First Class…Behind the Magic Curtain

I know I’ve said it before, but I have one of the sweetest husbands around.  Last February, on our way home from Europe he sat with the girls in coach for our 9-hour flight and gave his mom and I first class seats! We felt like queens up there and it was a trip home we will never forget.  If you’re like me, you may have wondered what it’s like to sit up there behind those magical curtains. Could it really be worth it? Here’s a peek at our first experience traveling in first class! (Remember that all planes are different, so experiences will vary.  This was our United flight from Switzerland to Boston.)

OUR SEATS…

The seats were probably one of the best things about our flight.  Our seats lowered into that dark area where your feet go so you could recline it as much as you wanted to, even making it completely flat.

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Hampton Inn Portland Downtown – Waterfront

Photo Credit: Hampton Inn Downtown Waterfront

You know one of my favorite places in the United States is Portland, Maine. Lighthouses, cobblestone streets, quaint boutiques and waterfront views make it the perfect destination for families. My girls have not traveled in over a year and we were thrilled to finally be escaping to this fabulous city.  When staying in Portland, location is key and I always stay in the Old Port, the historic waterfront district. The Hampton Inn Portland Downtown – Waterfront is a wonderful place to stay.

Read all about our stay…

Pineapple Ketch Sailboat, Kennebunkport

All aboard…

Your adventure starts when you arrive at the gorgeous Nonantum Resort

and head down to their docks towards the amazing 1976 Pineapple Ketch sailboat.

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Kennebunkport, Maine Itinerary: Day 3

Kennebunkport, Maine: Day #3

Day 3 of exploring Kennebunkport, Maine gets you out on the water, lobster rolls, and some fun on Ocean Avenue.  Take a peek at your Kennebunkport, Maine itinerary for day 3 Enjoy!

Grab a quick breakfast at the resort before heading out for the morning.

Ocean Walk

There is no better way to see the beauty of this part of the coast than a walk on Ocean Avenue.  Walking this route allows you to enjoy the dramatic views. The mansions will give you a peek at how the other-half lives and you can pick out which one you’d buy if you had a few extra million dollars lying around.

First stop is St. Ann’s Church. This beautiful church was built in 1887, and has been in continuous use as a summer chapel since that date.  It is one of the most charming churches I’ve been to in the United States.  It is located right on the coast and the views are breathtaking. The architecture of the church matches the beauty of its surroundings.  It looks as rugged as the coastline with its stone walls.

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Kennebunkport, Maine: Day 2

Kennebunkport, Maine: Day 2

After all the fun of day 1, it’s time to continue exploring all the beauty Kennebunkport, Maine has to offer.  Day 2…

Grab Some Breakfast

Head over to Mornings in Paris, and enjoy a pastry and a latte.

21 Western Ave

Take a Walk

First stop is an amazing place to go on a walk. The town of Kennebunkport, Maine, is a peaceful coastal town and Saint Anthony’s Franciscan Monastery is a wonderful way to begin your day.  The grounds are open to the public from sunrise to sunset and the friars welcome visitors. The grounds have two lovely outdoor chapels.

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Kennebunkport, Maine: Day 1

Kennebunkport, Maine: Day 1

Kennebunkport is one of my favorite coastal towns in Maine.  It is classy, yet welcoming, and the perfect destination for families.  It has it all… beaches, art galleries, lobster boats, and seafood restaurants.  Did I mention lobster?  Here is an itinerary for three perfect days in Kennebunkport!

Check into Your Hotel

The Nonantum Resort is one of the most beautiful resorts in Maine and the perfect destination for families, a girlfriends’ getaway, a couple’s romantic escape, or a solo trip.  Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or one filled with adventure, this is the resort to book.  Look at how gorgeous it is!

 

After you drop off your bags in your room, head down to the water, find a cozy Adirondack chair and watch the boats go by for a while.  You can feel your stress melting away!

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Freeport, Maine Itinerary: Day 2

After a wonderful night’s sleep, it is time to explore more of Freeport, Maine. Are you ready for day 2?

Freeport, Maine: Day 2

Grab Some Breakfast

You never know what to expect with breakfast, but at the Harraseeket Inn breakfast is no joke.  They have a huge selection of eggs, home fries, blueberry pancakes, yogurts, pastries, fresh fruit, and much more.  You must try their granola! It was the perfect way to start the day.

Get Ready to Shop

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Freeport, Maine Itinerary: Day 1

Freeport, Maine: Day 1

One of my favorite destinations in Maine is the coastal town of Freeport.  It oozes New England charm and has everything I could want in a vacation…the ocean, restaurants, boutiques, farms, and lots of outdoor activities. This itinerary can easily be used for a family trip, girls’ weekend, or a romantic escape.

Check into Your Hotel

When staying in Freeport, there is only one place I stay…The Harraseeket Inn.  It has cozy rooms, a delicious on-site restaurant, and is the perfect location to call your home.  However, what keeps me coming back to the inn is the staff.  They are attentive without being invasive and they welcome you to the inn like it is their home. Drop your bags in your room and take a quick peek around the inn.

(Read my full review of the inn.)

162 Main Street. Freeport, Maine 04032

Grab Some Coffee

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To-Do List for a Trip

suitcase

If you know me then you know I LOVE LISTS!! I get so nervous about forgetting things that a list helps calm my anxiety.  Getting ready for a trip can be really stressful because there are so many little things to remember.  I thought I would share with you my to-do list for a trip …it’s a lifesaver!

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25 Family Activities You’ll All Enjoy

One of the most valuable lessons my family learned throughout the last year is the importance of spending time with your family. As we hunkered down in the house, we had to come up with lots of ideas to keep our sanity. We cherished the time we had together and spend many nights laughing and having fun. I’d like to thank all of the wonderful companies that helped us find ways to connect with each other.

I am thrilled to be traveling again…safely, still wearing masks, and practicing distance. Before I get back to writing about travel, I wanted to give you one final roundup of some of the fun things we’ve done since so many people ask me for suggestions of family activities to do at home. Don’t worry…if I find any more I’ll definitely let you know. Thanks for all of the support during this last year and I can’t wait to finally be packing our bags!!

#wewilltravelagain

SCIENCE ACTIVITIES:

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