A Mother/Teen Daughter Travel Blog
If you are visiting Chicago and looking for an experience that is in a class of its own, a stay at the Four Seasons Chicago is a must. Every few months Brooke and I have a tradition of spending a mother-daughter weekend in Chicago, a thirty minute train ride from our home, but believe us this is no mere staycation–staying at the Four Seasons is the most rejuvenating getaway a girl could possibly dream of–a luxurious dream hotel for pampering both teen and mom!
After reading several outstanding reviews, we decided to book a snorkeling excursion with Captain Marvin’s Stingray City Tours. A shuttle picked us up from the Ritz Carlton around 8:30 am and after a five minute drive, we arrived at the marina and were greeted by the friendliest crew, Eric and Michael, as we boarded a beautiful sailboat. We headed to the spacious upper deck to make the most of the stunning Caribbean views as we set sail for adventure.
Having visited Cancun several times in the past, we decided it was time to venture away from the resort and go on an adventurous excursion. We had previously visited ruins and swam with dolphins in Cozumel, so we decided to try something different. We signed up for a three-in-one excursion with Aventuras Mayas: ATV rides through the jungle, ziplining and snorkeling in the Cenotes. We were a bit hesitant about sacrificing a day away from our beautiful resort and actually considered cancelling this trip. Without question, we are so grateful we did not.
When I began researching hotels in Austria, I happened upon a Medieval castle built in the 1300’s for a Bavarian king. I knew at that moment the search was over–what an unforgettable experience it would be to spend a week in a royal residency. Schloss Grubhof, as the castle is named, is located in the small town of Sankt Martin Bei Lofer. It has been completely renovated and updated with modern amenities, yet the integrity of the castle remains: soft poster beds, marble columns, crystal chandeliers, 16 foot ceilings with artistic frescoes, oriental rugs, gilt moldings and antique decor. Read more
We arrived at Hotel Mueller for a two-night stay at the magical destination at the end of the Romantic Road. I had booked the Castle Package at the hotel and it did not disappoint. Upon arrival, we were lead into an bright and airy octagonal dining room with a majestic view of Neuschwanstein Castle. We were in awe! 
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This past spring we spent a glorious week at Sunset Royal Beach Resort in Cancun, Mexico. This was our fourth stay at this resort and believe us, it did not disappoint. For children, teens and adults, there is something for everyone. From overlooking the Caribbean sea while lounging in the hotel room jacuzzi, attending morning yoga in the palm-frond pavilion, receiving full body massages to the sound of crashing waves, playing pool volleyball and basketball, water aerobics, scavenger hunts, painting ceramics, enjoying cooking classes, long naps on the expansive pristine beach, afternoon poolside bingo, or enjoying limitless cocktails (Brooke did not partake in that activity), this all-inclusive resort has a myriad of activities to meet the needs of all ages. Read more
While planning our trip to Venice, a friend suggested we take a day or two and visit Sirmione on Lake Garda. I was hesitant in foregoing any of our Venetian explorations, doubting anything could compare to the beautiful city of canals, but being born and raised in Italy, I trusted my friend’s judgement–besides, she completely persuaded Brooke with stories of the fairy tale castle nestled in the glistening water of Lake Garda–so how was I to refuse? Read more
Pedis-n-Passports 