Pic Credit: Mamma Fairy Blog

Any regular readers will know that most of my travels are family-focused, usually with my husband and children in tow. But this trip to Vienna was something a little different, a special getaway with my mum to say a huge thank you for everything she does for us. We would genuinely be lost without her and how good she is to us all.

After doing a lot of research we decided on the Vienna Marriott Hotel, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like the perfect choice.

A Warm Welcome (and the Little Touches That Matter)

First impressions count, and the Vienna Marriott sets the tone beautifully. We were greeted with a sparkling glass of wine on arrival and a genuine warm welcome. The lady who checked us in was so nice and kind to us and made us feel personally welcomed.

The staff throughout the hotel were exceptional, but a special mention has to go to Sarah from the Marketing team, who truly embodies everything you expect from a five-star luxury brand: professional, warm, attentive, and passionate about the guest experience. Encounters like that stay with you long after check-out.

Our Junior Suite: Spacious, Stylish, and Brand New

We stayed in a Junior Suite, and it was honestly fabulous. Newly refurbished, the space felt modern, elegant, and incredibly comfortable exactly what you want after long days exploring a city like Vienna.

The suite was  itself contained two good size double beds, a seating area which was bright, spacious, and beautifully finished.  It’s the kind of room that works just as well for a couple’s break, a mother–daughter trip, or even a family stay when travelling with children. In fact it was my first thought when I entered the room was that it would be perfect too for our family to visit. Have already promised them id take them to Vienna some day hopefully soon!

Location, Location, Location

One of the Vienna Marriott’s greatest strengths is its exceptional location. Situated on the famous Ringstrasse, directly opposite Stadtpark, the hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the city on foot. Given we only had a very short time in Vienna, we really wanted to make the most of this trip and location was a key factor in our decision to choose the Vienna Marriott Hotel.

We walked everywhere, to historic landmarks, cafés, shops, and cultural sights, never once feeling the need for public transport. For anyone visiting Vienna for the first time (or returning and wanting to soak it all in), this central location is a huge advantage. I had asked at the hotel and everybody I spoke to said how safe the city is and we really did feel that, we were walking admiring the architecture at 10pm and it felt calm and safe exactly what we were looking for as two females travelling.

Continue Reading

Some places wrap themselves around you quietly. No fuss, no fanfare, just warmth, calm, and that deep exhale you didn’t realise you’d been holding. Aurora Hill Resort was one of those places for us. After busy travel days and big Lapland adventures, this is where we slowed right down. Where mittens dried by the door, boots lined up in a row, and evenings felt soft and safe, the way family holidays should. We had just left their sister property Postmaster Hotel, which was our second visit and honestly it was really exceptional so the Aurora Hill  Resort cabins had a lot to live up to.

Arriving Was Effortless (and So Welcome)

What a view from the bedroom

Travel days with kids can be long, no matter how magical the destination. So the ease of check-in at Aurora Hill was such a gift.  No desks. No queues. No paperwork.  Just a simple key-code system (via WhatsApp) that let us arrive, step inside, and settle immediately. And check-out was just as easy, no rushing, no stress, just one last look out at the snow before we left.  It set the tone for the whole stay: calm, uncomplicated, and thoughtfully designed for families.

Cosy Cabins Made for Real Family Life

The cabins themselves are warm, welcoming, and perfectly laid out for family stays. Not showy  just genuinely comfortable. Small but perfect kitchen, good wifi, good TV, soft lighting, snug beds, and space to stretch out after cold days outdoors. It felt like a place where children could relax and parents could finally sit down with a cup of tea and breathe. We had the family suite which has one double bedroom and a sofa bed for the kids. The location is prime for Northern Lights but we weren’t lucky during our time there.  A perfect the reason to go back again.

There is also a Kota on site if you want to light it and grill food. Kids loved this part.

Continue Reading

Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

Some places feel instantly special, the kind where everything slows the moment you arrive. Lapland Winter Park, set just outside Rovaniemi, was exactly that for us. Calm, unhurried, and quietly magical, it felt less like a day trip and more like stepping into a winter film set.  Snow-covered trees, crisp Arctic air, and a sense of space that’s hard to come by especially when travelling as a family and to the home of Santa at possibly the busiest time of the year.

So Much to Do, All in One Beautiful Place

One of the things I loved most was how much there is to do on site, without it ever feeling hectic. Everything is close by, well organised, and designed so families can enjoy it at their own pace. You purchase an area ticket which is €39 for kids 3-11 and €69 for kids 12+ and adults.  Much of the below is included there are a number of extra paid for activities which I have noted below.

• Ice Karting

Such a highlight. Slippery, laughter-filled fun that had everyone smiling from ear to ear. Watching confidence grow lap by lap was pure joy exciting without being overwhelming. My youngest was just at the height requirements so worth bearing that in mind. That you need to be 150cm minimum. Drive time is 30 minutes which we found plenty for our kids.  This is extra not included in the area ticket.

Continue Reading

If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know that travel is our family’s love language. Whether it’s chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø, soaking up sunshine in Dubrovnik, or exploring the magic of Lapland, our adventures have one thing in common — I’m always looking for clever ways to make family travel more affordable and accessible.

So, when I heard about the new partnership between Aer Lingus and Tesco Ireland, I actually smiled out loud (is that a thing?). Because this one’s a real game changer for families like ours who love to travel and love a good deal too.

Turning Everyday Shopping into Travel Adventures

From now on, you can convert your Tesco Clubcard vouchers into Avios, the reward currency of AerClub (Aer Lingus’ loyalty programme). For every €2.50 in Tesco vouchers, you’ll get 600 Avios  which can be used towards flights, upgrades, hotels, car hire and more.

To put that into real terms  just €17.50 in vouchers could cover a reward flight to Paris, London or Amsterdam (4,000 Avios + taxes). Imagine that a few weekly shops at Tesco and you could be sipping coffee by the Seine, strolling along the canals, or planning your next family city break!

And if you’ve been dreaming bigger (hello, New York!), €55 in Tesco vouchers could get you enough Avios for a flight to the Big Apple. Each apple in your Tesco basket really could bring you closer to the Big Apple.

Why This Feels Like a Win for Families

Continue Reading

Pic Credit: Hotel Washington

Planning a family trip to Washington, D.C. can feel exciting… and a little overwhelming if im totally honest. With limited time, jet lag and young kids we wanted to see it all but we were realistic about what we could do in the time we were there. Between trying to hit all the big sights and keeping the boys entertained, the right hotel can make or break a trip. For us, Hotel Washington was an absolute winner. From its perfect location right by the White House to thoughtful touches like a birthday cake for my son, it really made our stay feel special.

Location, Location, Location

Honestly, you couldn’t ask for a better spot. And if im being totally honest it was the location that sealed the deal for us when looking at hotel option of which there are many! Hotel Washington is just steps from the White House, which made our tour there a breeze. Less walking = fewer complaints from little legs (and happier parents!), so that was a huge win.

We also loved that so many iconic landmarks were within easy walking distance — the National Mall, the Washington Monument, museums galore. Being able to pop back to the hotel for a quick snack or a breather made all the difference between a chaotic day and a fun one.

Mamma F Tip: Staying central with kids is a lifesaver. You’ll thank yourself when you can sneak back to the room for a nap or just to recharge mid-day.

Breakfast That Really Hits the Spot

Breakfast is a make-or-break moment on family trips, and Hotel Washington absolutely delivered. The big highlight for the kids? Steak and eggs — perfectly cooked and so hearty it kept us fuelled for hours of exploring. The coffee was refilled, the juices refilled and the service really was top notch.

The boys happily tucked in to the steak and eggs each morning, and there were plenty of other choices if steak isn’t your thing. I loved the salmon bagel and don’t miss the crab benedict. Pic opposite. It was unbelievably good. My husband loved the ham and cheese croissant. The portions are very generous and really kept us full for the day.

Mamma F Tip: Portion sizes are generous, so don’t be afraid to share plates with kids. Saves on food waste and keeps everyone full for the day ahead.

Continue Reading

We recently spent a few days in Old Town Alexandria, just across the river from Washington, D.C. It turned out to be one of those trips where every corner had a story, every meal was memorable, and we instantly felt at home.  Shamefully, it hadn’t been on my radar up to now but here’s why it should be on your list too.

1. A Warm Welcome at the Hyatt Centric

Our base was the Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria, and it couldn’t have been a better choice. We had a spacious room with two double beds – perfect for a family stay – and a lovely street view that gave us that Old Town charm even from the window.

Breakfast was included each morning, which made starting the day so easy (and delicious!). And when it came time to leave, we asked for a late checkout – no problem at all. The staff were genuinely kind and accommodating, which made such a difference. The hotel had a lovely relaxed friendly vibe.  For us the overriding thing about this hotel is its location. The location is right on the famous King Street and you can walk to the shops, waterfront and restaurant areas so easily.

Stylish, central, and so comfortable, it set the tone for the whole trip. I do have a full blog post on the hotel in the works which I will link here when its completed.

2. Food Adventures at Every Turn

We (literally) ate our way through Old Town and loved every bite. There is so much choice and we didn’t have any issues with not booking places we were able to pop in to wherever took our fancy on at day. Some highlights

• IndoChen for vibrant flavours and cosy vibes. Located at the Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria, we ate here the day we arrived and kids adore the food.
• Like typical Irish, we popped into the local Irish bar (s) for a pint! There are two located along King Street so we did both!
• Emmy Squared Pizza served up a slice of heaven. Not only that the manager made my eldest’s birthday very special.
• Call Your Mother was the perfect bagel stop for lunch. This is located very close to the hotel, its very instagrammable and the bagels are seriously good.
• And of course, Jeni’s Ice Cream – huge scoops, worth every calorie! There was a queue here literally all day every day until late in the evening. Best ice cream ever the kids reckoned.

Food in Old Town is not just good, it’s fun.

Continue Reading

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know I have a soft spot for unique events — the sort that have you smiling for days afterwards. So when I heard that the DroneArt Show by Fever was coming to Dublin this August, I knew it would be one for the calendar. Think hundreds of synchronised drones painting pictures in the night sky, all set to live classical music — it sounds magical already, doesn’t it?

Pic Credit: Fever

The show takes place at Leopardstown Racecourse on the 28th, 29th and 30th of August 2025. The performance starts at 9 pm but doors open at 7.30 pm, which is handy if, like me, you like to get your bearings, grab something to eat, and settle in before the lights go down.

Here are some tips I’ve picked up while planning our visit:

1 – Book your parking early
There is parking on-site, but you can book it in advance when you’re buying your tickets — and I’d recommend doing that to save stress on the night. You can pay on arrival too, but it’s one less thing to think about if it’s already sorted.

2 – Dress for the weather
This is Ireland after all! It might be August, but evenings can get chilly, so bring layers, maybe even a blanket if you’re prone to feeling the cold. Comfort equals more enjoyment, especially if you’ve got kids with you.

3 – Arrive early and make a night of it
With doors opening 90 minutes before showtime, you can take your time finding a good spot, getting snacks (they’ve got food and drink options, including veggie and gluten-free), and soaking up the atmosphere before the sky lights up.

Continue Reading

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Planning a trip to Washington D.C. with kids? You’re in for a fantastic family adventure! The nation’s capital is one of the most kid-friendly cities in the U.S. – packed with hands-on museums, wide-open spaces to explore, iconic landmarks, and a food scene even picky eaters will love. Best of all? So much of it is completely free.

Here are our top tips to help you make the most of your time in Washington D.C. with kids:

1. Take Advantage of All the Free Museums

D.C. is museum heaven – and most of them are totally free! These are must-dos for families:

• National Museum of Natural History – Dinosaurs, a giant squid, sparkling gems, and more. It’s a kid favourite.

• National Air and Space Museum – Touch a moon rock, sit in a cockpit, and learn how flight works. Newly renovated and more engaging than ever.

• National Museum of American History – Home to everything from the original Star-Spangled Banner to vintage toys and tech.

• National Zoo – Free entry and a lovely walk! Say hi to the elephants and big cats.

📍 Tip: Try visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, and check ahead for special exhibits or kids’ programs. For most its worth reserving tickets online in advance, some can only be booked 30 days ahead so what we did was schedule alerts to remind us to log on to reserve saves us arriving early morning to queue up for same day tickets.

2. It’s Incredibly Walkable – buggy-Friendly Too!

One of the best things about D.C.? Everything you want to see is within walking (or buggy pushing) distance. The National Mall is flat, open, and lined with museums, memorials, and grassy areas perfect for picnics or a quick play break. Another reason to add Washington D.C. with kids to your list.

👣 Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes! You’ll rack up steps without even noticing.

3. Embrace the Outdoors

Pic Credit: Pixabay

If your kids need to burn off energy, you’re in luck. D.C. is full of green spaces:

• Tidal Basin paddle boats (spring & summer) – Fun way to see the Jefferson Memorial.

• U.S. Botanic Garden – Great for little explorers with a children’s garden.

• National Mall bike rentals – Even trailers and tag-alongs for kids!

And don’t miss a walk around the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument – surprisingly thrilling for kids when seen up close.

4. Iconic Food = Happy Kids

D.C.’s food scene isn’t just for foodies – there are plenty of crowd-pleasers for little ones too. A few iconic bites:

• Ben’s Chili Bowl – Legendary spot for hot dogs

• Thomas Sweet or Ice Cream Jubilee – Locally loved ice cream.

• &pizza – Seriously yummy customisable pies perfect for picky eaters.

• Founding Farmers – Delicious comfort food with kids’ menus and big portions.

Picky eaters? No worries. You’ll find everything from noodles to burgers to global eats that appeal to all ages.

Continue Reading

Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

During our recent trip to Finland, having spent many hours pouring over TripAdvisor reviews we settled on  Grand Post Hotel in Rovaniemi, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our Arctic adventure.  Tucked right in the heart of town, this hotel is a hidden gem that made our Lapland experience smooth, cozy, and unforgettable. It was originally a post office building from the 1950s which has been renovated to a very high standard.  A huge feature of this hotel is the original working lift which is almost a tourist attraction itself.

Update 2025: 

Just a couple of update since I wrote this:

• The Hotel has now been renamed Postmaster Hotel.
• There are plans to have a bistro and bar for the Winter months, in my view this will really elevate this hotel, been able to grab a drink or light bite as well as cooking in the mini kitchens is a huge plus
• Saving the best update for last – Postmaster Hotel and Staylapland have given us a code for 10% off activities and the accommodations for this upcoming season – THEMAMMAFAIRYBLOG

Home Away From Home

What really stood out for us was the fully equipped kitchen in our room. After long, adventure-filled days, being able to prepare a warm meal or even just a quick snack for the kids was a lifesaver. It gave us the flexibility to eat on our own schedule and saved us from always having to dine out—perfect for families like ours. We used the Wolt app for delivery of groceries when we arrived and pizzas another night. It was super quick and efficient.

The included breakfast each morning was a lovely touch. It featured a great variety of both continental and Finnish options, and we always left the breakfast room full and ready to take on the day. The coffee alone was worth getting up for!

Comfort Meets Convenience

Our room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and designed with a modern Nordic flair. There was plenty of room for the kids to sprawl out, and we never felt cramped. It’s clear this hotel was designed with families in mind. Everything from the large bathroom to the clever storage made our stay feel effortless. Some rooms also come with Saunas which would be a lovely addition.

The location of the Grand Post Hotel couldn’t have been more ideal—just a short walk to Rovaniemi’s shops, cafes, and attractions. It’s also conveniently close to the railway station and bus stops, making it easy to get around without a car or having to rely on taxis which are expensive in Rovaniemi.

Stay Lapland – Adventure at Your Doorstep

A huge bonus of staying at the Grand Post Hotel is that it’s home to Stay Lapland, a fantastic local tour company. We booked two unforgettable excursions through them: a husky adventure and an ice fishing snowmobile adventure on separate days. I do have separate post coming on these so do check back in the meantime there is loads of highlights saved on my instagram.

Both experiences were incredibly well-organized and family-friendly and kids and adults loved every minute. The husky safari was pure magic—the dogs were energetic and well cared for, and gliding through snowy forests was like stepping into a fairy tale. The next day’s snowmobiling tour was just as thrilling. Kids rode in the sled while the adults drove, and the views were breathtaking. While we didn’t catch anything fishing we still loved every minute.

Having Stay Lapland based right at the hotel meant no stressful planning or commuting—we literally stepped out the door and onto the bus for our next adventure. I can’t explain how handy this was when traveling with kids.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a trip to Rovaniemi, we wholeheartedly recommend Grand Post Hotel. Between the comfortable rooms with kitchens, generous breakfast, prime location, and access to top-notch tours through Stay Lapland, it offers everything you could ask for in a family-friendly winter escape.

We left with frozen fingers, full hearts, and a strong desire to come back again someday. And its not if its when!

NEW for 2025 – Aurora Hill Resort

We are super excited to share that the Aurora Hill Resort will open in November 2025. Nestled in the stunning Ollerovaara area, just 12 minutes from Rovaniemi city center, our resort offers breath-taking nature views and one of the best chances to witness the Northern Lights — right from your cabin.

Crafted in partnership with a local Rovaniemi builder, each cabin combines comfort, quality, and authentic Lapland charm.

Accommodation consists of:

• 2 Aurora Suites (1–2 guests)

• 4 Aurora Suite Plus (1–3 guests)

• 4 Aurora Family Suites (1–4 guests)

All cabins feature a private bathroom, kitchenette, and heat pump for year-round comfort. A do-it-yourself breakfast is included and prepared for your arrival. Reconnect with nature — and maybe catch the Aurora dancing above.

Note: Collaboration with no expectation to write this review. Views our own. 

What is the Chicago CityPASS?

When planning a trip to Chicago, deciding between a CityPASS and paying for attractions individually can significantly impact your budget and experience.  We had used New York CityPASS earlier this year and were so impressed at the value that we had high hope to for the Chicago CityPASS.

The Chicago CityPASS offers access to five premier attractions, including the Shedd Aquarium and Skydeck Chicago, along with three choices from the following:

Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower)

Pic Credit: Mamma F Blog

Skydeck Chicago, located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. At 1,353 feet high, it provides unparalleled 360-degree views of Chicago and beyond, stretching up to four states on clear days. The main highlight is The Ledge, a series of glass boxes that extend four feet out from the building. Standing on the clear floor, visitors can look directly down to the streets far below, providing a thrilling and slightly nerve-wracking experience.

It’s a popular spot for breathtaking photos and once-in-a-lifetime memories. The Chicago CityPASS offers expediated entry to the main building and an added surprise it also includes expediated entry to the Ledge experience. The regular queue was really long so this was a very welcome added bonus.

Top Tips:

• Locals still refer to this as the Sears Tower, you might even find they correct you when you call it the Willis Tower!
• Its really well run in terms of queuing and the expediated entry is a massive plus
• Do download your tickets to your phones wallet or screen shot. The mobile coverage wasn’t great up there and it took a while to get the tickets loaded for the Ledge to show our CityPASS
• You only get 90 seconds on the Ledge so do make the most of it! One you conquer your fear of heights!!
• Keep an eye on the weather and via the CityPASS app you can reschedule if the visibility is poor or weather very bad
• The Color Factory is located in the same building as you exit and its a lovely experience. Not included with the CityPASS

Cost: Family total cost including fees and charges – $229 (approx €216)

Continue Reading