Known as “Little Paris†or “Paris on the Danube,†Budapest is a fascinating city, rich in history, and cultural wonders.
Budapest is more than just a stunning cosmopolitan city in Eastern Europe. Visitors flock here for exotic food, antiques, shopping, bargain prices, entertainment and history. Hungary’s struggle against both Nazi and communist occupation offers families a sobering insight into the country’s past. Children with an affinity for history, or parents who want to expose their teenagers to some of Eastern Europe’s heritage can take a walk through time in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
Sightseeing in Óbuda
Many savvy travelers already know that modern Budapest is comprised of two distinctively different areas, Buda and Pest, which are divided by the majestic waters of the Danube River. But, if you take a look further back in history, you’ll see that the city was originally comprised of three areas; the third being Óbuda. In 1873, Óbuda was united with Buda and Pest to form today’s Budapest.
“Old Buda” has been inhabited since the Stone Age and was home to the ancient Romans who formed the capitol for their Pannonia province. The Romans named it Aquincum and stationed nearly 6,000 soldiers there in 89 AD. Because their settlement bordered the Danube, and Aquincum means “abundant in water,” it is believed that the Romans understood and utilized the therapeutic value of Budapest’s famous thermal springs. Ruins from ancient military baths indicate a long-standing tradition that is alive today in Hungary.
To learn more about the history of the area, The Aquincum Museum (36 1 250-1650, Szentendrei út 139) features a view into the ancient Roman ruins of Acquincum. Discover two amphitheaters, villas, sanctuaries, baths, water aqueducts, shrines, a market place, and sculptures. The museum showcases traditional jewels, glassware, metal tools, and paintings from the Roman era. It hosts seasonal events such as Floralia, a Roman spring feast, a Roman mosaic workshop for families, and, during its annual Summer Festival from mid-may until mid-September, tourists can get a sense of what the everyday lives of the Romans were really like through traditional dress, pictures, and artifacts.
Today, Old Buda showcases a variety of ancient attractions left over from the Roman era. Visitors can make their way through the cobble stone streets and stroll through this small and secluded area. Start by paying a visit to Kiskorona utca, or Kiskorona Street, to peruse the medieval ruins of a convent and the Óbudai Társaskör. During holidays, summers, and special city events, Társaskör acts as the center for Old Buda’s cultural life. You’ll find pastry, coffee shops, pubs, and souvenir stands through this cultural artery.
Main Square is undoubtedly one of the most favored Old Buda attractions and features a tranquil 18th century setting that feels relatively undisturbed. The area underwent intense turmoil as the Turks destroyed most of the medieval buildings during their 150-year reign. To get an overview of what the area has to offer, walk over to Zichy Castle, erected during the 18th century. Although never completed, it’s presently home to several museums including the Lajos Kassák Museum, Óbuda Museum, Victor Vasarely Museum, and Budapest Gallery. Directly opposite of the gallery, look for the impressive Classicist-style synagogue, which most recently housed a TV studio.
Don’t forget the military bath museum of Thermae Maiores (36 1 250-1650, 1033 Budapest, Flórán tér, Aluljáró) located under the flyover at Ãrpád Bridge on Flórián Square. The baths were used by the military and its remains were discovered in the 18th century. It’s a great insight into the long-lasting tradition of Hungarian baths.
Exploring Buda
Old Buda, Buda, and Buda Hills all flow into one another and can be reached by car, bus subway or cable car. Buda proper is universally known by tourists for its Castle District. And, for kids, the best part of exploring Buda might just be getting there. Kids will love riding the cable car, or funicular, into Buda, which is located off of the Chain Bridge. If your family enjoys a brisk walk, traverse the historic bridge first to get a view of both sides of the city and the Danube. The bridge is stunning at night and kids will love the enormous lions that protect each side. Folklore suggests that the sculptor forgot the tongues of the lion and was mocked so much, he jumped into the river in shame. However, there actually are tongues, they just aren’t visible from below. See if the kids can spot them on the way over.
During the summer, the Chain Bridge is home to Budapest’s largest street festival. Every weekend between July and mid-August, dozens of musicians, craftsmen and food vendors set up stands on the bridge and show off their skills. Kids of all ages will love the festival; not only can they learn the basics of Hungarian woodcarving, embroidery and other traditional crafts, they can also sample treats such as kurtos kalács, a hollow, cylindrical pastry covered in sugar or walnuts.
Once over the bridge and up the funicular, stroll the castle area and beyond for a taste of medieval influence. Start the Castle District of Buda at The Royal Palace (36 1 375-7533, 1 Szent, Gyógy tér) which was first inhabited by King Béla in the 13th century. Wanting to avoid another Mongol invasion, he turned it into a fortress for protection. Because of its proximity to the Danube and control of the waterway, Buda was invaded numerous times and resulted in frequent rebuilding.
One of the most famous sieges was the Turks’ invasion of the Castle District in 1541. They ruled until 1686 when the Austrian Habsburgs and their allied armies took back the hill. The siege left the Castle District in ruins and reconstruction took place with Baroque influence. As a result of the many attacks, the Castle District boasts a mix of styles ranging from Gothic to Baroque. Despite its many invasions, the Royal Palace housed a variety of royal families for nearly 700 years. Today, it houses the Budapest History Museum (36 1 487-8801, Szent György tér 2., Budavári Palota E épület) with exhibitions on the city’s history and ancient remains. Visitors can also stop by the National Gallery (36 20 439-7325, H-1014 Budapest, Szent György tér 2) and the Ludwig Museum (06 1 555-3444, 1095 Bp, Komor Marcell u. 1) while on the palace grounds.
Next, visit the Fisherman’s Bastion (District I, Szentháromság tér), named after the fishermen whose duty it was to protect the hill during the Middle Ages. Tourists can easily find it by looking for the famous equestrian statue of King Stephen, the first king of Hungary. The bastion was actually built in 1905 on the castle walls and ruins, and was never used for protection. Instead, it honors the fishermen who protected the hill and boasts white walls and staircases connecting seven turrets. That number symbolizes the seven Magyar tribes that conquered the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century and settled Hungary. Climb the short stairs to the front wall for a stunning view over the Danube and Budapest below.
Walk over to the nearby Matthias Church to see the renowned Catholic epicenter of Budapest with its neo-gothic detailing and bell tower. Its name comes from King Matthias, who held both of his weddings here. During Turkish rule, it was transformed into a mosque until the Hasburgs recaptured Buda. Visitors can view the tower, the ceilings and ornate stained glass windows, collection of religious artifacts, and wall paintings depicting the events of Hungary’s history.
Next, take a walk over to Maria Magdalene Tower, a Franciscan church that was the only Christian church under Turkish rule. Catholics and Protestants both used it until the Turks eventually turned it into a mosque. The church’s 15th century tower was the only piece of the church to survive the bombings.
Behind the Maria Magdalene Tower lies the Military Museum (Tóth Ãrpád sétány 40). Visitors fortunate enough to visit Budapest on October 23rd will mark the anniversary of the 1956 uprising against communism. The museum houses a wealth of information on the events of the nearly 2-week long battle, as well as the hand of a Stalin statue, uniforms, flags, coins, and weapons. You might see locals flying their Hungarian flag with a hole cut out of the middle. They removed the communist symbol that was sewn in during the occupation to show their allegiance to their country and freedom.
Wind down your Castle District experience with a visit to the Buda Castle Labyrinth (36 1 212-0207) of caves, tunnels, and cellars underneath the quaint cobbled streets. Kids will think they’ve walked into a hidden, medieval adventure maze. The area stretches for nearly 10km and visitors can explore beween 1.5 and 2km of it. The combination of naturally formed and excavated tunnels is explained in its waxworks exhibition and guided tours. During World War II, thousands of Hungarians were forced to live in secret, riding out the destruction. Kids or grown-ups afraid of the dark and tight spaces should skip the labyrinth. But for the brave seeking a little excitement, try the Labyrinth of Courage where children walk in total darkness with the help of a rope until they find sunlight. And after 6:00 pm, visits are guided by oil lamp.
One of the most popular bathhouses in the city lies in Buda. The Rudas Baths (36 1 202-3688, Dobrentei ter 9) features a stunning array of baths ranging from extremely hot to warm to mild, under octagonal domes. Visitors can also have inexpensive massages as part of their admission fee. Another popular bathhouse is the Király Baths (36 1 202-3688). Housed underneath an octagonal domed roof, the Király bathhouse is a good destination for families seeking a more authentic Turkish feel. Remember that baths alternate between male-only and female-only days so be sure to check the schedule ahead of time. Keep in mind that many Hungarians wear skimpy bathing suits and many baths are bathing suit optional.
Families looking for a special outing just for kids should visit The Palace of Wonders (36 1 350-6131, XIII. Váci út 19) over in nearby Buda Hills. The interactive science museum offers plenty of room to run and play, touch, and explore — try the laser displays, optical puzzles, and mazes. The museum features plenty to keep adults busy, too. And with everything in one large room, you can keep an eye on the kids without too much trouble. Outside the large building lies a park and fountains, ideal for picnicking, fresh air, and outdoor play.
Modern Pest
Pest, the more modern side of the Budapest, offers an eclectic mix of architecture, modern conveniences, theater, entertainment, flea markets and restaurants.
Head out to Hero’s Square, where many of Pest’s family-friendly attractions are clustered. This urban square features varied statues depicting Budapest’s history. This landmark of Budapest and the central site of the square houses the Millennium Memorial with statues of the leaders of the seven tribes that founded Hungary in the 9th century, and other important Hungarian figures. The expansive square is a popular spot to stretch your legs, take photos, and gather during Hungarian holidays. Kids prone to wandering or running off should be kept under close watch as there are no walls or gates surrounding the perimeter of the square. Cars whiz around, but will stop for pedestrians making their way to the surrounding museums and park.
In Pest, families will want to take a tour of Hungary’s Parliament (36 1 441-4904). The building can hold around 50 five-story apartment buildings, making it one of the largest parliament buildings in the world. There is a lot to see, and kids will probably get tired from walking aorund, so parents may want to choose two or three areas they especially want to see.
Art lovers can cross from the square to the Museum of Fine Arts (36 1 469-7100, Dózsa György út 41) or to the Palace of Art, although the quiet space, ornate walls, endless art, and sobering paintings might not be a good choice for kids. From the Museum of Fine Arts, follow the signs to the Zoo and Circus, and look across the street for Széchenyi Bath House (36 1 363-3210, City Park).
Tourists who have spent a few hours in the city can see that Budapest is peppered with bathhouses. Locals incorporate a day at the baths as part of their regular routine and culture. Each bath is known for its specific medicinal and thermal properties, and depending on the ailment, locals and tourists choose from among the varying baths. Located in City Park, Széchenyi Bath House is probably the most popular option for families. Look for the crowds that gather around the ivy walls of the Turkish-style thermal baths. The Budapest City Card offers a discount at Széchenyi, but only at the entrance facing the zoo. Prices and refund explanations are posted in English and most staff members can assist and explain the lockers and policies to tourists.
The Gellért Thermal Spa (36 1 466-6166), considered one of Budapest’s most spectacular bathhouses, is a relaxing experience for both adults and children. The open-air swimming pool is especially popular with kids during the summer months when the artifical wave machine is turned on. The bathhouse mosaics, stained glass windows and Art-Nouveau sculptures provide guests with a unique bathing atmosphere, and the children’s pool gives parents a chance to sneak off for a massage. Keep in mind that most doctors do not recommend a thermal bath to small children, or limit the time to around 20-minutes.
The Most Kid-Welcoming Attractions
City Park was designed in 1896 to celebrate the Hungarian Millennium. Several small museums and an artificial lake can be found in the park, but its crowning glory is Vajdahunyad Castle, inspired by a castle in Transylvania, Romania, that is also called Vajdahunyad. It embodies a mix of Romanic, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It’s free to walk through the park and enjoy the sights. Take a look at the pond at some of the local birds and ducks that can’t be found back home. A popular stop for kids inside the park is the Timewheel, the world’s largest hourglass.
From here, you can walk over to the Budapest Zoo (36.1) 273.4900, H-1146 Budapest, Ãllatkerti krt. 6-12). Kids can see baby rhinos, brown bears, chimpanzees, gorillas, Komodo dragon, zebras, aquarium, elephant and butterfly house. The zoo was one of the first in Europe in the late 19th century and has worked to improve animal and visitor conditions.
Nearby, visitors can find the Budapest Circus (36 1 343-8300) featuring international festivals and events. Opened in 1891, it was the first and only permanent circus in Europe. Acrobats, animal performances, and troupes entertain kids and adults.
Walk down Andrassy ut to Budapest Puppet Theater (36 1 321-5200, I. Andrássy út 69). Although the shows are performed in Hungarian, English-speaking kids will understand the universal language of storytelling. Versions of Cinderella, Peter and the Wolf will be familiar to follow, while local performances of Misi Mókus, Marcipán cica, and János Vitéz, are easy enough to follow. Hungarian school children frequent the theater on field trips, so this is a great opportunity for your own kids to see how their peers interact in other cultures. The theater also houses a collection of marionettes on display.
For more theater options, the Kolibri Puppet Theater (36-1/353-4633, VI. Jókai tér 10) is also a popular choice for kids.
Further down Andrassy ut you will find the Opera House (36 1 331-2550, Andrássy út 22). While the daily tours are a dazzling example of Hungarian architecture and history, kids would probably prefer the children’s opera programs offered on varying weekends. Farther down the street, visitors will find The House of Terror. Only suitable for adults or older children with an understanding of the horrors of the Nazi communist and regimes, this museum depicts the hardships and terror Hungary faced. It’s truly an intense experience. The museum was actually the building of the secret police, where locals were interrogated, tortured and killed, during both regimes. The museum serves to educate, and acts as a memorial to those who suffered, providing detailed information about Budapest’s fight against fascism and communism.
Pest is also home to many shopping halls and flea markets. The Central Market Hall (36 1 217-6070; F?vám tér, Pest end of Liberty Bridge) is the perfect stop for families looking for souvenirs to bring home. Located in a three-story building, the vendors at the market sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, fried sausages, black pudding and and other local treats, to Hungarian arts and crafts. The square just off the market is littered with tourist stands, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and boutiques.
The Ecseri Flea Market (36 1 280-8840), the perfect place for kids who love odd trinkets. Objects on sale include old toys, antiques and even Communist memorabilia. The market is very large, so paretns should keep kids close by and watch them carefully.
Beyond Budapest
Take the kids to “Happy Park” or Vidám Park (36-1/363-8310) for a ride on a 100-year old Ferris Wheel and wooden merry-go-round. Constructed almost entirely of wood, a recent renovation has meticulously restored the rides. It’s a perfect spot to give the kids a break from culture and it is surprisingly affordable. If you have toddlers, go next door to Kis Vidám Park, an amusement park especially designed with the littlest ones in mind.
A trip to Budapest with the kids isn’t complete without a stop to the Children’s Railroad (36 1 269-5242 ). Under adult supervision, Hungarian school children, ages 10 to 14, help operate the old railcars, steam carts, turntables, and horse trams. Built in the late 1940’s, the scenic trip through Buda Hills features young engineers in miniaturized versions of the Hungarian State Railway uniforms. The railroad was formerly run by the Young Pioneers of the Communist Party, however, today, it has no political affiliation.
To see some of the outskirts of Budapest, take a trip out to Memento Park (36 1 424-7500, v, Balatoni road – Szabadkai street), housing a collection of communist era statues. These looming figures featuring common workers, Lenin, and Stalin lie in an enormous circle in a suburb outside of Budapest. After the fall of communism, locals considered destroying the statues but ultimately decided to preserve the history of their events on the outskirts of the city.
For a less sobering look at this area, take the family to Margaret Island, a lush park with landscaped lawns, room to play, a small zoo, water park, playgrounds, eateries, and more. Cars aren’t allowed on the expansive pathways, but you can get around by public bus or special pedal carriages called Bringóhintó (36 1 329-2746), or bringo. These special bike-cars come in all sizes for entire families, groups, couples, and child-sized models. Children as young as 3 can ride in their own miniature bringo models, and older kids can easily ride around the island in their own adult models. The friendly, English-speaking staff can suggest which bringo is best for families and also sells drinks and snacks.
Details, Details
To save on area attractions, pick up a Budapest Card, a wonderful way to save money while sightseeing around the city. Valid for one adult and one child up to 14-years-old, it offers hundreds of services including unlimited travel on public transportation, free or discounted entry to 60 museums, discounts at restaurants, thermal baths, shops, and more. If you’re planning to take family photos, it’s worth noting that many of the museums require you to buy a special ticket to do so during your visit. Make sure you inquire about their policies at the admission desk.
For a list of other perks families can get with the Budapest Card and more information on family attractions, visit the Budapest’s Tourism Office (36-1/322-4098 ). To learn more about events happening around Budapest, visit the Budapest Festival Center. For more information about Hungary, visit www.hungarytourism.hu.
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On January 15, 2015, Google announced that it would stop selling the Google Glass product to consumers — who became its “Explorers” — while it makes more improvements to the technology and hardware. Simultaneously, the product will move from its test phase at Google X and become its own department within the giant technology company.
For complete details, please see this story: Google Glass Sales Halted.
This is a great summary of emerging family travel trends in 2015. I am very excited to see ecotourism evolving to include the youngest travelers as well as multi-gen travelers. Very interesting to see uber attempt to dig into the family market. As for all-inclusive hotels, after years of resisiting, I am finally a convert. My kids have always loved them and now their parents finally see the ease and economy of the pay-one-price concept. Happy Travels in 2015!
great feedback on what we’re seeing for 2015; agree that ecotourism has become so mainstream that it’s time all ages and all abilities (including those with disabilities) are included in nature-focused travel.
And yes, disruptive technologies like uber and airbnb are usually started by young people and grow by appealing to young travelers, but as we all know, they too will settle down and have kids and then look at new ways to make their services more “family-friendly.” So that’s an area where we see tremendous growth potential and hope for fresh ideas.
excited about what’s coming in 2015! Thanks for your comments.
I’m in, would love to win a stay at the Camelback water park in Pennsylvania. Close to my NJ home and sounds like a fun snowy or rainy day break with my boys. Sign me up!
After returning from a vacation with her daughter, C.S. shared this review of the Dreams Punta Cana resort in the Dominican Republic.
“Hi, we did not get sick at Dreams Punta Cana, stuck to bottled water, they were nice there not really attentive at concierge or lobby not knowledgeable and internet not working well, entertainment was okay and food just okay beach nice, tours not organized very well for swim with dolphins and no shopping for malls provided.
Yes the food was not great at all, hoping for better at gourmet restaurants, they always burnt the steak and not great the food, the world café was fine, buffet.
Kids club for my 8 year old she was bored, most of the kids were younger and not a lot to do for the 8 to 9 year olds, riviera maya dreams does a better job with kids club and takes them out to the real pool for kid games that is always nice.
I like Riviera Maya Mexico still a lot better.”
“The Singing Tower.” Bok Towers Gardens. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 July 2014.
The Vera Bradley outlet sale sounds like a midwestern version on Filene’s Running of the Brides! It sounds like a paisley lovers dream and a fun Mother/Daughter bonding event. Thanks for sharing!
How’s the weather up there now? Would it be warm enough to swim outdoors in late April, or still chilly? Seems like a fun spring break getaway since we only have a few days. Thanks for sharing.
I love Rocky Mountain National park! It’s great for all Colorado seasons. In the winter, when other parts of the park are closed down, they open up sledding areas. When I went, we shared the hill with just one other small group. A great afternoon for all ages!
In spite of all the cold weather we have been experiencing, this story makes me want to head up to Montreal for a frosty weekend of fun. The Montreal en Lumiere festival sounds like a winner, as does the hotel. Thank you for the terrific seasonal suggestions!
Skiing is such a wonderful way to experience Colorado’s beauty! There is such pride in that state and I love that so many resorts really cater to children too.
Eldora Mountain Resort wasn’t mentioned on this list, but on Saturday, March 8, they are hosting a scavenger hunt to raise money for Leave No Trace, an organization dedicated to teaching people to take care of the world around them, while also having fun. How awesome is that?! Can’t wait to hear more about it.
This is an excellent article. Well researched, thoughtful and motivating. I know as a parent right now considering a family cruise this Spring Break in March, kids drowning will be on my mind even though my son is on a swim team and swims two miles five nights a week for practice. Drowning can happen to anyone, any time, at any age. As a former swim instructor and lifeguard myself for many years to earn summr spending money and put myself through college, I know how water is dangerous — whether in a pool, lake, baeach or bathtub. But we all need reminding and education about what drowning looks like. And that is what you’ve done for me today. Thank you.
As a teen life guard, I saved a kid at our local pool who was “just floating.” It was a crowded pool on a sticky, hot Midwest day. A swimmer in the middle of the packed giant kids’ pool started yelling at me and pointing to the child “floating.” I’ll never forget doing mouth-to-mouth, his wide vacant eyes, his limp body, and then him catapulting upwards, spitting, sputtering to life. I tear up as I write this. What if he hadn’t lived? The guilt, the fright, the parents, the park district, the system…who to blame if the child had died? Would I be blamed for not seeing him inactive sooner? Would the pool be blamed for allowing too many people in? Would the park district be blamed for booking the swimming event? Did anything change after this incident? Yes. I got fired. And went to work for another pool heading up their swimming lessons program.
Thank you for writing this and your call to action for everyone to take responsibility for children around water at all hours of the day and night. Your “unthinkable” article has given us all much to think about.
Would be a fun vacation if you could really save money by doing it too!
What an adventure, I would love to do embark on a journey like this with my teens. The flora and fauna seem incredible, the guides professional. Thank you for sharing!
We’ve heard the Boeing factory tour is really interesting – wondering now if there any exhibits or parts areas that relate to the new Dreamliner. Would love to see one up close, especially being assembled after all the battery snafus.
Wish we all could have been there, Morocco looks fabulous and during the winter it would be a very productive coder’s retreat.
Congratulations to ALL of the students who entered in the FTF Writing Scholarship contest :3 Of course a big "congrats" should be merited to our winners, but I think every student who entered deserves a pat on the back–hopefully they'll be inspired to continue writing, too!
This sounds like a great resort for my all-inlusive loving teen children, who have a " bigger is better" attitude. I love that it is so close to the Cancun Airport, so you can get right to the fun as soon as you land.
I love the idea that guests at the hotel can "assemble" their own favorite meals from a variety of healthy offerings. Sounds like a great idea. If only I had time to cook so many different options every night at home!
This looks like a fascinating experience to remember and to go too! I have always wanted to go to Dubai and going there is a vacation never to forget!
Enjoy
One of the best states to come visit!
You make me want to go there and spend weeks on end, reconnecting with nature and making friends. And blobbing too. Thanks for sharing this.
Cincinnati, Ohio. Just another city in the Mid-West, right? Wrong. Cincinnati is one of the greatest cities in Ohio. With our stunning river front view, our bustling downtown, and the newly gentrified Over-the-Rhine, what else could we have in store?
For starters, Cincinnati has the 7th best zoo in the nation.Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great location for exploration and learning. People of all ages can appreciate the wide variety of animals found in the Zoo. Not only are the animals astounding, but guests get the chance for a hands on experience with many of the animals. For example, in Giraffe Ridge, guests can purchase a snack for the Giraffes and then feed them over the balcony. These moments will be remembered and cherished for the rest of a person's life.
Another great accessory Cincinnati has is the new, urban planned area called "The Banks. The Banks features apartments on the second floor of the buildings and restaurants and music venues on the first floor. This is a great area for younger couples to hang out at night.
Findlay Market is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or weekend. Findlay Market is the oldest public market in the state of Ohio. The market is open every day but Monday and is one of the best places to find locally and organically grown foods. Another great feature about Findlay Market is that the area surrounding the market is newly gentrified, meaning that it has been refurbished. This makes the area even more desirable.
The Newport Aquarium</a>is not located in the city of Cincinnati itself but it is an awesome place for family fun. Newport, Kentucky is only a 10 minute drive from downtown Cincinnati and has other amenities. Other places to visit while in Newport would be Dewey's Pizza, Brothers, Brio, and the Haufbrau House. All these restaurants give a different essence to the name "Cincinnati". Dewey's is a local pizza joint that runs the gamut in available options. Clever names and quick service make for a great time. Brothers and Brio are Italian restaurants that serve authentic Italian cuisine (Brothers is the less expensive option). The Haufbrau House is a German Bier Garten style restaurant that offers a large selection of beers and sandwiches. Along with normal options, the HaufBrau House also provides authentic German food. After you eat, the chicken dance is played, giving patrons the opportunity to dance on the table tops.
Other Cincinnati food traditions are Goetta and Skyline. When German immigrants came over to America, they settled along the Ohio River, then called the "Rhine". The Germans created a meat similar to sausage called Goetta. Goetta consists of ground pork or beef, oats, and a variety of spices. This specific meat can only be found in Cincinnati and occasionally there are large festivals for Goetta and German heritage. On the other hand Skyline is chili, created by Greek immigrants. The name "Skyline" originates from the owner believing that the Cincinnati skyline was the most beautiful he had ever seen. Skyline chili has a unique flavor due to the large amount of chocolate used in the chili.
Come one come all! Memphis is the breeding grounds to fun and adventure!
I truly love my City of Houston. Though I don't know where my education will take me, Houston will always be my home.
Austin is a great place to live, love, and visit. It has wonderful sites, people, and things to do. Everybody should visit Austin.
Say what you will. An open mind is insightful.
Thank you for this spot-on mini-review of Greve and Panzano, two of the most scenic and charming towns in Chianti. Daniel Ferro's summer music program only adds to the area's beauty, with music in the piazza to entertain locals and visitors alike. The rental property sounds like an excellent choice for families who choose to vacation in and explore the area. Thanks for sharing!
Ames, Iowa provides many opportunities to experience American culture and become immersed in American history. Since the mid 1800s, Ames has become a booming college town. Culture has had lots of time to flourish in this time, and evidence of the age of this town can be found everywhere. Tourists coming to Ames can also feel safe and enjoy Ames' attractions without fear of crime. Gun fights in Ames are practically unheard of, and the friendly people never hesitate to wave, even at newcomers to the area. Any tourist can appreciate the age and personality of Ames, as well as its safety.
To experience the culture in Ames, tourists must visit Stephen's Auditorium on Iowa State University's campus. This theater hosts a variety of concerts, plays, musicals, and other theatrical performances. Comfortable seating and awesome acoustics make this location a worthy contender for a relaxing night out. Big acts such as Bill Nye the Science Guy and the band Needtobreathe have to known to reserve this venue so one feels included in a special and popular event, but the space does not have an overwhelming size, so overcrowding and overheating will not deduct from the experience. Stephen's Auditorium will help in discovering the culture of Ames.
Tourists wishing to discover some of Ames' culture would greatly benefit from attending Ames' Farmer's Market on Saturdays on Main Street. Vendors have local and homegrown produce, meat, eggs, pastries, jewelry, art and many other items for sale that offer a taste of Iowan culture. Musicians often perform for shoppers, so they can be entertained while shopping. Ames' Farmer's Market provides an excellent opportunity to experience the culture of Ames and Iowa.
Evidence of Ames' history can be found in a visit to Iowa State University's campus. Founded in 1858, Iowa State University was the sight where George Washington Carver decided to do much of his botany research. Visitors to the college will see evidence of the age of this college in the buildings from this era that still exist. Iowa State University also housed the master minds who created the first computer. Tourists to Ames can take a trip to Durham Center in Iowa State and view the replica of this first computer. Main Street offers a taste of history also. The buildings in this area of Ames give a taste of what architecture looked like back in the early 20th century. A mural on Main Street depicts some of the founders of Ames. History holds great importance in Ames, and tourists can experience this without too much trouble.
To curb tourist's hunger, Ames offers many excellent places for dining. No tourist should visit Ames without eating at Hickory Park. This restaurant is famous not only for its deliciously moist chicken but also its tangy barbecue sandwiches. After the main meal, enjoy sweet and creamy ice cream. Dublin Bay offers wonderful Irish cuisine for tourists to enjoy. Try the moist Shepherd's Pie with perfectly salted fries for contentment. For fans of Mexican food, El Azteca guarantees friendly service, free chips, and delectably flavorful food. Many restaurants with amiable service and food that delights the taste buds are available for hungry tourists.
Though a relatively small town, Ames offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and culture of not only Ames, but the state of Iowa without fear of crime. Numerous attractions exist for this purpose. Visitors can also talk to the mayor of Ames, Ann Campbell, about the culture of history of Ames. City council members happily will answer questions from tourists. Tourists will not be sorry for visiting this town.
Northern Nevada never stops to amaze.
Sunday River has been on my radar for a potential family ski trip for quite a while. This story is so loaded with good information, it seems like it is worth the extra time spent in the car to ski at such an excellent family resort. Thanks!
Wow, this sounds likea great merging of chocolate and history, two of my favorite subjects.
I am looking forward to experiencing this for myself, thank you for the informative post.
I love this post so much! I hope I will come here one day!
This is a terrific article that I am so glad to have read. I didn't know there was a car-free way to appreciate the beauty of the Grand Canyon. Sounds like a fun, scenic and eco-friendly option.
Your essay moved me to tears. I am also a finalist in the scholarship and I wrote about visiting Poland’s concentration camps. I would love your opinion on my essay.
I wrote this essay hoping to bring people closer to understanding, as close to understanding as we can get. I want to share an experience that had an impact on me. This trip truly changed me, and what I want do with my life. I suggest if you have the means or are able to visit Poland or go on March of the Living. I know there are teen and family trips with BBYO.
Thank you so much for what you said. I truly appreciate what you said. I also visited the picture of your family. Your family is beautiful and I am so glad that they were able to make it through such a devastating time.
I loved reading about your romantic return to what sounds like a beatiful and vibrant island. Thanks for sharing some of its treasures.
This is a great story, thank you for sharing the glories of Octoberfest in lesser known Nerumberg. My mouth was atering reading about all of the regional delicacies that accompany the beer!
Oh goodness, this is so sad! Thanks for sharing all of this information, a lot of these things I did not know until just now. We're taught about the Holocaust at school, but I'm sure that there is nothing like actually being at a concentration camp to understand how it actually was. Thanks for sharing.
wow! This sounds like such a wonderful experience. I'm sure it was very enlightening, and it really makes me happy to read that last paragraph. I think it's beautiful that you see things that way, and I hope to some day personally come to that realization through my own experiences. Thanks so much for sharing this.
Hi Debbie,
You will want he Medical Authorization Form from each child's parents with a photocopy of their insurance card.
Then you can use the last form which is for group tours, school outings etc. It is fine for domestic travel, Include travel info for each child so that parents assign you guardianship for certain period of time only.
Get these forms notarized. Make several photocopies in case an adventure tour operator wants to keep one. Or, if you all travel on same flights, get one long form, like a petition, and be sure both of each child's parents or guardians sign it.
You should be fine with it. Does the hotel know? Many states say it is illegal for a minor to occupy a room without an adult present. You may need connecting rooms guaranteed.
Enjoy the trip and write about what you did!
JaguarZ writes to the Admin with a very good question:
I will be traveling to Hawaii, originating on the eastcoast, with 4 minors (only 1 is my child) – they will all be 17 at the time of travel. I need to be able to "act as their guardian" — for example, sign waiver forms for activities, seek medical coverage if necessary.
I found a form or two on the site, but they seem geared toward international travel and do not seem to include the ability to "sign the waiver forms" I mention above. Any suggestions? I realize I may be able to get some of these forms signed before we leave, BUT for those activities they decide on when we are there — H E L P!
Thank you so much for your anticipated support
Debbie
This is really incredible. It is a dream of mine to visit Alaska, and I hope that if I ever do get to go, that I can experience what you did. My dad and I are avid kayakers, so it was somewhat relatable, although I doubt that Miami waters are NEARLY as cool (haha) as those in Alaska.This truly sounds like the trip of a lifetime.
I wanted to add that I loved the way you described everything, it was so beautiful and real.
Aw, I'm so sorry that happened to your dad but I'm glad something good came out of it. My family was actually planning on going to Gatlinburg next summer but we're all way too chicken to do this white water rafting haha. Thanks for sharing this.
Thank you for sharing this! That sounds like a truly beautiful experience. I love the bit about never underestimating yourself the most, very true.
*2009 not 2008
This is about my trip to South Dakota.
This trip was indeed and enriching expreience.
If you copy and paste the URL at the bottom of the post into your browser, it will take you to a video clip of the event, and if you skip to the last 12 seconds of the video you will see myself and one of my good friends sprinting in to the finish. We ended up tieing for 9th place.