10 Reasons Why Malta Should Be on Your Bucket List

Looking for your next bucket-list destination? Malta might be tiny, but this Mediterranean gem packs a serious punch when it comes to history, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Malta has something for everyone. Here are 10 Reasons Why Malta Should Be on Your Bucket List:

The Stunning Crystal Lagoon

Crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs make the Crystal Lagoon one of Malta’s most breathtaking spots. Swim, snorkel, or simply relax on a boat and enjoy the serene beauty of this iconic destination. The lagoon’s calm, shallow waters are perfect for families and first-time snorkelers. Many people go to Blue Lagoon, but I think it is too loud and there are way too many people.

Valletta, the Sun-Drenched Capital

Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of Baroque architecture and historical landmarks. Highlights include St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its gilded interiors and Caravaggio paintings, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offering panoramic harbor views, and vibrant cafes perfect for people-watching.

Mdina, the Silent City

February 9, 2026 mytravelingkids.com

Anegada, BVI

Photo Credit: BVI Tourism

Anegada, BVI

Anegada feels completely different from the rest of the British Virgin Islands — flat, wild, and surrounded by endless beaches. It’s a favorite for families who want something unique and adventurous.

Where Is Anegada & Why It’s Different

Unlike the volcanic islands of the BVI, Anegada is a coral atoll. The water here is unbelievably clear, and the island feels remote in the best way possible.

Moorings at Anegada: First Come, First Serve

Anegada uses first come, first serve moorings, with no reservations available.

They can fill up quickly due to limited options

Arriving early is strongly recommended

Exploring Anegada by Mini Moke

Renting mini mokes is the best way to explore the island. You will love driving around and hopping between beaches. It is such a unique way to see the beauty of the island. My girls picked this moke for my husband to drive 😊

What did we do on our day exploring Anegada?

January 19, 2026 mytravelingkids.com

Virgin Gorda, BVI

Virgin Gorda is home to one of the most famous attractions in the Caribbean — The Baths — and is an absolute must-stop on any BVI family sailing itinerary. This island combines natural adventure with great dining and comfortable marina options.

Where Is Virgin Gorda & What Makes It Special

Virgin Gorda is the third-largest island in the British Virgin Islands and offers a mix of dramatic landscapes and developed marinas. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and creature comforts.

Moorings at Virgin Gorda: A Mix of Options

Virgin Gorda offers both reservable and first come, first serve options, depending on where you stay:

The Baths (Day Use):
NPT moorings are first come, first serve and typically day-use only.

Bitter End Yacht Club:
Offers reservable slips and moorings, making it a great overnight stop.

North Sound area:
Multiple marinas with reservable options.

Having reservation options here is a big plus for families traveling during peak season.

How do you get to The Baths?

January 16, 2026 mytravelingkids.com

Cooper Island, BVI

Photo Credit: Trip Advisor

Cooper Island, BVI

Cooper Island is one of the most relaxing and family-friendly stops on a British Virgin Islands catamaran itinerary. Located just east of Tortola, this small island is known for calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and the eco-conscious Cooper Island Beach Club, which becomes the social heart of the anchorage.

Where Is Cooper Island & Why Sailors Love It

Cooper Island sits near the southeastern edge of the BVI and is an easy sail from Norman Island or The Baths. The island feels quieter and more laid-back than some of the busier stops, which makes it ideal for families with teens who want downtime without being bored. Everything here is close together — snorkel spots, the beach club, and moorings — so it’s an easy place to settle in and relax.

Moorings at Cooper Island: First Come, First Serve

Cooper Island uses National Parks Trust (NPT) moorings, and they are first come, first serve with no reservations available.

The mooring field is large but fills up quickly during peak season.

Arriving by early afternoon is recommended, especially during holidays.

This setup makes Cooper Island approachable for families and newer sailors.

Snorkeling & Swimming Off the Boat

One of the best parts of Cooper Island is how easy it is to enjoy the water. Teens can swim and snorkel right off the back of the catamaran, often spotting fish and rays close to the boat.

Cooper Island Beach Club: Rum Bar, Microbrewery & Dining

The Cooper Island Beach Club is a highlight of this stop. The rum bar features one of the largest rum selections in the Caribbean, while the microbrewery adds a fun, unexpected twist. Families love that the vibe is social but relaxed — teens can hang out by the beach while adults enjoy a drink.

January 15, 2026 mytravelingkids.com

Norman Island, BVI

Photo Credit: Pirates Bight

Norman Island, BVI

If you’re sailing the British Virgin Islands, Norman Island is almost always one of the first stops — and for good reason. It’s close to Tortola, packed with great snorkeling, and home to some of the most iconic spots in the BVI. For families traveling with teens, Norman Island strikes the perfect balance between adventure, history, and just plain fun.

Where Is Norman Island & Why It’s So Popular

Norman Island is located just south of Tortola and is often considered the gateway stop on a BVI sailing itinerary. Legend has it that this island helped inspire Treasure Island, and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why — hidden coves, dramatic rock formations, and clear turquoise water everywhere you look. The island itself is uninhabited, which gives it a wild, untouched feel, but the anchorages are lively and social, especially in the afternoons.

For first-time sailors and families, Norman Island is an easy and exciting introduction to island hopping in the British Virgin Islands.

Moorings at Norman Island: What You Need to Know

Norman Island has National Parks Trust (NPT) moorings, and they are first come, first serve so you cannot reserve them in advance.

January 13, 2026 mytravelingkids.com

Mercer Lab

Mercer Labs

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and looking for a unique experience that blends art and technology, Mercer Labs should be at the top of your list. Located in the Financial District, this innovative museum offers 15 immersive exhibition spaces that will captivate your senses and spark your imagination.

What to Expect at Mercer Labs

Mercer Labs redefines the traditional museum experience by offering interactive installations that engage visitors on multiple levels. Each room presents a distinct theme, utilizing cutting-edge technology to create immersive environments.

Many visitors describe their time at Mercer Labs as dreamlike, with each room offering a new and unexpected adventure. The combination of art and technology creates a surreal atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.

Here Were a Few of My Favorite Rooms

My favorite room is this huge room that comes alive as the walls are constantly changing in sync with the music.

You can sit on swings, beanbags, or a cozy spot on the floor.

October 16, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

Visiting The Color Factory in NYC

If you’re visiting New York City and looking for an immersive, experience that will add some serious color pop to your day, The Color Factory is a must-see! Located in SoHo, this interactive art museum takes you on a vibrant journey through a series of rooms designed to delight your senses with color, creativity, and fun surprises at every turn. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family, The Color Factory offers a unique and joyful experience you won’t forget.

What to Expect at The Color Factory NYC

The Color Factory is more than just an art exhibit—it’s a hands-on adventure through a world of color. Each room is designed with different themes and interactive elements, making it one of the best immersive art experiences in NYC. From a massive ball pit to mesmerizing light installations and multi-sensory exhibits, you’ll find plenty of photo-worthy moments around every corner.

Some highlights include:

Confetti Room – A playful space where you can dance around in a sea of colorful confetti.

Silent Dance Party

We had so much fun dancing around to the party we were hearing in our headphones as the colors changed under our feet!

Ball Pit

This was our favorite room! It was filled with fun balls and slides where you can soar in to the pool of balls. Falling back in to a giant blue ball pit that makes you feel like a kid again.

Interactive Exhibits

October 14, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

Guggenheim Museum

Guggenheim Museum in NYC

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and looking to soak up some culture, the Guggenheim Museum should be at the top of your list. This iconic museum on the Upper East Side of Manhattan is a masterpiece inside and out—literally. Whether you’re an art lover or just in it for the cool architecture, visiting the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is one of the best things to do in NYC.

Why the Guggenheim is Worth the Visit

Let’s be real—the building alone is worth the ride uptown. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Guggenheim is a spiraling wonder that feels like you’re walking through an art piece itself. Instead of rooms, you slowly spiral your way up (or down) the circular ramp while taking in world-class modern and contemporary art.

Contemporary Art

There were so many amazing pieces of contemporary art.

The Guggenheim doesn’t just show art—it presents it in a way that makes you feel like part of the experience.

October 9, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Visiting The Metropolitan Museum of Art

If you’re planning a trip to New York City, The Metropolitan Museum of Art—aka The Met—is an absolute must-see. As one of the most famous museums in the world, it’s packed with history, culture, and incredible artwork spanning over 5,000 years. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or just looking for an unforgettable NYC experience, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to The Met.

Why You Should Visit The Met

The Met isn’t just another art museum—it attracts millions of visitors every year. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to iconic European paintings and modern masterpieces, the museum has something for everyone. Plus, its stunning architecture and prime location on Fifth Avenue make it a highlight of any New York itinerary.

Here Are Some of My Favorite Spots

My favorite section of the museum is the Egyptian wing. It’s one of the museum’s most jaw-dropping areas, packed with towering statues, intricate hieroglyphs,

and even a real ancient temple—the Temple of Dendur—which is housed in a massive room with floor-to-ceiling windows and a reflecting pool.

You’ll wander past mummies, sarcophagi, and beautifully preserved artifacts that are thousands of years old.

October 7, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

The Shire Woodstock

Photo Credit: The Shire Woodstock Vermont

The Shire Woodstock

Woodstock, Vermont

If you’ve been dreaming about a getaway to Woodstock, Vermont, let me introduce you to a little gem called The Shire Woodstock. This charming riverside hotel is nestled right in the heart of one of New England’s most picturesque towns, and it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend escape, a romantic trip, or even a basecamp for exploring Vermont’s outdoorsy side. I recently stayed at The Shire on my solo 3-night Vermont trip. Let me tell you all about my stay.

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL ABOUT MY STAY!