Wildlife Parks and Springs

1. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

2. De Leon Springs

3. Weeki Wachee Springs

4. Wekiwa Springs State Park

5. Bioluminescent Kayaking at Cape Canaveral

6. Snorkeling at Devil’s Den

7. Leu Gardens

Museums & Attractions for the Whole Family

8. The Dali Museum

9. Kennedy Space Center

10. The Florida Aquarium

11. The Ringling Museum

12. Daytona International Speedway

13. Cassadaga

14. Gatorland

Historic Day Trips from Orlando

15. Flagler College

16. Bok Tower Gardens

17. Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum

18. The Fountain of Youth

19. St. Petersburg Sunken Gardens

20. Castillo de San Marcos

Best Beaches Surrounding Orlando

21. Cocoa Beach

22. Ormond Beach

23. Clearwater Beach

Courtesy mariakray, Shutterstock

24. New Smyrna

25. Vero Beach

This post can also be viewed on Google Web Stories as 25 Fun Day Trips from Orlando.

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1. Visit the Corning Museum of Glass

One of the best museums we’ve ever been to is in Corning, New York. The subject: Glass, including information and pieces to show how it has changed over thousands of years and how techniques and technology have changed over time.

It’s astonishing to see the stunning pieces artists have created that are on display here. They also hold demonstrations throughout the day, and you can sign up to make your piece at the Corning Museum of Glass too.

2. Go on a Seaplane Adventure

When you’re around many Finger Lakes, opportunities to go on the water are plentiful. But have you thought about what it would be like to land on the water from the air? Finger Lakes Seaplanes make it possible, and it’s one of the most fun things to do in Hammondsport.

Sign up for a flight aboard a small seaplane, which seats about four to five people. Take a journey above Keuka Lake, then land on it! The aerial views will be unique, and the entire experience will last about an hour.

3. Stay at a Historic Hotel

The Park Inn has been around since the 1830s. It’s in the center of Hammondsport and is a very charming and a great place to stay. Book one of the Inn’s suites quickly because there are only a handful!

4. Picnic in the Park Inn, Hammondsport Square

If the weather is nice, pack a picnic or get take out from a nearby restaurant for a picnic in the park in Hammondsport, just in front of the Park Inn. This square patch of land with fluffy green grass displays beautiful Cherry Blossoms in the spring. Its central gazebo is great for taking photos.

Bring a blanket to sit on the grass or find a seat on a park bench to enjoy your lunch.

5. Go Fall Leaf Peeping

The Finger Lakes is a gorgeous area for fall Leaf Peeping, as it’s called. Its cities are blanketed in attractive colors as the leaves change from green to oranges, reds, and yellows during autumn.

Depending on the weather, peak season could occur during September or October.

6. Go on a Glider Plane

Unlike a motorized seaplane or airplane you’d fly on a commercial flight, a glider is a mode of flying without a motor. Instead, a lead plane flies the glider up in the air, attached to a cable. And then, at a certain height, the cable is freed from the glider. That allows the plane to fly through the sky silently.

One of the most exciting things to do in the Finger Lakes is taking a glider at the National Soaring Museum in Chemung County, near Elmira.

Don’t worry about learning how to fly because you don’t pilot the plane! A Harris Hill Soaring Corporation member does that while you ride behind the pilot in your seat, enjoying it all.

7. Stay at a Waterfront Hotel

The Harbor Hotel in Watkins Glen is a charming waterfront hotel that is the perfect location for a romantic getaway or family overnight.

Its harbor view is filled with boats of all kinds. Inside, you’ll find spacious, clean rooms, a cozy lounge near the lobby, and several restaurant and bar options.

8. Take a Sunset Sail

Consider a sunset sail aboard True Love on Seneca Lake, especially if you’ll be at the Harbor Hotel in Watkins Glen. This historic sailboat accommodates multiple passengers.

Aboard, you’ll find they have beverages and snacks if you want to enhance your memorable sail around the lake during “golden hour” just before sunset into dusk.

9. Walk Main Street in Corning

Corning’s main avenue in their downtown area is a charming street to walk along. Grab an ice cream or go antique shopping between grabbing drinks or great meals at one of Main Street’s restaurants.

10. Spend Some Time at the Rockwell Museum

Corning’s Rockwell Museum isn’t named for the famous painter yet has plenty of renowned artists in it!

The Rockwell family started this museum in Corning’s former city hall. It’s where you’ll find a lot of art pieces about the American experience, including fantastic paintings and sculptures highlighting Native Americans. You can easily spend an hour or two here.

11. Go Wine Tasting

The Finger Lakes is known for its wine! They have three wine trails you can follow to hit up a few spots along the Finger Lakes’ great cities. There is something for every wine drinker, whether you like white, red, or rose.

Finger Lakes Wine Trails are available to follow around Keuka Lake, Cayuga Lake, and Seneca Lake.

12. Enjoy the Views at a Vineyard

Even if you don’t enjoy wine, there are gorgeous views at many Finger Lakes wineries. That is especially true if it’s summer or early fall when vines bloom and grapes grow in the vineyards.

Don’t miss Heron Hill Winery in Hammondsport for its impressive building and the views.

13. Take a Vineyard Tour

If you’re interested in understanding how wine is made, from grapes to glass, then look into a vineyard tour. Try Atwater Vineyards near Watkins Glen for both the view and their tours.

14. Visit a Distillery

If spirits are more of your thing or you enjoy seeing how they make them, consider visiting one of the Finger Lakes’ distilleries. Sign up for a tour, and then try some in a tasting room.

15. Craft Your Adventure with the Southern Finger Lakes Breweries App

Rounding out your adult-beverage options in the Finger Lakes is beer! Be sure to check out the Craft Your Adventure breweries app to find breweries and cideries, from Corning to Watkins Glen and beyond.

16. Go Kayaking on the Chemung River

You can get excellent exercise kayaking in the Finger Lakes. Paddle around one of the lakes in the early morning or before sunset to enjoy cooler temperatures (especially if you paddle out during summer). Don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses!

17. See Waterfalls

There are loads of waterfalls to enjoy in the Finger Lakes! Some you need to hike to see, and others are roadside. The best time to go isn’t perhaps during heavy rain, but just afterward when the water is gushing!

18. Visit Watkins Glen State Park

One of the most beautiful state parks we’ve ever been to is in the Finger Lakes. Their state park has waterfalls and rock formations and is an incredibly romantic destination in Watkins Glen. It’s all simple to hike, too, suitable for any easy-to-moderate hiker.

19. See a Nascar Race at Watkins Glen International

The history of racing in Watkins Glen dates back to the mid-20th century. It’s still a happening activity there today, where there is a track that hosts Nascar races.

If a race isn’t happening on the speedway when you’re in town, consider signing up to drive the track yourself!

20. Visit the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum

Visiting the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum is undoubtedly a must-do activity during a trip to Hammondsport in the Finger Lakes. We learned so much about the advancement of airplanes, especially which directly ties into the Wright Brothers’ history in North Carolina.

Glenn H. Curtiss played a significant role in advancing transportation at the turn of the 19th century. He was an inventor who enjoyed building different bicycles, motorized bicycles (aka: motorcycles), and airplanes. Learn all about it in the museum named after him.

21. Flashback to the 1960s at Maybe Baby Burgers

If you love decades past, Maybe Baby Burgers will be a blast. Their black and white checked floor is the first thing you notice as you enter this unassuming roadside restaurant near the Curtiss Museum. Their menu is extensive and includes everything from burgers to salads, chicken sandwiches, milkshakes, and more.

The memorabilia inside is kitschy yet cute, with poodle skirts on the wall, Saddle Shoes on the ceiling, and old movies playing on two screens. They have outdoor and indoor seating, where you can hear tunes from the era playing over the restaurant’s speakers.

22. Get Ice Cream at a Traditional Ice Cream Parlor

You can still see the ice cream bar as soon as you walk into Crooked Lake Ice Cream Company.

It’s a great place to get a cup or a cone of ice cream to enjoy inside or take on a walk through Hammondsport. They make all their ice cream in-house and have creative flavors as well as classics.

They also have a full breakfast and lunch menu at Crooked Lake Ice Cream Company. So if you’re hungry for more than ice cream, or you are craving something savory, this is the ideal spot to visit in Hammondsport, in the Finger Lakes.

23. Treat Yourself to a Nice Dinner

A must in any location for us is to treat ourselves to at least one “fancy” meal during our stay. That’s why a must-do in the Finger Lakes was an indulgent meal.

We headed to the Park Inn restaurant for craft cocktails and finger-licking food. If you stay at the Park Inn, you will only have to travel downstairs for this memorable meal.

24. Listen to a Concert at Point of the Bluff

Point of the Bluff Vineyards is excellent for wine tastings (and local cheese to go with it if you’re peckish), but it’s also an event space.

The most popular events they hold are concerts. Consider looking into their concert schedule if you’re looking for things to do in the Finger Lakes. It’s a quick drive from the Park Inn.

This post originally appeared on Savoteur.

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It is essential to know how Airbnb works before you head out on your long-term trip so that you can make sure it will meet all of your needs and be as comfortable as possible for your stay. In this blog post, we will cover the essential tips and tricks for using Airbnb.

What Is Airbnb, And How Does It Work?

Airbnb is an online travel service that allows users to book accommodations with hosts around the world. Airbnb provides many different accommodation options, including private rooms in people’s homes (shared or exclusive), shared spaces like a living room or common areas like kitchens and bathrooms, entire private homes (entire home/apartment), and long-term accommodations.

When you book long-term travel accommodations with Airbnb, you deal directly with the host or homeowner without an intermediary like a hotel manager. In addition, you can pay for long-term Airbnb room rentals online before your trip.

How To Find A Long Term Vacation Rental

The long-term Airbnb booking process is the same as any other Airbnb accommodation; however, you will be looking for accommodations that offer long-term options. If long-term Airbnb rates are not specified, it is best to ask if long-term discounts or other accommodations can be made for you as a long-term guest.

Use the filters to find the best long-term Airbnb for you. But, first, determine what you consider non-negotiable, wants versus needs, and things that aren’t essential.

For example, do you require wifi? Do you need a kitchen? Do you want to be close to the city center, or do long-term transportation not matter as much since your long-term accommodation is in an area where many public transport options will take you into town?

Once you have determined what is non-negotiable (wifi, full bathroom) and what isn’t (close to the city center), you can begin sorting through long-term Airbnb listings. First, you will want to narrow down your long-term Airbnb search by price, the number of guests, and rooms available.

What To Look For When Renting A Vacation Home

When staying at long-term Airbnb accommodation, make sure your host provides the following:

A Secure And Safe Place To Stay

Airbnb accommodations are not hotels. When you book long-term travel accommodations, this means having locks on doors and windows or making other arrangements so that no one can enter the house without permission.

The Essentials

Airbnb long-term rooms may not come with all of the essentials you need to be comfortable. For example, if long-term travel accommodations do not include linens and toiletries, make sure that your host provides them before you arrive or figure out how to get what you need once you are there.

A Comfortable Bed and Bedding

Long-term Airbnb travelers can’t always bring their linens, so make sure the mattress is clean, firm, and long enough for your height! You may also want to ask about pillows if you have specific preferences.

A Place For Storage

When long-term Airbnb accommodation does not offer a safe space to store your long-term belongings, make sure you have a place for them. That could be as simple as having some hooks or under the bed storage where you can keep things out of view and organized.

The Location

Ensure that long-term Airbnb accommodations are in an area with easy walking access to attractions, grocery stores, oceans or lakes, and public transportation.

The Rules

Long-term travel accommodations must have clear rules about what guests cannot do or have access to. It’s also crucial that long-term Airbnb accommodations are comfortable for long-term guests, so having good rules in place will help keep things positive and problem-free.

Being Able to Cook

Long-term Airbnb accommodations mean having a kitchen is a necessity. Sometimes this means no oven or stove, but at least some basic pots and pans for cooking long-term Airbnb accommodation on the go!

Privacy

When long-term Airbnb travel accommodations are in shared spaces like living rooms or kitchens, make sure you have your privacy when needed.

Tips For Finding The Perfect Airbnb Home

Read the Reviews

As a general guideline, avoid looking at an Airbnb with fewer than ten reviews. There should be enough evaluations to be confident that you are getting an accurate representation of the property. Look for at least ten reviews, and read each one carefully.

That will provide you with a good idea of what the location has to offer. Long reviews are appreciated, especially when someone says they stayed there for a long time. One poor review shouldn’t deter you depending on what the complaint is about. If the positive reviews far outweigh the negative reviews, consider this.

Read the Description

Make sure the description is thorough and informative. Make certain you go through the full description, as there may be a fee for electricity at the end of your lengthy stay.

Message the Host

Send the host an email with a question/issue, and you should get a response in less than 24 hours. This is fantastic because it usually implies that the host will pre-approve you for the rental and your inquiring date.

Why Is Airbnb A Good Option For Long-term Accommodations?

Airbnb offers long-term travel accommodations that are more cost-efficient than hotels and other types of short-term rentals. You can choose from locations throughout the world with many available listings for long-term rental. In addition, there are several long-term Airbnb options, whether you want to rent a room in someone’s house or an entire apartment.

Having a kitchen to cook meals and storing your belongings makes it easier and more comfortable than staying in hotels.

Benefits Of Using Airbnb Over Hotels

Booking an Airbnb instead of a hotel offers many benefits for long-term travelers. For example, long-term renters can save up to 68% on long-term Airbnb accommodations compared to long-stay hotel rates.

Airbnb has properties in over 191 countries, so it’s easy to find an affordable long-term Airbnb rental that meets your needs wherever you go. It’s also easy to find long-term travel rentals in popular locations worldwide, so you can have an excellent long-term stay no matter where your travels take you.

What If My Long-term Travel Accommodation Doesn’t Work Out?

You must familiarize yourself with the cancellation policies if you book long-term travel accommodations with an Airbnb host. If you make a reservation for 28 days or more, the long-term cancellation policy applies. If a guest cancels or changes a long-term reservation, this is how it to handle it:

• Depending on the listing and when the reservation is made, your first payment might be non-refundable.
• Unless otherwise stated, if they cancel after a trip has begun, the nights remaining in their reservation are non-refundable. Only the next 30 nights are non-refundable if they have more than 30 days left on their booking.
• It is up to the homeowner if they choose to give an additional refund.

Legitimate Vacation Rental Sites

• Airbnb
• Home Away
• Abodo

Five Fantastic Long-term Airbnb Rentals in the US

1. Brownstone in Downtown Minneapolis, MN – the location in the historic district is the main selling point for this long-term Airbnb.
2. Unique Loft in Bend, OR – this unique loft will be a pleasure to stay in long-term and make for a memorable experience.
3. Cozy Cottage in Arden, NC – admire the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from this quaint cottage just 15 minutes from Asheville.
4. Adobe-Style Casita in Taos, NM – enjoy the privacy of being tucked away in the mountains of Taos.
5. Hotel-Like Home in Nashville, TN – this long-term Airbnb is clean and modern and close to Midtown music venues.

Long-term travel accommodations are not for everyone, but they can be a fun and affordable way to see the world! Booking long-term travel can be challenging. You may be skeptical that it will look like the photos, or you may be doubtful that you can even find a place that meets your requirements. Long-term Airbnb accommodation is more of a commitment, so getting exactly what you want and serving your needs while traveling is essential.

This post originally appeared on Savoteur.

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The best and most common way to watch free movies online is by subscribing to a streaming service. This allows you to watch old and recent movies without having to download them every single time. It is such a treat if you’re looking for something specific, like the best Meryl Streep movies.

And it gets better. While you can get paid to watch Netflix, it’s possible to say goodbye to Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ entirely. There are plenty of ways to watch movies and shows online besides subscribing to paid streaming services.

We all know these monthly charges can add up over time. So this will help, especially if you’re looking for additional ways to save money.

Best Sites To Watch Free Movies Online

With so many places to stream movies for free online, you won’t have to spend as much and still watch free movies online. Here are some of the best options.

1. Sony Crackle

Sony Crackle is a free streaming service that has movies, TV shows, and specials. The company offers live TV channels, on-demand movies and TV shows, and original programming for watching anytime or anywhere. You can watch series like the Housewives of Atlanta, starring Porsha Williams.

Sony Crackle offers various genres of films, including comedies, dramas, thrillers, horror films, and other types. Just be aware that you have to watch a couple of ads to watch the movie, which is definitely worth it.

You don’t need to sign up – go to the website and start watching!

2. IMDb TV

IMDb is the perfect website to check out reviews and trailers for upcoming movies. On top of that, they have IMDb TV. IMDb TV is an online movie streaming service that allows you to watch free movies online. It has a vast library of movies that are updated daily.

As with many streaming sites, you’ll have to go through a couple of ads to get to the movie. However, if you have Amazon Prime, you can watch films on IMDb TV without ads. They have many classics and family favorites, so you’ll be able to find something to watch for sure.

3. Hoopla

Hoopla is a revolutionary digital library that lets you stream and watch movies and TV shows online. The only caveat here is that you have to have a library subscription, and your local library needs to support Hoopla.

You can rent free movies and TV shows. Just make sure you virtually return them to avoid late fees. You can watch them on your laptop, tablet, or TV with Hoopla on Roku or Chromecast.

Plus, Hoopla also offers ebooks and audiobooks, so you’ll never have to be bored again.

4. Kanopy

Kanopy is a video streaming service that provides over 30,000 movies at your fingertips. It is available for libraries, schools, universities, and other institutions. If you have a library card or your school supports the platform, it’s a great platform to check out.

It is the first video streaming service to offer free access to acclaimed documentaries and indie films. It’s a great way to distract yourself when you’re trying to do hard things like quitting caffeine, need a break from studying, and destress after a long workday.

Their app is the perfect place to watch great content from award-winning studios. Just make sure you watch their videos when you see something you like, as they tend to rotate movies at times.

5. How to Watch Free Movies on YouTube

YouTube is the most popular video streaming site on the internet. There are more than 1 billion active users on this site. If you have an account, you can watch free movies online on YouTube by going to the Videos section and clicking On TV Tonight.

Besides that, you can watch YouTube videos of anything and everything. Like sports, comedy, music, and cooking.

They also offer free movies online. They host a selection of movies you can watch. While you’d have to pay for the majority of their films, some great free movies are in their library.

6. Movies Found Online

Movies Found Online is a website that helps people with finding, sharing, and embedding videos from across the web.

It provides people with a searchable index of movie clips from all around the internet. That means that users can search up virtually any movie clip and find it on Movies Found Online.

The great thing about Movies Found Online is that the movies on their platform are largely independently made. It makes sure to have a different selection than the other sites on our list, making it more unique. Whether you’re looking for short films, documentaries, or movies, Movies Found Online offers it.

7. Pluto TV

Pluto TV is a free and always-on TV service that offers a lineup of 250+ channels. They offer shows, movies, cartoons, and live news from 18 different categories.

There are plenty of genres to choose from, such as classic films, comedies, sci-fi, and much more. Not only can you use Pluto TV to watch movies online for free, but you can also use it as a complete replacement for your current cable TV.

8. Popcornflix

Popcornflix is a free streaming service of movies and TV shows. It has both free and paid accounts, with the latter offering exclusive content, HD quality video streams, and no ads.

The variety of genres ranges from comedy to crime to family shows. There’s something for everyone on this platform. They even have Popcornflix originals if you want to check out something you won’t see on other platforms.

9. Sling TV

Sling TV is a television service, and it offers a range of live and on-demand channels. You can stream more than 25,000 hours of content from your favorite channel with Sling TV. The channel is also compatible with Android and Apple TV.

You can watch your favorite movies or any other program without paying a single penny for these services. Keep in mind that you won’t get the full functionality when creating a free account, but there will be more than enough to keep you occupied.

10. Tubi TV

Tubi TV is an online streaming service that offers a wide variety of movies. It’s been around since 2014, and they’re currently one of the most popular streaming services out there.

Some of the features include:

• A TV-style navigation interface, which makes it easy to find what you’re looking for.
• The ability to watch now or save shows and movies to your queue for later viewing.
• Watch with others by inviting your friends (even if they don’t have Tubi).
• The option to download movies and watch them offline without an internet connection.

11. Yidio

Yidio is a service that enables people to find and watch movies online. It can help you find the content you want to watch, even if it’s not available on Netflix or Hulu. Yidio can also recommend movies for you to watch based on your previous search history.

Yidio’s search engine uses an algorithm that predicts what movie or TV show you are looking for by using your previous search history, what is popular among other Yidio users, and the popularity of the movie or TV show itself.

12. Plex

Plex is a media player that you can use to watch movies online. It also acts as a media server in the background, which means you can save your media on the platform. Whether you want to be the next Taylor Swift, want to see how your dance moves look or want to practice for phone actress jobs, this is the perfect platform for you.

Plex is a free and open-source app that organizes all of your home media and enables you to stream it to any device from anywhere you happen to be. You can share your libraries with friends, family, and the wider community.

They now offer an online library, which means that you can watch free movies without having your collection.

13. Top Documentary Films

Top Documentary Films is a website that allows users to watch free documentaries online on some of the most popular topics.

The documentaries are categorized into sections such as Environment, Crime, or Science. These sections contain all sorts of fascinating documentaries, from animal behavior videos to physics lectures.

The website claims to feature over 3,000 documentaries, and they add new ones every week. You go to their platform, click on the category you want, and search for a documentary you want to watch for free.

14. The Roku Channel

The Roku Channel is a channel that you can find on the Roku device. It is a free channel that lets you watch the latest movies and TV shows for free.

The Roku Channel has a nice selection of movies and TV shows to choose from, but it does not have as many as Netflix or Hulu.

One of the best things about The Roku Channel is that it is free. You can watch unlimited TV episodes and movies at no cost whatsoever.

15. Peacock

Peacock is a free movie streaming service that offers content from all over the world.

Peacock has been around since 2004 and was initially created as a TV station. In 2009, Peacock metamorphosed into an online streaming service, where it now offers movies and series from all over the world.

The catalogue of Peacock is constantly growing thanks to partnerships with other providers. One of them is Netflix, whose roster of movies and series can be watched on Peacock as long as you have a Netflix subscription.

16. Fawesome.tv

Fawesome.tv is a Netflix-like streaming platform on which you can watch free movies and TV shows online. There are many titles to choose from, and it’s available on all major platforms (PC, Mac, Android, iOS).

You can either search for the movie or TV show that you want to watch by their name or browse through the list of genres. You can also browse by popularity or category if you know what you want to watch beforehand. There are many box office hits as well as niches that will cater to your every need!

17. VRV

VRV is a streaming service of multiple channels, including Crunchyroll, Funimation, Rooster Teeth, Cartoon Hangover, and Shudder. These channels are all available for free. You can use VRV to watch free movies without any subscription or sign-up process.

The platform is the best in terms of the anime they offer. If that’s something you enjoy, this is the platform for you.

VRV does not just provide videos on its platform. If you want to watch Crunchyroll on your computer, you can use the VRV app on your browser or download it directly onto your computer. You can also use the VRV app for watching YouTube videos offline on your mobile device.

18. Internet Archive

The Internet Archive is a non-profit digital library. It provides free public access to archived web pages, as well as collections of digital media. The organization’s stated mission is universal access to all knowledge.

The Internet Archive offers over 3 petabytes (3 million gigabytes) of permanent storage for public domain and copyrighted works. An average of more than 1 billion digital files per day is added to its catalogs.

In addition to archiving web content, Internet Archive also actively preserves content by creating backup copies or transferring older versions from online sources when the original versions are destroyed. That means that much content on the platform is 50+ years old, so be sure to head to this platform when you’re looking for classics.

19. Xumo

Xumo is a free movie and TV app with no limits on the amount of content you can watch. The app offers over 10,000 movies and TV shows that you can stream instantly.

Plus, they provide live content, where you can decide which of the 190 available channels you want to watch.

20. Vimeo

Vimeo is a well-known online video-sharing site that allows uploading and streaming videos. Vimeo was founded in 2004, and its initial intent was to act as a hosting service for longer-length amateur films than Youtube.

Since then, the site has evolved into a video-sharing platform with more than 200 million different video uploads per year. There are plenty of films that you can watch for free on Vimeo. Plus, you can download them for later or stream to watch them now.

21. Vudu

Vudu is a company that allows you to watch free movies online. It has over 20,000 movies and TV shows for you to stream anytime, anywhere. With this platform, you’ll have to sit through a couple of ads before you can watch the movie, but that’s probably worth it.

Vudu is an American company that offers streaming of movies and TV shows. The platform provides content in over seven languages, including English, Japanese, Spanish, French, German, Chinese Mandarin, and Korean.

22. Redbox

Redbox is a company that has red boxes at supermarkets, gas stations, and other places. These boxes contain DVDs and Blu-Rays for people to rent. However, the company also offers a streaming service free of charge.

You can go directly to the Redbox website to stream TVs or movies on your smart TV or through their app.

All In All – Best Sites To Watch Free Movies Online

With these ideas, watching free movies online is now easier than before. Not only is it a frugal way to watch the films you like, but you can also do this in the comfort of your home anytime. The list of websites given here can be your ultimate guide for your entertainment needs.

Though these websites are ad-supported, they are legal in the US. And it’s a small price to pay for watching your favorite shows for free. So say goodbye to monthly charges, and say hello to the freedom of watching movies online for free. Pick and choose which one suits your needs and click away!

This post originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks.

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A Remarkable Experience in Molokai

In 2005 my husband and I flew to Molokai. It was my first time on the island and Andrew was so excited to show me this Hawaiian island that his family had been coming to since the 80’s. One of the adventures we had back then was to hike down to the Molokai leper colony and join the tour of the Kalaupapa peninsula.

Back then, you were able to either hike down or take a mule ride down the 2.9 mile trail with 26 switchbacks, a descent of 1700 feet on the edge of the tallest sea cliffs in the world! It was a thrilling adventure and I’m sad to say that the trail is currently closed so the only way to visit Kalaupapa in 2021 is to fly in and out.

Even though you can no longer hike or ride the mules down, the experience is a must if you are visiting Molokai.

History Of The Molokai Leper Colony in Kalaupapa

In order to understand the significance of a visit to Kalaupapa today, it’s important to first learn about its history. A peninsula jutting out from the northern coast of Molokai island in Hawaii, Kalaupapa was home to Hawaiian patients with leprosy (also known as Hansen’s Disease) who were quarantined by the Hawaiian government in 1866 after a law was passed that forced anyone with leprosy into confinement.

The quarantine made it illegal for people living with leprosy to live freely within Hawaii, and thus over time, many were sent to Kalaupapa whether they wanted to go or not. It’s estimated that at its height the population of the Molokai leper colony reached over 8000 people, and it wasn’t until 1969 that a cure for Hansen’s Disease was discovered.

The Hawaiian Kingdom had a policy of isolation that began in 1835 when King Kamehameha V moved patients with Hansen’s Disease to the island of Molokai. The Settlement or more commonly “Kalaupapa”, which means “flat-leaf”, referring to how flat the land is, was an area of about 60 square miles.

Kalaupapa literally means “flat-leaf” in Hawaiian, and it appropriately depicts the two-mile-wide peninsula that juts from beneath a 2,000-foot-high cliff on the north coast. Because it was so distant, the location was chosen in the nineteenth century. It is encircled on three sides by churning seas. The cliffs behind formerly served as a formidable barrier restricting access to the rest of Molokai. Escapes were uncommon.

The people who lived here were considered outcasts of society. They were not allowed to see their families; they lived in small huts around the peninsula and had to work for food. Still, at the time, they referred to it as “leprosy” or “the sickness,” which means that most people didn’t even know they were dealing with a disease. These people left behind their families and everything they knew or were separated from family members due to the possibility of catching the disease.

About Father Damien

A Belgian Catholic priest, Damien Joseph de Veuster, whose arrival in 1873 at the age of 33 was prompted by cries for help, assisted. Father Damien also cared for the physical as well as spiritual needs of the community. He is recognized for having instilled in the village’s inhabitants a sense of compassion for one another, and he collaborated with them to create permanent homes, plant fruit trees, and construct a reservoir for freshwater drinking and bathing. He gave particular attention to the care of the settlement’s orphans

In 1885, Father Damien himself was diagnosed as having leprosy. He continued to serve at the Molokai leper colony despite the disease, and he died in Kalaupapa on April 15, 1889, at the age of 49 years old. Not far from the cemetery is the location where Father Damien was buried after his death in 1889. He died at St Philomena’s Church, and his remains were moved to Belgium in 1936. In December 2009 it was announced that Father Damien’s remains would be moved from his gravesite in Belgium back to Molokai for a pilgrimage led by Pope Benedict XVI along with an entourage of Vatican delegates.

Mother Marianne Cope

Mother Marianne Cope, also known as Saint Marianne of Molokaʻi, was a nun who came to Hawaii in 1862. She helped treat the lepers and is credited with bringing modern nursing practices to Kalaupapa, including bathing patients, providing bedding for them, and allowing men to help deliver babies. When there were not enough nuns or doctors available, she would be called upon to treat the patients. In 1883, she returned home to upstate New York. She spent the next 20 years working with the elderly before returning to Hawaii in 1888, where she eventually died at age 87.

Father Damien Tour of Molokai Leper Colony

Visiting the Molokai leper colony is one of the top things to do in Molokai but it is not easy to get to. Mokulele Airlines airline currently providing commuter flights to and from Kalaupapa. In addition to the flight, you will need to arrange a permit to enter Kalaupapa and organize a tour of the settlement. There are no accommodations in Molokai leper colony and overnight stays are only allowed by visitors of the residents.

The Visitors’ Center is at the beginning of the trail that leads to St Philomena’s Cemetery. It’s small with quite a bit of historical information about Father Damien and Mother Marianne and historical pictures and exhibits on how Father Damien lived and worked among the patients. 

The Settlement – where people lived and worked – was preserved when Father Damien arrived. The buildings are simple wood structures with corrugated tin roofs painted white. There are historical pictures around the walls showing how they used to look and the patients who lived there.

The cemetery is on top of the hill overlooking the Settlement. Those buried here were patients who died at St Philomena’s or The Settlement, so none of their family members could afford to ship their remains back home.

Cost of Father Damien Tour 

There is a lot of preparation required in order to visit the Molokai leper colony. Getting to the Kalaupapa leper colony is no simple task! It necessitates a significant amount of foresight. Here are some essential facts to bear in mind.:

You must acquire a permit to enter Kalaupapa

• You must be 16 years or older to visit
• There are no medical facilities, nor are there any food or shopping conveniences.
• Photography of residents or property is strictly prohibited. 
• There is no overnight accommodation.
• You must be in good physical condition to visit due to the strenuous nature of the trip.

A permit is required to visit Kalaupapa. This may be obtained by booking with the tour operator. Unfortunately, you can only visit with a guided tour when you come to the colony. You will be taken around the area in an antique school bus while learning about the site’s tragic history.

The guided tour includes transportation to and from your hotel, all park fees, and a buffet lunch at Kalawao. Once you arrive at the Visitors’ Center in Kalaupapa, there is no public transport, so be sure to book your trip with one of the many tour operators: Damien Tours LLC, or Molokai Mule Ride, to name two.

At the time of writing, tours were suspended. I highly recommend that you contact the tour companies mentioned for the current cost and schedule.

1.Kekaula Tours LLC / associated with the Mule Ride can arrange and sponsor permits for their clients on a fly-in, mule ride or a hike-in package. Please check their website: www.muleride.com or by phone: 808-567-6088.

2.Saint Damien & Mother Marianne Cope Molokai Tours, LLC. can also arrange and sponsor permits for their clients on a fly-in or hike-in package. Please contact by phone: (808) 895-1673.

There is only one airline currently providing commuter flights to/from Kalaupapa:
Mokulele Airlines, please call (866) 260-7070 or visit www.mokuleleairlines.com

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

In Kalaupapa National Historical Park you can still see remains from some of the original structures built during its early days as a settlement where only patients with leprosy were allowed to live.

The Kalaupapa National Historical Park is committed to preserving the stories and experiences of those who were forcibly relocated here to learn vital lessons. The park first opened its doors in 1980. The park’s purpose is to establish a well-kept neighborhood in which the current Kalaupapa Settlement patient-residents can live out their days in peace and comfort. In addition, the park promotes awareness of Hansen’s illness (leprosy), a condition that has been buried in dread and ignorance for ages.

Saint Philomena Church

Between 1872 to 1889, the Kalaupapa Leprosy Settlement on Molokai built St. Philomena Church. The first chapel was built in 1872 by people living with Hansen’s disease who lived in Kalaupapa. Father Damien arrived in Kalawao in 1873 and was instrumental in the church’s expansion on two occasions.

First, the original 1872 church was incorporated into the extended part, which can be seen in pictures. The church’s second enlargement was completed a year after his death. The National Park Service manages St. Philomena Church, which is currently part of the Kalaupapa National Park.

Final Thoughts on the Molokai Leper Colony

Today, Kalaupapa is a place of healing. It’s also one with some history most people don’t know about—but it doesn’t have to be that way. The Kalaupapa peninsula is one of the most remote places in Hawaii. Once upon a time this place was known as Molokai Leper Colony and for decades patients were quarantined by law with no hope for cure. Today there are tours available that provide an opportunity to visit the site of this historic place, which many say has one of the best sunsets in all of Hawaii!

This post can also be viewed on Google web stories as How to Visit the Molokai Leper Colony.

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Accommodations on Molokai

The island of Molokai is divided up into three main sections, east, west, and central.

Molokai East

The most populated area of Molokai is the eastern part of the island. This is the area that has the most options for rental and vacation properties. You can choose to stay someplace where you are in the hub of activity or remote and secluded.

Vacation Rentals on Molokai East

Just 1.5 miles east of Kaunakakai is Molokai Shores. These oceanfront condos are peaceful and secluded. The island of Lanai is visible from four beautifully landscaped acres, all of which feature spectacular views of the channel to Lana’i.

Wavecrest Condominiums, which are fully equipped and sit 13 miles east of Kaunakakai town on five tropical acres, include a swimming pool, poolside cabana, and two tennis courts.

If you are looking for family accommodation with kids or a party, then Dunbar Beachfront Cottages will suit you well. They are located in a quiet area but you have modern amenities, like tv, internet, a full kitchen, and laundry. These cottages can sleep four people and you can enjoy your very own patch of the beach. They are a cash-only facility and you must book for at least three nights. There will also be a cleaning fee.

Molokai Beach House is also a great place for families or larger parties. Three-night minimum, full amenities like internet and laundry, and large yard, on the ocean. 

Pu‘u O Hoku Ranch is a working ranch with three cottages and a lodge. It’s remote and that’s the way everyone likes it. There is a beautiful beach and fantastic views, but don’t expect to access the internet, this area is unplugged. There is a small store, and the cottages are one, two, or four bedrooms. These are not all close together and all come with full kitchens and easy access to the beach.

Molokai West

Vacation Rentals on Molokai West

The west portion of Molokai is a bit drier than the east, and it is remote and far from everything. Everything except glorious beaches and the sun. There are a few condos in the area.

Ke Nani Kai is the largest complex in this area. There are suites for rent depending on availability, time-shares, and one or two-bedroom suites, a pool, and an easy walk to the beach. I have stayed in Ke Nani Kai many times over the last decade as my husband’s family had owned a condo there since the early 90’s. There is a pool and hot tub, tennis court and BBQ for guest use.

It is very important to note that for any families planning on staying at Ke Nani Kai, children must be supervised at all times in the pool and are not allowed to use the hot tub unless they are 16 years of age or older.

There is also the Paniolo Hale, with similar amenities with this complex closer to the beach. Some units require a longer commitment than three days, and all are reasonably priced.

Kaluakoi Villas, also known as Kepuhi Beach Resort offers a perfect escape with fully equipped studios and one-bedroom condos that provide sunset views of the beautiful beach.

Central Molokai

Hotel Molokai Kaunakakai

Located on Kamiloloa beach is Hotel Molokai, made up of Polynesian-style bungalows. More of a village than what you might traditionally think of a hotel, these rooms come with internet and some have a kitchenette. The Hotel Molokai is over 50 years old and you can expect the old-world charm and modern conveniences. But people don’t come for the amenities, they come for the beauty of the island. 

After a long day of discovering the island or doing as little as possible, enjoy Hiro’s Ohana Grill, the hotel’s famous restaurant. Ohana means family and that’s exactly what you get, a glorious meal and the Hiro family hospitality. With ocean views where you can relax with your meal and watch the sun go down. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can also get yours to go. Whatever meal you choose, you can bet it’s inspired by this Hawaiian island.

Common Questions about Hotel Molokai

If you are planning a trip to Molokai or the Hotel Molokai, here are a few common questions to help you navigate your way.

How do we get to Hotel Molokai from the airport?

You can book a shuttle from the airport, rent a car, or hire a taxi.

What time does the bar close at Hotel Molokai?

The Hiro’s Family grill closes at 8:30 pm and on Monday.

How much is a taxi from Molokai airport to Hotel Molokai?

Expect to pay anywhere from $30-$50 for a taxi.

RELATED: The Best Things to do in Molokai

Hotel Molokai Reviews

Here are a few excerpts from people who have stayed in Hotel Molokai.

• The General Manager is a great asset to the hotel and his genuine attention to guests was exceptional

• I recommend staying at Hotel Molokai 100% and will return here as my ‘go to’ place for accommodations on the Friendly Isle

• If you want to experience the Aloha spirit from years past, then you will find it here

• Staff is friendly, warm, and welcoming. Views from the hotel grounds are beautiful

Molokai FAQ

Final Thoughts on Hotel Molokai

There are only a few types of accommodations on Molokai and only one hotel. Most people come to Molokai to get away from the hustle and bustle of Maui or Oahu and enjoy the solitude that the island provides. If you are looking to stay in a hotel on Molokai during your vacation, why not check out the Hotel Molokai for yourself? It’s cosy, comfortable and not your typical large overflowing hotel scene. Relax, unwind, and enjoy the waves, the sand and the sun.

This post can also be viewed on Google web stories as Where to Stay in Molokai.

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1. Planning the Trip

When traveling with kids, you need to take a bit more time planning each trip detail. Plan your trips differently than you do when traveling without them. It may sound like a simple suggestion, but in reality, it is one of the most important parts of planning to travel with kids.

Depending on the age of your children, you will need to consider their nap schedules, meal times, bedtimes, and how active you think you can be each day. In addition, you will need to consider if you want to keep a similar routine that you have at home or be more flexible when it comes to naps and mealtimes.

Consider spending more on accommodation when traveling with kids as you are more likely to spend the bulk of your time there. Try finding a hotel that is a destination in itself, so you are not disappointed that you can’t spend all day on adventures and activities.

When you plan the trip, make sure to leave room for spontaneity and a change of plans along the way. It’s always better to be prepared, but travel is all about being adaptable too. Build downtime into your itinerary so that you have some lazy mornings to sleep in or afternoons where you can spend poolside.

Take advantage of traveling via train or bus if possible, so you have more room to maneuver around and stretch out when traveling with kids.

2. Take Extra Time to Pack

Try not to pack at the last minute when traveling with kids! It is a good idea to pull out your luggage at least a week before departure and do an initial pack of everything you think you will need. Make sure to check the weather of your destination so that you are packing appropriate items.

Over the next few days, add or subtract items when you think of them. Packing in this way gives you a buffer to avoid those last-minute forgotten items, giving you a chance to see what works, but most importantly, what doesn’t work for traveling with kids.

Beginning the packing process early also allows you plenty of time to purchase any travel gifts or travel gear that you may not own. Take stock of the essentials and decide if you want to buy any new travel items to make traveling with kids more manageable.

Take the time to pack your carry-on bag so that you are prepared for any situation. Be sure to pack toys, books, snacks, coloring supplies, and anything else that will keep your children entertained on the plane or in lineups. If your child is old enough, allow them to have their suitcase with wheels and give them a small backpack.

Perhaps the most crucial tip for packing is always having an extra outfit on hand in case of accidents while traveling!

3. Pack Snacks

If traveling long distances, it’s important to pack enough snacks for children for those times when you are not able to purchase food. Remember that traveling with kids requires time and patience, so you will not want to stop for food every few hours.

Pack snacks such as granola bars, snack chips, crackers, and dried fruits in your carry-on bag just before departure. If traveling abroad, make sure also to pack some familiar treats like chocolate or gummy bears for those times when traveling is just too hard.

Pack snacks for children that are easy to transport to avoid messing or create a massive mess in your carry-on bag. Be sure to pack plenty of refillable water bottles as well for extra hydration during long flights and drives.

Make traveling with kids easier by packing lots of snacks and water.

4. Download Entertainment on Devices Before You Leave

If you are bringing any devices to use during your travels, be sure to download any movies or tv shows before you leave and make sure to charge them fully. Many different entertainment apps now have options for downloading like Netflix, Prime, and Disney+, so take advantage of them and be sure you have enough space available.

Do not rely on WIFI during your vacation. Shared WIFI at hotels tends to download much slower, and depending on where you are traveling, you may not even have WIFI.

You can also download a new game that your child has been asking about playing, which will help keep them entertained. It will also get excited about the trip and help them endure the long travel days.

Another tip is to download the app for any airlines you may be flying with. Those apps offer many entertainment options, so it is handy to take advantage of them, especially when traveling with kids.

5. Bring Coloring Books, Crayons, and Puzzles

If traveling with kids, be sure to bring coloring books and crayons. There are many different travel-friendly options now that do not take up too much space in your luggage. These can help keep children busy during long flights or car rides which is always a bonus when traveling with kids.

You can also consider bringing a small puzzle along for the ride as well. Most travel puzzles come in travel-friendly boxes that are magnetic, and they are great to pull out when you want to help pass the time. You can also download puzzle apps on your devices if you wish to minimize items to pack.

6. Avoid Packing Too Many Toys

While it may seem tempting to pack many toys to keep your kids entertained while traveling, you should avoid doing this. Often, kids get bored of toys, and you will end up just lugging them around from place to place. It is essential to pack just a few durable and travel-friendly toys, so you don’t lose any pieces during traveling.

If traveling abroad, try to pack items that will be familiar and easy for kids to understand so they feel comfortable while traveling. For instance, if your child loves dolls, consider packing one along and a book about the destination, which is more interactive and will get them excited about where they are going.

You will be amazed at the number of travel-friendly toy options available at your local toy store. Consider buying a couple of new toys and surprise them on the airplane or during a long car ride.

You can also pack new toys in their carry-on so that they discover them on their own during travel. The surprise will delight them and keep them distracted for a while.

7. Get Your Child Excited About the Trip Ahead of Time

In advance of your trip, consider watching movies or reading books about your destination, which will help get your child excited about your trip. By reading travel-related books or watching a film set in the destination country, you can familiarize them with the surroundings to feel comfortable while traveling.

Finding travel books with lots of photos and maps of your destination are a great way to get your kids excited. Pack a map and talk about your itinerary with your child, showing them pictures of any attractions or adventures you have planned.

If you are going on a long road trip, consider letting your child help decide where to stop and let them follow along on a map. The more you can include them in the traveling process, the more excited they will be, and it can help them feel a part of an adventure.

You can also ask your child to pack their suitcase so that they have a sense of ownership over traveling with you. In addition, traveling abroad is an excellent chance to learn about packing light, which is very useful for traveling.

8. Take the Stroller But Don’t Overpack It

If traveling with a small child, be sure to bring the stroller for those adventures when they can’t walk for long distances. However, don’t overpack it so that you have to carry a heavy stroller.

Instead of packing lots of toys and things in your child’s carry-on or suitcase, consider making them their own backpack, which can be easily attached to the stroller when traveling. It is an excellent way for kids to feel independent while traveling and know that they have everything they need.

If you are traveling abroad to Europe, avoid bringing an umbrella stroller which is challenging to maneuver on cobblestone roads. A stroller with more durable wheels will have an easier time navigating the cobblestone but are often bulkier than umbrella strollers, so it is a bit of a tradeoff.

Consider traveling by train if possible where there is more space to pack strollers.

9. Bring an Emergency Kit

Before traveling with kids, consider making an emergency kit for your child containing anything you may need during travel. An emergency kit should include all essentials like bandaids, allergy medications, magnesium, sunscreen, antibacterial wipes, etc. This kit should be stored in your carry-on so that you can easily access it during traveling.

A great tip for traveling abroad is to label each of these items with your child’s name if they get lost. Labeling items can help you get them back to them if they drop the container during traveling.

You may also consider making one for yourself, including remedies for headaches, prescriptions, lotions, extra sunscreen, etc. An emergency kit is a must if traveling with a baby to keep them safe and comfortable.

10. Set Realistic Expectations

While traveling with kids, you should always set realistic expectations for your trip. If they are tired or hungry, don’t push it and make traveling more complicated than needed. Don’t expect to be exploring from morning until night. Kids need some downtime, so they don’t get overtired.

Don’t get frustrated if you don’t make it to all of the attractions on your list or if they want to go back and play in the pool for a day. That’s all part of traveling with kids. Of course, you will likely spend more time at your hotel or accommodation than exploring, but that is okay. Kids need downtime, and you may as well enjoy it too.

Being flexible while traveling with kids can be difficult but remember to have fun with them, not to get stressed out about making it everywhere on your list. Not every day needs to be jam-packed full of sightseeing if your kids are tired.

Schedule some time for just you and your significant other as well. For example, go out for a nice meal or go on a date night if traveling with friends where the parents can take turns watching all of the kids so that everyone gets a little downtime away from parenting responsibilities.

There are many things to consider when traveling with children. The experience can be wonderful but also challenging and frustrating at times. If you want your family’s journey to go smoothly, you must have an idea of what to expect in advance so that you can prepare for the challenges ahead or avoid them altogether.

These top ten tips for traveling with kids will prepare you mentally before heading out on the road – whatever stage in life your child may be currently experiencing!

This post originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks.

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Unlike any other place, Florida has beautiful beaches and state parks, fun shopping, big farms, thrill-seeking amusement parks, and more. There’s clearly something for everyone. Check out this list of 34 things to do in Florida.

Things To Do In Florida

1. Snorkel And Scuba Dive At The Devil’s Den Spring

With a name formed from the smoky steam that rises from its chimney open, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Devil’s Den Spring. Ancient rock formations and fossil beds dating more than 30 million years and crystal clear water give visitors memories that will last.

In a dark cave, this privately owned, stunning 120 feet wide underground sinkhole is located in Williston, Florida. It offers a unique experience to tourists who want to go snorkeling or scuba diving.

As one of the top things to do in Florida, the location offers lodging at 4 cabins, tent campgrounds, and an RV park. Tourists have access to picnic tables, grills, cabanas, lawn games, and a heated swimming pool.

Unfortunately, the den itself isn’t open to the general public. You need a reservation to go downstairs to see the spring.

2. Sight-see at Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens

Located next to the Devil’s Den in Williston, Florida, tourists will find Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens. This beautiful botanical garden offers more than 50 garden displays, waterfalls, koi ponds, and breathtaking views to enjoy. With festivals, shows, and concerts, there’s sure to be something to keep you entertained.

3. Camp At Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs offers camping for champions. With more than 200 Wooded acres and spring-side tent sites with full electric and water hookup, campers are set up with beautiful views and fun water activities from innertubes to kayaks and canoes. The site doesn’t disappoint if you’re looking to dive in its crystal clear, 72-degree freshwater,

4. Have Fun At Magic Kingdom

The Magic Kingdom is one of four Walt Disney-owned theme parks in Bay Lake near Orlando. Meet and greet your favorite Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Daisy, and more. Visit Cinderella’s Castle or enjoy a thrilling roller coaster. Have dinner with Belle and finish up the night with a stunning display of fireworks and immersive projections.

In fact, a day at Magic Kingdom offers tourists many things to do, ranging from entertainment, special events, and tours to themed dining experiences. There’s something for everyone of all ages. It’s easy to see why Walt Disney World is one of Florida’s most iconic landmarks and things to do.

5. Check Out Theme Parks At Universal Orlando

Movie lovers are guaranteed to love Universal Orlando with 3 theme parks: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. Citywalk Orlando is the “Epicenter of Awesome,” with entertainment, shopping, and restaurants for everyone.

Harry Potter and Marvel fans are sure to be delighted with thrilling rides made just for them.

6. Visit Daytona International Speedway

Located in Dayton, Florida, Daytona International Speedway is more than a racetrack. The racing enthusiast is sure to enjoy seeing cars race around the 2.5-mile track. Still, the speedway is also home to concerts, civic and social gatherings, vehicle testing, police training, and car shows. Visitors are also sure to enjoy daily tours and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.

7. Learn Something New At Kennedy Space Center

There’s never been a better time to learn about space as we strive to understand our role on the planet earth and the evolution of man. And what better place to do it than the Kennedy Space Center located in Merritt Island, Florida. The Kennedy Space Center is one of 10 NASA field centers. It’s one of NASA’s main launch sites and home to several research facilities.

The complex features exhibits, historic spacecraft memorabilia, shows, and tours of the spaceport.

8. Get Closer To Nature and Animals At Naples Zoo

Naples Zoo is a nationally accredited zoo with more than a mile of beautiful animals within tropical gardens. You’ll find several of your favorite animals and a few rarer animals like a giant anteater and the fossa of Madagascar. The zoo has a large aquarium and botanical garden. There’s always something fun to do at Naples Zoo, with shows and events scattered throughout the year.​​

9. Stroll Through Naples Botanical Garden

The Naples Botanical Garden is a “170-acre, world-class garden paradise that features plants from around the world.” The garden represents the culture and flora of the tropics and has more than 220,000 visitors yearly.

10. Enjoy A Football Game Or Tour At The Raymond James Stadium

Who doesn’t love a little football? With their unexpected Superbowl LV win, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a sight to be seen, and so is their stadium. You can’t beat the cheering, music, stadium hotdogs, and people.

But for those who don’t care for football, there’s the sightseeing experience of going to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ home stadium. Tours are given Monday through Thursday and some Fridays at 2 pm. Take a look at the playing field, locker room, suites, and the famous pirate ship.

11. Relish In Bok Tower Gardens

The Bok Tower Gardens is a national historical landmark with two hiking trails, 50 acres of gardens, art deco, a neo-Goth Singing Tower carillon. It is an awe-inspiring attraction in central Florida’s Lake Wales.

Spice up your summer with a display of pepper plants at the Bok Towers Gardens. A unique spicy stroll through a rainbow of edible and ornamental pepper plants gives insight into the vibrant world of these peppers.

12. Admire The Sunken Gardens In St. Petersburg

Sunken Gardens is a 100-year-old, 4.5 acre home to more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. It has cascading waterfalls and a flock of flamingos for visitors to admire.

13. Play At Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is a 335-acre African-themed animal theme park located in Tampa, FL. Home to 200 species of animals, you can go behind the scenes with a tour of the safari. At Busch Gardens, you’ll find everything from festivals and animal exhibits to rides and roller coasters to keep you entertained.

14. Visit J.N. “Ding” Darling NWR

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is home to interactive exhibits on refuge ecosystems and birdlife. You can take three trails to explore the wildlife. Visitors may also find fishing, boating, biking, and photography opportunities during their time at the wildlife refuge. Tours are also provided.

15. Get To Know Ernest Hemingway

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West, Florida, to walk the path of a legend and learn a little more about the famous writer. Take a tour of Hemingway’s home and see the photos of Hemingway’s fishing adventures. Tourists may have full access to his home and writing studio with the Hemingway Home Evening Writing Experience.

16. Melt Away Stress At The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

Relax and let your stress go while walking through a magical world of butterflies at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. The tropical paradise is filled with hundreds of beautiful butterflies from 50 to 60 butterfly species worldwide. The conservatory is also home to 20 exotic bird species, cascading waterfalls, and trees.

Learn more about butterfly anatomy, physiology, and life cycle in the Learning Center and browse through the Gift Shop for a wide selection of artwork and unique gifts.

17. See The Florida Panther At The Everglades National Park

Only 45 miles northeast of Miami International Airport, the Everglades National Park in the United States’ largest subtropical park and wilderness. It is home to endangered species such as the American crocodile, Green turtle, and the Florida panther.

The park offers three campgrounds, lodging, boat and tram tours, biking, boating, and canoeing.

18. Swim At The Venetian Pool In Coral Gables, Florida

The Venetian Pool is more than just a pool. It’s a beautiful oasis that holds 820,000 gallons of water from artesian wells. You’ll see palm trees, coral rock formations, waterfalls, and caves to explore. It has a well-deserved place on the National Register of Historic Places.

It’s conveniently located near shopping at Miracle Mile, the Coral Gables Art Cinema, and the Coral Gables Museum to round out your vacation.

19. Parasail In Key Largo

Parasailing is a regulated sport in the state of Florida. So if parasailing is on your bucket list, you need to find a reputable place to go. Key Largo Parasail has you covered with a top safety record in the country. Parasail across 25 miles of fantastic views of Key Largo, the Atlantic Ocean, and John Pennekamp State Park for the thrill of a lifetime. Reservations are recommended.

20. Step Into The Past At Warm Minerals Springs Park

With an old Florida vibe, Warm Minerals Springs Park is located in North Port, Florida.

It’s believed that the land dates back to the Ice Age. The park earned its place on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places after they extracted several prehistoric creatures like saber-tooth tigers, giant sloths, and even camels from the land.

Rumor has it that the spring has a high mineral content and is known for its healing qualities. It provides visitors with therapeutic and passive activities.

With a year-round temperature of 85 degrees, you can relax in the water, explore the land, or enjoy spa services.

21. Go Back In Time At St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum transports you back in time more than 300 years to Jamaica during the Golden Age of Piracy. The 5000 square feet museum experience has been featured on the History Channel, the Today Show, CNN, and People Magazine. Visitors can see pirates such as Sir Francis Drake and Robert Searles, who played major roles in the history of pirates.

22. Capture The Essence Of Japan At Morikami Museum And Japanese Gardens

Capture the essence of Japan in Delray Beach, Florida, at this 16 acre-park of Japanese gardens and galleries. Learn more about Japan’s rich and diverse culture through art, exhibitions, and six historical gardens. With collections from private collectors and other institutions, the museum has a large collection of exhibitions throughout the year.

23. Appreciate History At The National Naval Aviation Museum

The National Naval Aviation Museum features a large state-of-the-art theatre, interactive exhibits, and a vast collection of aviation artifacts for visitors to see. Discover historic aircraft and learn more about the history of naval aviation at this historic site.

Call ahead as you may require an escort if you do not hold a Department of Defense Identification Card.

24. Be “Edu-tained” At WonderWorks

Located in Orlando, Florida, WonderWorks combines education and entertainment with 100 exhibits that challenge your mind and imagination. Experience extreme weather, wonderful art, physical challenges, space, and an imagination lab. So much for guests to enjoy at this family fun 35,000 square feet attraction.

25. Enjoy Miami Beach Nightlife

Miami Beach nightlife deserves a spot of its own. With nightclubs, salsa dancing, local food, rooftop bars, Miami Beach nightlife has a little something for everyone. You can check out performing arts in South Beach at the New World Center or relax on the beach. Just start walking or cruising along the beach to find something that suits you perfectly.

26. Discover Dry Tortugas National Park

The Dry Tortugas National Park is located in Homestead, Florida, 70 miles west of Key West. It is a 100 square mile park with seven small islands accessible by boat or seaplane. Less than 1% of the park is dry land. It is home to Fort Jefferson, a lighthouse, blue waters, coral reefs, marine life, and an assortment of birdlife. Visitors can go snorkeling and diving, boating, or swimming for wildlife viewing. Discover the history and culture of this national park for an unforgettable experience.

27. Experience Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Experience Destin Harbor Boardwalk in Destin, Florida. It has been named one of the Top 10 “most popular beaches in the United States.” Perhaps you want to swim in the ocean or relax on the beach. But you’ll find parasailing, jet skiing, boating adventures, snorkeling expeditions, dolphin cruises, and more. With beautiful clear water and white sand, it’s a sight to be seen.

28. Explore The Dalí Museum

The Dalí Museum is home to Salvador Dalí’s work and legacy. Salvador  Dalí is a celebrated artist with unusual paintings, sculptures, and film and life-sized art explorations. His creativity was pure and boundless. Visit the Dalí museum to learn more about the people, places, and events that created Salvador Dalí.

29. Take The Ultimate Vacation To Legoland Florida Resort

Another top thing to do in Florida has to be taking the ultimate vacation to Legoland Florida Resort. This theme park, water park, and botanical garden are located in Orlando and Tampa. It’s a Lego-inspired interactive 150-acre theme park with over 50 rides, shows, and attractions.  Its water park includes a wave pool, lazy river, body slides, and interactive water play structures.

Guests are invited to stay at the Pirate Island Hotel or Legoland Hotel with Lego-inspired dining and amenities.

30. Be Inspired At The Florida Museum Of Natural History

The Florida Museum of Natural History is located at the University of Florida campus in Gainesville. The museum inspires people to value the world’s rich and diverse biological and cultural heritage. Several hundreds of live butterflies worldwide live in the Butterfly Rainforest exhibit, and more than 40 million specimens and cultural artifacts are housed on the campus. The museum has a wide range of themes, with temporary exhibits changing throughout the year.

31. Visit Vizcaya Museum And Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the winter home of farming manufacturer James Deering. It is an example of an entrepreneur-built estate. It features a decorative art collection, a native forest, a mangrove shore, a historic village, and 10 acres of gardens. The museum and gardens preserve cultural and environmental resources to engage people and understand the past, present, and future.

32. Walk Through The Swimming Hall of Fame

Located in Ft. Lauderdale, the International Swimming Hall of Fame is the mecca showplace for swimming, diving, and Waterpolo. Here you will find the largest source of aquatic memorabilia and aquatic books, manuscripts, and literature. The complex has over 40 exhibits and illustrates the history of aquatic sports. The displays highlight great athletes and house Olympic medals, and more.

33. Tour Kampong

Take a self-guided tour of the Kampong in Coconut Grove, Florida. It is one of five National Tropical Botanical Gardens where you can marvel at fruit or flowering trees from the tropics, and by a dwarfed 80-year old baobab tree, or smell the prized fragrance of flowering plants. The Kampong has collections from Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. It features 50 varieties of mango and exotic plants.

34. Visit Seaworld Orlando

Seaworld Orlando is more than an aquarium. It is an aquatic theme park filled with numerous exhibits and attractions. Connect with dolphins, snorkel with fish, and feed exotic birds. The team at Seaworld has rescued and rehabilitated more than 39,000 animals. There’s so much to learn at this aquatic paradise with thrilling rides and more.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it…34 fun-filled, educational, and inspirational things to do in Florida. This list is sure to fit any budget or sinking fund with a little planning. It’s time to pack your bags and make a travel checklist because there’s nothing like a vacation to help you manage stress and enjoy life.

This post originally appeared on Savoteur. and can also be viewed on Google web stories as 34 Fun Things to do in Florida.

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From travel gear like luggage and travel hacks, to travel accessories like small but powerful travel hairdryers and noise canceling headphones – this travel gift guide has something for everyone on your holiday shopping list.

This post contains affiliate links. We may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you.

The Best Travel Gifts for Any Traveler:

Under Armour Face Masks

The Underarmour Sportsmask was by far the best thing I found this year — I loved how comfy and non-restrictive its material felt when wearing it. This mask was so popular this past summer and had a waitlist for many months but has now been re-stocked thank goodness. If you are doing any kind of travel, spend the extra money on this face mask and you will be so happy at the end of your journey that you did.

Mini Wet Brushes

The first time I used a wet brush to detangle my hair, I was in love. If you have never used a wet brush before, it will quickly become your new best friend and the one item that you cannot forget at home when you travel. The mini wet brushes are the perfect size, do just as good a job as the full sized version but take up much less space in your luggage. Buy the mini pack of three and put one in each travel bag!

Sony Portable Bluetooth Speaker

We do not travel anywhere without our Sony Portable Bluetooth Speaker! We use it everywhere during our travels, it makes watching movies on a laptop so much more enjoyable and it pumps out the best sound quality for its size. We have tried many travel bluetooth speakers but this one has become our favourite and the battery lasts for up to 12 hours before having to recharge.

Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottles

The Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottles are a recent discovery of mine and one that I wish I had found sooner. I have tried several different brands of silicone toiletry bottles but I always found that they took up too much space and I never used up even half of the product inside. Enter the Matador FlatPak’s which are lightweight, pack flat and allow for a perfect amount of volume inside. They are fantastic for toothpaste and always seem to hold just the right amount of shampoo. These silicone toiletry bottles are now a staple in my travel toiletry kit.

Family Passport Holder

I have been on the hunt for a family passport holder that will handle at least four passports, Nexus Cards, travel insurance cards and paper boarding cards. It has been surprisingly difficult to find one that I like and this family passport holder fits the bill. I also really like the Love & Lore brand as well but I find this one is easier to access.

Sony RX100 Travel Camera

If you don’t feel like lugging around a large camera, the Sony RX100 is the perfect travel camera and has 200mm of zoom. It has manual control and RAW format shooting and although smartphones are gaining in popularity, they just can’t compete with this pocket camera.

Nomad Lane’s Bento Bag

I have owned this incredible canvas carry-on bag from Nomad Lane for years and I couldn’t imagine traveling anywhere without it. It is the perfect size to slide under the seat in front of you or tuck away in the overhead bin. The trolley sleeve allows you to slide it over your roller bag and the USB port allows for easy charging on the go. My favourite part of this bag is how organized it is, meaning you won’t have to dig around endlessly looking for what you need. Check out my extensive review on Nomad Lane’s Bento Bag and learn about all the amazing features that I just can’t travel without!

Burton Luggage

Our family has been traveling with Burton Luggage for over 25 years and we have not found any other luggage that would even consider making us switch brands. Our favourite Burton Luggage is the Expandable Wheelie Flight Deck Carry-on Bag that is incredibly durable, offers many stylish patterns and colors and holds an insane amount of items inside. The wheels are some of the best in the travel world, feeling more like rollerblade wheels than luggage wheels. If you are looking for luggage that looks stylish, is durable and travels well, we highly recommend Burton Luggage.

Travel Eye Mask

If there is one item that I absolutely cannot travel without, regardless of how far I’m going or how long I’m going for, it is my eye mask. I cannot fall asleep on airplanes or hotel rooms without one. This particular eye mask is a favourite of mine and is a recent update to the previous model. If you are on the hunt for the perfect travel eye mask, this one will become your new best friend.

STEAM CLIP Multi-Tool for Travel

I love this multi-tasking steam clip! Not only does it help steam out the wrinkles from clothes by using the heat from the shower, but it can also double as a hanger, use as a smartphone stand and keep your purse or jacket off the restroom floor. I keep this in my purse during travel and it is amazing how much use it gets.

This post can also be viewed on Google web stories as The Best Travel Gifts You Can’t Leave Home Without.

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One way to alleviate some of that travel-related stress is to be prepared by using a travel checklist or two. Doing so will help to ensure you pack what you need (without forgetting anything) and are prepared before you leave on your trip. 

How to Start a Travel Checklist: Determine What You Need for Your Trip

What you need to pack and how far in advance you should prepare when traveling depends on a few things. These 5 areas will help you determine what items you’ll need to put on your travel checklist for the upcoming trip. 

1. Your Destination

International travel requires more advanced planning to ensure you have the right travel visas, up-to-date vaccines or immunizations, and a valid passport. In most cases, you’ll also want to book your flights and accommodations ahead of time, as last-minute international travel can be costly. 

On the other hand, a road trip to visit friends or family that live a few hours away can quickly be arranged on short notice and require less packing and planning. Therefore, when making a travel checklist for your trip, consider your destination. 

2. Travel Companions

Are you packing for yourself, or will you be packing for your children or family as well? If you’re traveling solo, travel-sized items are probably all you need. But if the whole family is coming along, you’ll need to add toiletries for each person on your travel checklist. 

When you’re traveling with friends, there are things you can share, like a hairdryer or hair straightener, maps, travel adaptors, and over-the-counter medication. Share your travel checklist with your friends so you all can pack light!

3. How Long You’ll Be Travelling

The longer your trip, the more items you’ll need. Remember, the more days you’re away from home, the more variance there could be in the weather.  Three in five people surveyed in the OnePoll study had to purchase something to wear while on vacation. So make sure your travel checklist has a wide variety of items, so you don’t bust your travel budget by buying coats or sweatshirts for your entire family.

A small suitcase, backpack, or carry-on will be sufficient for a weekend getaway or overnight business trip. But it might not be enough space for longer trips.  If you haven’t used a suitcase or bag in a while, now is the time to make sure it is still in good working order. 

4. Your Accommodations 

Where you’ll be staying also determines what you should pack and add to your travel checklist.

If you’re staying in a hotel, they typically provide toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and soap and have hairdryers and towels in the bathrooms. But they also can provide things like razors, bandages or first aid, toothbrushes and toothpaste, sewing kits, and games or activities for kids. 

When you’re staying with friends or family or an equipped Airbnb, you can access a washing machine and dryer. Being able to do laundry means you can pack less.  

5. Your Mode of Transportation

If your trip involves flying, you need to pack more carefully than you would if you’re traveling by car, bus, or train. One thing you’ll need to do ahead of time is to check the dimensions of your luggage, as the oversized baggage fees airlines charge can be hefty. 

You should also pack a carry-on bag that includes a few travel essentials just in case you arrive at your destination, but your suitcase doesn’t. This should consist of a fresh change of clothes (or at least underwear), your essential travel documents, chargers, medication, and anything else you cannot survive a day or two without. Don’t forget to add these must-have items (or duplicates) to your travel checklist. 

If you are packing liquids or gels in your carry-on bag, make sure they are travel-sized (3.4 ounces or smaller) and in clear plastic containers; otherwise, they won’t pass security. If you’re traveling on a budget, having to throw away your items and purchase new items at your destination can be not just inconvenient but costly. 

Finishing Your Travel Checklist: Things To Pack

Now that you’ve considered your traveling needs, it’s time to finalize your travel checklist. You may not need to bring everything listed below, but build your own travel checklist for each trip by running through the items below. 

1. Travel Documents

• Passport and other identification 
• Reservations: hotel, car rental, excursions
• A copy of your boarding pass – either printed or saved as a photo on your cell phone
• Any COVID-related documentation (test results, immunization card, etc.)
• Map or guidebook
• Your itinerary

2. Clothing

• A nice outfit – in case you decide to go for a fancy dinner or to see a show
• Several casual outfits – preferably one per day, per person
• A sweater or hoodie
• Socks, underwear, and other delicates
• Swimwear – if there’s a swimming pool or beach 
• Pajamas
• Shoes – dress shoes, sneakers, flats, sandals, or boots with a resealable bag to prevent getting your clothes dirty
• A scarf – which can also be used as a head covering, a face covering, a shawl, a travel pillow, a light blanket, or an accessory
• A coat or jacket
• Gloves and a hat – for cold destinations 
• Activity specific clothing (e.g., hiking, biking, running)
• 3-5 Masks

3. Toiletries & Medication

• A toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
• Hand sanitizer
• Deodorant
• A comb or hairbrush
• Hairstyling products and styling tools
• Soap and face wash
• Lotion and moisturizer 
• Shaving cream and razors
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Make-up
• Nail clippers
• Sunscreen
• First aid kit 
• Prescription medication with a copy of your prescription 
• Painkillers or other over-the-counter medication such as gastrointestinal medicine and motion-sickness pills
• Contact lenses and solution, prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses

4. Travel Essentials

• Cash, credit cards, and debit cards
• Cellphone and charger
• Sunglasses
• A bag or large purse
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes
• Electrical converter or travel adaptor – if traveling to another country
• Portable charger

5. Entertainment

• Laptop and charger
• Headphones or earbuds
• A camera, memory cards, and charger
• Snacks
• Toys or travel games
• Books, magazines, or an eReader and charger
• Notebook and pen

6. Additional Items

• A towel
• Your own pillow or pillowcase
• A watch
• A sleep-mask
• Earplugs
• Face-masks or face-coverings
• A money belt or other anti-theft accessories
• A reusable water bottle – collapsible water bottles work best
• Business cards – if you are traveling for business or could potentially make business connections during your trip
• An extra empty bag or small suitcase – especially if you plan to shop or bring back souvenirs 

Travel Checklist: Pre-Vacation Must Do’s

Planning for a trip requires more than just booking your tickets and packing your bags. You should do things ahead of time to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible and that everything at home is taken care of. 

1. Buy Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is important to have, especially if you are traveling internationally. It can cover medical emergencies, lost luggage, accidents, and more. Trip cancellation coverage will also reimburse you if you have to cancel your trip due to an illness, death, natural disaster, jury duty, or job loss. Look into what coverage you already have, as some credit cards and health insurance policies will include coverage for traveling. 

2. Check Your Passport & Visas 

If you are leaving your home country, you need to check your passport and what visas are required well ahead of time. Research the immigration laws and give yourself enough time to get the proper documentation. 

Having an expired passport, not enough space in your passport or improper visas can mean you will be denied entry into certain countries. Being denied entry will not only ruin your plans but could cost you thousands of dollars, as you will have to leave the country on the next available flight.  

3. Visit Your Doctor

As we all know, vaccinations are an important thing to consider when traveling. However, even if you aren’t leaving the country, these can vary by state or province. To be sure you have the right vaccinations, check out this guide from the CDC. 

Visiting your doctor is also important to ensure you’ll have enough of your prescription medication. They can also advise you on any other medical measures you should take. 

4. Call Your Credit Card Companies

You don’t want your credit card to be frozen due to suspicious or unusual activity, especially when international travel is involved. So give your credit card company a call before you leave, letting them your destination and how long you’ll be traveling. It’s a must for your travel checklist. 

5. Arrange for a House-Sitter or Pet-Sitter

It’s always a good idea to arrange for someone to keep an eye on your home while you are away. Asking a friend, family member, or trusted neighbor to pick up your mail, water your plants, feed your fish, and check that everything is okay will help give you peace of mind.

If you have pets or would feel more comfortable knowing someone is around, you could have someone temporarily move in while you’re traveling.

Otherwise, be sure to arrange proper care for your pets by hiring a pet sitter or boarding them at a kennel or pet hotel. 

6. Clean Up 

Trust me. You do not want to return to a messy home after having a nice, relaxing vacation. So take some time before you leave to tidy up. 

Go through your fridge and either use or get rid of anything that will spoil. Take out the trash. Make sure you have clean dishes and clean clothes ready to go. You will thank yourself!

Quick Tips for Packing Your Luggage

How strategic you pack your luggage also depends on where you’re going and how you’re traveling. 

For example, if you are taking a road trip alone, you have plenty of space in your vehicle for your luggage. But if you’re backpacking through Europe for a month, you’ll want to pack carefully. 

Here are a few quick tips that can help you pack smart: 

• Choose one large suitcase vs. multiple small bags 
• Hard-sided suitcases reduce the risk of your items being damaged, but they aren’t as flexible
• Use a well-designed carryon bag that is organized with lots of pockets
• Use packing tubes or roll your clothes to maximize space
• Use your shoes to pack small things like socks, electronic chargers, sunglasses, or fragile items
• Keep your important items (like identification, your wallet, and medication) in your purse, pockets, carry-on bag, or a money-belt 

This post originally appeared on Savoteur.

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TRAVEL GIFTS FOR YOUR NEXT VACATION