s Restaurant in Scottsboro

My buffet lunch at Carlile’s. Round 1.

With a tomato pie that’s been declared one of the “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die,” you’d be silly not to stop at this third-generation family-owned restaurant, just 45 minutes east of Huntsville.

But when you find out they also smoke all of their own meats, whip up every sauce from scratch (including their Original BBQ Sauce from the family’s first restaurant in Birmingham), and hand-batter all things crispy, you’d be downright crazy not to stop and see if their motto holds true: “Food so good, you’ll thank the Lord for taste buds.”

Coming from the West Coast, gorging myself at Carlisle’s was indeed a near-religious experience! Kids will be equally glad they came when they land upon the homemade macaroni and cheese here (they can even order it by the “plateful” from the kids menu!) or get to pick and choose as they please from the plentiful buffet.   Carlile’s Restaurant   23730 John T Reid Parkway, Scottsboro, AL   www.carliles.net

If you’ll be traveling through this part of Alabama with kids, you might also want to check out The 411 on Huntsville with Kids and To the Moon: Visiting the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (and more features listed below).

Thanks so much to Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association and all of the good people at these great places for their generous hospitality and sharing their lovely corner of the state with me. For more help planning your family’s vacation in northeast Alabama, take advantage of the free resources and special offers on the official North Alabama website: http://www.northalabama.org.

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The post DeKalb County with Kids – Northeast Alabama Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

This slower paced city is surrounded by nature and plenty of educational opportunities for the kids. If you have the opportunity to visit Chiang Mai with kids, here are our top 4 recommended family friendly activities, accommodation with nature activities for the kids and our favorite place for you to eat while you are there.

Activity 1: Experience Elephant Nature Park

You can feed and even bathe with the elephants while visiting Chiang Mai with kids.

There are few words to describe how magical, educational, and special this place is.  If you don’t do anything else in Chiang Mai, you really need to visit Elephant Nature Park.  This is a full-day adventure and you will experience over 39 rescued elephants.  Your hearts will be touched forever.

The day begins with pick up at your accommodation in Chiang Mai in a mini bus.  You will venture about 75 minutes to the northeast of the city into the lush green mountains.  Along the way, you may pass some elephant camps providing rides for tourists, but that isn’t what Elephant Nature Park is about.  Here they rescue elephants from poor living conditions, being overworked or being mistreated.  Your day will be spent leaning how to care for elephants and then actually taking part.

You will feed each herd and experience the excitement of letting them take that fruit right from your hands with their trunk.  You will then feed another herd of elephants and even bathe them in the river.  They really enjoy eating and being bathed, so prepare to splash that water around and have a good time.

During your time, you will also learn about the history of the founder and the elephant trade in northern Thailand.  After feeding the elephants all morning, your tummy may be rumbling.  Not to worry as a full vegetarian buffet lunch is also included in your day.

Activity 2: Tantalize Your Senses at the Saturday Night Market & Silver Temple

Start your visit to Chiang Mai’s night market with a dusk view of the Silver Temple (Wat Sri Suphan).

As with most cities and towns in Thailand, you should experience the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the Saturday Night Market in Chiang Mai.  Of course the market itself is free, but I would have some cash handy and be prepared to negotiate for your goods.  If you want to try some new foods, this is the place to give it a go.  You will find many things to eat here that will stretch your comfort zone, but you will also find some comfort foods, even mini ice cream cones.

The Market starts on Bumruung Buri Road, near the south gate (Chiang Mai Gate) of the old city, and runs along Wua Lai Road.  They begin setting up about 4:30 or 5:00 pm and it will be buzzing until at least 10:00 pm.  I would recommend arriving just before dusk, so you can also see the colors of the beautifully lit silver temple (Wat Sri Suphan), which is located at the far southwest end of the market.

Activity 3:  Quench Your Curiosity with a Monk Chat

Ask away! Monks stand ready for your questions in Chiang Mai.

During your visit to Chiang Mai with kids, you will notice men in the orange-colored robes all around town. This will no doubt peak the curiosity of your kids.  Not to worry as many of the temples around offer a free Monk Chat for you.  A monk chat can last 5 minutes or a couple of hours.  It is a time when the monks are available for anyone to ask them anything.  The chat we attended was very informal and we could ask whatever we liked.

Don’t feel like you are asking too many questions, as you will find the Monks are also very curious about you.  The Monks participating are usually part of the university program and are attending these chats to improve their English and learn about others.  So don’t be surprised if they ask you about your life as well.

Monk Chat at Wat Suan Dok

• Free – Monday, Wednesday, Friday 5-7pm
• MCU Buddhist University Chiang Mai Campus, Suthep Road (opposite Chiang Mai Neurological Hospital)
• Tel: 053-278-967, ext. 210; 084-609-1357
• Website: http://www.monkchat.net/

Activity 4:   Take an Interactive Scorpion Tailed River Cruise

You can float in many a boat in Chiang Mai, but the Scorpion Tailed River Cruise provides a boatload of information as you travel.

If you are looking for a standard float along the river in a boat, you can select a day cruise from just about any tour agency in town.  If you are looking for something a little more memorable and educational, then the Scorpion Tailed River Cruise is the one for you.

Not only will you enjoy your tour along the Ping River, with an English-speaking guide, you will also experience the extra bonus of having a stop over at the owner’s property along the river.  Here he will serve you mango sticky rice and juice, but that’s not all.  You will also get a private tour and history lesson in his garden.  You will learn about the indigenous plants of Northern Thailand and their common uses, such as citronella.  This really is a great afternoon activity and the kids will be mesmerized.

How to book with Scorpion Tailed River Cruise:

• Website: Scorpion Tailed River Cruise Chiang Mai
• Landing at: Sri Khong Port,opposite Wat Sri Khong , 200 meters north of Nakorn Ping Bridge
• Contact: Booking Hotline +66 (08) 1960 9398

1 Great Place to Stay in Chiang Mai: Chai Lai Orchid

One hour from the city feels like a world away when you stay at the Chai Lai Orchid eco resort.

Nestled in the lush jungle, just 50 meters across a suspended bridge from the road, you will find an oasis like no other.  Only one hour out of Chiang Mai, you will find the affordable family friendly Eco Resort, Chia Lai Orchid.  But this is far more than just a resort, it is a place to enjoy nature.  The river babbles below your tree house like rooms and the elephant trek route runs right through the resort.

You can spend your day playing in the river by tubing, kayaking or taking a ride on the bamboo raft.   Both the staff and the accommodation are lovely.  There is one restaurant on site and all of the food is enjoyable, but we especially loved the cashew chicken and the Asian salad.  This is a nice break from the city and transportation is easily arranged through the hotel.

1 Great Place to Eat in Chiang Mai: Blessed Food

Simple, straightforward meals abound at Blessed Food restaurant in Chiang Mai.

Blessed Food is a very simple, clean and low cost place to eat in Chiang Mai.  There is nothing fancy about it, but you will love the food.  It is traditional Thai food at street food prices.  There are only 8 tables in the family-friendly restaurant, but they are almost always full.  Blessed Food is located off of Nimman Road, about one block down on Soi 6.  Try the cashew chicken; it is absolutely wonderful.

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As it turned out, ziplining over alligators was only part of the thrill awaiting us at Gators & Friends Alligator Park and Exotic Petting Zoo. The adventurers in my group quickly agreed that climbing the first multi-story spiral staircase as it gently rocked from the foot traffic was anything but dull. Our guides quickly clipped us each to a safety line as we reached the platform of our first departure, and there we waited in the order of our ascent, approaching the edge like soldiers waiting to exit an airplane mid-flight.

That’s when I remembered there’s a big difference between wanting to try something new and exciting and actually taking that first step–in this case, off of a metal mesh platform three stories up through which I see an alligator smiling.

There’s really only one thing a person can say when faced with a situation like this, and I hope you’ll pardon my French:

Laissez les bon temps roulez!*

Once I was off and flying above the alligator pond, whooping with the wind in my teeth as I grinned down at the reptiles below, I was hooked.

While there is no minimum age required for ziplining at Gators & Friends, zip-ees must weigh a minimum of 60 lbs. to go solo. Smaller children, and those who don’t want to go it alone, can zip tandem with either of the certified guides on staff (ask for my pals Luke and Kent).

Our guides could not have been kinder or funnier as they talked us each off of the ledge, sometimes when the opposite end of the zip line was  not even visible. In time, I gained confidence enough to try spinning in a complete circle (oh, yeah!).

Another confidence booster was that our harnesses were a class above those used at most zip line parks. Straps go over the shoulders as well as around the sitting zone, which not only helps you zipline hands-free without feeling like potential alligator bait, but also gives you the ability to zipline safely upside-down should the spirit move you. Just do be sure to empty your pockets and secure your car keys before trying it.

As I mention in The 411 on Shreveport with Kids, there is more to do at Gators & Friends than just the zip line adventure. So if there are other members of your family who would prefer to visit the capybara and feed the goats or ride a miniature horse while you and your tween tear up the zip line course, options abound. Admission to the petting zoo area is included with 7- and 10-line course purchases, so make sure you stop by to take your picture holding a baby alligator before you leave.

There are also alligator feedings to watch throughout the day, though if you plan to zipline, I suggest you wait to watch the feeding frenzy until after you’ve completed the course. There are more of them in there than you might think.

Practical tips for visiting Gators & Friends:

Plan – Gators & Friends is open daily through summer and Wednesdays through Sundays the rest of the year. See the current hours on their website.

Wear – While the majority of animals at Gators & Friends won’t give two hoots about what you wear, the alligators take a special interest in flip-flops falling from the sky. All zipliners are required to wear closed toe shoes.

Find – Gators & Friends is located just off I-20 10 miles west of Shreveport at 11441 US HWY 80, officially in Greenwood, LA. Click here for specific directions and a map.

Commit – Be sure everyone in your group who signs on to zipline is ready to follow through as there are no refunds given once you reach the first platform. Three packages are offered: 4 lines at $34.95, 7 lines at $64.95, and 10 lines at $79.95 (3 of the 7 lines are repeated).

Unload – Lockers are available if you need to secure or stow anything you don’t want in your pockets or on your person while ziplining. Also, you can leave your child’s stroller in the car and rent a little red wagon (which handles the gravely paths much better) for only $1.

Eat – There is a snack bar on site with corn dogs, chips, crawfish pies, pizza, and icy drinks.

Feed – Cups of animal feed are available for purchase, and one complimentary cup is included for all zipliners.

Find out more:

For more information about Gators & Friends, visit www.gatorsandfriends.com or call 1-318-938-1199. For more family-friendly recommendations in this area, see The 411 on Shreveport with Kids. For a comprehensive guide to attractions and events in the Shreveport-Boissier area, visit www.shreveport-bossier.org.

*”Laissez les bon temps roulez!” is Louisianan for “Let the good times roll!”

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The post Ziplining Louisiana Style with Gators & Friends | Shreveport Family Fun appeared first on Family Travel 411.

It’s a place where music legends of the past and present have strummed and sung their way into the hall of fame, and generations-old family restaurants continue serving their signature gumbos and crawfish etouffee. Shreveport, you’ll quickly discover, has plenty to offer visitors. Especially those visiting with kids.

If you have the opportunity to visit Shreveport with kids, here are my top 4 recommended activities for families, along with recommendations for 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat while you are there.

Activity 1: Visit Sci-Port, Louisiana’s Science Center

Entering into the Space Sciences Gallery of Sci-Port, with 60+ exhibits of its own.

The average family with school-age children might spend an entire afternoon exploring Sci-Port. Start by practicing a simulated space shuttle landing in the Space Sciences Gallery. Then move on to the Physical Sciences Gallery where you might practice the art of launching paper airplanes at various angles and speeds. Next, step aboard the mini replica of Captain Shreve’s riverboat surrounded by exhibits (amphibious, archaeological, and other) celebrating the exploration of the local river in the Red River Gallery.

Once you’ve worked your way through the main galleries, don’t miss a show in the Space Planetarium, and be sure to check what’s playing in the IMAX theater (movie tickets sold separately or at a discount with Sci-Port admission). Sci-Port is open 7 days a week, though hours vary by season. For current hours, admission fees, and special exhibits, visit Sci-Port online at www.sciport.org.

Activity 2: Pay a call to Gators & Friends Exotic Petting Zoo

A 4-year-old boy holds a 4-year-old alligator at Gators & Friends. Note: The fancy belt on the employee to the left is actually a zip line harness…

Gators & Friends is home to an alphabetic ensemble of animals ranging from alligators to zebras, but while it may sound like a preschooler’s paradise, thrill-seeking teens and adults should take note of the zip lines passing over head. While small children enjoy rides on miniature horses and visits with camels, capybara, and their cousins; the more adventurous harness up here to fly through trees and pass over alligator ponds–sometimes upside-down.

You can read more about ziplining with Gators & Friends in my personal account here. Bring your camera for a free photo op with a baby alligator and spare change for snacks to feed the animals. Gators & Friends is located 10 miles west of downtown Shreveport just off Interstate 20, and it’s open most days of the year. For current hours and additional information, visit www.gatorsandfriends.com.

Activity 3: Get your culture fix at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery

One of many bronze sculptures by Frederic Remington housed at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery.

Renowned sculptor Frederic Remington’s riders rear up in bronze against a backdrop of historic paintings of the American west as visitors enter the R.W. Norton Art Gallery. Among the Norton’s impressive collections of original European and American art, you’ll also find centuries old tapestries, art glass, and silver.

But the R.W. Norton Art Gallery also houses exhibits with special appeal for the young. Don’t miss the whimsical gallery featuring bronze sculpture of storybook characters (lead photo above) or the antique porcelain doll exhibit, where Louisiana fashions from 1720 to 1920 are preserved in miniature and in intricate detail.

Admission to the museum and its special exhibits is always free. More information at the Norton’s official website: www.rwnaf.org.

Activity 4: Cool off at the Shreveport Riverfront

Kid-friendly fountains refresh at the Shreveport Riverfront.

When you’ve had your fill of artistic masterpieces, zebras and zip lines, and scientific wonder, relax at the Shreveport Riverfront Park. The fountains here are lovely to watch and the views of the river are hard to top. Better still, kids (and caregivers) can get sprayed to their hearts’ content in this set of splash-park style fountains on the upper terrace. The riverfront fountains are conveniently located across the street from Sci-Port, so plan your schedule accordingly.

1 Great Place to Stay: Homewood Suites Shreveport

Hot breakfast daily, complimentary grocery shopping, and dinners Monday through Thursday? An easy choice for many families.

To the west of downtown Shreveport off I-20 (en route to Gators & Friends), you’ll find the Homewood Suites by Hilton Shreveport, where every suite has a fully equipped kitchen and at least one flat-screen TV. Whether staying in a studio, one-, or two-bedroom suite, your family can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each day and dinners Monday through Thursdays. For more information and current specials, click here to visit the Homewood Suites Shreveport official site.

1 Great Place to Eat in Shreveport with Kids: Herby K’s

The third generation of Herby K’s carries the torch on a busy night.

Herby K’s kicked off in 1936 and, with a menu featuring 15 cent sandwiches, it quickly became popular among the hungry workers coming and going from the nearby rail yards. Though times and prices have changed a great deal, Herby K’s remains a lively favorite among locals. Not to mention, it was named a “Best of the South” Editor’s Pick for Best Seafood by Southern Living magazine.

With patio ambiance and picnic table splendor, it’s a place where grownups can relax and enjoy signature Shreveport fare while choosy kids can choose what they like from the children’s menu. Not to be missed: the original Shrimp Busters, which Herby himself made famous some 75 years ago. For the current menu and directions to Herby K’s, visit www.herbyks.net.

For more recommendations, event information, and general help planning your visit to Shreveport with kids, visit www.shreveport-bossier.org.

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The post Shreveport with Kids | Louisiana Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.