20 Things Tourists Should NEVER Do in NYC

Thinking about visiting the Big Apple? New York City is one of the most exciting places in the world, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know the ropes. Avoiding these common tourist mistakes will help you experience the city like a savvy local and make your trip way more enjoyable. Here’s a helpful list of 20 things Tourists Should NEVER Do in NYC.

Don’t Stop in the Middle of the Sidewalk

New York sidewalks are like highways, and stopping suddenly to check your phone or take a selfie is a big no-no. Move to the side so you don’t block the flow of foot traffic.

Don’t Stand on the Left Side of the Subway Escalator

In NYC, standing still belongs on the right side of the escalator. The left side is for people walking up or down. Step to the right side so people have a place to pass you.

Don’t Only Go to Times Square

Sure, Times Square is iconic, but it’s also overpriced and crowded. Don’t make it your only stop. Explore different neighborhoods for authentic NYC experiences. Try visiting a rooftop bar for great skyline views or check out local markets like Chelsea Market.

Don’t Skip Walking

You might be tempted to Uber everywhere, but NYC is a walking city. Some of the best sights and hidden gems are discovered on foot. Plus, it’s often faster than driving. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a refillable water bottle. Also, use Google Maps or Citymapper for walking directions.

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May 12, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

10 Perks of Delta Sky Lounge

Photo Credit: Delta Airlines

10 Perks of Delta Sky Lounge

If you travel often, you know how exhausting airports can be—crowded terminals, uncomfortable seats, and overpriced food. But what if I told you there’s a way to upgrade your airport experience before even boarding your flight? Enter the Delta Sky Lounge, an oasis of comfort, convenience, and premium perks that will transform how you travel. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, here are 10 perks of Delta Sky Lounge you can add to your airport routine.

Escape the Chaos of the Terminal

Let’s face it—airports can be overwhelming. A Delta Sky Club provides a peaceful retreat away from noisy announcements and packed waiting areas. Enjoy a quiet and comfortable space to relax before your flight. It is much more relaxing than sitting at a gate and people are more respectful about being quiet.

Complimentary Food

Say goodbye to overpriced airport snacks! Delta Sky Lounges offer complimentary food, snacks, and beverages. We’re not talking about soggy sandwiches in plastic containers. The lounge includes fresh salads, fruit, cheese, soup, hot entrees, and even desserts. You can enjoy a meal without spending extra.

Photo Credit: Delta Airlines

Premium Wi-Fi and Workspaces

Need to get some work done before takeoff? The Sky Lounge offers high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, and comfortable seating so you can catch up on emails or stream your favorite show without interruption.

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April 16, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

Old Town Trolley St Augustine

Photo Credit: Old Town Trolley

Old Town Trolley

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, is a treasure trove of history, charm, and unique experiences. From centuries-old landmarks to vibrant cultural spots, this coastal gem offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a foodie, St. Augustine will captivate you with its rich stories, stunning architecture, and laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect destination to step back in time, indulge in local flavors, and create unforgettable memories. Old Town Trolley St Augustine is the perfect way to experience this beautiful town.

Follow along with me on my 2 days

I was lucky to have 2 days to see so many fun attractions in this beautiful town. There is so much to see, so I decided to be right at Old Town Trolley when it opened at 9:00 am. Exploring St. Augustine is a breeze with the Old Town Trolley and is the perfect way to experience all the charm and history of the nation’s oldest city. With convenient stops at iconic landmarks, the trolley makes it easy to explore each destination at your own pace. Your driver is not only getting you to each spot, are also your knowledgeable tour guides. If you want to get off and explore at a stop you can do so, or you can choose to remain on the tour and continue learning about the town. Here is what I did at my favorite stops:

Old Jail

Step back in time and learn about law enforcement history at this historic jailhouse. Guided tours feature fascinating stories about its past, complete with eerie tales of the inmates who once lived there. The preserved cells and artifacts give visitors a chilling glimpse into 19th-century justice. Some facts that will stick with you is that death row cells face the galley’s where prisoners are hung, so they can see their fate. It is also sad to see the names carved in the walls of the death row cells. You will get chills as you walk in to the cells after hearing the stories.

Oldest Store Museum

As you step through the doors, you’ll be transported to a time when steam-driven tractors were the latest innovation and health elixirs promised miraculous cures. The museum’s extensive collection includes vintage farm equipment, corsets, tonics, and even a goat-powered washing machine. The costumed guides don’t just show you these items; they demonstrate them, providing a hands-on understanding of early 20th-century life.

Potter’s Wax Museum

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February 12, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation

Planning for a vacation can be as exciting as the trip itself, but the day before departure is crucial to set yourself up for smooth sailing. There are some essential tasks you need to complete so you can jet off stress-free and make the most of your getaway. Here are 15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation:

Double-Check Your Travel Documents

Ensure your passport, ID, and travel tickets are packed and up-to-date. Print physical copies even if you’ve gone digital—a backup never hurts. If you’re traveling internationally, confirm visa requirements and entry restrictions. I always email myself a copy of important documents just in case they get lost while we’re traveling.

Confirm Your Reservations

Revisit all your bookings, from flights and hotels to rental cars and excursions. Double-check dates, times, and addresses. This ensures everything is set and helps avoid any last-minute surprises when you arrive. I also write down departure locations for all tours I’m taking.

Charge Your Electronics and Pack Chargers

Fully charge your phone, tablet, laptop, and power bank. Organize your chargers, adapters, and accessories in a dedicated pouch. A dead device while traveling can disrupt your plans—stay powered up and ready.

Prepare Your Home for Your Absence

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February 10, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

Surviving Airport Security with Kids

We’ve all seen those parents that, after going through airport security with kids, look like they’ve walked through a hurricane. Their hair is disheveled, belt half off, arms full of clothes, and a crying kiddo following behind them. Ok…so most of us have BEEN those people and it’s not fun at all. All of this craziness can usually be avoided with a bit of planning.

Here are 10 tips for surviving airport security with kids:

HAVE THE TALK

Um…no…not THAT talk. Talk to your kiddos about what to expect when going through security. Better yet…show them. Grab a carry-on bag, pretend your kitchen table is the security area, and walk them through exactly what happens. Show them they may need to take off their shoes (depending on where you’re traveling) and that they’ll have to let go of Teddy for a few minutes as he takes a fun ride through a magic machine. Get them involved with the simulation so they feel prepared.

LIQUIDS

It floors me that people are still bringing full size bottles through airport security. An easy way to remember the rule is 3-1-1: 3.4 oz bottles or less for all liquids, gels, and aerosols; placed in a 1-quart clear plastic bag; per 1 person. Security could care less how much your shampoo costs. If it is over 3.4 oz they will take it and it will hold up the line. (I learned the hard way that DRY shampoo is actually a liquid…no matter how much I begged.)

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February 3, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

How to Get Over Jetlag

Jetlag can be a nuisance when you’re chasing new adventures, but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Whether you’re hopping time zones for business or pleasure, here’s how to get over jetlag quickly and get back to enjoying the journey.

Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Before You Travel

One of the best ways to minimize jetlag is to start adjusting your internal clock before your trip. If you’re traveling east, go to bed an hour earlier each night for a few days. If you’re heading west, stay up a bit later. This gradual shift helps your body acclimate to the new time zone. Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to simulate nighttime when your new destination’s clock says it’s time to sleep.

Stay Hydrated

Flying dehydrates you, and dehydration makes jetlag worse. Keep a water bottle handy and sip regularly—especially on long-haul flights. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can mess with your sleep and leave you feeling more drained. Hydration is key to keeping your body’s rhythms in check, so make drinking water a priority before, during, and after your flight.

Sync With the Local Time Zone ASAP

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January 8, 2025 mytravelingkids.com

15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation

Traveling is an adventure, but those expenses can add up fast. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. Here are 15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation:

Travel Off-Season

One of the simplest ways to save on vacation costs is to travel during the off-season. Peak travel times, like summer or holidays, come with inflated prices for flights, hotels, and attractions. Choose a less popular time of year to visit your destination and you’ll find lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience. Do some research and pick the shoulder season when the weather is still good, but costs are significantly lower.

Book Flights in Advance

Booking your flight early is one of the easiest ways to snag a better deal. Generally, the best time to book is between one to three months ahead for domestic trips and three to six months for international travel. Be flexible with your travel dates and use tools like flight comparison websites and apps to monitor prices and set alerts for price drops. Plus, flying mid-week rather than on weekends can often save you money.

Use Public Transportation

Instead of hailing cabs or using rideshare apps, take advantage of public transportation whenever possible. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a great way to see the city from a local’s perspective. One of my favorite memories of Portugal when I was younger was riding the bus and being immersed in the culture. It’s a great way to practice the language. Most cities offer day passes or multi-ride tickets that save you even more. If you’re traveling in Europe, look into using intercity trains and bus services which are often more cost-effective than flights.

Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation

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May 22, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

15 Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Traveling solo can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind at all times. About a month before my solo trip to Puerto Rico I began to get really anxious. We’re talking, “What the heck am I thinking? Should I cancel this trip?” Then I reminded myself that women do this every day and as long as I plan ahead, stay alert, and remain level-headed, I could do this. As a solo traveler, you are responsible for your own safety, and it’s important to take precautions to avoid any potential dangers. Here are 15 safety tips for solo travelers.

Research Your Destination

Before you leave, research your destination thoroughly. Look up any safety concerns and read about any recent incidents or crime reports. Are there areas you should avoid?

Stay in a Safe Area

Choose accommodation in a safe area, preferably with good reviews from other travelers. Avoid areas that are known for crime or that have a high rate of theft. Once I’ve decided on a hotel, I looked on blogs and TripAdvisor and emailed people with safety questions I had. As for the hotel, is there a 24-hour front desk? Is there a doorman or security on duty all night? I like to bring a door lock and alarm.

Avoid Walking Alone, Especially at Night

If possible, avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas that are unfamiliar to you. If you want to explore an area, take a peek HERE to find a reputable tour.

Use Trusted Transportation

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August 15, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

10 Tips for a Fun Day at an Amusement Park

Amusement parks can be a great way to spend the day as a family. With a little planning, you can have a stress-free day that everyone can enjoy. Here are 10 tips for a fun day at an amusement park:

CHECK OUT THE MAP

Before you go, look at the park map online. Decide if there are areas you all really want to do and if there are areas you can skip. Give the kids a say in the day.

NO PRESSURE

Kids will do scary rides when they are ready. Let them know there is no pressure for them to go on any rides they don’t feel comfortable with.

MINIMUM HEIGHT REQUIREMENT

Nothing is worse than having your kid wait in line only to find out they are an inch too short to ride. Save the tears and have them check the height requirement and measure them before they go.

Riding roller coasters at Storyland, NH

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March 15, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

10 Tips For Traveling to St. Lucia

Although St. Lucia is often thought of as a honeymoon destination, it is a wonderful island to bring kids. With a little planning, the entire family can spend a fun-filled vacation doing things that everyone can enjoy.

Here are 10 tips for traveling to St. Lucia:

Where do you fly in?

The best place to fly in is Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort (UVF)

CLICK HERE TO FIND AN AMAZING FLIGHT

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