Category: Travel

Does Orlando CityPASS Save Money on Theme Park Tickets?

Karyn Locke
Orlando CityPASS logo Orlando theme park ticket prices

With the recent announcement of the new official Orlando CityPASS that includes four Orlando theme parks, I had to ask myself it really will save me money. Including Orlando theme park tickets for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and LEGOLAND Florida, the concept seems like a great idea – but is it a money saver? The answer is very surprising.  At this point, I visit the Orlando, FL, area at least twice a year. But, of the four major Orlando theme parks, I only have a Walt…

Best Winter Day Trips from Pittsburgh

Karyn Locke
Best winter day trips from Pittsburgh: Ohiopyle State Park.

Visiting Pittsburgh this winter and looking for some fun, creative winter day trip options? From skiing to wine tasting, here are the best winter day trips from Pittsburgh all under a two-hour drive.  I’ve lived near Pittsburgh for most of my life, so I know how precarious the winters can be, especially when it comes to driving. I also know I can get stir crazy and have to get outdoors at least once during the winter. So, I wanted to create fun winter day trip options that have easy drives.…

The Complete Guide Where to Find Magic Kingdom Characters and Princesses

Karyn Locke
Where to find Magic Kingdom characters and Princesses: Chip 'N Dale in Town Square

A visit to Walt Disney World would not be complete without a character meet and greet or two. Or twenty. And, compliments of there being so many to choose from, especially in Magic Kingdom, narrowing down the logistics and locations can be rough. To help with planning your next visit, here’s a complete list of where to find Magic Kingdom characters and Princesses. When I started visiting Magic Kingdom with my family, I’ll admit, the amount of attractions, rides, and Disney characters was overwhelming. Add in the fact that the…

Comparing Pittsburgh’s Providence Point to Luxury Travel

Karyn Locke
One of the apartment kitchens in Providence Point.

Providence Point in Pittsburgh is lovely, there’s no way around it. And, when it comes to senior living, it’s top of the line. So, exactly  how does it compare to luxury travel (and why would you want to live there)? Here’s the scoop on Pittsburgh’s Providence Point and why I may have found a five-star, all-inclusive resort in the city.  I’m in no hurry to retire. Having written that, having an opportunity to check out the latest in senior living piqued my curiosity. And when I heard about all of…

First Night Pittsburgh 2019 Guide: Silver Anniversary Events

Karyn Locke
First Night Pittsburgh 2019: Events

Christmas 2018 isn’t even here yet and already I’m thinking about First Night Pittsburgh 2019. Don’t get me wrong, I adore Christmas. But I can’t help but think about New Year’s Eve in Pittsburgh. This year to celebrate its 25th Anniversary, First Night Pittsburgh 2019 is having a Silver Jubilee and that means bigger and better than ever. From where to park, what to see and eat, and where to get admission buttons, here’s our guide to First Night Pittsburgh 2019.    I’ve been lucky enough to attend several First Night Pittsburgh nights…

PIT Airport Guide for Families | Tips for Navigating Pittsburgh International Airport

Karyn Locke
PIT Airport Guide for families and pets

Flying in or out of Pittsburgh International Airport and want the scoop on what you can expect when you arrive? From where to let the kids play to parking costs, here’s our PIT Airport Guide for families: Tips & Tricks for Navigating Pittsburgh International Airport. All photos courtesy of Pittsburgh International Airport. I’ve been to PIT Airport so many times I couldn’t even count, whether flying or not. And, while it may seem overwhelming, especially when flying with the kids, it’s a really good airport for families. Here’s what to do,…

2018 Columbus Holiday Guide

Karyn Locke

There’s a reason that Ohio’s capitol sits almost perfectly in the center of the state: so all of its residents have easy access! If you’ve never visited Columbus, Ohio, you really need to start planning a trip. If you’ve never visited during the holidays? You’re really missing out on the merriment!  Beginning on November 18, 2018 Columbus holiday events are not to be missed! Check out our nine favorite reasons to head into the city for the holiday fun this year for this year’s Columbus Holiday Guide. Man, I can’t get enough of…

2018 Pittsburgh Holiday Guide

Karyn Locke
Colorful glow sticks at Phipps' 2018 Holiday Magic: Let it Glow! outdoor Winter Garden. Photo Credit: Steven Locke

Families all bundled up whirling their way around a giant Christmas tree surrounded by the clippity-clop of horse hooves. Kids staring at the sky, mouths gaped open in awe of the tens of thousands of Christmas lights. A German Market and fireworks lighting up the night. Can you picture it? Every holiday season, Pittsburgh goes all out and sets this picturesque scene for its visitors and residents. Beginning November 16th and spanning from Point State Park to Kennywood Park, Pittsburgh holiday events are not to be missed! Check out our 11…

How to Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort: Your Questions Answered

Karyn Locke
A larger than life Minion in the Universal Holiday Parade Featuring Macy's. Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort.

Headed to Universal Orlando Resort for Christmas this year? Looking for the best things to do at Universal Orlando Resort (UOR) when you visit? From Harry Potter to The Grinch, here’s how to Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort and answers to your top questions. While many families enjoying staying at home for Christmas, there are probably just as many that love to travel over the holiday. Personally, if I’m traveling, I couldn’t think of a more fun time than visiting an Orlando theme park during Christmastime, and Universal Orlando is…

8 Cool Things You May Not Know About Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Karyn Locke
d Resort's gorgeous exterior. Photo Credit: Karyn Locke

Are you thinking about a visit to Nemacolin Woodlands Resort? Or maybe you’ve been, but really didn’t have a chance to check out everything? Either way, it has so much to offer its guests. From an art studio named after a surrealist to wild animals, here are eight cool things you may not know about Nemacolin Woodlands Resort! Lions and Tigers – and Goats? Oh, my! All the Zen Surrealist Studio Up, up, and Away! Baja, Baby! By, George! Ding Ding Ding! Fat Bird Slept Here My first visit to…