kyle mccarthy author at My Family Travels
Article
Richmond, Virginia Since The Civil War

If you thought Illinois was the "Land of Lincoln," think again -- the Spielburger served in a Richmond, Virginia cafe proves that director Steven Spielberg's...

Read More    5 min read

Article
Woodloch Pines Family Resort, Pennsylvania

Follow along as this family gets swept up in the all the fun available at the family-friendly, lakefront Woodloch Pines Resort in the Poconos.

Read More    4 min read

Two shoppers compare finds at the Vera Bradley Outlet Sale.
Article
Vera Bradley, Queen of Fort Wayne, Indiana Outlet Sales

It took me awhile to recognize the Vera Bradley label belongs on a dizzying array of quilted fabric accessories but, as soon as I did, I understood the appeal of the Queen...

Read More    3 min read

Young boy poses in front of the Taj Mahal.
Article
Falling in Love with the Taj Mahal in Agra

On your first trip to India, fall in love with the Taj Mahal in Agra, a monument to love that is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This UNESCO...

Read More    6 min read

Downtown Dubail skyline as of Oct. 2014.
Article
One Day Layover In Dubai

In Dubai, a one day layover is an ideal family adventure because this financial hub of the United Arab Emirates is a unique destination.

Read More    4 min read

Washington Monument and Cherry Blossoms
Article
Washington DC Family Attractions

There are hundreds of free family attractions in Washington DC, the American capital where presidents and their legacies are celebrated, and now it's also a very cool city to visit, with...

Read More    9 min read

The Promenade ties Fort Wayne's riverfront to its downtown.
Article
Family Ties To Fort Wayne

With many kid-friendly attractions, comfy and affordable accommodations and welcoming brewpubs, Fort Wayne, Indiana is the kind of place families immediately feel at home. I don’t...

Read More    4 min read

Horseshoe Falls
Article
Awed By The Water World Of Niagara Falls USA

Having spent five days exploring Niagara Falls, New York, we are fascinated to see how water defines the...

Read More    7 min read

Article
China Trip Planner Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Preparing for your grand tour of China, including creating an itinerary to meet your family's interests and managing your time, may be a little easier with these useful tips. When I began planning our...

Read More    4 min read

Soar with Hagrids Magical Creatures and Motorbike Adventure
Article
Universal Orlando Resort, Florida

Universal Orlando in Florida has been thrilling theme park goers for more than 25 years. Now three massive theme parks comprise Universal...

Read More    5 min read

Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel
Article
Disneyland Hotels And Resorts

Three fun family hotels are located within the Disneyland Resort theme park complex in Anaheim, California. Although they may charge more than some local chains, guests receive privileges...

Read More    4 min read

Women's and children's cowboy boots
Article
Cheyenne Wyoming Welcomes Families

Cheyenne, Wyoming describes itself as the place to "come live the legend" and during the annual Cheyenne...

Read More    7 min read

Article
Saving Euros on a European Adventure

Since summer is the most expensive time to visit Europe, we're sharing the euro-saving tips we learned from our own recent adventure. And, with the strong exchange rate, drop in tourism due to several...

Read More    6 min read

Adventure by Disney guides lead families
Article
Adventures By Disney AmaWaterways River Cruises

The Adventures by Disney tour company and AmaWaterways are bringing pixie dust to European river cruises. Family-oriented, luxury river cruises have Disney-trained Adventure Guides, engaging activities...

Read More    3 min read

Connor Prairie living history museum welcome center
Article
Best of Indianapolis and Indiana for Kids

The heart of the Midwest and a city to emulate, Indianapolis, Indiana boasts several kid attractions as well as leading efforts in sustainable development and wellness. It's a place where families find...

Read More    9 min read

A miniature rendition of Parc Guell, in Barcelona seen at Catalunya en Miniatura
Article
Barcelona, Spain With Teens In Tow

If you need a spring break destination that teens will thank you for, Barcelona Spain -- with its own language, cuisine and arts -- is a favorite with this crowd and all ages. Whether your family's...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Surviving Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month

Tackling a new sport like skiing -- whether you're my age or a toddler -- is a challenge that the snow sports industry helps overcome each January with

Read More    4 min read

Article
Top 10 Geek Sights In Silicon Valley

If you're tired of technology taking over your life, take back control in Silicon Valley, where you can see the 10 top tech sights of interest to any geek and nerd. Google is headquartered...

Read More    4 min read

Article
A Cultural Christmas In Oaxaca, Mexico

Mexico's colonial gem of Oaxaca honors every Catholic holiday, but nothing is as colorful or fun as the Festival de la Noche de Rabanos, a world-class Christmas family vacation. Oaxaca,...

Read More    5 min read

Article
A Club Med Sandpiper Bay Family Vacation

At Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Americans no longer need a passport to enjoy an exotic, all-inclusive family beach vacation packed with children's activities. Club Med's legendary tropical...

Read More    7 min read

Article
Sustainable Fun Makes Pittsburgh Kidsburgh

By cleaning up its act and investing in the quality of life of their city, the Pittsburgh you may remember has evolved into a "Kidsburgh" that attracts families to live and visit....

Read More    7 min read

Article
Istanbul, Turkey: City of Ages

Turkey's capital city of Istanbul is not only full of family attractions, this classic stopover of world travelers has become one of Europe's hottest destinations.

Read More    13 min read

Feathered Pipe, Montana
Article
Yoga Tourism: The Mind Body Vacation

In this stressful age, the subject of yoga retreats as "vacation" comes up often. Travelers may ask, are they a good option for a parent-child or three generation getaway? The answer is yes,...

Read More    5 min read

Club Med la Palmeraie outside Marrakech, Morocco, at dusk
Article
Club Meds Of Morocco

Combine an exotic locale, millenia of history, and a comfortable resort atmosphere populated by like-minded families and voila! You have the three Club Meds in Morocco, each an all-inclusive and family-welcoming...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Amanjena, Peaceful Paradise In Marrakech

A day at the Amanjena Resort in Marrakech is like a tour of the palace depicted in the tale "One Thousand and One Nights." Simply put, it's a more refined narrative of Arabian life than...

Read More    4 min read

Bullfighter Joserra Lozano in Madrid
Article
Madrid, Spain Attractions

Madrid exudes such positive energy that it's a worthwhile destination for everyone of every age. We guarantee enough museums and galleries to satisfy every art lover in the family. There are plenty of...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Charlevoix Luxury Resorts – Unforgettable Getaways

Canada's scenic region of Charlevoix luxury resorts, Fairmont...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Paris, France: City Reborn

When sightseeing with teens, you'll notice that Paris is more environmentally conscientious and respectful of other cultures than ever before, while remaining as charmingly French as ever. To visit...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Amsterdam, The Netherlands Attractions

With new Eurostar highspeed train service direct from London to Amsterdam, Holland's colorful cultural center and Europe's party capital will see more tourism than ever. Families, however, can take a different...

Read More    10 min read

Downtown Ledbury with Market Building.
Article
Ledbury and the Malvern Hills

We recently explored the towns around Ledbury and the Malvern Hills in historic Herefordshire and Worcestershire counties. Whether you have a week or a weekend, there’s plenty of local culture and recreation...

Read More    5 min read

Article
Best Winter Fun in the Black Forest

For families with toddlers and school-age children –- or snowsports novices of any age -- Germany's Black Forest is a magical place to fall in love with alpine sports and the outdoors. Having toured...

Read More    6 min read

Disney's children's club spaces.
Article
Grown Ups At Sea Aboard The Disney Fantasy

On a recent voyage of the Disney Fantasy, I had the pleasure of sharing an adult Disney experience at sea with my mom. Since the ship, sister to the Disney Dream,...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Odense, Denmark, Home of Hans Christian Andersen

Small town charm, celebrity residents, fine dining and good hotels combine to make Odense a wonderful introduction to the people and culture of Denmark. Despite the more contemporary fame of...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Hilton Waikoloa Village and Grand Vacations Resort

When it comes to multigenerational family vacations, size does matter and, at the classic Hilton Waikoloa Village bigger means...

Read More    3 min read

Article
City At Sea Aboard Norwegian Breakaway

Bold, brash, a ship that never sleeps... that's our instant impression of Norwegian Breakaway, as our 2014 media and travel agent group boards the vessel for her maiden voyage. With only a...

Read More    8 min read

Article
Guide To Royal Caribbean International Family Cruises

Royal Caribbean cruise vacations are packed with high-energy activities and entertainment for all passengers, regardless of age, making this cruise line a favorite with active families. The line's spacious...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Vounteer Vacations Where Going Away Means Giving Back

Interest in volunteer vacations has grown as travelers seeking a local experience realize their presence affects a destination -– for better (creating jobs) or worse (degrading the environment). Because...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Outside The Gates: Adventures In Jamaica

Jamaica has redefined what it means to have an all-inclusive beach vacation by suggesting that guests explore real island culture outside their resort. It's a great idea to share the wealth...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Fairmont San Francisco Does Family Well

At the Fairmont Hotels & Resort's flagship property, the beautiful Fairmont San Francisco, my family was lucky enough to find out what the "Affordable Luxury for Families" concept...

Read More    4 min read

Article
5 Multigenerational Vacation Ideas For Winter Getaways

According to AAA, 103 million Americans traveled over the 2016 holiday season, a 1.5 percent increase over the previous year. Although 9 out of 10 vacationers took road trips, air travel was also up...

Read More    5 min read

Essaouira harbor
Article
Atlantic Morocco: Beach With Benefits

An Atlantic oceanfront view of north Africa's most intriguing country, Morocco, presents this family with a relaxing and rewarding vacation. We knew a few things from our first trip to Morocco: its...

Read More    7 min read

Article
Say Bibbidi Bobbidi, Be a Princess or Pirate

In what may have been a first at sea, Disney Cruise Line devoted 94 square meters of real estate on the Disney Fantasy to...

Read More    2 min read

Article
Family Wellness Lives At Omni La Costa Resort

The Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is designed for family fitness vacations, and is a fun place to introduce children to a healthy lifestyle. Luxuriously restored, the Mediterranean style...

Read More    6 min read

Article
Safari West And Save Yourself A Flight To Africa

Those unexpectedly upside down moments in life, like seeing the Golden Arches among the pagodas of Beijing, can be fun and very reassuring, especially when traveling with kids. But when it's the reverse...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Mines and Meadows ATV – RV Resort, Wampum, Pennsylvania

Not a conventional umbrellas-in-your-drink resort, Mines and Meadows is a rough-cut, rough-riding gem for ATV enthusiasts in the hills north of Pittsburgh... and a real family vacation find. Mines...

Read More    4 min read

Article
10 Tips To Avoid Hassles At U.S. Borders

Whether your cellphone contains confidential business documents or you’re packing homemade cranberry sauce, unless you’re exempted by diplomatic status, everyone crossing U.S. borders is subject...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Making Lemonade on an Emergency Airport Layover

I got a pound of lemons: an air traffic delay in Fort Lauderdale, a flight cancellation, being rerouted to Chicago O’Hare, an accident at LaGuardia, emergency airport closures, and a snow alert that...

Read More    3 min read

Article
What Makes Best Western Hotels Special

When I recall the Best Western hotels we’ve stayed in, there’s always a pleasant surprise, an offbeat architectural detail, unexpected kid-friendly perk, or a free breakfast buffet worthy of a five-star...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Paris, The Lady and The Ring

It is Paris; it is drizzling. We are at Place de la Madeleine in front of a Parthenon-style church built by a Napoleon who couldn’t decide whether to brag about his victories or act humble before...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Switzerland’s Peak Experiences

Switzerland in summer is a sensual overload: cool mountain breezes and deep blue lakes, blisteringly hot cobblestone lanes and chilled ice cream treats. Travelers who want to understand why affluent...

Read More    5 min read