Fairy Travels

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.

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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.

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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.

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You know this already, but it’s worth saying out loud: a family ski trip isn’t just a holiday, it’s a full-body experience in logistics, emotions, and sheer stamina. The magic happens, yes, but only when you feel equipped enough to let it. This guide is here to help you do exactly that, without the overwhelm and without pretending that kids suddenly turn into calm, coordinated angels the moment they touch snow.

Why Your Confidence Matters More to Your Kids Than Perfect Technique

Pic Credit: Pexels

Kids read you before they read the terrain. They copy the tone you set. If you’re visibly tense, they’ll assume there’s something to worry about, even if all you’re doing is overthinking the angle of your ski tips. What helps far more is showing them steady energy. Not expert-level moves. Not flawless stops. Just the sense that you’re okay, and this is supposed to be fun.

That’s why your own prep matters. A few warm-up runs on an easy slope before the day kicks off can reset your mindset. You let your muscles wake up, you shake out the nerves, and you step into parent mode feeling grounded instead of chaotic. It’s those calm micro-moments, not technical mastery, that build trust. 

How You Prepare for Mixed-Ability Days Without Feeling Stretched Thin

Every family eventually hits the moment where one kid wants to fly down a blue run, and another wants to stay glued to you on the beginner slope. The trick isn’t trying to be everywhere at once; it’s planning for different speeds before you even zip up jackets.

Think in layers. Create a loose structure where everyone gets their version of progress. Maybe the more confident skier gets the first hour with another adult while you focus on the slower-paced child. Then you switch. The goal isn’t fairness down to the minute. It’s making sure everyone gets enough time at their own level so frustration doesn’t creep in.

And here’s the part people forget: breaks are not interruptions. They’re part of the rhythm. Stopping for hot chocolate, adjusting gear, or letting someone decompress isn’t “losing time”, it’s how you keep the day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

Where Outside Help Fits Naturally into Your Plan, so You Can Actually Relax

There’s a moment on every family ski trip when you realise you’re trying to parent, instruct, motivate, and troubleshoot all at once. That’s usually the moment when outside support becomes your biggest asset. This is where ski lessons fit beautifully, not as something you “should” book, but as something that gives you breathing room.

Good instructors know how to explain things in ways kids absorb instantly. They introduce structure, consistency, and a fresh voice that doesn’t carry the emotional weight of “but Mom said…” It also means you get an hour or two to ski at your own pace, reconnect with your partner, or simply enjoy being an adult in the mountains again.

The Overlooked Essentials That Shape a Smooth First Morning

A smooth start rarely comes from big decisions. It comes from tiny, practical ones: laying out clothes the night before, checking glove liners, packing snacks you know your kids actually eat, and making peace with the fact that the first 20 minutes always feel slightly messy. What matters is that you keep things moving forward without turning the morning into a drill. 

Set the tone early. Stay flexible. Remember that your kids measure the day by how it felt, not how “efficient” it was.

A calm, prepared parent turns a snowy morning into a story kids will talk about for years. And you’re absolutely capable of setting that tone.

Note: This is a collaborative post

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

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Chicago has this special energy where the city feels alive, colorful, and full of stories waiting to be stepped into. When you explore it with kids, the city opens up in a completely new way. Suddenly, staircases become adventures, museums turn into treasure hunts, and even the lakeshore feels like a giant playground. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, tweens, or a whole mix of ages, Chicago offers plenty of ways to have fun as a family without the day feeling rushed or stressful.

Let’s take a fresh and unique look at how to enjoy Chicago with kids, mixing excitement, creativity, and a little bit of laid-back family time.

Kick Things Off at Chicago’s Most Loved Spots

There are certain places in the city that just work when you’re with kids. They’re memorable and simple to explore, yet filled with a sense of wonder.

Millennium Park
Most families start here, and it’s not just because of “The Bean” (Cloud Gate). This area feels like the heart of the city. Kids can run freely, make funny faces in the sculpture’s reflections, or play in the Crown Fountain where water pours from the giant digital faces. The open-air art shows and music events add a lively buzz that keeps everyone curious.

Maggie Daley Park
Right next to Millennium Park is a place that feels like it was designed to make kids forget about screens entirely. Maggie Daley Park’s Play Garden is full of creative structures: pirate ship-style climbing rigs, hidden slides, and winding bridges. In winter, it transforms into an ice-skating ribbon that loops around artful landscaping, making the season feel magical rather than chilly.

Navy Pier
While Navy Pier is famous, it never gets old for kids. They love the Ferris wheel towering high above Lake Michigan, the carousel, and just watching boats drift in and out of the harbor. If the weather changes, step into the Chicago Children’s Museum located right on the pier.

Try Something Active and Playful

Kids need space to move. Thankfully, Chicago delivers plenty of ways to do that while also keeping things fun for adults.

The Lakefront Trail
Spanning miles along the water, the Lakefront Trail is great for walking, bike riding, stroller cruising, or rollerblading. The breeze, skyline, and sparkling lake create a perfect balance of calm and excitement. Pack snacks, take breaks at beaches or grassy picnic areas, and let the day unfold slowly.

Roll, Ride, or Try Something New
Chicago has several open plazas and smooth park paths that are perfect for wheels of all kinds. If your kids have been thinking about learning to skateboard, the city is home to some beginner-friendly skateboard lessons where children can practice balance, confidence, and coordination in a safe, encouraging environment. And honestly, cheering them on as they roll down their first ramp is a moment you won’t forget.

Take Curiosity Indoors on Cooler Days

When the weather turns cloudy, cold, or just unpredictable (very Chicago), there are indoor spaces that feel just as adventurous.

Museum of Science and Industry
This is one of those museums where every room feels like a different universe. Kids can explore a life-sized submarine, walk through a mirror maze, or learn how tornados form. It’s hands-on, visually impressive, and endlessly fascinating.

Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd is a calm, glowing world under the sea. Sharks glide through blue water, penguins waddle with personality, and jellyfish float like living art. Shows and interactive areas keep kids glued to the moment.

The Field Museum
Introduce your family to Sue, one of the world’s most famous T. rex fossils. The Field Museum is a gateway to ancient history, wildlife, global cultures, and really big questions. It’s the kind of place where kids leave with wide eyes and new stories to tell.

Relax in Chicago’s Outdoor Retreats

Not every family outing needs a big plan. Sometimes the best memories come from slow moments.

Pic Credit: Mamma F Blog

Lincoln Park & Zoo
This area brings together gardens, ponds, city views, and a free zoo. Walk at your own pace. Let kids explore. Stop for photos. This is a beautiful way to spend a half or full day without rushing.

The 606 Trail
This elevated path runs above the streets, offering a unique view of neighborhoods and public art installations. You can bike, stroll, or just enjoy the breeze and murals as you go.

Chicago Beaches
In summer, the lake turns into a playground. Build sandcastles, splash at the shoreline, or simply relax with your feet in the water. For families, North Avenue Beach and Montrose Beach are great choices.

Friendly Competition Makes Bonding Fun

Trying something together helps kids feel supported, encouraged, and included.

Mini Golf
A mini golf course makes everyone laugh. The silly obstacles, colorful setups, and little celebrations after making a great shot are pure joy.

Family Sports Moments
If you want to introduce your kids to a new sport or share a hobby, the city offers group tennis classes where families can practice rallies, coordination, and play in a relaxed setting.

Bowling or Bocce Indoors
Places like Pinstripes offer bowling lanes and family-friendly dining. It’s casual, indoors, and easy to enjoy no matter the weather.

End the Day with a Family Meal That Feels Like Home

Eating together in Chicago can be adventurous but comfortable.

• Deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s
  • International flavors at Eataly
  • Handcrafted milkshakes at JoJo’s Shake Bar
  • Lakeside dining at a casual café near Navy Pier

Let the kids pick a spot sometimes; it makes the meal more exciting for them.

Chicago with kids isn’t about rushing from attraction to attraction. It’s about exploring at your family’s pace. Some days might be packed with activities. Others might just be about finding joy in a walk, a laugh, a shared snack, or a new experience. The city is full of moments that bring families closer, whether you’re splashing at the beach, marveling at a museum exhibit, or cheering on a brave little skateboarder.

Take your time. Let the day unfold. Chicago has something waiting around every corner.

Note: This is a collaborative post

Planning a family winter holiday to Alpine ski resorts can be both exciting and challenging. The thrill of skiing with your loved ones is undeniable, but ensuring a smooth journey is crucial for a memorable experience. Efficient travel arrangements set the tone for the trip, helping you avoid unnecessary stress. In this context, Les Carroz Transfers becomes an essential part of planning, facilitating a seamless start to your adventure.

Preparing for your ski destination journey

Embarking on a family ski trip requires thorough preparation to ensure everything runs smoothly. Start by organising your travel documents and packing essentials like winter gear, which should be prioritised to avoid last-minute scrambles. Booking accommodation early helps secure the best locations at competitive prices, offering peace of mind as your departure date approaches. Consider using specialised services to handle transport logistics efficiently, minimising stress from the onset.

Efficient transportation plays a pivotal role in creating a stress-free holiday experience. Opting for pre-arranged transfer services from airports to ski resorts ensures that your family travels together comfortably. This approach eliminates the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with public transport schedules, allowing more time to relax and enjoy the journey. Additionally, choosing flexible booking options helps accommodate any last-minute changes in your travel plans.

Involving all family members in the preparation process can enhance the experience. Assigning responsibilities like overseeing luggage or checking travel itineraries can make children feel involved and excited about the trip. This collaborative effort fosters anticipation and readiness for the fun that awaits at your destination.

Exploring alpine resorts with family activities

Once you arrive at an Alpine resort, a world of family-friendly activities awaits you. Many resorts offer ski schools tailored for children and beginners, ensuring everyone can participate regardless of skill level. Besides skiing, look out for other amenities such as ice skating rinks, snowshoeing trails, and indoor entertainment facilities that cater to diverse interests and age groups.

The convenience of reliable transfer services enhances the overall resort experience by removing logistical concerns from your itinerary. Families can focus on enjoying their time together without worrying about transportation hassles between locations within the resort area. While exploring these services, prioritise those offering real-time tracking features to keep you informed about your journey status at all times.

Consider planning daily schedules that balance activity with relaxation, allowing every family member to recharge after an eventful day. This approach ensures that everyone returns home rejuvenated and satisfied with their holiday experience.

Maximising family fun at ski resorts

To truly maximise family fun during your stay at a ski resort, take advantage of both organised events and self-directed activities available on-site. Participating in group classes or workshops offered by the resort can enhance bonding among family members while providing opportunities to learn new skills together.

An effective way to optimise your travel arrangements is by utilising technology-driven solutions such as mobile apps that facilitate easy access to schedules and bookings. These tools simplify the process of managing itineraries and reservations while keeping all important information readily accessible on-the-go.

Encourage each member of your family to express their preferences regarding activities and dining choices within the resort. Catering to individual interests ensures everyone has something special to look forward to each day, enhancing overall satisfaction with the trip. By blending well-planned logistics with spontaneous adventures, you’ll create cherished memories that will last long after returning home.

Note: This is a collaborative post

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.

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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.

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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.

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