Travel Archives - Page 8 of 19

Two Fun Places To Stay In Alaska If You Love The Outdoors & Fishing

August 13, 2014 by Stefani Tolson 22 Comments

“I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for the Waterfall Group. I received a gift basket and a promotional item to thank me for my participation.”

If you are one that loves to travel, relax and see the outdoors there are two places to stay in Alaska that you will want to see, especially if you like to fish.

The first place that you will want to see is Waterfall Resort, the most POPULAR fishing lodge in Alaska. Waterfall Resort is recognized as one of the finest sport fishing destinations in the world. Looking to see nature? The Waterfall Resort covers 52 acres in the Longass National Forest that include scenic shorelines, nature trails, observation decks, salmon trails, a waterfall and more.

If you like to bring the party with you, the Waterfall Resort has the accommodations to host up to 92 groups which is perfect if you are planning a fishing tournament. The resort offers 4 start guest service, professional conference rooms, a world class fishing adventure with luxury accommodations and even an executive chef that delivers three full meals a day.

The second place I want to mention is Steamboat Bay Fishing Club that is sited on Noyes Island by SE Alsaska’s Inside Passage, one of the MOST famous fishing locations on earth.

Now this is a little different than the Waterfall Resort because it is only reserved for no more than 16 guests. This is a location for those that want to experience a unique, all-inclusive luxury experience. Steamboat Fishing Club offers ocean-front rooms, wood burning stoves, expansive decks with beautiful scenic views and more

Both the Waterfall Resort and Steamboat Bay Fishing Club are set in the world’s most beautiful locations, Ketchikan Alaska. They provide rods, reels, tackle, bait, and all-weather gear and an Alaska Airlines Agent to check in all fish that guests bring home. Resort guests can fish for King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Halibut, Ling Cod, Red Snapper, Black Bass and Rock Fish.

Have you ever been to Alaska? Share where you have been.

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Mrs. Potato Head’s Travel Tips

July 5, 2014 by Stefani Tolson 8 Comments

For those of you that are looking to travel this summer, I have some fun tips for you. In Pixar’s timeless Toy Story movies, Mrs. Potato Head packs Mr. Potato Head with all his essential travel needs – including his angry eyes and an extra pair of shoes! In honor of Disney Movies Anywhere’s “Pixar Summer Movies To Go,” the tasteful ‘tater reveals her spud-tacular travel tips exclusively for you. Here is Mrs. Potato Head’s travel tips she wants to share:

TATER TRAVEL TIP #1: MAKE A LIST!

Mr. Potato Head can be a klutz when it comes to packing, which is why Mrs. Potato Head loves to make a list of packing essentials for their vacation needs. It’s a good idea for the sweet potato to start planning her list weeks before the traveling ‘taters head off on their journey. By planning so far in advance, you are much less likely to miss off any travel necessities!

TATER TRAVEL TIP #2: ROLL UP, ROLL UP!

Who wants to iron an outfit when you reach your destination? Mr. Potato Head doesn’t, that’s for sure! Instead of folding your clothes and placing them in your suitcase, try rolling them. Tightly rolled clothes are less likely to get heavy wrinkles from fold creases and they take up less room.

TATER TRAVEL TIP #3: PACK LIGHTLY!

Nobody wants to be weighed down with heavy baggage, especially if you’re a tourist ‘tater who wants to wander around with ease. That’s exactly why Mrs. Potato Head suggests everybody packs lightly. Pack layers of clothing that you can easily put on or take off. And think twice about adding that spare pair of shoes to your luggage. Do you really need them?

TATER TRAVEL TIP #4: KNOW THE RULES!

Mrs. Potato Head is a stickler for the rules. Get to know them all before you travel, especially if you’re flying! If your journey involves an airplane ride, make sure you pack correctly and don’t place any large liquids (such as a regular-sized bottle of perfume or a can of hairspray) in your carry-on luggage. All liquids brought onto planes must be in 3.4-ounce bottles or smaller. And they must all be placed inside a single, clear, quart-size zip-top bag.

TATER TRAVEL TIP #5: CARRY-ON VALUABLES…

What would Mr. Potato Head do without his trusty bowler hat and his angry eyes? Well, every now and then luggage gets delayed or lost – and that’s exactly why it’s a good idea to pack your travel essentials and valuables in your carry-on bag. Never put them in your checked luggage! Make sure your ID, passport, keys, money, credit cards, jewelry and electronics are safe and secure in your carry-on bag, as well as items like extra contact lenses and a spare pair of undies. Happy traveling!

Check out the full gallery of images on the Disney Movies Anywhere Facebook Page…

Post by Disney Movies Anywhere.

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Eileen Fisher’s 7 Travel Essentials

June 30, 2014 by Stefani Tolson 3 Comments

Summer is here and it is definitely time for the travel season! Between the extended weekends or week long vacations, Eileen Fisher can help you pack with these 7 Travel Essentials. From dresses, separates and accessories, Eileen Fisher is your one stop shop as you are planning your getaway.

Short Cami Dress in Silk Crepe de Chine, $258.00
Dote Wedge Sandal in Italian Vachetta Leather, $109.00
Cropped Jean Jacket in Organic Cotton Stretch Denim, $218.00
Scarf in Silk Shibori Streams, $158.00
Drawstring Backpack in Pebbled Leather, $298.00
Bateau Neck Top in Organic Linen Jersey Melange, $158.00
Slim Ankle Jean in Garment-Dyed Organic Stretch Twill, $178.00

I love all these of these…

All styles available at : www.eileenfisher.com

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Explore South Lake Tahoe: Camp Richardson Resort (#Travel)

June 8, 2014 by Stefani Tolson 11 Comments

I received a complimentary stay & meal at Camp Richardson in exchange for this review. No monetary compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions state are my own.

A couple weeks ago I had the opportunity to take a little mini-vacation with my two oldest daughters to Camp Richardson in Lake Tahoe. I had heard about this location from a friend and was a little anxious about my visit. At Camp Richardson Resort they have not only have a historic hotel you can stay at, they also have CABINS. What even makes Camp Richardson even better is house the closest marina to Emerald Bay.

When I was a child I remember going on a little vacation with my dad and we stayed in a cabin. I have always wanted to do the same with my kids. When I heard that Camp Richardson offers furnished cabins that are right by the lake I knew this is the place I wanted to go. Not only would it be fun to stay in a cabin and get to explore nature with my daughters, I knew it would be a perfect opportunity to take some pictures of South Lake Tahoe and the waters of Emerald Bay.

Once we pulled up to our cabin I knew it was going a perfect little home away from home for the next couple days. Once we got out of the car we were excited to open the door, check out the inside of the cabin and then check out the awesome Lake Tahoe scenery.

We stayed in the Studebaker Cabin which is Cabin #28 out of 42 cabins you can stay at Camp Richardson. This is a 2 bedroom cabin that sleeps eight people that is available all year round. The cabin has a kitchen/dining area, living room area, 2 bedrooms with 2 beds in each room and 1 bathroom. Now if you don’t need that much space they also have smaller and cheaper cabins to rent such as their studio and 1 bedroom cabins.

Even though I haven’t seen the other cabins (yet), I think the Studebaker might be one of the best cabins. Not because it is furnished nicely, because it is located the closest to the water. Take a peek at the Camp Richardson Resort map below where I have circled the cabin we stayed in.

Before I show you the inside of the Studebaker cabin, I want to show you the views from the front door that I had to take before walking in.

I spent a lot of time outside on the porch just admiring the view while I could. I sat there wishing that I could have this view everyday while I work on my blog posts.

Now its time to see the inside of my neat little cabin I got to stay in. I think we might have been a little spoiled because I didn’t want to leave. It was fun being able to get away from the city and spend time with my girls.

This cabin comes complete with a kitchen and dining area. It has a refrigerator, sink, stove, oven, plates, glasses and silverware and even pots and pans to cook your own food. We brought food and it was fun being able to cook in a different kitchen. On our last night the oven came in perfect for pizza night!

Next is the living room area which is cute and cozy. You will find plenty of places to sit including a hide a bed in the large sofa. You will also find a fireplace that kept us very warm. The only thing you won’t find in these cabins are TV’s.

If you have a large family like me, this cabin might be perfect. It has 2 bedrooms that include 1 Double Bed & 1 Twin Bed in one bedroom and 2 Double Beds in the other.

After we got to the cabin and unloaded all our stuff I had to go outside to not only breathe the fresh air but take a peek at what was around. I love the outdoors, I love exploring nature and I LOVE taking pictures. Here are just a few of some of the shots I got around the cabin.

Some of my favorite pictures I took were of the docks located at Camp Richardson. This one was right near my cabin and a great spot for photos during any part of the day.

After walking around the Camp Richardson Resort and taking lots of photos we settled in for the night and my daughter Hailey cooked us dinner. Although the resort doesn’t have TV’s in the cabin, I did bring my laptop and some DVDs so we could watch movies together in the living room by the nice warm fireplace.

When we woke up the next morning it was snowing! When you don’t live where it snows it can be really exciting to see it snow. While we had plans to ride bikes and do some hiking on the trails, we spent most of morning and early afternoon playing in the snow and taking pictures to brag to our friends and family until the rain came later to wash it away.

Even though I had my hopes up on riding some bikes in South Lake Tahoe, I really enjoyed seeing the snow. My daughters have only seen snow a handful of times so it was a treat to see South Lake Tahoe in white. I also enjoyed taking pictures of these beautiful Canadian geese playing in the snow.

Since the day consisted of snow and rain, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to eat lunch at The Beacon Bar & Grill that is located at Camp Richardson. Cooking in the cabin was fun but it was also a treat to relax and eat lunch together.

I was in the mood for tacos so I went with the Rib-Eye Tacos. My daughters chose the Santa Maria Tri-Tip Sandwich and the Chipotle Chicken Sandwich. I loved my meal and so did my daughters. We got more than enough food and was able to take back a little for a snack when we got back to our cabin. Next time I am going to try their popular Rum Runner drink.

Not only does this restaurant have some delicious food it also has a beautiful view of Emerald Bay that you can enjoy while eating.

What I love about Camp Richardson is that you can visit this place all year around. During the winter you can enjoy activities that involved snow. During the summer months you can enjoy the activities available from the Mountain Sports Center including bike rentals and hiking. You can also have fun boating, take advantage of the Lake Tahoe Waterski Ski, tour the Emerald Bay on their Rum Rummer Cruise or maybe try Parasailing for the first time!

While you are staying at Camp Richardson you have some additional amenities as well. In walking distance you will find an ice cream parlor, a place to buy some coffee & confectionery as well as find souvenirs at The General Store. If you are lazy and don’t want to cook, The General Store also serves breakfast and lunch daily. You can also access the FREE Wi-Fi from this location for those that need to check their email.

This time to Camp Richardson was a girls trip. Next time I plan on taking the whole family for a few days of fun.

To find out more about Camp Richardson, visit: www.CampRichardson.com.

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My Tour Of The Los Angeles Zoo In Support Of #DisneynatureBears

April 16, 2014 by Stefani Tolson 14 Comments

When it comes to traveling and places to see, I always enjoy visiting a zoo. If you were to look at places my family has gone together, most of the time it will be a zoo somewhere. We have been to our two local zoos more time than I can count. I love animals and I love taking pictures of them.

Last month I had the opportunity to take a tour of the Los Angeles Zoo in support of the new Disneynature film “Bears” that will be playing in theaters starting this Friday. Our mission going to the zoo was to see the bears exhibit as well as some of the other exciting animals.

Once we were in the gates our tour started with the California Condor Rescue Zone that is a FUN place that is designed for elementary school aged children. When you are inside they have play space that children will enjoy and even the adults.

Here I am having a little fun pretending to be a condor. They have big wings and small wings so everyone can enjoy the experience.

They also have these cool puppets that I couldn’t resist playing with.

(Photo Credit: Mommy’s Busy)

While at the California Condor Rescue Zone you can learn about the life of the California Condor in the wild and how they are trying to rescue this species from extinction. You can also pretend to be a zoo vet and even find out some of the bad things that these condors eat that they should not be eating.

Take a peek at this x-ray that they have hanging on the wall. See the stomach and then see what was actually inside the stomach? I think I see a ring!

Before we left the California Condor Zone we got a chance to meet Dolly, a California Condor. Dolly just isn’t any ordinary condor, Dolly has a story.

Dolly was originally from an egg that was laid at the Oregon Zoo condor facility, hatched in Pinnacles National Park and then transferred to the wild by the Los Angeles Zoo staff. When Dolly was 4 months the zoo veterinarian noticed something wrong with her wing. After two surgeries it was determined that Dolly would never be able to fly. Instead of putting Dolly in the wild where she would be in danger, the Los Angeles Zoo decided that Dolly would become the nation’s first condor ambassador!

Now it was time to take a little ride in the cool carts for a tour of the zoo and to check out some of the animals. This is the best way to tour a zoo in my opinion. 🙂

First thing we drove by was some cute koalas. Then we passed the Western Gray Kangaroos. I do think it would be cool to be able to touch a kangaroo one day. I have always loved these kangaroos since I was a kid watching Captain Kangaroo. This was my second time seeing one in real life.

Our tram stopped and it was time to check out the chimpanzees. I have a soft spot in my heart for Jane Goodall and I have a soft spot in my heart for chimpanzees so I want to share this:

The Los Angeles Zoo is home to one of the largest chimpanzee troops of any zoo in the country. Built in 1998, the Zoo’s “Chimpanzees of the Mahale Mountains” habitat has been hailed by renowned primatologist Jane Goodall as one of the country’s finest chimpanzee habitats. Maintaining a healthy, diverse zoo population of chimpanzees is crucial to the survival of the species. (Source https://lazoo.org)

I have always found chimpanzees to be very interesting and entertaining rather it be watching them be silly at a zoo or watching them on a documentary.

If you stand there and watch, the chimpanzees will make faces at you or do things to get your attention. Here is one of the cute chimpanzees giving me a grin while I snapped a photo with my cell phone. Every time I look at this photo it makes me smile.

After watching the chimpanzees for a while it was time for lunch with my Disneynature “Bear” friend Scout. The food was great but me and Scout were ready to see more animals!

Next stop, some lemurs! The Los Angeles Zoo is home to actually a few different specials of lemurs including the Ring-Tailed Lemur, Sclater’s Blue-Eyed (Black) Lemur and the Coquerel’s Sifaka. Below is a picture that I shot of one of my favorites, a Coquerel’s Sifaka lemur.

Lemurs are found only in Madagascar, off the coast of Africa so I thought it was great to be able to see one so close. The https://www.lazoo.org/animals/mammals/coquerels-sifaka/ are a medium sized lemur that have powerful hind legs which allow them to swing from tree to tree without much effort. They also have some strong feet because they have the ability to cling to the thorniest of plants in their habitat.

One of my favorites to see at the zoo was the CUTE Masai giraffes (also known as the Maasai giraffes). When we first drove past them, I got this great shot of the zebra and the crowd.

Once we are off the cart I was able to take more pictures of the beautiful animals. I got quite a few good ones that I might just have to do a whole post about them.

I even got some video footage of the giraffes and some information about them.

Next we seen a couple hippos…

And then we seen this tiger…

We finally arrived at our key destination, the American Black Bear. Our group had previously watched a screening of the upcoming Disneynature’s film “Bears” before arriving at the zoo so it was exciting to be able to get to see an actual bear right after watching the film.

American Black Bear - Los Angeles Zoo

Here are a couple pictures of the American Black Bear that me and Scout were able to take.

After taking some pictures of Ranger the bear, we had to check out the noisy Siamangs. These animals like to give a little show to the zoo guests too!

After listening to the Siamangs sing, we walked over to check out Randa the Indian Rhinoceros. I don’t know her exact age but I know she is close to 50 years old.

Want to see Randa up close? The LA Zoo offers and Indian Rhino Experience where visitors can purchase tickets to get an up close and personal encounter with Randa. This includes behind the scenes contact, touching the rhino and even feeding her.

If you are by Randa, you will also get a chance to see the Andean Condors. These are South American birds that are part of the vulture family. Their head and neck are dull red, nearly featherless and could change color depending on their emotional state.

The wings on the Andean Condor are what amazes me.

After we seen the rhino and the condors, it was time to check out the Giant Otters.

The Giant Otters are the largest in the otter family and classified as endangered. These little guys are cute but also noisy, especially when they are hungry.

We ended the trip to the zoo with a fun ride on the carousel…

And a trip to the gift shop because this mom had to bring back some surprises to her little ones at home…

To see some of the video clips I took during my tour of the Los Angeles Zoo, watch my video here:

Check out the Los Angeles Zoo Links:

Do you like my friend Scout, the plush I took along on my journey to the zoo?

You can buy a Disneynature “Scout” or “Amber” plush bear on the Disneystore website to help support the National Park Foundation. The Disney Store is going to contribute $1 for every BEARS plush that is purchased between now and 5/11/14.

Disneynature’s Bears is in theaters this Friday!

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